bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Could there be an association between chronic brucellosis and endothelial damage?
Authors: Togan Turhan , Ciftci Ozgur , Turan Hale , Narci Huseyin , Gullu Hakan , Arslan Hande
Published: January 2015

Introduction: In this study, we examined the effects of Brucella infection on endothelial dysfunction. Flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) measurement is indicator of the endothelial function, and abnormal values indicating endothelial dysfunction are accepted as the first stage of atherosclerosis. Methodology: Twenty-four patients who had been treated for acute brucellosis two years before, and who had had no relapses in the follow-up, were prospectively included in the study, along with 30 healthy individuals in the control group. Results: While the highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) value was 2.42 ± 1.45 in the patient group, it was 1.72 ± 0.61 in the control group (p = 0.025). While the FMD value was 3.50 ± 1.58 in the patient group, it was 5.88 ± 1.88 in the control group (p < 0.001). While the percentage increase in FMD was 9.88 ± 4.92 in the patient group, it was 17.49 ± 6.3 in the control group (p < 0.001). It was observed that FMD value, the percentage increase in FMD, and basal radius were correlated with hs-CRP (r = -0.644, p < 0.001; r = - 0.558, p = 0.002; r = 0.444, p = 0.018, respectively). The carotid artery intima media thickness (IMT) value was found to be 0.61 ± 0.17 in the patient group and 0.49 ± 0.12 in the control group (p = 0.004). Conclusions: The abnormal FMD and IMT values observed in brucellosis patients might be an indicator of more frequent arterial dysfunction, increased cardiovascular risk, and atherosclerosis.
Potential spread of multidrug-resistant coagulase-negative staphylococci through healthcare waste
Authors: Nascimento Thiago César , Da Silva Vânia Lúcia , Ferreira-Machado Alessandra Barbosa , Diniz Cláudio Galuppo
Published: January 2015

Introduction: Healthcare waste (HCW) might potentially harbor infective viable microorganisms in sanitary landfills. We investigated the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and the occurrence of the mecA gene in coagulase-negative Staphylococcus strains (CoNS) recovered from the leachate of the HCW in an untreated sanitary landfill. Methodology: Bacterial identification was performed by physiological and molecular approaches, and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of antimicrobial drugs were determined by the agar dilution method according to CLSI guidelines. All oxacillin-resistant bacteria were screened for the mecA gene. Results: Out of 73 CoNS, seven different species were identified by 16S rDNA sequencing: Staphylococcus felis (64.4%; n = 47), Staphylococcus sciuri (26.0%; n = 19), Staphylococcus epidermidis (2.7%; n = 2), Staphylococcus warneri (2.7%; n = 2), Staphylococcus lentus (1.4%; n = 1), Staphylococcus saprophyticus (1.4%; n = 1), and Staphylococcus haemolyticus (1.4%; n = 1). Penicillin was the least effective antimicrobial (60.3% of resistance; n = 44) followed by erythromycin (39.8%; n = 29), azithromycin (28.8%; n = 21), and oxacillin (16.5%; n = 12). The most effective drug was vancomycin, for which no resistance was observed, followed by gentamicin and levofloxacin, for which only intermediate resistance was observed (22%, n = 16 and 1.4%, n = 1, respectively). Among the oxacillin-resistant strains, the mecA gene was detected in two isolates. Conclusions: Considering the high antimicrobial resistance observed, our results raise concerns about the survival of putative bacterial pathogens carrying important resistance markers in HCW and their environmental spread through untreated residues discharged in sanitary landfills.
A protocol for microbiologically safe preparation, storage, and use of autologous serum eye-drops in low-income countries
Authors: Blasetti Francesco , Usai Donatella , Sotgia Salvatore , Carru Ciriaco , Zanetti Stefania , Pinna Antonio
Published: January 2015

Introduction: The study aimed to investigate whether the preparation, storage, and use of autologous serum in insulin syringes is microbiologically safe. Methodology: Blood samples (10 mL) were obtained from 10 volunteers. After centrifugation, the supernatant serum was removed and distributed in 5 sterile insulin syringes for each sample; syringes were numbered 0 to 4 and labelled with the subject’s details. Syringes were immediately transported to the microbiology laboratory and stored in a refrigerator at +4°C. The “0” labelled syringes were separated from the others and 100 µl of serum from each syringe was immediately seeded on chocolate and Sabouraud agar plates, which were incubated aerobically at 37°C for 96 hours to detect any bacterial and/or fungal contamination. In the next 4 days, the same procedure was repeated for the remaining syringes: on day 1, the “1” labelled syringes were analyzed; on day 2, the “2” labelled ones, and so on. In a second experiment, blood samples were obtained from 5 different volunteers. The same procedure as above was followed, but each syringe was used for repeated cultures at 2-hour intervals, for a total of 12 cultures/day. The needle was removed and replaced for each inoculation and the syringes were stored in the refrigerator after use. Results: Under these experimental conditions, none of the cultures showed microbial growth. Conclusions: Results suggest that, under the protocol described, preparation, storage and use of undiluted autologous serum in insulin syringes is inexpensive, fast, and microbiologically safe. This is of great importance for low-income countries.
Abdominal cystic echinococcosis in Bangladesh: a hospital-based study
Authors: Karim Mohammad Fazal , Brunetti Enrico , Rahman Salimur , Budke Christine M. , Ahsan Abu Saleh Mohammad Areef , Al-Mahtab Mamun , Zaki Khandaker Mahabub Jamal , Alam Mohammad Jamshed , Akbar Sheikh Mohammad Fazle , Jalil MA
Published: January 2015

