bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pierre Bouguer et l'« affaire du jaugeage », 1721-1726
Authors: Fauque Danielle
Published: June 2010

Résumé Pierre Bouguer (1698-1758), professeur royal d’hydrographie au Croisic, a 23 ans en 1721 quand on lui demande de procéder à des essais de jaugeage des navires selon de nouvelles méthodes proposées par Pierre Varignon et Jean-Jacques Dortous de Mairan, de l’Académie royale des sciences, à la demande du Conseil de marine. Le résultat donne l’avantage à la méthode de Mairan. Ce dernier rédige alors les instructions qui devront dorénavant être appliquées. Ce texte est lu le 30 août 1724 à l’Académie, avant d’être envoyé dans les ports en 1726. La contribution de Bouguer y est notifiée. À côté du procédé de division géométrique du volume recherché en petits éléments prismatiques, il aura utilisé une nouvelle méthode de calcul, encore peu répandue, celle des infiniment petits pour comparer les deux méthodes. Cette étude montre le rôle d’expert rempli par l’Académie des sciences pour l’État, sous la Régence et au début du règne de Louis XV, mission qu’elle délègue sous son contrôle à des hommes du roi compétents. Elle montre aussi que le Traité du navire (1746), œuvre majeure de Bouguer, était déjà en germe dès les années 1720.
De la méthode d'observer exactement sur mer la hauteur des astres
Authors: Mayrargue Arnaud
Published: June 2010

Résumé L’utilisation par Pierre Bouguer de l’analyse mathématique, que révèle l’étude critique de ce Mémoire , constitue une inflexion dans les modes d’explication du phénomène de réfraction astronomique qu’il étudie ici. On montrera l’influence des contextes scientifique et politique dans l’utilisation de la méthode analytique, et l’importance de ce traitement mathématique du point de vue des résultats obtenus, puisqu’il a permis de proposer des expressions théoriques de la réfraction astronomique, et de donner les tables de réfraction qui en découlent. On mettra ensuite en perspective les résultats obtenus par Bouguer.
Pierre Bouguer, commissaire pour la marine et expert pour les longitudes : Un opposant au développement de l'horlogerie de marine au xviiie siècle ?
Authors: Boistel Guy
Published: June 2010

Résumé Dès 1745, Pierre Bouguer, ancien professeur d’hydrographie au Croisic puis au Havre, est sollicité par l’Académie des sciences et par les ministres de la Marine successifs, Maurepas et Rouillé, pour examiner un certain nombre de mémoires et projets sur la découverte du secret des longitudes, déposés devant les autorités. De retour du Pérou depuis 1744, après une expédition académique en Équateur qui lui avait fait perdre dix années de recherches personnelles, Bouguer avait œuvré pour remplacer Pierre-Louis Moreau de Maupertuis, parti pour Berlin, au poste de « préposé au perfectionnement de la marine ». En 1749, Rouillé lui attribue pour ce poste la pension de 3 000 livres qui avait été créée spécialement pour Maupertuis, par Maurepas, à l’automne 1739. Bouguer s’acquittera scrupuleusement de sa tâche jusqu’à son décès en 1758. L’examen du style, des idées et des contradictions de Bouguer conduit à dégager un leitmotiv dans ses rapports : puisqu’on ne dispose pas d’horloges au fonctionnement régulier permettant la détermination des longitudes en mer, de tels projets sont voués à l’échec et ne méritent pas d’être encouragés. Ainsi, l’expertise pratiquée par Bouguer semble-t-elle agir comme un obstacle au développement de l’horlogerie de marine en France dans les années 1750. Cette position dure aurait-elle été responsable du retard pris par les horlogers français sur leurs homologues britanniques dans cette période cruciale de la quête des longitudes en mer ? C’est ce que cet article se propose d’examiner.
Un successeur de Bouguer : Étienne Bézout (1730-1783), commissaire et expert pour la marine
Authors: Alfonsi Liliane
Published: June 2010

Résumé Entré à l’Académie royale des sciences dès 1758, Étienne Bézout compte, parmi ses tâches, l’obligation d’étudier différents ouvrages et outils présentés à l’Académie. Si dès le début il se voit confier l’étude d’instruments relatifs à la navigation, cela s’amplifiera à partir de 1764, date à laquelle le duc de Choiseul, ministre de la Marine, charge Bézout de réorganiser la formation des officiers de ce corps. Ses visites dans les ports pour faire passer les examens de la Marine l’amènent à appréhender concrètement les problèmes de la navigation. Cela lui vaudra d’être désigné pour juger la validité des critiques énoncées par l’hydrographe Étienne-Nicolas Blondeau à l’encontre du traité de pilotage de Pierre Bouguer. Par ailleurs, cette situation vaut à Bézout de devenir membre de l’Académie de marine de Brest et d’être un des responsables de son association avec l’Académie des sciences. Nous étudierons ces divers points. Enfin, Bézout écrit en 1769 un Traité de navigation que nous pourrons comparer à l’ouvrage de Bouguer sur le même sujet.
L'européanisation des élections européennes ? Ce que nous apprennent les élections de juin 2009
Authors: Dupoirier Élisabeth
Published: June 2010

