bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Evaluation of Antifungal Agents for the Treatment of Fungal Contamination in Indoor Air Environments
Authors: Rogawansamy Senthaamarai , Gaskin Sharyn , Taylor Michael , Pisaniello Dino
Published: June 2015

Fungal contamination in indoor environments has been associated with adverse health effects for the inhabitants. Remediation of fungal contamination requires removal of the fungi present and modifying the indoor environment to become less favourable to growth. This may include treatment of indoor environments with an antifungal agent to prevent future growth. However there are limited published data or advice on chemical agents suitable for indoor fungal remediation. The aim of this study was to assess the relative efficacies of five commercially available cleaning agents with published or anecdotal use for indoor fungal remediation. The five agents included two common multi-purpose industrial disinfectants (Cavicide® and Virkon®), 70% ethanol, vinegar (4.0%-4.2% acetic acid), and a plant-derived compound (tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) oil) tested in both a liquid and vapour form. Tea tree oil has recently generated interest for its antimicrobial efficacy in clinical settings, but has not been widely employed for fungal remediation. Each antifungal agent was assessed for fungal growth inhibition using a disc diffusion method against a representative species from two common fungal genera, (Aspergillus fumigatus and Penicillium chrysogenum), which were isolated from air samples and are commonly found in indoor air. Tea tree oil demonstrated the greatest inhibitory effect on the growth of both fungi, applied in either a liquid or vapour form. Cavicide® and Virkon® demonstrated similar, although less, growth inhibition of both genera. Vinegar (4.0%–4.2% acetic acid) was found to only inhibit the growth of P. chrysogenum, while 70% ethanol was found to have no inhibitory effect on the growth of either fungi. There was a notable inhibition in sporulation, distinct from growth inhibition after exposure to tea tree oil, Virkon®, Cavicide® and vinegar. Results demonstrate that common cleaning and antifungal agents differ in their capacity to inhibit the growth of fungal genera found in the indoor air environment. The results indicate that tea tree oil was the most effective antifungal agent tested, and may have industrial application for the remediation of fungal contamination in residential and occupational buildings.
An Improved Valuation Model for Technology Companies
Authors: Doffou Ako
Published: June 2015

This paper estimates some of the parameters of the Schwartz and Moon (2001)) model using cross-sectional data. Stochastic costs, future financing, capital expenditures and depreciation are taken into account. Some special conditions are also set: the speed of adjustment parameters are equal; the implied half-life of the sales growth process is linked to analyst forecasts; and the risk-adjustment parameter is inferred from the company’s observed stock price beta. The model is illustrated in the valuation of Google, Amazon, eBay, Facebook and Yahoo. The improved model is far superior to the Schwartz and Moon (2001) model.
Integrating Free and Open Source Solutions into Geospatial Science Education
Authors: Petras Vaclav , Petrasova Anna , Harmon Brendan , Meentemeyer Ross , Mitasova Helena
Published: June 2015

While free and open source software becomes increasingly important in geospatial research and industry, open science perspectives are generally less reflected in universities’ educational programs. We present an example of how free and open source software can be incorporated into geospatial education to promote open and reproducible science. Since 2008 graduate students at North Carolina State University have the opportunity to take a course on geospatial modeling and analysis that is taught with both proprietary and free and open source software. In this course, students perform geospatial tasks simultaneously in the proprietary package ArcGIS and the free and open source package GRASS GIS. By ensuring that students learn to distinguish between geospatial concepts and software specifics, students become more flexible and stronger spatial thinkers when choosing solutions for their independent work in the future. We also discuss ways to continually update and improve our publicly available teaching materials for reuse by teachers, self-learners and other members of the GIS community. Only when free and open source software is fully integrated into geospatial education, we will be able to encourage a culture of openness and, thus, enable greater reproducibility in research and development applications.
Hemipteran Mitochondrial Genomes: Features, Structures and Implications for Phylogeny
Authors: Wang Yuan , Chen Jing , Jiang Li-Yun , Qiao Ge-Xia
Published: June 2015

The study of Hemipteran mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) began with the Chagas disease vector, Triatoma dimidiata, in 2001. At present, 90 complete Hemipteran mitogenomes have been sequenced and annotated. This review examines the history of Hemipteran mitogenomes research and summarizes the main features of them including genome organization, nucleotide composition, protein-coding genes, tRNAs and rRNAs, and non-coding regions. Special attention is given to the comparative analysis of repeat regions. Gene rearrangements are an additional data type for a few families, and most mitogenomes are arranged in the same order to the proposed ancestral insect. We also discuss and provide insights on the phylogenetic analyses of a variety of taxonomic levels. This review is expected to further expand our understanding of research in this field and serve as a valuable reference resource.
Induction of Apoptosis in Endometrial Cancer (Ishikawa) Cells by Pogostemon cablin Aqueous Extract (PCAE)
Authors: Tsai Ching-Chou , Chang Ya-Huei , Chang Chi-Chang , Cheng Ya-Min , Ou Yu-Che , Chien Chan-Chao , Hsu Yi-Chiang
Published: June 2015

