bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Remote Sensing Image Interpretation for Urban Environment Analysis: Methods, System and Examples
Authors: Du Peijun , Liu Pei , Xia Junshi , Feng Li , Liu Sicong , Tan Kun , Cheng Liang
Published: October 2014

Remote sensing imagery has been widely used in urban growth and environment analysis with many effective and advanced strategies being developed. However, most of these approaches are separated from each other. There is an urgent need to combine different modules into some practical processing chains. Firstly, we present a comprehensive analysis of key processing chains in applying remote sensing images to urban environment analysis from such aspects as Land Use/Land Cover (LULC), urban landscape ecology, Urban Heat Islands (UHIs), vegetation and water monitoring, change detection, urban ecological security assessment and urban environmental mapping. Secondly, an integrated system, namely Urban Environment Analysis System (UEAS), is implemented based on the aforementioned processing chains to analyze urban environment using multi-temporal and multi-source remotely sensed data. Several case studies are demonstrated to confirm the effectiveness of the integrated system and the combined processing chains. The contributions of this paper lie in introducing ensemble learning to urban environment remote sensing, combining remote sensing derived information with thematic models for urban environment assessment, and developing an integrated system for urban environment analysis.
The Productive Uses of Conflict in Child Protection
Authors: Magnuson Doug
Published: October 2014

Some child protection cases exemplify a certain kind of cooperative interdependence, a consequence of the ways in which practitioners and clients are entangled. Client and practitioner are “stuck” with each other and need each other to succeed. There is also an intrinsic power imbalance that technique, ideology, and skill cannot hide and that has risks for the well-being and success of the practitioner-client relationship. There is also a risk to the practitioner of biases caused by successful influence. “Productive conflict,” defined as conflict under conditions of cooperative interdependence, may compensate for these challenges and lead to “integrative solutions.” In these cases the conflict itself is a kind of collaboration.
Description of Active Joint Count Trajectories in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Berard Roberta A. , Tomlinson George , Li Xiuying , Oen Kiem , Rosenberg Alan M. , Feldman Brian M. , Yeung Rae S.M. , Bombardier Claire
Published: October 2014

Objective.

To describe the trajectories of longitudinal joint disease activity in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), and to examine associations of clinical and laboratory characteristics with the identified trajectories.

Methods.

A retrospective cohort study at 2 Canadian centers was performed. The longitudinal trajectories of active joint counts were described in a proof-of-concept study using a latent growth curve analysis. Baseline patient characteristics were compared across trajectory groups.

Results.

Data were analyzed on 659 children diagnosed with JIA between March 1980 and September 2009. The median age at diagnosis was 10.0 years (interquartile range 3.7–13.4) and 61% (402/659) were female. The International League of Associations for Rheumatology (ILAR) diagnoses were as follows: oligoarthritis (36%), enthesitis-related arthritis (20%), rheumatoid factor (RF)-negative polyarthritis (13%), undifferentiated arthritis (12%), psoriatic arthritis (8%), systemic arthritis (7%), and RF-positive polyarthritis (4%). Based on the trajectories of their active joint counts, the 659 patients were each classified in 1 of 5 latent classes (which can be described as high decreasing, moderate increasing, persistent moderate, persistent low, and minimal joint activity). These latent classes were clinically and statistically distinct from the ILAR categories.

Conclusion.

In this proof-of-concept study, in which we used an analytic methodology in a novel way, we identified 5 clinically and statistically distinct trajectories of disease course. The subsets of patients within each class were different from those described by the ILAR classification criteria. This successful application of this method supports its use in a chronic disease with a fluctuating course such as JIA. These methods should be expanded for the purposes of predictive modeling.
Anticyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibodies in Rheumatoid and Nonrheumatoid Rheumatic Disorders: Experience with 1162 Patients
Authors: Payet Judith , Goulvestre Claire , Bialé Lisa , Avouac Jérôme , Wipff Julien , Job-Deslandre Chantal , Batteux Frédéric , Dougados Maxime , Kahan André , Allanore Yannick
Published: October 2014

Objective.

Anticyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies (anti-CCP) are considered specific markers of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and have been included in the revised classification criteria for RA diagnosis. However, these antibodies have also been detected in patients with other types of chronic inflammatory rheumatism. Our objectives were to identify the prevalence of positive anti-CCP patients in non-RA diseases, to determine the diagnostic value of anti-CCP for the diagnosis of RA, to specify the clinical characteristics of non-RA patients positive for anti-CCP, and to determine the discriminatory value of the levels of anti-CCP in patients among the various diseases.

Methods.

We carried out an observational and descriptive study. All the determinations of anti-CCP requested by the 2 rheumatology departments at Cochin Hospital over a period of 18 months were analyzed. Such determinations were requested for 1162 patients in total. Anti-CCP levels were determined with the Euro Diagnostica ELISA kit, with values ≥ 25 U for this test being considered positive. The diagnosis of rheumatic conditions was the responsibility of the treating physician.

Results.

