bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Online NIR Sensor for the Pilot-Scale Extraction Process in Fructus Aurantii Coupled with Single and Ensemble Methods
Authors: Pan Xiaoning , Li Yang , Wu Zhisheng , Zhang Qiao , Zheng Zhou , Shi Xinyuan , Qiao Yanjiang
Published: April 2015

Model performance of the partial least squares method (PLS) alone and bagging-PLS was investigated in online near-infrared (NIR) sensor monitoring of pilot-scale extraction process in Fructus aurantii. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used as a reference method to identify the active pharmaceutical ingredients: naringin, hesperidin and neohesperidin. Several preprocessing methods and synergy interval partial least squares (SiPLS) and moving window partial least squares (MWPLS) variable selection methods were compared. Single quantification models (PLS) and ensemble methods combined with partial least squares (bagging-PLS) were developed for quantitative analysis of naringin, hesperidin and neohesperidin. SiPLS was compared to SiPLS combined with bagging-PLS. Final results showed the root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) of bagging-PLS to be lower than that of PLS regression alone. For this reason, an ensemble method of online NIR sensor is here proposed as a means of monitoring the pilot-scale extraction process in Fructus aurantii, which may also constitute a suitable strategy for online NIR monitoring of CHM.
The Evolution of the Coastal Economy: The Role of Working Waterfronts in the Alabama Gulf Coast
Authors: Zhang Yaoqi , Li Sheng , Guo Zhimei
Published: April 2015

This article describes the evolution of the coastal economy in Alabama and examines the driving forces of the sustainable economy in a historical context. The input-output model was applied to assess the direct and secondary effects of output and employment in the coastal region. Results suggest that state industries are heavily dependent on waterfront-related activities in this area, which have fueled much of their rapid development in the past few decades. Tourism, ship building and repairing and transportation are the three dominating sources contributing to the coastal economy. There are a few general problems of working waterfronts in the coastal Alabama area, but there are also some unique problems (e.g., Hurricane Katrina, Deepwater Horizon oil spill). Policies for future sustainable development are proposed.
Ranking Water Transparency of Dutch Stock-Listed Companies
Authors: Linneman Marissa , Hoekstra Arjen , Berkhout Wouter
Published: April 2015

A growing world population, changing consumption patterns and climate change are affecting water demands, water scarcity and water quality worldwide, while at present, few companies are incorporating good water stewardship. In order to create awareness on this issue and provide an incentive for companies to improve the water performance in their operations and supply chain, a method for ranking companies based on their water transparency has been developed. The method consists of a checklist that can be completed on the basis of information from annual reports, sustainability reports and websites of companies. This is the first time a ranking of companies regarding water transparency has been carried out. Results show that there are large differences in transparency between and within sectors and that companies are reporting more about their operations than their supply chain.
Geodetic monitoring of bridge deformations occurring during static load testing
Authors: Mill Tarvo , Ellmann Artu , Kiisa Martti , Idnurm Juhan , Idnurm Siim , Horemuz Milan , Aavik Andrus
Published: April 2015

Terrestrial laser scanning technology has developed rapidly in recent years and has been used in various applications but mainly in the surveying of different buildings and historical monuments. The use for terrestrial laser scanning data for deformation monitoring has earlier been tested although conventional surveying technologies are still more preferred. Since terrestrial laser scanners are capable of acquiring a large amount of highly detailed geometrical data from a surface it is of interest to study the metrological advantages of the terrestrial laser scanning technology for deformation monitoring of structures. The main intention of this study is to test the applicability of terrestrial laser scanning technology for determining range and spatial distribution of deformations during bridge load tests. The study presents results of deformation monitoring proceeded during a unique bridge load test. A special monitoring methodology was developed and applied at a static load test of a reinforced concrete cantilever bridge built in 1953. Static loads with the max force of up to 1961 kN (200 t) were applied onto an area of 12 m² in the central part of one of the main beams; the collapse of the bridge was expected due to such an extreme load. Although the study identified occurrence of many cracks in the main beams and significant vertical deformations, both deflection (–4.2 cm) and rising (+2.5 cm), the bridge did not collapse. The terrestrial laser scanning monitoring results were verified by high-precision levelling. The study results confirmed that the TLS accuracy can reach ±2.8 mm at 95% confidence level.
Evaluation of the safety performance of turbo roundabouts by means of a potential accident rate model
Authors: Mauro Raffaele , Cattani Marco , Guerrieri Marco
Published: April 2015

