bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drought Variability and Land Degradation in Semiarid Regions: Assessment Using Remote Sensing Data and Drought Indices (1982–2011)
Authors: Vicente-Serrano Sergio , Cabello Daniel , Tomás-Burguera Miquel , Martín-Hernández Natalia , Beguería Santiago , Azorin-Molina Cesar , Kenawy Ahmed
Published: April 2015

We analyzed potential land degradation processes in semiarid regions worldwide using long time series of remote sensing images and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) for the period 1981 to 2011. The objectives of the study were to identify semiarid regions showing a marked decrease in potential vegetation activity, indicative of the occurrence of land degradation processes, and to assess the possible influence of the observed drought trends quantified using the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI). We found that the NDVI values recorded during the period of maximum vegetation activity (NDVImax) predominantly showed a positive evolution in the majority of the semiarid regions assessed, but NDVImax was highly correlated with drought variability, and the trends of drought events influenced trends in NDVImax at the global scale. The semiarid regions that showed most increase in NDVImax (the Sahel, northern Australia, South Africa) were characterized by a clear positive trend in the SPEI values, indicative of conditions of greater humidity and lesser drought conditions. While changes in drought severity may be an important driver of NDVI trends and land degradation processes in semiarid regions worldwide, drought did not apparently explain some of the observed changes in NDVImax. This reflects the complexity of vegetation activity processes in the world’s semiarid regions, and the difficulty of defining a universal response to drought in these regions, where a number of factors (natural and anthropogenic) may also affect on land degradation.
L-Band SAR Backscatter Related to Forest Cover, Height and Aboveground Biomass at Multiple Spatial Scales across Denmark
Authors: Joshi Neha , Mitchard Edward , Schumacher Johannes , Johannsen Vivian , Saatchi Sassan , Fensholt Rasmus
Published: April 2015

Mapping forest aboveground biomass (AGB) using satellite data is an important task, particularly for reporting of carbon stocks and changes under climate change legislation. It is known that AGB can be mapped using synthetic aperture radar (SAR), but relationships between AGB and radar backscatter may be confounded by variations in biophysical forest structure (density, height or cover fraction) and differences in the resolution of satellite and ground data. Here, we attempt to quantify the effect of these factors by relating L-band ALOS PALSAR HV backscatter and unique country-wide LiDAR-derived maps of vegetation penetrability, height and AGB over Denmark at different spatial scales (50 m to 500 m). Trends in the relations indicate that, first, AGB retrieval accuracy from SAR improves most in mapping at 100-m scale instead of 50 m, and improvements are negligible beyond 250 m. Relative errors (bias and root mean squared error) decrease particularly for high AGB values (\(>\)110 Mg ha\(^{-1}\)) at coarse scales, and hence, coarse-scale mapping (\(\ge\)150 m) may be most suited for areas with high AGB. Second, SAR backscatter and a LiDAR-derived measure of fractional forest cover were found to have a strong linear relation (R\(^2\) = 0.79 at 250-m scale). In areas of high fractional forest cover, there is a slight decline in backscatter as AGB increases, indicating signal attenuation. The two results demonstrate that accounting for spatial scale and variations in forest structure, such as cover fraction, will greatly benefit establishing adequate plot-sizes for SAR calibration and the accuracy of derived AGB maps.
A Label-Free Immunosensor for Ultrasensitive Detection of Ketamine Based on Quartz Crystal Microbalance
Authors: Yang Ya , Tu Yifeng , Wang Xiaoshu , Pan Jinyin , Ding Yun
Published: April 2015

In this study, we have developed a label-free immunosensor with the variation of resonance frequency (Δf) of a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) as readout signal for ultrasensitive detection of Ketamine (KT). An optimized strategy for immobilization of KT antibody on the surface of the QCM chip was implemented via the self-assembly modification of 3-mercaptopropionic acid, and then activated with 1-ethyl-3- (3-dimethylaminoprophl) carbodiimide and n-hydroxysuccinimide. The specific affinity between the antibody and the antigen ensured a selective response toward KT. The Δf linearly related to the concentration of KT in the range of 1 to 40 pg/mL, with a detection limit of 0.86 pg/mL (S/N = 3). The obtained immunosensor was applied to detect the KT in spiked human urine without any pretreatment but dilution with recoveries from 91.8% to 108%. The developed sensor is promising to perform the portable or on-spot KT detection in clinic or forensic cases.
A Study of New Pulse Auscultation System
Authors: Chen Ying-Yun , Chang Rong-Seng
Published: April 2015

