bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating the Technical Improvement of Energy Efficiency in the Automotive Industry—Stochastic and Deterministic Frontier Benchmarking Approaches
Authors: Oh Seog-Chan , Hildreth Alfred
Published: September 2014

The car manufacturing industry, one of the largest energy consuming industries, has been making a considerable effort to improve its energy intensity by implementing energy efficiency programs, in many cases supported by government research or financial programs. While many car manufacturers claim that they have made substantial progress in energy efficiency improvement over the past years through their energy efficiency programs, the objective measurement of energy efficiency improvement has not been studied due to the lack of suitable quantitative methods. This paper proposes stochastic and deterministic frontier benchmarking models such as the stochastic frontier analysis (SFA) model and the data envelopment analysis (DEA) model to measure the effectiveness of energy saving initiatives in terms of the technical improvement of energy efficiency for the automotive industry, particularly vehicle assembly plants. Illustrative examples of the application of the proposed models are presented and demonstrate the overall benchmarking process to determine best practice frontier lines and to measure technical improvement based on the magnitude of frontier line shifts over time. Log likelihood ratio and Spearman rank-order correlation coefficient tests are conducted to determine the significance of the SFA model and its consistency with the DEA model. ENERGY STAR® EPI (Energy Performance Index) are also calculated.
Methylphenidate Ameliorates Depressive Comorbidity in ADHD Children without any Modification on Differences in Serum Melatonin Concentration between ADHD Subtypes
Authors: Cubero-Millán Isabel , Molina-Carballo Antonio , Machado-Casas Irene , Fernández-López Luisa , Martínez-Serrano Sylvia , Tortosa-Pinto Pilar , Ruiz-López Aida , Luna-del-Castillo Juan-de-Dios , Uberos José , Muñoz-Hoyos Antonio
Published: September 2014

The vast majority of Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) patients have other associated pathologies, with depressive symptoms as one of the most prevalent. Among the mediators that may participate in ADHD, melatonin is thought to regulate circadian rhythms, neurological function and stress response. To determine (1) the serum baseline daily variations and nocturnal excretion of melatonin in ADHD subtypes and (2) the effect of chronic administration of methylphenidate, as well as the effects on symptomatology, 136 children with ADHD (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision: DSM-IV-TR criteria) were divided into subgroups using the “Children’s Depression Inventory” (CDI). Blood samples were drawn at 20:00 and 09:00 h, and urine was collected between 21:00 and 09:00 h, at inclusion and after 4.61 ± 2.29 months of treatment. Melatonin and its urine metabolite were measured by radioimmunoassay RIA. Factorial analysis was performed using STATA 12.0. Melatonin was higher predominantly in hyperactive-impulsive/conduct disordered children (PHI/CD) of the ADHD subtype, without the influence of comorbid depressive symptoms. Methylphenidate ameliorated this comorbidity without induction of any changes in the serum melatonin profile, but treatment with it was associated with a decrease in 6-s-melatonin excretion in both ADHD subtypes. Conclusions: In untreated children, partial homeostatic restoration of disrupted neuroendocrine equilibrium most likely led to an increased serum melatonin in PHI/CD children. A differential cerebral melatonin metabolization after methylphenidate may underlie some of the clinical benefit.
Iron, Oxidative Stress and Gestational Diabetes
Authors: Zhuang Taifeng , Han Huijun , Yang Zhenyu
Published: September 2014

Both iron deficiency and hyperglycemia are highly prevalent globally for pregnant women. Iron supplementation is recommended during pregnancy to control iron deficiency. The purposes of the review are to assess the oxidative effects of iron supplementation and the potential relationship between iron nutrition and gestational diabetes. High doses of iron (~relative to 60 mg or more daily for adult humans) can induce lipid peroxidation in vitro and in animal studies. Pharmaceutical doses of iron supplements (e.g., 10× RDA or more for oral supplements or direct iron supplementation via injection or addition to the cell culture medium) for a short or long duration will induce DNA damage. Higher heme-iron intake or iron status measured by various biomarkers, especially serum ferritin, might contribute to greater risk of gestational diabetes, which may be mediated by iron oxidative stress though lipid oxidation and/or DNA damage. However, information is lacking about the effect of low dose iron supplementation (≤60 mg daily) on lipid peroxidation, DNA damage and gestational diabetes. Randomized trials of low-dose iron supplementation (≤60 mg daily) for pregnant women are warranted to test the relationship between iron oxidative stress and insulin resistance/gestational diabetes, especially for iron-replete women.
Multi-frequency tapping-mode atomic force microscopy beyond three eigenmodes in ambient air
Authors: Solares Santiago D , An Sangmin , Long Christian J
Published: September 2014