Turbo roundabouts are a particular road intersection layout, designed to increase the safety of double-lane roundabouts, while maintaining their excellent capacity. The main feature of this new concept of roundabout is the impossibility to move from one lane to another, provided by physical barriers marking the lanes. The paper shows an application to turbo roundabouts of a potential accident rate model, aiming to evaluate their safety improvement. Themodel is based on the concept of potential conflict: each vehicle involved in a general intersection performs a series of maneuvers which potentially imply a crash, according to the actual traffic. The number of accidents related to each critical maneuver is proportional to the number of times this maneuver occurs at the intersection. In order to define the critical maneuvers, and hence the relevant potential conflicts, specific crash typologies for roundabouts are adopted. Traffic volumes are required, to evaluate the expected number of accidents, and also probabilities of accident for every critical maneuver. These ratios were obtained by a model calibration, based on actual accident and traffic data recorded on conventional single and double-lane roundabouts. The model was then used to compare four-leg turbo roundabouts to conventional roundabouts. The comparisons have taken into account only basic differences in layout, such as geometric elements, that also play a role in determining safety performances of a roundabout. The results obtained show that turbo roundabouts significantly decrease the accident rate with respect to conventional roundabouts, by eliminating conflicts between circulating and exiting vehicles.
Comparison of calculated and measured thermal stresses in asphalt concrete
Authors: Pszczoła Marek , Judycki Józef
Published: April 2015

The paper presents the comparison of calculated and measured thermal stresses induced in restrained asphalt concrete specimens by cooling. Thermal stresses were measured in the Thermal Stress Restrained Specimen Test. The calculations of thermal stresses were performed with the use of a theoretical formula based on the temperature dependent stiffness modulus. The novel approach applied in this paper was that the stiffness modulus of asphalt concrete which was used in calculations was measured in a creep test at low temperatures on the same material which was used in the Thermal Stress Restrained Specimen Test. Realistic values of stiffness moduli resulted in a good compatibility between calculated and measured thermal stresses. The creep test at low temperatures was performed in bending according to the method developed at the Gdansk University of Technology. Three types of bitumen were used to produce asphalt concrete. The lowest thermal stresses were induced in the Thermal Stress Restrained Specimen Test in asphalt concrete with 50/70 multigrade bitumen, next with DE 80B SBS polymer modified bitumen and the highest with 50/70 plain bitumen.
Analysis of stress relaxation in jointed plain concrete pavements
Authors: Pradena Mauricio , Houben Lambert
Published: April 2015

The cracks in concrete pavements are formed at early-age as consequence of internal stresses in the concrete. Therefore, the stress relaxation has an essential influence on the cracking process. To model this process allows to identify, for instance, the time for saw-cutting the joints or the cracks width that affects load transfer. Previously, the authors proposed a new equation of the relaxation factor, based on a theoretical and practical analysis of the transversal cracking in jointed plain concrete pavements. The objective of the present paper is to analyze the utility of this new equation of relaxation in the design and construction of jointed plain concrete pavements. For that, other cracking processes in plain concrete pavements (jointed and non-jointed) were modelled with the proposed equation. Wherever is possible the modelling results were compared with observations of the real behaviour of pavements. From the design point of view, with the modelling results of transverse crack width (>1.0 mm) is possible to considerate in the design, optimal slabs length with thinner cracks for better aggregate interlock. And for the longitudinal cracking in jointed plain concrete pavements, the modelling and the field observations, yield cracks width that provide load transfer (0.1 mm). From the construction point of view, the cracking process in non-jointed plain concrete pavements, shows is possible to construct pavements of 7 m width in one gang without cracks risk, and adjustments can be made to a better prediction of the time of occurrence of the 1st transverse cracks.
The influence of binder rheological properties on asphalt mixture permanent deformation
Authors: Gajewski Marcin , Sybilski Dariusz , Bańkowski Wojciech
Published: April 2015

The main goal of this paper is to propose the performance parameter for binder which is good for quality prediction of asphalt mixture in frame of resistance to permanent deformation (rutting). Additionally, correlation between, proposed by the authors, repeatable shear creep-recovery test carried out on binder and bituminous mixture rutting test is under evaluation. The results are analysed and correlation between the proposed functional parameter and rut depth is shown. Thanks to that it is possible to claim that expensive rutting test procedure can be assisted with simple test carried out in dynamic shear rheometer at the initial mix design procedure.
Stabilization of problematic silty sands using microsilica and lime
Authors: Ghorbani Ali , Hasanzadehshooiili Hadi , Karimi Masoud , Daghigh Younes , Medzvieckas Jurgis
Published: April 2015

In this study, to stabilize problematic silty sand soils, Microsilica-Lime admixture was used as an additive. Various samples containing 0, 1, 2, 5, 10 and 15% (by weight) Microsilica and 0, 1, 3 and 5% (by weight) Lime were prepared. To investigate the role of the studied additives on the stabilization of the sandy soils, unconfined compressive strength of the materials and their swelling potential, were considered. To do this, unconfined compressive strength test, California Bearing Ratio, also, swelling tests were carried out. As a result, the unconfined compressive strength of samples with 10% Microsilica and 3% Lime in curing time of 28 days was obtained about 50 times larger than the strength of the untreated samples. On the other hand, the samples stabilized only with 1% Lime showed considerable swelling potential while adding only 1% Microsilica caused a considerable reduce in the amount of swelling. Unconfined compressive strength of samples containing 1% Microsilica and 1% Lime was about 12 times larger than the strength of the untreated samples and these samples showed less swelling potential. Then, these amounts are considered as the optimal amounts, which are used in the road construction projects. Also, the results obtained from scanning the samples using electron microscope illustrated that the Microsilica causes to form crystalline micro-structures in the soil which is the main cause for increasing the strength of stabilized samples.
The use of road weather information system data for the forecasts of climatic conditions
Authors: Laurinavičius Alfredas , Bertulienė Lina , Minkevič Arina
Published: April 2015