Résumé Que nous apprennent les élections de juin 2009 sur l’européanisation des élections européennes ? Incitent-elles à remettre en cause au moins partiellement la bonne fortune du modèle des élections de second ordre qui minore la dimension supranationale de ces élections et entretient le doute quant aux représentations politiques que ce font les citoyens de l’arène parlementaire européenne ?
Le Parlement européen : l'irrésistible mouvement de conquête des pouvoirs
Authors: Massart-Piérard Françoise
Published: June 2010

Résumé La construction de l’Europe est habitée par la permanence de paradoxes. S’agissant de son développement parlementaire, il en est un qui ne manque pas d’interpeller l’observateur : le Parlement européen ne cesse d’obtenir plus de pouvoir pour répondre au déficit démocratique de l’Union alors que les citoyens affichent une grande indifférence pour son élection. Le décalage entre le renforcement incessant du processus de légitimation formelle ou de droit conférée par les Traités au Parlement européen et la manière dont cette progression est saisie – au double sens de prendre et de comprendre – conduit à poser deux questions. Comment, pourquoi et grâce à qui cette montée en puissance ininterrompue du Parlement à l’intérieur du dispositif institutionnel de l’Union a-t-elle lieu ? À l’heure de la constitutionnalisation du processus de construction de l’Europe, qui ne s’opère pas sans heurt, jusqu’où le Parlement européen va-t-il dans son soutien ?
La nouvelle carte électorale du conservatisme européen
Authors: Alexandre-Collier Agnès , Jardin Xavier
Published: June 2010

Résumé Les élections européennes de juin 2009 ont vu la très nette victoire des partis de la droite modérée. Cette nouvelle « vague bleue » si elle affirme l’hégémonie des droites sur les gauches, redessine aussi la carte du conservatisme européen. Dans un contexte de crise sociale et économique, ces résultats posent question : pourquoi les défenseurs du libéralisme économique réussissent si bien partout en Europe au détriment des forces progressistes ? Quelle est la « formule gagnante » qui peut-être explique leurs succès ?
Un vote-sanction asymétrique
Authors: Franck Christian , Isnard Lisa
Published: June 2010

Résumé Contrairement aux européennes de 2004 qui avaient confirmé le vote-sanction des partis de gouvernement tant de droite que de gauche, le scrutin européen de juin 2009 fait apparaitre une différence de traitement réservée par l’électeur aux partis affiliés au groupe parlementaire PPE et à ceux dont les élus vont siéger au groupe S&D (l’Alliance Progressiste des Socialistes et Démocrates). Dans la majorité des cas nationaux, les formations affiliées au PPE l’emportent sur les formations de tendance socialiste. En revanche, les partis socialistes au pouvoir sont le plus souvent sanctionnés. Là où l’on observe une redistribution des voix au sein d’une coalition gouvernementale, la préférence de l’électeur pour le centre-droit est également confirmée.
Une vague Verte ?
Authors: Boy Daniel , Chiche Jean
Published: June 2010

Résumé Depuis leur première entrée au Parlement Européen il y a aujourd’hui 25 ans, les Verts ont connu en Europe à la fois aux élections nationales et aux élections européennes des succès fort variables. On a souvent remarqué que les partis Verts obtenaient leurs meilleurs résultats dans les pays aisés du nord tandis qu’au sud et à l’est ils avaient plus de difficultés à s’implanter. Les résultats des Verts dans l’Union Européenne obtenus lors du scrutin de juin 2009 permettent ils de confirmer ces tendances ? Peut-on dessiner, d’autre part, un profil socio démographique type de l’électeur Vert d’aujourd’hui au niveau Européen ?
Les élections européennes de juin 2009 en France : des élections de second ordre ou de reclassement ?
Authors: Perrineau Pascal
Published: June 2010

Résumé Les élections européennes qui se sont tenues le 7 juin 2009 en France s’inscrivent dans une forte tension entre « nationalisation » et « européanisation ». En dépit d’une campagne atone et de faible intensité qui a débouché sur une participation faible, elles ont réservé quelques surprises par rapport à la classique logique des « élections intermédiaires ». Le parti majoritaire, l’UMP, et ses alliés se sont plutôt bien comportés. Le PS, principal parti d’opposition, s’est effondré au profit d’une force écologiste de poids presque équivalent. Enfin, les protestations extrémistes ne sont pas sorties renforcées du vote européen.
Les élections européennes de juin 2009 en Espagne : première apparition d'un vote sanction
Authors: Marcet Joan
Published: June 2010

Résumé Le contexte des élections européennes de juin 2009 en Espagne a été marqué par l’installation progressive et profonde de la crise économique et une crise politique ouverte dès le début du second mandat du gouvernement socialiste de J. L. Rodríguez Zapatero en 2008. La campagne électorale de juin 2009 fut très polarisée sur l’affrontement entre les deux grands partis : PSOE et PP. Les résultats montrent un léger recul socialiste par rapport aux élections européennes de 2004, plus important dans les zones urbaines, profitant inégalement au PP selon les Communautés. Enfin pour la première fois s’est exprimé de façon claire dans des élections européennes un « vote sanction » contre le gouvernement, peu utilisé en Espagne jusqu’à présent.
L'intégration des partis politiques français dans le système partisan européen
Authors: de Boissieu Laurent
Published: June 2010

