bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability Modeling in Some Elastic Stability Problems Via the Generalized Stochastic Finite Element Method / Modelowanie Niezawodnosci W Pewnych Zagadnieniach Statecznosci Sprezystej Z Wykorzystaniem Uogólnionej Stochastycznej Metody Elementów Skonczonych
Authors: Kaminski M. , Swita P.
Published: March 2012

The main idea of this work is to demonstrate an application of the generalized perturbation-based Stochastic Finite Element Method for a determination of the reliability indicators concerning elastic stability for a certain spectrum of the civil engineering structures. The reliability indicator is provided after the Eurocode according to the First Order Reliability Method, and computed using the higher order Taylor expansions with random coefficients. Computational implementation provided by the hybrid usage of the FEM system ROBOT and the computer algebra system MAPLE enables for reliability analysis of the critical forces in the most popular civil engineering structures like simple Euler beam, 2 and 3D single and multi-span steel frames, as well as polyethylene underground cylindrical shell. A contrast of the perturbation-based numerical approach with the Monte-Carlo simulation technique for the entire variability of the input random dispersion included into the Euler problem demonstrates the probabilistic efficiency of the perturbation method proposed.
Selected Aspects of Failure Probability Assessment for Fire Situation / Wybrane Problemy Szacowania Prawdopodobienstwa Zawodu W Sytuacji Pozaru
Authors: Maslak M.
Published: March 2012

To reliably calibrate suitable partial safety factors, useful for the specification of global condition describing structural safety level in considered design case, usually the evaluation of adequate failure probability is necessary. In accidental fire situation, not only probability of the collapse of load-bearing structure, but also another probability related to the people staying in a building at the moment of fire occurence should be assessed. Those values are different one from another in qualitative sense but they are coupled because they are determined by similar factors. The first one is the conditional probability with the condition that fire has already occured, whereas the second is the probability of failure in case of a potential fire, which can take place in the examined building compartment, but its ignition has not yet appeared. An engineering approach to estimate such both probabilities is presented and widely discussed in the article.
Influence of Anti-Foaming Admixture on Frost Resistance and Porosity Characteristic of Self-Compacting Concrete / Wpływ Domieszki Przeciwpieniacej Na Mrozoodpornosc I Charakterystyke Porowatosci Betonu Samozageszczalnego
Authors: Łazniewska-Piekarczyk B.
Published: March 2012

For the decreasing of too high air volume in SCC, application of anti-foaming admixture (AFA) is proposed. In effect, AFA is increasing mix flow diameter and decreasing the flow time. Moreover, the workability loss is lower. In case of mix incorporating AFA, their high fluidity do not generate segregation of the mix, which is possible in case of SCC incorporating only SP. The effect of AFA application on the compressive strength depends on the proportions between SP and AFA. AFA has not a negative influence on the freeze-proof properties of the tested concrete. The advisable influence of AFA on porosity characteristic of SCC is proved by research results according to EN 480-11 code.
The Inf-Sup Condition Tests for Shell/Plate Finite Elements / Testy Warunku Inf-Sup Do Oceny Płytowych I Powłokowych Elementów Skonczonych
Authors: Gilewski W. , Sitek M.
Published: March 2012

Development of high-performance finite elements for thick, moderately thick, as well as thin shells and plates, was one of the active areas of the finite element technology for 40 years, followed by hundreds of publications. A variety of shell elements exist in the FE codes, but “the best” finite element is still to be discovered. The paper deals with an evaluation of some existing shell finite elements, from the point of view of the third of three requirements to be satisfied by the element: ellipticity, consistency and inf-sup condition. It is difficult to prove the inf-sup condition analytically, so, a numerical verification is proposed. A set of numerical tests is considered for shell and plate problems. Two norm matrices and a selection of the stiffness matrices (bending, shear and membrane dominated) are analysed. Finite elements from various computer systems can be evaluated and compared with the use of the proposed tests.
Changing Land Use in Recent Decades and Its Impact on Plant Cover in Agricultural and Forest Landscapes in Poland
Authors: Bomanowska Anna , Kiedrzyński Marcin
Published: March 2012

The objective of this paper is to present the effects of general changes in land use in recent decades on plant cover structure in Poland. The paper is focused on spontaneous processes that occur in agricultural and forest areas being no longer under human pressure. Studies carried out in different geobotanical regions of Poland demonstrated that the directions and range of dynamic changes in plant cover are similar across the country. The formation of secondary forest phytocenoses, on the lands delivered from human activity is a common ecological process observed today in the agricultural landscape. In the dynamics of forest vegetation the basic process is regeneration after ceased use, and the introduction of legal protection.
Forest Return on an Abandoned Field – Secondary Succession Under Monitored Conditions
Authors: Adamowski Wojciech , Bomanowska Anna
Published: March 2012

The secondary succession pattern observed on an arable field abandoned since 1974 in Tilio-Carpinetum habitat is described and disscussed. Results obtained during 36 years of study confirm that succession on an abandoned field leads from a typical segetal community to the formation of a juvenile treestand composed of pioneer species. Our study supports the view that succession is a process which is largely dependent on the initial conditions and surrounding vegetation. The results indicate that some species can modify the course of this process, accelerating or slowing it down. Limitations of the method and prognosis of future vegetation development are also discussed.
Effects of space vector modulation strategy on hybrid (Si-SiC) inverter losses
Authors: Bonisławski Michał , Hołub Marcin
Published: March 2012