The article studies possibility by using the data of the Road Weather Information Systems to forecast the beginning of precipitation on the roads maintained by the state road maintenance enterprises. The article discusses the importance of forecasts both to the road users as well as road maintenance enterprises, especially in a cold period of the year. The hazards caused by meteorological phenomena specific of winter season are presented. Research methodology is described which is based on the speed of movement of clouds carrying precipitation. To calculate speed the theoretical background is given assisting in selection of certain parameters for the determination of this value. Knowing the speed of movement of clouds the forecasts have been made. Results of the forecasts are compared to the real parameters and it is determined in what radius the forecasts are advisable to be made.
Selecting warm mix asphalt additives by the properties of warm mix asphalt mixtures - China experience
Authors: Li Xinsheng , Xie Zhaoxing , Fan Wenzhong , Wang Lili , Shen Junan
Published: April 2015

The objective of this research was to select the most effective warm asphalt additives for mix practice based on a series of laboratory testing programs such as density, Marshall stability, freeze-thaw splitting strength, dynamic stability, and bending beam strain. The experimental design of warm mix asphalt included the use of three commonlyused additives, two typical aggregate gradations, one crushed aggregate, and one modified asphalt. Results showed that: (1) the bulk specific gravity and air voids of all the mix specimens were similar to those of controls; (2) the Marshall stability and flow values of the warm stone mastic asphalt were 6.8%–26.6% and 3.5%–10.3%% higher than those of controls, respectively, and those of the warm asphalt concrete were 6.1%–15.6% and 6.5%–9.7% higher than those of controls, respectively; (3) the indirect tensile strength of two types of mixtures was 1.7%–14.4% lower than that of controls, and the average tensile strength ratio of the warm stone mastic asphalt and asphalt concrete was 4.3% and 1.3% higher than that of controls, respectively; (4) the dynamic stability of warm mix specimens was 10.8%–16.6% lower than that of the controls; (5) the average bending failure strain of warm stone mastic asphalt was 7.6% higher than that of the controls, and that of warm asphalt concrete was 12.8% lower than that of the controls; (6) Overall, warm asphalt mixtures with Sasobit and Rediset had relatively best performances required in Southeast China, where rutting and stripping are the main failures of asphalt pavements.
Experimental study for determination of collar dimensions around bridge pier
Authors: Jahangirzadeh Afshin , Akib Shatirah
Published: April 2015

The shape and size of a collar is important to maximize its effect as a scour countermeasure. Current research shows that the depth of the scour hole is decreased by using rectangular collars around circular piers. This study determined the approximate optimum dimensions for rectangular collars to minimize the temporal trend of scouring around a pier model. Effects of different sizes of rectangular collars on a model pier were investigated both at the upstream and downstream of the flume. It was observed that irrespective of the rectangular collar dimensions the upstream and the downstream were estimated to be 0.86 and 1.42, respectively. The optimum collar width was estimated to be 2.8 times the diameter of the pier. By using this optimized collar dimension, the non-dimensional depth of scour reached a min value of 0.034 at 72 h. The reduction percentage of the scour depth reached 98% at 72 h.
Influence of bitumen chemical composition and ageing on pavement performance
Authors: Paliukaitė Miglė , Vaitkus Audrius , Zofka Adam
Published: April 2015

The quality of road bitumen in asphalt mixtures is one of the most important factors affecting performance of the entire pavement structure during its service. In particular, the type and refining technology of the crude oil are the most significant aspects influencing bitumen properties. As the same time it is still necessary to assess other aspects that contribute to the changes in bitumen properties, such as bitumen aging during asphalt mixing, storage, transportation, laying and a gradually increasing oxidation in asphalt pavement structure during pavement service life. Bitumen originating from different producers and supplied to Lithuanian market satisfies the requirements of European standards concerning the basic physical properties, albeit certain instability processes in bitumen properties can be observed: bitumen is more liquid and less sticky at a laying temperature; reduced cohesion, increased cracking during compaction; reduced adhesion between bitumen and mineral materials; changes in perceptible properties (odour, colour), and others. These observations have led to numerous discussions on the potential ways of improving bitumen quality, selection of proper methods for bitumen quality assessment and determination of the recommended threshold values. The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the effect of bitumen chemical composition and associated structure on asphalt pavement performance. Performance was expressed in terms of susceptibility to rutting measured by the Performance Grade system developed in the US. Based on the results obtained during this experimental study the limit values of bitumen fractional composition were identified.
Internet and the elderly: Enhancing active ageing
Authors: Llorente-Barroso Carmen , Viñarás-Abad Mónica , Sánchez-Valle María
Published: April 2015

Global ageing has led European and international organizations to develop programs for active ageing, in order to reconstruct the role of the elderly in society. Active ageing includes social communication aspects which have been the subject of less research than other more pressing ones linked to physical and economic characteristics. This research is centered on these communication variables; it addresses the link between the elderly and Internet, and has two main objectives: to discover how useful Internet is for this age group, and to explain the potential this medium has for active ageing. To do so, a qualitative methodology is used based on three discussion groups, each made up of four or five people between the ages of 56 and 81, led by an expert moderator. The results of the qualitative content analysis of each discussion indicate that the Internet is a source of opportunities for the elderly, and this potential may be divided into four categories: Information, communication, transactions and administration, together with leisure and entertainment. This potential improves the quality of life for the elderly and contributes to their active ageing. However, to maximize this, e-inclusion programs and methodologies are needed to make the Internet user-friendlier for the elderly and provide them with training in digital skills.