Anti-CCP antibodies were detected in 357 (30.7%) of the 1162 patients. The prevalence of anti-CCP was 292/417 (70.0%) in RA, 13/122 (10.6%) in patients with psoriatic arthritis, 13/62 (20.9%) in patients with unclassified rheumatism, 11/33 (33.3%) in patients with primary Sjögren syndrome, 5/30 (16.6%) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, 3/28 (10.7%) in patients with mixed connective tissue disorder, 3/36 (8.3%) in patients with systemic sclerosis, 7/44 (15.9%) in patients with juvenile arthritis, and 6/220 (2.7%) in patients with noninflammatory diseases. In the population of patients positive for anti-CCP, mean anti-CCP levels were 869.4 (± 978.4) U/ml, with no significant difference between RA [854.8 (± 959.8) U/ml] and any of the non-RA conditions [922.7 (± 1070.0) U/ml].

Conclusion.

Anti-CCP are a hallmark of RA, but may be observed in other inflammatory, systemic, or mechanical diseases. In this large cohort of patients, the presence of second-generation anti-CCP (anti-CCP2) antibodies is useful in diagnosing RA (70% sensitivity, 91.3% specificity), but examining the levels of these antibodies does not appear to offer further discriminatory power among patients who are anti-CCP2-positive.
Evaluation of Germinal Center-like Structures and B Cell Clonality in Patients with Primary Sjögren Syndrome with and without Lymphoma
Authors: Johnsen Svein Joar , Berget Ellen , Jonsson Malin Viktoria , Helgeland Lars , Omdal Roald , Jonsson Roland
Published: October 2014

Objective.

Germinal center (GC)-like structures have previously been observed in minor salivary glands (MSG) of patients with primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS). The aim of our study was to explore the prevalence and features of GC-like structures and B cell clonality in patients with pSS with and without lymphoma.

Methods.

Based on a nationwide survey in Norway, we included 21 patients with pSS and with a concomitant lymphoma from whom MSG and/or lymphoma biopsies were available. Tonsil biopsies and MSG from 28 patients with pSS without lymphoma were used as controls. The presence of GC-like structures was investigated with H&E staining and double staining for CD21/IgD and CD38/IgD. B cell clonality in MSG and tumors were investigated with analysis of immunoglobulin gene rearrangements.

Results.

H&E labeling of MSG revealed GC-like structures in 17/40 (43%) of the patients: 4/12 (33%) with and 13/28 (46%) without lymphoma. Staining for CD21/CD38/IgD demonstrated CD21+ networks in 27/40 (68%) of the patients. CD21+/CD38– infiltrates were seen in 25/40 (63%) of the patients, and 16 of these were IgD+ within the infiltrate. Five percent (2/40) of the patients presented with CD21+/CD38+ infiltrates resembling tonsillar GC. Monoclonal B cell infiltration in MSG was present in 5/12 patients (42%) with and 5/28 patients (18%) without lymphoma (p = 0.12). In 2/10 (20%) of cases where both MSG and lymphoma biopsies were available, identical clonal rearrangements were detected.

Conclusion.

GC-like structures seen in H&E-stained MSG may represent various subtypes of CD21+ infiltrates. We were unable to detect a clear association between cellular infiltrates, B cell clonality, and lymphoma development.
Detection of Subclinical Synovitis with Macrophage Targeting and Positron Emission Tomography in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis without Clinical Arthritis
Authors: Gent Yoony Y.J. , Ahmadi Nazanin , Voskuyl Alexandre E. , Hoetjes Nikie , van Kuijk Cornelis , Britsemmer Karin , Turkstra Franktien , Boers Maarten , Hoekstra Otto S. , van der Laken Conny J.
Published: October 2014

Objective.

To determine whether macrophage targeting by (R)-11C-PK11195 positron emission tomography (PET) can visualize subclinical joint inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) without clinical arthritis during or after treatment, with flare as clinical outcome measure.

Methods.

(R)-11C-PK11195 PET and contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of hands/wrists were performed in 29 patients with RA without clinical arthritis. (R)-11C-PK11195 PET uptake (semiquantitative score 0–3) in metacarpophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal, and wrist joints (i.e., 22 joints per patient) was scored and summed to obtain a cumulative PET score (range 0–66). Rheumatoid Arthritis Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scoring (RAMRIS) was performed on similar joints. Synovitis and bone marrow edema scores (> 1) were summed to obtain a cumulative MRI score (range 0–288). Occurrence of flare was determined during 3-year followup.

Results.

Flare was observed in 17/29 patients (59%). (R)-11C-PK11195 PET showed enhanced tracer uptake in 16/29 patients (55%), of which 11 (69%) developed a flare. Highest cumulative PET scores (> 6, n = 3) corresponded with highest cumulative MRI scores (> 39) and were related to development of flare in hands/wrists within 6 months. Cumulative PET scores of patients developing a flare were higher than those of patients without a flare [median (interquartile range) 2 (0–4.5) vs 0 (0–1), p < 0.05]. In contrast, no significant differences were found between cumulative MRI scores of patients with and without a flare.

Conclusion.

(R)-11C-PK11195 PET showed enhanced uptake, pointing to presence of subclinical synovitis in over half of patients without clinical arthritis. (R)-11C-PK11195 PET may be of value for prediction of exacerbation of RA, since cumulative PET scores > 1 were associated with development of flare within 3 years.
Prognosis of Seronegative Patients in a Large Prospective Cohort of Patients with Early Inflammatory Arthritis
Authors: Barra Lillian , Pope Janet E. , Orav John E. , Boire Gilles , Haraoui Boulos , Hitchon Carol , Keystone Edward C. , Thorne J. Carter , Tin Diane , Bykerk Vivian P. ,   and the CATCH Investigators
Published: October 2014

Objective.