Effects of space vector modulation strategy on hybrid (Si-SiC) inverter losses

This work summarizes efficiency measurement results of a full bridge, 3 phase inverter composed of state-of-the-art Si IGBT transistors and Si or SiC diodes. Different (symmetrical and discontinuous) space vector modulation strategies were chosen in order to examine their influence (together with modulation frequency) on inverter losses. Induction machine was used as load, different load points were examined. Results clearly show, that proper modulation strategy, minimizing the switching losses of semiconductor switches, can increase the overall output efficiency at about 1% in case of both silicon and hybrid constructions. The drawback of DPWM approach is connected with the decreased quality of inverter output current. Hybrid technology can also improve the output efficiency at about 1% when compared to traditional constructions, but only in case of elevated switching frequencies. At low frequencies (below 10 kHz) modern semi-conductors offer comparable results at much lower device costs.
An outbreak of bluetongue virus serotype 9 in Southern Croatia
Authors: Listeš Eddy , Bosnić Sanja , Benić Miroslav , Madić Josip , Cvetnić Željko , Lojkić Mirko , Šeparović Sanja , Labrović Ankica , Savini Giovanni
Published: March 2012

The aim of this study was to provide a description of the first epidemic of bluetongue and the first survey on midges of the genusCulicoidesin Croatia. Clinical signs were firstly observed on November 2001 in sheep in Konavle, Dubrovnik – Neretva County. During this epizootic the overall sheep morbidity and mortality were 5.2% (95% confidence interval (c.i.), 4.1-6.6%) and 2.29% (95% c.i., 1.6-3.3%), respectively. After the outbreak, 3,318 serum samples of ruminants from 53 villages of the Dubrovnik – Neretva County were examined for bluetongue virus (BTV) antibodies by competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA). In forty nine (92.45%, 95% c.i., 82.11-96.92%) of the 53 villages, animals with antibodies against bluetongue virus were found. In particular, a total of 178 cattle (49.86%, 95% c.i., 44.7-55.0%), 174 sheep (13.72%, 95% c.i., 11.9-15.7%) and 270 goats (15.95%, 95% c.i., 14.3-17.8%) were seropositive. Antibodies to bluetongue virus serotype 9 were detected in 212 positive sera by serum neutralization test. The percentage of positive animals decreased (P> 0.05) from the east to the west suggesting a possible east westward spreading of BTV infection. Fourteen light-trap midge collections from seven different sites were examined. Of the 4872Culicoidesspp. collected, 4,492 (92%, 95% c.i., 91.4-92.9%) of them belonged to the species ofObsoletus complex. This study showed for the first time that a pathogenic strain of BTV-9, probably from Montenegro, entered Croatia causing disease and death in local sheep and thatC. obsoletusandC. scoticuswere likely the major vectors of infection.
What Do Women Know about Government Services and Benefits?
Authors: Gidengil Elisabeth , Stolle Dietlind
Published: March 2012

This article examines how much women know about government services and benefits and discusses why this type of knowledge matters. Using data from a survey as well as focus groups conducted in Montreal and Toronto, we show that the women who are most likely to need information about these programs are often the least likely to be aware of them. This is especially true of low-income women, older women, and women who came to Canada as immigrants. We end by suggesting some steps that could be taken to address these knowledge gaps.
Energy Use and GHG Emissions in the Quebec Pulp and Paper Industry, 1990–2006
Authors: Adès Julie , Bernard Jean-Thomas , González Patrick
Published: March 2012

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of the Quebec pulp and paper industry fell by more than 30 percent from 1990 to 2006. We use an energy demand model to analyze the contributions to this decrease of energy prices, product mix, technological change, and biomass use. The product mix is made of pulp, and cardboard, and paper. Pulp is an intermediate product for the industry, but not necessarily so for mills; vertical integration varies across mills and presents different opportunities to transfer heat between stages of production. Chemical and mechanical pulping processes are used to form two groups of pulp and paper mills. We find that changes of product mixes contributed the most to reduce GHG emissions, followed to a lesser extent by increases of fuel prices relative to electricity. The estimated electricity and fuel price elasticities are low. However it is still possible to significantly reduce GHG emissions by substituting natural gas for heavy fuel oil; such a substitution could be brought about by a small change of their relative price.
Liturgical Architecture: Creating Space for Worship
Authors: Robinson Gerald
Published: March 2012

Abstract:

Space is a positive entity, capable of expression. It is the materiel of architecture. Rudolf Schwarz proposed six forms of space (the Six Plans) that would support Christian worship. I identify these six aspects of worship as contemplation, pastoral care, witness, dedication, evangelism, and justice. I give a functional analysis of each plan and an example of how it has been realized in practice. These plans create sacred spaces, each of which can support all the ministries of the Church.
Passive underwater acoustic evolution of a calving event
Authors: Pettit Erin C.
Published: March 2012