Pogostemon cablin (PC) is a traditional herbal medicine used in the treatment of the common cold, nausea, diarrhea, and even for headaches and fever. However, the mechanisms underlying the anti-proliferative activity of PC in endometrial cancer (EC) cells have yet to be fully elucidated. This study investigated the anticancer effects of an aqueous extract of Pogostemon cablin (PCAE), specifically induced apoptosis in EC (Ishikawa) cells. Proliferation of EC cells following exposure to PCAE was assessed by an MTT assay. DNA content and the induction of cell cycle apoptosis were analyzed by flow cytometry (FACS Calibur). Protein caspase-3 and, -9 as well as AIF were investigated using Western blot. Our results demonstrate growth inhibition of Ishikawa cells by PCAE. Furthermore, caspase-3 activity caused PCAE-treated cell lines to accumulate in apoptosis. Gene expression profiling (GEP) results further suggest that, in addition to its known effects with regard to EC prevention, PCAE may also exert antitumor activity on established EC cells. Many previous studies have identified the chemo-preventive effects of natural plant materials and the potential role of these materials in chemotherapy. This current study used human EC Ishikawa cells to investigate the anti-tumor effects of PCAE in EC cells. Our results demonstrate that PCAE inhibits the growth of cancer cells and induces apoptosis, which suggests the potential applicability of PCAE as an antitumor agent.
Colonies of Bumble Bees (Bombus impatiens) Produce Fewer Workers, Less Bee Biomass, and Have Smaller Mother Queens Following Fungicide Exposure
Authors: Bernauer Olivia , Gaines-Day Hannah , Steffan Shawn
Published: June 2015

Bees provide vital pollination services to the majority of flowering plants in both natural and agricultural systems. Unfortunately, both native and managed bee populations are experiencing declines, threatening the persistence of these plants and crops. Agricultural chemicals are one possible culprit contributing to bee declines. Even fungicides, generally considered safe for bees, have been shown to disrupt honey bee development and impair bumble bee behavior. Little is known, however, how fungicides may affect bumble bee colony growth. We conducted a controlled cage study to determine the effects of fungicide exposure on colonies of a native bumble bee species (Bombus impatiens). Colonies of B. impatiens were exposed to flowers treated with field-relevant levels of the fungicide chlorothalonil over the course of one month. Colony success was assessed by the number and biomass of larvae, pupae, and adult bumble bees. Bumble bee colonies exposed to fungicide produced fewer workers, lower total bee biomass, and had lighter mother queens than control colonies. Our results suggest that fungicides negatively affect the colony success of a native bumble bee species and that the use of fungicides during bloom has the potential to severely impact the success of native bumble bee populations foraging in agroecosystems.
Temperature Effects on the Growth Rates and Photosynthetic Activities of Symbiodinium Cells
Authors: Karim Widiastuti , Nakaema Sho , Hidaka Michio
Published: June 2015

Coral bleaching is caused by environmental stress and susceptibility to bleaching stress varies among types of coral. The physiological properties of the algal symbionts (Symbiodinium spp.), especially extent of damage to PSII and its repair capacity, contribute importantly to this variability in stress susceptibility. The objective of the present study was to investigate the relationship between the growth rates and photosynthetic activities of six cultured strains of Symbiodinium spp. (clades A, B, C, D, and F) at elevated temperature (33 °C). We also observed the recovery of photodamaged-PSII in the presence or absence of a chloroplast protein synthesis inhibitor (lincomycin). The growth rates and photochemical efficiencies of PSII (Fv/Fm) decreased in parallel at high temperature in thermally sensitive strains, B-K100 (clade B followed by culture name) and A-Y106, but not in thermally tolerant strains, F-K102 and D-K111. In strains A-KB8 and C-Y103, growth declined markedly at high temperature, but Fv/Fm decreased only slightly. These strains may reallocate energy from growth to the repair of damaged photosynthetic machineries or protection pathways. Alternatively, since recoveries of photo-damaged PSII at 33 °C were modest in strains A-KB8 and C-Y103, thermal stressing of other metabolic pathways may have reduced growth rates in these two strains. This possibility should be explored in future research efforts.
The 1st Law of Thermodynamics for the Mean Energy of a Closed Quantum System in the Aharonov-Vaidman Gauge
Authors: Parks Allen
Published: June 2015

The Aharonov-Vaidman gauge additively transforms the mean energy of a quantum mechanical system into a weak valued system energy. In this paper, the equation of motion of this weak valued energy is used to provide a mathematical statement of an extended 1st Law of Thermodynamics that is applicable to the mean energy of a closed quantum system when the mean energy is expressed in the Aharonov-Vaidman gauge, i.e., when the system’s energy is weak valued. This is achieved by identifying the generalized heat and work exchange terms that appear in the equation of motion for weak valued energy. The complex valued contributions of the additive gauge term to these generalized exchange terms are discussed and this extended 1st Law is shown to subsume the usual 1st Law that is applicable for the mean energy of a closed quantum system. It is found that the gauge transformation introduces an additional energy uncertainty exchange term that—while it is neither a heat nor a work exchange term—is necessary for the conservation of weak valued energy. A spin-1/2 particle in a uniform magnetic field is used to illustrate aspects of the theory. It is demonstrated for this case that the extended 1st Law implies the existence of a gauge potential ω and that it generates a non-vanishing gauge field F. It is also shown for this case that the energy uncertainty exchange accumulated during the evolution of the system along a closed evolutionary cycle C in an associated parameter space is a geometric phase. This phase is equal to both the path integral of ω along C and the integral of the flux of F through the area enclosed by C.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of 2-Picolylamide-Based Diselenides with Non-Bonded Interactions
Authors: Rafique Jamal , Saba Sumbal , Canto Rômulo , Frizon Tiago , Hassan Waseem , Waczuk Emily , Jan Maryam , Back Davi , Da Rocha João , Braga Antonio
Published: June 2015

