bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of Tantalum Substituted Potassium Tungsten Bronzes
Authors: Shakil Md Mahbubur R , Debnath Tapas , Ruscher Claus H , Hussain Altaf
Published: September 2012

A series of compounds KxTayW1-yO3 with x = 0.30, 0.00 ? y ? 0.30 and x = 0.55, 0.00 ? y ? 0.10 were synthesized by conventional solid-state method. The samples were characterized using XRD and FTIR spectroscopy. X-ray powder patterns reveal that the samples with compositions x = 0.30, y ? 0.30 show hexagonal tungsten bronze (HTB) type phase and the samples with x = 0.55, 0.02 ? y ? 0.10 show a mixture of two phases (K-HTB and tetragonal potassium tungsten bronze, K-TTB). The samples of the system, K0.30TayW1-yO3 with 0.00 ? y ? 0.15 shows no significant change in the cell parameters. However, for the composition y > 0.15, the cell parameter a decreases and c increases with increasing Ta content, which may be  explained by the ordering of Ta for y > 0.15 suggesting the transformation to another  space group. The appearance of absorption peak in the infrared absorption spectra of K0.3TayW1-yO3, y > 0.10 samples indicate the transition to non-metallic phase. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbcs.v25i1.11770 Journal of Bangladesh Chemical Society, Vol. 25(1), 38-45, 2012
The Effect of Deactivating Groups in the Formation of Some Biologically Important Lactams (Isatins) and their Further Derivatization
Authors: Hossain Mohammad M , Ferdous Noor N , Muhib Md Hasan , Alam Md Sultan , Islam Md Rabiul , Hai Md Abdul , Zoghaib Wajdi
Published: September 2012

Treatment of different aromatic primary amines (7a-b) with chloral hydrate andhydroxylamine hydrochloride under microwave (MW) conditions afforded correspondingisonitrosoacetanilides (6a-b). These intermediate compounds (6a-b) were cyclized inconc. H2SO4 medium to give cyclic amides (5a-b) by means of elcetrophilicaromatic substitution reaction. The microwave (MW) mediated treatment of compound5a with thiosemicarbazide afforded the corresponding Schiff-base 4a, which undergoescyclization to give thiadiazoline (1). Beside, compound 4a was also treated with aq KOHsolution under MW condition to give triazinothione (3). The Sn-HCl mediatedreduction of compound 3 afforded the corresponding 6-aminothione (2). On the otherhand, compound 5b was treated with o-phenylenediamine under MW condition to givethe corresponding quinoxaline derivative 4b in excellent yield. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbcs.v25i1.11771 Journal of Bangladesh Chemical Society, Vol. 25(1), 46-52, 2012
Removal of Chromium from Tannery Effluent Using Chitosan-Charcoal Composite
Authors: Siraj Shajahan , Islam Md Monarul , Das Prokash Chandra , Masum Shah Md , Jahan Ismet Ara , Ahsan Md Aminul , Shajahan Md
Published: September 2012

Chitosan-charcoal composite was applied as a media to treat tannery effluent. The composite was prepared by a simple solution-evaporation method and the morphology of the prepared composite was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Adsorption of chromium (Cr) was investigated by varying the contact time between adsorbate (Cr) and composite, pH of solution and dose of composite. The concentration of Cr was determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Removal of Cr was found to be dependent on pH and maximum adsorption was observed at pH 4.0. The optimum dose and contact time for Cr treatment was 40 g/L and 250 minutes respectively. The results showed that prepared composite can be used efficiently for the treatment of tannery wastewater containing chromium. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbcs.v25i1.11774 Journal of Bangladesh Chemical Society, Vol. 25(1), 53-61, 2012
Presence of Yellow 6, an Artificial Colour Additive in Orange Juice
Authors: Sultana Abida , Haque Mohammad S , Shoeb Mohammad , Islam M Saiful , Mamun M Iqbal R , Nahar Nilufar
Published: September 2012

Soft drinks and orange juices are very popular all over the world including Bangladesh. Yellow 6 (Disodium 6-hydroxy-5-(4-sulfophenyl) azo-2-naphthalenesulfonate) was used in food and drinks as color additives earlier but due to its adverse effects on human health, yellow 6 has been banned in many countries. However, this harmful color additive yellow 6 is being used in commercial orange drinks in Bangladesh. Ten commercial brand yellow colored soft drinks and juices were analyzed to find out the presence of yellow 6. Juice prepared from fresh fruits was used as control. The UV-visible absorption maxima of yellow 6 is 429 nm. The amount of yellow 6 in commercial brands and fresh orange juices was determined by UV-visible spectrophotometer. Out of ten samples, seven juice samples were found to contain yellow 6 in the range of 0.83-1.66 mg/mL.   Fresh juice did not show any absorption at 429 nm. This is an easy and cost effective   method to assess the presence of yellow 6 in orange juice and the method can be used for other food stuffs. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbcs.v25i1.11778 Journal of Bangladesh Chemical Society, Vol. 25(1), 80-86, 2012
Characterization of the Eucalyptus ( E. Globulus) Leaves Oil
Authors: Khan Astaq Mohal , Khatun Seatara , Hossain MK , Rahman M L
Published: September 2012