Direct measurements of processes occurring at the ice–ocean boundary are difficult to acquire because of the dangerous and dynamic nature of the boundary, yet these processes are among the least well understood in glaciology. Because sound travels well through water, passive underwater acoustics offers a method to remotely sense activity at this boundary. Here we present passive acoustic measurements and spectral analysis of the evolution of a subaerial calving event and the subsequent mini-tsunami and seiche at Meares Glacier, Alaska, USA. Using two hydrophones to record sound from 1 to 40 000 Hz, we find that each phase of a calving event has distinctive spectral characteristics. An event begins with an infrasound rumble (1–20 Hz), then the ice fractures (20–100 Hz), falls and impacts the water (200–600 Hz). High-frequency (>10 000 Hz) sound increases in intensity quickly as the iceberg oscillates, creating turbulence, spray and waves. Within 10 s, the low-frequency audible sound dissipates and the mini-tsunami and seiche sounds dominate (infrasound plus high frequencies) and continue for over 10 min. The specific frequencies and duration of each phase of a calving event depend on its size and location and the glacier and fjord characteristics.
Relationships between iceberg plumes and sea-ice conditions on northeast Devon Ice Cap, Nunavut, Canada
Authors: Herdes Emilie , Copland Luke , Danielson Brad , Sharp Martin
Published: March 2012

This study investigates the impact of sea-ice conditions on the production of iceberg plumes from two tidewater glaciers on Devon Ice Cap, Nunavut, Canada. These effects are quantified using a 12 year RADARSAT-1 satellite record from 1997–2008 that contains imagery from approximately every 1–2 weeks in the winter and every 1–4 days in the summer. Iceberg plumes identified in this record are verified against terrestrial time-lapse photography of Belcher Glacier from 2007–08. Results suggest a strong relationship between iceberg plumes and the retreat of sea ice from the glacier termini, with the plumes caused by both the release of previously calved icebergs (ice melange) and new glacier calving. Iceberg plumes are also sometimes observed at other times in the summer and in midwinter (occasionally on both glaciers simultaneously), with these events likely due to new glacier calving alone. Analysis of tides and air temperatures suggests that they provide a minor influence on the timing of iceberg plumes. Instead, it appears that changes in the presence of sea ice are dominant on seasonal timescales, although internal glacier dynamics likely play a significant role for winter plume events that occur when substantial thicknesses of landfast sea ice are present.
Changes of Petrov glacier and its proglacial lake in the Akshiirak massif, central Tien Shan, since 1977
Authors: Engel Zbyněk , Šobr Miroslav , Yerokhin Sergei A.
Published: March 2012

A combination of remotely sensed data, field mapping, bathymetric survey and geophysical soundings is used to describe the recent changes in the terminal area of Petrov glacier, the largest glacier in the Akshiirak massif, central Tien Shan. According to our results, three periods of accelerated glacier retreat (1977-80, 1990-95 and 2008-09) can be distinguished since 1977. The largest recession occurred in 1990-95 when the glacier retreated by 54 ± 8ma-1. Accelerated glacier retreat affected the enlargement rate of Petrov lake, which increased by 0.04-0.1 km2 a-1 and by 1.3-2.2 × 106m3a-1 in the last three decades. Since 1995, the mean annual retreat rate of the lake-calving northern glacier section has been up to three times higher than the retreat rate of the land-terminating southern section. The calving flux ranged from 2.5 to 4.6 × 106m3a-1 in 2003-09, resulting in a total glacier mass loss of (17.7 ± 0.4) × 106m3. The calving terminus of Petrov glacier was >65 m thick in 2009 according to ground-penetrating radar measurements.
Modelling the delivery of supraglacial meltwater to the ice/bed interface: application to southwest Devon Ice Cap, Nunavut, Canada
Authors: Clason Caroline , Mair Douglas W.F. , Burgess David O. , Nienow Peter W.
Published: March 2012

The transfer of surface-generated meltwater to the subglacial drainage system through full ice thickness crevassing may lead to accelerated glacier velocities, with implications for ice motion under future climatic scenarios. Accurate predictions of where surface meltwater accesses the ice/bed interface are therefore needed in fully coupled hydrodynamic ice-sheet models. We present a spatially distributed modelling routine for predicting the location and timing of delivery of surface-derived meltwater to the ice/bed interface through moulins and supraglacial lake drainage. The model is explained as it is applied to the Croker Bay glacial catchment of Devon Ice Cap, Canada. The formation of moulins, drainage of lakes, and the transfer of meltwater through the full ice thickness are modelled for the 2004 and 2006 ablation seasons. Through this case study we assess the model’s sensitivity to degree-day factors, fracture toughness, tensile strength and crevasse width, and confirm that parameters influencing the rate at which water fills a crevasse are the most significant controls on the ability of a crevasse to reach the bed. Increased surface melt production, therefore, has the potential to significantly influence the spatial and temporal transfer of meltwater through surface-to-bed connections in a warmer climate
Combigraphs
Authors: Böhönyey János
Published: March 2012