Introduction: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is reported from nearly all geographic areas of Bangladesh, but little information is available on its epidemiologic and clinical features. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical manifestations of hepatic and abdominal CE cases presenting to tertiary referral hospitals in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Methodology: A retrospective study was conducted via chart reviews of hepatic and abdominal CE patients under care at tertiary referral hospitals in Dhaka, Bangladesh, between 2002 and 2011. Age, sex, education level, occupation, urban versus rural residence, drinking water source, history of dog ownership, cyst type and location, and clinical manifestations were recorded for all patients. Results: Of the 130 patients enrolled, 92 (70.8%) were female and 38 (29.2%) were male. The majority of patients were from rural (76.2%) rather than urban (23.8%) areas. All cases were from the northern part of the country, with no cases reported from the south or southeast. Most patients were between 21 and 40 years of age. A total of 119 patients (91.5%) had cysts only in the liver, with the remaining 8.5% having cysts in both the liver and lungs or in the abdominal cavity. Seventy-six (58.5%) of the hepatic cysts were stage CE1, indicating recent infection. Conclusions: Active transmission of Echinococcus granulosus appears to be occurring in Bangladesh, as indicated by the high number of CE1 hepatic cysts seen at tertiary care hospitals. Community ultrasound screening studies are warranted to better define the distribution of cases and risk factors for parasite transmission.
Prevalence of opportunistic infections in HIV-positive patients in Bahrain: a four-year review (2009-2013)
Authors: Saeed Nermin Kamal , Farid Eman , Jamsheer Afaf E
Published: January 2015

Introduction: This study aimed to examine the prevalence of opportunistic infections in HIV-infected patients in Bahrain and its relation to absolute CD4 count, CD4%, and CD4/CD8 ratio. Methodology: This retrospective cohort study used laboratory records (January 2009 - May 2013) from a major hospital in Bahrain. Opportunistic infections (OIs); absolute CD4 counts, CD4%, and CD4/CD8 ratio were recorded. Results: CD4% and absolute CD4 count in HIV patients with associated infections (157 ± 295) was significantly lower than in those without associated infections (471 ± 285) (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in CD4/CD8 ratio between the two groups. Infection with Staphylococcus aureus was the commonest infection, present in 9.8% of total HIV-infected patients and 28.7% of members of the AIDS patient group with OIs, followed by yeast infections (9.2% and 27.2%, respectively). Mycobacterium tuberculosis was present in 3.6% of total HIV-infected patients and 10.6% of the group with OIs, while mycobacteria other than tuberculosis (MOTT) was present in 2.5% and 7.5%, respectively. Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) was observed in 5.1% and 15.1%, respectively. Herpes simplex II (HSV-II) was observed in 3% and 9%, respectively, while Cytomegalovirus antigenemia was only present in 2% and 6%, respectively. Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus milleri, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, and Citrobacter species were bacterial infections observed least frequently. Conclusions: Studying the pattern of OIs in HIV-infected patients in Bahrain is of paramount importance due to the scarcity of data in the Arab world. This will help to improve physicians’ awareness to improve care of HIV-infected patients.
Prevalence, patterns, and factors associated with bleeding tendencies in dengue
Authors: Bhaskar Emmanuel , Sowmya Gopalan , Moorthy Swathy , Sundar Varun
Published: January 2015

Introduction: The pattern of bleeding tendencies in dengue and its corellation with platelet count and other factors requires clarification. Methodology: A retrospective study on bleeding tendencies in adults with dengue and platelet counts of less than 100,000 per mm3 was conducted. Factors associated with bleeding were analyzed. The study cohort were grouped as dengue with severe thrombocytopenia when platelet count was < 50,000/mm3 and as dengue with moderate thrombocytopenia if platelet count was 50,000–100,000/mm3 Results: A total of 638 patients formed the study cohort. A 24.1% prevalence of bleeding tendencies was observed. Prior anti-platelet drug intake, platelet count of < 70,000/mm3, international normalized ratio > 2.0, and partial thromboplastin time > 60 seconds were associated with bleeding. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy was found to identify structural gastroduodenal lesions when dengue was complicated by hematemesis or melena. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that bleeding complications in dengue can occur at platelet counts of up to 70,000/mm3, and that prior anti-platelet drug intake increases bleeding risk. Evaluation of hematemesis or melena in dengue with esophagogastroduodenoscopy is beneficial.
Occurrence and antimicrobial susceptibility of Salmonella isolates recovered from the pig slaughter process in Romania
Authors: Morar Adriana , Sala Claudia , Imre Kálmán
Published: January 2015

