bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La guerre des codes
Authors: Cambot Stany
Published: May 2015

Dans la carte des conflits numériques – logiciel libre, open source, théorie de la propriété –Échelle Inconnue relate son expérience de bataille pour le QR-code (encodeur et décodeur libre en ligne, donc gratuit et réalisable par tous) contre le système de « Flash code » payant, érigé comme standard national, commercialisé par Orange. Ce récit, victorieux dans la ville de Rouen, a amené une vingtaine de collectivités territoriales à préférer utiliser le site d’Échelle Inconnue pour élaborer leur code, amenant Orange à abandonner ses rêves de code fermé et payant.
L’usage de la vie
Authors: Virno Paolo , Weber Jean-Christophe
Published: May 2015

Nous faisons usage de machines, de chaussures, de cartes, en vue de notre vie, de sa conservation et de son développement. Mais c’est la vie elle-même qui est avant tout « usable », et pour laquelle machines, chaussures, cartes sont utilisées. L’ usage de soi , de son existence, est le présupposé et la poutre maîtresse de tous les autres usages. Or l’usage de soi se fonde sur le détachement de soi. Est utilisée une existence à laquelle on ne peut pas toujours s’identifier, qui ne se possède pas entièrement et qui, sans être vraiment étrangère, n’est pas non plus complètement familière. Autrement dit, l’usage de la vie concerne l’espèce qui, en plus de vivre, doit rendre sa vie possible. Le jeu de scène théâtral récapitule et amplifie les procédés par lesquels l’être humain se sert de son existence. L’activité de l’acteur est un modèle incomparable de l’usage de la vie et du souci de soi. Pour reconstituer avec précision les « technologies du soi », il convient de regarder de près les écrits de Stanislavski, Mejerchol’d, Brecht et Grotowski.
Sexo-robots et société
Authors: Bisson Frédéric
Published: May 2015

Cette nouvelle d’anticipation fantaisiste imagine un futur proche où notre vie quotidienne serait peuplée de robots anthropomorphes entièrement dédiés à l’usage sexuel. Elle spécule sur la manière dont ces robots pourraient peu à peu transformer en profondeur les relations sociales et conditionner l’avènement d’une humanité « post-biologique ». La place des sexo-robots dans la vie quotidienne divise les féministes. Elle révèle des lignes de fracture idéologiques entre le vieil humanisme et une nouvelle métaphysique plus généreuse du rapport homme-machine.
La Nouvelle Évangélisation
Authors: Rigal Jean
Published: May 2015

L’expression « Nouvelle Évangélisation », employée pour la première fois par Jean-Paul II en 1983, recouvre, en fait, des réalités aussi différentes que dispersées : ce qui n’en rend pas l’analyse facile. Ces pages tentent d’en faire une relecture rapide et de relever quelques critères de discernement. Au-delà d’un simple descriptif, relativement connu, sur l’essor de ce courant religieux, l’article se propose de mettre en relief les principales composantes de cet élan missionnaire et d’indiquer les points d’appui sociologiques et ecclésiaux qui lui permettent de se développer. La dernière partie de cette présentation rassemble les principales questions que pose, selon l’auteur, l’émergence de ce courant religieux. Il ne s’agit ni d’approuver ni de condamner mais plutôt de comprendre cette nouvelle approche évangélique et d’en discerner les enjeux pour la vie de l’Église et le service de l’Évangile.
Mode relationnel, addictions et précarité sociale
Authors: Fierdepied Sophie , Sturm Gesine , Baubet Thierry
Published: May 2015

Cet article est issu d’une recherche qualitative en psychologie qui interroge le lien entre vécu de précarité, traumas et fonctionnement limite. Nous avons conçu des entretiens de recherche en nous inspirant de l’Operationalized Psychodynamic Diagnosis (OPD-2), outil d’évaluation et de diagnostic multimodèle et multiaxial. Nous nous sommes appuyée sur la grounded theory pour le traitement des données et sur la méthode complémentariste de G. Devereux pour l’analyse. Les données, issues de 20 entretiens réalisés auprès de 10 sujets, ont mis en évidence un mode relationnel empreint de méfiance où la question de l’attachement est problématique. Il nous a permis de mieux saisir les différentes fonctions que remplissent les conduites addictives, rencontrées chez les sujets. Elles relèvent d’une mise à distance relationnelle protectrice, d’une substitution à autrui dont le manque est malgré tout ressenti. Elles interviennent également comme une tentative de subjectivation, d’appropriation d’une identité de recouvrement. Enfin, elles servent de soutien au Moi-Peau (Anzieu, 1985) fragilisé par des traumas ou des bouleversements traversés précocement.
L’accroissement de la durée des conventions collectives de travail québécoises depuis 20 ans : nouvelle normalité, partenariat consolidé ou manifestation du pouvoir patronal ?
Authors: Laroche Mélanie , Jalette Patrice , Lauzon Duguay Frédéric
Published: May 2015