This study presents a new type of pulse auscultation system, which uses a condenser microphone to measure pulse sound waves on the wrist, captures the microphone signal for filtering, amplifies the useful signal and outputs it to an oscilloscope in analog form for waveform display and storage and delivers it to a computer to perform a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) and convert the pulse sound waveform into a heartbeat frequency. Furthermore, it also uses an audio signal amplifier to deliver the pulse sound by speaker. The study observed the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine’s pulsing techniques, where pulse signals at places called “cun”, “guan” and “chi” of the left hand were measured during lifting (100 g), searching (125 g) and pressing (150 g) actions. Because the system collects the vibration sound caused by the pulse, the sensor itself is not affected by the applied pressure, unlike current pulse piezoelectric sensing instruments, therefore, under any kind of pulsing pressure, it displays pulse changes and waveforms with the same accuracy. We provide an acquired pulse and waveform signal suitable for Chinese Medicine practitioners’ objective pulse diagnosis, thus providing a scientific basis for this Traditional Chinese Medicine practice. This study also presents a novel circuit design using an active filtering method. An operational amplifier with its differential features eliminates the interference from external signals, including the instant high-frequency noise. In addition, the system has the advantages of simple circuitry, cheap cost and high precision.
Leadership and Learning: Conceptualizing Relations between School Administrative Practice and Instructional Practice
Authors: Spillane James
Published: April 2015

In this paper I argue that one problem we face in understanding relations between school leadership and student learning is that core constructs in our work are often variably and weakly defined. Loose constructs pose problems because they contribute to fuzzy research, especially if constructs such as school leadership, management, or even instruction are weakly (or never explicitly) defined and operationalized. Fuzzy conceptualization makes comparing across studies, essential to the development of a robust empirical knowledge base, difficult if not impossible. Arguing that a critical but often overlooked challenge in studying relations between school administration and student learning is conceptual in nature, I begin by conceptualizing school administration and instruction from what I refer to as a distributed perspective, using theoretical work in distributed and situated cognition, activity theory, and micro sociology. I show how conceptualizing phenomena under study in particular ways shapes how we might frame and hypothesize relations among these phenomena. I contrast a distributed conceptualization with more conventional, individually focused conceptualizations of both phenomena. I then consider the entailments of my conceptualization of the two core phenomena for framing relations between them.
Performative Criminology and the “State of Play” for Theatre with Criminalized Women
Authors: Merrill Elise , Frigon Sylvie
Published: April 2015

This article applies feminist theory with cultural criminology to explore the role of theatre in the lives of criminalized women. Theatre initiatives for criminalized populations are growing worldwide, and so we are seeking to better understand how these two realms intersect. This article is based on a case study which was conducted at the Clean Break Theatre Company in London, England in the summer of 2013. We explore some of the emerging themes, which took shape from a thematic analysis. First we describe how theatre can be used as a lens into the experiences of criminalized women, and then as a tool for growth in their lives. The role of environment at Clean Break, and the role of voice from practicing theatre in a women-only environment are then discussed. Lastly, the roles of transformation and growth overall for the participants are explored in relation to their experiences with theatre practices. This article works to understand how theatre practices can elevate and adapt cultural criminology into a new form of imaginative criminology, and questions how we can embrace this form of engagement between theatre and criminology within a Canadian context.
Exploration of the Intersectoral Relations Based on Input-Output Tables in the Inland River Basin of China
Authors: Shi Qingling , Deng Xiangzheng , Shi Chenchen , Chen Shiyi
Published: April 2015

The conflict among natural resources, environment and economic development is one of the major problems to be solved in the current world. Sustainable development is a powerful tool on the way toward seeking for harmonious development. Due to a lack of resources and fragility in ecosystems, the Inland River Basin of China is facing a serious problem that needs to be solved. In this paper, northwest China is chosen as the study area. Based on the interregional input-output table of China for the years 2002 and 2007 and the provincial input-output table of 2007, the I-O table analysis method was adopted to calculate the influence coefficient and response coefficient of the five provinces in northwest China. Through the analysis of the results, the intersectoral relation has been investigated, which could lend some credence for seeking effective ways for sustainable development in western China. The research findings indicate that the tertiary industry and construction sector are capable of greatly driving the national economic development in northwest China and, thus, should be developed preferentially.
Exergy, Economic and Environmental Analysis for Simple and Combined Heat and Power IC Engines
Authors: Aliehyaei Mehdi , Atabi Farideh , Khorshidvand Mohammad , Rosen Marc
Published: April 2015

This study reports the results of exergy, economic and environmental analyses of simple and combined heat and power internal combustion engines. Values of entropy production, second law efficiency are calculated, and an objective function, including initial, operation, maintenance and fuel costs, as well as the external costs of environmental pollutants, such as CO2, CO and NOx, are presented for the flue gas of the internal combustion engine. The results show that entropy generation in the combined heat and power mode is 30% lower than that in the simple internal combustion engine. Also, by excessively increasing the air ratio, the system entropy generation decreases in both cases of simple and combined heat and power IC engines. The greatest portion of entropy generation is related to the combined heat and power internal combustion engine. The gas heat exchanger generates more entropy than the jacket heat exchanger. Lower values of electricity cost and external costs of air pollution are provided by higher values of molar air to fuel ratio. The environmental aspects depend on location of the system and time of engine operation.
Everywhere Equivalent 2-Component Links
Authors: Stoimenow Alexander
Published: April 2015

A link diagram is said to be (orientedly) everywhere equivalent if all the diagramsobtained by switching one crossing represent the same (oriented) link. We classify suchdiagrams of two components.
Live and Let Die: Roles of Autophagy in Cadmium Nephrotoxicity
Authors: Thévenod Frank , Lee Wing-Kee
Published: April 2015