Introduction: Reported human salmonellosis cases have increased in Romania. Antibiotic susceptibility testing of Salmonella strains isolated from pork and chicken meat indicate a worrying multidrug resistance pattern. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of Salmonella and to evaluate the antibiotic resistance of Salmonella strains in a pig slaughterhouse-processing complex, which receives animals from 30% of the large industrialized swine farms in Romania. Methodology: A total of 108 samples, including pork (n = 47), packaged pork products (n = 44), scald water sludge (n = 8), and detritus from the hair removal machine of the slaughterhouse (n = 9) were examined for the presence of Salmonella through standard methods. The antibiotic susceptibility of the isolated strains to 17 antibiotics was tested using the Vitek 2 system. Results: Twenty-six (24.1%) samples were found to be Salmonella positive; this included 25.5% of meat samples and 15.9% of packaged products, as well as samples from two different points of the slaughter (41.2%). Resistance was observed against tetracycline (61.5%), ampicillin (50%), piperacillin (50%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (34.6%), amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (26.9%), nitrofurantion (23.1%), cefazolin (15.4%), piperacillin/tazobactam (7.7%), imipenem (3.8%), ciprofloxacin (3.8%), and norfloxacin (3.8%). No resistance towards cefoxitin, cefotaxime, ceftazidime, cefepime, amikacin, and gentamicin was found. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated the occurrence of multidrug-resistant Salmonella strains in the investigated pork production complex and highlighted it as a potential source of human infections. The results demonstrate the seriousness of antibiotic resistance of Salmonella in Romania, while providing a useful insight for the treatment of human salmonellosis by specialists.
Prevalence and associated risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii in female farmworkers of southeastern Turkey
Authors: Yentur Doni Nebiye , Simsek Zeynep , Gurses Gulcan , Yildiz Zeyrek Fadile , Demir Canan
Published: January 2015

Introduction: There are a limited number of studies of the agricultural population about the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection throughout the world. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors of toxoplasmosis in female farmworkers in the southeastern region of Turkey. Methodology: The optimum sample size was determined using the Epi Info Program, and blood samples were collected from 684 women of reproductive age. Serum samples were analyzed by qualitative and quantitative methods for anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies with a commercially available enzyme immunoassay. Questionnaires through which socio-demographic information was collected were applied during face-to-face interviews of subjects who gave their consent to participate in the study. Crude odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, and Chi-square analyses and logistic regression were performed. Results: Of the 684 women, the prevalence of toxoplasmosis was determined to be 58.3% and 1% for IgG and IgM, respectively. Employment as a seasonal farmworker, increasing age, and having had three or more pregnancies were found to be the crucial associated risk factors that affect the prevalence of T. gondii infection (p < 0.05). In contrast to these, the provincial development level was found to be a confounding factor. There was no association between toxoplasmosis and household size, education attainment, and poverty in the bivariate analyses. Conclusions: The findings show that control and serological screening programs should be implemented nationwide in Turkey for the reliable and fast detection of congenital Toxoplasma infections.
Personalizing Treatment Targets in Rheumatoid Arthritis by Using a Simple Prediction Model
Authors: de Punder Yvonne M.R. , Jansen Tim L.Th.A. , van Ede Annelies E. , den Broeder Alfons A. , van Riel Piet L.C.M. , Fransen Jaap
Published: January 2015

Objective.

To develop a personalized treatment target approach in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) based on baseline risk factors for joint damage progression in combination with disease activity over time.

Methods.

Data were used from the Nijmegen early RA cohort. Presence or absence of anticyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies (anti-CCP), high erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and erosions were translated into 4 risk profiles: 0, 1, 2, and 3. Joint damage progression was assessed with the Ratingen score, and disease activity with the original Disease Activity Score (DAS) over 3 years. The probability for joint damage progression was calculated for each risk profile and each DAS category using logistic regression models. The probabilities were translated into personalized disease activity treatment targets.

Results.

More risk factors at baseline as well as a higher DAS level resulted in a higher probability for joint damage progression in a dose-dependent way. Low DAS corresponded with a probability of 0.0, 0.08, 0.20, and 0.58 in patients with 0, 1, 2, and 3 risk factors, respectively. Moderate DAS corresponded with a probability of 0.06 in patients with 0 risk factors and 0.35 with 1 risk factor. High DAS resulted in a probability of 0.50 with no risk factors present at baseline.

Conclusion.

Presence of anti-CCP, acute-phase response, and erosions at baseline can be used to set individual treatment targets in RA. In patients without these risk factors, a moderate DAS as a target is sufficient, while for patients with all 3 risk factors, a low DAS is not strict enough to limit the risk for joint damage.
A Simplified Baseline Prediction Model for Joint Damage Progression in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Step toward Personalized Medicine
Authors: de Punder Yvonne M.R. , van Riel Piet L.C.M. , Fransen Jaap
Published: January 2015

Objective.

To compare the performance of an extended model and a simplified prognostic model for joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) based on 3 baseline risk factors: anticyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies (anti-CCP), erosions, and acute-phase reaction.

Methods.

Data were used from the Nijmegen early RA cohort. An extended model and a simplified baseline prediction model were developed to predict joint damage progression between 0 and 3 years. Joint damage progression was assessed using the Ratingen score. In the extended model, prediction factors were positivity for anti-CCP and/or rheumatoid factor, the level of erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and the quantity of erosions. The prediction score was calculated as the sum of the regression coefficients. In the simplified model, the prediction factors were dichotomized and the number of risk factors was counted. Performances of both models were compared using discrimination and calibration. The models were internally validated using bootstrapping.

Results.

The extended model resulted in a prediction score between 0 and 5.6 with an area under the receiver-operation characteristic (ROC) curve of 0.77 (95% CI 0.72–0.81). The simplified model resulted in a prediction score between 0 and 3. This model had an area under the ROC curve of 0.75 (95% CI 0.70–0.80). In internal validation, the 2 models showed reasonably well the agreement between observed and predicted probabilities for joint damage progression (Hosmer-Lemeshow test p > 0.05 and calibration slope near 1.0).

