bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linking-In through Education? Exploring the Educational Question in Africa from the Perspective of Flows and (dis) Connections
Authors: Kaag Mayke
Published: February 2018

Education is the fourth Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) and considered an important gateway to many other SDGs being achieved. Education is, however, frequently interpreted in terms of its technical aspects, i.e., furthering skills and knowledge and strengthening human capital for promoting development. By contrast, this paper focuses less on this technical aspect and instead analyses the current educational landscape in Africa as a field in which flows of investment, ideas, and people influence connections between Africans and the rest of the world. As an effect of the structural adjustment programs in the 1980s, public spending on education in many African countries went down, allowing private education initiatives to spring up. These were, for a large part, financed by Western and Arab countries. Over the last fifteen years, investment flows in education from emerging global powers like China, Brazil, Malaysia, and Turkey have contributed to an increasingly diversified educational landscape in Africa. This paper argues that these investments not only allow Africans to improve their educational levels but that these diverse forms of education also have an influence on connections and social orientations in African societies. Educational programs go together with specific worldviews. In addition, people develop their social networks through educational trajectories. Both orientations and connections influence people’s choices and opportunities in their further lives, and thus individual and societal development. Interestingly, often investments in education by external parties are not isolated endeavors, but also used as a means to get linked-in in local societies for such diverse purposes as religion or business interests. Illustrating my argument with examples taken from my research on Gulf charities and on Turkish schools in Africa, I will explore how the new connectivities that come with the changing educational landscape in Africa shape (possible) local development trajectories in the current era of intensified globalization characterized by intensified flows of capital, people, and ideas.
Greener through Grey? Boosting Sustainable Development through a Philosophical and Social Media Analysis of Ageing
Authors: Carella Valentina , Monachesi Paola
Published: February 2018

Sustainable development is challenged by the exponential growth of the older population, which threatens available resources. In this paper, we question current negative views in the ageing debate by considering the ageing process from a philosophical perspective. By focusing on frailty, a feature that is usually associated with old age, we show that ageing can be the means to highlight the constitutive vulnerable condition of human beings which makes them exposed to others. As a result, we redefine the relationship between the human and the natural world as one of co-constitution and reciprocal sustenance and promotion. We move away from the current approach to sustainable development and we suggest a vision in which the concept of care becomes central. We claim, on the basis of social media behavioral analysis, that the elderly could be involved in care practices of other human beings and especially of nature, contributing actively to sustainable development.
Absent Agroecology Aid: On UK Agricultural Development Assistance Since 2010
Authors: Pimbert Michel , Moeller Nina
Published: February 2018

Using figures published by the UK Department of International Development (DFID), this study finds that despite overwhelming evidence in favour of agroecology as a mode of agricultural development able to address crucial aspects of the interrelated crises facing human societies, UK development aid barely supports agroecology. Based on the most generous interpretation, this study shows for the first time that aid for agroecological projects is less than 5% of agricultural aid and less than 0.5% of total UK aid budget since 2010. Since 1 January 2010, no funds at all have been directed at or been committed to projects with the main focus on development or promotion of agroecological practices. Minor funds have been directed at projects which include some activities promoting agroecology at the most basic level of resource efficiency (e.g., conservation agriculture). By largely supporting industrial and Green Revolution agriculture, UK Aid priorities contribute very little to the transition towards social-ecological sustainability in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
The impact of new forms of large-scale general practice provider collaborations on England’s NHS: a systematic review
Authors: Pettigrew Luisa M , Kumpunen Stephanie , Mays Nicholas , Rosen Rebecca , Posaner Rachel
Published: February 2018

Background

Over the past decade, collaboration between general practices in England to form new provider networks and large-scale organisations has been driven largely by grassroots action among GPs. However, it is now being increasingly advocated for by national policymakers. Expectations of what scaling up general practice in England will achieve are significant.

Aim

To review the evidence of the impact of new forms of large-scale general practice provider collaborations in England.

Design and setting

Systematic review.

Method

Embase, MEDLINE, Health Management Information Consortium, and Social Sciences Citation Index were searched for studies reporting the impact on clinical processes and outcomes, patient experience, workforce satisfaction, or costs of new forms of provider collaborations between general practices in England.

Results

A total of 1782 publications were screened. Five studies met the inclusion criteria and four examined the same general practice networks, limiting generalisability. Substantial financial investment was required to establish the networks and the associated interventions that were targeted at four clinical areas. Quality improvements were achieved through standardised processes, incentives at network level, information technology-enabled performance dashboards, and local network management. The fifth study of a large-scale multisite general practice organisation showed that it may be better placed to implement safety and quality processes than conventional practices. However, unintended consequences may arise, such as perceptions of disenfranchisement among staff and reductions in continuity of care.

Conclusion

Good-quality evidence of the impacts of scaling up general practice provider organisations in England is scarce. As more general practice collaborations emerge, evaluation of their impacts will be important to understand which work, in which settings, how, and why.
Muscle Strength and Muscle Endurance During the First Year of Treatment of Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis: A Prospective Study
Authors: Alexanderson Helene , Regardt Malin , Ottosson Christina , Alemo Munters Li , Dastmalchi Maryam , Dani Lara , Lundberg Ingrid E.
Published: February 2018

Objective.