In this paper, we report the synthesis and biological evaluation of picolylamide-based diselenides with the aim of developing a new series of diselenides with O···Se non-bonded interactions. The synthesis of diselenides was performed by a simple and efficient synthetic route. All the products were obtained in good yields and their structures were determined by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and HRMS. All these new compounds showed promising activities when tested in different antioxidant assays. These amides exhibited strong thiol peroxidase-like (TPx) activity. In fact one of the compounds showed 4.66 times higher potential than the classical standard i.e., diphenyl diselenide. The same compound significantly inhibited iron (Fe)-induced thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) production in rat’s brain homogenate. In addition, the X-ray structure of the most active compound showed non-bonded interaction between the selenium and the oxygen atom that are in close proximity and may be responsible for the increased antioxidant activity. The present study provides evidence about the possible biochemical influence of nonbonding interactions on organochalcogens potency.
Chlorination of (Phebox)Ir(mesityl)(OAc) by Thionyl Chloride
Authors: Zhou Meng , Goldman Alan
Published: June 2015

Pincer (Phebox)Ir(mesityl)(OAc) (2) (Phebox = 3,5-dimethylphenyl-2,6-bis(oxazolinyl)) complex, formed by benzylic C-H activation of mesitylene (1,3,5-trimethylbenzene) using (Phebox)Ir(OAc)2OH2 (1), was treated with thionyl chloride to rapidly form 1-(chloromethyl)-3,5-dimethylbenzene in 50% yield at 23 °C. A green species was obtained at the end of reaction, which decomposed during flash column chromatography to form (Phebox)IrCl2OH2 in 87% yield.
Isolation of an Angiotensin I-Converting Enzyme Inhibitory Protein with Antihypertensive Effect in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats from the Edible Wild Mushroom Leucopaxillus tricolor
Authors: Geng Xueran , Tian Guoting , Zhang Weiwei , Zhao Yongchang , Zhao Liyan , Ryu Mansok , Wang Hexiang , Ng Tzi
Published: June 2015

An 86-kDa homodimeric angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory protein designated as LTP was isolated from fruit bodies of the mushroom Leucopaxillus tricolor. The isolation procedure involved ultrafiltration through a membrane with a molecular weight cutoff of 10-kDa, ion exchange chromatography on Q-Sepharose, and finally fast protein liquid chromatography-gel filtration on Superdex 75. LTP exhibited an IC50 value of 1.64 mg∙mL−1 for its ACE inhibitory activity. The unique N-terminal amino acid sequence of LTP was disclosed by Edman degradation to be DGPTMHRQAVADFKQ. In addition, seven internal sequences of LTP were elucidated by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis. Results of the Lineweaver-Burk plot suggested that LTP competitively inhibited ACE. Both LTP and the water extract of L. tricolor exhibited a clear antihypertensive effect on spontaneously hypertensive rats.
Seasonal Variations of the Relative Optical Air Mass Function for Background Aerosol and Thin Cirrus Clouds at Arctic and Antarctic Sites
Authors: Tomasi Claudio , Petkov Boyan , Mazzola Mauro , Ritter Christoph , Di Sarra Alcide , Di Iorio Tatiana , Del Guasta Massimo
Published: June 2015

New calculations of the relative optical air mass function are made over the 0°–87° range of apparent solar zenith angle θ, for various vertical profiles of background aerosol, diamond dust and thin cirrus cloud particle extinction coefficient in the Arctic and Antarctic atmospheres. The calculations were carried out by following the Tomasi and Petkov (2014) procedure, in which the above-mentioned vertical profiles derived from lidar observations were used as weighting functions. Different sets of lidar measurements were examined, recorded using: (i) the Koldewey-Aerosol-Raman Lidar (KARL) system (AWI, Germany) at Ny-Ålesund (Spitsbergen, Svalbard) in January, April, July and October 2013; (ii) the Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations (CALIPSO) satellite-based sensor over Barrow (Alaska), Eureka (Nunavut, Canada) and Sodankylä (northern Finland), and Neumayer III, Mario Zucchelli and Mirny coastal stations in Antarctica in the local summer months of the last two years; (iii) the National Institute of Optics (INO), National Council of Research (CNR) Antarctic lidar at Dome C on the Antarctic Plateau for a typical “diamond dust” case; and (iv) the KARL lidar at Ny-Ålesund and the University of Rome/National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA) lidar at Thule (northwestern Greenland) for some cirrus cloud layers in the middle and upper troposphere. The relative optical air mass calculations are compared with those obtained by Tomasi and Petkov (2014) to define the seasonal changes produced by aerosol particles, diamond dust and cirrus clouds. The results indicate that the corresponding air mass functions generally decrease as angle θ increases with rates that are proportional to the increase in the pure aerosol, diamond dust and cirrus cloud particle optical thickness.
Inter-Comparison of High-Resolution Satellite Precipitation Products over Central Asia
Authors: Guo Hao , Chen Sheng , Bao Anming , Hu Jujun , Gebregiorgis Abebe , Xue Xianwu , Zhang Xinhua
Published: June 2015

