bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aptamers: A Promising Tool for Ochratoxin A Detection in Food Analysis
Authors: Rhouati Amina , Yang Cheng , Hayat Akhtar , Marty Jean-Louis
Published: November 2013

The contamination of food and feed by mycotoxins has become an increasingly serious problem. Mycotoxins represent a major risk to human and animal health, as well as economics. Herein, we focus on Ochratoxin A (OTA), which is one of the most common mycotoxins contaminating feed and foodstuffs. OTA is a secondary metabolite produced by various Aspergillus and Penicillium strains. Upon ingestion, OTA has a number of acute and chronic toxic effects. It is nephrotoxic, teratogenic, immunosuppressive, and carcinogenic (group 2B). As a consequence, some regulatory limits have been introduced on the levels of OTA in several commodities. The toxic nature of OTA demands highly sensitive and selective monitoring techniques to protect human and animal health. As alternative to traditional analytical techniques, biochemical methods for OTA analysis have attained great interest in the last few decades. They are mainly based on the integration of antibodies or aptamers as biorecognition elements in sensing platforms. However, aptamers have gained more attention in affinity-based assays because of their high affinity, specificity, stability, and their easy chemical synthesis. In this brief review, we present an overview of aptamer-based assays and their applications in OTA purification and detection, appeared in the literature in the last five years.
Le Sud revisité : équité de genres et fécondité en Italie et en Espagne
Authors: Cooke Lynn Prince
Published: November 2013

Selon la thèse de Peter McDonald, une relation négative existe entre l’emploi des femmes et la fécondité. Dans cet article, l’analyse de données macro-et microéconomiques montre que ce n’est pas le conflit en soi mais le renforcement de l’« iniquité » entre les sexes dans les différentes législations qui peut laisser présager un déclin des taux de fécondité. Les différentes législations concernent les droits de l’individu en tant que tel (par exemple, le droit du travail) et le droit qui s’adresse à l’individu en tant que membre d’une famille (les allocations familiales, les congés parentaux). On fait ici l’hypothèse d’une relation croissante selon laquelle une plus grande équité dans l’emploi a pour effet d’encourager une plus grande équité au sein des politiques en faveur de la famille et, in fine, au sein de la famille elle-même. Les données du Panel de démographie familiale de l’Union européenne sont utilisées pour illustrer l’évolution des effets de l’équité des genres sur la probabilité de secondes naissances en Italie et en Espagne. Ces deux États sont caractérisés par la domination d’un modèle de « l’homme gagne-pain » où le père est le seul pourvoyeur financier de la famille. Cependant, l’Italie a fait plus de progrès vers l’équité dans l’emploi des femmes que l’Espagne.
Les nouveaux échelons de la gouvernance de la reproduction sociale [La garde des enfants à Toronto (Canada) et à Stockholm (Suède)]
Authors: Mahon Rianne
Published: November 2013

Au cours des vingt-cinq dernières années, les partisans de la réforme des régimes de protection sociale ont exercé une pression croissante, qui ne peut être réduite à une limitation des programmes sociaux en réponse à la mondialisation néolibérale. Les États sont sommés d’assumer de nouvelles responsabilités dans le domaine de la reproduction sociale, en particulier de développer les modes de garde non parentaux pour les jeunes enfants, non seulement pour les mères isolées mais aussi pour la majorité des familles. Les États ne répondent pas tous de la même façon à ce nouvel enjeu. Les nouvelles politiques de la reproduction sociale reflètent souvent les caractéristiques des régimes de protection sociale dans lesquels ils s’inscrivent. Dans cet article, Rianne Mahon analyse l’interaction entre les régimes nationaux de protection sociale et les échelons infranationaux, et plus particulièrement les deux principaux centres urbains du Canada (Toronto) et de la Suède (Stockholm). Cette comparaison montre que l’évolution des rapports hommes-femmes avait déjà commencé à bouleverser la reproduction sociale durant l’après-guerre, bien avant que le phénomène ne s’étende au reste de leurs pays respectifs. Toronto et Stockholm ont mis en oeuvre des programmes expérimentaux d’accueil d’enfants d’âge préscolaire qui constituaient un défi au modèle de citoyenneté. À Stockholm, cette innovation a contribué à une évolution notable des politiques à l’échelle nationale, alors que l’expérience de Toronto, ayant échoué à modifier le modèle national, a vu sa propre viabilité mise en question.
Petite enfance et handicap [Quelles réponses aux besoins d’accueil ?]
Authors: Plaisance Eric , Bouve Catherine , Schneider Cornelia
Published: November 2013

L’accueil des enfants en situation de handicap ou atteints d’une maladie chronique est préconisé officiellement dans les institutions destinées aux enfants âgés de moins de 6 ans. En France, l’expression « action médico-sociale précoce » est utilisée. Or, d’un côté, la définition même du « handicap » pose problème et, d’un autre côté, les différents dispositifs d’accueil et d’aide sont hétérogènes et soumis à différents découpages d’âges, rendant ainsi difficile l’appréciation de l’adéquation ou non entre les besoins potentiels et les offres institutionnelles. En outre, les réalités restent bien en deçà des souhaits d’intégration. Il convenait donc de repérer les expériences innovantes et leurs conditions de réalisation. Une enquête de terrain, principalement en région parisienne, a permis de poser quelques préconisations pour améliorer les situations existantes.
L’impact de l’unification des aides au logement sur le profil de consommation des bénéficiaires
Authors: Mahieu Ronan
Published: November 2013

The impact of unifying housing benefits on beneficiaries’ consumer profiles.