To investigate muscle impairment (isometric and dynamic) and disease activity during the first year after diagnosis of polymyositis (PM) and dermatomyositis (DM), and to study the relationship between muscle impairment, patient-reported health, and disease activity.

Methods.

Seventy-two patients enrolled in the Swedish Myositis Register, 2003–2010, were followed prospectively. The Manual Muscle test (MMT-8; isometric muscle strength), the Functional Index of myositis test (FI-2; dynamic, repetitive muscle function), and disease activity (6-item core set) were retrieved at the time of diagnosis, and after 6 and 12 months. Self-reported health (Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36; SF-36) was retrieved at 12 months.

Results.

At the time of diagnosis, median (Q1–Q3) for the FI-2 was 27.2% (7.9–60.5%) of maximal score compared to 93.8% (92.5–98.8%) of maximal MMT-8. At 12 months, the FI-2 and the MMT-8 improved to 29.4% (16.5–60.7%; p < 0.05) and 96.1% (88.1–99.4%), respectively (p < 0.01). At 12 months, 45% of patients improved ≥ 20%, and 27% worsened ≥ 20% in FI-2 score, while 10% improved ≥ 20% in MMT-8. Physician’s global visual analog scale (VAS), Health Assessment Questionnaire, and creatine phosphokinase levels improved significantly at 12 months (p < 0.05–0.001) while patient’s global and extramuscular VAS remained unchanged. The SF-36 physical function correlated strongly with the FI-2 (rs = 0.74; CI 0.55–0.85) and moderately with the MMT (rs = 0.54; CI 0.27–0.73), with lower correlations between muscle function and other SF-36 domains.

Conclusion.

Patients with PM/DM were characterized by impaired dynamic repetitive muscle function (DRMF) that correlated well with patient-reported physical function. Assessment of DRMF adds information regarding muscle impairment in these patients.
Gaps in Diagnosis and Treatment of Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Patients with Psoriatic Disease: An International Multicenter Study
Authors: Eder Lihi , Harvey Paula , Chandran Vinod , Rosen Cheryl F. , Dutz Jan , Elder James T. , Rahman Proton , Ritchlin Christopher T. , Rohekar Sherry , Hayday Richard , Barac Snezana , Feld Joy , Zisman Devy , Gladman Dafna D.
Published: February 2018

Objective.

We aimed to estimate the proportion of underdiagnosis and undertreatment of cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) in an international multicenter cohort of patients with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Methods.

A cross-sectional analysis was conducted of patients with psoriatic disease from the International Psoriasis and Arthritis Research Team cohort. The presence of modifiable CVRF [diabetes, hypertension (HTN), dyslipidemia, smoking, elevated body mass index, and central obesity] and the use of appropriate therapies for HTN and dyslipidemia were determined. The 10-year CV risk was calculated according to the Framingham Risk Score. Physician adherence with guidelines for the treatment of dyslipidemia and HTN was assessed. Regression analysis was used to assess predictors of undertreatment of HTN and dyslipidemia.

Results.

A total of 2254 patients (58.9% PsA, 41.1% psoriasis) from 8 centers in Canada, the United States, and Israel were included. Their mean age was 52 ± 13.8 years and 53% were men. Of the patients, 87.6% had at least 1 modifiable CVRF, 45.1% had HTN, 49.4% dyslipidemia, 13.3% diabetes, 75.3% were overweight or obese, 54.3% central obesity, and 17.3% were current smokers. We found 59.2% of patients with HTN and 65.6% of patients with dyslipidemia were undertreated. Undertreatment was associated with younger age (≤ 50 yrs), having psoriasis, and male sex.

Conclusion.

In real-world settings, a large proportion of patients with psoriasis and PsA were underdiagnosed and undertreated for HTN and dyslipidemia. Strategies to improve the management of CVRF in psoriatic patients are warranted.
Sclerostin and Antisclerostin Antibody Serum Levels Predict the Presence of Axial Spondyloarthritis in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Luchetti Michele Maria , Ciccia Francesco , Avellini Chiara , Benfaremo Devis , Guggino Giuliana , Farinelli Alessia , Ciferri Monia , Rossini Matteo , Svegliati Silvia , Spadoni Tatiana , Bolognini Laura , Fava Giammarco , Mosca Piergiorgio , Gesuita Rosaria , Skrami Edlira , Triolo Giovanni , Gabrielli Armando
Published: February 2018

Objective.

The early diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)-associated spondyloarthritis (SpA/IBD) in patients affected by IBD represents a major topic in clinical practice; in particular, to date there are no available serum biomarkers revealing the presence of joint inflammation in these patients. Sclerostin (SOST), an antagonist of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, and antisclerostin-immunoglobulin G (anti-SOST–IgG) have been recently studied in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) as a putative marker of disease activity.

Methods.

SOST and anti-SOST-IgG serum levels were assayed in 125 patients with IBD, 85 with axial or peripheral SpA, and in control groups (patients with AS and rheumatoid arthritis, and healthy individuals). The diagnostic performance in discriminating the presence of SpA/IBD was assessed for both candidate biomarkers.

Results.