Résumé Un embryon de système de partis se développe à l’échelon européen au fur et à mesure du renforcement des pouvoirs du Parlement européen, seule assemblée supranationale au monde à être élue au suffrage universel direct. Se pose donc pour les partis nationaux la question de leur intégration au sein de ce système partisan transnational. D’autant plus qu’en l’absence de véritable campagne électorale européenne, les élections européennes se présentent toujours, depuis 1979, comme une somme d’élections nationales. Cette intégration, qui se traduit par une affiliation aux partis politiques européens et aux groupes correspondants du Parlement a été historiquement beaucoup plus complexe pour la droite que pour la gauche française.
Towards the Sixth Kondratieff Cycle of Nano Revolution
Authors: Wonglimpiyarat Jarunee
Published: June 2010

Nanotechnology is currently seen as a paradigm shift towards scientific revolution or ‘nano revolution. This chapter discusses the nano revolution within the global context. It is interesting to see that the governments around the world have formulated policies to manage the research and development (R&D) efforts and exploit the potential of nanotechnology to increase industry‘s ability in the global economy. The chapter analyses the successive waves of technological change based on Kuhn’s model of scientific change and Schumpeter’s model of Kondratieff cycles. As nanotechnology would have significant impacts on virtually every commercial sector, many countries commit to foster nanotechnology developments. This chapter will focus on nanotechnology framework policy recommendations. The policies and research activities of the most preeminent nations discussed in this chapter represent global research trend towards nano revolution in the next decades.
Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Organic Acids on Performance, Intestinal Histomorphology, and Serum Biochemistry of Broiler Chicken
Authors: Adil Sheikh , Banday Tufail , Bhat Gulam Ahmad , Mir Masood Saleem , Rehman Manzoor
Published: June 2010

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of dietary supplementation of organic acids on the performance, intestinal histomorphology, and blood biochemistry of broiler chicken. The birds in the control group were fed the basal diet whereas in other treatment groups basal diet was supplemented with 2% butyric acid , 3% butyric acid , 2% fumaric acid , 3% fumaric acid , 2% lactic acid , and 3% lactic acid . Broiler chicken fed diets supplemented with organic acids had significantly improved body weight gains and feed conversion ratio. No effect on cumulative feed consumption was observed. The addition of organic increased villus height in the small intestines but the differences were not significant in case of the ileum. Serum calcium and phosphorus concentrations were increased but no effect on the concentration of serum glucose and cholesterol, serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), and serum glutamic oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT) was observed. The results indicated that the organic acid supplementation, irrespective of type and level of acid used, had a beneficial effect on the performance of broiler chicken.
Possible Involvement of a Mitochondrial Translation Initiation Factor 3 Variant Causing Decreased mRNA Levels in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Anvret Anna , Ran Caroline , Westerlund Marie , Thelander Ann-Christin , Sydow Olof , Lind Charlotta , Håkansson Anna , Nissbrandt Hans , Galter Dagmar , Belin Andrea Carmine
Published: June 2010

Genes important for mitochondrial function have been implicated in Parkinson's disease (PD). Mitochondrial translation initiation factor 3 (MTIF3) is a nuclear encoded protein required for the initiation of complex formation on mitochondrial ribosomes. Dysfunction of MTIF3 may impair mitochondrial function and dopamine neurons appear to be particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress, which may relate to their degeneration in PD. An association was recently reported between the synonymous rs7669(C>T) in MTIF3 and PD in a German case-control material. We investigated rs7669 in a Swedish Parkinson case-control material. The study revealed no significant association of the individual genotypes or alleles with PD. When comparing the combined TT/CT-genotypes versus the CC-genotype, we observed a significant association (P=.0473) with PD. We also demonstrated that the TT-genotype causes a significant decrease in MTIF3 mRNA expression compared to the CC-genotype (P=.0163). Our findings support the hypothesis that MTIF3 may be involved in the etiology of PD.
Neuroinflammation, Microglia and Implications for Anti-Inflammatory Treatment in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Krause Daniela L. , Müller Norbert
Published: June 2010

Neuroinflammation has been implicated in the pathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) for decades. Still it has not been fully understood when and how inflammation arises in the course of AD. Whether inflammation is an underling cause or a resulting condition in AD remains unresolved. Mounting evidence indicates that microglial activation contributes to neuronal damage in neurodegenerative diseases. However, also beneficial aspects of microglial activation have been identified. The purpose of this review is to highlight new insights into the detrimental and beneficial role of neuroinflammation in AD. It is our intention to focus on newer controversies in the field of microglia activation. Precisely, we want to shed light on whether neuroinflammation is associated to brain tissue damage and functional impairment or is there also a damage limiting activity. In regard to this, we discuss the limitations and the advantages of anti-inflammatory treatment options and identify what future implications might result from this underling neuroinflammation for AD therapy.
Health care seeking and financial behaviours of the elderly during wartime in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Lutala M. Prosper , Kwalya Timothée M. , Kasagila Eric K. , Watongoka L. Hubert , Mupenda Bavon W.
Published: June 2010