In the construction industry there is a frequent need to cover long distances with the precise combination of small size components. Diophantos the Greek mathematician dealt with the combination of integer numerals. He worked out both the Diophantine equation and the Diophantine diagram, which are still in use, (also in a slightly modified version). In England, Dunstone worked out another method - beyond the two combinative digits, later also for three. With the growth of industrialization and mass production the interest emerged for three and four digit methods, in order to have a larger selection of combinations. I have developed a rather simple method for a three and four digit version. Combining the Dunstone with Diophantine methods, has also made it possible to apply three and four digits.
Railway Water Towers in Szolnok
Authors: Gábor-Szabó Zsuzsanna
Published: March 2012

The industrial water towers built by the railway companies at the end of the 19th century predated the first generation of municipal public supply towers in most towns of Hungary.
This paper focuses on the town of Szolnok, the principal station on the Pest-Szolnok railway line. As the third railway track of the country, it was opened to public steam locomotive transportation in 1847. It was a water station where the locomotives´ tanks were refilled with water from an elevated reservoir.
Although in a ramshackle state, one of Szolnok´s railway water towers still remains, awaiting a well-deserved renovation. This listed industrial monument bears an Intze Type I tank of which only a few have survived in the country. A photodocumentation presents a newly discovered, Intze Type II railway tower the vicissitudes of which are also traced through written documents. By the demolition of this latter one in the middle of the 20th century the era of historicism in the architecture of railway buildings has come to an end. New utilitarian railway water tower types of reinforced concrete were created throughout the country, an example of which was also constructed in Szolnok.
Late baroque greek-cross plan type Lutheran churches in Hungary
Authors: Krähling János , Domonkos Nagy Gergely
Published: March 2012

The paper analyses a specific building type, the Baroque church architecture of historic Hungary, the Greek-cross ground-plan evangelic churches. This church type has different prototypes: the Huguenot and Scandinavian Protestant churches in Europe, the model plans of architectural treatises - first of all the treatises of Leonhard Christoph Sturm - and the Lutheran wooden churches of Silesia. The symbolic content of the cruciform plan was also popular among the Lutheran congregations, which is explainable with theological reasons as well as with the good visual and acoustic conditions, furthermore with the construction benefits from its application. The Slovak Lutheran congregations played a determining role in the domestication and the dissemination of the layout type. The late Baroque central Greek-cross plan is an important antecedent for the renewal of the late 19^th century Protestant church architecture.
Ribbed vaults of the Nagyvázsony monastery church - Geometrical factor of safety highlights the secret
Authors: Ther Tamás , Sajtos István , Armuth Miklós , Strommer László
Published: March 2012

Using the geometrical factor of safety, the article compares three ribbed vaults which are different in their structures and complexity. Each vault could have been built for the Nagyvázsony monastery church. The spatial geometry of the three different vaults is based on the rules of control curve construction using the known geometry of the remains of the church ruins. The thrust lines for the ribs are determined for the dead load of the vault in each case. These thrust lines, as statically possible solutions, prove the suitability of the structures, and the geometrical factor of safety of the ribs helps to specify the geometry based on which the vault could be built.
The preliminary results of our research indicate that the geometrical factor of safety of the pointed groin vault proved to be the highest. From the three examined vaults, this one is the first that appeared in the history of architecture. Our conclusion is that the later built, more complex vaults raised not only geometrical or execution difficulties, but were also daring solutions from the aspect of the stability of the ribs.
The adaptations of the true-to-form survey method
Authors: Halmos Balázs , Marótzy Katalin
Published: March 2012

The following study is about the method of surveying historic buildings applied by the Department for History of Architecture and of Monuments of the Budapest University of Technology and Economics. The true-to-form architectural survey is based on the method used in ``Bauforschung´´, the building archaeology practice developed and widely used in Germany. In this context, survey is not only a tool of documentation but is considered as a research method in itself. The authors discuss the importance of the on-the-spot analysis of the building and the role and place of architectural survey in the whole process of monument preservation, as well as the possible adaptation of the method presented under different circumstances. The examples are stages of the monument documentation work carried out on the Cathedral of Saint Michael in Alba Iulia (Gyulafehérvár), Romania.
The historical development of thermal insulation materials
Authors: Bozsaky Dávid
Published: March 2012

The history of thermal insulation materials is not as long as that of other materials, but the necessity of insulation is as old as building activity. Prehistoric people built shelters to protect themselves from the elements, originally using organic materials and later more durable substitutes.
However people used not only materials that were found in nature, but discovered others which were suitable for insulating. Processing organic materials produced the first insulated panels in the 19th century: meanwhile an increasing range of artificial materials were developed (rock wool, fibreglass, foam glass, hollow bricks, expanded perlite).
The appearance of plastic foams caused a huge revolution. Although plastic production was well-known in the 19th century, the first plastic foam was not produced until 1941.
Nowadays the most popular insulation materials are plastic foams and mineral wool with only a small amount of natural materials being produced. The overall growth of these products has been substantial due to a wide range of reasons.
Traversées du miroir vénitien: voyages à Venise et psyché fin-de-siècle chez Jean Lorrain et Maurice Barrès
Authors: Leray Morgane
Published: March 2012