Conclusion.

A simple prediction model for joint damage progression in early RA, by only counting the number of risk factors, has adequate performance. This facilitates the translation of the theoretical prognostic models to daily clinical practice.
Longterm (52-week) Results of a Phase III Randomized, Controlled Trial of Apremilast in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: Kavanaugh Arthur , Mease Philip J. , Gomez-Reino Juan J. , Adebajo Adewale O. , Wollenhaupt Jürgen , Gladman Dafna D. , Hochfeld Marla , Teng Lichen L. , Schett Georg , Lespessailles Eric , Hall Stephen
Published: January 2015

Objective.

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of apremilast, an oral phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor, over 52 weeks in patients with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA) despite prior treatment.

Methods.

Patients were randomized to placebo (n = 168), apremilast 20 mg BID (n = 168), or apremilast 30 mg BID (n = 168). Patients whose swollen and tender joint counts had not improved by ≥ 20% at Week 16 were considered nonresponders and were required to be re-randomized (1:1) to apremilast 20 mg BID or 30 mg BID if they were initially randomized to placebo, or continued their initial treatment of apremilast dose. At Week 24, all remaining patients treated with placebo were re-randomized to apremilast 20 mg BID or 30 mg BID.

Results.

An American College of Rheumatology 20 (ACR20) response at Week 16 was attained by significantly more patients receiving apremilast 20 mg BID (30.4%, p = 0.0166) or 30 mg BID (38.1%, p = 0.0001) than placebo (19.0%). Among patients receiving apremilast continuously for 52 weeks (n = 254), ACR20 response at Week 52 was observed in 63.0% (75/119, 20 mg BID) and 54.6% (71/130, 30 mg BID) of patients. Response was also maintained across secondary outcomes, including measures of PsA signs and symptoms, skin psoriasis severity, and physical function. The nature, incidence, and severity of adverse events were comparable over the 24-week and 52-week periods. The most common adverse events, diarrhea and nausea, generally occurred early and were self-limited.

Conclusion.

Continuous apremilast treatment resulted in sustained improvements in PsA for up to 52 weeks. Apremilast had an acceptable safety profile and was generally well tolerated. Clinical trial registration: NCT01172938.
La personne détenue encore à la recherche de son juge en France
Authors: Ferran Nicolas
Published: January 2015

Depuis une vingtaine d’années, les décisions de l’administration pénitentiaire font l’objet en France d’un contrôle grandissant de la part du juge administratif. L’émergence et l’élargissement de ce contrôle s’est opéré sous l’influence notable de la jurisprudence de la Cour européenne des droits de l’homme, et dans un contexte notamment marqué par l’activisme contentieux des associations de protection des droits de l’Homme et de certains avocats militants. La question de l’effectivité du droit au recours des personnes doit cependant être posée à l’aune des limites que connaît encore, sur un plan juridique, le contrôle juridictionnel des actes de l’administration pénitentiaire. La timidité du contrôle des sanctions disciplinaires prononcées contre les détenus, le mouvement jurisprudentiel récent visant à dispenser l’administration pénitentiaire de l’obligation légale de motiver certaines de ses décisions, ou encore la jurisprudence restrictive en matière de référé dans le contentieux pénitentiaire sont une illustration de ces limites. La « qualité » du contrôle juridictionnel opéré par le juge administratif doit ainsi être, à certains égards, sérieusement interrogée.
La soutane contre le tablier
Authors: Ampidu Clorméus Lewis
Published: January 2015

Beaucoup de chercheurs présentent le clergé concordataire comme un allié naturel de l’État haïtien au xix e siècle. Pourtant, l’intégration des missionnaires catholiques, en grande majorité composés de Bretons, s’est réalisée dans un climat de conflits avec les élites nationales dont la plupart des membres étaient francs-maçons. Cet article examine près d’un demi-siècle de tensions entre la franc-maçonnerie haïtienne et le clergé concordataire et les répercussions de cet antagonisme sur le champ politique.
De l'affrontement à la réconciliation
Authors: Weibert Arthus Wien
Published: January 2015

François Duvalier, après des années d’hostilité avec le clergé catholique puis de longues négociations avec le Vatican, a réussi à « indigéniser » l’épiscopat catholique et mettre fin à la prédominance française dans les affaires de l’Église d’Haïti. Cet article montre cependant que le président haïtien n’a pas simplement poursuivi l’idéal de doter son pays d’un clergé indigène. Il a surtout cherché à dominer une puissante institution considérée comme un corps de l’État mais qui fait allégeance à un pouvoir étranger.
La laïcité en Haïti
Authors: Saint Paul Jean Eddy
Published: January 2015

Cet article s’oppose à des erreurs courantes dans les débats intellectuels sur les notions de « laïcité de l’État » et « laïcité de la république » en Haïti depuis 2005. Il s’agit de montrer qu’il n’y a pas forcément une « affinité élective » entre « laïcité » et « république » et que le libéralisme politique est sans doute le meilleur courant paradigmatique permettant d’atteindre le « seuil » le plus élevé en matière de laïcité. Dans cette perspective, l’établissement d’un État laïc en Haïti nécessite l’autonomisation des sphères politiques et religieuses et l’élaboration de normes collectives et de politiques publiques non influencées par une quelconque doctrine religieuse.
Le secteur vodou en Haïti
Authors: Béchacq Dimitri
Published: January 2015