Rheumatoid factor (RF) and anticitrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) are believed to be associated with more severe rheumatoid arthritis; however, studies in early inflammatory arthritis (EIA) have yielded conflicting results. Our study determined the prognosis of baseline ACPA-negative and RF-negative patients.

Methods.

Patients enrolled in the Canadian Early Arthritis Cohort had IgM RF and IgG anticyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies 2 (anti-CCP2) measured at baseline. Remission was defined as a Disease Activity Score of 28 joints (DAS28) < 2.6 using logistic regression accounting for confounders at 12-month and 24-month followup.

Results.

Of the 841 patients, 216 (26%) were negative for both RF and anti-CCP2. Compared to seropositive subjects, seronegative subjects were older (57 ± 15 vs 51 ± 14 yrs), more males proportionately (31% vs 23%), and had shorter length of symptoms (166 ± 87 vs 192 ± 98 days), and at baseline had higher mean swollen joint count (SJC; 8.8 ± 6.8 vs 6.5 ± 5.6), DAS28 (5.0 ± 1.6 vs 4.8 ± 1.5), and erosive disease (32% vs 24%, p < 0.05). Treatment was similar between the 2 groups. At 24-month followup, seronegative compared to seropositive subjects had greater mean change (Δ ± SD) in disease activity measures: ΔSJC counts (−6.9 ± 7.0 vs −5.1 ± 5.9), ΔDAS28 (−2.4 ± 2.0 vs −1.8 ± 1.8), and ΔC-reactive protein (−11.0 ± 17.9 vs −6.4 ± 17.5, p < 0.05). Accounting for confounders, antibody status was not significantly associated with remission. However, at 12-month followup, ACPA-positive subjects were independently more likely to have new erosive disease (OR 2.94, 95% CI 1.45–5.94).

Conclusion.

Although seronegative subjects with EIA have higher baseline DAS28 compared to seropositive subjects, they have a good response to treatment and are less likely to develop erosive disease during followup.
Earlier Time to Remission Predicts Sustained Clinical Remission in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis — Results from the Canadian Early Arthritis Cohort (CATCH)
Authors: Kuriya Bindee , Xiong Juan , Boire Gilles , Haraoui Boulos , Hitchon Carol , Pope Janet , Thorne John Carter , Tin Diane , Keystone Edward C. , Bykerk Vivian
Published: October 2014

Objective.

To evaluate the prevalence and predictive factors of sustained remission in an early rheumatoid arthritis (ERA) population. Predictive factors of sustained remission in ERA are unknown. We hypothesized that a short time to remission is an important predictor of sustained clinical remission.

Methods.

Patients in the Canadian Early Arthritis Cohort were included. Remission was defined by Boolean-based American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism clinical trial and clinical practice definitions and Simplified Disease Activity Index (SDAI). Logistic regression analysis identified predictors of sustained remission and influence of time to remission.

Results.

Of 1840 patients, 633 (34%) achieved clinical trial remission, 759 (41%) clinical practice remission, and 727 (39%) SDAI remission. Over half of those meeting remission criteria achieved sustained remission based on clinical trial (55%), clinical practice (60%), and/or SDAI (58%). Corticosteroid use and lack of initial disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) were associated with decreased probability of sustained remission, while initial combination DMARD increased this probability. Female sex, greater pain, and longer time to first remission made sustained remission less likely.

Conclusion.

Female sex, greater pain, and lack of initial DMARD therapy reduced the probability of sustained remission. A shorter time to remission is related to sustainability and supports striving for early remission.
Coronary and Abdominal Aorta Calcification in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Relationships with Traditional Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Disease Characteristics, and Concomitant Treatments
Authors: Paccou Julien , Renard Cédric , Liabeuf Sophie , Kamel Said , Fardellone Patrice , Massy Ziad A. , Brazier Michel , Mentaverri Romuald
Published: October 2014

Objective.

To assess the influence of traditional cardiovascular (CV) risk factors, disease characteristics, and concomitant treatments in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) on coronary artery calcification (CAC) and abdominal aorta calcification (AAC).

Methods.

In our cross-sectional study, 75 patients with RA were compared with 75 age-matched and sex-matched control participants. The CAC and AAC scores were measured by computed tomography in patients with no clinical evidence of coronary artery disease. The relationships between the presence or absence of CAC and AAC and traditional CV risk factors, disease characteristics, and concomitant treatments in patients with RA were assessed in a multiple logistic regression analysis.

Results.

The RA and control groups did not differ significantly in terms of age, sex composition, or the prevalence of traditional CV risk factors. AAC and CAC were more prevalent and severe in patients with RA than in controls. Older age (OR = 1.15, p < 0.01) and hypertension (OR = 3.77, p = 0.04) were found to be independently associated with CAC, whereas current use of methotrexate (MTX; OR = 0.12, p = 0.01) was found to be associated with the absence of CAC. Older age (OR per yr = 1.17, p < 0.001) and erosive arthritis (OR = 3.78, p = 0.03) were found to be independently associated with AAC.

Conclusion.