En quoi la durée des conventions collectives de travail est-elle liée à leur contenu ? En se basant sur le cas du secteur privé québécois qui a vu la durée des conventions s’accroître depuis 1994, cette recherche traite des intérêts patronaux et syndicaux liés à cet enjeu dans un système de relations industrielles décentralisé. L’analyse de près de 5 300 conventions collectives met à l’épreuve trois thèses susceptibles d’expliquer cette évolution : 1) elle reflète une nouvelle normalité découlant de la volonté des parties de disposer de périodes de stabilité plus longues pour faire face à la mondialisation ; 2) elle s’accompagne de nouveaux objets de négociation de nature partenariale négociés localement et 3) elle constitue un nouveau levier de pouvoir patronal pour faire pression sur les conditions de travail des salariés. Les résultats montrent que la convention de plus longue durée s’est largement imposée comme la nouvelle « norme », mais que le rapport de force favorable aux employeurs paraît expliquer le caractère défavorable pour les travailleurs et les syndicats des conventions les plus longues.
Biomechanical Properties of Labral Repair: Simple Versus Vertical Suture Pattern
Authors: Hanna Jason , Esquivel Amanda O. , Lemos David , Pandhi Nikhil G. , Staron Jeffrey S. , Lemos Stephen E.
Published: May 2015

The goal of this study was to evaluate contact area and surface pressure as a result of different suture patterns in the treatment of anterior shoulder instability caused by a Bankart lesion. Loads were applied through the humeral head to the glenoid surface in the intact shoulder and after simple suture labral repair (n=10) and vertical mattress labral repair (n=9). Peak contact pressure, mean contact pressure, and contact area were recorded for 0°, 45°, and 90° shoulder abduction, and then the repair was loaded to failure. A significant increase (
P
<.05) in mean contact pressure and peak contact pressure occurred in both repair groups at 90° abduction. No difference was seen between the 2 repair groups. Total contact area significantly decreased after both repairs at 90° abduction at 220 N force (
P
<.05). No significant difference occurred in load to failure between the groups. Joint loading properties can be affected by alterations in contact pressure within the glenohumeral joint. In the current study, the authors found no significant difference in contact pressure between the 2 repair groups. However, they found a significant increase in mean contact pressure and peak pressure between the intact specimen and the 2 repair groups. Both simple repair and vertical mattress repair provided similar load to failure for labral repair. Current techniques used to perform Bankart repair may need to be altered to provide the stability of current techniques with more normal glenohumeral joint contact pressure. [
Orthopedics
. 2015; 38(2):81–86.]
Morphologic Study of Posterior Articular Depression in Schatzker IV Fractures
Authors: Zhai Qilin , Hu Chengfang , Xu Yafeng , Wang Dan , Luo Congfeng
Published: May 2015

The Schatzker classification of tibial plateau fractures is widely accepted. Type IV fractures are medial tibial plateau fractures that are either split off as a wedge fragment or depressed and comminuted. Posterior articular surface depression in Schatzker type IV tibial plateau fractures can be seen as a unique variant that increases the difficulty of reduction of the articular surface. Its morphologic characteristics have not been fully studied, and the incidence is sometimes underestimated. The goal of this study was to evaluate the morphologic characteristics of posterior articular depression in Schatzker type IV fractures based on computed tomography measurements. From January 2009 to December 2011, the medical records, including digital radiologic data, of all patients treated for tibial plateau fracture at the authors’ institution were retrospectively analyzed. Articular surface depression deeper than 5 mm was the criterion for study inclusion. The depression depth, precise location of the articular depression center, surface area percentage, and distance of the fracture gap to the depression center were calculated. One hundred fifteen cases of Schatzker type IV fracture were retrieved, and a total of 47.83% (55 of 115) cases had posterior articular surface depression. The average depth of the depressed articular surface was 12.41 mm, the surface area percentage was 20.15% of the entire tibial plateau, and the gap distance from the medial direction was 41.40 mm, 2.8 times longer than that from the posterior direction, which was 14.91 mm. Posterior articular surface depression occurs in nearly half of Schatzker type IV fractures, and the posterior approach provides more direct access to the depression than the medial approach. [
Orthopedics
. 2015; 38(2):e124–e128.]
Outcomes of Operative Versus Nonoperative Treatment of Displaced Pediatric Clavicle Fractures
Authors: Hagstrom Lindsey S. , Ferrick Michael , Galpin Robert
Published: May 2015

Current literature proposes relative and absolute indications for surgical treatment of clavicle fractures in adults. However, few studies have evaluated these fractures in children. The current study examined short- and long-term outcomes of pediatric patients with displaced clavicle fractures. Outcomes assessed included radiographic healing, full active range of motion, and return to activity. The authors’ hypothesis was that open reduction and internal fixation of displaced clavicle fractures would lead to better outcomes than nonoperative treatment. The authors retrospectively reviewed the charts of pediatric patients treated for clavicle fractures between January 2001 and October 2011. The nonoperative group included 32 patients, and the operative group included 46 patients. Mean time to return to activity was 12.24 weeks in the nonoperative group and 12.70 weeks in the operative group (
P
=.67). Mean time to full active range of motion was 7.85 weeks in the nonoperative group and 8.74 weeks in the operative group (
P
=.24). Mean time to radiographic evidence of healing was 12.02 weeks in the nonoperative group and 11.90 weeks in the operative group (
P
=.90). Average Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score was 0.04 in the nonoperative group (range, 0–0.08) and 1.17 in the operative group (range, 0–8.3), with no significant difference between groups. No significant difference between operative treatment and nonoperative treatment was found in any of the authors’ outcome measures. Thus, the authors propose that unless the patient’s injury is an absolute indication for surgery, conservative management provides equivalent immediate and long-term clinical results. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(2):e135–e138.]
Effects of Gill-Net Trauma, Barotrauma, and Deep Release on Postrelease Mortality of Lake Trout
Authors: Ng Elizabeth L. , Fredericks Jim P. , Quist Michael C.
Published: May 2015