This paper examines the spatial error structures of eight precipitation estimates derived from four different satellite retrieval algorithms including TRMM Multi-satellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA), Climate Prediction Center morphing technique (CMORPH), Global Satellite Mapping of Precipitation (GSMaP) and Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information using Artificial Neural Networks (PERSIANN). All the original satellite and bias-corrected products of each algorithm (3B42RTV7 and 3B42V7, CMORPH_RAW and CMORPH_CRT, GSMaP_MVK and GSMaP_Gauge, PERSIANN_RAW and PERSIANN_CDR) are evaluated against ground-based Asian Precipitation-Highly Resolved Observational Data Integration Towards Evaluation of Water Resources (APHRODITE) over Central Asia for the period of 2004 to 2006. The analyses show that all products except PERSIANN exhibit overestimation over Aral Sea and its surrounding areas. The bias-correction improves the quality of the original satellite TMPA products and GSMaP significantly but slightly in CMORPH and PERSIANN over Central Asia. 3B42RTV7 overestimates precipitation significantly with large Relative Bias (RB) (128.17%) while GSMaP_Gauge shows consistent high correlation coefficient (CC) (>0.8) but RB fluctuates between −57.95% and 112.63%. The PERSIANN_CDR outperforms other products in winter with the highest CC (0.67). Both the satellite-only and gauge adjusted products have particularly poor performance in detecting rainfall events in terms of lower POD (less than 65%), CSI (less than 45%) and relatively high FAR (more than 35%).
Design and Evaluation of Potentiometric Principles for Bladder Volume Monitoring: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Chen Shih-Ching , Hsieh Tsung-Hsun , Fan Wen-Jia , Lai Chien-Hung , Chen Chun-Lung , Wei Wei-Feng , Peng Chih-Wei
Published: June 2015

Recent advances in microelectronics and wireless transmission technology have led to the development of various implantable sensors for real-time monitoring of bladder conditions. Although various sensing approaches for monitoring bladder conditions were reported, most such sensors have remained at the laboratory stage due to the existence of vital drawbacks. In the present study, we explored a new concept for monitoring the bladder capacity on the basis of potentiometric principles. A prototype of a potentiometer module was designed and fabricated and integrated with a commercial wireless transmission module and power unit. A series of in vitro pig bladder experiments was conducted to determine the best design parameters for implementing the prototype potentiometric device and to prove its feasibility. We successfully implemented the potentiometric module in a pig bladder model in vitro, and the error of the accuracy of bladder volume detection was <±3%. Although the proposed potentiometric device was built using a commercial wireless module, the design principles and animal experience gathered from this research can serve as a basis for developing new implantable bladder sensors in the future.
Supplemental Blue LED Lighting Array to Improve the Signal Quality in Hyperspectral Imaging of Plants
Authors: Mahlein Anne-Katrin , Hammersley Simon , Oerke Erich-Christian , Dehne Heinz-Wilhelm , Goldbach Heiner , Grieve Bruce
Published: June 2015

Hyperspectral imaging systems used in plant science or agriculture often have suboptimal signal-to-noise ratio in the blue region (400–500 nm) of the electromagnetic spectrum. Typically there are two principal reasons for this effect, the low sensitivity of the imaging sensor and the low amount of light available from the illuminating source. In plant science, the blue region contains relevant information about the physiology and the health status of a plant. We report on the improvement in sensitivity of a hyperspectral imaging system in the blue region of the spectrum by using supplemental illumination provided by an array of high brightness light emitting diodes (LEDs) with an emission peak at 470 nm.
Novel Method of Detecting Movement of the Interference Fringes Using One-Dimensional PSD
Authors: Wang Qi , Xia Ji , Liu Xu , Zhao Yong
Published: June 2015

In this paper, a method of using a one-dimensional position-sensitive detector (PSD) by replacing charge-coupled device (CCD) to measure the movement of the interference fringes is presented first, and its feasibility is demonstrated through an experimental setup based on the principle of centroid detection. Firstly, the centroid position of the interference fringes in a fiber Mach-Zehnder (M-Z) interferometer is solved in theory, showing it has a higher resolution and sensitivity. According to the physical characteristics and principles of PSD, a simulation of the interference fringe’s phase difference in fiber M-Z interferometers and PSD output is carried out. Comparing the simulation results with the relationship between phase differences and centroid positions in fiber M-Z interferometers, the conclusion that the output of interference fringes by PSD is still the centroid position is obtained. Based on massive measurements, the best resolution of the system is achieved with 5.15, 625 μm. Finally, the detection system is evaluated through setup error analysis and an ultra-narrow-band filter structure. The filter structure is configured with a one-dimensional photonic crystal containing positive and negative refraction material, which can eliminate background light in the PSD detection experiment. This detection system has a simple structure, good stability, high precision and easily performs remote measurements, which makes it potentially useful in material small deformation tests, refractivity measurements of optical media and optical wave front detection.
Les géographes et la révolution de l'audiovisuel. Comment ouvrir une place à la géographie dans une société de l'image ? (Geographers and audio-visual revolution)
Authors: Faugères Lucien
Published: June 2015