We present an exploratory study of multimodal tapping-mode atomic force microscopy driving more than three cantilever eigenmodes. We present tetramodal (4-eigenmode) imaging experiments conducted on a thin polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) film and computational simulations of pentamodal (5-eigenmode) cantilever dynamics and spectroscopy, focusing on the case of large amplitude ratios between the fundamental eigenmode and the higher eigenmodes. We discuss the dynamic complexities of the tip response in time and frequency space, as well as the average amplitude and phase response. We also illustrate typical images and spectroscopy curves and provide a very brief description of the observed contrast. Overall, our findings are promising in that they help to open the door to increasing sophistication and greater versatility in multi-frequency AFM through the incorporation of a larger number of driven eigenmodes, and in highlighting specific future research opportunities.
THE ROLE OF TEXTURE INFORMATION AND DATA FUSION IN TOPOGRAPHIC OBJECTS EXTRACTION FROM SATELLITE DATA
Authors: Chaurasia Kuldeep , Garg Pradeep Kumar
Published: September 2014

The growing availability of the satellite data has augmented the need of information extraction that can be utilized in various application including topographic map updation, city planning, pattern recognition and machine vision etc. The accurate information extraction from satellite images involves the integration of additional measures such as texture, shape etc. In this paper, investigation on extraction of topographic objects from satellite images by incorporating the texture information and data fusion has been made. The applicability of various texture measures based on the gray level co-occurrence matrix along with the effect of varying pixel window is also discussed. The classification results indicate that homogeneity texture image generated using 3*3 window size is best suitable for topographic objects extraction. The best classification results with overall accuracy 85.0% and kappa coefficient 0.80 are obtained when classification is performed on fused image (Multispectral + PAN + Texture).
Géographie et imaginaires nationaux entre le XIX e et le XX e siècle : l'invention de l'Italie et la circulation des cultures géographiques
Authors: Ferretti Federico
Published: September 2014

Cet article aborde la construction de l’unité nationale telle que les géographes italiens l’ont envisagée à l’âge du Risorgimento , en analysant ce processus dans le contexte de la construction de représentations des identités et imaginaires des différentes nations, qui intéressa beaucoup les géographes européens entre le XIX e et le XX e siècle. En travaillant des sources primaires dans le cadre de la circulation internationale des connaissances et en abordant la question de la construction culturelle et épistémologique des objets de la géographie, cet article vise à contribuer à la recherche actuelle sur le nationalisme, les identités et les imaginaires nationaux du point de vue de la géographie culturelle et de l’histoire de la géographie. Développer des interrogations sur comment la géographie a construit l’Italie en tant qu’objet de connaissance, du point de vue à la fois du paysage, de la géographie physique et de l’image de la nation, révèle l’importance de cette discipline dans la construction de réalités sociales et culturelles. L’étude du rôle historique de la géographie dans la construction nationale nous parle non seulement des défis territoriaux du passé, mais aussi des défis présents et futurs.
Les quartiers artistiques : territoires en construction. Regards croisés sur Montreuil (Île-de-France) et Neukölln (Berlin)
Authors: Boichot Camille
Published: September 2014