The transition metal ion cadmium (Cd2+) is a significant environmental contaminant. With a biological half-life of ~20 years, Cd2+ accumulates in the kidney cortex, where it particularly damages proximal tubule (PT) cells and can result in renal fibrosis, failure, or cancer. Because death represents a powerful means by which cells avoid malignant transformation, it is crucial to clearly identify and understand the pathways that determine cell fate in chronic Cd2+ nephrotoxicity. When cells are subjected to stress, they make a decision to adapt and survive, or—depending on the magnitude and duration of stress—to die by several modes of death (programmed cell death), including autophagic cell death (ACD). Autophagy is part of a larger system of intracellular protein degradation and represents the channel by which organelles and long-lived proteins are delivered to the lysosome for degradation. Basal autophagy levels in all eukaryotic cells serve as a dynamic physiological recycling system, but they can also be induced by intra- or extracellular stress and pathological processes, such as endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. In a context-dependent manner, autophagy can either be protective and hence contribute to survival, or promote death by non-apoptotic or apoptotic pathways. So far, the role of autophagy in Cd2+-induced nephrotoxicity has remained unsettled due to contradictory results. In this review, we critically survey the current literature on autophagy in Cd2+-induced nephrotoxicity in light of our own ongoing studies. Data obtained in kidney cells illustrate a dual and complex function of autophagy in a stimulus- and time-dependent manner that possibly reflects distinct outcomes in vitro and in vivo. A better understanding of the context-specific regulation of cell fate by autophagy may ultimately contribute to the development of preventive and novel therapeutic strategies for acute and chronic Cd2+ nephrotoxicity.
Genetics, Genomics and Evolution of Ergot Alkaloid Diversity
Authors: Young Carolyn , Schardl Christopher , Panaccione Daniel , Florea Simona , Takach Johanna , Charlton Nikki , Moore Neil , Webb Jennifer , Jaromczyk Jolanta
Published: April 2015

The ergot alkaloid biosynthesis system has become an excellent model to study evolutionary diversification of specialized (secondary) metabolites. This is a very diverse class of alkaloids with various neurotropic activities, produced by fungi in several orders of the phylum Ascomycota, including plant pathogens and protective plant symbionts in the family Clavicipitaceae. Results of comparative genomics and phylogenomic analyses reveal multiple examples of three evolutionary processes that have generated ergot-alkaloid diversity: gene gains, gene losses, and gene sequence changes that have led to altered substrates or product specificities of the enzymes that they encode (neofunctionalization). The chromosome ends appear to be particularly effective engines for gene gains, losses and rearrangements, but not necessarily for neofunctionalization. Changes in gene expression could lead to accumulation of various pathway intermediates and affect levels of different ergot alkaloids. Genetic alterations associated with interspecific hybrids of Epichloë species suggest that such variation is also selectively favored. The huge structural diversity of ergot alkaloids probably represents adaptations to a wide variety of ecological situations by affecting the biological spectra and mechanisms of defense against herbivores, as evidenced by the diverse pharmacological effects of ergot alkaloids used in medicine.
Role of Acidic Residues in Helices TH8–TH9 in Membrane Interactions of the Diphtheria Toxin T Domain
Authors: Ghatak Chiranjib , Rodnin Mykola , Vargas-Uribe Mauricio , McCluskey Andrew , Flores-Canales Jose , Kurnikova Maria , Ladokhin Alexey
Published: April 2015

The pH-triggered membrane insertion of the diphtheria toxin translocation domain (T domain) results in transferring the catalytic domain into the cytosol, which is relevant to potential biomedical applications as a cargo-delivery system. Protonation of residues is suggested to play a key role in the process, and residues E349, D352 and E362 are of particular interest because of their location within the membrane insertion unit TH8–TH9. We have used various spectroscopic, computational and functional assays to characterize the properties of the T domain carrying the double mutation E349Q/D352N or the single mutation E362Q. Vesicle leakage measurements indicate that both mutants interact with the membrane under less acidic conditions than the wild-type. Thermal unfolding and fluorescence measurements, complemented with molecular dynamics simulations, suggest that the mutant E362Q is more susceptible to acid destabilization because of disruption of native intramolecular contacts. Fluorescence experiments show that removal of the charge in E362Q, and not in E349Q/D352N, is important for insertion of TH8–TH9. Both mutants adopt a final functional state upon further acidification. We conclude that these acidic residues are involved in the pH-dependent action of the T domain, and their replacements can be used for fine tuning the pH range of membrane interactions.
Evaluating Environmental Persistence and Disinfection of the Ebola Virus Makona Variant
Authors: Cook Bradley , Cutts Todd , Nikiforuk Aidan , Poliquin Philip , Court Deborah , Strong James , Theriault Steven
Published: April 2015