Individual housing benefits in the rental sector can serve a two-fold objective : increase expenditure for other consumption items (or savings) by increasing the disposable income after factoring housing expenditure but also, of course, increasing housing consumption by facilitating access to larger or more comfortable (and thus more expensive) housing, which assumes that the beneficiary moves. Here the unification occurring between 2000 and 2002 in the scale applied by two types of current aid, housing benefits [ allocation logement] and individual housing aid [ aide personnalisée au logement] is used as the natural experiment to highlight the impact of benefits on the decision to move. The data used are those from the Caisses d’Allocations familiales, which pay out housing benefits. Although it is difficult to quantify the effect of subsidies with precision given the inability to identify changes of address in the sources used, the study does reveal a significant positive effect, albeit of minor extent, from benefits for recipients’ residential mobility. Furthermore, the effect of benefits differs highly from one region to the next, possible as a result of local housing market specifics.
El águila real, símbolo del pueblo mexica
Authors: de la Garza C. Mercedes
Published: November 2013

RESUMEN- En este trabajo se analiza la presencia del águila real como símbolo religioso del pueblo mexica, a la luz del simbolismo universal del águila. Se inicia presentando la significación de los animales en el pensamiento de hombre antiguo, y en particular el simbolismo del águila y su carácter solar e iniciático. Se muestra cómo el águila real encarnó los valores esenciales del dominio sobre los otros pueblos y la muerte como sacrificio que el hombre hace de sí mismo para alimentar a los dioses con su propia sangre. Se destaca, asimismo, la presencia del águila en los mitos comogónicos y en la historia de la peregrinación, y se analizan los principales símbolos de la fundación de México-Tenochtitlan, entre los que sobresale el del águila.
Un breve apunte de Antonio Tello, cronista de Xalisco
Authors: Muría José
Published: November 2013

RESUMEN- La Crónica Miscelánea de Xalisco, de Antonio Tello, constituye uno de los puntales más importantes del conocimiento de la conquista y evangelización del occidente mexicano, y resulta muy útil también para adentrarse en el pensamiento de la Época Colonial, a pesar de los contratiempos, calamidades y malos tratos que ha sufrido. Es pues muy necesario pensar en una edición completa de lo que se conserva, con todas las formalidades y cuidados.
Dos figuras en la Utopía Franciscana de Nueva España: Fray Juan de Zumárraga y fray Martín de Valencia
Authors: Morales Francisco
Published: November 2013

RÉSUMÉ- Fray Juan de Zumárraga et fray Martín de Valencia sont deux personnages très significatifs dans les chroniques franciscaines du XVIe siècle. Dans l'étape que ces derniers considèrent comme l'âge d'or de l'église américaine, ces deux religieux représentent les types idéaux du missionnaire et du prélat. Un examen minutieux des textes démontre que cette estime repose sur d'autres motifs. Le premier acquiert de l'importance moins par son action que par son image de frère mineur et l'influence que sa vocation franciscaine a eue dans la mise en œuvre de sa fonction épiscopale. Le second, malgré ses doutes sur la conversion des Indiens, qui l'éloignèrent de la figure idéale du missionnaire, est reconnu comme le guide spirituel des fondateurs de l'église américaine.
Un sermón de profesión de monjas del siglo XVII: la retórica de la perfección
Authors: Bravo Arriaga María Dolores
Published: November 2013

ABSTRACT- This study underlines the analogy between the novohispano patriarchal model and the conventual life as a safeguard for feminine honour and as an ideal in the epoch's collective psyche. Fray Joseph de la Vega, belonging to the Order of Mercy, wrote a sermon for the taking of the veil of the capucine nun sister María Francisca in 1691. Analysis of the text considering the genre's rethorical rules which were abundantly used in New Spain during the 17th century, therefore enlightening the epoch's mentality and the language that expressed it.
Un prédicateur à Mexico au temps de Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz : le Père Juan Martínez de la Parra S. J. et son livre Luz de verdades católicas y exposición de la Doctrina Christiana
Authors: Bénassy-Berling Marie-Cécile
Published: November 2013

RESUMEN- Luz de verdades católicas... es una colección de sermones predicados a la población de México entre 1691 y 1694 fuera de cualquier celebración religiosa. El libro tuvo mucho éxito y ahora vale como testigo de la doctrina religiosa y de la moral expuestas por un miembro de la Compañía de Jesús, y también como espejo del estado social : importancia del Demonio, culto popular a la Guadalupe, papel de los acaparadores del maíz, etc.
Descriptividad en el corrido tradicional
Authors: González Aurelio
Published: November 2013

ABSTRACT- The corrido is Mexico's most important demonstration of the ballad. The more or less high degree of a community's acceptance of a text is related to its faithfulness to a style which we can identify as traditional, in which description occupies less space than narrativity, which dominates. But descriptions fulfill a particular function within the texts.
Topografía insospechada de la luna. Las Memorias de infancia de José Luis González
Authors: Rodriguez Fatima
Published: November 2013