Cette étude se propose d'analyser la fonction spéculaire et symbolique du pèlerinage touristique chez les écrivains fin-de-siècle: itinérance spatiale, il est aussi voyage intérieur et cheminement esthétique, carrefour où se rencontrent l'ego de l'homme et l'ethos de l'auteur. Les canaux de la déliquescente Venise, à la beauté malsaine, deviennent ainsi sous la plume de Barrès et de Lorrain autant de miroirs dans lesquels se mirent des hommes hantés par la mort et dans lesquels se reflète un art se construisant sur la mise-en-scène de son agonie.
Dietary Pseudopurpurin Effects on Bone Mineral Density and Bone Geometry Architecture in Rats
Authors: Wu Chen-Chen , Li Xiao-Bing , Han Tie-Suo , Li Peng , Liu Guo-Wen , Wang Wei-Zhong , Wang Zhe
Published: March 2012

The objective of our study was to evaluate whether feeding pseudopurpurin affects bone mineral density and bone geometry architecture in rats. Pseudopurpurin was extracted, analyzed and purified using an HLPC-ESI-MS. Rats were given 0% and 0.5% pseudopurpurin powder in their diet. Femurs of rats were examined at 0.5, 1 and 2 months after pseudopurpurin feeding. Compared with rats in the group 0%, the bone mineral density, and the calcium, magnesium, zinc and manganese concentrations in the rats femur in the group 0.5% increased significantly at 1 month and 2 months after pseudopurpurin feeding. Analytical results of micro-computed tomography showed that the group 0.5% displayed an increase in the trabecular volume fraction, trabecular thickness and trabecular number of the distal femur at 1 and 2 months after pseudopurpurin feeding, and the mean thickness, inner perimeter, outer perimeter, and area of the femur diaphysis were significantly increased at 2 months after pseudopurpurin feeding compared with the group 0%. In parallel, the trabecular separation and structure model index of the distal femur were decreased, compared with the group 0% at 1 and 2 months after pseudopurpurin feeding. In the 0.5% and 0% groups, there was no damage to kidney and liver by histopathology analysis. The long-term feeding of pseudopurpurin is safe for rats. The feeding of 0.5% pseudopurpurin which has specific chemical affinities for calcium for bone improvement and level of bone mineral density, enhances the geometry architecture compared with the 0% group.
Extracts of Phenolic Compounds from Seeds of Three Wild Grapevines—Comparison of Their Antioxidant Activities and the Content of Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Weidner Stanisław , Powałka Anna , Karamać Magdalena , Amarowicz Ryszard
Published: March 2012

Phenolic compounds were extracted from three wild grapevine species: Vitis californica, V. riparia and V. amurensis seeds using 80% methanol or 80% acetone. The total content of phenolic compounds was determined utilizing the Folin-Ciocalteu’s phenol reagent while the content of tannins was assayed with the vanillin and BSA precipitation methods. Additionally, the DPPH free radical scavenging activity and the reduction power of the extracts were measured. The RP-HPLC method was applied to identify the phenolic compounds in the extracts, such as phenolic acids and catechins. The seeds contained large amounts of tannins, catechins and gallic acid and observable quantities of p-coumaric acid. The total content of phenolic compounds and tannins was similar in the extracts from V. californica and V. riparia seeds. However, the total content of total phenolic compounds and tannins in the extracts from V. californica and V. riperia seeds were about two-fold higher than that in the extracts from V. amurensis seeds. Extracts from seeds of the American species (V. californica and V. riparia) contained similarly high concentrations of tannins, whereas extracts from seeds of V. amurensis had approximately half that amount of these compounds. The content of catechin and epicatechin was similar in all extracts. The highest DPPH• anti-radical scavenging activity was observed in the acetonic and methanolic extracts of V. californica and V. riparia seeds—while the acetonic extract from the V. californica seeds was the strongest reducing agent.
Homologous NF-YC2 Subunit from Arabidopsis and Tobacco Is Activated by Photooxidative Stress and Induces Flowering
Authors: Hackenberg Dieter , Keetman Ulrich , Grimm Bernhard
Published: March 2012

The transcription factor NF-Y consists of the three subunits A, B and C, which are encoded in Arabidopsis in large gene families. The multiplicity of the genes implies that NF-Y may act in diverse combinations of each subunit for the transcriptional control. We aimed to assign a function in stress response and plant development to NF-YC subunits by analyzing the expression of NF-Y genes and exploitation of nf-y mutants. Among the subunit family, NF-YC2 showed the strongest inducibility towards oxidative stress, e.g. photodynamic, light, oxidative, heat and drought stress. A tobacco NF-YC homologous gene was found to be inducible by photooxidative stress generated by an accumulation of the tetrapyrrole metabolite, coproporphyrin. Despite the stress induction, an Arabidopsis nf-yc2 mutant and NF-YC2 overexpressors did not show phenotypical differences compared to wild-type seedlings in response to photooxidative stress. This can be explained by the compensatory potential of other members of the NF-YC family. However, NF-YC2 overexpression leads to an early flowering phenotype that is correlated with increased FLOWERING LOCUS T-transcript levels. It is proposed that NF-YC2 functions in floral induction and is a candidate gene among the NF-Y family for the transcriptional activation upon oxidative stress.
Evaluation of a Change Detection Methodology by Means of Binary Thresholding Algorithms and Informational Fusion Processes
Authors: Molina Iñigo , Martinez Estibaliz , Arquero Agueda , Pajares Gonzalo , Sanchez Javier
Published: March 2012