Studies were carried out on the characterization of Eucalyptus globulus leaves oil. It is found that Eucalyptus globulus tree bears a lot of leaves which are grown under the soil texture and climatic condition of Bangladesh contain a fair amount of pale yellow  coloured volatile oil. The oil of the leaves were extracted by hydro distillation method     during the month of July to December. The highest yield (3.5%) of the oil was obtained from the maturity leaves of the tree in the month of July and the lowest yield (0.08) in the month of December. Physico-chemical characteristics of the extracted oil like saponification value, acid value, iodine value, specific gravity, refractive index, optical     rotation and separation of lipid classes were studied by the conventional methods and the results suggested that the oil can be used suitably for the preparation of pharmaceutical  and industrial products. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbcs.v25i1.11780 Journal of Bangladesh Chemical Society, Vol. 25(2),97-100, 2012
Kullback–Leibler Divergence Measure for Multivariate Skew-Normal Distributions
Authors: Contreras-Reyes Javier E. , Arellano-Valle Reinaldo B.
Published: September 2012

The aim of this work is to provide the tools to compute the well-known Kullback–Leibler divergence measure for the flexible family of multivariate skew-normal distributions. In particular, we use the Jeffreys divergence measure to compare the multivariate normal distribution with the skew-multivariate normal distribution, showing that this is equivalent to comparing univariate versions of these distributions. Finally, we applied our results on a seismological catalogue data set related to the 2010 Maule earthquake. Specifically, we compare the distributions of the local magnitudes of the regions formed by the aftershocks.
Relationship between Heavy Metal Concentrations in Soils and Grasses of Roadside Farmland in Nepal
Authors: Yan Xuedong , Zhang Fan , Zeng Chen , Zhang Man , Devkota Lochan Prasad , Yao Tandong
Published: September 2012

Transportation activities can contribute to accumulation of heavy metals in roadside soil and grass, which could potentially compromise public health and the environment if the roadways cross farmland areas. Particularly, heavy metals may enter the food chain as a result of their uptake by roadside edible grasses. This research was conducted to investigate heavy metal (Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb) concentrations in roadside farmland soils and corresponding grasses around Kathmandu, Nepal. Four factors were considered for the experimental design, including sample type, sampling location, roadside distance, and tree protection. A total of 60 grass samples and 60 topsoil samples were collected under dry weather conditions. The Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) results indicate that the concentrations of Cu, Zn, and Pb in the soil samples are significantly higher than those in the grass samples; the concentrations of Cu and Pb in the suburban roadside farmland are higher than those in the rural mountainous roadside farmland; and the concentrations of Cu and Zn at the sampling locations with roadside trees are significantly lower than those without tree protection. The analysis of transfer factor, which is calculated as the ratio of heavy-metal concentrations in grass to those in the corresponding soil, indicates that the uptake capabilities of heavy metals from soil to grass is in the order of Zn > Cu > Pb. Additionally, it is found that as the soils’ heavy-metal concentrations increase, the capability of heavy-metal transfer to the grass decreases, and this relationship can be characterized by an exponential regression model.
Biocompatibility of Genipin and Glutaraldehyde Cross-Linked Chitosan Materials in the Anterior Chamber of the Eye
Authors: Lai Jui-Yang
Published: September 2012

Chitosan is a naturally occurring cationic polysaccharide and has attracted much attention in the past decade as an important ophthalmic biomaterial. We recently demonstrated that the genipin (GP) cross-linked chitosan is compatible with human retinal pigment epithelial cells. The present work aims to further investigate the in vivo biocompatibility of GP-treated chitosan (GP-chi group) by adopting the anterior chamber of a rabbit eye model. The glutaraldehyde (GTA) cross-linked samples (GTA-chi group) were used for comparison. The 7-mm-diameter membrane implants made from either non-cross-linked chitosan or chemically modified materials with a cross-linking degree of around 80% were inserted in the ocular anterior chamber for 24 weeks and characterized by slit-lamp and specular microscopic examinations, intraocular pressure measurements, and corneal thickness measurements. The interleukin-6 expressions at mRNA level were also detected by quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Results of clinical observations showed that the overall ocular scores in the GTA-chi groups were relatively high. In contrast, the rabbits bearing GP-chi implants in the anterior chamber of the eye exhibited no signs of ocular inflammation. As compared to the non-cross-linked counterparts, the GP-chi samples improved the preservation of corneal endothelial cell density and possessed better anti-inflammatory activities, indicating the benefit action of the GP cross-linker. In summary, the intracameral tissue response to the chemically modified chitosan materials strongly depends on the selection of cross-linking agents.
Antibacterial and Antioxidant Potency of Floral Honeys from Different Botanical and Geographical Origins
Authors: Alzahrani Hasan A. , Alsabehi Rashid , Boukraâ Laïd , Abdellah Fatiha , Bellik Yuva , Bakhotmah Balkees A.
Published: September 2012

In order to assess their physicochemical and antioxidant properties as well as their antimicrobial potency, four varieties of honey from different botanical and geographical origins were used. The agar incorporation method was used to determine the antimicrobial potency of honeys. The total phenol content was determined by a modified Folin–Ciocalteu method and the free radical scavenging activity by the Fe3+ reducing power (FRAP) assay. Manuka honey was the most effective against Staphylococcus aureus Oxa R and S. aureus Oxa S with a Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of 6% and 7%, respectively, whereas wild carrot honey was the most effective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with a MIC of 12%. Lavender honey was the least effective against all tested strains, even though was found to have the lowest pH and water content. Manuka honey had the highest content of polyphenols, with 899.09 ± 11.75 mg gallic acid/kg, whereas lavender honey had the lowest, with 111.42 ± 3.54 mg gallic acid/kg. A very significant correlation (r value was 0.9079 at P < 0.05) was observed between the total polyphenolic content and the Fe2+ content formed in the presence of the honey antioxidants. The differences between honey samples in terms of antibacterial and antioxidant activity could be attributed to the natural variations in floral sources of nectar and the different locations.
Exercise-Induced Immunodepression in Endurance Athletes and Nutritional Intervention with Carbohydrate, Protein and Fat — What Is Possible, What Is Not?
Authors: Gunzer Wolfgang , Konrad Manuela , Pail Elisabeth
Published: September 2012