Unaccounted postrelease mortality violates assumptions of many fisheries studies, thereby biasing parameter estimates and reducing efficiency. We evaluated effects of gill-net trauma, barotrauma, and deep-release treatment on postrelease mortality of lake trout Salvelinus namaycush. Lake trout were captured at depths up to 65 m with gill nets in Priest Lake, Idaho, and held in a large enclosure for 10–12 d. Postrelease mortality was the same for surface-release–and deep-release–treated fish (41%). Mixed-effects logistic regression models were used to evaluate effects of intrinsic and environmental factors on the probability of mortality. Presence of gill-net trauma and degree of barotrauma were associated with increased probability of postrelease mortality. Smaller fish were also more likely to suffer postrelease mortality. On average, deep-release treatment did not reduce postrelease mortality, but effectiveness of treatment increased with fish length. Of the environmental factors evaluated, only elapsed time between lifting the first and last anchors of a gill-net gang (i.e., lift time) was significantly related to postrelease mortality. Longer lift times, which may allow ascending lake trout to acclimate to depressurization, were associated with lower postrelease mortality rates. Our study suggests that postrelease mortality may be higher than previously assumed for lake trout because mortality continues after 48 h. In future studies, postrelease mortality could be reduced by increasing gill-net lift times and increasing mesh size used to increase length of fish captured.
Interfering in Hinterlands of Discontent
Authors: Haxell Ailsa
Published: May 2015

Given youth work is frequently entered into with the intention of making a difference in young people's lives, this article has been undertaken with the intention of making a difference differently. Drawing on actor-network theory, and the concept of hinterlands, influences shaping the practice of text counselling at a youth oriented helpline are discussed. This is however a contested space. There is no evidence base for such practice; but for new practices there never is. How then does novel practice come into being and become accepted? And how does this occur for people whose ways of engaging involves being neither seen nor heard? In presenting stories of practice as it is shaped there is opportunity to consider whose stories are heard and perhaps whose should be. In uncovering relations that would hold this particular practice more and less stable, scope is also provided for considering how making a difference might also be done differently.
Do-It-Our-Way or Do-It-Yourself?
Authors: Plastina Anna Franca
Published: May 2015

Providing learner control opportunities, such as making individual choices and using preferred learning styles, is a difficult task in the tertiary ESP classroom. Curricular courses can be supplemented with integrative CALL experiences in Personal Learning Environments (PLEs) to overcome classroom constraints. ESP course design in these environments should, however, focus on key aspects which allow learners greater degrees of control. The current study investigates whether content sequencing, pace of learning and access to learning support can be designed to facilitate higher learner control, and whether learners take advantage of these options. For this purpose, it analyses the design of an ESP course implemented in a PLE for pre-intermediate ESP learners studying at a university in Italy. A preliminary investigation on participants' learning styles and navigation behaviour confirms that students chose to exercise high control over content sequencing, pace of learning and access to learning support, thanks to the design options allowed.
Promoting Critical Thinking for All Ability Levels in an Online English as a Second Language Course
Authors: Hadar Linor Lea , Genser Lynne
Published: May 2015

This study explores the development of critical thinking among undergraduate students in the context of an “English as a Second Language course”. A structured, online forum task demanding an increasing level of critical thinking was repeated four times during the year. Students' use of critical thinking skills was evaluated in terms of the variety of critical thinking skills and the number of times each skill was repeated. Two groups were compared: low advantage students versus average to high advantage students. Students of both ability groups improved their critical thinking in the three more concrete tasks and showed a decrease in the fourth more abstract task. While low advantage students started at a significantly lower level than the rest of the students, they reached the same level by the second critical thinking activity. The pedagogical implications of these findings are discussed.
Constructing a Multimedia Mobile Classroom Using a Novel Feedback System
Authors: Huang Wen-Chen , Chen Ching-Wen , Weng Richard
Published: May 2015

In the conventional classroom, many obstacles hinder interaction between an instructor and students, such as limited class hours, fixed seating, and inadequate time for meetings after class. This work develops a novel multimedia mobile classroom feedback system (MMCFS) that instantly displays students' responses, such as class-related questions or answers to questions on a quiz, on the instructor's computer. This system reinforces interaction between instructors and students and improves learning efficiency. Its features are as follows: 1) automatic attendance checking; 2) in-class real-time evaluation; 3) improved willingness of students to raise questions; 4) immediate grade enquiring; 5) cross-platform functionality; 6) a virtual mobile classroom; 7) data integrity; 8) low construction cost; 9) group learning; and 10) learning process recording. This system uses a client-server and three-tiered architecture models as its framework. When a class is in progress, the instructor only requires a notebook computer with a web browser, while students need a mobile phone or equivalent mobile devices with built-in Java Platform, Micro Edition (J2ME) and wireless support. A web server and the rear-end database can be located outside the classroom when network connections are available. Attendance checking, conducting quizzes, instant question inquiring, and grade inquiring are the four primary functions of the system. A questionnaire is applied to evaluate system's interactivity, mobility, and functionality. The 105 subjects comprised two classes of undergraduate students. The questionnaire addresses interactivity, mobility, and functionality. Its purpose was to compare the proposed system and the interactive response system (IRS). Experimental results show that the proposed system has superior interactivity, mobility, and functionality.
Arts Teachers' Media and Digital Literacy in Kindergarten
Authors: Zhao Pei , Li Xiaojun
Published: May 2015