Background: Health and social services utilisation is seen to be more closely related to age than to other socio-demographic characteristics. Many health problems are known to increase with age and this demographic trend may lead to an increase in the absolute number of health conditions in this population. However, questions are still emerging as to how the elderly seek care in response to their needs in the context of a war-torn region. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the behaviour of the elderly in seeking care during a time of conflict.Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in the health district Goma, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), using a multistage sampling of 500 senior citizens. Eight trained field-workers were deployed in the field where they administered a structured questionnaire.Results: The public health sector was well known and preferred by 186 participants (37.2%), but only used by 16 (3.2%) participants. Financial support received by the elderly came from their own relatives and fellow believers in 33.5% and 20.2% of cases, respectively. Almost 71% of monetary support is the result of begging and unknown sources – there is no government involvement whatsoever. Much of the external support that the elderly receive involves support in the form of food. Disease expenses remain a main concern of the elderly themselves.Conclusion: Government support for the elderly in the DRC is non-existent. There is an overuse of private sector and traditional medicine, despite the preference indicated for the public health sector. As a recommendation, a general increase in income-related activities could contribute to alleviating the health state of the elderly in a war situation. Further studies might explore in future the contribution of those results on the health of elders.
Sustainable poverty amelioration through early life education in a peri-urban community of Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Abosede Olayinka A. , Campbell Princess C. , Okechukwu Emmanuel I. , Salako-Akande Ajibike O. , Onyenwenyi Anthonia O.
Published: June 2010

Background: Daycare centres/nurseries have become popular because of the need for working mothers to leave young children with caregivers. However, the high poverty level (54% relative and 35% extreme poverty) makes it difficult for disadvantaged parents to pay the high fees charged by the centres. This study describes an attempt to economically empower mothers through the organisation of free early life education in a peri-urban community in Lagos.Objectives: The aim of the study was to examine early life education for under-fives as a means of economic empowerment of mothers and sustainable poverty amelioration. Method: The methodology included a non-randomised selection of 34 disadvantaged mothers by criteria, a prospective intervention utilising community resources to organise early childhood education, an in-depth interview of mothers, and observation of the outcomes over a 5-year period.Results: The result of the study showed that no mother preferred keeping a child older than three years at home. Access to early childhood education gave mothers opportunity to undergo vocational training (1, 2.8%) and take up new/additional jobs (12, 35.3%). All mothers and 32 (80%) of the participating families more than doubled their income, earning up to twenty thousand Naira (approximately $182) per month from the first year of participation. Finally, selection criteria and periodic assessment of immunisation/growth monitoring records of participants’ children improved compliance with primary health care service utilisation.Conclusion: Organisation of early childhood education had the potential for sustainable poverty amelioration through economic empowerment of mothers.
Routine interferon-neutralising antibody testing in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Foley P , Reilly P , Coulson A , O’Riordan JI
Published: June 2010

Multiple sclerosis is a leading cause of disability in young adults, with the Scottish population suffering the highest prevalence in Europe. Disease-modifying therapies, including beta-interferon (IFN-b), are increasingly used to minimise relapse frequency in the majority of patients who present with a relapsing-remitting disease pattern. Unfortunately, neutralising antibodies (NABs) may develop against IFN-b and are associated with reduced efficacy. These antibodies may be detected using a serum sample. Despite the importance of this problem, from both a patient’s perspective and a wider community and economic standpoint, there is no universally agreed protocol for the use of NAB testing. Authorities variously suggest routine ‘screening’ testing or, conversely, testing only in specific situations. In Scotland, routine testing is seldom used. We report our experience of routine NAB testing in 105 patients (of whom 35 were NAB-positive) over two years in NHS Tayside and comment on its cost and implications.
Radiation oncology: overview and recent advances
Authors: Dahele M , Senan S
Published: June 2010

Most patients with cancer will be looked after by a diverse team made up of members from community- and hospital-based services. This team will include radiation oncologists. Radiotherapy is an important part of radical or palliative management in about 50% of patients with cancer. In recent years the specialty of radiation oncology has seen rapid advances in physics and technology, several of which are now having an impact in the clinic where they are helping to realise newer and more effective treatment options. The purpose of this article is to highlight these advances for non-radiation oncologists, with examples of where and how they are changing treatment for patients. The necessity to evaluate and implement high-technology radiotherapy in a cost-efficient manner is discussed.
Trepanation and Roman medicine: a comparison of osteoarchaeological remains, material culture and written texts
Authors: Tullo E
Published: June 2010

Evidence for prehistoric trepanation is limited to preserved osteoarchaeological material, namely human skulls, and the occasional discovery of surgical instruments. However, the Roman empire gave rise to an abundant and diverse range of source types, including skeletal remains, material culture and detailed medical texts, each of which harbours the potential to contribute to our understanding of trepanation during this historical period. This paper highlights the advantages and inherent biases of each of these source types, and proposes that the simultaneous analysis and integration of different types of historical evidence is essential for the study of trepanation as a surgical procedure.
A brief history of malaria chemotherapy
Authors: Butler AR , Khan S , Ferguson E
Published: June 2010

Malaria is one of the worst sicknesses to affect humankind. For centuries there was no specific treatment, and it was not until the seventeenth century that Spanish colonisers brought back from Peru tree bark from which quinine was later extracted. In the twentieth century, synthetic alternatives to quinine were developed. Of these, chloroquine was the most successful, but by the 1970s widespread resistance had developed and the world was left without an effective treatment for malaria. During the same decade Chinese scientists extracted from sweet wormwood plant the drug artemisinin, which has proved to be very effective against chloroquine-resistant malarial parasites. The use of a combination therapy including artemisinin has made it possible to contemplate the eradication of malaria. Efforts to produce a stable and inexpensive supply of artemisinin are under way.
The Maclagan family: six generations of service
Authors: Doyle D
Published: June 2010