Patients affected by SpA/IBD with axial involvement displayed significantly lower levels of SOST and higher levels of anti-SOST-IgG compared to patients with only peripheral arthritis, IBD, and controls. Moreover, SOST and anti-SOST-IgG serum levels were inversely correlated and were associated with the duration of articular symptoms. Both biomarkers showed good accuracy in predicting the presence of axial SpA in patients with IBD.

Conclusion.

We demonstrated that in patients with IBD, SOST and anti-SOST-IgG might represent novel biomarkers to assess the presence of axial joint involvement. Moreover, the development of anti-SOST-IgG and the subsequent decrease of SOST serum levels could play a role in the pathogenesis of SpA/IBD.
Advocacy of trafficking campaigns: A controversy story
Authors: Saiz-Echezarreta Vanesa , Alvarado María-Cruz , Gómez-Lorenzini Paulina
Published: February 2018

The construction, visualization, and stabilization of public problems require the mobilization of civil society groups concerned about these issues to actively engage in the demand for actions and policies. This paper explores the institutional campaigns against human trafficking and sexual exploitation in Spain between 2008 and 2017 and their role in helping to shape this issue as a matter of public concern. Our aim is to identify the ideological basis of these campaigns through their representations of predominant actors, which have been systematized to identify possible mistakes and to help determine more effective actions with a greater capacity for mobilization. We applied a mixed content analysis combined with a semiotic model to evaluate the presence or absence of the different actors and their relevance in each case. Several lines of discourse have been reiterated across the 50 campaigns analysed: Curbing the demand for prostitution as a priority objective; the centrality of victims in the representations; the role of the consumer of paid sex as an accomplice to the crime; and the correlation between prostitution and human trafficking. We will also examine how these issues relate to the broader dispute on the status of prostitution in Spain. This will require a conceptual shift away from educational and social-oriented communication towards the structural causes, collective responsibility and transformative justice frameworks.

La construcción, visibilización y estabilización de un problema público requiere de la movilización de colectivos ciudadanos interesados en el asunto, que actúen como un ente activo en la reclamación de acciones y políticas. Este artículo analiza las campañas contra la trata de personas con fines de explotación sexual en España (2008-2017) desde su contribución a la conformación de esta cuestión como un problema de carácter público. El objetivo es identificar los ejes ideológicos desde los que han operado estas campañas, a través de las representaciones que se han sistematizado de sus protagonistas para identificar posibles errores y orientar acciones de mayor eficiencia y capacidad movilizadora. Se ha aplicado un análisis de contenido mixto complementado con un análisis semiótico, considerando la presencia o ausencia de los distintos actores y su mayor o menor protagonismo en cada caso. En las cincuenta campañas analizadas se constata la reiteración de varias líneas discursivas: la prioridad en desincentivar la demanda de prostitución, la centralidad de las víctimas en la representación, la figura del demandante de sexo de pago como cómplice del delito y la equiparación de prostitución y trata. Son discursos que intervienen en una controversia más amplia sobre el estatuto de la prostitución en el país y que necesitan reorientarse, desde la educomunicación y la comunicación con fines sociales, hacia las causas estructurales, la responsabilidad colectiva y la denuncia transformadoras.
#TrumpenMexico. Transnational connective action on Twitter and the border wall dispute
Authors: Meneses María-Elena , Martín-del-Campo Alejandro , Rueda-Zárate Héctor
Published: February 2018

This article aims to identify how digital public opinion was articulated on Twitter during the visit of the Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump to Mexico City in 2016 by invitation from the Mexican government, which was preceded by the threat to construct a border wall that Mexico would pay for. Using a mixed methodology made up of computational methods such as data mining and social network analysis combined with content analysis, the authors identify conversational patterns and the structures of the net-works formed, beginning with this event involving the foreign policy of both countries that share a long border. The authors study the digital media practices and emotional frameworks these social network users employed to involve themselves in the controversial visit, marked by complex political, cultural and historical relations. The analysis of 352,203 tweets in two languages (English and Spanish), those most used in the conversations, opened the door to an understanding as to how transnational public opinion is articulated in connective actions detonated by newsworthy events in distinct cultural contexts, as well as the emotional frameworks that permeated the conversation, whose palpable differences show that Twitter is not a homogeneous universe, but rather a set of universes co-determined by sociocultural context.

El presente artículo busca identificar cómo se articuló la opinión pública digital en la red social Twitter durante la visita del entonces candidato republicano Donald Trump a la Ciudad de México en el año 2016 por invitación del gobierno mexicano que fue precedida de la amenaza de construir un muro fronterizo que pagaría México. Mediante una metodología mixta compuesta por métodos computacionales tales como minería de datos y análisis de redes sociales combinado con análisis de contenido se identifican los patrones de la conversación y las estructuras de redes que se conformaron a partir de este acontecimiento de la política exterior de ambas naciones que comparten una extensa frontera. Se estudiaron las prácticas mediáticas digitales y los encuadres emocionales con los cuales los usuarios de esta red social se involucraron en la controversial visita marcada por una compleja relación política, cultural e histórica. El análisis de 352.203 tuits en dos idiomas (inglés y español), los más utilizados en las conversaciones, permitió comprender cómo se articula la opinión pública transnacional en acciones conectivas detonadas por eventos noticiosos en contextos culturales distintos, así como los encuadres emocionales que permearon la conversación, cuyas diferencias palpables demuestran que cuando se habla de Twitter no se trata de un universo homogéneo, sino de un conjunto de universos codeterminados por el contexto sociocultural.
YouTuber videos and the construction of adolescent identity
Authors: Pérez-Torres Vanesa , Pastor-Ruiz Yolanda , Abarrou-Ben-Boubaker Sara
Published: February 2018