Background: The current disease outbreak caused by the Ebola virus Makona variant (EBOV/Mak) has led to unprecedented morbidity and lethality given its geographic reach and sustained transmission. Sodium hypochlorite and ethanol are well-accepted decontamination agents, however little published evidence supports the selection of appropriate concentrations and contact times. The present study addresses the environmental robustness of EBOV/Mak and evaluates the effectiveness of sodium hypochlorite and ethanol as disinfectants. Methods: EBOV/Mak was suspended in a simulated organic soil load and dried onto surfaces. Viability was measured at 1 hour, 24 hours, 72 hours, and 192 hours. For the evaluation of disinfectants, EBOV/Mak in a simulated organic soil was dried onto stainless steel carriers and disinfected with 0.01% (v/v), 0.1% (v/v), 0.5% (v/v) and 1% (v/v) sodium hypochlorite solutions or 67% (v/v) ethanol at contact times of 1, 5 or 10 minutes. Results: EBOV/Mak persisted longer on steel and plastic surfaces (192 hours) than cotton (<24 hours). Dilute sodium hypochlorite (0.01% and 0.1%) showed little antiviral action, whereas 0.5% and 1% sodium hypochlorite solutions demonstrated recoverable virus at one minute but sterilized surfaces in five minutes. Disinfection with 67% ethanol did not fully clear infectious virions from 3/9 carriers at 1 minute but sterilized all carriers at 5 and 10 minutes. Conclusions: Sodium hypochlorite and ethanol effectively decontaminate EBOV/Mak suspended in a simulated organic load; however, selection of concentration and contact time proves critical.
Caladenia revisited: Results of molecular phylogenetic analyses of Caladeniinae plastid and nuclear loci
Authors: Clements Mark A. , Howard Christopher G. , Miller Joseph T.
Published: April 2015

• Premise of the study: The classification of the primarily Australasian group of orchids Caladenia and allied genera (Caladeniinae: Diurideae) containing 71 federally listed threatened species has proven controversial. Analyzing these species using genetic material will provide a sound basis for their classification and the capacity to ensure accurate conservation measures can be implemented.

• Methods: We present a multigene analysis based on nuclear ribosomal ITS and five plastid regions from 54 species representing all major taxonomic groups within Caladeniinae.

• Key results: In our combined analysis, apart from Leptoceras and Praecoxanthus, all Caladenia ingroup taxa form a strongly supported clade that is also supported by morphological synapomorphies (parallel leaf venation; leaf solitary, lanceolate, covered with glandular or eglandular trichomes). Characters and character states historically used to delimit taxa were revealed to be homoplasious and therefore do not support recognition of Arachnorchis, Cyanicula, Drakonorchis, Ericksonella, Jonesiopsis, Petalochilus, Pheladenia, and Stegostyla as previously proposed. Glossodia and Elythranthera are shown to be a specialist group embedded within Caladenia.

• Conclusions: Based on our results, none of the current systems of classification of the subtribe is satisfactory. Instead our results point to Lindley's 1840 interpretation of Caladenia, but including Glossodia and Elythranthera, as being the most accurate reflection of the group. Accordingly, a renewed reclassification of Caladeniinae is proposed as well as several new combinations.
Automatic morphological characterization of nanobubbles with a novel image segmentation method and its application in the study of nanobubble coalescence
Authors: Wang Yuliang , Wang Huimin , Bi Shusheng , Guo Bin
Published: April 2015

Nanobubbles (NBs) on hydrophobic surfaces in aqueous solvents have shown great potential in numerous applications. In this study, the morphological characterization of NBs in AFM images was carried out with the assistance of a novel image segmentation method. The method combines the classical threshold method and a modified, active contour method to achieve optimized image segmentation. The image segmentation results obtained with the classical threshold method and the proposed, modified method were compared. With the modified method, the diameter, contact angle, and radius of curvature were automatically measured for all NBs in AFM images. The influence of the selection of the threshold value on the segmentation result was discussed. Moreover, the morphological change in the NBs was studied in terms of density, covered area, and volume occurring during coalescence under external disturbance.
CHANGING PERIPHERY OF THE BALTIC CITIES: LITHUANIAN CASE
Authors: Cirtautas Matas
Published: April 2015

Urban sprawl is one of the dominant types of urban development in the world. Although outer growth started from the outset of cities, urban researchers, planners and policy makers are highly concerned about its current extent. Recent development of the Baltic cities and especially trends of their suburban growth have been analysed only partly, because of the relative novelty of the phenomenon and well-established dominance of western cities in the field. This paper attempts to fill this gap and presents a research on conditions and consequences of extensive development of Lithuanian cities. Evidences from the recent growth of the Baltic cities show that decline and sprawl take place simultaneously in major urban regions with possible long-term consequences on their spatial structure. Therefore, this article advocates a need to revise urban policy in the Baltic countries and promote coordinated development of urban and suburban areas in the context of prevailing negative demographic trends and limited capacity of central and local governments to interfere in urban development processes.
EXPLORATION AND RESPECTATION OF THE SPATIAL STRUCTURE OF CITIES, TOWNS, TOWNSHIPS AND VILLAGES AS A SIGNIFICANT FORMANT OF THEIR IDENTITY
Authors: Dringelis Liucijus , Ramanauskas Evaldas , Povilaitienė Ingrida , Mačiukėnaitė Justina
Published: April 2015