The Maclagans were a Scots family from humble origins who produced famous physicians and surgeons (two of them presidents of Royal Colleges), ministers of religion (including one archbishop and several missionaries), a director of the Victoria &Albert Museum, a famous anthropologist, many army officers, a leading Oxford historian, several town mayors and politicians. Their lasting legacies include many books, papers and reports, new university departments and degrees, a new and much-needed focus on public health and hygiene, the care of the mentally ill and the development of military medicine, as well as a heightened reputation for the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh and the Victoria &Albert Museum, all seemingly achieved without thought for personal aggrandisement. People who knew the Maclagans well characterised them by their energy, vision, graciousness, humour and commitment to serving others and their Christian faith.
Should practitioners promote physical activity as a treatment for depression?
Authors: Donaghy M , Taylor AH
Published: June 2010

For many years, experts have been debating the pros and cons of exercise for depression. Proponents of exercise for depression point to those clinical trials which have shown that exercise improves mood, while sceptics point out the methodological problems in many of the apparently positive trials, and the uncertainties around the acceptability of exercise as a treatment for depression. Here two experts critically review the evidence around exercise for depression, provide arguments for and against the promotion of physical activity as a treatment for depression, explore issues around the generalisability of exercise as a treatment for depression and look to the future by discussing ongoing trials that will provide more evidence to inform this important debate.
Simulation of mode conversion process from upper-hybrid waves to LO-mode waves in the vicinity of the plasmapause
Authors: Kalaee M. J. , Katoh Y. , Kumamoto A. , Ono T. , Nishimura Y.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. In order to clarify the role of the mode conversion process in the generation mechanism of LO-mode waves in the equatorial region of the plasmasphere, we have investigated the linear mode conversion process among upper-hybrid-resonance (UHR)-mode, Z-mode and LO-mode waves by a numerical simulation solving Maxwell's equations and the equation of motion of a cold electron fluid. The wave coupling process occurring in the cold magnetized plasma are examined in detail. In order to give a realistic initial plasma condition in the numerical experiments, we use initial parameters inferred from observation data obtained around the generation region of LO-mode waves obtained by the Akebono satellite. A density gradient is estimated from the observed UHR frequency, and wave normal angles are estimated from the dispersion relation of cold plasma by comparing observed wave electric fields. Then, we perform numerical experiments of mode conversion processes using the density gradient of background plasma and the wave normal angle of incident upper hybrid mode waves determined from the observation results. We found that the characteristics of reproduced LO-mode waves in each simulation run are consistent with observations.
Assessing the sources of uncertainty associated with the calculation of rainfall kinetic energy and the erosivity R factor. Application to the Upper Llobregat Basin, NE Spain
Authors: Catari G. , Latron J. , Gallart F.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. The sources of uncertainty associated with the calculation of rainfall kinetic energy and rainfall erosivity were investigated when the USLE R factor was operationally calculated for a mountainous river basin (504 km2) in the Southeastern Pyrenees. Rainfall kinetic energy was first obtained at the scale of the rainfall event by means of sub-hourly precipitation tipping-bucket rain gauge records and updates of the Kinnell (1981) equation. Annual erosivity values for the nearby pluviometric stations were then derived from the linear regressions between daily rainfall erosivity and daily precipitation, obtained for two different seasons. Finally, maps for rainfall erosivity estimates were obtained from the station values with Thiessen polygons. The sources of uncertainty analysed were i) the tipping-bucket instrumental errors, ii) the efficiency of the Kinnell (1981) equation, iii) the efficiency of the regressions between daily precipitation and kinetic energy, iv) the temporal variability of annual rainfall erosivity values, and the spatial variability of v) annual rainfall erosivity values and vi) long-term R factor values. The results showed that the uncertainty associated with the calculation of rainfall kinetic energy from rainfall intensity at the event and station scales is highly relevant and must be taken into account for experimental or modelling purposes; for longer temporal scales, the relevance of this source of uncertainty remains high if there is a low variability of the types of rain. Temporal variability of precipitation at wider spatial scales is the main source of uncertainty when rainfall erosivity is to be calculated on an annual basis, whereas the uncertainty associated with the long-term R factor is rather low and less important than the uncertainty associated with the other RUSLE factors when operationally used for long-term soil erosion modelling.
Importance of the variability of hydrographic preconditioning for deep convection in the Gulf of Lion, NW Mediterranean
Authors: Grignon L. , Smeed D. A. , Bryden H. L. , Schroeder K.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. We study the variability of hydrographic preconditioning defined as the heat and salt contents in the Ligurian Sea before convection. The stratification is found to reach a maximum in the intermediate layer in December, whose causes and consequences for the interannual variability of convection are investigated. Further study of the interannual variability and correlation tests between the properties of the deep water formed and the winter surface fluxes support the description of convection as a process that transfers the heat and salt contents from the top and intermediate layers to the deep layer. A proxy for the rate of transfer is given by the final convective mixed layer depth, that is shown to depend equally on the surface fluxes and on the preconditioning. In particular, it is found that deep convection in winter 2004–2005 would have happened even with normal winter conditions, due to low pre-winter stratification.
Measurement of pH
Authors: Wiley Emily A. , Chakravarti Deb N. , Slade Kristin M.
Published: June 2010