Heavily exercising endurance athletes experience extreme physiologic stress, which is associated with temporary immunodepression and higher risk of infection, particularly upper respiratory tract infections (URTI). The aim of this review is to provide a critical up-to-date review of existing evidence on the immunomodulatory potential of selected macronutrients and to evaluate their efficacy. The results of 66 placebo-controlled and/or crossover trials were compared and analysed. Among macronutrients, the most effective approach to maintain immune function in athletes is to consume ≥6% carbohydrate during prolonged exercise. Because inadequate nutrition affects almost all aspects of the immune system, a well-balanced diet is also important. Evidence of beneficial effects from other macronutrients is scarce and results are often inconsistent. Using a single nutrient may not be as effective as a mixture of several nutritional supplements. Due to limited research evidence, with the exception of carbohydrate, no explicit recommendations to reduce post-exercise URTI symptoms with single macronutrients can be derived.
The Tissue Selective Estrogen Complex: A Promising New Menopausal Therapy
Authors: Komm Barry S. , Mirkin Sebastian
Published: September 2012

Menopause is associated with health concerns including vasomotor symptoms, vulvar/vaginal atrophy (VVA), and osteoporosis. Estrogen therapy or combined estrogen-progestin therapy (EPT) are primary treatment options for menopausal symptom relief and osteoporosis prevention. Because EPT has been associated with some safety/tolerability concerns relating to undesirable effects of estrogen and progestin, alternative options are needed. The tissue selective estrogen complex (TSEC) is a novel class of agents pairing a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) with 1 or more estrogens. The TSEC combines the established efficacy of estrogens on menopausal symptoms and bone with the protective effects of a SERM on the reproductive tract. The pairing of bazedoxifene (BZA) with conjugated estrogens (CE) has been evaluated in a series of phase 3 clinical trials. BZA 20 mg/CE 0.45 mg and BZA 20 mg/CE 0.625 mg have shown efficacy in reducing the frequency and severity of hot flushes, relieving VVA symptoms, and maintaining bone mass while protecting the endometrium and breast. These BZA/CE doses have been associated with a favorable safety/tolerability profile, with higher rates of cumulative amenorrhea and lower incidences of breast pain than those reported for EPT. Thus, BZA/CE may be a promising alternative to conventional EPT for treating non-hysterectomized, postmenopausal women.
Differential Cellular and Molecular Effects of Butyrate and Trichostatin A on Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Milton Shirlette G. , Mathew Omana P. , Yatsu Frank M. , Ranganna Kasturi
Published: September 2012

The histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors, butyrate and trichostatin A (TSA), are epigenetic histone modifiers and proliferation inhibitors by downregulating cyclin D1, a positive cell cycle regulator, and upregulating p21Cip1 and INK family of proteins, negative cell cycle regulators. Our recent study indicated cyclin D1 upregulation in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) that are proliferation-arrested by butyrate. Here we investigate whether cyclin D1 upregulation is a unique response of VSMC to butyrate or a general response to HDAC inhibitors (HDACi) by evaluating the effects of butyrate and TSA on VSMC. While butyrate and TSA inhibit VSMC proliferation via cytostatic and cytotoxic effects, respectively, they downregulate cdk4, cdk6, and cdk2, and upregulate cyclin D3, p21Cip1 and p15INK4B, and cause similar effects on key histone H3 posttranslational modifications. Conversely, cyclin D1 is upregulated by butyrate and inhibited by TSA. Assessment of glycogen synthase 3-dependent phosphorylation, subcellular localization and transcription of cyclin D1 indicates that differential effects of butyrate and TSA on cyclin D1 levels are linked to disparity in cyclin D1 gene expression. Disparity in butyrate- and TSA-induced cyclin D1 may influence transcriptional regulation of genes that are associated with changes in cellular morphology/cellular effects that these HDACi confer on VSMC, as a transcriptional modulator.
Comparison of pH Data Measured with a pH Sensor Array Using Different Data Fusion Methods
Authors: Liao Yi-Hung , Chou Jung-Chuan
Published: September 2012

This paper introduces different data fusion methods which are used for an electrochemical measurement using a sensor array. In this study, we used ruthenium dioxide sensing membrane pH electrodes to form a sensor array. The sensor array was used for detecting the pH values of grape wine, generic cola drink and bottled base water. The measured pH data were used for data fusion methods to increase the reliability of the measured results, and we also compared the fusion results with other different data fusion methods.
Cardiac Stem Cell Therapy: Stemness or Commitment?
Authors: Mehta Ashish , Shim Winston
Published: September 2012