Under the conditions of globalization and integration the issue of identity preservation with respect to the spatial structure of the Lithuanian cities, towns, townships and villages has been discussed by many authors. The need to protect the originality and identity of landscape in the countries of the world, their natural and cultural heritage, the spatial structure and architecture of the cities, towns, townships and villages under such complicated circumstances is considered in a number of national and international documents. On the basis of the carried out indoor research and field exploration the paper aims at the discussion of the most significant urbanistic, architectural, landscape and other features that form the specificity and identity of the Lithuanian cities, towns, townships and villages. The following specific features of the settlements have been analysed: the period when a settlement emerged, its visual interaction with the environment (panoramas, silhouettes), natural conditions (terrain line, water bodies, green spaces), plan and spatial structure (street network, building arrangement, squares, green spaces, etc.) and significant buildings (sacred, public and other buildings and constructions). Due to their significance and uniqueness all the mentioned features form the identity of the analysed object. The following objects were selected for the research: all towns (103), townships (249), church villages (301), villages as local administrative centres (97) and ordinary villages with adequate natural and cultural heritage (318), in all 1.068 settlements, or 5% from the total number of the country's settlements (21.043).

On the basis of the carried out research, the paper analyses the historical development of Lithuanian cities, towns, townships and villages; the current demographical and urban status of the country's settlement system; defines the principles of settlement selection and identity research methods; discusses the research progress and the results obtained during the exploration of the specificity of the spatial structure of cities, towns, townships and villages. The analysis of the spatial structure of the country's largest cities has also been presented which reveals the violations of their most specific features (e.g. old towns, river valleys, etc.). The paper also offers a comparative analysis of the specificity of Lithuanian cities, towns, townships and villages and adequate types of settlements in foreign countries.
New distributional data on aquatic and semiaquatic bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Gerromorpha & Nepomorpha) from South America
Authors: Cordeiro Isabelle , Moreira Felipe
Published: April 2015

Water bugs in general play an important role in freshwater ecosystems, and knowledge about them is essential for the study of water biology and the proper management of aquatic habitats. The Neotropical fauna is relatively well known, but the existence of large under-collected areas makes taxonomic and faunistic studies concerning the aquatic and semiaquatic bugs from tropical America urgent.

Distributional information is presented for thirty-eight species of Gerromorpha and five Nepomorpha, including first records from the Brazilian states of Bahia (Mesovelia amoena), Ceará (Limnogonus profugus and Rhagovelia whitei), Espírito Santo (R. lucida), Goiás (Halobatopsis platensis and R. zela), Mato Grosso (Rheumatobates bonariensis), Pará (Nerthra terrestris), Paraná (H. spiniventris, Hydrometra fruhstorferi and R. janeira), Piauí (Microvelia ayacuchana, M. pulchella, Neogerris lubricus and Platyvelia brachialis), Rio de Janeiro (Martarega bentoi) and São Paulo (Rheumatobates minutus flavidus); and the Peruvian region of Madre de Dios (Rhagovelia fontanalis).
Use, consumption and knowledge of new technologies by elderly people in France, United Kingdom and Spain
Authors: González-Oñate Cristina , Fanjul-Peyró Carlos , Cabezuelo-Lorenzo Francisco
Published: April 2015

Our population is ageing very quickly. This increase is added to the rapid, exponential breakthrough of new technologies in our everyday lives. These two factors are generating great interest and many studies have been published on how information technology and communication simultaneously exist in ageing western societies. This paper analyses the main habits of use and consumption of new technologies by older people, in particular, the level of knowledge and their level of education. The purpose is to analyse whether the technological skills of our elderly are sufficient, as well as to know if the audio-visual resources are appropriate. This study wants to know if the ageing society is prepared to handle everything the internet has to offer. This study has taken place in three countries of the European Union: the United Kingdom, France and Spain. An attempt is made to generate comparisons and conclusions that help to increase the opportunities and to take on challenges of our current digital society. This study has used a methodology based on surveys which collect information on the use and habits in the three countries and the level of media literacy, as well as the interest of our elderly in training in new technologies.

La población está envejeciendo de una manera muy rápida. A esta realidad hay que añadir el exponencial y rápido avance de las nuevas tecnologías en nuestras vidas cotidianas. Este binomio está generando gran interés y muchos son los estudios sobre la convivencia de las tecnologías de la información y de la comunicación en los diferentes colectivos de las envejecidas sociedades occidentales. Este trabajo analiza los principales hábitos de uso y consumo de las nuevas tecnologías en las personas mayores pero, sobre todo, el nivel de conocimiento y preparación que tienen. La finalidad es comprobar si la competencia mediática en materia tecnológica de nuestros mayores es la adecuada, así como conocer la adecuación de la oferta audiovisual actual. Este trabajo quiere responder a la cuestión de si los públicos de una sociedad europea envejecida están preparados ante la gran oferta online. Con este fin, se estudian los datos de tres grandes países de la Unión Europea como son Francia, Reino Unido y España, intentando establecer comparaciones y conclusiones que ayuden a aumentar las oportunidades y retos de nuestra actual sociedad digital. Para ello, se ha utilizado una metodología basada en encuestas de elaboración propia en los tres países en las que se retratan tanto los hábitos de uso y consumo como el nivel de competencia mediática, así como el interés o no por parte de los mayores en la formación en las nuevas tecnologías.
Using technology to connect generations: Some considerations of form and function
Authors: Sánchez-Martínez Mariano , Kaplan Matthew , Bradley Leah
Published: April 2015