Landcover is subject to continuous changes on a wide variety of temporal and spatial scales. Those changes produce significant effects in human and natural activities. Maintaining an updated spatial database with the occurred changes allows a better monitoring of the Earth’s resources and management of the environment. Change detection (CD) techniques using images from different sensors, such as satellite imagery, aerial photographs, etc., have proven to be suitable and secure data sources from which updated information can be extracted efficiently, so that changes can also be inventoried and monitored. In this paper, a multisource CD methodology for multiresolution datasets is applied. First, different change indices are processed, then different thresholding algorithms for change/no_change are applied to these indices in order to better estimate the statistical parameters of these categories, finally the indices are integrated into a change detection multisource fusion process, which allows generating a single CD result from several combination of indices. This methodology has been applied to datasets with different spectral and spatial resolution properties. Then, the obtained results are evaluated by means of a quality control analysis, as well as with complementary graphical representations. The suggested methodology has also been proved efficiently for identifying the change detection index with the higher contribution.
Les trois figures du tiers intermédiaire : les origines mythiques et bibliques du « praticien – chercheur – formateur »
Authors: Drouard Hervé
Published: March 2012

Résumé Dans le cadre de la thématique «?tiers-intermédiaire?» fonctionnant dans la relation professionnelle de travail social ou la recherche participative, l’auteur s’interroge sur les origines mythiques et historiques de cette approche ternaire de l’intervention humaine sur la nature ou l’autre humain. La Bible porte une tradition particulière qui reconnaît à chacun le titre et le statut de «?roi, prêtre et prophète?». Que signifie aujourd’hui et pour le travail social cette problématique reprise périodiquement dans l’histoire du christianisme?? N’a-t-elle pas préparé et nourri la thématique moderne du chacun «?praticien, chercheur, formateur?» qui rompt avec les clivages institués et la défense des statuts figés, la division sociale du travail ontologisée. Potentiellement, toute pratique humaine peut être l’objet de recherche pour le praticien en vue de son amélioration et de sa transmission aux autres. L’analyse des pratiques, la recherche en travail social (ou toute autre profession) participent de cette démarche.
The third party and the (professional) stranger: personal and interactional approach to participative research
Authors: Granosik Mariusz
Published: March 2012

Résumé Habituellement, il est considéré comme allant de soi que la position épistémologique adoptée par un chercheur influence les résultats, et donc la théorie générée est une supposition, une hypothèse. Mais l’approche théorique modèle aussi la réflexion méthodologique. En adoptant une très générale et simple diversification disciplinaire d’un point de vue psychologique et sociologique, cela permet probablement de rendre visible la dépendance. Le concept principal du texte, le «?tiers?», fait plutôt allusion à la perspective personnelle (psychologique) et demande l’analyse des sujets (objets) impliqués dans les procédures de recherches. À l’opposé, la perspective interactionnelle va focaliser l’enquête de l’analyste sur l’interaction (perspective sociologique) plutôt que sur les personnes. Cette différence nous amène à une question fondamentale?: qu’est-ce que la «?recherche participative?» veut dire?? Cela veut-il dire?: impliquer beaucoup de personnes (co-opération, action professionnelle, groupe de travail intermédiaire)?? Ces deux différentes manières se solderont par des conclusions et résultats différents (théorique, empirique et pratique). Il semble donc intéressant, utile, d’examiner leur adoption d’une sélection de concepts philosophique (Levinas), sociologique (Simmel) et ethnographique (Agar).
Participation et médiation dans la recherche en sciences sociales : une perspective transactionnelle
Authors: Blanc Maurice
Published: March 2012

Résumé La recherche en sciences sociales est engluée dans des schémas binaires?: recherche fondamentale et appliquée, coupure épistémologique et réflexivité, etc. Il faut les combiner, dans un processus transactionnel. Toute recherche en sciences sociales est participative, mais à des degrés variables?: de la simple information de la population jusqu’à la coproduction de la recherche. La recherche participative contribue au renforcement de la puissance d’agir ( empowerment ) des populations démunies, matériellement et culturellement. Le chercheur devient un médiateur engagé, ou un «?passeur?» de frontières culturelles et sociales. Malgré les malentendus qui l’entourent en France, le travail social communautaire fait place à la recherche participative et elle contribue à la constitution d’un espace public local de confrontation et de débat démocratique.
The role of the Third – the mediator between the world of the homeless and the world of normals
Authors: Kostrzyńska Małgorzata
Published: March 2012