Cardiac stem cell therapy to promote engraftment of de novo beating cardiac muscle cells in cardiomyopathies could potentially improve clinical outcomes for many patients with congestive heart failure. Clinical trials carried out over the last decade for cardiac regeneration have revealed inadequacy of current approaches in cell therapy. Chief among them is the choice of stem cells to achieve the desired outcomes. Initial enthusiasm of adult bone marrow stems cells for myocyte regeneration has largely been relegated to paracrine-driven, donor cell-independent, endogenous cardiac repair. However, true functional restoration in heart failure is likely to require considerable myocyte replacement. In order to match stem cell application to various clinical scenarios, we review the necessity to preprime stem cells towards cardiac fate before myocardial transplantation and if these differentiated stem cells could confer added advantage over current choice of undifferentiated stem cells. We explore differentiation ability of various stem cells to cardiac progenitors/cardiomyocytes and compare their applicability in providing targeted recovery in light of current clinical challenges of cell therapy.
Comparison of Long-term Visual Outcome and IOL Position With a Single-optic Accommodating IOL After 5.5- or 6.0-mm Femtosecond Laser Capsulotomy
Authors: Szigeti Andrea , Kránitz Kinga , Takacs Agnes I. , Miháltz Kata , Knorz Michael C. , Nagy Zoltán Z.
Published: September 2012

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the long-term visual outcome and intraocular (IOL) position parameters with a single-optic accommodating IOL after 5.5- or 6.0-mm femtosecond laser capsulotomy.

METHODS:

This prospective, randomized, pilot study comprised 17 eyes from 11 patients (7 men) with a mean age of 65.82±10.64 years (range: 51 to 79 years). All patients received a Crystalens AT-50AO (Bausch & Lomb) accommodating IOL after femtosecond laser refractive cataract surgery using either a 5.5-mm capsulotomy (5.5-mm group; 9 eyes) or 6.0-mm capsulotomy (6.0-mm group; 8 eyes). Near and distance visual acuities, manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE), and IOL tilt and decentration were evaluated 1 year postoperatively.

RESULTS:

No significant differences were noted between groups for postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity, uncorrected near visual acuity, distance-corrected near visual acuity, and MRSE. Vertical and horizontal tilt were significantly higher in the 6.0-mm group than in the 5.5-mm group (
P
=.014 and
P
=.015, respectively). No significant difference was observed between groups regarding IOL decentration.

CONCLUSIONS:

A 5.5-mm capsulotomy created with a femtosecond laser is associated with less IOL tilt and therefore may be superior to a 6.0-mm capsulotomy when implanting a single-optic accommodating IOL.
Evaluating the Speed of Visual Recovery Following Thin-flap LASIK With a Femtosecond Laser
Authors: Durrie Daniel S. , Brinton Jason P. , Avila Michele R. , Stahl Erin D.
Published: September 2012

PURPOSE:

To investigate the speed of visual recovery following myopic thin-flap LASIK with a femtosecond laser.

METHODS:

This pilot study prospectively evaluated 20 eyes from 10 patients who underwent bilateral simultaneous LASIK with the Femto LDV Crystal Line femtosecond laser (Ziemer Ophthalmic Systems AG) used to create a circular flap of 9.0-mm diameter and 110-μm thickness followed by photoablation with the Allegretto Wave Eye-Q (WaveLight AG) excimer laser. Binocular and monocular uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), monocular contrast sensitivity, and a patient questionnaire were evaluated during the first hours, 1 day, and 1 month postoperatively.

RESULTS:

For monocular UDVA, 100% of eyes were 20/40 at 1 hour and 100% were 20/25 at 4 hours. For binocular UDVA, all patients achieved 20/32 by 30 minutes and 20/20 by 4 hours. Low frequency contrast sensitivity returned to preoperative baseline by 1 hour (
P
=.73), and showed a statistically significant improvement over baseline by 4 hours (
P
=.01). High frequency monocular contrast sensitivity returned to preoperative baseline by 4 hours (
P
=.48), and showed a statistically significant improvement by 1 month (
P
=.04). At 2 and 4 hours, 50% and 100% of patients, respectively, indicated that they would feel comfortable driving.

CONCLUSIONS:

Visual recovery after thin-flap femtosecond LASIK is rapid, occurring within the first few hours after surgery.
A Lagrangian study tracing water parcel origins in the Canary Upwelling System
Authors: Mason Evan , Colas Francois , Pelegrí Josep L.
Published: September 2012

The regional ocean circulation within the Canary Upwelling System between 31°N and 35°N is studied using numerical tools. Seasonal mean and near-instantaneous velocity fields from a previously-generated climatological Regional Ocean Modelling System (ROMS) solution of the Canary Basin are used to force a series of offline Lagrangian particle-tracking experiments. The primary objective is to identify the pathways through which water parcels arrive at the upwelling region north of Cape Ghir. Examining year-long pathways, the Azores Current contributes over 80% of particles annually, of which a large proportion arrive directly from offshore (from the northwest), while others travel along the shelf and slope from the Gulf of Cadiz. The remaining ~20% originate within the Gulf of Cadiz or come from the south, although the southern contribution is only significant in autumn and winter. When season-long pathways are considered, the alongshore contributions become increasingly important: northern contributions reach 40% in spring and summer, while southern values exceed 35% in winter. This study also shows that coastal upwelling changes both spatially and temporally. Upwelling becomes intensified near Cape Beddouza, with most upwelling occurring within ~40 km from shore although significant values may reach as far as 120 km offshore north of Cape Beddouza; at these locations the offshore integrated upwelling reaches as much as 4 times the offshore Ekman transport. In the Cape Beddouza area (32°N to 33°N), upwelling is negligible in February but intensifies in autumn, reaching as much as 3 times the offshore Ekman transport.
Changes in the interannual variability of the tropical Pacific as a response to an equatorial Atlantic forcing
Authors: Martín-Rey Marta , Polo Irene , Rodríguez-Fonseca Belén , Kucharski Fred
Published: September 2012