Nowadays, as ageing increases in Western societies it has become more evident that multiple generations are ageing concurrently at any given time in history. Therefore, ageing must be approached as a multi-generational phenomenon, not just as a question of elders. In this context, situations that engender increased interactions between generations are garnering more attention. There is a growing emphasis on expanding the role of technology in intergenerational programmes, within the field of intergenerational studies. Consequently, this paper is focused on education and learning processes within intergenerational programmes with a strong technology component. Information from a total of 46 intergenerational programmes from 11 countries has been gathered through a survey. Level of impact, status of generational groups, and centrality of technology have been appraised for all programmes in the sample. Technology learning-teaching constitute the main area of intended impact of these programmes. However, the surveyed programmes employ as well a wide range of strategies to facilitate intergenerational communication, cooperation and relationship formation between generations involved. Interest of programmes examined does not just consist of teaching the use technology but of experimenting with technology in different forms and functions and exploring the positive potential for enhancing intergenerational relationships

Actualmente, conforme el envejecimiento en las sociedades occidentales aumenta, resulta más evidente que en cualquier momento histórico dado hay varias generaciones envejeciendo simultáneamente. Por tanto, el envejecimiento debe ser estudiado como fenómeno multi-generacional y no solo como un asunto de personas mayores. En este contexto, están suscitando más atención las situaciones que implican más interacciones intergeneracionales. Dentro del campo intergeneracional está aumentando el interés en torno a las posibilidades de expandir el papel de la tecnología en los programas intergeneracionales. En consecuencia, este artículo se centra en los procesos de educación y aprendizaje acaecidos dentro de programas intergeneracionales con un fuerte componente tecnológico. Mediante un sondeo se recogió información sobre un total de 46 de este tipo de programas de 11 países. Todos se han evaluado en la muestra según su nivel de impacto, el estatus de los grupos generacionales y la centralidad de la tecnología. La enseñanza-aprendizaje de la tecnología constituye la principal área de impacto buscada por estos programas, que, no obstante, también utilizan una amplia variedad de estrategias para facilitar la comunicación, la cooperación y la formación de relaciones intergeneracionales entre las generaciones implicadas. El interés de los programas analizados no solo consiste en enseñar a utilizar la tecnología sino en experimentar diferentes formas y funciones con ella, así como en explorar el potencial positivo de la tecnología para mejorar las relaciones intergeneracionales
Mexican children and American cartoons: Foreign references in animation
Authors: Cornelio-Marí Elia-Margarita
Published: April 2015

This audience study explores how a group of children from Southeast Mexico, perceive the animated cartoon «Dexter’s Laboratory». The objective is to observe the ways in which a young local audience, still in the process of building its cultural identity, perceives an American television program. A qualitative approach was applied: 44 children between 8 and 11 years old participated in a series of semi-structured interviews and focus groups, which took place in a provincial city in Mexico (Villahermosa, Tabasco). In each session, the participants watched an episode of the cartoon dubbed into Latin Spanish. Afterwards, it was assessed if they were able to notice cultural elements present in the series (texts in English, traditions, ways of life, symbols, etc.), which are different from their own culture. It was also observed if age, gender and social background had any impact on the degree of awareness. The results showed that most of the participants were aware of beingthat they were watching a foreign program, that they could recognize elements of American culture and that they applied diverse strategies to make sense of these foreign narratives. Older children, and those studying English as a second language, were able to make more sophisticated comparisons between the cultures of Mexico and the United States.

Este estudio sobre audiencias explora cómo un grupo de niños del sureste de México perciben los dibujos animados de «El laboratorio de Dexter». El objetivo primordial es conocer la manera en que un programa norteamericano distribuido internacionalmente es entendido por una audiencia local, especialmente por una conformada por individuos que aún están construyendo su identidad cultural. Se utilizó un enfoque cualitativo: un total de 44 niños en edades entre los 8 y 11 años participaron en una serie de entrevistas semi-estructuradas y grupos de discusión, que se llevaron a cabo en una ciudad de la provincia mexicana (Villahermosa, Tabasco). En cada sesión se observó un episodio de la serie animada doblada al español latino. Posteriormente, se evaluó si los participantes sabían que los dibujos animados eran norteamericanos y si notaban la presencia de elementos culturales diferentes respecto a su propia cultura (textos escritos en inglés, referencias a tradiciones, estilo de vida, símbolos, etc.). Asimismo, se indagó si la edad, el género y estrato social de proveniencia influían en esta percepción. Los resultados muestran que la mayoría de los participantes eran conscientes de estar viendo un programa extranjero, reconocían elementos de la cultura norteamericana y aplicaban diversas estrategias para crear sentido a estas narrativas. Niños mayores, y aquellos que estudian el idioma inglés, fueron capaces de realizar comparaciones más sofisticadas entre las culturas de México y Estados Unidos.
ICT leadership in Higher Education: A multiple case study in Colombia
Authors: Cifuentes-Álvarez Gary , Vanderlinde Ruben
Published: April 2015