Our study demonstrates that in patients with RA, (1) CAC and AAC are more prevalent and more severe compared with age-matched and sex-matched control participants, (2) current use of MTX is a major determinant of the absence of CAC, and (3) erosive arthritis is a major determinant of AAC.
Failure in Longterm Treatment is Rare in Actively Treated Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis, But May Be Predicted by High Health Assessment Score at Baseline and by Residual Disease Activity at 3 and 6 Months: The 5-year Followup Results of the Randomized Clinical NEO-RACo Trial
Authors: Rantalaiho Vappu , Kautiainen Hannu , Järvenpää Salme , Korpela Markku , Malmi Timo , Hannonen Pekka , Kaipiainen-Seppänen Oili , Yli-Kerttula Timo , Möttönen Timo , Mustila Anu , Karjalainen Anna , Paimela Leena , Uutela Toini , Leirisalo-Repo Marjatta ,   for the NEO-RACo Study Group
Published: October 2014

Objective.

With modern initial aggressive combination treatments with synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (sDMARD), most patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) achieve remission, have marginal radiographic progression, and sustain normal function. Here we aim to identify the patients failing these targets even after aggressive treatment.

Methods.

Ninety-nine patients with early, active RA were treated with a combination of 3 sDMARD and prednisolone (PRD), and either infliximab or placebo infusions during the first 6 months, aiming at strict remission. After 24 months, the treatments became unrestricted. At 60 months, 4 evident clinical features of treatment failure were defined: area under curve (AUC) between 6–60 months for disease activity score assessing 28 joints > 2.6; AUC 6–60 for health assessment questionnaire > 0.5; progression in total Sharp/van der Heijde score 0–60 months > 3 units; and need of PRD or biologic DMARD treatment at 60 months.

Results.

A total of 93 patients were followed up for 60 months. Of them, 45 had no features of treatment failure, 30 had 1, 10 had 2, 7 had 3, and 1 patient had all 4 features. Having 2–4 features of treatment failure at 5 years was predicted by the health assessment score at baseline, and by even low residual disease activity at 3 and 6 months.

Conclusions.

Only 20% of the patients with RA treated early with combination sDMARD and PRD have more than 1 clinical feature of treatment failure at 60 months. Residual clinical disease activity at 3–6 months was the most important predictor for identifying these patients. The study was registered at www.clintrials.gov (NCT00908089).
Development of a Modified Hand Mobility in Scleroderma (HAMIS) Test and its Potential as an Outcome Measure in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Sandqvist Gunnel , Nilsson Jan-Åke , Wuttge Dirk M. , Hesselstrand Roger
Published: October 2014

Objective.

To modify the hand mobility in scleroderma (HAMIS) test by reducing the number of items and amount of equipment needed, and to evaluate the construct validity of this modified HAMIS (mHAMIS).

Methods.

Our retrospective study is based on 266 patients previously examined using the original HAMIS test. Data were divided into 3 groups depending on disease duration after onset: (1) 0–3 years, (2) 3.1–5 years, and (3) 5.1–9 years. Disease variables included were skin involvement using the disease subset and the modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS), and digital lesions. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was calculated separately for limited (lcSSc) and diffuse systemic sclerosis (dcSSc) for the right and left hand, and for the groups with different disease duration. The construct validity of the mHAMIS was assessed by searching for a correlation with hand skin score.

Results.

An mHAMIS test consisting of finger flexion, finger extension, finger abduction, and dorsal extension was developed. The internal consistency of this test was 0.78, 0.83, and 0.73 in the 3 groups with different disease duration. In the whole study group, mHAMIS showed a significant correlation with mRSS and hand skin score (rs = 0.39 and 0.43, respectively), and was able to discriminate between lcSSc and dcSSc (p = 0.001), and between patients with and without ulcers (p = 0.015).

Conclusion.

The mHAMIS involves 4 easily measurable items and has the potential to be a relevant clinical measure of outcome in the evaluation of fibrotic skin involvement in SSc.
The Effect of Antiestrogen Agents on Risk of Autoimmune Disorders in Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Chen Jason Y. , Ballou Stanley P.
Published: October 2014

Objective.

To investigate the relationship between antiestrogen therapy in women with breast cancer and risk of autoimmune disease.

Methods.

We used a national database to assess the incidence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) following treatment with selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERM) or aromatase inhibitors (AI) in women with breast cancer. The total number of patients in our study was 190,620.

Results.

We observed highly significant, cumulative dose-dependent increased OR of incidence of both SLE and RA following treatment with SERM (p < 0.0001). The odds of developing RA were also increased following AI therapy (p < 0.001), but there was a trend for reduced odds of SLE, though this trend did not attain statistical significance (p = 0.070 for 2–11 months of treatment and p = 0.254 for 12+ months of treatment).

Conclusion.

Antiestrogen agents may have an important effect on risk of autoimmune disease.
Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis in Clinical Remission Manifest Persistent Joint Inflammation on Histology and Imaging Studies
Authors: Anandarajah Allen , Thiele Ralf , Giampoli Ellen , Monu Johnny , Seo Gwy-Suk , Feng Changyong , Ritchlin Christopher T.
Published: October 2014

Objective.

The purpose of our study was to test the hypothesis that synovitis on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound (US) observed in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who meet remission criteria reflects active inflammation on histopathology.