El progresivo envejecimiento de las sociedades ha llevado a los organismos internacionales y europeos a desarrollar programas de envejecimiento activo, capaces de construir una nueva cultura sobre el papel de las personas mayores en la sociedad. Estos incluyen aspectos sociales de carácter comunicacional que, sin embargo, han tenido menos desarrollo investigador que otros más apremiantes, vinculados a aspectos físicos y económicos. Esta investigación atiende precisamente a estas variables comunicacionales, abordando la vinculación de los mayores con Internet y planteándose dos objetivos principales: Conocer las utilidades que tiene Internet para este colectivo y explicar los motivos que convertirían a este medio en una fuente de oportunidades para un envejecimiento activo. Para satisfacerlos, se utiliza una metodología cualitativa que se apoya en el desarrollo de tres grupos de discusión constituidos por entre cinco y seis personas de 56 a 81 años y moderados por un experto. Los resultados obtenidos del análisis cualitativo del contenido en cada discusión indican que Internet es una fuente de oportunidades para los mayores, que pueden aglutinarse en cuatro categorías: informativas, comunicativas, transaccionales y administrativas, y de ocio y entretenimiento. Estas oportunidades optimizan la calidad de vida de los mayores y contribuyen a su envejecimiento activo, si bien, su máximo aprovechamiento precisa de programas de «e-Inclusion» y metodologías que aproximen Internet a los mayores, facilitándoles una formación en competencias digitales.
A mobile augmented reality assistive technology for the elderly
Authors: Saracchini Rafael , Catalina-Ortega Carlos , Bordoni Luca
Published: April 2015

Modern technology offers many facilities, but elderly people are often unable to enjoy them fully because they feel discouraged or intimidated by modern devices, and hus become progressively isolated in a society where Internet communication and ICT knowledge are essential. In this paper we present a study performed during the Nacodeal Project, which aims to offer a technological solution that may improve elderly people's every day autonomy and life quality through the integration of ICTs. In order to achieve this goal, state-of-art Augmented Reality technology was developed along with carefully designed Internet services and interfaces for mobile devices. Such technology only requires the infrastructure which already exists in most residences and health-care centres. We present the design of a prototypical system consisting of a tablet and a wearable AR system, and the evaluation of its impact on the social interaction of its users as well its acceptance and usability. This evaluation was performed, through focus groups and individual pilot tests, on 48 participants that included elderly people, caregivers and experts. Their feedback leads us to the conclusion that there are significant benefits to be gained and much interest among the elderly in assistive AR-based ICTs, particularly in relation to the communication and autonomy that they may provide.

Las posibilidades que ofrecen las tecnologías son muchas, sin embargo, las personas mayores son a menudo incapaces de disfrutar de ellas plenamente, sintiéndose desanimadas o intimidadas por estos nuevos dispositivos. Esto les lleva a un progresivo aislamiento en una sociedad donde es esencial conocer las distintas formas de comunicación a través de Internet y las TIC. En este trabajo presentamos un estudio realizado durante el proyecto Nacodeal, cuyo objetivo es ofrecer una solución tecnológica para proporcionar autonomía y una mejor calidad de vida para las personas mayores durante sus actividades diarias mediante la integración de las TIC. Para lograr este objetivo se ha desarrollado tecnología puntera en realidad aumentada (RA), así como servicios de Internet e interfaces para dispositivos móviles especialmente diseñados para personas mayores. Estas tecnologías emplean la infraestructura presente en la mayoría de casas y centros de cuidados de mayores. Presentamos un prototipo de sistema compuesto por una tableta y un dispositivo de RA portátil, así como el análisis del impacto social en la interacción con usuarios y la valoración de la aceptación y usabilidad. Esta evaluación se llevó a cabo a través de grupos focales y pruebas piloto individuales con 48 participantes: ancianos, cuidadores y expertos. Sus comentarios concluyen que existen fuertes beneficios e intereses por parte de las personas mayores en las TIC asistenciales basadas en RA, especialmente en los aspectos relacionados con la comunicación y autonomía.
Design patterns to enhance accessibility and use of social applications for older adults
Authors: Luna-García Huizilopoztli , Mendoza-González Ricardo , Álvarez-Rodríguez Francisco-Javier
Published: April 2015

The aim of this paper is to present a non-exhaustive set of 36 design patterns for interactive social applications used by older adults. This proposal represents a reliable starting point for designers/developers to easily incorporate usability in interfaces for said technology promoting technology acceptance, use and adoption among older adults. The proposed patterns were based on previous efforts commonly presented as a design criteria and guidelines to describe usability issues in this kind of interfaces, reinforcing those alternatives by specifying related usability issues and providing solutions in a pattern-fashion useful for designers/developers. Pertinence of the patterns was analyzed through a usability study implementing «heuristic evaluation» technique (frequently used in Human-Computer Interaction to obtain users’ perception on a particular design). The study was conducted from two perspectives: the vantage point from experts, and the perception of a social group of older adults. The analysis revealed the proposed patterns are conducive to create well-designed interfaces able to provide a better user experience, encouraging a positive impact in the quality of life in older adults.