Les quartiers artistiques sont des marqueurs de la spatialisation urbaine des activités artistiques et en particulier de leur concentration. Ils sont à l’heure actuelle porteurs d’enjeux de développement économique et d’attractivité urbaine, l’art constituant un élément phare d’économies accordant une place croissante à la production symbolique. Leur mise en évidence ne va pourtant pas de soi et mobiliser la notion de quartier artistique invite à questionner les processus qui conduisent à l’émergence d’une identité collective spatialisée construite autour de l’activité de création artistique. Cet article vise à comprendre les processus qui conduisent à la formation et à la pérennisation de quartiers de création à Paris et à Berlin, deux métropoles artistiques majeures. Il s’appuie sur la comparaison de Montreuil et de Neukölln, deux espaces péricentraux de ces métropoles où résident et travaillent de nombreux artistes. L’analyse des pratiques et des représentations spatiales liées à l’implantation locale des activités de création montre que la territorialisation dont résulte la reconnaissance d’un quartier artistique relève d’abord des pratiques spatiales des artistes, à travers la mise en visibilité de leur activité, à travers l’esthétisation de l’espace public ou à travers l’organisation collective autour de lieux de sociabilité ou de réseaux de promotion. La médiatisation habitante et les valorisations économiques et politiques dont la création artistique fait l’objet contribuent également de manière prépondérante à l’émergence et à la reconnaissance de l’identité collective du quartier artistique. Une pluralité d’acteurs participe ainsi à la territorialisation de la création, chacun étant porteur d’un élément explicatif de l’histoire, du sens et des recompositions du quartier artistique dans une métropole européenne telle que Paris ou Berlin.
Des modifications de la loi belge du 28 mai 2002 relative à l'euthanasie...
Authors: Jacquemin Dominique
Published: September 2014

En Belgique comme en France il semble que la loi sur l’euthanasie ne soit plus satisfaisante. L’extension de la loi aux mineurs et aux personnes atteintes d’une affection cérébrale incurable à un stade avancé est sur le point de se faire. Il est nécessaire dans l’actuel contexte libéral d’examiner à nouveau plusieurs points : les types d’angoisse qui peuvent motiver une demande d’euthanasie, les notions de délai, de déclaration anticipée, d’inconscience irréversible, et les aspects financiers. Pour les mineurs, après avoir décrit le contenu de la proposition de loi, un recul critique s’avère indispensable, ne serait-ce que la capacité de discernement du mineur. Derrière ces nouvelles propositions de la loi se cachent de redoutables questions : quel statut pour la fragilité humaine ? Jusqu’où aller au nom de l’autonomie ? La médecine doit-t-elle répondre à tout ? Ou plutôt se comprendre comme médecine pascale ?
Temporalité de la reconnaissance
Authors: Causse Guilhem
Published: September 2014

Tenter de définir ce qu’est la reconnaissance pour Paul Ricœur est de l’ordre de la gageure. En effet, comme Jean Greisch l’écrit dans la préface au premier volume de la Philosophie de la volonté , cette œuvre « peut être lue, du début à la fin, comme un vaste “parcours de la reconnaissance” ». Une première manière d’aborder la question vient au début de son œuvre, dans « L’image de Dieu et l’épopée humaine » et revient comme en écho dans le Parcours de la reconnaissance . Elle consiste en l’analyse des sphères de reconnaissance, dans l’attention à leur distinction. Une autre manière est exposée dans Temps et récit , examinant la temporalité de l’expérience. C’est cette exposition que nous suivrons. Le point de vue temporel a l’intérêt d’être transversal par rapport à l’abord structurel, et si celui-ci décline la diversité des sphères, celui-là soulignera l’unité de l’expérience. Cette unité se déploie selon trois temps qui vont former ensemble la temporalité de la reconnaissance : le temps de la vision où le passé est rassemblé sous la métaphore de l’éternité, celui de la visitation où le présent se fait voix, échange de paroles, et celui du suspens où l’avenir se propose comme monde possible d’une action commune et durable. Ce troisième temps nous permettra de revenir à la triple sphère du valoir, du pouvoir et de l’avoir, afin de montrer comment ces sphères tour à tour sont traversées. En retour se posera la question d’un temps et d’un lieu privilégiés de reconnaissance, à l’entrecroisement de l’expérience personnelle et commune, point source d’où elle jaillit chaque fois à nouveau.
Le culte protestant : une école de la reconnaissance
Authors: Picon Raphaël
Published: September 2014