Abstract. - The working group «Geography and audio-visuals», a group of the french National Committee of Geography, has been founded in 1979. The first members of the group were some geographers who had been previously involved in various individual audio-visual attempts, and tried to improve as much as possible audio-visual aids in their research, their teaching and, more generally, in their communication with the public. They were equally concerned with human and physical geography. One of the first concretization of the group activities has been the realization of « Des géographes. ..», a multi-sided 16 mm film, the aim of which was to present several geographers at work and introduce a large public to quite fresh and more traditional ways to do geography.
Life experience as catalyst for cross-disciplinary communication (Utilisation d'interviews vidéo de géographes dans le cadre d'un projet de communication pluri-disciplinaire)
Authors: Buttimer Anne
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - Un dialogue international a été amorcé en 1977-78 par Anne BUTTIMER (Université Clark, Worcester, U.S.A.), et Torsten HAGERSTRAND (Université de Lund, Suède), pour explorer les possibilités de développer la communication entre spécialistes des sciences humaines. La méthode utilisée a été la réalisation en vidéo d'interviews de chercheurs titulaires ou retraités, à qui il était demandé de tenter un bilan des expériences de toute leur vie professionnelle. Les enregistrements ont été visionnés par des groupes d'étudiants qui ont ensuite engagé un véritable échange avec les chercheurs. A ce jour une centaine d'enregistrements ont été réalisés, qui représentent aussi une contribution importante pour les archives de la géographie. La plupart concernent des géographes anglo-saxons, et un seul français, J. Beaujeu-Garnier. Une proposition est faite pour ouvrir une coopération plus étroite dans les années à venir avec la géographie française.
Présentation du vidéogramme Entre la terre et l'eau : la baie de Bourgneuf (Presentation of a research videotape)
Authors: Corlay Jean-Pierre
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - La réalisation d'un document vidéo (format 3/4) a été retenue par une équipe pluridisciplinaire travaillant sur les projets d'aménagement de la Baie de Bourgneuf, pour faire connaître la méthodologie et les résultats de sa recherche. Sont évoqués les réflexions théoriques et les choix préalables à la réalisation, ainsi que les problèmes de public, de communication entre chercheurs et techniciens. Le document est actuellement diffusé en format 3/4 et VHS.
Terminal lipophilization of a unique DNA dodecamer by various nucleolipid headgroups: Their incorporation into artificial lipid bilayers and hydrodynamic properties
Authors: Werz Emma , Rosemeyer Helmut
Published: June 2015

A series of six cyanine-5-labeled oligonucleotides (LONs 10–15), each terminally lipophilized with different nucleolipid head groups, were synthesized using the recently prepared phosphoramidites 4b–9b. The insertion of the LONs within an artificial lipid bilayer, composed of 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC) and 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (POPE), was studied by single molecule fluorescence spectroscopy and microscopy with the help of an optically transparent microfluidic sample carrier with perfusion capabilities. The incorporation of the lipo-oligonucleotides into the bilayer was studied with respect to efficiency (maximal bilayer brightness) as well as stability against perfusion (final stable bilayer brightness). Attempts to correlate these parameters with the log P values of the corresponding nucleolipid head groups failed, a result which clearly demonstrates that not only the lipophilicity but mainly the chemical structure and topology of the head group is of decisive importance for the optimal interaction of a lipo-oligonucleotide with an artificial lipid bilayer. Moreover, fluorescence half-live and diffusion time values were measured to determine the diffusion coefficients of the lipo-oligonucleotides.
GRAPPA Fellows Symposium Adjacent to the Swiss Psoriasis Day, Geneva, 2014: A Meeting Report
Authors: Boehncke Wolf-Henning , Bachelez Hervé , Paul Carle F. , Helliwell Philip S.
Published: June 2015

Having organized 2 highly successful Fellows symposia in 2012 and 2013, the Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis (GRAPPA) was able to continue this series of symposia adjacent to the Swiss Psoriasis Day in Geneva on October 31, 2014. Hervé Bachelez from Paris, Wolf-Henning Boehncke from Geneva, Carle Paul from Toulouse, and Philip S. Helliwell from Leeds formed the faculty. The 8 best-ranked abstracts submitted to this symposium were presented and discussed in detail. Summaries of all abstracts presented are described.
Building Bridges between Researchers and Patient Research Partners: A Report from the GRAPPA 2014 Annual Meeting
Authors: de Wit Maarten , Campbell Willemina , Orbai Ana-Maria , Tillett William , FitzGerald Oliver , Gladman Dafna D. , Lindsay Chris A. , McHugh Neil J. , Mease Philip J. , O’Sullivan Denis , Steinkoenig Ingrid , Windisch Glenn , Goel Niti
Published: June 2015

Concurring with a worldwide trend to include the patient perspective in outcomes research, the Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis (GRAPPA) recently engaged patients as collaborative partners in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) research. We summarize Building Bridges, a session held at the GRAPPA 2014 annual meeting, where interactive dialogue was encouraged between all participants regarding GRAPPA’s vision for patient research partner (PRP) involvement, including the mutual understanding of the roles and responsibilities of PRP and researchers in GRAPPA’s working groups, meetings, and governance arrangements. We conclude that involving PRP in GRAPPA projects is pivotal to optimizing incorporation of the patient perspective in psoriasis and PsA research.
Utility in Clinical Trials of Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Psoriatic Arthritis: A Report from the GRAPPA 2014 Annual Meeting
Authors: Østergaard Mikkel , Glinatsi Daniel , Pedersen Susanne Juhl , Sørensen Inge Juul
Published: June 2015