RESUMEN- Suelen considerarse las memorias literarias como un medio de acceso al contexto histórico en el que, de manera activa o pasiva, ha participado el escritor memorialista, relegado éste a un segundo plano de su obra. Ahora bien, La luna no era de queso, título de las Memorias de infancia del escritor puertorriqueño José Luis González, rebasa con creces los límites de la escritura testimonial para adentrar al lector en un territorio nuevo, donde ficciones y referencias son instrumentos de una reterritorialización. Las memorias son, más que el marco de una reconstrucción, el enclave de una construcción que no puede llevarse a cabo en otros géneros.
Des rêveurs d'utopies dans l'Amérique espagnole du XVIe siècle
Authors: Bertrand Michel
Published: November 2013

RESUMEN- La «invención de América» fue para los Europeos el punto de partida de múltiples interrogaciones y cuestionamientos de muchas certidumbres hasta entonces incuestionables al ser consideradas como fundamentadas sobre Verdades de Fe. Entre las innumerables manifestaciones de este hervidero intelectual, cabe distinguir los proyectos utópicos que se elaboraron posteriormente al libro publicado por Tomás Moro en 1516. Sin pretender hacer de esta Utopía la única fuente de inspiración, muchos de estos proyectos mantienen con ella una clara filiación. Tal es el caso de algunas de las iniciativas tomadas por misioneros preocupados por llevar a cabo una evangelización capaz de proteger a las poblaciones amerindias. La comparación de las realizaciones de B. de Las Casas y de Vasco de Quiroga, ambas elaboradas en la década de 1530 en Mesoamérica, permite subrayar sus convergencias así como las deudas hacia el que fue un precursor en Utopía.
Regularization in Deformable Registration of Biomedical Images Based on Divergence and Curl Operators
Authors: Peroni M. , Baroni G. , Riboldi M. , Riyahi-Alam S.
Published: November 2013

Background: Similarity measures in medical images do not uniquely determine the correspondence between two voxels in deformable image registration. Uncertainties in the final computed deformation exist, questioning the actual physiological consistency of the deformation between the two images.

Objectives: We developed a deformable image registration method that regularizes the deformation field in order to model a deformation with physiological properties, relying on vector calculus based operators as a regularization function.

Method: We implemented a 3D multi-resolution parametric deformable image registration, containing divergence and curl of the deformation field as regularization terms. Exploiting a BSpline model, we fit the transformation to optimize histogram-based mutual information similarity measure. In order to account for compression/expansion, we extract sink/source/circulation components as irregularities in the warped image and compensate them. The registration performance was evaluated using Jacobian determinant of the deformation field, inverse-consistency, landmark errors and residual image difference along with displacement field errors. Finally, we compare our results to a robust combination of second derivative regularization, as well as to non-regularized methods.

Results: The implementation was tested on synthetic phantoms and clinical data, leading to increased image similarity and reduced inverse-consistency errors. The statistical analysis on clinical cases showed that regularized methods are able to achieve better image similarity than non regularized methods. Also, divergence/curl regularization improves anatomical landmark errors compared to second derivative regularization.

Conclusion: The implemented divergence/ curl regularization was successfully tested, leading to promising results in comparison with competitive regularization methods. Future work is required to establish parameter tuning and reduce the computational cost.
An Informal Use of Facebook to Encourage Student Collaboration and Motivation for Off Campus Activities
Authors: Hogg Steve
Published: November 2013

Facebook has become the students’ communication tool of choice. Instant messaging and online presence and the fact the “everyone you know” is on Facebook makes email look slow and clunky. Tutors may well be Facebook users themselves for those very same reasons, and as a way of keeping in touch with friends and family. Indeed, not to have a Facebook and Twitter account may be seen to be out of touch. At the same time, the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is embedded deeply into the higher education landscape. The VLE is an integral part of the student learning experience. The role of the VLE is well established and recognized as the place the students go to access learning materials associated with their unit of study. The VLE used at Southampton Solent University, UK, is MyCourse. A look at the patterns of usage of a selection of media students at SSU suggests that students access the VLE periodically, between classes, to review or preview learning materials and to review assignment briefs. However, by contrast, the students are connected to Facebook for long periods of the day. The VLE offers communication and collaboration tools, but does the “always connected, always checking in” nature of Facebook provide a more effective way of facilitating communication and collaboration? Similarly, the VLE offers the facility to share work via forums and message boards. However, do the instant update, commenting, and like features, combined with the fact that Facebook is a place the students choose to go, have an impact on student motivation if work is shared on a Facebook group?
Classifying Facebook Usage in the Classroom or Around It
Authors: Kandroudi Marina , Bratitsis Tharrenos
Published: November 2013

Social Networking Services (SNS) focus on social relation cultivation among people who share interests. This chapter focuses on the educational uses of SNS, Facebook in particular. Examining the educational research area, one can see that it closely monitors the social changes, adapting to the current trends, and in the process can be updated and modernized. Consequently, an increasing number of studies and approaches that try to integrate Facebook into the classroom or the educational process, at any stage, are more or less to be expected. The core aim of this chapter is to operate as a collective source of information for the reader who wishes to become acquainted with the educational exploitations of Facebook at a glance, while understanding why and how the existing approaches are implemented. Furthermore, a qualitative case study is presented, as a demonstration of the design and implementation process of Facebook-related research.
Organisational commitment, work engagement and meaning of work of nursing staff in hospitals
Authors: Beukes Ilka , Botha Elrie
Published: November 2013