In this paper we analyze ICT integration in higher education institutions focusing on the leadership practices of ICT policies, a research field that has not received much attention in higher education studies. An empirical study was carried out using a distributed leadership approach to analyze such practice in higher education institutions in Colombia, a country where a national ICT policy has steered and promoted ICT policy plans. In particular, the inquiry attempted to understand how the leadership of ICT is distributed in different higher education environments. Through a multiple case study, that included semi-structured interviews with leaders and team members, focus groups with professors, document analysis and a survey applied to faculty members ICT leadership practices and their implications were investigated. The results indicate a set of struggles that leaders have to cope with when deploying an ICT policy plan, for instance, coping with a lack of institutional regulations, and fostering educational change despite reluctance. Indeed, ICT leadership is a challenging and underexplored practice in higher education. This paper is a systematic attempt to demonstrate this statement and its implications. These findings are of particular relevance for the work of policy makers, ICT coordinators and leaders in higher education around the world.

En este artículo analizamos la integración de las TIC en instituciones de educación superior. Nos centramos en las prácticas de liderazgo en políticas sobre TIC, un campo de investigación que no ha recibido mucha atención en los estudios sobre educación superior. Usando un enfoque de liderazgo distribuido se analizó dicha práctica en instituciones de educación superior en Colombia, un país donde una política de incorporación de las TIC llevó a promover la elaboración de planes estratégicos en dichas instituciones. En particular, la investigación buscó entender cómo el liderazgo de las TIC es distribuido en diferentes ambientes de educación superior. A partir de un estudio de caso múltiple que incluyó entrevistas semiestructuradas con líderes y miembros de equipos, grupos focales con profesores, análisis documental y una encuesta aplicada a profesores, fueron investigadas las prácticas de liderazgo de las TIC y sus implicaciones. Los resultados indican un conjunto de tensiones que los líderes deben enfrentar cuando incorporan un plan estratégico de TIC, por ejemplo, la ausencia de regulaciones institucionales o la necesidad de promocionar el cambio educativo a pesar de las resistencias. De hecho, el liderazgo de las TIC es una práctica retadora y aún poco explorada en educación superior. Este artículo es un intento sistemático por demostrar este enunciado y sus implicaciones. Estos hallazgos son de particular relevancia para el trabajo de los diseñadores de políticas, coordinadores de TIC y líderes en educación superior de todo el mundo.
Le Mystère d’Israël selon les textes Alexandrin et Occidental des Actes des Apôtres
Authors: Faure Patrick
Published: April 2015

La récente reconstitution critique du Texte Occidental (TO) des Actes des Apôtres est étonnamment cohérente, vu l’état fragmentaire des manuscrits. Comparé au Texte Alexandrin (TA) qui fait aujourd’hui référence, le TO se révèle antérieur. Il est aussi plus cohérent avec le troisième évangile et relève du même auteur principal, traditionnellement saint Luc. Le TO maintient que l’Israël endurci reste élu, dans une relation ouverte avec l’Église, car destiné à recevoir un jour l’Évangile. Le TA est une révision du TO, et vise au rejet d’Israël par Dieu, ainsi qu’à la rupture avec l’Église. Mais le TA reste ambivalent à cause des traces qu’il garde du TO. Deux intentions théologiques opposées gouvernent ainsi deux visions de l’avenir et du retour glorieux du Christ.
Le fondateur de l’ Opus Dei dans la guerre d’Espagne (Josémaria Escriva de Balaguer, 1902-1975)
Authors: Gondrand François
Published: April 2015

Les lettres et carnets du fondateur de l’ Opus Dei , Josémaria Escriva, révélés récemment par un de ses biographes, Andrés Vazquez de Prada, témoignent du vécu des catholiques espagnols au temps de la Deuxième République, jusqu’à sa chute à l’issue de la guerre civile. Ils apportent aussi un éclairage inédit sur les premières années de l’ Opus Dei , que certains ont prétendu lier à cette période de l’histoire d’Espagne ou à celle qui a suivi, au risque de tomber dans l’anachronisme et l’amalgame.
Essai sur l’avenir de la vie consacrée en Occident
Authors: Hausman Noëlle
Published: April 2015

« Où va la vie consacrée ? », demande ingénument le titre de l’ouvrage qui est à l’origine de cet article. Là où elle s’est toujours trouvée, est-il répondu, c’est-à-dire au cœur de Dieu. Mais aussi, et c’est moins aperçu, la vie consacrée va là où va l’Église, le devenir de l’une étant, même et surtout en Occident, inséparable de l’avenir de l’autre. Au terme, on indique encore comment la vie consacrée peut se trouver au cœur du monde que nous aimons.
L’Apocalypse revisitée
Authors: Nardin Martine
Published: April 2015