La reconnaissance est le grand sujet du culte protestant. De sa première action : l’accueil et la formation de la communauté à travers la proclamation d’une grâce inconditionnelle, à son dernier geste : l’envoi au monde d’une communauté réaffirmée dans toutes ses capacités d’action et de pensée, le culte se déroule comme un récit spécifique. À travers ce processus, le participant se découvre transformé de manière créatrice par la reconnaissance de Dieu dont il est l’objet, au point d’être rendu capable d’une gratitude radicale et totalement désintéressée.
The Music That is Here to Stay
Authors: Macías Atzimba Baltazar
Published: September 2014

The chapter aims at understanding a recent phenomenon in Mexican politics: the use of Internet and social media as a new and powerful resource for mobilization and social participation in the policy process. Based on a review of two recent movements in Mexico (#YoSoy132 and The Wirikuta Defense Front), the chapter argues that although the Internet is still restricted to the middle and upper classes, the use of social media and its impact transcends class boundaries, draws public attention, creates a valuable social capital for mobilization, and influences the decision-making process. The chapter does not intend to provide evidence to the theoretical discussion on why and how social media enhances political participation and mobilization; rather, it reflects the features shared by these two movements in order to draw some lines for further research. It finds that, if used appropriately, social media is actually an effective tool to facilitate mobilization and modify the public agenda.
Listening to the City
Authors: Linden Jon
Published: September 2014

On September 11, 2001, the United States of America incurred one of the most devastating acts of terrorism in its 200+ year existence. For approximately a week, the entire country was in shock. For those who lived in and around Manhattan or were otherwise there that week, the experience was unprecedented. During that week, people in Manhattan experienced a city that was numb with awe. As the cleanup of the World Trade Center site in downtown Manhattan in the financial section went forward, the planning had already begun with respect to rebuilding the site and its immediate environs. This chapter is the explanation and elucidation of not just the resulting reconstruction but also the innovative process by which a diverse group of stakeholders and the government designed the rebuilding. This chapter describes a sociological experiment. The questions asked during this experiment are very specific: 1) Can a small percentage of interested parties truly represent the opinions of the majority of between 30 million and 300 million people? and 2) Can a group of people without huge access to capital or significant political power truly influence the end results of such a tremendously large project with worldwide interest?
Information Technology and the Law
Authors: Mammoun Samreth
Published: September 2014

In today's globalized society, it is impossible for any country to be isolated and remain disconnected from the information chain. The purpose of this chapter is to highlight the growth of information technology and related laws in Cambodia. Additionally, this chapter gives readers an overview of laws related to information technology, explores how information technologies are transforming Cambodian society, and how the Cambodia government interacts with these technologies. This chapter recommends two main actions that Cambodia can implement to enhance freedom of information: honor the guarantee of freedom of expression by ensuring that Internet filters are not introduced and censorship of critical Websites is not allowed and create a clear legal framework that protects and promotes freedom of expression on the Internet. Limitations on Internet content should only be introduced in accordance with international human rights standards.
Electronic Voting System
Authors: Gangabaatar Dashbalbar
Published: September 2014

Mongolia introduced a new electronic voting system for the first time for the 2012 parliamentary election. E-voting empowers citizens by making voting simpler and providing better opportunities for certain groups of citizens to participate in the election process. The electoral reform was one of the major steps the parliament carried out in order to restore public trust lost in the violent protests against the 2008 parliamentary election results. A free, transparent, and fair electoral system was important to correct the fraud in the old election system. This chapter examines the effectiveness of the mixed system of election, the electronic voting system, and other changes to the electoral system in Mongolia.
Delivering Equitable and Quality Education to Remote Kenya Using ICT
Authors: Awuor Fredrick Mzee , Khisa Jared Wanyonyi , Rambi Dorothy Apondi
Published: September 2014

Education has been pointed out as the single most fundamental pillar in driving development. However, this may not be possible unless if quality and equitable education are not offered. Quality education must be able to meet the diverse needs of learners, such as cultural way of life (for instance, pastoralist and nomadic), poverty levels, and others. How would a poor child living in the remote Kenya whose parents survive entirely on pastoralism be able to get an equitable and quality education similar to a student in a boarding school in the city? This chapter illustrates the need for ICT adoption to bridge the education gap in rural and urban settings. Specific focus is on bridging the digital divide, developing digital content, and adopting cloud computing.
E-Governance and Natural Hazards in Mozambique
Authors: Mondlane Avelino , Hasson Karin , Popov Oliver
Published: September 2014