Orientation: Nursing is a noble profession but not always an easy job. Work overload, few resources, limited promotion and development opportunities have a negative impact on the sustainability of the profession.Research purpose: The primary objective of this research was to investigate the relationship between organisational commitment, work engagement and meaning of work amongst nursing staff at various hospitals.Motivation for study: It is important to understand how to optimise the work experience of nursing staff in order to ensure a committed and engaged workforce.Research design, approach and method: A survey design with a cluster sample (n = 199) was used. The Organisational Commitment Questionnaire, Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, Work-Life Questionnaire and a biographical questionnaire were administered.Main findings: The majority of the scales showed acceptable reliability. Results indicated that the majority of nursing staff view their work as either a job or a calling. This impacts the organisation in the sense that viewing work as a calling predicts 19% of the variance in organisational commitment and 30% of the variance in work engagement. Practical/managerial implications: Viewing work as a calling will accompany higher levels of engagement and commitment to the organisation. Nurses who feel that they make a meaningful contribution to the hospital are more inclined to stay in the organisation.Contribution/value-add: Strategies can be put in place to focus on experiencing work as a calling, rather than a job. Enhancing this experience and creating awareness could lead to higher levels of organisational commitment and work engagement.
High Prevelance of Rifampin-Monoresistant Tuberculosis: A Retrospective Analysis among Iranian Pulmonary Tuberculosis Patients
Authors: Velayati Ali Akbar , Farnia Parissa , Mozafari Mohadese , Sheikholeslami Maryam Fatemeh , Karahrudi Mona Afraei , Tabarsi Payam , Hoffner Sven
Published: November 2013