Children live in a media oriented world, and media skills need to be taught already starting from the early years. Practicing media production can be seen as a core activity for media education in early childhood. The idea is linked to the 21st century definition of media: instead of thinking of media and digital culture as a simple, one-to-one way communication, it is better to consider media as parts of systems of actions and activities. In other words, it should be seen as a form of social processes. In this case study, the authors investigated children's shared blogging in a kindergarten in two different countries. The public blog was operated between Finland and China in order to build communication between those countries and get children's viewpoints from a different culture and shared communication. Arts education (visual art) was used as a tool for the online communication and blog's content production. On the basis of this study, a shared blog could be a pedagogically functional way to teach children the social media use and interaction as a part of their early childhood education. Pedagogically organized use of social media is also the way to give young children own voice in digital media culture, and to connect other children around the world.
Millennial Leadership
Authors: Graham C. Matt , Daniel Harold , Doore Brian
Published: May 2015

The development of information systems is a difficult process that often ends in failing to meet the project's initial goals. Typical outcomes for information systems development projects include delivering promised products & services on time and within budget. These pressures are now compounded by the use of virtual teams that present a new set of challenges related to the cohesion, organization, and functioning of the team process. Specifically, virtual teams must contend with problems in team formation, the organizational environment in which the team operates, and the technology used for collaboration and communication. As more organizations use virtual teams, these problems present real and pressing obstacles to the successful completion of database systems development. The goal of the study was to determine whether leadership type, transformational, transactional, or management-by-exception was significantly related to leadership effectiveness in a virtual team tasked with developing a database management system. This study targeted millennial students at the Maine Business School who were assigned to virtual teams tasked with developing a database management system. Specifically, this study sought to answer three hypotheses: 1) what is the effect of leadership type, as self-reported through the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire on the quality of completed team projects?; 2) What is the impact of type of leadership on virtual team effectiveness as measured by the Virtual Teams Survey?; and, 3) Are there interactions between leadership style and virtual team effectiveness on the quality and uniqueness of the completed team project? Findings suggest leadership style and virtual team effectiveness did predict project quality, Transformational and Management-by-exception leadership styles had a negative relationship with virtual team effectiveness. Findings further suggest that Transactional leadership style influenced project quality directly, while transformational and management-by-exception styles influenced project quality indirectly through their direct influence on virtual team effectiveness. These findings suggest that traditionally effective leadership types do not work well for Millennial Generation teams in virtual environments
Enterprise Content Management Systems as a Knowledge Infrastructure
Authors: Le Dinh Thang , Rickenberg Tim A. , Fill Hans-Georg , Breitner Michael H.
Published: May 2015

The rise of the knowledge-based economy has significantly transformed the economies of developed countries from managed economies into entrepreneurial economies, which deal with knowledge as both input and output. Consequently, knowledge has become a key asset for organizations and knowledge management is one of the driving forces of business success. One of the most important challenges faced by enterprises today is to manage both knowledge assets and the e-collaboration process between knowledge workers. Critical business knowledge and information is often contained in mostly unstructured documents in content management systems. Therefore, content management based on knowledge perspectives is crucial for organizations, especially knowledge-intensive organizations. Enterprise Content Management has evolved as an integrated approach to managing documents and content on an enterprise-wide scale. This approach must be enhanced in order to build a robust foundation to support knowledge development and the collaboration process. This paper presents the KBCM (Knowledge-Based Content Management) framework for constructing a knowledge infrastructure based on the perspective of knowledge components that could help enterprises create more business value by classifying content formally and enabling its transformation into valuable knowledge assets.
Stability Enhancement in Multi-Machine Power Systems by Fuzzy-based Coordinated AVR-PSS
Authors: Khezri Rahmat , Bevrani Hassan
Published: May 2015

This paper presents performance of intelligent fuzzy-based coordinated control for Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) and Power System Stabilizer (PSS), to prevent losing synchronism after major sudden faults and to achieve appropriate post-fault voltage level in multi-machine power systems. The AVR and PSS gains can adaptively change to guarantee the power system stability after faults. For change in AVR and PSS gains, at least one significant generator in each area of a multi-area power system is equipped with fuzzy logic unit. The fuzzy logic unit accepts normalized deviations of terminal voltage and phase difference of synchronous generators as inputs and generates the desirable gains for AVR and PSS. The construction of appropriate fuzzy membership functions and rules for best tuning of gains is described. The proposed fuzzy control methodology is applied to 11-bus 4-generator power system test case. Simulation results illustrate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed fuzzy-based coordinated control strategy.
Optimal Design of Single Machine Power System Stabilizer using Chemical Reaction Optimization Technique
Authors: Paul Sourav , Roy Provas Kumar
Published: May 2015