Methods.

We analyzed 15 synovial specimens obtained during surgical procedures from 14 patients with RA in clinical remission as defined by the American College of Rheumatology criteria. Histological specimens were scored for hyperplasia of synovial lining and synovial stroma, inflammation, lymphoid follicles, and vascularity. The histology scores were classified as minimal, mild, moderate, or severe disease activity. US and MRI performed within a 4-month period of surgery were scored for disease activity. The correlation between histology and imaging scores was examined.

Results.

Four of 14 patients were receiving anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) therapy, 4 were receiving methotrexate (MTX) alone, 4 were taking MTX and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), and 1 was taking HCQ and sulfasalazine. Four specimens had severe, 6 moderate, 3 mild, and 2 minimal disease activity on histology. Three of 4 specimens with minimal and mild histology were observed in subjects receiving anti-TNF therapy. Synovitis was noted on greyscale in 80% of joints and Doppler signal in 60%. MRI demonstrated synovitis and bone marrow edema in 86% of images. Positive but not significant correlations were noted between histology and synovitis scores on US.

Conclusion.

Despite clinical remission, histology and imaging studies documented a persistently active disease state that may explain the mechanism for radiographic progression.
Une production islamique de la mondialisation
Authors: Otayek René
Published: October 2014

Les relations entre l’Afrique subsaharienne, singulièrement la zone sahélo-saharienne, et le « monde arabe » s’articulent autour de dynamiques de transnationalisme aussi complexes que protéiformes, de plus en plus marquées par la récurrence de la référence islamique. L’action des Etats et celle des réseaux de toutes natures, le commerce des biens de salut et la circulation des hommes et des services reconfigurent ainsi l’oumma comme communauté imaginée et dessinent une production islamique de la mondialisation.
L'Algérie et la sécurité au Sahel : lecture critique d'une approche paradoxale
Authors: Dris-Ait Hamadouche Louisa
Published: October 2014

L’Algérie est profondément impliquée dans la sécurité du Sahel dont dépend sa propre sécurité. Ce constat résume l’intérêt de l’Algérie pour le Sahel mais pas sa politique étrangère, dont la perception, les principes, les instruments et la mise en œuvre sont intimement liés à des considérations politiques internes. En effet, si le socle normatif qui fonde la politique étrangère algérienne lui confère une identité et une histoire fortes, il peut par ailleurs devenir une contrainte. Ainsi, la difficulté de concilier les bouleversements régionaux avec les constantes idéologiques et avec les évolutions politiques internes soumet la politique sahélienne de l’Algérie à des paradoxes impactant son efficience.
De l'Egypte à l'Ethiopie, quand la puissance se déplace en Afrique nilotique
Authors: Blanc Pierre
Published: October 2014

« L’Egypte est un don du Nil ». Cette formule qui nous vient d’Hérodote a été encore vraie dans la période contemporaine, tellement l’Egypte a fait de ce fleuve l’allié de son développement. Profitant de son avance politique et militaire et de ses atouts géostratégiques, le pouvoir central égyptien a pu valoriser les ressources qu’offre le fleuve en termes de sécurisation alimentaire et énergétique. Mais l’affirmation des Etats en amont du bassin du Nil modifie aujourd’hui le statu quo . Sortie de ses vicissitudes d’un « présent historique » à tout le moins tragique, l’Ethiopie est à l’avant-garde des Etats d’amont qui remettent en cause l’avantage de l’Egypte. En surplomb de la question de l’eau, c’est tout un réaménagement du rapport de force qui se noue dans le bassin du Nil, et c’est donc en ces termes que nous décryptons ici la donne hydropolitique ; en sachant que les rapports de puissance n’ont pas forcément le dernier mot dans les relations internationales.
La justice chariatique en Syrie « libérée » : un modèle juridique consensuel ?
Authors: Valter Stéphane
Published: October 2014

Dans certaines zones de Syrie tenues par les rebelles, le besoin de régulation donne lieu à la mise en place d’une justice chariatique. Cet article présente cette situation et en analyse les modalités d’application. Il s’agit de montrer que la sharî‘a , concernant surtout les peines corporelles, n’est pas toujours appliquée dans sa version la plus tolérante, et qu’elle est au centre d’enjeux de pouvoir entre rebelles, en tenant compte du fait que la vengeance expéditive l’emporte souvent sur toute idée d’application d’une soi-disant justice (islamique ou non). Une réflexion sera enfin engagée quant aux ressorts d’une violence juridique pour laquelle, dans de nombreux cas, aucun motif raisonnable ne peut être discerné.
De la déconnexion partielle en voyage : l'émergence du voyageur hypermoderne
Authors: Lachance Jocelyn
Published: October 2014

Les TIC se sont progressivement immiscées dans l’univers du voyageur contemporain, mais peu de recherches ont essayé de comprendre comment elles participent de la transformation de l’expérience du voyage. Cet article rend compte d’une vaste enquête de terrain menée auprès de voyageurs d’aventure tentant désespérément de se déconnecter des TIC. Cherchant à réaliser un voyage moderne, notamment caractérisé par une coupure provisoire avec leur quotidien, les enquêtés révèlent la difficulté d’échapper à leur rôle et à leur statut dans un monde où s’impose l’injonction de connexion. Fortement interpellés par leurs proches, les voyageurs rencontrés portent l’espoir d’une déconnexion totale, mais optent finalement pour une déconnexion partielle présentée comme un compromis qui témoigne de l’émergence d’une nouvelle expérience hypermoderne du voyage.
Formes de déconnexion volontaire et temporalités de Twitter
Authors: Domenget Jean-Claude
Published: October 2014