Cet article examine l’histoire récente du secteur vodou en Haïti, de la fin de la dictature duvaliériste en 1986, jusqu’à l’élection du « Pape vodou » en 2008, en passant par l’institutionnalisation du culte pendant les années 1990. Ce secteur trouve ses racines historiques dans les années 1930-1940, période pendant laquelle le mouvement indigéniste et l’ethnologie haïtienne situent le vodou au cœur du nationalisme culturel. Ce dernier fut revisité par des acteurs religieux faisant de ce culte la matrice historique et identitaire d’Haïti et des Haïtiens. L’analyse croisée des trajectoires sociales, des discours médiatiques, des pratiques religieuses et des orientations idéologiques de ces acteurs montre comment le secteur vodou s’est construit entre des carrières personnelles, l’institutionnalisation d’un fait religieux hétérogène et l’influence des intérêts étrangers.
Transcripción revisada del informe de Pedro de Ayala de 1498 sobre las expediciones inglesas de descubrimiento
Authors: Robles Macías Luis A.
Published: January 2015

El informe enviado por Pedro de Ayala a los Reyes Católicos desde Londres en 1498 es una de las fuentes fundamentales sobre las primeras expediciones inglesas a Norteamérica. En este estudio se presenta la historia de su descifrado, interpretación y traducción y, constatando que ninguna de las transcripciones realizadas hasta ahora es completamente exacta, se propone una nueva basada en un descifrado literal del documento, acompañada de traducciones
al francés y al inglés. Se discuten asimismo en detalle algunas frases particularmente difíciles del texto que, debido a su malinterpretación en ediciones anteriores, condujeron a conclusiones probablemente erróneas sobre la biografía de Juan Caboto, el itinerario de su viaje de 1497 y el nombre del religioso que fue con él en su expedición de 1498.
Una armada de galeras para la Carrera de Indias: el Mediterráneo y el comercio colonial en tiempos de Felipe II
Authors: Díaz Blanco José Manuel
Published: January 2015

Este artículo intenta vincular la reorganización de la Carrera de Indias en la década de 1560 y los «seis últimos años de la supremacía turca» en el Mediterráneo (1559-1665) estudiando la historia de una armada de galeras casi olvidada. El análisis de los documentos relativos a esta armada en el Archivo General de Indias permite concluir que la guerra mediterránea entre España y el Imperio Otomano fue una de las causas para la creación del sistema de convoyes de la Carrera.
Presencia de una diáspora global: comerciantes armenios y comercio intercultural en Manila, c. 1660-1800
Authors: Baena Zapatero Alberto , Lamikiz Xabier
Published: January 2015

Este artículo analiza la presencia de comerciantes armenios de Nueva Julfa en Manila, y tiene por objeto tender un puente entre las fuentes documentales españolas y la rica historiografía sobre la diáspora comercial julfana. Atraídos por la plata que llegaba de Acapulco, los armenios jugaron un importante papel comercial en las Filipinas. Abordamos su complicada relación con las autoridades españolas, su participación en los intercambios tanto inter-asiáticos como transpacíficos, y sus experiencias vitales relatadas por ellos mismos ante el Tribunal de la Inquisición en Manila.
El saber climatológico de los jesuitas en la América española. Siglo XVIII
Authors: Molina García Juan Alberto
Published: January 2015

Los jesuitas se instalaron en el Nuevo Mundo desde su descubrimiento, participaron en tareas relacionadas con la investigación geográfica y natural y se interesaron por las descripciones, comparaciones y alabanzas de los climas americanos. En este sentido, emprendieron una serie de actuaciones encaminadas a la obtención, manejo y difusión de información climática que se basaban en la observación directa de los fenómenos, el seguimiento de modelos literarios de reconocido prestigio y la propia comunicación interna.
Los Voluntarios de Fernando VII de Ciudad de México. ¿Baluarte de la capital y confianza del reino?
Authors: Ruiz de Gordejuela Urquijo Jesús
Published: January 2015

La presente investigación pretende acercarnos a la milicia urbana de los Voluntarios de Fernando VII de ciudad de México, en un primer momento como cuerpo de choque en el golpe de Estado del 16 de septiembre de 1808 y dos años después como garante de la seguridad de la capital virreinal hasta su disolución en vísperas de la independencia mexicana. Gracias a fuentes primarias inéditas hemos podido adentrarnos en la vida de este polémico cuerpo militar jalonado de escándalos y graves problemas internos y descubrir si realmente fueron el baluarte de la capital y la confianza del reino tal y como pretendió su coronel el virrey Calleja.
Palmerín de Olivia como enmienda del modelo amadisiano: El rechazo de la perfección arquetípica
Authors: Martín Romero José Julio
Published: January 2015

Ya en Palmerín de Olivia, la primera de las imitaciones de Amadís de Gaula, se detectan diferencias frente al paradigma amadisiano. Así, Palmerín, un héroe cuyo comportamiento es casi siempre ejemplar, en varias ocasiones revela debilidades que lo humanizan y que lo alejan de la perfección arquetípica de Amadís. El presente artículo rastrea y señala esos comportamientos poco caballerescos de Palmerín y los analiza como rasgos que singularizan este libro de caballerías frente a su modelo. Como resultado de todo esto, el presente estudio arroja luz sobre la configuración del género caballeresco y ayuda a comprender su heterogeneidad.
Vestigios poéticos y pervivencia del teatro litúrgico en el siglo XVI
Authors: Carabias Orgaz Miguel
Published: January 2015