We determined the prevalence of rifampin-monoresistant tuberculosis (RMR-TB) in Iran. Because development of RMR-TB is not common, we also identified the major risk factors associated with RMR-TB reported from different provinces of Iran. Data for 3,020 TB patients who remained or became smear positive after two, four, six, and nine months of standard first-line chemotherapy were retrospectively analyzed. Of 3,020 patients, 1,242 patients (41.1%) were culture and DNA positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Of these patients, 73 (7.4%) patients had monoresistant isolates to rifampin, which was significantly higher than that for multidrug-resistant TB (5.8%). The average rate of RMR-TB in the studied population ranged from 5% to 10%. Classical investigation showed that 33.6% of patients had either a previous or family history of TB. Molecular epidemiology methods (i.e., spoligotyping and Mycobacterium intespersed repetitive unit–variable number tandem repeat), defined transmission link in three clusters (13%). These results outline the urgent need for a comprehensive plan for detection and treatment of RMR-TB cases.
Observational studies of the meteorological characteristics associated with poor air quality over the Pearl River Delta in China
Authors: Wu M. , Wu D. , Fan Q. , Wang B. M. , Li H. W. , Fan S. J.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. The structure of the atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) and its influence on regional air quality over the Pearl River Delta (PRD) were examined through two intensive observations in October 2004 and July 2006. Analytical results show the presence of two types of typical weather conditions associated with poor air quality over the PRD. The first is the warm period before a cold front (WPBCF) and the second is the subsidence period controlled by a tropical cyclone (SPCTC). Two typical low air quality situations, which are affected by WPBCF and SPCTC, and one high air quality situation were analysed in detail. Results showed that continuously low or calm ground winds resulted in the accumulation of pollutants, and sea-land breezes had an important role during low air quality conditions. Data on recirculation factors showed that recirculation was significant during low air quality conditions, and steady transportation occurred during high air quality conditions. The ventilation index and the 24 h average ventilation index during high air quality conditions were significantly higher than those during low air quality conditions. Deep and stable inversion layers inside the ABL remarkably affected low air quality. Surface and low-altitude inversions were usually observed during WPBCF, contrary to during SPCTC, during which only the low-altitude inversion appeared frequently.
The effect of atmospheric aerosol particles and clouds on Net Ecosystem Exchange in Amazonia
Authors: Cirino G. G. , Souza R. F. , Adams D. K. , Artaxo P.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Carbon cycling in Amazonia is closely linked to atmospheric processes and climate in the region as a consequence of the strong coupling between the atmosphere and biosphere. This work examines the effects of changes in net radiation due to atmospheric aerosol particles and clouds on the Net Ecosystem Exchange (NEE) of CO2 in the Amazon region. Some of the major environmental factors affecting the photosynthetic activity of plants, such as air temperature and relative humidity were also examined. An algorithm for clear-sky irradiance was developed and used to determine the relative irradiance f, which quantifies the percentage of solar radiation absorbed and scattered due to atmospheric aerosol particles and clouds. Aerosol optical depth (AOD) was calculated from irradiances measured with the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) sensor, onboard the TERRA and AQUA satellites, and was validated with ground-based AOD measurements from AERONET sun photometers. Carbon fluxes were measured using eddy-correlation techniques at LBA (The Large Scale Biosphere–Atmosphere Experiment in Amazonia) flux towers. Two sites were studied: the Biological Reserve of Jaru (located in Rondonia) and the Cuieiras Biological Reserve (located in a preserved region in central Amazonia). In the Jaru Biological Reserve, a 29% increase in carbon uptake (NEE) was observed when the AOD ranged from 0.10 to 1.5. In the Cuieiras Biological Reserve, this effect was smaller, accounting for an approximately 20% increase in NEE. High aerosol loading (AOD above 3 at 550 nm) or cloud cover leads to reductions in solar flux and strong decreases in photosynthesis up to the point where NEE approaches 0. The observed increase in NEE is attributed to an enhancement (~50%) in the diffuse fraction of photosynthetic active radiation (PAR). Significant changes in air temperature and relative humidity resulting from changes in solar radiation fluxes under high aerosol loading were also observed at both sites. Considering the long-range transport of aerosols in Amazonia, the observed changes in NEE for these two sites may occur over large areas in Amazonia, significantly altering the carbon balance in the largest rainforest of the world.
A Tropical West Pacific OH minimum and implications for stratospheric composition
Authors: Rex M. , Wohltmann I. , Ridder T. , Lehmann R. , Rosenlof K. , Wennberg P. , Weisenstein D. , Notholt J. , Krüger K. , Mohr V. , Tegtmeier S.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Hundreds of biogenic and anthropogenic chemical species are emitted into the atmosphere. Most break down efficiently by reaction with OH and do not reach the stratosphere. Here we show the existence of pronounced minima in the tropospheric columns of ozone and OH over the West Pacific, the main source region for stratospheric air. We show that this amplifies the impact of surface emissions on the stratospheric composition. Specifically, emissions of biogenic halogenated species from natural sources and from kelp and seaweed farming can have a larger effect on stratospheric ozone depletion. Increasing anthropogenic emissions of SO2 in South East Asia or from minor volcanic eruptions can play a larger role for the stratospheric aerosol budget, a key element for explaining the recently observed decrease in global warming rates (Solomon et al., 2011).
Gradient estimation using configurations of two or three spacecraft
Authors: Vogt J. , Sorbalo E. , He M. , Blagau A.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. The forthcoming three-satellite mission Swarm will allow us to investigate plasma processes and phenomena in the upper ionosphere from an in-situ multi-spacecraft perspective. Since with less than four points in space the spatiotemporal ambiguity cannot be resolved fully, analysis tools for estimating spatial gradients, wave vectors, or boundary parameters need to utilise additional information such as geometrical or dynamical constraints. This report deals with gradient estimation where the planar component is constructed using instantaneous three-point observations or, for quasi-static structures, by means of measurements along the orbits of two close spacecraft. A new least squares (LS) gradient estimator for the latter case is compared with existing finite difference (FD) schemes and also with a three-point LS technique. All available techniques are presented in a common framework to facilitate error analyses and consistency checks, and to show how arbitrary combinations of planar gradient estimators and constraints can be formed. The accuracy of LS and FD planar gradient estimators is assessed in terms of prescribed and adjustable discretization parameters to optimise their performance along the satellite orbits. Furthermore, we discuss the implications of imperfect constraint equations for error propagation, and address the effects of sub-scale structures. The two-spacecraft LS scheme is demonstrated using Cluster FGM measurements at a planar and essentially force-free plasma boundary in the solar wind where all three different types of constraints to construct out-of-plane derivatives can be applied.
Consistency of the multi-model CMIP5/PMIP3-past1000 ensemble
Authors: Bothe O. , Jungclaus J. H. , Zanchettin D.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. We present an assessment of the probabilistic and climatological consistency of the CMIP5/PMIP3 ensemble simulations for the last millennium relative to proxy-based reconstructions under the paradigm of a statistically indistinguishable ensemble. We evaluate whether simulations and reconstructions are compatible realizations of the unknown past climate evolution. A lack of consistency is diagnosed in surface air temperature data for the Pacific, European and North Atlantic regions. On the other hand, indications are found that temperature signals partially agree in the western tropical Pacific, the subtropical North Pacific and the South Atlantic. Deviations from consistency may change between sub-periods, and they may include pronounced opposite biases in different sub-periods. These distributional inconsistencies originate mainly from differences in multi-centennial to millennial trends. Since the data uncertainties are only weakly constrained, the frequently too wide ensemble distributions prevent the formal rejection of consistency of the simulation ensemble. The presented multi-model ensemble consistency assessment gives results very similar to a previously discussed single-model ensemble suggesting that structural and parametric uncertainties do not exceed forcing and internal variability uncertainties.
Results of the post flash-flood disaster investigations in the Transylvanian Depression (Romania) during the last decade (2001–2010)
Authors: Arghiuş V. , Ozunu A. , Samara I. , Roşian G.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Flash flood disasters are very rare in the Transylvanian Depression. In the last decades just three events were signalled in the study area, all of them during the last 10 yr. The flash floods occurring in the study area during the last decade had a significant impact on several localities situated at the Transylvanian Depression border. Based on the post flash flood investigation, the present study intends to find out the main characteristics of the flash-floods and the causes that have led to disasters in a region rarely affected by such kind of events. Analyzing the hydrological data, has been seen that the maximum intensity of the flash floods was observed in the upper and middle basins. By comparing the unit peak discharges from the studied region with other specific peak discharges related to the significant flash floods from Romania, it was noticed that the events from the Transylvanian Depression have moderate to low intensity. On the other hand, the results showed that beside high stream power and unexpected character common to flash floods, the inappropriate flood risk management measures increased the dimension of negative effects, leading to tens of life losses and economical damages of tens million dollars.
The Stakeholder Game: Pleadings and Reasons in Environmental Policy
Authors: Hiedanpää Juha , Bromley Daniel W.
Published: November 2013