PSSs are added to excitation systems to enhance the damping during low frequency oscillations. The non-linear model of a machine is linearized at different operating points. Chemical Reaction optimization (CRO), a new population based search algorithm is been proposed in this paper to damp the power system low-frequency oscillations and enhance power system stability. Computation results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm is effective in damping low frequency oscillations as well as improving system dynamic stability. The performance of the proposed algorithm is evaluated for different loading conditions. In addition, the proposed algorithm is more effective and provides superior performance when compared other population based optimization algorithms like differential evolution (DE) and particle swarm optimization (PSO).
The Pedagogical Application of Alternate Reality Games
Authors: Lynch Ronan , Mallon Bride , Connolly Cornelia
Published: May 2015

The advent of the Internet has been instrumental in producing new Game Based Learning (GBL) tools where education and games converge. Alternate Reality Games (ARGs) are one such GBL tool. Interactive narrative games that use the Internet as a central communications platform, ARGs challenge players to collaboratively collate a fragmented story. When used for educational purposes, Serious ARGs provide a novel form of GBL that encourages critical thinking, develops problem-solving skills and fosters collaborative learning. However, the pedagogical application of ARGs is still relatively new. This article presents a background to ARGs and Serious ARGs. It also outlines the lessons drawn from Plunkett's Pages, a Serious ARG that focuses on actual historical events. A selection of evaluation criteria, extracted from the reflections of those who played Plunkett's Pages are presented. These criteria are intended to enable novice ARG designers or educators to formatively evaluate an emerging ARG design.
Gamified Assessment Supported by a Dynamic 3D Collaborative Game
Authors: Mavridis Apostolos , Tsiatsos Thrasyvoulos , Chatzakis Michalis , Kitsikoudis Konstantinos , Lazarou Efthymios
Published: May 2015

This study examined whether a 3D collaborative gave can be used as a midterm examination method and investigated the impact of this game on students' attitude towards collaboration. A total of 89 students and one coordinating professor participated in this study. The intervention lasted five weeks and took place in a computer science department. The game that was used as a treatment was dynamic and therefore the educator was able to customize its content for the examinations using an administration panel. A mixed method of quantitative and qualitative data collection was used. The results indicated that there was a statistically significant correlation between the performance of the students on the game and their performance on the final paper-based examination. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the attitude of the students towards collaboration before and after the use of the game.
Contention-Free Station Communication Matching Algorithm in Multi-Hop Power Management for Wireless Ad-Hoc Networks
Authors: Huang Shih-Chang , Chang Hong-Yi
Published: May 2015

Many single-hop power management mechanisms have been proposed in previous studies. Compared to the multi-hop power management mechanisms, the design of the single-hop power management mechanism in a wireless network is relatively simple. However, existing methods are difficult to balance the transmission utilization and energy efficiency. This paper proposes the Contention-Free Station Communication Matching (CFSCM) algorithm for multi-hop power management. CFSCM is based on list-based scheduling with Time-Division Multiple Access (TDMA). CFSCM appropriately schedules the data transmission of nodes and power management. In addition, CFSCM adopts multiple channels to improve the performance of data transmission. Simulation results show that the proposed method can significantly improve transmission utilization and avoid the hidden terminal problems.
Improving the Crisis to Crisis Learning Process
Authors: Rich Eliot , Hernantes Josune , Laugé Ana , Labaka Leire , Sarriegi Jose M. , Gonzalez Jose J.
Published: May 2015

While crises may appear to be event-driven, post-mortem accounts often identify factors that accumulate over time and increase the likelihood of failure. These factors are particularly difficult to anticipate when multiple organizations are involved in crisis preparation and event detection. Through the development of a systems-based model of crisis management, it was learned that knowledge sharing can be accelerated or inhibited by the development of trust among organizations through the management of events. Is it possible to operationalize this finding? This hypothesis is one of the findings of the SEMPOC project, which examined crisis preparation and mitigation in the hypothetical context of an extended failure in the EU power infrastructure. The knowledge-sharing hypothesis is being tested in the ELITE project, a second activity funded by the EU to develop a multi-national Community of Practice in disaster management.
Comparing Different Crowd Emergency Evacuation Models Based on Human Centered Sensing Criteria
Authors: Radianti Jaziar , Granmo Ole-Christoffer , Bouhmala Noureddine , Sarshar Parvaneh , Gonzalez Jose J.
Published: May 2015

Emergency evacuation of crowds is a fascinating phenomenon that has attracted researchers from various fields. Better understanding of this class of crowd behavior opens up for improving evacuation policies and smarter design of buildings, increasing safety. Recently, a new class of disruptive technology has appeared: Human-centered sensing which allows crowd behavior to be monitored in real-time, and provides the basis for real-time crowd control. The question then becomes: to what degree can previous crowd models incorporate this development, and what areas need further research? In this paper, the authors provide a survey that describes some widely used crowd models and discuss the advantages and shortages from the angle of human-centered sensing. Their review reveals important research opportunities that may contribute to an improved and more robust emergency management.
Sizing of a Composting Plant and a Reception and Storage Center for an Ecological Park in Mexico
Authors: Rojas-Valencia M. Neftalí , Martínez Alfredo Galicia
Published: May 2015