Presentamos una serie de textos poéticos contenidos en un manuscrito de la segunda mitad del siglo XVI, los cuales se ponen en relación con ciertas manifestaciones dramáticas y procesionales que contribuyeron al desarrollo del teatro litúrgico castellano de los siglos XV y XVI. Este tipo de composiciones en lengua romance aparecieron con frecuencia interpoladas en el oficio, siguiendo cierto orden teatral, y pervivieron incluso después de que las disposiciones tridentinas impusieran la depuración de dichos materiales y la prohibición de aquel tipo de representaciones
Paradigmas y estructuras en las comedias triples del Siglo de Oro
Authors: Sáez Adrián J.
Published: January 2015

Este artículo analiza una modalidad particular del teatro del Siglo de Oro: las comedias triples o de triple argumento. Se trata de un modelo poco atendido por la crítica dentro del que, según se propone, pueden diferenciarse dos paradigmas: la comedia triple stricto sensu, que une tres historias independientes en un mismo texto; y la comedia tripartita, que muestra tres etapas de un mismo argumento, una por jornada, y que sigue una práctica ya vigente en el teatro renacentista. Mediante el estudio de algunos ejemplos significativos se tratan de justificar las diferencias entre ambos paradigmas y la experimentación de estas estructuras con las unidades dramáticas.
Mitología y emblemática en Milagros de Nuestra Señora de la Fuencisla (1615), de Jerónimo de Alcalá Yáñez
Authors: Donoso Rodríguez Miguel
Published: January 2015

Los emblemas, enigmas y jeroglíficos fueron muy populares en la cultura del Siglo de Oro. La literatura da buena muestra de ello, tal como se puede apreciar en las composiciones literarias que concursaron en los certámenes poéticos que se celebraron con motivo de la entronización de la imagen de la Virgen de la Fuencisla en su nuevo santuario, en Segovia, acontecimiento ocurrido en 1613 y descrito en el libro Milagros de Nuestra Señora de la Fuencisla (1615), del doctor Jerónimo de Alcalá Yáñez, obra que pertenece al género de las relaciones de sucesos, tan populares en el siglo XVII español. En este artículo se estudian algunos jeroglíficos y enigmas descritos en dicho texto, en los cuales se puede apreciar cómo estas composiciones literarias no solo se nutren de la Biblia y del Evangelio, sino también de la emblemática y del mundo mitológico.
RAMÓN, Sociedad Limitada. Consumo y creación en la estética de Ramón Gómez de la Serna
Authors: Fernández Romero Ricardo
Published: January 2015

A partir del análisis de la naturaleza de la mercancía, su circulación y su consumo, nuestra investigación propone entender la creación de imágenes literarias de Ramón Gómez de la Serna como el descubrimiento de la naturaleza estética (o el posible aprovechamiento estético) de los mecanismos sociales y económicos del fetichismo de la mercancía descrito por Karl Marx. Las dos ediciones de El rastro (1914 y 1931) serán el terreno para esta exploración. Las diferencias entre ambas ediciones, junto al estudio de otros textos ramonianos, mostrará la evolución del autor en cuanto a las implicaciones estéticas de diferentes formas de consumo en el contexto del desarrollo del capitalismo en el primer tercio del siglo XX en España
Carmen Martín Gaite: la escritura terapéutica
Authors: Escartín Gual Montserrat
Published: January 2015

En este artículo se analiza el poder terapéutico de la comunicación oral y escrita, así como el beneficio de la lectura de textos literarios que propone la narrativa de Carmen Martín Gaite. Si la autora priorizó la comunicación hablada en su primeras novelas, con el paso del tiempo, su discurso narrativo defendió la escritura frente a la oralidad, convirtiéndola en el vehículo elegido por sus personajes para comunicarse y, en definitiva por ella misma, para buscar la curación a través de la palabra.
La secuencia musteriense de la Cueva del Niño (Aýna, Albacete) y el poblamiento neandertal en el sureste de la Península Ibérica
Authors: García Moreno Alejandro , Rios Garaizar Joseba , Marín Arroyo Ana Belén , Eugenio Ortíz José , De Torres Trinidad , López-Dóriga Inés
Published: January 2015

En este artículo se presentan los resultados de la revisión de los materiales arqueológicos procedentes de la excavación realizada en 1973 en la Cueva del Niño (Aýna, Albacete) correspondientes a ocupaciones del Paleolítico Medio. Esta revisión se realizó fundamentalmente mediante el análisis tecnológico de la industria lítica, el estudio arqueozoológico y tafonómico de los restos de macromamíferos y el análisis de los restos carpológicos. Además, se presentan las dataciones obtenidas para los niveles revisados. Estas dataciones sitúan la ocupación de la cavidad a finales del MIS3. A pesar del reducido número de restos arqueológicos disponibles, la información resultante permite situar el yacimiento de la Cueva del Niño en el contexto del final del Paleolítico Medio del sureste de la Península Ibérica, y aportar nuevos datos a la problemática de la desaparición de las últimas poblaciones neandertales.
Nuevas interpretaciones del Paleolítico Superior Final de la Cataluña meridional: el yacimiento de L’ Hort de la Boquera (Priorat, Tarragona)
Authors: Garcia-Argüelles Andreu Pilar , Nadal Lorenzo Jordi , Fullola Pericot Josep M.ª , Bergadà Zapata M.ª Mercè , Domingo Sanz Inés , Allué Martí Ethel , Lloveras Roca Lluís
Published: January 2015