Les professionnels de la visibilité ont pour mission de rendre le plus présents possible leurs clients sur les moteurs de recherche et les médias sociaux. Compte tenu des enjeux professionnels liés à leur présence en ligne sur Twitter, notamment en termes de reconnaissance d’expertise, d’e-réputation ou encore d’employabilité, leurs formes de déconnexion volontaire ne peuvent être que partielles, ponctuelles, provisoires, voire dissimulées. En analysant ces pratiques sous l’angle des temporalités en jeu, il apparaît que, face aux fortes tensions qui existent entre des cadres temporels rigides, une culture temporelle marquée par le « culte de l’urgence » et une capacité à réussir son équation temporelle personnelle (préserver un temps à soi), seules les formes de déconnexion repérées permettent de s’en prémunir et d’atteindre un idéal de milieu temporel souple, changeant et modifiable. Dans ce cadre, trois figures d’usagers sont distinguées en fonction de leur manière de résoudre leur équation temporelle personnelle et des formes de déconnexion volontaire qu’elles privilégient.
Les agendas, outils cognitifs de l'organisation du quotidien
Authors: Guillot Caroline
Published: October 2014

En quoi les différents modes d’usage des agendas (papier, électronique, calendrier, post-it...) constituent-ils des révélateurs du travail d’articulation des activités et comment, à travers lui, émerge le souci de séparer les sphères d’appartenance ? Articuler les activités sociales entre elles peut représenter une tâche cognitive complexe, surtout lorsqu’il faut gérer une multiplicité d’activités et faire face à des temporalités hétérogènes et incertaines. La gestion du temps est soutenue par des artefacts cognitifs, comme les agendas qui permettent, entre autres, de réduire l’effort de mémorisation et de programmation. À partir de l’analyse des usages des agendas, nous montrerons dans quelles conditions ces artefacts facilitent ou non l’articulation des activités. En effet, les sphères d’échange et de partage des agendas peuvent peser sur les stratégies d’écriture et ainsi rendre leur utilisation contraignante. Nous verrons également que les utilisateurs cherchent à faire exister une frontière entre les sphères privée et professionnelle pour préserver leur autonomie et leur vie intime.
Le passant de la bande
Authors: Vasset Philippe
Published: October 2014

Résumé Géographe, benjamin@geosolutions.com n’a pas résisté à la proposition de Speedial, leader mondial de l’internet : faire la cartographie du web. C’est-à-dire, plus précisément, la cartographie des infrastructures très matérielles d’un réseau censément virtuel. Philippe Vasset est journaliste. Collaborateur de Vacarme, auteur de plusieurs nouvelles, il a accepté que nous publiions un extrait de ce premier roman, encore inédit, où la fiction et l’aventure partent, repartent, à l’assaut des techniques. À moins que ça ne soit l’inverse : grésillements sonores du savoir, puissance optique des cartes, littérature de machine.
Anubis
Authors: Dupart Dominique
Published: October 2014

Résumé Pas un traité, pas un témoignage, mais la voix d’une habitante de New York-Manhattan-Downtown, une voix étrangère logée dans ce qui est, trois fois, le centre du pays, autant dire une voix atopique.
L'ennemi indéfini
Authors: Pasquier Emmanuel
Published: October 2014

Résumé Les méchants, ça peut servir. Certes, dans le genre, Carl Schmitt pousse un peu : engagement glaçant (membre du parti nazi jusqu’en 1936, condamné à Nuremberg pour antisémitisme), théorie sinistre (en gros, l’hostilité comme vérité de la politique). Sinistre, mais utile, lorsque la situation se réduit de fait à une opposition « ami/ennemi ». Emmanuel Pasquier a écrit ce texte à New York, après le 11 septembre.
Le Dilettante
Authors: Renouard Jean-Philippe , Soulignac Michèle
Published: October 2014

Résumé entretien avec Pascal Thomas, réalisateur
Le Cri de Tarzan
Authors: Coursin Isabelle , Tijou Brigitte
Published: October 2014

Résumé entretien avec Vincent Dietschy, réalisateur, ex-producteur
Libre à tout prix
Authors: Guillemeau-Chartier Christine
Published: October 2014

Résumé entretien avec Marie Vermillard, réalisatrice
Solid-phase extraction using molecularly imprinted polymer for determination of ochratoxin A in human urine
Authors: Xie L. , Sheng P. , Kong W. , Zhao X. , Ou-Yang Z. , Yang M.
Published: October 2014