The measurement of pH is one of the most basic and necessary skills in a life science laboratory. The function and physical characteristics of biological molecules are highly sensitive to the pH of the environment. Common biological buffers must be prepared with the appropriate pH, usually close to neutral for most biological applications. This unit includes a discussion of the different pH instrumentation, notably pH electrodes. It also relates basic pH measurement theory to critical parameters for the technique, and covers the correct use, handling, and storage of pH instruments. Curr. Protoc. Essential Lab. Tech. 3:3.2.1‐3.2.16. © 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Approximate Dynamic Programming—II: Algorithms
Authors: Powell Warren B.
Published: June 2010

Approximate dynamic programming (ADP) is a powerful class of algorithmic strategies for solving stochastic optimization problems, where optimal decisions can be characterized using Bellman's optimality equation, but the characteristics of the problem make solving Bellman's equation computationally intractable. This brief article provides an introduction to the basic concepts of ADP, while building bridges between the different communities that have contributed to this field. We cover basic approximate value iteration (temporal difference learning), policy approximation, and a brief introduction to strategies for approximating value functions. We coverQ‐learning, and the use of the postdecision state for solving problems with vector‐valued decisions. The approximate linear programming method is introduced along with a discussion of step size selection issues. The presentation closes with a discussion of some practical issues that arise in the implementation of ADP techniques.
Common Failure Distributions
Authors: Upadhyay Satyanshu Kumar
Published: June 2010

Failure time or lifetime distributions are used to model the random variable representing the length of life of an item or organism under study, although it may not always be the length in strict sense. Numerous models have been proposed in the literature of failure time data analyses. However, since there are many physical or biological causes that individually or collectively become responsible for the failure of an item or an organism at any given instant, and since it is not generally possible to isolate these causes, the choice of a failure distribution is definitely an art. The present article briefly describes a few important models that are applicable in both engineering and biomedical sciences. Since the models are numerous and it requires several such pages to cover the details, attempt has been made to provide sufficient references for a supplemental reading.
Phase II trial of weekly bortezomib in combination with rituximab in untreated patients with Waldenström Macroglobulinemia
Authors: Ghobrial Irene M. , Xie Wanling , Padmanabhan Swaminathan , Badros Ashraf , Rourke Meghan , Leduc Renee , Chuma Stacey , Kunsman Janet , Warren Diane , Poon Tiffany , Harris Brianna , Sam Amy , Anderson Kenneth C. , Richardson Paul G. , Treon Steven P. , Weller Edie , Matous Jeffrey
Published: June 2010

This study aimed to determine the activity and safety of weekly bortezomib and rituximab in patients with untreated Waldenström Macroglobulinemia (WM). Patients with no prior therapy and symptomatic disease were eligible. Patients received bortezomib IV weekly at 1.6 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, 15, q 28 days × 6 cycles, and rituximab 375 mg/m2 weekly on cycles 1 and 4. Primary endpoint was the percent of patients with at least a minor response (MR). Twenty‐six patients were treated. At least MR was observed in 23/26 patients (88%) (95% CI: 70–98%) with 1 complete response (4%), 1 near‐complete response (4%), 15 partial remission (58%), and 6 MR (23%). Using IgM response evaluated by nephlometry, all 26 patients (100%) achieved at least MR or better. The median time to progression has not been reached, with an estimated 1‐year event free rate of 79% (95% CI: 53, 91%). Common grade 3 and 4 therapy related adverse events included reversible neutropenia in 12%, anemia in 8%, and thrombocytopenia in 8%. No grade 3 or 4 neuropathy occurred. The combination of weekly bortezomib and rituximab exhibited significant activity and minimal neurological toxicity in patients with untreated WM. Am. J. Hematol., 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The communicative content of the common marmoset phee call during antiphonal calling
Authors: Miller Cory T. , Mandel Katherine , Wang Xiaoqin
Published: June 2010

Vocalizations are a dominant means of communication for numerous species, including nonhuman primates. These acoustic signals are encoded with a rich array of information available to signal receivers that can be used to guide species‐typical behaviors. In this study, we examined the communicative content of common marmoset phee calls, the species‐typical long distance contact call, during antiphonal calling. This call type has a relatively stereotyped acoustic structure, consisting of a series of long tonal pulses. Analyses revealed that calls could be reliably classified based on the individual identity and social group of the caller. Our analyses did not, however, correctly classify phee calls recorded under different social contexts, although differences were evident along individual acoustic parameters. Further tests of antiphonal calling interactions showed that spontaneously produced phee calls differ from antiphonal phee calls in their peak and end frequency, which may be functionally significant. Overall, this study shows that the marmoset phee call has a rich communicative content encoded in its acoustic structure available to conspecifics during antiphonal calling exchanges. Am. J. Primatol. 72:974–980, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Twenty Hirsch index variants and other indicators giving more or less preference to highly cited papers
Authors: Schreiber M.
Published: June 2010

The Hirsch index or h‐index is widely used to quantify the impact of an individual's scientific research output, determining the highest number h of a scientist's papers that received at least h citations. Several variants of the index have been proposed in order to give more or less preference to highly cited papers. I analyse the citation records of 26 physicists discussing various suggestions, in particular A, e, f, g, h(2), hw, hT, ħ, m, π, R, s, t, w, and maxprod. The total number of all and of all cited publications as well as the highest and the average number of citations are also compared. Advantages and disadvantages of these indices and indicators are discussed. Correlation coefficients are determined quantifying which indices and indicators yield similar and which yield more deviating rankings of the 26 datasets. For 6 datasets the determination of the indices and indicators is visualized.
Enhancement of the tensile retraction properties of a styrenic block copolymer by melt blending with PA6
Authors: Ryan Donal , Farrell Joseph B.
Published: June 2010