Strategic planning is a decisive process toward sustainable development for any organization. Mozambique has developed many tools toward good governance, among which Poverty Alleviation Strategy Paper (PARPA) is an umbrella. PARPA includes different key decisive segments of society, particularly the Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) as the pool for development. This chapter investigates to what extent e-Governance, particularly the development of strategies based on ICTs, can contribute to minimize the impact of floods at local governments by addressing best practice and decision-making process. The authors address backcasting methodology as an approach to consider in a participatory strategic planning for long-term decision-making processes. They use Chókwe District as a showcase where e-governance has an impact in mitigating and preventing the impact of floods.
E-Government Implementation for Internal Efficiency
Authors: Matatu Sandra , Magoqwana Babalwa
Published: September 2014

This chapter describes worker experiences of control in the context of e-government implementation in the City of Cape Town, South Africa. E-government is part of the governmental modernization project to enhance service delivery channels while promoting internal organizational efficiency. Based on the literature on control and surveillance in the workplace, this chapter looks at how workers perceive the e-government and how it affects their labor process. The participants in the study seem to be unclear of the direction and impact of e-government in the City of Cape Town's service provision. The research suggests that e-government has opened new possibilities and challenges for control at the City as enhanced service delivery for citizens is pursued.
Nanomaterials, Novel Preparation Routes, and Characterizations
Authors: Wani Irshad A.
Published: September 2014

The important aspect of nanotechnology is the remarkable size dependant physico-chemical properties of nanomaterials that have led to the development of synthesis protocols for synthesizing nanomaterials over a range of sizes, shapes, and chemical compositions. This chapter describes the various aspects of nanotechnology: its dimensions and manipulation of matter with primary focus on inorganic materials. Detailed accounts of various methods lying within top-down and bottom-up synthesis approaches are discussed, like Chemical Vapour Condensation (CVC), arc discharge, hydrogen plasma-metal reaction, and laser pyrolysis in the vapour phase, microemulsion, hydrothermal, sol-gel, sonochemical taking place in the liquid phase, and ball milling carried out in the solid phase. The chapter also presents a brief account of the various characterization techniques used for the identification of the nanomaterials: X-ray diffraction, UV-visible spectroscopy, and electron microscopy (e.g. Transmission Electron Microscopy [TEM], Scanning Electron Microscopy [SEM], Atomic Force Microscopy [AFM]).
Nanosuspensions in Nanobiomedicine
Authors: Lakshmipathy Muthukrishnan , Nanda Anima
Published: September 2014

The tremendous success in developing new nanomaterials and fostering technological innovation arises from the focus on interdisciplinary research and collaboration between physical and medical scientists. The concept of nano-medicine is one of the most important and exciting ideas ever generated by the applications of nanoscience. One of the most challenging tasks in the pharmaceutical industry is the formulation of poorly soluble drugs. The implication of conventional techniques for improving the solubility has gained limited success. Nanoparticles facilitate formulation with improved solubility and efficacy mainly through nanosuspension approach. Techniques such as media milling, high-pressure homogenization, and use of microemulsion have been used for production of nanosuspensions for a novel delivery system. Moreover, they are manoeuvred to patient-acceptable dosage forms like tablets, capsules, and lyophilized powder products. Nanosuspension technology has also been studied for active and passive targeted drug delivery systems, which the chapter highlights on various formulational perspectives and applications as a biomedicine delivery system.
The Role of Total Quality Management Practices on Quality Performance
Authors: Kasemsap Kijpokin
Published: September 2014

This chapter introduces the role of Total Quality Management (TQM) practices, thus explaining the introduction of Quality Management (QM) systems, the significance of TQM, the concept of TQM practices, the utilization of QM practices, and the relationship between TQM practices and quality performance. In addition, 17 TQM practices associated with quality performance (i.e., top management commitment, customer focus, training and education, continuous improvement and innovation, supplier quality management, employee involvement, information and analysis, process management, quality systems, benchmarking, quality culture, Human Resource Management [HRM], strategic planning, employee encouragement, teamwork, communication, and product and service design) are explained. This chapter serves as a valuable guideline for both researchers and practitioners to review their TQM programs in order to improve quality performance. Understanding the role of TQM practices on quality performance will significantly enhance the organizational performance and achieve business goals in the global business environments.
The Use of Information Systems in a Modern Cytopathology Laboratory
Authors: Archondakis Stavros
Published: September 2014