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a heterogeneous disease that involves both peripheral and axial joints and entheses. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows visualization of the inflammatory components (synovitis, tenosynovitis, enthesitis, periarticular inflammation, and bone marrow edema) as well as structural damage (bone erosion, bone proliferation) in PsA. However, MRI has not been validated as an outcome measure in PsA clinical trials to the same extent as in rheumatoid arthritis. Recently, further validation of the Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) PsA MRI score (PsAMRIS) was presented at the 2014 annual meeting of the Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriatic Arthritis (GRAPPA). In this review, we present the current knowledge within MRI assessment of PsA, particularly peripheral manifestations, as well as different imaging methods and scoring systems, and we discuss future research perspectives.
Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Educational Initiatives: An Update from the 2014 GRAPPA Annual Meeting
Authors: Callis Duffin Kristina , Mease Philip J.
Published: June 2015

At the 2014 annual meeting of the Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis (GRAPPA), members were updated on Internet-based and continuing education programs in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). The psoriasis and PsA GRAPPA video project, started in 2010, now comprises a set of 15 online videos that provide standardized psoriatic disease endpoint training and proficiency testing for clinicians and researchers. The GRAPPA Global Education Project, started in 2012, comprises several continuing medical education (CME) and non-CME initiatives to educate dermatologists, rheumatologists, and trainees about PsA and psoriasis.
Modelling price scenarios for sustainable collective action and farm production: pepper in El Roble settlement, Costa Rica
Authors: Sáenz-Segura F. , Schipper R.A. , Miranda D. , Chaves J.M.
Published: June 2015

Pepper (Piper nigrum L.) is considered a non-traditional cash crop for enhancing local development in Costa Rica and a suitable activity for small farmers. Trade of pepper has been done by using contractual agreements between producers and processors, which provides at least three functions: insurance, incentives and information. Contracts also require a high level of commitment from contracting parties to keep the equity, efficiency, and sustainability of the trade relationship. The shift of trade conditions from a competitive to a monopsony market encouraged a group of farmers to start an association that aims to bulk and process pepper from members. Breaching contracts by members of the association endanger this effort of sustainable entrepreneurship. This usually happens when temporary market conditions yield higher procurement prices by other competitors. This situation is also worsened by the lack of proper information on production and processing costs between the contracting parties, and then, the disagreement on the procurement price fixation and payment conditions. By using a mixed integer linear optimization model, we aim to identify the ‘best’ price of fresh pepper traded between both parties. We make use of primary information from 12 different farms on production costs and from the association on processing costs. The model incorporates minimum required net margins for all contracting parties, while modelling the net margins of each party, the amount of traded fresh pepper and preferred contract possibilities, given different fresh pepper price scenarios. At lower prices, some of the farmers that supply pepper, do this to just break-even. At higher prices, more is supplied by more farmers. Under monopsony conditions and individual contracts between parties, it is in the interest of the buyer to offer higher fresh pepper prices in order to buy and process more pepper, up to the point that the marginal costs of buying more pepper are equal to the marginal benefits of that extra pepper. This is because the processor has fixed costs, next to variable costs. Higher volumes reduce the average total costs of processing per kg of pepper, and thereby increase profit. When group contracts are possible, thus under bilateral monopoly conditions – farmers acting as ‘one’ seller and the processor as the only buyer – more fresh pepper is supplied at higher prices than under monopsony conditions as more farmers would have higher surpluses. At the same time the processor would have a higher profit than using individual contracts.
La Paz de Utrecht y su impacto en el mundo atlántico. Una aproximación a partir del caso del Río de la Plata
Authors: González Mezquita María Luz
Published: June 2015

A comienzos del siglo XVIII la guerra de Sucesión española (1700-1715) constituye un conflicto de central importancia y la firma de los tratados de Utrecht, que le ponen fin, tiene consecuencias de alcance internacional. En este trabajo se aborda un aspecto que ha sido escasamente estudiado: el impacto del proceso bélico y las consecuencias de los tratados que le pusieron fin en la región del Río de la Plata
La República Holandesa y su posición en el contexto colonial americano después de 1713
Authors: Crespo Solana Ana , Klooster Wim
Published: June 2015

Durante la guerra de Sucesión española, la República Holandesa luchó junto al bloque aliado austracista contra la opción borbónica. Sin embargo, y a pesar de su alianza con Inglaterra, la República Holandesa no salió bien restablecida de los tratados de Utrecht. En este artículo se analizarán las consecuencias que estos tratados tuvieron para la expansión comercial y colonial de Holanda en el Atlántico.
Francisco López de Gómara y la Orden de Alcántara
Authors: Martínez Martínez María del Carmen
Published: June 2015

Este artículo da a conocer aspectos inéditos de la biografía de Francisco López de Gómara. Su solicitud de un hábito de religioso de la Orden de Alcántara y la consiguiente información permite aclarar su filiación, su grado de bachiller y los estudios realizados durante su estancia en Bolonia. Entre los testigos están su maestro Pedro de Rúa, antiguos compañeros del Colegio de San Clemente y algunos vecinos de la villa de Gómara.
Las controversias sobre el matrimonio de los miembros de la audiencia de Manila y sus familiares (1583-1624). La boda del oidor viudo Madrid y Luna
Authors: Manchado López Marta M.ª
Published: June 2015