The main objective of this research is to analyze the content of YouTuber's videos that have the greatest impact on adolescents and their relationship with the construction of identity. The YouTube platform is one of the most commonly used by Spanish teenagers and around 70% of young people between 14 and 17 years of age prefer this network. YouTubers are perceived by young people as their equals, approachable people who share similar traits to their own, which facilitates rapid identification. A qualitative analysis of the content of 22 videos on the YouTube platform was carried out using the Atlas.ti program. The analysis led to several emerging codes related to the construction of adolescent personal identity. Most of the messages relating to personal identity were aimed at transmitting the self-impression of the YouTuber and the relationship of that self-impression with his gender identity, sexual orientation, and vocational identity. Also, family and peers appeared in the videos, especially as providers of social support. Teen followers include messages to support YouTubers, express their identification with the messages and use comment spaces to describe their own experiences, expressing the same concerns in the configuration of their identity. It is necessary to take into account this new space of interrelation to understand the development of young people’s identity.

El objetivo general de esta investigación consiste en analizar el contenido de los vídeos de los youtubers de mayor impacto entre los adolescentes y su relación con la construcción de la identidad. La plataforma YouTube es una de las más utilizadas por los adolescentes españoles, ya que alrededor del 70% de los jóvenes entre 14 y 17 años prefieren esta red. Los youtubers son percibidos por los jóvenes como sus iguales, personas cercanas que comparten rasgos similares a los suyos, lo que facilita la rápida identificación con ellos. Se ha realizado un análisis cualitativo del contenido de 22 vídeos de la plataforma YouTube mediante el programa Atlas.ti. El análisis ha dado lugar a varios códigos emergentes relacionados con la construcción de la identidad personal en la adolescencia. La mayoría de los mensajes sobre la identidad personal estaban orientados a transmitir la autodefinición que hace el youtuber sobre sí mismo y la relación de esa autoimagen con su identidad de género, orientación sexual e identidad vocacional. Además, la familia y los iguales aparecen en los vídeos, especialmente como proveedores de apoyo social. Los seguidores adolescentes incluyen mensajes de apoyo al youtuber, manifiestan su identificación con los mensajes y utilizan los espacios de comentarios para exponer sus experiencias personales, expresando las mismas inquietudes en la configuración de su identidad. Es necesario tener en cuenta este nuevo espacio de interrelación en la comprensión del desarrollo identitario de los jóvenes.
Gamification and transmedia for scientific promotion and for encouraging scientific careers in adolescents
Authors: Pérez-Manzano Antonio , Almela-Baeza Javier
Published: February 2018

The current growth in gamification-based applications, and especially in what is known as Digital Game-based Learning (DGBL), is providing new opportunities with considerable educational potential. In the present study, we report on the results of the progress of a project for developing a setting for a gamified website carried out ad hoc, complemented by transmedia resources and aimed at scientific promotion and the promotion of technological and scientific careers (S&T) in adolescents, who are at a stage in life when career preferences are established. At present, the decrease in S&T careers is one of the greatest problems for the society of technological development that we live in, where the number of professionals working in key areas for economic development and progress is declining. After completing a pre and post project participation survey, the results suggest a high level of efficiency achieved by projects of this type due to their online experimentation design, the knowledge of real cases of research activity, and the communication of positive scientific values and attitudes appropriate for the target population. The participants significantly increased their interest in the subject area, scientific professions, and research activity and their social benefits demonstrating the acquisition of positive attitudes towards scientific knowledge and skills.

En la actualidad la proliferación de aplicaciones basadas en gamificación y especialmente en el denominado Aprendizaje Digital Basado en Juegos (Digital Game-Based Learning, DGBL) abre un panorama de elevado potencial educativo. En el presente trabajo se muestran los resultados del desarrollo de un proyecto con el funcionamiento de un entorno web gamificado y realizado ad hoc, complementado con recursos transmedia y dirigido a la divulgación científica y al fomento de las vocaciones científico-tecnológicas (CyT) en adolescentes, siendo precisamente en este rango de edad donde se configura la preferencia vocacional. El descenso de vocaciones CyT supone uno de los mayores problemas actuales para la sociedad de desarrollo tecnológico en la que nos encontramos, con un descenso generalizado de profesionales en áreas claves para el desarrollo económico y de progreso. Tras la realización de una encuesta previa a la participación en el proyecto y la misma encuesta tras la realización del mismo, los resultados obtenidos indican la elevada eficacia de proyectos de este tipo, diseñados en base a la experimentación online, el conocimiento de situaciones reales de la actividad investigadora y la comunicación de valores y actitudes procientíficas de forma afín a la población objetivo. Los participantes aumentan significativamente su interés por la profesión científica, la actividad investigadora y su beneficio social manifestando la adquisición de conocimientos y destrezas procientíficas y poniendo de relieve su interés por la temática tratada.
From sMOOC to tMOOC, learning towards professional transference. ECO European Project
Authors: Osuna-Acedo Sara , Marta-Lazo Carmen , Frau-Meigs Divina
Published: February 2018