Previous studies have reported that the tropical Atlantic has had an influence on tropical Pacific interannual variability since the 1970s. This variability is studied in the present work, using simulations from a coupled model in the Indo-Pacific but with observed sea surface temperature (SST) prescribed over the Atlantic. The interannual variability is compared with that from a control simulation in which climatological SSTs are prescribed over the Atlantic. Differences in the Pacific mean state and in its variability are found in the forced simulation as a response to a warming in the equatorial Atlantic, characterized by a cooler background state and an increase in the variability over the tropical Pacific. A striking result is that the principal modes of tropical Pacific SST interannual variability show significant differences before and after the 1970s, providing new evidence of the Atlantic influence on the Pacific Ocean. Significant cooling (warming) in the equatorial Atlantic could have caused anomalous winds in the central-easter Pacific during the summer since 1970s. The thermocline depth also seems to be altered, triggering the dynamical processes involved in the development of El Niño (La Niña) phenomenon in the following winter. An increase in frequency of Niño and Niña events favouring the Central Pacific (CP) ones is observed in the last three decades. Further analyses using coupled models are still necessary to help us to understand the causes of this inter-basin connection.
Salinity intrusion and convective mixing in the Atlantic Equatorial Undercurrent
Authors: Claret Mariona , Rodríguez Rocío , Pelegrí Josep L.
Published: September 2012

This study investigates the advection of positive-salinity anomalies by the Equatorial Undercurrent (EUC) and their potential importance in inducing vertical convective mixing. For this purpose we use hydrographic and velocity observations taken in April 2010 along the western Atlantic equatorial ocean (32 to 43°W). The high-salinity EUC core is a few tens of metres thick and occupies the base of the surface mixed layer and the upper portion of the surface thermocline. It leads to high positive values of the vertical salinity gradient, which in many instances cause statically unstable conditions in otherwise well-stratified regions. The unstable regions result in vertical convection, hence favouring the occurrence of step-like features. We propose that this combination of horizontal advection and vertical-instability leads to a sequence of downward-convective events. As a result the EUC salinity is diffused down to a potential density of 26.43, or about 200 m deep. This mechanism is responsible for water-mass and salt downwelling in the equatorial Atlantic Ocean, with a potentially large influence on the tropical and subtropical cells.
Multiparametric analysis and validation in the western Mediterranean of three global OGCM hindcasts
Authors: Vidal-Vijande Enrique , Pascual Ananda , Barnier Bernard , Molines Jean Marc , Ferry Nicolas , Tintore Joaquín
Published: September 2012

We analyse a hierarchy of three 1/4° global numerical simulations (ORCA-025.G70 (G70), ORCA-025.G85 (G85) and GLORYS1V1 (GLORYS)) by assessing their performance against observational data in the western Mediterranean. When compared with the EN3_v2a temperature and salinity database, the simulations are capable of reproducing surface layer temperature interannual variability but G70 is inaccurate with intermediate and deep-layer trends. This aspect is improved by the increased vertical resolution of G85 and by data assimilation in GLORYS. Salinity is the most problematic parameter because of the imbalance of the freshwater budget derived from inaccuracies in the atmospheric forcing parameters. Surface salinity restoring is needed in order to avoid salinity drift and inaccurate sea-level trends. G70, with a stronger relaxation, has a lower trend closer to altimetric measurements than G85. Mean surface circulation is well reproduced for relatively large-scale signals. We further show that G85 and GLORYS provide evidence of the 2004-2005 and 2005-2006 deep convection events in the Gulf of Lion. Finally, transports through the main straits of the western Mediterranean are correct in order of magnitude, direction and seasonal cycle when compared with observations. This study contributes to the improvement of the ORCA hierarchy of simulations and points out the strengths and weaknesses of these simulations in the Mediterranean Sea.
Performance of modern tide gauges: towards mm-level accuracy
Authors: Martín Míguez Belén , Testut Laurent , Wöppelmann Guy
Published: September 2012

Considerable efforts are being made worldwide to upgrade tide gauge networks using new technologies. Because of the unique location of the Kerguelen Islands, the measurement of sea level there has received particular attention, with up to four systems equipped with modern sensors functioning simultaneously (two pressure tide gauges, a radar tide gauge, and a GPS-equipped buoy). We analysed and compared the sea level data obtained with these systems from 2003 to 2010, together with a time series of tide pole observations. This is the first time that a multi-comparison study with tide gauges has been undertaken over such a long time span and that the stability of modern radar tide gauges has been examined. The multi-comparison enabled us to evaluate the performance of the tide gauges in several frequency ranges, identify errors and estimate their magnitude. The drift of the pressure sensors (up to 8.0 mm/yr) was found to be one of the most relevant sources of systematic error. Other sources of difference such as clock drift, scale error and different locations of the instruments were also detected. After correcting the time series of sea level for these errors we estimated an upper bound for the radar instrumental error in field condition at ~0.3 cm.
A new space technology for ocean observation: the SMOS mission
Authors: Font Jordi , Ballabrera-Poy Joaquim , Camps Adriano , Corbella Ignasi , Duffo Núria , Duran Israel , Emelianov Mikhail , Enrique Luis , Fernández Pere , Gabarró Carolina , González Cristina , González Verónica , Gourrion Jérôme , Guimbard Sébastien , Hoareau Nina , Julià Agustí , Kalaroni Sofia , Konstantinidou Anna , Aretxabaleta Alfredo L. , Martínez Justino , Miranda Jorge , Monerris Alessandra , Montero Sergio , Mourre Baptiste , Pablos Miriam , Pérez Fernando , Piles Maria , Portabella Marcos , Sabia Roberto , Salvador Joaquín , Talone Marco , Torres Francesc , Turiel Antonio , Vall-Llossera Mercè , Villarino Ramón
Published: September 2012