Styrene–ethylene‐propylene–styrene triblock copolymer (SEPS), a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) was blended with polyamide‐6 (PA6) in an attempt to improve the retraction properties of the TPE. A maximum loading of 30 wt % of polyamide was incorporated into SEPS using twin‐screw compounding. Various reactive compatibilisers were also incorporated at a maximum loading of 10 wt %. The blends were evaluated in terms of their tensile, dynamic mechanical, and rheological behavior. Design of experiments (DOE) was used to study the effect of blending variables on the tensile properties of the blends. Complex interactions between these variables were identified using this approach. It was shown that by incorporating PA6 into SEPS, in conjunction with a compatibilizer, blends with superior retraction properties and increased tensile strength could be obtained. A mean hysteresis of 54.2 ± 0.7% was recorded for a blend containing 5 wt % PA6 and 4 wt % compatibilizer compared to 58.5 ± 0.5% for virgin SEPS. The tensile strength of this blend was almost 75% higher than virgin SEPS. Further evidence of the benefit of incorporating a reactive compatibilizer was the absence of a distinct polyamide relaxation in the dynamic mechanical thermograms for the compatibilized blends. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Oxidative coupling of 2,6‐dimethylphenol catalyzed by copper(II) complexes in aqueous solution
Authors: Liu Ying , Pang Qin‐Hui , Meng Xiang‐Guang , Liu Fu‐Rong , Li Jian‐Mei , Du Juan , Hu Chang‐Wei
Published: June 2010

The oxidative coupling reaction of 2,6‐dimethylphenol (DMP) with H2O2 catalyzed by four copper(II) complexes was investigated in Tris‐HNO3 buffer solution at 25°C. The kinetics of formation of diphenoquinone (DPQ, 4‐(3,5‐dimethyl‐4‐oxo‐2,5‐cyclohexadienylidene)‐2,6‐dimethyl‐2,5‐cyclohexadienone) from DMP was studied in detail. The kinetic parameters k2 and Km were obtained in the pH range of 6.0–9.0. The copper(II) complexes exhibited the optimal catalytic activity at around pH 7.0. The pH effect was reasonably explicated by the catalytic kinetic model suggested in this work. The catalytic mechanism was discussed. The deprotonized associated radical LCuI(OH−)‐•OOH was suggested as the possible predominant species to oxidize DMP. The CC and CO coupling products were analyzed and the ratio of poly (2,6‐dimethyl‐1,4‐phenylene ether) (PPE) to DPQ was also evaluated. Both in weak acidic (pH < 6.5) and in alkaline aqueous solution (pH > 8) were suitable to the CO coupling reaction in our catalytic systems. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Natural rubber with low heat generation achieved by the inclusion of boron carbide
Authors: Weng Gengsheng , Huang Guangsu , Qu Liangliang , Zhang Peng , Nie Yijing , Wu Jingrong
Published: June 2010

Natural rubber with low heat generation was prepared by the inclusion of boron carbide (B4C). Tensile testing, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic mechanical analysis, and thermal constant analysis were performed. The results show that a slight deterioration of tensile strength only occurred at a high volume content (>20 vol %). The thermal conductivity increased for the formation of well‐maintained B4C thermal conductive pathways. SEM images and theoretical analysis demonstrated that the specific area of B4C was small and the interfacial activity was low. Infrared thermal images taken by the infrared camera proved the low heat generation of the composites, which originated from the high thermal conductivity and the weak interface. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
An Effective Preparation of Sulfonyl‐ or Sulfinyl‐Substituted Fluorinated Alkenes and their Stereoselective Addition–Elimination Reactions with Organocuprates
Authors: Yamada Shigeyuki , Shimoji Kanoko , Takahashi Toshio , Konno Tsutomu , Ishihara Takashi
Published: June 2010

Treatment of trifluorovinyl‐ or pentafluoropropen‐1‐yl sulfone or sulfoxide, which are easily prepared from commercially available 1,2‐dibromofluoroalkanes, with various organocuprates affords substitution or β‐reduction products in good to excellent yields through an addition–elimination reaction sequence.
A Series of Novel Organically Templated Germanium Antimony Sulfides
Authors: Feng Mei‐Ling , Xiong Wei‐Wei , Ye Dong , Li Jian‐Rong , Huang Xiao‐Ying
Published: June 2010