El objetivo de este artículo fue proponer una colección no exhaustiva de 36 patrones para el diseño de interacciones en aplicaciones sociales para adultos mayores. La propuesta representa un punto de partida confiable para facilitar, a diseñadores/desarrolladores, la integración de usabilidad en las interfaces de estas tecnologías con el fin de fomentar su aceptación, uso y adopción entre los adultos mayores. Esta propuesta se basa en esfuerzos previos comúnmente expresados como criterios y guías de diseño para definir los posibles problemas de usabilidad en este tipo de interfaces, y se concentra en reforzar estos enfoques mediante la integración de una mayor descripción de tales anomalías y alternativas de solución bajo una estructura de patrones útil para los diseñadores/desarrolladores. Se realizó un estudio de usabilidad con la técnica «evaluación heurística» (comúnmente utilizada en interacción hombre-máquina para obtener la percepción de los usuarios sobre un diseño particular). El trabajo se llevó a cabo desde dos perspectivas: el punto de vista de expertos técnicos y la percepción de un grupo social de adultos mayores. Los resultados reflejaron que los patrones propuestos propician la creación de interfaces bien diseñadas capaces de ofrecer una mejor experiencia de uso y promueven un impacto positivo en la calidad de vida de los adultos mayores.
University teaching with digital technologies
Authors: Marcelo-García Carlos , Yot-Domínguez Carmen , Mayor-Ruiz Cristina
Published: April 2015

This research aims to analyze the level of use of technology by university teachers. We are interested by the frequency of their use in designing the teaching-learning process. The research questions were: what types of learning activities which include are designed by university teachers? What types of technologies do teachers use in the design of their instruction? What is the level of use of digital technologies in the learning designs? To respond to these issues, we designed an inventory of activities of learning technologies at the university which was completed by 941 Andalusian teachers. We have identified the type and frequency of use of technology by university lecturers in their different fields at the same time as studying learning activities that predominate in their learning designs. The results, first of all, reveal a poor integration of ICT in the teaching-learning processes which are, essentially, the teacher-centered learning activities. Secondly, we have identified four profiles which differentiate between d teachers depending on their level of use of ICT. The profile comprising an increased number of teachers makes making reference to the rare use of technology. There are teachers who use technology sparingly, and this is a very small range.

Esta investigación tiene por objetivo analizar el nivel de uso que de las tecnologías hace el profesorado universitario, interesándose tanto por la frecuencia de uso de ellas, como por el tipo de actividades de aprendizaje en las que se utilizan. Los problemas de investigación se centraron en: ¿qué tipos de actividades de aprendizaje con tecnologías diseñan los docentes universitarios?, ¿qué tipo de tecnologías utilizan los docentes en el diseño de su enseñanza?, ¿cuál es el nivel de uso de las tecnologías digitales en los diseños del aprendizaje del profesorado universitario? Hemos diseñado el Inventario de Actividades de Aprendizaje con Tecnologías en la Universidad que fue respondido por 941 docentes andaluces. A través de él hemos identificado el tipo y frecuencia de uso que de la tecnología hace el profesorado universitario en sus materias al tiempo que hemos estudiado las actividades de aprendizaje que predominan en sus diseños del aprendizaje. Los resultados revelan una pobre integración de tecnologías en los procesos de enseñanza-aprendizaje los cuales se constituyen, esencialmente, de actividades de aprendizaje centradas en el docente. Hemos identificado cuatro perfiles diferenciados de docentes en función del nivel de uso que hacen de las TIC. De los cuatro, el perfil que mayor número de docentes agrupa es el que hace referencia a un uso poco frecuente de la tecnología; son docentes que emplean escasamente la tecnología y esta es de una gama muy reducida.
Spanish journalists and the loss of news quality: Professional judgements
Authors: Gómez-Mompart Josep-Lluis , Gutiérrez-Lozano Juan-Francisco , Palau-Sampio Dolors
Published: April 2015

This article discusses the opinions of Spanish journalists on the quality of their professional work and how it is being affected by the current economic, technological, commercial and professional context. The results are based on a questionnaire in which 363 Spanish journalists participated, all with a minimum of three years experience. Their answers reflect on the structure and behavior of media companies and current production of news. The article specifically focuses on exposing the journalists’ opinions on the quality of their work. The results show that 81% of the participants state that standards of quality in journalistic production has deteriorated. This deterioration is believed to be connected to the effect of the economic struggles in the sector. They suggested that the principle motives of this decline lie in the lack of economic and political independence, a lack of private investment and in the problems caused by technological changes. These situations all fall into the context of a precarious labor market within the sector. The article also links the results with academic works that have analyzed the quality of journalism over recent years. It offers, for the first time in the Spanish academic context, the Spanish journalists’ own point of view on these issues.