Capability for sea surface salinity observation was an important gap in ocean remote sensing in the last few decades of the 20th century. New technological developments during the 1990s at the European Space Agency led to the proposal of SMOS (Soil Moisture and Ocean Salinity), an Earth explorer opportunity mission based on the use of a microwave interferometric radiometer, MIRAS (Microwave Imaging Radiometer with Aperture Synthesis). SMOS, the first satellite ever addressing the observation of ocean salinity from space, was successfully launched in November 2009. The determination of salinity from the MIRAS radiometric measurements at 1.4 GHz is a complex procedure that requires high performance from the instrument and accurate modelling of several physical processes that impact on the microwave emission of the ocean’s surface. This paper introduces SMOS in the ocean remote sensing context, and summarizes the MIRAS principles of operation and the SMOS salinity retrieval approach. It describes the Spanish SMOS high-level data processing centre (CP34) and the SMOS Barcelona Expert Centre on Radiometric Calibration and Ocean Salinity (SMOS-BEC), and presents a preliminary validation of global sea surface salinity maps operationally produced by CP34.
Las Organizaciones de la Sociedad Civil en México: de la invisibilidad al protagonismo
Authors: Collin Harguindeguy Laura , Molina Rafael
Published: September 2012

Se propone que la sociedad civil es producto de un doble desarrollo, la construcción histórica social de un sujeto social y su reconocimiento teórico. A partir del caso de México, se intenta demostrar como la inclusión de las Organizaciones de la Sociedad Civil, como protagonistas de la gobernanza ha incidido en el cambio de las características definitorias de la sociedad civil.
La burocracia mexicana como actor: construyendo las bases para su análisis empírico
Authors: Gault David Arellano
Published: September 2012

Empíricamente, el actor burocrático ha sido poco estudiado en México.  A la luz del dominio de un partido, en la era contemporánea este actor, en la escala federal, fue considerado básicamente un apéndice, una maquinaria obediente al régimen. La teoría de las camarillas ha perdurado desde entonces. Sin embargo, esta teoría es poco sostenible considerando lo que ha sucedido políticamente en los últimos años. Los servidores públicos que no pertenecen a una camarilla son una gran mayoría, como lo ha hecho claro la primigenia implementación de un servicio civil en la escala federal. Continuar en la construcción de las bases para el análisis del actor burocrático en México implica realizar un esfuerzo en dos vías, al menos: (1) comprender el papel político del aparato administrativo mexicano, más allá de las camarillas y (2) estudiar empíricamente el
Una corresponsal de guerra en Buenos Aires
Authors: Arnoux Magdalena
Published: September 2012

En este trabajo estudiamos las representaciones de la guerra del Paraguay que se desprenden de las cartas inéditas que Ignacia G. de Cáneva envió a Juan B. Alberdi durante los años que duró la contienda. Estas cartas presentan un doble interés. Por un lado, reflejan una mirada crítica de la guerra desde la perspectiva de una mujer que pertenece a la élite porteña y que comparte la posición política de Alberdi. Por el otro, dan cuenta de una serie de operaciones discursivas que Cáneva debió elaborar con miras a afirmar el lugar de "cronista de guerra" que Alberdi parecía solicitarle. Así, las cartas ofician de marco para la pluralidad de discursos que convocan y ofrecen una versión de la guerra militante, indisociable de la relación de la autora con su destinatario. En este sentido, Cáneva defiende la posición paraguaya no solo por propia convicción sino porque la derrota de los aliados es la condición para que Alberdi vuelva al país. Del mismo modo, la pintura que ofrece de Mitre y de los  brasileros, a la vez que refleja los sentimientos del sector social del cual forma parte, constituye una versión de los personajes hecha a la medida de las pasiones de su interlocutor.
¡La gran polémica continúa!
Authors: Brezzo Liliana M.
Published: September 2012

En Paraguay, 1902 fue un año crucial desde la perspectiva historiográfica al saltar a la palestra la primera polémica sobre la guerra contra la Triple Alianza. Entre el 16 de octubre de aquel año y el 14 de febrero de 1903 el joven periodista Juan O’Leary, de poco más de veinte años y el prestigioso abogado Cecilio Báez mantendrán desde las páginas de los diarios La Patria  y El Cívico una controversia historiográfica inigualada. Este artículo da cuenta del contexto, de las epistemologías y de los argumentos que sustentaran uno y otro polemista; a continuación se examinan las consecuencias de la disputa en relación a la construcción de la memoria histórica paraguaya y de la actual práctica de la historia en ese país.
El macizo de la Guerra de la Triple Alianza como substrato de la identidad paraguaya
Authors: Capdevila Luc
Published: September 2012