En este trabajo se estudian las controversias suscitadas en el seno de la audiencia de Manila a causa del matrimonio del oidor viudo Manuel de Madrid y Luna, durante el proceso de formación de la sociedad española en Filipinas. También se analizan las complejas y cambiantes relaciones entre los miembros de dicho tribunal. El periodo estudiado comprende desde 1583 (fundación de la primera audiencia) a 1624 (renovación completa de sus miembros).
Nuevas fuentes para el estudio de la erupción del volcán de Taal en 1754
Authors: Del Barrio Muñoz José Ángel
Published: June 2015

El presente trabajo pretende profundizar en el estudio de las consecuencias de los desastres naturales en el pasado. En este caso, aportamos nuevas fuentes del siglo XVIII, tanto escritas como gráficas, que nos permiten evaluar mejor los acontecimientos acaecidos en la laguna de Taal en 1754, contrastándolas con otras fuentes de información reunidas hasta ahora.
Sodomía y masculinidad en la ciudad de México (1821-1870)
Authors: Palafox Menegazzi Alejandra
Published: June 2015

El artículo indaga en las construcciones socio-culturales que operaron dentro del dispositivo de control de la sexualidad en la capital mexicana, a través del análisis discursivo de expedientes judiciales relativos a casos de sodomía. Se exploran mecanismos de reproducción de las categorías dicotómicas de género, dentro de un sistema de dominación que, a lo largo del siglo XIX, sujetó tanto a hombres como a mujeres a través de una masculinidad prescriptiva.
The Corporatisation of Global Anglicanism
Authors: Bremner G. A.
Published: June 2015

This article explores the corporate nature of missionary Anglicanism and its architectural consequences in Britain’s empire during the nineteenth century. It is argued that in highlighting the incorporated status of ecclesiastical organisations such as the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts and the Colonial Bishoprics’ Fund we are able to reach a better understanding of not just how the objectives of these organisations mapped onto their operations “in the field” but also how the form of the accompanying ecclesiastical architecture was affected by their agenda. It is suggested that the influence and authority of these organisations, through their patronage, gave distinct shape to much of the Anglican missionary enterprise during this period, leading to a form of architecture that was in many respects a direct expression of the ideals and practices of the English Church as a constitutionally incorporated entity. This was therefore an architecture that can be seen to have both embodied and represented a certain “corporate identity.”
L’informatique dans l’enseignement général : plus de 40 ans de présence active de l’EPI
Authors: Baudé Jacques
Published: June 2015

L’objectif de cet article est de montrer, à travers un bref historique* des actions de l’EPI, que la nécessité d’une approche diversifiée de l’informatique dans l’enseignement a été proposée dès le séminaire de Sèvres en 1970 : apport de l’informatique aux différentes disciplines, enseignement de l’informatique… Cette prise de conscience, notamment par plusieurs responsables successifs du ministère de l’Éducation nationale, a traversé, avec des hauts et des bas, les quatre décennies qui viennent de s’écouler.Faute de place, je limiterai mon propos aux enseignements généraux en lycée, laissant à d’autres le soin de traiter de l’école élémentaire, du collège, des enseignements technologiques et professionnels, et des enseignements post-baccalauréat.* Pour un historique plus complet voir note n°3.
Standards ouverts et implémentations FLOSS : vers un nouveau modèle synergique de standardisation promu par l’industrie du logiciel
Authors: Adatto Laurent
Published: June 2015

Les phénomènes de standardisation ont façonné l’évolution d’une industrie du logiciel structurellement sensible aux rendements croissants d’adoption et à leur effet d’autorenforcement. Or, dans un contexte où cette industrie est toujours plus marquée par l’importance des structures résiliaires (techniques, économiques et organisationnelles), et donc par la nécessité de disposer de dispositifs interopérables, nous allons montrer les avantages et dynamiques d’un nouveau modèle synergique de standardisation, de plus en plus spontanément promu par l’industrie, et liant élaboration coopérative de spécifications en tant que standards ouverts et possibilité de mise en œuvre FLOSS (Free Libre Open Source Software).
« Je suis peut-être un pirate, mais je ne me sens pas du tout délinquant ! »
Authors: Roudaut Karine
Published: June 2015

Karine Roudaut explique, dans cette note de recherche, le paradoxe de la pratique du téléchargement illégal, sanctionnée par la loi, mais non déviante au sens sociologique du terme, en utilisant une démarche sociologique reposant sur des entretiens avec des utilisateurs, parfois « pirates ».
Pratiques des outils numériques et relations sociales
Authors: Beauchamps Margot , Jullien Nicolas
Published: June 2015

Le dossier de ce numéro est consacré à une sélection des travaux présentés au séminaire M@rsouin en 2013 sur le thème « Pratiques  des outils numériques et  relations sociales »
AFCDP : 8e Université des correspondants Informatique & Libertés (CIL)
Authors: Dagrain Valérie
Published: June 2015

Compte-rendu de la 8e rencontre des CIL (Correspondants Informatique et Libertés)
(Hi)story telling : vers un nouveau partage du sensible
Authors: Lesson Benjamin
Published: June 2015