A series of novel organically templated germanium antimony sulfides have been solvothermally synthesized and structurally, thermally, and optically characterized. The compound [Me2NH2]6[(Ge2Sb2S7)(Ge4S10)] (1) features two distinct tetranuclear [Ge2Sb2S7]2− and [Ge4S10]4− isolated clusters. The compound [(Me)2NH2][DabcoH]2[Ge2Sb3S10] (2) (Dabco=triethylenediamine) features a 1D‐[Ge2Sb3S10]n3n− ribbon constructed with two [GeSbS5]n3n− chains bridged by Sb3+ ion in ψ‐SbS4 configuration. Compounds [M(en)3][GeSb2S6] (M=Ni (3), Co (4) en=ethylenediamine) feature the unique 2D grid layer structures of [GeSb2S6]n2n−. The compound [(Me)2NH2]2[GeSb2S6] (5) previously reported by us features a 3D chiral microporous structure with the chiral channels. The optical absorption spectra indicate that all the compounds are wide bandgap semiconductors. Thermal stabilities of these compounds have been investigated by thermogravimetric analyses (TGA).
Maternal‐placental insulin‐like growth factor (IGF) signaling and its importance to normal embryo‐fetal development
Authors: Bowman Christopher J. , Streck Randal D. , Chapin Robert E.
Published: June 2010

As background for an antibody‐based therapeutic program against the IGF receptor, we undertook a review of available information on the early pregnancy‐specific regulation and localization of IGFs, IGF‐binding proteins (BPs), IGFBP‐specific proteases, and the type 1 IGF receptor relative to placental maintenance, function of placental nutrient transporters, placental cellular differentiation/turnover/apoptosis, and critical hormone signaling needed to maintain pregnancy. Possible adverse outcomes of altered IGF signaling include prenatal loss, fetal growth retardation, and maldevelopment are also discussed. It appears that the IGF axes in both the conceptus and mother are important for normal embryo‐fetal growth. Thus, all molecules (i.e., both small and large) that disrupt the IGF axis could be expected to have some degree of fetal consequences. Birth Defects Res (Part B) 89:339–349, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development in the cynomolgus macaque following administration of ustekinumab, a human anti‐il‐12/23p40 monoclonal antibody, during pregnancy and lactation
Authors: Martin Pauline L. , Sachs Clifford , Imai Noritaka , Tsusaki Hideshi , Oneda Satoru , Jiao Qun , Treacy George
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND: Ustekinumab is a human monoclonal antibody that binds to the p40 subunit of interleukin (IL) 12 and IL‐23 and inhibits their pharmacological activity. To evaluate potential effects of ustekinumab treatment during pregnancy, developmental studies were conducted in cynomolgus macaques. METHODS: Ustekinumab was tested in two embryo/fetal development (EFD) studies and in a combined EFD/pre and postnatal development (PPND) study. In the EFD studies, pregnant macaques (12/group) were dosed with saline or ustekinumab (9 mg/kg IV, 22.5 mg/kg SC, or 45 mg/kg IV or SC during the period of major organogenesis, gestation day [GD] 20–50). Fetuses were harvested on GD100–102 and examined for any effects on development. In the EFD/PPND study, pregnant macaques were injected with saline or ustekinumab (22.5 or 45 mg/kg SC) from GD20 through lactation day 33. Infants were examined from birth through 6 months of age for morphological and functional development. Potential effects on the immune system were evaluated by immunophenotyping of peripheral blood lymphocytes and immunohistopathology of lymphoid tissues in fetuses and infants and by T‐dependent antibody response (TDAR) to KLH and TTX and by DTH response in infants. Ustekinumab concentrations were measured in serum from dams, fetus, and infants and in breast milk. RESULTS: Ustekinumab treatment produced no maternal toxicity and no toxicity in the fetuses or infants, including no effects on the TDAR or DTH responses. Ustekinumab was present in serum from GD100 fetuses and was present in infant serum through day 120 post‐birth. Low levels of ustekinumab were present in breast milk. CONCLUSIONS: Exposure of macaque fetuses and infants to ustekinumab had no adverse effects on pre‐ and postnatal development. Birth Defects Res (Part B) 89:351–363, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Risk for radiation‐induced cataract for staff in interventional cardiology: Is there reason for concern?
Authors: Ciraj‐Bjelac Olivera , Rehani Madan M. , Sim Kui Hian , Liew Houng Bang , Vano Eliseo , Kleiman Norman J.
Published: June 2010

Objectives: To examine the prevalence of radiation‐associated lens opacities among interventional cardiologists and nurses and correlate with occupational radiation exposure. Background: Interventional cardiology personnel are exposed to relatively high levels of X‐rays and based on recent findings of radiation‐associated lens opacities in other cohorts, they may be at risk for cataract without use of ocular radiation protection. Methods: Eyes of interventional cardiologists, nurses, and age‐ and sex‐matched unexposed controls were screened by dilated slit lamp examination and posterior lens changes graded using a modified Merriam‐Focht technique. Individual cumulative lens X‐ray exposure was calculated from responses to a questionnaire and personal interview. Results: The prevalence of radiation‐associated posterior lens opacities was 52% (29/56, 95% CI: 35–73) for interventional cardiologists, 45% (5/11, 95% CI: 15–100) for nurses, and 9% (2/22, 95% CI: 1–33) for controls. Relative risks of lens opacity was 5.7 (95% CI: 1.5–22) for interventional cardiologists and 5.0 (95% CI: 1.2–21) for nurses. Estimated cumulative ocular doses ranged from 0.01 to 43 Gy with mean and median values of 3.4 and 1.0 Gy, respectively. A strong dose–response relationship was found between occupational exposure and the prevalence of radiation‐associated posterior lens changes. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate a dose dependent increased risk of posterior lens opacities for interventional cardiologists and nurses when radiation protection tools are not used. While study of a larger cohort is needed to confirm these findings, the results suggest ocular radio‐protection should be utilized. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.