Ce texte propose un modèle interprétatif de la construction d’un tissu symbolique fondé sur une représentation de la guerre de la Triple Alliance qui a fait du Paraguay un pays mémoire. Il s’agira de présenter les différentes conjonctures culturelles au cours desquelles les individus, la société et l’État se sont interrogés sur la transmission du souvenir de la guerre, l’écriture de son histoire et ont inventé une tradition.
Imágenes en guerra: La Guerra del Paraguay y las tradiciones visuales en el Río de la Plata
Authors: Amigo Roberto
Published: September 2012

Este ensayo  propone un dialogo entre los diversos estilos y técnicas de la iconografía de la Guerra del Paraguay, así estudia a cuatro pintores Cándido López, Adolf Methfessel, José Ignacio Garmendia y Modesto González para comprender la diversidad visual en la representación de la guerra y su relación con al construcción del estado moderno
Los partidos políticos y su replanteamiento como actores políticos en la democracia mexicana del siglo XXI
Authors: Cazarín Martínez Angélica
Published: September 2012

El propósito del artículo se centra en el papel de los partidos políticos como actores fundamentales del sistema político democrático, actores que desde su nacimiento continúan siendo hasta hoy, la única expresión legítima de los grupos organizados de la sociedad. Son todavía actores insustituibles, aunque no necesariamente eficaces y eficientes en el escenario político actual, con ésta afirmación no se pretende restar importancia a la emergencia social a través de ONG’s y otros causes de expresión social; sin embargo; todavía los partidos políticos en las democracias desempeñan importantes tareas, y en los Estados no democráticos tienen también ciertas finalidades. Se ha dicho, no sin razón, que el Estado moderno es un Estado de partidos por el lugar central que ocupan no sólo en la integración de los órganos de representación y de gobierno, sino también por sus funciones de intermediación entre el Estado y la sociedad civil.Se toma como referencia particular en el análisis de la crisis de los partidos, el caso mexicano en la medida en que permite un acercamiento al contexto de la crisis de representatividad y el distanciamiento cada vez más evidente entre Estado y ciudadanía.
La Jura de la Constitución de 1824 en los pueblos nahuas de la jurisdicción de San Juan de los Llanos, Puebla
Authors: Gómez García Lidia E.
Published: September 2012

In 1812 the Court of Cadiz launched a new Reform with the particular goal of removing the institutions of the Indian Republic. This proposal of Reform caused a strong reaction from the elites in power in San Juan de los Llanos. The advent of the Reform, like it happened in the 16th C., caused the rise of a new ruling class, which later played a leading role in the establishment of a new order. The resistance offered by the indigenous elites led to a negotiation with the new ruling class. This negotiation allowed the indigenous people to share a role into the new order. This process sheds light on the way the new Ayuntamientos Constitucionales, in places where indigenous presence was strong, were established.
Los actores locales de la modernidad a finales del siglo XIX: expositores poblanos en las exhibiciones mundiales.
Authors: Herrera Feria María de Lourdes
Published: September 2012

The research on elements and ways in which Mexico and its regions participated in the exhibitions is a valuable inventory of natural and human resources as well as of social, scientific and technical progress; so far, historical studies on the subject focused on the actions of elites located in the central government of the country and neglected the regional specificities in the periphery of the central power. In this paper, we are interested in presenting contribution of the State of Puebla to the Mexican pavilions at the international exhibitions and the participation of local actors in this collective enterprise. Our sources come from the Branch for the Promotion of the National Archives and public archives from the State of Puebla.
La Guerra del Paraguay como problema historiográfico
Authors: Crespo Horacio
Published: September 2012

El tema de este artículo es la obra de Ramón J. Cárcano acerca de los orígenes de la Guerra del Paraguay y su inserción en el contexto de la historiografía sobre esta contienda. La guerra ha sido objeto de apreciables investigaciones, punto nodal de fuertes controversias ideológicas y políticas, foco de sensibles nudos del nacionalismo de varios de los países participantes, y se asiste a un renovado interés por el tema. El libro de Cárcano Guerra del Paraguay. Orígenes y causas (consideramos en este trabajo sólo el tomo inicial dedicado a causas y orígenes de la guerra, y no los siguientes, dedicados al proceso bélico) es una prolongación de la cuestión central de su trabajo historiográfico, dedicado al período de la conformación definitiva del estado nacional argentino, entre Caseros y Pavón. Para Cárcano la Guerra del Paraguay se entrelaza inextricablemente con los problemas de la organización nacional argentina expresada a través de la lucha facciosa, especialmente en ambas orillas del Plata. El autor organiza las causas de la conflagración en una visión de larga duración, desde el origen más lejano situado en la disputa entre España y Portugal por descubrimientos y conquistas desde el viaje mismo de Colón hasta los procesos de la Independencia y, finalmente, la coyuntura inmediata.
Alberdi y el Brasil en los escritos del Ciclo de la Guerra del Paraguay: las funciones de una visión en bloque
Authors: Pagliai Lucila
Published: September 2012

El Imperio del Brasil ocupa un lugar significativo en los escritos incluso inéditos de Juan Bautista Alberdi. Centrándose en su producción del Ciclo de la Guerra del Paraguay y especialmente en las cartas que durante ese período dirigió al paraguayo Gregorio Benites, representante de su país ante las Cortes europeas, este trabajo analiza el modo de inscripción de la presencia del Brasil en el discurso alberdiano. El enfoque es el de la política del texto que apunta a crear una imagen unívoca y monolítica del Segundo Imperio y sus ideólogos, con el objetivo de lograr en la dirigencia y en la opinión pública europea y norteamericana un efecto pragmático favorable a la causa paraguaya.
La nación desde los actores locales: Actores políticos en la evolución de la política agrarista de alcance nacional. 1912-1938
Authors: Torres Mariano
Published: September 2012