Este artículo expone los resultados de una investigación acerca del modo en el que los periodistas españoles en ejercicio enjuician la calidad periodística y cómo esta se ve afectada por el contexto económico, tecnológico, empresarial, laboral y profesional actual del periodismo. El texto recoge los resultados de una encuesta en la que participan 363 periodistas españoles con al menos tres años de experiencia en medios de comunicación. Sus respuestas aluden, entre otros aspectos, a las reflexiones acerca de la estructura y el comportamiento de las empresas informativas, así como las características predominantes de la información periodística en la actualidad. En particular, el artículo se centra en exponer las consideraciones de los periodistas acerca del cuidado o esmero de su labor profesional. Entre los principales resultados destaca que el 81% de los encuestados reconoce un empeoramiento de los patrones de calidad del producto periodístico, que ligan a la crisis del sector. Entre las posibles causas se mencionan la falta de independencia económica y política de los medios, la falta de inversión empresarial y los problemas derivados de los cambios tecnológicos, todo ello en un contexto de precarización del mercado laboral periodístico. El artículo vincula estos resultados a otros estudios internacionales que han abordado, de manera sistemática, la calidad periodística, aportando por primera vez en el contexto académico español una perspectiva de la cuestión a partir de los propios profesionales.
Telecommunication industry contributions to child online protection
Authors: Recalde-Viana Mónica , Sádaba-Chalezquer Charo , Gutiérrez-García Elena
Published: April 2015

The technological landscape in relation to the minors presents numerous challenges facing the telecommunication industry, with families and schools. However, academic literature still remains silence in showing the strategic policies that the industry is managing in order to address these challenges. Therefore, this article has two aims: to provide an overview of the state of the art in order to present the main findings of the child protection policies in international telecom companies (17), stressing the analysis regarding their products and services and how do they manage the collaboration with key stakeholders. Research was conducted using qualitative methodology: CSR reports and websites of the companies were analysed in order to define what are their strategic actions, as well as the individuals and institutions that collaborate with. The findings show interesting insights, even with some differences by regions, among the most significant policies pursued by the sector are: self-regulation, product innovation regarding protection tools and a network of collaborations with stakeholders have been established, as an opportunity for facilitating new policies and strategies. In conclusion, telecom industry needs to integrate their policies regarding minor protection, promoting an integral management approach that comprises not only product development but also strengthen relationships with the main stakeholders as parents and institutions.

El paisaje tecnológico de las pantallas en relación al menor apunta a numerosos desafíos que la industria afronta junto a las familias y el sector educativo. Sin embargo, hay poca bibliografía que ahonde en las políticas estratégicas que está implantando el sector para hacer frente a los retos. Por ello, este artículo tiene dos objetivos: en primer lugar, realizar una síntesis del estado de la cuestión para, seguidamente, presentar los principales hallazgos sobre cómo están afrontando este panorama las 17 principales empresas internacionales en su política comercial y en su relación con grupos de interés. La metodología aplicada es de carácter cualitativo, y analiza los informes de responsabilidad social y webs de las compañías, con el fin de identificar las líneas estratégicas y acciones empresariales, así como las personas e instituciones con quienes colaboran. Los resultados muestran que, pese a algunas diferencias entre regiones, el sector se atiene a un interés por la autorregulación, la innovación en los productos, en las herramientas de protección, así como en el mantenimiento de una estrecha red de colaboraciones con grupos de interés, que permite retroalimentar las políticas y estrategias. De este análisis se concluye que el sector necesita integrar las políticas de protección al menor no solo con el desarrollo de productos responsables, sino estrechando aún más los vínculos con grupos de interés clave como padres e instituciones.
Une première approche de l’encyclique de Jean-Paul II « L’Église vit de l’Eucharistie »
Authors: Rigal Jean
Published: April 2015

Dans cette approche de la dernière encyclique de Jean-Paul II, il a paru important de relever d’abord les éléments novateurs de ce document, et en particulier son insistance trinitaire, cosmique, eschatologique et mariale. Les rappels tridentins et leurs incidence œcuméniques sont également manifestes, notamment par rapport à la notion de sacrifice, à la liturgie eucharistique, au pouvoir ministériel. À côté de différentes difficultés de langage, on remarquera le ton très personnel de certaines parties de ce nouveau document magistériel qui ne doit pas être isolé de l’enseignement de Vatican II et des recherches qui l’ont suivi.
Conçu du Saint-Esprit
Authors: Moschetta Jean-Marc
Published: April 2015

Les données de l’embryologie contemporaine sur la procréation humaine rendent aujourd’hui indéchiffrable la doctrine de la conception virginale dans sa dimension physiologique, référée à un schéma « agraire ». La réouverture des dossiers biblique et théologique ainsi que l’étude des religions comparées et de la psychanalyse invitent à recentrer les enjeux de la doctrine sur ses implications christologiques et à ne pas établir de rapport de nécessité entre la dimension biologique et la fonction théologique de la doctrine.
La liberté du Sauveur en agonie selon Maxime le Confesseur
Authors: Lafontaine René
Published: April 2015