A rapid, selective and reliable sample preparation technique employing solid-phase extraction (SPE) based on molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) for the determination of ochratoxin A (OTA) in human urine was described. After sample adjustment to pH 2.5 with 0.1 M HCl, the urine sample was loaded onto the MIP-SPE column, and after a wash step, OTA was eluted for measurement by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with fluorescence detection. Key parameters which affected the MIP-SPE extraction efficiency were optimized as was the detection method. Under the optimised conditions, the limits of detection and quantification for OTA in urine were 0.2 ng/ml and 0.6 ng/ml, respectively. The recoveries for OTA in urine, spiked at the 0.6, 6.0 and 60 ng/ml levels, ranged from 92.0 to 98.9%. Sixty urine samples were analysed, of which four were found to contain OTA at concentrations ranging from 0.022 to 0.083 ng/ml; the positive results were confirmed by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. OTA determination in urine is a good indicator for human exposure to the mycotoxin, and this is the first report on OTA contamination in Chinese people.
Symbolic-Based Monitoring for Embedded Applications
Authors: Mouttappa Pramila , Maag Stephane , Cavalli Ana
Published: October 2014

Testing embedded systems to find errors and to validate that the implemented system as per the specifications and requirements has become an important part of the system design. The research community has proposed several formal approaches these last years, but most of them only consider the control portion of the protocol, neglecting the data portions, or are confronted with an overloaded amount of data values to consider. In this chapter, the authors present a novel approach to model protocol properties of embedded application in terms of Input-Output Symbolic Transition Systems (IOSTS) and show how they can be tested on real execution traces taking into account the data and control portions. These properties can be designed to test the conformance of a protocol as well as security aspects. A parametric trace slicing approach is presented to match trace and property. This chapter is illustrated by an application to a set of real execution traces extracted from a real automotive Bluetooth framework with functional and security properties.
Requirements Refinement and Component Reuse
Authors: Baracchi Laura , Cimatti Alessandro , Garcia Gerald , Mazzini Silvia , Puri Stefano , Tonetta Stefano
Published: October 2014

The development of complex computer-based systems poses two fundamental challenges. On one side, the architectural decomposition must be complemented by a suitable refinement of the requirements. On the other side, it is fundamental to provide the means for component reuse in order to limit development costs. In this chapter, the authors discuss the approach taken in FoReVeR, a project funded by the European Space Agency (ESA), where these two issues are tackled in the setting of space systems. The approach taken in FoReVeR is based on the idea of contracts, which allow one to formally specify the requirements of components at different levels of abstraction and to formally prove the correctness of requirements decomposition. In particular, the authors show how system-level requirements can be progressively refined into software requirements and how the contract-based framework supports the reuse of the components of a reference architecture under development by ESA. The authors discuss how the proposed solution has been integrated in a space development process and present the results of case studies.
A Model-Driven Engineering Method for DRE Defense Systems Performance Analysis and Prediction
Authors: Falkner Katrina , Chiprianov Vanea , Falkner Nickolas , Szabo Claudia , Puddy Gavin
Published: October 2014

Autonomous, Distributed Real-Time Embedded (DRE) defence systems are typically characterized by hard constraints on space, weight, and power. These constraints have a strong impact on the non-functional properties of the final system, especially its performance. System execution modeling tools permit early prediction of the performance of model-driven systems; however, the focus to date has been on the practical aspects and creating tools that work in specific cases, rather than on the process and methodology applied. In this chapter, the authors present an integrated method to performance analysis and prediction of model-driven DRE defense systems. They present both the tools to support the process and a method to define these tools. The authors explore these tools and processes within an industry case study from a defense context.
Dynamically Reconfigurable Embedded Architectures for Safe Transportation Systems
Authors: Harb Naim , Niar Smail , Saghir Mazen A. R.
Published: October 2014

Embedded system designers are increasingly relying on Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) as target design platforms. Today's FPGAs provide high levels of logic density and rich sets of embedded hardware components. They are also inherently flexible and can be easily and quickly modified to meet changing applications or system requirements. On the other hand, FPGAs are generally slower and consume more power than Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs). However, advances in FPGA architectures, such as Dynamic Partial Reconfiguration (DPR), are helping bridge this gap. DPR enables a portion of an FPGA device to be reconfigured while the device is still operating. This chapter explores the advantage of using the DPR feature in an automotive system. The authors implement a Driver Assistant System (DAS) based on a Multiple Target Tracking (MTT) algorithm as the automotive base system. They show how the DAS architecture can be adjusted dynamically to different scenario situations to provide interesting functionalities to the driver.
Embedded Virtualization Techniques for Automotive Infotainment Applications
Authors: Violante Massimo , Macario Gianpaolo , Campagna Salvatore
Published: October 2014

Automotive infotainment applications are examples of embedded systems in which a heterogeneous software stack is used, which most likely comprises a real-time operating system, an automotive-grade Linux, and possibly Android. Thanks to the availability of modern systems-on-a-chip providing multicore computing platforms, architects have the possibility of integrating the entire software stack in a single chip. Embedded virtualization appears an interesting technology to achieve this goal, while providing the different operating systems the capability of exchanging data as well as optimizing resource usage. Although very well known in server-class systems, virtualization is rather new to the embedded domain; in order to leverage its benefits, it is therefore mandatory to understand its peculiarities and shortcomings. In this chapter, the authors illustrate the virtualization technologies with particular emphasis on hypervisors and Linux Containers. Moreover, they illustrate how those technologies can cooperate to fulfill the requirements on automotive infotainment applications. Finally, the authors report some experimental evidence of the performance overheads introduced when using embedded virtualization.
Mission Critical Embedded System Development Process
Authors: Genolini Stefano , Crippa Matteo
Published: October 2014