En este trabajo ofrecemos, por primera vez, los resultados obtenidos hasta el momento en las excavaciones en L’Hort de la Boquera, situado en Margalef de Montsant (Tarragona). El yacimiento forma parte del proyecto de investigación que llevamos a cabo sobre el poblamiento prehistórico del curso medio del río Montsant desde 1979. Los avances se centran en el estudio industrial, de paleoecología, de paleoeconomía, en las dataciones radiocarbónicas y, lo más novedoso, en el del arte mueble, así como en su adscripción a un Paleolítico superior final cuyas características particulares le diferencian del Magdaleniense clásico.
Instrumentos para siega y procesado de plantas desde el Calcolítico al Bronce antiguo de Chibanes (Palmela, Portugal)
Authors: Clemente-Conte Ignacio , Mazzucco Niccolò , Soares Joaquina
Published: January 2015

El análisis funcional ha reconocido rastros de uso en artefactos de sílex (foicinhas) que caracterizan la identidad socio-cultural del III milenio cal BC en la Estremadura portuguesa. Esos artefactos tienen rasgos tecnológicos y tipológicos específicos y su funcionalidad ha sido discutida durante mucho tiempo sin resultados positivos. El presente estudio funcional permitió su clasificación como elementos de hoz, proporcionando información sobre las prácticas agrícolas durante el Calcolítico en Portugal y nuevos enfoques sobre la biografía de las foicinhas. Este trabajo supone un ejemplo más de la aportación del análisis funcional al conocimiento de los aspectos socio-económicos en las sociedades del pasado.
Denoising magnetic data using steering kernel regression
Authors: Tronicke Jens , Böniger Urs
Published: January 2015

Ground‐based magnetic surveying is a common geophysical method to explore near‐surface environments in a non‐destructive manner. In many typical applications (such as archaeological prospection), the resulting anomaly maps are often characterized by low signal‐to‐noise ratios and, thus, the suppression of noise is a key step in data processing. Here, we propose the steering kernel regression (SKR) method to denoise magnetic data sets. SKR has been recently developed to suppress random noise in images and video sequences. The core of the method is the steering kernel function which represents a robust estimate of local image structure. Using such a kernel within an iterative regression based denoising framework, helps to minimize image blurring and to preserve the underlying structures such as edges and corners. Because such filter characteristics are desirable for random noise attenuation in potential field data sets, we apply the SKR method for processing high‐resolution ground‐based magnetic data as they are typically collected in archaeological applications. We test and evaluate the SKR method using synthetic and field data examples and also compare it to more commonly employed denoising strategies relying, for example, on fixed filter masks (e.g., Gaussian filters). Our results show that the SKR method is successful in removing random and acquisition related noise present in our data. Concurrently, it preserves the local image structure including the amplitudes of anomalies. As demonstrated by derivative based transformations, the mentioned filter characteristics significantly impact subsequent processing steps and, therefore, result in an improved analysis and interpretation of magnetic data. Thus, the method can be considered as a promising and novel approach for denoising ground‐based magnetic data.
Combining surface waves and common methods for shallow geophysical survey
Authors: Gaždová Renata , Kolínský Petr , Vilhelm Jan , Valenta Jan
Published: January 2015

Geophysical data were acquired during a survey of the Hluboká Fault in the Czech Republic, Central Europe. The recorded surface waves are studied in the frequency range 8‐200 Hz. Phase velocity dispersion curves of Rayleigh and Love waves are determined from pairs of three‐component seismograms with a 5 m receiver spacing by means of a frequency‐time analysis along the profile. Rayleigh waves are analysed on the vertical (Z) and radial (R) components and Love waves on the transversal (T) component. Dispersion curves from the vertical component are then inverted to 1‐D S‐wave velocity models using the isometric method. A set of 1‐D S‐wave velocity models representing a pseudo 2‐D S‐wave velocity distribution along the profile is obtained.

This velocity distribution is compared with the results of other geophysical methods and also with direct observation from a shallow paleoseismic trenching. A combination of the S‐wave velocities obtained from the surface wave analysis and P‐wave velocities from refraction tomography is used to estimate the Poisson ratio distribution. It is shown that the resolution capabilities of surface waves are comparable in this case with electric resistivity tomography in near surface medium and with P‐wave tomography in the depths exceeding approx. 15 metres.
Joining multiple AEM datasets to improve accuracy, cross calibration and derived products: The Spiritwood VTEM and AeroTEM case study
Authors: Sapia Vincenzo , Viezzoli Andrea , Oldenborger Greg
Published: January 2015