Cet article qui permet de repositionner les termes trans/cross/inter médias dans une perspective socio-historique. Grâce à une description minutieuse d'un dispositif transmédia, celui du film Tron Legacy, et d'un dispositif intermédia, celui de Invisible shape of things past, il revient sur la figure du flâneur et se place ainsi dans une approche théorique entre étude de réception et étude épistémologique.
TIC pour l’intégration des sourds par la langue des signes
Authors: Dalle Patrice
Published: June 2015

Les sourds ne seront réellement intégrés dans la société majoritairement entendante que lorsque la langue des signes sera effectivement prise en compte. Dans la communication, cela implique des dispositifs d’interprétation. Les TIC interviennent pour médiatiser l’interprétation à distance ou, à terme, pour automatiser certaines tâches de traduction. Dans la formation, l’information et la culture, les contenus et leurs modalités d’accès doivent être aussi en langue des signes française (LSF). Les TIC permettent de produire, de diffuser et d’exploiter des documents en LSF en dotant la vidéo en LSF de tous les outils de l’édition numérique. Cela contribue à la formation des sourds, élément essentiel de leur intégration, mais aussi à la formation de professionnels compétents en LSF (interprètes, enseignants) et donc à l’usage de cette langue. Elles permettent enfin de travailler et notamment d’enseigner en LSF. En offrant aux sourds d’accéder aux savoirs, d’obtenir des diplômes, puis d’exercer des métiers correspondant à leur qualification, elles sont un facteur essentiel de leur intégration sociale et professionnelle et de leur bien-être.
Experimental Verification of Precast Dapped-End Beams
Authors: Hasa Michal , Zich Miloš
Published: June 2015

This article deals with the issues of designing the detail of the dapped-end beam, the design of which in practice usually employs the design method based on the strut-and-tie method. The most usual method for its reinforcing is described herein, including the selected suggestions that are mentioned in the literature. The article also presents the experiment carried out to verify the design method. A study shows the influence of the used amount of vertical and inclined hanger reinforcement on the bearing capacity and behaviour of the detail under load. The results show fairly good correspondence between the bearing capacity as determined by calculation and by the experiment. They also point out to the adequacy of using the inclined hanger reinforcement in relation to formation, development and final width of the cracks.
Concrete Precast Panel for Noise Barrier of New Generation
Authors: Vacek Vítězslav , Kolisko Jiří , Tichý Jan , Cvancigerová Renata
Published: June 2015

Subject of the article is development of reinforced sound-deadening panel of new generation for protection of the environment against noise coming from operation on linear transport buildings. These reinforced sound-deadening panels are made from cavern concrete, reinforced with concrete steel reinforcement protected with special anti-corrosion coating. Prototype of the panel was tested according to valid standards from the aspect of acoustic parameters, material characteristics of used concrete and mechanical parameters of the panel.
Theoretical and Experimental Research of a Frame Structure with Articulated Joints
Authors: Witzany Jiří , Makovička Daniel , Zigler Radek , Čejka Tomáš , Urushadze Shota , Polák Aleš
Published: June 2015

Research within the TACR TA02010837 project “A Multi-Purpose Demountable Prefabricated Reinforced Concrete Building System with Controlled Properties of Joints and Potential Repetitive Use” included the design of a prefabricated column system with articulated joints of columns and cross bars and diaphragms elastically embedded in some spans; this system allows the modification of static and dynamic characteristics – stiffness and the load-bearing system’s response to external static and dynamic loading effects and impacts. The article presents partial results of a theoretical and experimental analysis of the behaviour of a frame span with a diaphragm discretely connected by means of rubber bearings and cross bars.
Field Testing of Concrete Members Subjected to Contact and Adjacent Blast
Authors: Hajek Radek , Kovar Martin , Foglar Marek , Pachman Jiri , Štoller Jiří
Published: June 2015

This paper follows the line of contributions from earlier conferences and informs about more results of experimental program focused on the resistance of plain and fibre reinforced concrete elements against adjacent and contact blast. Concurrently, a detailed analysis of element response is carried out using ultra high speed cameras.
Analysis of Secondary Effects and Bond Behavior due Prestressing
Authors: Laco Ján , Pažma Peter , Halvonik Jaroslav
Published: June 2015

Subject of this article is an introduction of experimental research realized by department of a concrete structures and bridges at Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava. This research was focused on analysis of secondary effects due prestressing by changing statically indeterminate system to a kinematical mechanism. Other part of this research was observing of bond behaviour of a strands coated with corrosion protection agents.
Bridge over Canal Laranjeiras, Laguna, Brazil
Authors: Novák Richard , Strasky Jiří , Kocourek Petr , Šopík Leonard
Published: June 2015

On the south of Brazil the main Brazilian highway pass around the town Laguna only on a dual lane carriage way. There are regular traffic congestions with several hours of delay. The federal government invests a lot of money to increase the capacity of the main highway. The bridge over Canal Laranjeiras takes part of these improvements. It has a total length of 2 800m and overpasses two times the railway, the Laguna bay to Imauri and future navigation channel Laranjeiras. Its main part consists of 400m length of cable-stayed bridge with two pylons a 200m main span. The pylons are 76m height and are formed by box section. The cable-stayed part is situated in plan curvature and the main plane of longitudinal stays is supplemented by two planes of transversal stays for each pylon. The paper deals with conceptual design of the bridge and construction methodology.