The evolution of MOOCs in the last decade has been constant and dynamic. The first cMOOC and xMOOC models eventually evolved into different postMOOC modalities, such as sMOOC, which conjugates interaction among students with a participation model based on social networks. This work is focused on carrying out a systematic review of the state-of-the-art scientific literature referred to the concept of MOOC and its diverse types. Moreover, in this article, a new generation associated to sMOOC is unveiled: the tMOOC (Transfer Massive Open Online Courses). The methodology of study is based on the content analysis of those categories resulting after compiling 707 entries from Web of Science, plus an in-depth study of the 70 articles which were quoted at least 10 times. In addition, a case study has been carried out from European ECO Project’s “sMOOC Step by Step”, as an example of innovative pedagogical model based on collaborative learning to train future e-teachers. The results of the analysis show the very recent –and still scarce– research on the different types of MOOCs, as well as the finding of a new modality based on pedagogical transformation, learning transference and intercreative talent. As a conclusion, the analysis of all key factors in the configuration of tMOOC has encouraged us to propose a new taxonomy based on the 10 T’s.

La evolución de los MOOC en la última década ha sido constante y dinámica. Como antecedentes, los primeros modelos de cMOOC y xMOOC se transforman en otras modalidades postMOOC, como los sMOOC, que conjugan la interacción entre los estudiantes con el modelo de participación implantado en las redes sociales. Este trabajo tiene como objetivo realizar una revisión sistemática del estado de la literatura científica sobre el concepto MOOC y sus distintas tipologías. En este artículo, se descubre una nueva generación asociada a los sMOOC, los tMOOC (Transfer Massive Open Online Courses). La metodología de estudio se basa en el análisis de contenido de las categorías resultantes en los 707 registros recogidos de Web of Science, profundizando en los 70 artículos que obtuvieron al menos diez citas. Además, se ha realizado el estudio de caso del sMOOC «Paso a paso» del Proyecto Europeo ECO, como modelo pedagógico innovador, centrado en el aprendizaje colaborativo para la formación de futuros e-teachers. Los resultados del análisis muestran la reciente y escasa investigación sobre los diferentes tipos de MOOC, así como el hallazgo de una nueva modalidad basada en la transformación pedagógica, la transferencia del aprendizaje y el talento intercreativo. Como conclusión, el análisis de todas las claves de la configuración del tMOOC nos lleva a proponer una nueva taxonomía basada en las 10 T’s.
Ask the Right Questions: What Do Non-Caregiving Adult Children Need From Health Care Providers?
Authors: Wells Munira , Kartoz Connie
Published: February 2018

Extended healthy life spans are a relatively recent phenomenon that increase the amount of time families spend with older adults in non-caregiving roles. As the emphasis of health care moves to population health and health prevention, nurses caring for older adults must be knowledgeable about this family life stage. To learn more about the lived experience of non-caregiving adult children, 16 non-caregiving adult children were interviewed. The purpose of the current article is to share what needs non-caregiving adult children have from the health care system as they obtain care for themselves and accompany their parent for health care visits. Content analysis of transcribed interviews revealed three main themes:
Lack of Holistic Care
,
Lack of Effective Communication,
and
Fragmented Care and Need for Better Care Management
. Participants suggested interventions that are patient- and family-centered and culturally safe. Nurses can use findings from the current study to research interventions using family-centered care strategies to improve health outcomes for older adults. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 44
(5), 26–31.]
Possibility of critical practice in computational design: applications on boundaries between public and private space
Authors: Kimmel Laurence
Published: February 2018

La conception par ordinateur permet de créer des surfaces transformatives complexes qui tendent à gommer les limites entre espaces de différents statuts. Cet article porte sur les possibilités de développer une pratique artistique et critique de la conception par ordinateur, permettant ainsi l’émergence d’événements dans le système en transformation, et donc de l’« affect ». La possibilité de jouer sur les limites entre espaces de différents statuts nécessite de maintenir les notions d’espace public et d’espace privé (les technologies et leurs capacités à connecter tout espace dans un même réseau économique tend à effacer ces différences) de manière à permettre un entrelacement créatif de ces derniers. La possibilité de transformer ces limites pose la question de l’entité légitime pour contrôler cette évolution. En maintenant une distance avec les extrêmes que sont la liberté totale tendant vers un soi-disant ‘Bien ultime’ d’un côté, et une liberté niée par une « loi » excessive de l’autre côté, l’article présente des manières dont une communauté pourrait reprendre le contrôle de son environnement grâce aux nouvelles technologies, tant qu’une « loi commune » pour la vie publique est respectée. La manière dont les paramètres et algorithmes pourraient être ajustés afin de fonctionner selon ce modèle est utopique mais théoriquement faisable dans le futur selon les théories de l’« émergence ». Le maintien de la possibilité d’événements et de singularités créatives dans le système maintient un espace pour la pensée critique en architecture, prenant en compte la mémoire et la volonté d’un futur meilleur.
Comparison of Cameriere’s and Demirjian’s Methods of Age Estimation among Children in Kerala: A Pilot Study
Authors: Nair Vivek Velayudhan , Thomas Sunila , Thomas Jincy , Fathima Shabna , Thomas Deena , Thomas Tomson
Published: February 2018