Airborne time‐domain electromagnetic methods (AEM) are useful for hydrogeological mapping due to their rapid and extensive spatial coverage and high correlation between measured magnetic fields, electrical conductivity, and relevant hydrogeological parameters. However, AEM data, preprocessing and modelling procedures can suffer from inaccuracies that may dramatically affect the final interpretation. We demonstrate the importance and the benefits of advanced data processing for two AEM datasets (AeroTEM III and VTEM) collected over the Spiritwood buried valley aquifer in southern Manitoba, Canada. Early‐time data gates are identified as having significant flight‐dependent signal bias that reflects survey flights and flight lines. These data are removed from inversions along with late time data gates contaminated by apparently random noise. In conjunction with supporting information, the less‐extensive, but broader‐band VTEM data are used to construct an electrical reference model. The reference model is subsequently used to calibrate the AeroTEM dataset via forward modelling for coincident soundings. The procedure produces calibration factors that we apply to AeroTEM data over the entire survey domain. Inversion of the calibrated data results in improved data fits, particularly at early times, but some flight‐line artefacts remain. Residual striping between adjacent flights is corrected by including a mean empirical amplitude correction factor within the spatially constrained inversion scheme. Finally, the AeroTEM and VTEM data are combined in a joint inversion. Results confirm consistency between the two different AEM datasets and the recovered models. On the contrary, joint inversion of unprocessed or uncalibrated AEM datasets results in erroneous resistivity models which, in turn, can result in an inappropriate hydrogeological interpretation of the study area.
Applying airborne electromagnetics in 3D stochastic geohydrological modelling for determining groundwater protection
Authors: Gunnink Jan L. , Siemon Bernhard
Published: January 2015

Airborne electromagnetic (AEM) measurements provide information regarding the electrical properties of the subsurface for large spatial coverage in a limited time. In mapping and modelling for geological and geohydrological purposes, electrical properties (e.g. resistivity) need to be converted to relevant parameters, like lithology. Helicopter‐borne frequency‐domain EM measurements from an area in the Netherlands were combined with borehole data to create a 3D model of two contrasting lithologies (sand and clay) that served as proxy for assessing the vulnerability of the aquifer to surface contamination. By comparing the lithology found in boreholes with the resistivity derived from AEM at that location, a probabilistic relationship between these two variables was determined. This relationship was used to convert the AEM resistivity models into a 3D model of clay probability. Using geostatistical Monte Carlo simulations, the boreholes (hard data) and the probability of clay from the AEM resistivity models (soft data) were combined. AEM improved the 3D model substantially, compared to using only borehole data. An independent validation dataset verified the improvement of the 3D model using AEM data. Areas with a high probability of clay occurrence could be distinguished and a clay thickness map with uncertainty (standard deviation) was calculated. Using a simple groundwater model, the capability of the clay to protect the underlying aquifer from contamination was quantified. This resulted in the delineation of distinct areas that are well protected due to the large travel time for infiltrating water from the surface to the aquifer.
Geophysical evidence for the hydro‐tectonic origin of the Sabkha El Sheikh Zwayed Lake and the shallow fresh water supplies, Northern Sinai, Egypt
Authors: Khalil Mohamed A. , Santos Fernando M.
Published: January 2015

The El Sheikh Zwayed Lake is a saline lake located in northern Sinai Peninsula. The origin of the lake as well as the shallow fresh water supplies between the lake and the Mediterranean are the subject of many geological, hydrogeological, and geophysical studies. Two main hypotheses have been sug gested to explain the phenomenon of the lake (i.e. hydrogeological and/or tectonic). Using direct current resistivity (DCR) and gravity data, we investigated which of these processes explain the jux taposition and the contradiction between the location of freshwater between the sea and a saline lake to the south which is supplied by a saline aquifer. We infer from the 1D and 2D resistivity inversions that a shallow grabenal structure exists between the lake and the coast. The gravity measurements enable a subsurface NE‐SW doubly plunging anticline to be suggested (and related to Syrian arc system) to the south‐west side of the lake as well as a NE‐SW associated deep inferred fault‐line crossing the lake. The results show that the hydrogeological regime in the study area is tectonically con trolled; whereby the graben structure works as a hydrogeological barrier between the lake and the sea.
CO2 from Southeast Asia to Brazil: Making Your Enemy Your Ally?
Authors: Hauville B. , Rueda Terrazas R. , Henrique S.
Published: January 2015

For several years, Southeast Asia fields with high concentration of CO2 have been developed and have reached a mature state in production whereas in the Brazilian deep offshore environment, not only it is a novelty, but dealing with such an element brings forth several challenges, requiring additional technology and as much know-how on such issue as it may exist, especially considering the financial and technical adversities that production of deep offshore pre-salt fields entails.

In spite of the significant difference in geology, API degree and phase development of these fields, this paper analyzes the possible applications and knowledge between Asia Pacific and Brazil, concerning the lessons and expertise in mature CO2 rich offshore fields in order to predict issues that are likely to arise up until the production stage and promoting ways to mitigate these issues.

Such a correlation becomes quite substantial when one considers that during the past year, companies operating in Brazil have started to experiment with different EOR techniques such as WAG (Water-Alternating-Gas)using CO2 (which can be more collaborative and efficient in its sweeping effect), and that until now hadn't been tested in pre-salt fields rich in CO2. These techniques were, all the same, proven successful in fields of Southeast Asia with similar CO2 characteristics. Thus, an entirely new opportunity may surface: the application of the Asian experience on field development expressly taking into account the high level of CO2 present in both Asian fields and the recently discovered giant fields of Brazil also associated to very high CO2 quantities. This is definitely not a one-sided flow of know-how and experiences, since the technologies developed for the pre-salt can also be applied in Asian a mature field, which demand even less of a risk and comprises of a lesser complex environment, and can only be favored by further production.

This paper intends to comparatively examine two major petroleum regions of the world, to highlight the numerous similarities with several documented case studies and to analyze possible two way know-how exchange between fields of the Asia-Pacific region and those of the Brazilian pre-salt.