The management of the 86,388.00 tons of solid wastes generated every day in Mexico is a complicated matter. In order to help solve this problem, sustainable buildings that include solid waste management plants and community awareness programs are being constructed. The objective of this research is to propose the building of a reception and storage center for storing the economically valuable wastes as well as a composting plant for treating the organic fraction within the installations of a sustainable park. The methodology is based on Laws, Regulations and Standards related to sustainable buildings, reception and storage centers and composting plants. From a generation study conducted in an ecological park, the volumetric weights of the generated wastes were obtained, the most abundant ones being polyethylene terephthalate (better known as PET), 38.75 kg/m3; food wastes, 110.5 kg/m3; and gardening wastes, 2443 kg/m3. PET wastes and plastics were added and a volume of 7.8 m3 in three months was obtained. This volume was used to design the four specific areas into which the reception and storage center was divided, each area being 2 meters long, 1.5 meters wide and 2 meters high, plus one meter for ventilation purposes. A movable partition was proposed in order to accommodate the eventual need of a larger space for a given type of wastes. As regard to the composting plant the method applied in the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) workshop - composting techniques was used, in which compost density is established at 250 kg/m3 and the daily volume of organic wastes (2.25 m3) was obtained to design a weekly mound being 1.5 meters long, 0.8 meter wide and 1.2 meters high, forming a 16-meter-long pile in three months. These areas will help promote awareness among the visitors.
BioCrystal
Authors: Roseway Asta , Lutchyn Yuliya , Johns Paul , Mynatt Elizabeth , Czerwinski Mary
Published: May 2015

In this paper the authors present the BioCrystal – a biofeedback device that uses physiological data to evaluate user's affective states in real-time and signals the states via an ambient display. The authors evaluated the BioCrystal during a 2-week, in situ multi-method study during which ten users collected over 115 hours of usable data. Users' comments suggested high utility of such a biofeedback device for self-awareness, stress-management and interpersonal communication. Quantitative data confirmed that the BioCrystal met the criteria of an ambient display, and significantly improved users' ability to control their stress. The authors discuss practical applications and suggest directions for future development.
Enhancing Self-Reflection with Wearable Sensors Workshop
Authors: Kefalidou Genovefa , Shipp Vicky , Pinchin James , Dix Alan
Published: May 2015

On 23rd September 2014 the authors organised a workshop on self-reflection tools and wearable sensors as part of the ACM MobileHCI 2014 Conference in Toronto, Canada. The aim of the workshop was to bring together professionals from different backgrounds to discuss the current adoption of such methodological tools, their challenges and future trends. Examples of own individuals' work were presented where such methodologies had been employed. Hands-on activities enabled us to fine- tune our understanding of those methodologies and unpack new potentials regarding their advantages and limitations. The workshop argued that the potential synthesis of such methodologies in collecting data will contribute to a new form of ‘Big Data on-the-go' while introducing ethical, control and management challenges. The workshop revealed interesting opportunities arising from the synergies of sensors and reflection tools with a wide range of applications. Finally, the workshop offered opportunities for experimenting with sensors and reflection tools on site.
Effects of four varieties ofLathyrus sativus(Fabaceae) seeds on the bionomics ofCallosobruchus maculatus(Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Authors: Adhikary Poulami , Malik Ujjwal , Barik Anandamay
Published: May 2015

The effect of four varieties ofLathyrus sativusLinnaeus (Fabaceae) seeds (Bio L 212 Ratan, Nirmal B-1, WBK-14-7, and WBK-13-1) on the bionomics ofCallosobruchus maculatus(Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae) was studied under laboratory conditions. Total larval developmental time was longer on WBK-13-1 than Bio L 212 Ratan. Adult emergence was highest on Bio L 212 Ratan followed by Nirmal B-1, WBK-14-7, and WBK-13-1. The development and fecundity were related with nutrient and antinutritional factors of khesari seeds. Total carbohydrates and proteins were highest in Bio L 212 Ratan and Nirmal B-1 while lipids and nitrogen were highest in Bio L 212 Ratan and least in WBK-13-1. Amino acids were higher in Nirmal B-1 and WBK-13-1. Phenols were greatest in Nirmal B-1 and least in Bio L 212 Ratan and WBK-14-7. β-ODAP was higher in Bio L 212 Ratan and Nirmal B-1. The lower levels of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nitrogen, water content, and higher trypsin inhibitor activity of WBK-14-7 and WBK-13-1 may explain the higher developmental time and lower fecundity ofC. maculatuson these varieties. These results suggest that infestations ofC. maculatusmay be easier to manage on WBK-14-7 and WBK-13-1 than on the other varieties of khesari seeds.
Stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation: findings from Tuscan FADOI Stroke Registry
Authors: Masotti Luca , Innocenti Rinaldo , Spolveri Stefano , Chiti Irene , Panigada Grazia , Seravalle Cristiana , Landini Giancarlo , Fortini Alberto , Migliacci Rino , Laureano Raffaele , Investigators For Tuscan FADOI Stroke Registry
Published: May 2015