Résumé Le but de cette présentation est l’analyse du rôle du tiers dans le processus de réintégration sociale de sans-abris. La recherche participative sur les sans-abris qui restent en dehors du système d’assistance sociale est devenue une source puissante de connaissances sur ces personnes. Les champs d’actions pris en charge par le tiers, ainsi que ses choix émanant de rôles existant de manière symbolique – comme intermédiaire, médiateur, animateur – étaient fixés par les besoins quotidiens des sans-abris. L’analyse du processus de l’engagement du tiers et sa présence créant un lien, une relation, entre les sans-abris et les citadins, a permis de faciliter l’accomplissement d’un arrangement, mais était aussi souvent le seul moyen d’entrer en interaction. Le tiers est donc représentatif des sans-abris dans le monde des «?normaux?», mais aussi représentatif des «?normaux?» dans le monde des sans-abris?; essayant ainsi de traduire la réalité de ces deux mondes pour ceux qui s’en trouvent très loin.
L'entre-deux n'est pas un juste milieu ! C'est un espace libéré
Authors: Menchi Patrick
Published: March 2012

Résumé L’espace et la mobilité sont très rarement des thèmes utilisés pour comprendre le travail social alors que, paradoxalement, ils sont systématiquement à l’œuvre dans les pratiques. Il est toujours aussi problématique de «?situer?» conceptuellement le travail social. Indécidable, entre-deux, marginal sécant, les formules se succèdent pour signifier la difficulté à dégager un champ. Pourtant, on utilise largement la métaphore de l’espace clos, à laquelle nous pourrions réponde avec celle d’un espace libéré. Comment se préparer à la surprise du changement dans l’action si l’on est formé dans des cadres rigides?? La formation du travailleur social spécialisé gagnerait à intégrer la mobilité dans ses représentations en lien avec ses propres déplacements. Après avoir tracé un cadre de référence, je témoignerai d’une expérience en formation d’éducateurs spécialisés.
La communauté thérapeutique ? Oui, mais pas tout de suite !
Authors: Demange Jean-Pierre
Published: March 2012

Résumé Pour expliquer l’origine et la permanence de la dimension communautaire ainsi que des notions, parfois très anciennes, d’auto-organisation et/ou d’autosupport, sans doute faut-il explorer les filiations qui existent entre les différentes applications institutionnelles actuelles et l’histoire des groupes, que ce soit au sein des mouvements religieux, mutualistes, associatifs ou coopératifs et plus généralement à travers toutes les formes d’auto-organisation qui ont pu se développer au cours des siècles. L’on soulignera l’influence majeure du mouvement de la psychothérapie institutionnelle concernant l’approche groupale et communautaire en France. Quel impact cette longue histoire peut-elle avoir sur le devenir des communautés thérapeutiques ? Existe-t-il réellement un espace culturel et politique pour développer des projets spécifiques de prise en charge communautaire en France ? Cet article propose une revue historique du phénomène ainsi que des pistes de réflexion.
Fenêtres ouvertes sur la clinique
Authors: Loyer Barbara
Published: March 2012

Résumé M’inspirant de l’ouvrage de Jean-Bertrand Pontalis : Fenêtres (2000), j’ai souhaité partager mon expérience en tant que psychologue au sein d’une Communauté Thérapeutique. Il s’agit d’ouvrir quelques fenêtres sur la clinique auprès de toxicomanes accueillis avec ce mode de prise en charge spécifique encore méconnu en France, lieu de vie autant qu’outil thérapeutique. Au travers de ce témoignage d’une clinique qui mêle pratique individuelle et groupale et qui nécessite une attention particulière portée aux mouvements institutionnels, j’ai tenté d’appréhender une relation thérapeutique à la personne dépendante qui œuvre dans les espaces interstitiels et quotidiens comme dans les dispositifs classiques (entretiens d’évaluation, suivis psychologiques individuels, groupe de parole, médiations thérapeutiques).
Philosophie des 12 étapes des Alcooliques Anonymes en Amérique du Nord : aspects critiques et psychosociaux
Authors: Suissa Amnon Jacob
Published: March 2012

Résumé Les revues de littérature en Amérique du Nord démontrent qu’un nombre significatif d’intervenants sociaux œuvrant dans le champ des dépendances provient des regroupements AA (Alcooliques Anonymes). Dans la mesure où le discours fondé sur les 12 étapes exerce une influence considérable dans la conception du phénomène des dépendances d’une part, et des interventions à privilégier, d’autre part, plusieurs questions interpellent les intervenants sociaux. Quels sont les fondements du discours AA qui permettent l’actualisation des comportements de dépendance pour les rendre plus acceptables au plan social, voire plus désirables ? Quelles sont les finalités sociales de ces regroupements ? Dans quelle mesure les références aux AA sont-elles compatibles avec les valeurs du DPA (développement du pouvoir d’agir) des personnes ? À partir d’une analyse sociale critique, l’auteur propose d’explorer les alternatives dans la dissémination de ce discours prônant un certain déterminisme (une fois dépendant, toujours dépendant). Cet article souhaite sensibiliser les intervenants sociaux en leur permettant de développer un argumentaire scientifique alternatif à la médicalisation des problèmes sociaux de dépendance.
Une enquête sur les effets des spiritueux sur le corps et l'esprit humains
Authors: Rush Benjamin , Levivier Marc , Gira Emmanuelle
Published: March 2012