Des siècles de commentaires n’ont pas fini d’élucider ce livre énigmatique et fascinant qu’est l’Apocalypse. À quelle question répond ce livre ? Quel message délivre-t-il ? L’étude de la structure permet de déceler le rôle-clé joué par une supplication (6,10) qui commande toutes les réponses. Face au scandale des chrétiens d’Asie devant la mort des « immolés », Jean répond en effet par une théologie du martyre (ch. 11) qui débouche sur une théologie pascale de l’histoire. À leur tour, l’étude des grandes symboliques structurantes — le livre (ch. 4 –11) et la femme (ch. 12 –22) — et celle des relectures scripturaires de l’A. viennent confirmer cet éclairage et manifester le plein accord de l’Apocalypse avec le reste du Nouveau Testament.
Eucharistie et transsubstantiation : du bon usage d’un concept
Authors: Salamolard Michel
Published: April 2015

L’Église catholique juge avec raison que « transsubstantiation » est un concept clé pour rendre compte du mystère eucharistique dans une de ses composantes essentielles : la « présence réelle ». Celle-ci est elle-même au cœur de la compréhension et, partant, d’une pratique authentique de l’eucharistie. Mais ce langage a fait et continue de faire problème. L’A. s’efforce ici de replacer la transsubstantiation dans une perspective qui prend en compte certaines évolutions de la théologie, telle qu’elles apparaissent notamment dans plusieurs documents récents du magistère.
La réciprocité au cœur de la structuration et du fonctionnement de l’Économie sociale et solidaire
Authors: Castel Odile
Published: April 2015

Les activités de l’ESS sont fondées sur le principe de comportement économique de réciprocité. Ce principe sous-tend leur raison d’être qui serait de proposer un projet politique alternatif. Leur fonctionnement s’appuie sur trois formes de réciprocité : la réciprocité inégalitaire, entre pairs et multilatérale, qui rentrent en interactions dynamiques avec les activités capitalistes et/ou étatiques. Dans ces relations, la réciprocité peut-être intégratrice ou au contraire instrumentalisée par les autres principes de comportement économique. Cette analyse montre que l’ESS serait un concept opératoire.
Mouvements longs Kondratieff, transformations institutionnelles et performances du capitalisme
Authors: Bosserelle Éric
Published: April 2015

Cet article se propose de mettre en rapport le couple institutions/performances et mouvements longs Kondratieff. Il prend pour point de départ la phase de croissance molle et de difficultés économiques majeures qui affecte les économies capitalistes depuis le début des années 1970 (phase B du Kondratieff) et dont l’étendue ne peut manquer de susciter des interrogations. Celle-ci fait suite à la longue phase expansive qui s’est déployée de 1945 à 1973 (phase A du Kondratieff), au cours de laquelle les performances enregistrées par les économies capitalistes ont été tout à fait exceptionnelles. S’il est un fait que ces performances sont directement liées aux profondes mutations institutionnelles qui sont intervenues entre 1920 et 1939/45, un retour sur cette période nous conduit à nous interroger sur la place essentielle occupée par les guerres dans ces transformations, une question qui a peu retenu l’attention des économistes.
Philosophy and Theology in an Oral Culture: Renaissance Humanists and Renaissance Scholastics
Authors: Edelheit Amos
Published: April 2015

Dans cet article nous examinons les tensions dialectiques entre les humanistes renaissants et les scolastiques renaissants telles qu’elles sont représentées dans la culture orale des sermons, des conférences universitaires et des débats publics à Florence à la fin du Quattrocento . Nous tâchons de montrer comment cette culture orale reflète d’importants aspects de ce nouvel environnement que nous intitulons « la Renaissance » et qui ne correspond pas toujours à certaines notions historiographiques populaires surannées d’un mouvement laïc et antireligieux. Les sermons prononcés au sein des fraternités religieuses par des humanistes tels que Francesco Berlinghieri, Giovanni Cocchi, Christoforo Landino, entre autres, constituent le principal objet d’étude de notre première partie ; nous examinons ensuite l’un des documents les plus importants de la Renaissance : De la dignité de l’homme de Pic de la Mirandole. Dans notre deuxième partie nous nous penchons sur la réaction de Giovanni Caroli au projet de Pic et dressons une comparaison entre les deux en abordant les intentions et méthodes qui distinguent leurs approches respectives de la philosophie et de la théologie.
Lactobacillus fermentum NS9 restores the antibiotic induced physiological and psychological abnormalities in rats
Authors: Wang T. , Hu X. , Liang S. , Li W. , Wu X. , Wang L. , Jin F.
Published: April 2015

Gut microbiota play a vital role in maintaining the health of the host. Many factors affect gut microbiota; application of broad range antibiotics disturb microbiota, while probiotic application protects the microbiota. To investigate how probiotics alter the physiological and psychological changes induced by antibiotics, we tested the performance of ampicillin-treated rats in the presence or absence of Lactobacillus fermentum strain NS9, in elevated plus maze and Morris water maze. The results showed that NS9 normalised the composition of gut microbiota and alleviated the ampicillin-induced inflammation in the colon. The levels of the mineralocorticoid and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors were also elevated in the hippocampus of the ampillicin+NS9 treated group. NS9 administration also reduced the anxiety-like behaviour and alleviated the ampicillin-induced impairment in memory retention. These findings suggest that NS9 is beneficial to the host, because it restores the physiological and psychological abnormalities induced by ampicillin. Our results highlight how gut contents regulate the brain, and shed light on the clinical applications of probiotics to treat the side effect of antibiotics and mental disorders.