Despite vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) are considered the first choice treatment for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation (AF), literature shows their underuse in this context. Since data about VKAs use prior and after acute stroke lack, the aim of this study was to focus on management of anticoagulation with VKAs in this context. Data were retrieved from Tuscan FADOI Stroke Registry, an online data bank aimed to report on characteristics of stroke patients consecutively admitted in Internal Medicine wards in 2010 and 2011. In this period 819 patients with mean age 76.5±12.3 years were enrolled. Data on etiology were available for 715 of them (88.1%), 87% being ischemic and 13% hemorrhagic strokes. AF was present in 238 patients (33%), 165 (69.3%) having a known AF before hospitalization, whereas 73 patients (31.7%) received a new diagnosis of AF. A percentage of 89% of strokes in patients with known AF were ischemic and 11% hemorrhagic. A percentage of 86.7% of patients with known AF had a CHADS2 ≥2, but only 28.3% were on VKAs before hospitalization. A percentage of 78.8% of patients treated with VKAs before stroke had an international normalized ratio (INR) ≤2.0; 68.7% of patients with VKAs-related hemorrhagic strokes had INR ≤3.0. Combined endpoint mortality or severe disability in patients with ischemic stroke associated with AF was present in 47%, while it was present in 19.30% and 19.20% of atherothrombotic and lacunar strokes, respectively. At hospital discharge, VKAs were prescribed in 25.9% of AF related ischemic stroke patients. AF related strokes are burdened by severe outcome but VKAs are dramatically underused in patients with AF, even in higher risk patients. Efforts to improve anticoagulation in this stroke subtype are warranted.
Dyspnea: when the preliminary imaging is unconvincing
Authors: Moretti Angelica , Croci Francesca , Carmassi Franco
Published: May 2015

A 73-year-old man was admitted to the Emergency Room (ER) for dyspnea and cough from several months. In ER were performed blood sampling, chest X-ray, electrocardiogram, echocardiogram and arterial blood gas. A thoracic ultrasound (US) revealed in the left side an abundant pleural effusion and a lung consolidation area of about 5 cm without air bronchogram. A thoracentesis showed the presence of hemorrhagic effusion. Chest computed tomography (CT) revealed micro-pulmonary embolism, abundant left pleural effusion with atelectasis of the lower ipsilateral lobe. Meanwhile the chest CT revised by the pulmonologist appeared suspicious for the presence of cancer, the cytological examination of pleural fluid revealed the presence of an adenocarcinoma. While the patient was waiting for the bronchoscopy he had a stroke and died in a few days. In conclusion, we believe that thoracic US has to be considered an extension of the physical examination, it is a bedside tool and it represents a valid diagnostic and therapeutic method. Therefore thoracic US, if closely linked to the physician’s activity, can directly affect the decision-making process and management of the patient with dyspnea.
Surgical Anatomy of Nasolacrimal Duct and Sac in Human Cadavers
Authors: Gupta Tulika , Sahni Suhalika S , Goyal Ruchi
Published: May 2015

Background

Surgical importance of the nasolacrimal duct (NLD) for both otolaryngologists and ophthalmologists cannot be overemphasized. Injury to this structure can lead to iatrogenic epiphora, synechiae formation and need for secondary lacrimal diversion procedures.

Materials and methods

The present study was conducted on 27 mid-sagittal sections of head and neck of formalin fixed adult cadavers. The inferior opening of the NLD was identified and exposed. The duct and the lacrimal sac were dissected. Pertinent distances of the inferior opening of the NLD from the easily identifiable surgical landmarks were recorded, so as to accurately locate the inferior opening of the duct using a digital vernier calliper (accuracy 0.02 mm, Mitutoya, Japan). Various dimensions and angulation of the duct and lacrimal sac were measured.

Results

The average length of NLD was 11.42 ± 2.45 mm and it was making an angle of 20° with the vertical plane. The duct was narrowest in caliber in its upper 1/3rd in majority (82%) of the cases. The average diameter of the inferior opening of the NLD was 3.14 mm. In two cases (7.4%), the opening was only 1.8 mm wide. The mean distance of the inferior opening of the duct was 20.7 mm from the columella, 25.5 mm below the skull base and 16.5 mm above the hard palate. The average distance between the inferior opening of the NLD and anterior end of the inferior turbinate was 14.8 mm. The mean A-P diameter of superior opening of NLD was about 3 mm. The average length and width of nasolacrimal sac at its center was 6.95 and 3.24 mm respectively.

Conclusion

Detailed anatomical knowledge of the NLD is of great importance for safe and successful endonasal surgery. The present study attempts to provide useful surgical guidelines by using anatomic and positional relationships between the NLD and the major surrounding landmarks.

How to cite this article

Sahni SS, Goyal R, Gupta T, Gupta AK. Surgical Anatomy of Nasolacrimal Duct and Sac in Human Cadavers. Clin Rhinol An Int J 2014;7(3):91-95.
Efficacy of Mitomycin-C for Prevention of Adhesion Formation after Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery in Cases of Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Prospective Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Harugop Anilkumar Suryadev , Mudhol Ramesh , Nargund Amit , Hugar Shailaja , Kapoor Amrit , Shetty Rohan
Published: May 2015

Objective

To determine whether topical application of mitomycin- C at the conclusion of FESS decreases the incidence of postoperative adhesion formation.