A commitment to receive input from stakeholders is often obligatory in the crafting of environmental policies. This requirement is presumed to satisfy certain conditions of democracy. In this article, by drawing from pragmatism, we examine the logic of participation and prerequisites of the meaningful game of asking for and giving reasons. We elaborate the nature and significance of three components—the game, the pleadings, and the reasons. We conclude by offering the conditions under which the stakeholder game might be considered legitimate.
Revisión del constructo de Identidad en la Psicología Cultural
Authors: González R. Sergio , Cavieres H. Héctor , Díaz C. Carlos , Valdebenito S. Mariela
Published: November 2013

El presente texto realiza una mirada actualizada sobre el constructo Identidad desde las perspectivas Historicista y Socioconstruccionista en Psicología Social y Cultural. Se analizan los contenidos determinantes de la constitución de la Identidad, tales como los propios de la individuación, de la organización de los significados, de los mediadores simbólicos de la experiencia, de la intersubjetividad y las posibles fronteras culturales de la Identidad. Este trabajo es producto del intercambio académico realizado en el Seminario de Psicología Cultural del Programa de Doctorado en Psicología de la Universidad de Chile, impartido el primer semestre 2005 por el primer autor.
Centro de Atención Psicológica de la Escuela de Psicología de la Universidad de Santiago de Chile: Una Experiencia de Reestructuración Inspirada en los Modelos Biopsicosocial y de Salud Pública.
Authors: Loubat O. Margarita , Magaña F. Irene
Published: November 2013

Este artículo describe el Proyecto de Desarrollo del Centro de Atención Psicológica(CAP) de la Escuela de Psicología de la Universidad de Santiago de Chile(EPUSACH), entre los años 2001-2005, en el que se considera tanto la mirada Bio- Psico-Social en Salud como indicadores de Salud Pública. El propósito de este Proyecto es primero, realizar un trabajo en el marco de la Salud Mental vinculado a la realidad nacional, desde un Organismo de Educación Superior, que pusiera al Centro en relevancia respecto al importante aporte que este puede realizar como institución universitaria, en beneficio de la Salud Mental del sector en que se encuentra ubicado. Segundo, diseñar un modelo de atención que aportara al currículo formativo del psicólogo clínico de la EPUSACH. Además, el artículo resume algunos de los datos centrales de la atención del CAP, en el período correspondiente.
Factores de Cambio en un Programa Terapéutico de Hospitalización Diurna para Trastornos Graves de la Personalidad: Visión de los Terapeutas
Authors: Martínez C , Tapia P , Astudillo C
Published: November 2013

Los tratamientos de día para pacientes con trastorno de personalidad han adquiridomayor fuerza en la última década debido a los esfuerzos por desarrollar tratamientos con mejor costo-efectividad. Los resultados de múltiples investigaciones en eltema han sido auspiciosos, aunque sin total claridad acerca de los ingredientes activosque contribuirían al cambio logrado. Con el fin de comprender la forma en queactúan estos tratamientos sobre el cambio terapéutico, este trabajo analiza la visiónsubjetiva de los terapeutas sobre la contribución particular y de conjunto de las diversasactividades que conforman uno de estos programas. Utilizando metodologíacualitativa, los resultados muestran el énfasis en la capacidad de reflexión y en lanominación de las emociones como dos aspectos esenciales que podrían contribuiral cambio en estos pacientes. Se discuten los datos por las implicancias que tienenpara las técnicas utilizadas en el programa.
La Importancia de los Determinantes Colectivos del Desempeño en la Evaluación de Competencias
Authors: Andrés Pucheu Juan
Published: November 2013

Hoy en día es posible observar el uso de múltiples modelos de competencias, lamayoría de los cuales asume que la capacidad o competencia es una propiedad delindividuo y que este la puede ejercer con independencia de factores colectivos uorganizacionales. Esta falta de consideración por los determinantes colectivos oambientales del desempeño es una debilidad que no sólo no corresponde al estado actual de las teorías científicas sobre personalidad, si no que además puede originar aplicaciones infructuosas e incluso la asignación inadecuada de responsabilidades ante deficiencias en el desempeño. Este artículo presenta una modelo de análisis que remedia estas carencias y señala dos ejemplos de aplicación obtenidos en estudios de consultoría e investigación académica.
Enfermería y apoyo emocional: la perspectiva de la panturienta
Authors: Lima da Motta Cibele Cunha , Ojeda Ocampo Moré Carmen Leontina
Published: November 2013

El objetivo de este trabajo fue caracterizar los tipos de atención ofrecidos a la parturienta, pretendiendo detectar la calidad de apoyo emocional ofrecido por el equipo de enfermería. En este estudio cualitativo, de carácter exploratorio y descriptivo, la recolección de datos fue realizada en dos etapas: (1) observación del trabajo de parto y (2) entrevistas semi estructuradas realizadas en el pos parto con 14 primetizas de entre 17 y 34 años. Los resultados caracterizaron las interacciones entre la parturienta y el grupo de enfermería, y fueron presentados en tres categorías: atención de rutina, atención interactiva y apoyo emocional. La investigación demostró cómo las parturientas perciben el apoyo dado por el equipo y cómo esto tuvo influencia en el trabajo de parto.
Safety of Human Neural Stem Cell Transplantation in Chronic Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Piltti Katja M. , Salazar Desiree L. , Uchida Nobuko , Cummings Brian J. , Anderson Aileen J.
Published: November 2013