Pour la théologie contemporaine qui explore la kénose du Verbe incarné et cherche à penser l’alliance de Dieu et de l’homme dans le respect de leur autonomie respective, la réflexion et l’exégèse de Maxime le Confesseur concernant l’agonie du Sauveur demeure un modèle de pensée christologique. Ce théologien byzantin du VII e siècle, intrépide et génial défenseur de la volonté humaine du Christ, a pu montrer comment le Sauveur a libéré la liberté humaine de ses aliénations en se l’appropriant en son premier souhait d’échapper à la mort afin de la convertir en son obéissance au Père. Ses Opuscules rendent compte d’une transposition progressive du couple traditionnel « nature-personne » dans l’ordre de la liberté, alliant la raison de la nature avec le mode personnel de la décision.
Évolution religieuse et émancipation dans l’œuvre de George Sand (1804-1876)
Authors: Renard Marie-Reine
Published: April 2015

À l’occasion des commémorations auxquelles donne lieu le bicentenaire de la naissance de George Sand, il est intéressant de rechercher et d’analyser quels sont les rapports entre les idées de la romancière en matière religieuse et sa volonté d’émancipation, et de justice sociale. Attirée par le socialisme chrétien de Lamennais, et les idées de progrès de l’humanité de Pierre Leroux, elle crut trouver des précurseurs dans certains mouvements religieux hétérodoxes du Moyen Âge. Cependant, ces idées survécurent peu aux désillusions consécutives à la révolution de 1848.
« Raison esthétique » et herméneutique christologique chez Balthasar
Authors: Souletie Jean-Louis
Published: April 2015

Raison esthétique et raison herméneutique pourraient paraître opposées, redoublant la tension entre subjectivisation de la foi et objectivité de la Figure de la révélation. En mettant au centre de sa christologie la kénose du Christ, Balthasar invite à penser le rapport entre l’histoire et la foi sans séparer le contenu attesté et la forme qui l’atteste. La Figure du Christ n’apparaît plus alors comme la clé du déchiffrement de l’existence sur le modèle d’une explication existentiale, mais comme une herméneutique de la révélation comprise comme auto-expression de Dieu dans le Christ et dans son corps qu’est l’Église.
Science biologique et tradition chrétienne
Authors: Dijon Xavier
Published: April 2015

Partant du conflit qui a opposé trop souvent, au cours des deux derniers siècles, la science biologique, d’une part, la tradition chrétienne, d’autre part, l’auteur cherche une réconciliation des deux approches, en particulier dans les matières dites de bioéthique. Comment reconnaître la vie en sa singularité humaine ? Comment la respecter à partir d’une responsabilité d’Alliance ? Comment la donner dans un échange qui reste spirituel ? Appuyé sur l’Écriture sainte et l’enseignement de l’Église catholique, le discernement cherche, dans les questions vives d’aujourd’hui, l’alliance de la science et des vertus théologales.
Comment, pour un supérieur religieux, prendre soin de sa communauté ?
Authors: Struyf Dominique
Published: April 2015

Les groupes humains naissent, vivent et meurent. Ils peuvent devenir malades et guérir, comme les personnes. Une communauté religieuse est un groupe centré sur une ou plusieurs tâches qui ne suffisent cependant pas à préserver et à nourrir sa vie. Elle est en danger de mort si elle ne se préoccupe pas des besoins affectifs et psychiques de ses membres, qui s’expriment sous forme d’attentes ou de désirs relationnels. Comment un supérieur peut-il prendre en compte ces désirs, prévenir ou guérir des dysfonctionnements pathogènes ? Nous nous pencherons également sur la question du pouvoir, de l’autorité et des lois, car de la façon dont le pouvoir est exercé dépend souvent la santé du groupe.
ESS et ressources communes : vers la reconnaissance d’une diversité institutionnelle
Authors: Nyssens Marthe , Petrella Francesca
Published: April 2015

Cet article vise à faire dialoguer les analyses sur la production de biens et services quasi collectifs par des organisations de l’économie sociale et solidaire (ESS) avec les travaux d’Ostrom sur les ressources communes, à partir de trois entrées : l’analyse des régimes de propriété comme faisceau de droits, la nature collective des biens et services fournis et la production collective de normes. Nous identifions les convergences et les divergences entre ces approches suscitant des interpellations croisées.
Karl Polanyi et l’encastrement politique de l’économie : pour une analyse systémique des rapports changeants entre économie et société
Authors: Chochoy Nicolas
Published: April 2015

Cette contribution défend la thèse selon laquelle une interprétation fidèle de l’encastrement au sens de Karl Polanyi nécessite une analyse qui se positionne dans la relation existante entre l’économie et l’institution organisatrice du social. Cette proposition s’étaye sur une analyse systémique des rapports changeants entre économie et société qui éclaire le désencastrement comme processus d’extériorisation du Marché imaginaire autorégulateur. Face à ce processus, l’enjeu d’une économie solidaire nous semble être de créer les conditions d’une réelle auto-organisation démocratique.
Victim restitution in the kuwaiti legal system: a criminal or civil remedy? Comparative analysis
Authors: Al-Eifan Meshari , Alayash Mordhi
Published: April 2015