Study design

Prospective cross-sectional study.

Materials and methods

Between June 2011 and June 2013, 42 patients (65 sides) aged between 16 and 66 years diagnosed to have chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) underwent FESS. At the conclusion of the ESS, cotton ribbon wick soaked with 1 ml mitomycin-C (0.4 mg/ml) was placed in right/left/ both middle meati, near the widened sinus ostia for a period of 4 minutes. Following application, nasal cavity was irrigated with sterile normal saline. Patients were examined weekly for 1 month after surgery. Additional examinations were done at the end of 2nd and 3rd months postoperatively. At the end of 3 months follow-up, the outcome was assessed subjectively by symptoms and objectively by endoscopic findings.

Results

At the end of 3 months follow-up, a significant decrease (80%) in symptom scores was observed (6.64 ± 1.80, p < 0.001). Similarly in sinonasal outcome test (SNOT) score we observed a significant reduction (71%) in scores (17.76 ± 8.17, p < 0.001) and 3.1% cases showed adhesions.

Conclusion

CRS patients have remarkable improvement in their symptoms after FESS. Topical application of mitomycin-C at the conclusion of FESS/ESS has a role in prevention of adhesion formation.

How to cite this article

Harugop AS, Mudhol R, Nargund A, Hugar S, Kapoor A, Shetty R. Efficacy of Mitomycin-C for Prevention of Adhesion Formation after Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery in Cases of Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Prospective Cross-sectional Study. Clin Rhinol An Int J 2014;7(3):100-104.
Foreign Body Ethmoid: An Unusual Presentation
Authors: Gulati Ankit , Malik Priya , Virk Shehbaaz Singh
Published: May 2015

A patient with 8 cm long penetrating wooden foreign body in the left ethmoid which was lying along the long-axis of ethmoid is presented. It was successfully managed. Investigation and management strategy is discussed.

How to cite this article

Kakkar V, Virk SS, Sharma C, Malik P, Bishnoi S, Gulati A. Foreign Body Ethmoid: An Unusual Presentation. Clin Rhinol An Int J 2014;7(3):130-131.
Definitions and Concepts on Keratoconus and Ectatic Corneal Diseases: Panamerican Delphi Consensus — A Pilot for the Global Consensus on Ectasias
Authors: Perez Victor L , Abad Juan Carlos , Gomes José Alvaro P
Published: May 2015

Purpose

To establish consensus on definitions and concepts of keratoconus and ectatic corneal diseases by using Delphi approach.

Materials and methods

Seventeen Latin American experts on keratoconus and ectatic corneal diseases participated in a 3-round Delphi panel approach. A web-based 12 question survey was answered by panelists in two rounds, followed by life discussion meeting. A two-third majority strategy was defined as a consensus.

Results

Corneal ectatic diseases were defined as progressive thinning conditions without acute stromal inflammation, and were classified as keratoconus, pellucid marginal degeneration (PMD), keratoglobus, and ectasia after trauma or surgery. The pattern of thinning was considered the main aspect for the classification of ectatic diseases, but criteria for staging the disease needs to be improved. Corneal tomography with 3D reconstruction, distinguished from Placido-disk based front surface topography was elected as the diagnostic procedure currently capable of detecting the earliest clinical ectatic changes. Biomechanical alterations were considered to be the first event for ectasia development. Eye rubbing was directly related to the development and progression of ectasia. Inflammation was considered as a possible event on the physiopathology. Keratoconus was considered as a bilateral disease, with often asymmetric presentation, while ectasia may occur unilaterally if there is significant corneal insult, leading to biomechanical failure. No consensus was achieved for the definitions on forme fruste keratoconus (FFKC).

Conclusion

Consensus was achieved on definitions of corneal ectatic diseases. Disease staging, including criteria for FFKC or subclinical ectasia remains controversial. A larger consensus including experts from different groups around the world is needed.

How to cite this article

Ambrósio RJr, Belin MW, Perez VL, Abad JC, Gomes JAP. Definitions and Concepts on Keratoconus and Ectatic Corneal Diseases: Panamerican Delphi Consensus — A Pilot for the Global Consensus on Ectasias. Int J Kerat Ect Cor Dis 2014;3(3):99-106.
Eye Rubbing and Keratoconus: A Literature Review
Authors: Hawkes Elizabeth , Nanavaty Mayank A
Published: May 2015

Keratoconus is a progressive corneal ectactic condition that can lead to visual loss. Despite being the most common cause for keratoplasty in the developed world the aetiology is unknown. It is thought to be multifactorial, with genetic and environmental factors implicated. The association of eye rubbing and pathogenesis of keratoconus has been well documented. In this review, we collate the existing literature and summarize the current knowledge of the role of eye rubbing in the pathogenesis of keratoconus.

How to cite this article

Hawkes E, Nanavaty MA. Eye Rubbing and Keratoconus: A Literature Review. Int J Kerat Ect Cor Dis 2014;3(3):118-121.