Résumé L’histoire de l’addictologie s’inaugure dans les jeunes États-Unis accédant à l’indépendance avec le travail de Benjamin Rush, An inquiry into the effects of ardent spirits upon the human body and mind. Pour la première fois en effet, l’usage de l’alcool est appréhendé du point de vue de ses conséquences sur la santé et de la dépendance. Maintes fois publié en anglais, le texte n’avait jamais été traduit en français. La présente traduction vise donc à enrichir la réflexion addictologique en rendant accessible au lectorat français la plus complète de ses éditions, la huitième. La présentation qui la précède la situe dans son contexte politique, historique et scientifique.
The English Origins of Geotourism (as a Vehicle for Geoconservation) and Their Relevance to Current Studies
Authors: A. Hose Thomas
Published: March 2012

This paper contextualises the recognition of the geotourism concept. It stresses the underpinning geoconservation purpose that drove its development in England. It notes the multidisciplinary nature of geotourism research. It provides a summary of the development of early modern geoconservation in England as a necessary precursor to the inception, recognition and development of geotourism.  It notes the evolving geotourism research approach and its impact on its understandings, definitions and models; the whole is contextualised within the framework of special interest tourism. The interaction between geotourism and geoparks is considered. A new geotourism definition is provided and a plea made for its original rationale and observations to be included in studies elsewhere in Europe.
Safety and Efficacy of Ranibizumab in Macular Edema following Retinal Vein Occlusion
Authors: Gallego-Pinazo Roberto , Dolz-Marco Rosa , Marín-Lambíes Cristina , Díaz-Llopis Manuel
Published: March 2012

Macular edema is the leading cause of visual impairment in patients with retinal vein occlusion. Limited improvements may be obtained with laser photocoagulation or intravitreal triamcinolone. However, according to the data provided by randomized clinical trials, intravitreal injections of ranibizumab (Lucentis; Genentech, South San Francisco, CA) constitute a new effective and safe option for the management of these vision-threatening diseases. The aim of the present review is to summarize the clinical evidence of ranibizumab for macular edema due to retinal vein occlusions.
More Abelian groups with free duals
Authors: Bergman George M.
Published: March 2012

In answer to a question of A. Blass, J. Irwin and G. Schlitt, a subgroup

G

of the additive group

\mathbb{Z}^\omega

is constructed whose dual, Hom

(G,\mathbb{Z})

, is free abelian of rank

2^{\aleph_0}.

The question of whether

\mathbb{Z}^\omega

has subgroups whose duals are free of still higher rank is discussed, and some further classes of subgroups of

\mathbb{Z}^\omega

are noted.
Annual distribution of allergenic fungal spores in atmospheric particulate matter in the Eastern Mediterranean; a comparative study between ergosterol and quantitative PCR analysis
Authors: Lang-Yona N. , Dannemiller K. , Yamamoto N. , Burshtein N. , Peccia J. , Yarden O. , Rudich Y.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. Airborne fungal spores are an important fraction of atmospheric particulate matter and are major causative agents of allergenic and infectious diseases. Predicting the variability and species of allergy-causing fungal spores requires detailed and reliable methods for identification and quantification. There are diverse methods for their detection in the atmosphere and in the indoor environments; yet, it is important to optimize suitable methods for characterization of fungal spores in atmospheric samples. In this study we sampled and characterized total and specific airborne fungal spores from PM10 samples collected in Rehovot, Israel over an entire year. The total fungal spore concentrations vary throughout the year although the species variability was nearly the same. Seasonal equivalent spore concentrations analyzed by real-time quantitative-PCR-based methods were fall > winter > spring > summer. Reported concentrations based on ergosterol analysis for the same samples were and fall > spring > winter > summer. Correlation between the two analytical methods was found only for the spring season. These poor associations may be due to the per-spore ergosterol variations that arise from both varying production rates, as well as molecular degradation of ergosterol. While conversion of genome copies to spore concentration is not yet straightforward, the potential for improving this conversion and the ability of qPCR to identify groups of fungi or specific species makes this method preferable for environmental spore quantification. Identifying tools for establishing the relation between the presence of species and the actual ability to induce allergies is still needed in order to predict the effect on human health.
Characterization of wind power resource in the United States
Authors: Gunturu U. B. , Schlosser C. A.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. Wind resource in the continental and offshore United States has been reconstructed and characterized using metrics that describe, apart from abundance, its availability, persistence and intermittency. The Modern Era Retrospective-Analysis for Research and Applications (MERRA) boundary layer flux data has been used to construct wind profile at 50 m, 80 m, 100 m, 120 m turbine hub heights. The wind power density (WPD) estimates at 50 m are qualitatively similar to those in the US wind atlas developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), but quantitatively a class less in some regions, but are within the limits of uncertainty. The wind speeds at 80 m were quantitatively and qualitatively close to the NREL wind map. The possible reasons for overestimation by NREL have been discussed. For long tailed distributions like those of the WPD, the mean is an overestimation and median is suggested for summary representation of the wind resource. The impact of raising the wind turbine hub height on metrics of abundance, persistence, variability and intermittency is analyzed. There is a general increase in availability and abundance of wind resource but there is an increase in intermittency in terms of level crossing rate in low resource regions.