The aim was to compare age estimation using Cameriere’s and Demirjian’s methods to chronologic age in children with mixed dentition in a rural population of Kerala. The present study comprised of 10 subjects of age range 7-12 years. Dental age was assessed using Cameriere’s and Demirjian’s methods and was compared to the chronologic age. Panoramic radiographs were used for assessment of dental age. Data were analysed using paired t-test. The mean of difference obtained was 0.92 and the pvalue was 0.172 which showed insignificant difference between the two methods. Cameriere’s method showed a positive linear correlation (0.6393) with chronologic age and was statistically significant (P=0.0171) , whereas Demirjian’s method showed a negative correlation (–0.7598) and was statistically insignificant (P=0.9967). The present study indicated that Cameriere’s method is reliable for age estimation in our population and is more accurate than Demirjian’s method.
Rifaximin Reduces Markers of Inflammation and Bacterial 16S rRNA in Zambian Adults with Hepatosplenic Schistosomiasis: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Sinkala Edford , Zyambo Kanekwa , Besa Ellen , Kaonga Patrick , Nsokolo Bright , Kayamba Violet , Vinikoor Michael , Zulu Rabison , Bwalya Martin , Foster Graham R. , Kelly Paul
Published: February 2018

Cirrhosis is the dominant cause of portal hypertension globally but may be overshadowed by hepatosplenic schistosomiasis (HSS) in the tropics. In Zambia, schistosomiasis seroprevalence can reach 88% in endemic areas. Bacterial translocation (BT) drives portal hypertension in cirrhosis contributing to mortality but remains unexplored in HSS. Rifaximin, a non-absorbable antibiotic may reduce BT. We aimed to explore the influence of rifaximin on BT, inflammation, and fibrosis in HSS. In this phase II open-label trial (ISRCTN67590499), 186 patients with HSS in Zambia were evaluated and 85 were randomized to standard care with or without rifaximin for 42 days. Changes in markers of inflammation, BT, and fibrosis were the primary outcomes. BT was measured using plasma 16S rRNA, lipopolysaccharide-binding protein, and lipopolysaccharide, whereas hyaluronan was used to measure fibrosis. Tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFR1) and soluble cluster of differentiation 14 (sCD14) assessed inflammation. 16S rRNA reduced from baseline (median 146 copies/µL, interquartile range [IQR] 9, 537) to day 42 in the rifaximin group (median 63 copies/µL, IQR 12, 196), P < 0.01. The rise in sCD14 was lower (P < 0.01) in the rifaximin group (median rise 122 ng/mL, IQR-184, 783) than in the non-rifaximin group (median rise 832 ng/mL, IQR 530, 967). TNFR1 decreased (P < 0.01) in the rifaximin group (median -39 ng/mL IQR-306, 563) but increased in the non-rifaximin group (median 166 ng/mL, IQR 3, 337). Other markers remained unaffected. Rifaximin led to a reduction of inflammatory markers and bacterial 16S rRNA which may implicate BT in the inflammation in HSS.
The Dynamics of Liver Function Test Abnormalities after Malaria Infection: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Woodford John , Shanks G. Dennis , Griffin Paul , Chalon Stephan , McCarthy James S.
Published: February 2018

Liver dysfunction has long been recognized as a clinical feature of malaria. We have observed delayed elevation in the transaminase portion of liver function tests (LFTs) after treatment in some participants undergoing induced blood stage malaria infection. We sought to determine whether similar LFT elevations occur after naturally acquired infection. We performed a retrospective audit of confirmed cases of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax in Queensland, Australia, from 2006 to 2016. All LFT results from malaria diagnosis until 28 days after diagnosis were collected with demographic and clinical information to describe longitudinal changes. The timing of peak LFT elevations was classified as early (0–3 days), delayed (4–11 days), or late (12–28 days) with respect to the day of diagnosis. Among 861 cases with LFT evaluated, an elevated bilirubin level was identified in 12.4% (N = 107/861), whereas elevated alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase levels were observed in 15.1% (N = 130/861) and 14.8% (N = 127/861) of cases, respectively. All peak bilirubin results occurred in the early period, whereas ALT elevations were biphasic, with elevations in the early and delayed periods, with 35.4% (N = 46/130) of cases delayed. Univariate and paired stepwise logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate factors associated with the incidence and timing of transaminase elevation. A raised ALT level at diagnosis was strongly associated with the timing of transaminase elevation. No other demographic, parasitic, or treatment factors were associated. Liver function test abnormalities are likely an inherent although variable aspect of human malaria, and individual-specific factors may confer susceptibility to hepatocyte injury.
Biomass burning CCN enhance the dynamics of a mesoscale convective system over the La Plata Basin: a numerical approach
Authors: Camponogara Gláuber , Faus da Silva Dias Maria Assunção , Carrió Gustavo G.
Published: February 2018