The spinal cord injury (SCI) microenvironment undergoes dynamic changes over time, which could potentially affect survival or differentiation of cells in early versus delayed transplantation study designs. Accordingly, assessment of safety parameters, including cell survival, migration, fate, sensory fiber sprouting, and behavioral measures of pain sensitivity in animals receiving transplants during the chronic postinjury period is required for establishing a potential therapeutic window. The goal of the study was assessment of safety parameters for delayed transplantation of human central nervous system-derived neural stem cells (hCNS-SCns) by comparing hCNS-SCns transplantation in the subacute period, 9 days postinjury (DPI), versus the chronic period, 60 DPI, in contusion-injured athymic nude rats. Although the number of surviving human cells after chronic transplantation was lower, no changes in cell migration were detected between the 9 and 60 DPI cohorts; however, the data suggest chronic transplantation may have enhanced the generation of mature oligodendrocytes. The timing of transplantation did not induce changes in allodynia or hyperalgesia measures. Together, these data support the safety of hCNS-SCns transplantation in the chronic period post-SCI.
Intravenous Multipotent Adult Progenitor Cell Therapy Attenuates Activated Microglial/Macrophage Response and Improves Spatial Learning After Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Bedi Supinder S. , Hetz Robert , Thomas Chelsea , Smith Philippa , Olsen Alex B. , Williams Stephen , Xue Hasen , Aroom Kevin , Uray Karen , Hamilton Jason , Mays Robert W. , Cox Charles S.
Published: November 2013

We previously demonstrated that the intravenous delivery of multipotent adult progenitor cells (MAPCs) after traumatic brain injury (TBI) in rodents provides neuroprotection by preserving the blood-brain barrier and systemically attenuating inflammation in the acute time frame following cell treatment; however, the long-term behavioral and anti-inflammatory effects of MAPC administration after TBI have yet to be explored. We hypothesized that the intravenous injection of MAPCs after TBI attenuates the inflammatory response (as measured by microglial morphology) and improves performance at motor tasks and spatial learning (Morris water maze [MWM]). MAPCs were administered intravenously 2 and 24 hours after a cortical contusion injury (CCI). We tested four groups at 120 days after TBI: sham (uninjured), injured but not treated (CCI), and injured and treated with one of two concentrations of MAPCs, either 2 million cells per kilogram (CCI-2) or 10 million cells per kilogram (CCI-10). CCI-10 rats showed significant improvement in left hind limb deficit on the balance beam. On the fifth day of MWM trials, CCI-10 animals showed a significant decrease in both latency to platform and distance traveled compared with CCI. Probe trials revealed a significant decrease in proximity measure in CCI-10 compared with CCI, suggesting improved memory retrieval. Neuroinflammation was quantified by enumerating activated microglia in the ipsilateral hippocampus. We observed a significant decrease in the number of activated microglia in the dentate gyrus in CCI-10 compared with CCI. Our results demonstrate that intravenous MAPC treatment after TBI in a rodent model offers long-term improvements in spatial learning as well as attenuation of neuroinflammation.
Subdued, a TMEM16 family Ca2+-activated Cl− channel in Drosophila melanogaster with an unexpected role in host defense
Authors: Wong Xiu Ming , Younger Susan , Peters Christian J , Jan Yuh Nung , Jan Lily Y
Published: November 2013

TMEM16A and TMEM16B are calcium-activated chloride channels (CaCCs) with important functions in mammalian physiology. Whether distant relatives of the vertebrate TMEM16 families also form CaCCs is an intriguing open question. Here we report that a TMEM16 family member from Drosophila melanogaster, Subdued (CG16718), is a CaCC. Amino acid substitutions of Subdued alter the ion selectivity and kinetic properties of the CaCC channels heterologously expressed in HEK 293T cells. This Drosophila channel displays characteristics of classic CaCCs, thereby providing evidence for evolutionarily conserved biophysical properties in the TMEM16 family. Additionally, we show that knockout flies lacking subdued gene activity more readily succumb to death caused by ingesting the pathogenic bacteria Serratia marcescens, suggesting that subdued has novel functions in Drosophila host defense.
Sgol2 provides a regulatory platform that coordinates essential cell cycle processes during meiosis I in oocytes
Authors: Rattani Ahmed , Wolna Magda , Ploquin Mickael , Helmhart Wolfgang , Morrone Seamus , Mayer Bernd , Godwin Jonathan , Xu Wenqing , Stemmann Olaf , Pendas Alberto , Nasmyth Kim
Published: November 2013