Este es un análisis preliminar de la manera en que surgieron y se desarrollaron, hasta coincidir, dos fenómenos de gran importancia en la conformación del Estado mexicano pos revolucionario: la movilización campesina, inicialmente limitada y regional, y la formación de las burocracias que, al amparo de leyes emitidas circunstancialmente, podrán consolidar la nueva estructura de poder.
En 1968 la mayoría de los uruguayos fuimos jóvenes: o la entrada en disidencia de una generación
Authors: Ferraro-Osorio María
Published: September 2012

En Uruguay, el año 1968 marca profundos cambios en la vida económica, política, sindical y estudiantil, determinando un antes y un después en la historia del país. Es el año de todas las disidencias: políticas, culturales, de costumbres, etc. y se acentúa al mismo tiempo el debate sobre las posibilidades de una revolución socialista en el Uruguay. El estudio de ese año particular en Uruguay se inserta en la temática del conflicto en el mundo hispánico relacionado con el Otro y con el Poder, con el surgimiento de disidencias ideológicas y políticas que cuestionan la ortodoxia tradicional uruguaya monopolizada por los dos partidos tradicionales, el Colorado (o batllismo) y el Blanco (Partido Nacional). Por último, del conflicto surge también la construcción del “enemigo interior” que servir­á de pretexto para seguir adelante con la implementación de una economía cada vez más dependiente de intereses oligárquicos e internacionales al tiempo que se extiende la represión a toda la población, llegando al paroxismo del golpe de estado de 1973 que va a generar una enorme deuda al día de hoy no saldadas en cuanto a los derechos humanos.
Les pardos vénézuéliens, hétérodoxes ou défenseurs de l’ordre social?
Authors: Langue Frédérique
Published: September 2012

Il s’agit ici de reconsidérer la vision qu’offrent de cet “état”/estamento aussi bien l’historiographie vénézolaniste classique que l’historiographie plus novatrice de ces dernières années, et de poursuivre la mise en évidence des pratiques effectives de la “pardocratie” évoquée pour ne pas dire dénoncée par le Libertador. Cette approche se centrera sur l’analyse du discours de certains métis les plus favorisés sur le plan social et en termes de représentation politique, et tout particulièrement des curanderos, avec, en contrepoint, les positions restrictives exprimées par les élites sociales et politiques, voire scientifiques du moment, à l’égard de ces catégories urbaines « subalternes ». Le contexte des célébrations et commémorations réalisées par les institutions académiques et culturelles des pays latino-américains concernés soulève en effet des interrogations très actuelles qu’il convient de prendre en considération, au-delà de l’imposition à cette occasion de nouvelles histoires officielles.
Conflit et dissidence religieuse dans les nouveaux foyers de spiritualité castillans : ermites, recluses et sectes illuministes face au Saint-Office (1510-1563)
Authors: Braguier Gouverneur Laurey
Published: September 2012

Cet article a pour objet de démontrer la naissance et le développement en Castille au XVIe siècle de nouveaux foyers de spiritualité jugés hétérodoxes par le clergé et l’Inquisition espagnole entre la fin du règne des Rois catholiques et les conclusions du Concile de Trente. Alors que l’Espagne vainc l’ultime bastion arabe en 1492 à Grenade et refonde une orthodoxie forte sous la tutelle du cardinal Cisneros pour permettre un nouvel élan religieux, trois foyers d’essence catholique : les ermites, les recluses et les illuminés, développent des rites et des pratiques religieuses fondés sur le recueillement, la pénitence et l’abandon, sans la présence d’un intercesseur ecclésiastique. Prônant une vie évangélique et un rapport direct avec la divinité, ils remettent en cause l’autorité des clercs et certains articles de foi. Ils attirent ainsi l’attention de l’Inquisition qui les perçoit comme des communautés marginales et des groupes dissidents. Notre recherche se propose donc de définir les modalités sociales, politiques et religieuses de ces nouveaux foyers de spiritualité au sein de la société et de l´Église espagnole, et de comprendre la nature du conflit qui les opposa près de vingt-cinq ans aux pouvoirs ecclésiastique et inquisitorial.
“¿Vendidos al enemigo?”: Disidentes y renegados del comunismo español (1921-1956)
Authors: Ruiz Galbete Marta
Published: September 2012

De la esperanza que supuso el triunfo de la primera revolución proletaria de la historia en la Rusia de 1917 y el “comunismo heroico” de los primeros tiempos en que la Tercera Internacional se concebía como el partido mundial de la revolución hasta las grandes purgas de Moscú (1936-1937) o los procesos políticos de las democracias populares (1947-1949), el comunismo mundial vivió una transformación gradual que también se refleja en el PC español. El presente artículo no sólo explica los mecanismos de este proceso generalmente conocido como estalinización, sino que presta especial atención a aquellos militantes que, entre 1925 y 1945, se desviaron por diversas razones de la línea política “correcta” o acabaron rechazando la ortodoxia marcada en Moscú. Automáticamente convertidos en enemigos del partido y la revolución, en traidores, herejes, renegados o vendidos, algunos mantendrán su antigua fe tras su expulsión del partido. Otros llegarán a romper tan radicalmente con ella que, una vez instalados en clima belicoso de la Guerra fría, no dudarán en renegarla y combatirla incluso si ello implicaba dar armas a sus antiguos enemigos.