Abstract. High aerosol loadings are discharged into the atmosphere every year by biomass burning in the Amazon and central Brazil during the dry season (July–December). These particles, suspended in the atmosphere, can be carried via a low-level jet toward the La Plata Basin, one of the largest hydrographic basins in the world. Once they reach this region, the aerosols can affect mesoscale convective systems (MCSs), whose frequency is higher during the spring and summer over the basin. The present study is one of the first that seeks to understand the microphysical effects of biomass burning aerosols from the Amazon Basin on mesoscale convective systems over the La Plata Basin. We performed numerical simulations initialized with idealized cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) profiles for an MCS case observed over the La Plata Basin on 21 September 2010. The experiments reveal an important link between CCN number concentration and MCS dynamics, where stronger downdrafts were observed under higher amounts of aerosols, generating more updraft cells in response. Moreover, the simulations show higher amounts of precipitation as the CCN concentration increases. Despite the model's uncertainties and limitations, these results represent an important step toward the understanding of possible impacts on the Amazon biomass burning aerosols over neighboring regions such as the La Plata Basin.
Changes
in
the
aerosol
direct
radiative
forcing
from
2001
to
2015:
observational
constraints
and
regional
mechanisms
Authors: Paulot Fabien , Paynter David , Ginoux Paul , Naik Vaishali , Horowitz Larry
Published: February 2018

Abstract. We present observation and model-based estimates of the changes in the direct shortwave effect of aerosols under clear-sky (SDRECS) from 2001 to 2015. Observation-based estimates are obtained from changes in the outgoing shortwave clear-sky radiation (Rsutcs) measured by the Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES), accounting for the effect of variability in surface albedo, water vapor, and ozone. We find increases in SDRECS (i.e., less radiation scattered to space by aerosols) over Western Europe (0.7–1 W m−2 dec−1) and the Eastern US (0.9–1.8 W m−2 dec−1), decreases over India (−0.5– −1.9 W m−2 dec−1) and no significant change over Eastern China. Comparisons with the GFDL chemistry climate model AM3, driven by CMIP6 historical emissions, show that changes in SDRECS over Western Europe and the Eastern US are well captured, which largely reflects the mature understanding of the sulfate budget in these regions. In contrast, the model overestimates the trends in SDRECS over India and Eastern China. Over China, this bias can be partly attributed to the decline of SO2 emissions after 2007, which is not captured by the CMIP6 emissions. In both India and Eastern China, we find much larger contributions of nitrate and black carbon to changes in SDRECS than in the US and Europe, which highlights the need to better constrain their precursors and chemistry. Globally, our model shows that changes in the all-sky aerosol direct forcing between 2001 and 2015 (+0.03 W m−2) are dominated by black carbon (+0.12 W m−2) with significant offsets from nitrate (−0.03 W m−2) and sulfate (−0.03 W m−2). Changes in the sulfate (+7 %) and nitrate (+60 %) all-sky direct forcing between 2001 and 2015 are only weakly related to changes in the emissions of their precursors (−12.5 % and 19 % for SO2 and NH3, respectively), due mostly to chemical non linearities.
Applications of a shadow camera system for energy meteorology
Authors: Kuhn Pascal , Wilbert Stefan , Prahl Christoph , Garsche Dominik , Schüler David , Haase Thomas , Ramirez Lourdes , Zarzalejo Luis , Meyer Angela , Blanc Philippe , Pitz-Paal Robert
Published: February 2018

Abstract. Downward-facing shadow cameras might play a major role in future energy
meteorology. Shadow cameras directly image shadows on the ground from an
elevated position. They are used to validate other systems (e.g. all-sky
imager based nowcasting systems, cloud speed sensors or satellite forecasts)
and can potentially provide short term forecasts for solar power plants. Such
forecasts are needed for electricity grids with high penetrations of
renewable energy and can help to optimize plant operations. In this
publication, two key applications of shadow cameras are briefly presented.
Sources and fate of nitrate in groundwater at agricultural operations overlying glacial sediments
Authors: Bourke Sarah A. , Iwanyshyn Mike , Kohn Jacqueline , Hendry M. Jim
Published: February 2018

Abstract. Leaching of nitrate (NO3−) from animal waste or fertilizers at agricultural operations can result in NO3− contamination of groundwater, lakes, and streams. Understanding the sources and fate of nitrate in groundwater systems in glacial sediments, which underlie many agricultural operations, is critical for managing impacts of human food production on the environment. Elevated NO3− concentrations in groundwater can be naturally attenuated through mixing or denitrification. Here we use snapshots of the stable isotope values of NO3− to quantify denitrification in groundwater at two confined feeding operations overlying glacial sediments in Alberta, Canada. Uncertainty in δ15NNO3 and δ18ONO3 values of the NO3− source and denitrification enrichment factors are accounted for using a Monte Carlo approach. When denitrification could be quantified, we reconstructed the initial NO3-N concentration and NO3-N / Cl− ratio at the point of entry to the groundwater system. The addition of NO3− to the local groundwater system from temporary manure piles and pens equalled or exceeded NO3− additions due to leaching from earthen manure storages at these sites. Nitrate attenuation at both sites is attributed to a spatially variable combination of mixing and denitrification, but is dominated by denitrification. On-site denitrification reduced agriculturally derived NO3− concentrations by at least half and, in some wells, completely. These results indicate that infiltration to groundwater systems in glacial sediments where NO3− can be naturally attenuated is likely preferable to off farm export via runoff or drainage networks. The application of isotopes of nitrate to constrain a mixing model based on concentrations of Cl− and NO3−, which can be routinely monitored in groundwater, provides a relatively simple method to assess the sources and fate of agriculturally derived NO3− in these settings.
ADCP observations of migration patterns of zooplankton in the
Cretan Sea
Authors: Potiris Emmanuel , Frangoulis Constantin , Kalampokis Alkiviadis , Ntoumas Manolis , Pettas Manos , Petihakis George , Zervakis Vassilis
Published: February 2018