Accurate chromosome segregation depends on coordination between cohesion resolution and kinetochore-microtubule interactions (K-fibers), a process regulated by the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC). How these diverse processes are coordinated remains unclear. We show that in mammalian oocytes Shugoshin-like protein 2 (Sgol2) in addition to protecting cohesin, plays an important role in turning off the SAC, in promoting the congression and bi-orientation of bivalents on meiosis I spindles, in facilitating formation of K-fibers and in limiting bivalent stretching. Sgol2’s ability to protect cohesin depends on its interaction with PP2A, as is its ability to silence the SAC, with the latter being mediated by direct binding to Mad2. In contrast, its effect on bivalent stretching and K-fiber formation is independent of PP2A and mediated by recruitment of MCAK and inhibition of Aurora C kinase activity respectively. By virtue of its multiple interactions, Sgol2 links many of the processes essential for faithful chromosome segregation.
Expansion of intestinal Prevotella copri correlates with enhanced susceptibility to arthritis
Authors: Scher Jose U , Sczesnak Andrew , Longman Randy S , Segata Nicola , Ubeda Carles , Bielski Craig , Rostron Tim , Cerundolo Vincenzo , Pamer Eric G , Abramson Steven B , Huttenhower Curtis , Littman Dan R
Published: November 2013

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a prevalent systemic autoimmune disease, caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Animal models suggest a role for intestinal bacteria in supporting the systemic immune response required for joint inflammation. Here we performed 16S sequencing on 114 stool samples from rheumatoid arthritis patients and controls, and shotgun sequencing on a subset of 44 such samples. We identified the presence of Prevotella copri as strongly correlated with disease in new-onset untreated rheumatoid arthritis (NORA) patients. Increases in Prevotella abundance correlated with a reduction in Bacteroides and a loss of reportedly beneficial microbes in NORA subjects. We also identified unique Prevotella genes that correlated with disease. Further, colonization of mice revealed the ability of P. copri to dominate the intestinal microbiota and resulted in an increased sensitivity to chemically induced colitis. This work identifies a potential role for P. copri in the pathogenesis of RA.
Characterizing Edge and Stacking Structures of Exfoliated Graphene by Photoelectron Diffraction
Authors: Matsui Fumihiko , Ishii Ryo , Matsuda Hiroyuki , Morita Makoto , Kitagawa Satoshi , Matsushita Tomohiro , Koh Shinji , Daimon Hiroshi
Published: November 2013

The two-dimensional C 1s photoelectron intensity angular distributions (PIADs) and spectra of exfoliated graphene flakes and crystalline graphite were measured using a focused soft X-ray beam. Suitable graphene samples were selected by thickness characterization using Raman spectromicroscopy after transferring mechanically exfoliated graphene flakes onto a 90-nm-thick SiO2 film. In every PIAD, a Kagomé interference pattern was observed, particularly clearly in the monolayer graphene PIAD. Its origin is the overlap of the diffraction rings formed by an in-plane C–C bond honeycomb lattice. Thus, the crystal orientation of each sample can be determined. In the case of bilayer graphene, PIAD was threefold-symmetric, while those of monolayer graphene and crystalline graphite were sixfold-symmetric. This is due to the stacking structure of bilayer graphene. From comparisons with the multiple scattering PIAD simulation results, the way of layer stacking as well as the termination types in the edge regions of bilayer graphene flakes were determined. Furthermore, two different C 1s core levels corresponding to the top and bottom layers of bilayer graphene were identified. A chemical shift to a higher binding energy by 0.25 eV for the bottom layer was attributed to interfacial interactions.
Steep Increase in Substrate Current in Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor with Multiple-Gate Configuration
Authors: Abe Kazuhide
Published: November 2013

A steep increase in substrate current has been observed in a metal–oxide–semiconductor field-effect transistor with a multiple-gate configuration. Regarding gate voltage dependence, the substrate current plotted on a logarithmic scale exhibited a sharp rise with a slope of 6 mV/decade, which is 20 times steeper than that simultaneously measured for the drain current. Since the slope is even 10 times steeper than the ideal subthreshold swing of 60 mV/decade, the upsurge has been discussed using a hypothetical model in which the impact ionization rate is increased by excitation of acoustic standing waves within the device.
Transient Current in the Spin Blockade Region of a Double Quantum Dot
Authors: Sharmin Sonia , Muraki Koji , Fujisawa Toshimasa
Published: November 2013

We investigate the slow transient buildup of leakage current influenced by dynamic spin polarization (DNP) in the spin blockade region of a double quantum dot (DQD). We focused on slightly off-resonant conditions, where the current is extremely small with nominally unpolarized nuclear spins. Leaving the system in such a situation causes the current to increase stepwise twice. Such transient current steps can be understood by considering that at the first step inhomogeneous nuclear spin polarization significantly increases while at the second step stable polarization is attained. We believe that the DNP produces a feedback effect.
Electron Excitation Memory Induced by Light Irradiation of Hydrogenated Si Nanocrystals Embedded in SiO2
Authors: Murakami Kouichi , Nagahashi Ayako , Uchida Noriyuki , Fukata Naoki
Published: November 2013

We demonstrate an electron excitation effect in silicon nanocrystals (SiNCs) embedded in a SiO2 layer treated with hydrogen atoms for passivation of interface defects. Using electron spin resonance (ESR) measurements of quasi-conduction electrons (QCE) excited at lower temperatures, we observed the enhancement of the number of QCE in SiNCs by light irradiation. The electron excitation effect is retained at temperatures lower than 250 K after stopping the light irradiation. The dependence on the size of SiNCs and on excitation laser wavelength suggest that the main memory process is caused by photo-induced electron charging induced through electron excitation of interface states between SiNCs and SiO2.