While analyzing currently available international research about embedded system development, it seems that as the complexity of embedded systems is continuously increasing, the major problems regarding their development remain always the same: vague requirements, insufficient time to develop, lack of resources, and complexity management. With the focus on the development process, it is shown, with examples coming from 20 years of experience, the industry perspective of a company managing such problems by adopting a consolidated set of good practices.
Clinical Data Mining in Small Hospital PACS
Authors: Santos Milton , Bastião Luís , Costa Carlos , Silva Augusto , Rocha Nelson
Published: October 2014

Technological developments in the medical imaging acquisition and storage process have triggered the use of PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication Systems) with gradually larger archives. Nowadays, there is data stored in the DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communication in Medicine) file that is not searchable using the traditional PACS database. However, it may represent an important source of information for continuous professional practice improvement. The use of DICOM Data Mining tools has been a valuable asset to analyze the information stored in the DICOM file and can result in gathering important data for the professional practice improvement. These tools can also contribute to the PACS information audit and facilitate access to relevant clinical data within programs for quality continuous improvement. By allowing the construction of multiple views over data repository in a flexible and quickly way and with the possibility to export data for further statistical analysis, Dicoogle permits the identification of data and process inconsistencies that can contribute to radiology department improvement, such as in dose surveillance and patient safety programs and image quality control initiatives. However, the assessment of relevant data for practice improvement must take into account several factors related to the informational environment, professional reality, and healthcare goals and mission. This chapter describes a method to examine and perform studies over a medical imaging repository. Moreover, a case study of a small hospital where the obtained results are discussed is shown.
A Review of Notifications Systems in Elder Care Environments
Authors: Nava-Muñoz Sandra , Morán Alberto L.
Published: October 2014

For more than a decade, notification systems to support the care of older adults in settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and homes have been developed. These systems aim to assist in the care process, trying to ensure the safety and wellness of the elderly, and thus to maintain or increase their quality of life. This chapter identifies challenges and areas of opportunity for the implementation of notification systems in these environments, considering a technological perspective. In this work, the authors firstly present a literature review of notification systems in the elderly care environments mentioned above. Subsequently, they propose a taxonomy to classify the reviewed works, and discuss a set of challenges and areas of opportunity that technology can offer in this environment. These areas of opportunity are projected as specific features in each of the identified healthcare environments.
Telehealth Implementation
Authors: DeVany Mary , Knobloch-Ludwig Karla , Penticoff Marilyn , Assimacopoulos Aris , Speedie Stuart
Published: October 2014

Improving the opportunity to access care by infectious disease specialists and improve the overall quality of care received is the core mission demonstrated by this clinic through the on-going and continued development of their telehealth services program. This focus does not remove the need for the clinic to adhere to sound business practices. Instead, this case demonstrates that both focuses can be appropriately accomplished. Current regulatory issues will continue to pose challenges, but these barriers are not significant enough to shut down the enthusiasm for continuing this service or for future expansion plans. This study will discuss the benefits of telehealth not only to patients, but also to the clinic practice as a whole.
Intensive Care
Authors: Van Genderen Eric
Published: October 2014

Customer-centric organizations are those firms that seek to gain a strategic advantage by focusing on the customer (as opposed to the firm, product line/service(s), processes, financial statements, etc), thereby more effectively offering goods/services that meet the needs and wants of the customer. As an industry, healthcare has the added challenge of needing to offer customized products/services that not only address the needs/wants of customers, but must also do so in an ethical and sensitive way. Patients availing the products/services of healthcare professionals, more-often-than-not, require psychological support in addition to the requisite physical care and/or treatment. It has been well established that one's psychological state has dramatic impact on the physical and vice versa. This case is set in the Middle East, and centers around the two main concepts of: 1). Customer-centric business practices, and 2). ethical healthcare behavior, respectively. The case, itself, is closely based on the author's first-hand experience. Identifying information has been modified so as not to reveal the identities of the institution, managing enterprise, or employees.
A New Era for Safety Measurement
Authors: Jones Sarahjane , Macintyre Mairi
Published: October 2014

This chapter presents current systems thinking concerning patient safety and explores what patient safety actually means, allowing a foundation for a critical review of tools used for safety measurement. Content considers a range of content from hard measures to softer cultural perspectives, thus ensuring that the patient view is not forgotten.
Development of an E-Healthcare Information Security Risk Assessment Method
Authors: Wei June , Lin Binshan , Loho-Noya Meiga
Published: October 2014

This paper developed a method to assess information security risks in e-healthcare. Specifically, it first developed a static E-Healthcare Information Security Risk (EHISR) model to present thirty-three security risk factors by identifying information security threats and their sources in e-healthcare. Second, a dynamic E-Healthcare Information Flow (EHIF) model was developed to logically link these information risk factors in the EHISR model. Pattern analysis showed that information security risks could be classified into two levels, and versatility analysis showed that the overall security risks for eight information flows were close with a range from 55% to 86%. Third, one quantifiable approach based on a relative-weighted assessment model was developed to demonstrate how to assess the information security risks in e-healthcare. This quantitative security risk measurement establishes a reference point for assessing e-healthcare security risks and assists managers in selecting a reliable information flow infrastructure with a lower security risk level.