Abstract. The lack of knowledge of the mesopelagic layer inhabitants, especially of those performing strong vertical migration, is an acknowledged challenge as its incomplete representation leads to the exclusion of an active carbon and nutrient pathway from the surface to the deeper layers and reversely. The vertical migration of mesopelagic inhabitants (macro-planktonic and micro-nektonic) was observed by acoustical means in the epi- and mesopelagic layer of the open oligotrophic Cretan Sea (Eastern Mediterranean) for almost 2.5 years at the site of an operational fixed-point observatory located at 1500 m depth. The observed organisms were categorized in four groups according to their migration patterns. The variability of the migration patterns was inspected in relation to the physical and biological environmental conditions of the study area. The stratification of the water column does not act as a barrier for the vertical motion of the strongest migrants, moving up to 400 m every day. Instead, changes of light intensity (lunar cycle, daylight duration, cloudiness) and the presence of prey and predators seem to explain the observed daily, monthly and seasonal variability. The continuous presence of these organisms, yet capable of vertical motion and despite the profound seasonal circulation variability at the site of the observatory, implies their presence in the broader study area. The fundamental implications of the above for biogeochemical processing in oligotrophic seas due to the intimate link of the C and nutrient cycles, are discussed.
Increased West Antarctic and unchanged East Antarctic ice discharge over the last 7 years
Authors: Gardner Alex S. , Moholdt Geir , Scambos Ted , Fahnstock Mark , Ligtenberg Stefan , van den Broeke Michiel , Nilsson Johan
Published: February 2018

Abstract. Ice discharge from large ice sheets plays a direct role in determining rates of sea-level rise. We map present-day Antarctic-wide surface velocities using Landsat 7 and 8 imagery spanning 2013–2015 and compare to earlier estimates derived from synthetic aperture radar, revealing heterogeneous changes in ice flow since ∼ 2008. The new mapping provides complete coastal and inland coverage of ice velocity north of 82.4° S with a mean error of < 10 m yr−1, resulting from multiple overlapping image pairs acquired during the daylight period. Using an optimized flux gate, ice discharge from Antarctica is 1929 ± 40 Gigatons per year (Gt yr−1) in 2015, an increase of 36 ± 15 Gt yr−1 from the time of the radar mapping. Flow accelerations across the grounding lines of West Antarctica's Amundsen Sea Embayment, Getz Ice Shelf and Marguerite Bay on the western Antarctic Peninsula, account for 88 % of this increase. In contrast, glaciers draining the East Antarctic Ice Sheet have been remarkably constant over the period of observation. Including modeled rates of snow accumulation and basal melt, the Antarctic ice sheet lost ice at an average rate of 183 ± 94 Gt yr−1 between 2008 and 2015. The modest increase in ice discharge over the past 7 years is contrasted by high rates of ice sheet mass loss and distinct spatial patters of elevation lowering. The West Antarctic Ice Sheet is experiencing high rates of mass loss and displays distinct patterns of elevation lowering that point to a dynamic imbalance. We find modest increase in ice discharge over the past 7 years, which suggests that the recent pattern of mass loss in Antarctica is part of a longer-term phase of enhanced glacier flow initiated in the decades leading up to the first continent-wide radar mapping of ice flow.
SMART THERMOPLASTIC ELASTOMERS WITH HIGH EXTENSIBILITY FROM POLY (VINYLIDENE FLUORIDE) AND HYDROGENATED NITRILE RUBBER: PROCESSING–STRUCTURE–PROPERTY RELATIONSHIP
Authors: Saha Subhabrata , Bhowmick Anil K.
Published: February 2018

Novel smart thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) with very high extensibility were prepared by blending polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) with hydrogenated nitrile rubber (HNBR) at an appropriate ratio, and their processing–structure–property relationship was investigated. Although the rubber phase was found to be dispersed in the matrix of PVDF for all compositions, morphology was shear sensitive and changed significantly after each processing step. Dropletlike structure was observed after the mixing in an internal mixer and compression molding, which changed to the lamellar structure after milling and injection molding. The compression molded sample exhibited very high extensibility (∼1600% elongation at break for 30/70 PVDF/HNBR blend) and a tensile strength of ∼6 MPa due to the formation of a strong interface. The elongation at break was much higher than any of the TPEs reported so far. Theoretical calculation of rubber particle size was also in agreement with the experimental observation. Dissipative particle dynamics simulation was run to capture the morphology, where HNBR chains were more sensitive to the shear force than the PVDF chains. The electromechanical sensitivity of the blend was 14.3 MPa−1, much better than the existing reported elastomeric actuator as well as pristine PVDF. Dynamic vulcanization gave further improvement in tensile strength and tension set properties.