L’insatisfaction croissante de l’opinion publique a été à l’origine d’une vague d’innovations : on a ainsi appelé à l’introduction d’alternatives comme les peines déterminées, les centres de réinsertion sociale ou les programmes de placement à l’extérieur. Une injonction de réparation oblige le condamné à indemniser en nature ou par équivalent la victime en raison du préjudice subi du fait de l’infraction. Loin de constituer une nouvelle approche de la peine, la réparation a été historiquement utilisée comme un moyen de punir. Cependant, avec la concentration du pouvoir de punir dans les mains de l’Etat et l’émergence de la distinction entre sanction civile et sanction pénale, le droit de la victime à réparation a été graduellement incorporé en droit civil. Or, l’efficacité de la peine dans sa fonction de réhabilitation réside dans sa proportionnalité par rapport au préjudice subi par la victime. : en prononçant la réparation, le juge oblige l’auteur des faits à reconnaître concrètement le dommage qu’il a causé. De plus, la sanction-réparation présente une plus grande efficacité préventive que l’indemnisation civile car elle doit être exécutée personnellement par le condamné. Dans le respect des objectifs de prévention et de réinsertion, les procédures formelles doivent néanmoins mettre l’accent sur la nature punitive de cette mesure plutôt que sur l’indemnisation de la victime.
Prédicateur philosophe – Philosophe prédicateur
Authors: Imbach Ruedi
Published: April 2015

Cet article se propose d’analyser certains aspect de la réception du discours de Paul sur l’Aréopage ( Actes 17, 22-31). À la suite de ce “sermon”, on peut en effet poser le problème du rapport entre philosophie et prédication. Après une brève analyse du discours lui-même, l’article examine les interprétations de ce texte fondamental par Augustin, Thomas d’Aquin, Érasme, Cajetan et Calvin et conclut que le texte paulinien invite à s’interroger sur la possibilité d’une approche philosophique de la question de Dieu.
Observations sur la prédication d’Eckhart
Authors: Sturlese Loris
Published: April 2015

Les prédications eckhartiennes qui nous sont parvenues, sont au nombre d’environ 100 en latin, et de 120 en moyen haut allemand. La critique situe la plus grande partie de ces prédications allemandes dans la dernière décennie de la vie d’Eckhart. Mais son intérêt pour la prédication est présent dans son œuvre dès le début et accompagne toute sa carrière. En particulier, ce qui caractérise son travail homilétique par rapport aux maîtres en théologie, ses contemporains, semble bien être l’usage de la langue vulgaire et le soin particulier apporté à la mise en forme littéraire et à la publication de ces prédications. D’où la question posée : pourquoi cet intérêt pour l’usage de la langue vulgaire ? L’attention dans cette étude se concentre donc sur les prédications allemandes et à ce propos sont traités deux arguments qui paraissent particulièrement significatifs. Le premier se concentre sur la nécessité de leur recontextualisation liturgique. En effet, l’aspect liturgique a été complètement occulté dans l’édition critique et la littérature. Le second se manifeste par la nécessité d’explorer le caractère littéraire des prédications, qui ne sont pas de fait “reportées” par des auditeurs (-trices), mais ont été rédigées et publiées par les soins de l’auteur lui-même. Enfin il faut noter comme caractéristique de l’homilétique eckhartienne, le lien essentiel entre locutio emphatica et discours démonstratif (« natiurlîche rede ») : l’examen de quelques textes tirés de la Défense d’Eckhart (1326) tente d’éclairer ce concept.
Le sermon comme exercice de casuistique chez Jean Gerson
Authors: Grellard Christophe
Published: April 2015

Dans le cadre de la réflexion menée par Jean Gerson (1363-1429) sur l’activité pastorale, le sermon occupe une place fondamentale aux côtés de la confession, place dont témoigne la pratique de prédicateur par laquelle il s’est illustré. Le sermon est investi par Gerson d’un rôle séminal dans l’articulation entre l’orthodoxie et l’orthopraxie, puisque la parole du pasteur est à l’articulation de la généralité de la loi qu’il doit transmettre et de la singularité de l’action qu’il doit réguler. Ce problème du rapport entre le général et le particulier, chez Gerson, est résolu en grande partie, grâce à un détour par la casuistique, entendue comme méthode pour poser un cas et résoudre la question précise qu’il soulève. Par là, le sermon apparaît à bien des égards comme un appel à l’examen de conscience et une préparation à la confession, qui vient compléter à un niveau véritablement individuel, le travail de médiation entre la loi et le cas à l’œuvre dans la prédication. C’est cette mise en œuvre de cette proto-casuistique, illustrée par l’analyse du cycle de sermons français intitulés Poenitemini , qui permet de considérer la pratique du sermon comme une forme d’ ethica utens .