Over the last decade, cytopathology laboratories wishing to achieve an automated and seamless workflow process, to diminish turnaround times, and to improve their diagnostic accuracy have successfully adopted information technologies and automation. New types of cameras and microscopes connected to computers made possible image capture and transmission (telecytology). New innovative information technologies, including e-health and telemedical applications, constitute a valuable tool for interlaboratory collaboration and quality improvement. New applications are expected to enhance the opportunities for improvement in the field of cytological data management and sharing. In this chapter, the authors emphasize quality management concepts applied to cytopathology laboratories and the application of innovative information technologies in a modern cytopathology laboratory wishing to establish an effective quality management system and meet all current requirements concerning all aspects of its routine workflow (personnel, premises, environmental conditions, equipment, information systems and materials, pre-examination processes, examination processes, and the post-examination phase).
Teaching and Learning in the Global Classroom
Authors: Palak Deniz , Yildiz Melda
Published: September 2014

This chapter provides both theoretical underpinnings and practical examples of designing and implementing the “thinking curriculum” for the “global classroom.” The authors argue that teaching and learning in the global classroom calls for (1) thinking about the curriculum at a deeper level toward (2) implementing collaborative learning projects that count for multicultural and multilingual online learning environments. They use the term “thinking curriculum” to capture the proposition that teaching and learning are always concept- and assessment-based. The authors discuss examples of two thinking tools, concept mapping and Vee diagramming, to illustrate how these tools can help teachers think and communicate about the whole curricular process in a scientific way. In the second part of the chapter, the authors offer examples of collaborative learning projects that were implemented in the global classroom. In summary, this chapter is a practical guide for teachers who wish to think about their curriculum in a scientific way and recognize the value of creating a global classroom for preparing students for their roles in the global economy.
Promoting Globalization
Authors: Brantley Helen , Henry Michael , Sabo Sarah , Young Natalie
Published: September 2014

The purpose of this chapter is to provide experiences of six effective teachers who engaged in a 21st century global phenomenal experience during a course on the “Inquiry Curriculum.” All six teachers are currently teaching in the Illinois school system as content teachers, coaches, or mentor induction coaches. The participants describe their lived phenomenal experience with selected students in their classes and the guidance of a 21st Century Global Curriculum. The findings underscore the challenges many 21st century teachers face and how those challenges affect instructional decisions in P-20 settings. Results also stress the importance of the institutional decisions of student and teachers valuing the mission, vision, and goals stances in 21st century teaching and learning.
Pathogenic IgG Antibodies against Desmoglein 3 in Pemphigus Vulgaris Are Regulated by HLA-DRB1*04:02–Restricted T Cells
Authors: Eming Rüdiger , Hennerici Tina , Bäcklund Johan , Feliciani Claudio , Visconti Kevin C. , Willenborg Sebastian , Wohde Jessica , Holmdahl Rikard , Sønderstrup Grete , Hertl Michael
Published: September 2014

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is considered as a model for an autoantibody-mediated organ-specific autoimmune disorder. IgG autoantibodies directed against the desmosomal cadherin desmoglein 3 (Dsg3), the major autoantigen in PV, cause loss of epidermal keratinocyte adhesion, resulting in blisters and erosions of the skin and mucous membranes. The association of human autoimmune diseases with distinct HLA alleles is a well-known phenomenon, such as the association with HLA-DRB1*04:02 in PV. However, direct evidence that HLA-DRB1*04:02–restricted autoreactive CD4+ T cells recognizing immunodominant epitopes of Dsg3 initiate the production of Dsg3-reactive IgG autoantibodies is still missing. In this study, we show in a humanized HLA-DRB1*04:02–transgenic mouse model that HLA-DRB1*04:02–restricted T cell recognition of human Dsg3 epitopes leads to the induction of pathogenic IgG Abs that induce loss of epidermal adhesion, a hallmark in the immune pathogenesis of PV. Activation of Dsg3-reactive CD4+ T cells by distinct human Dsg3 peptides that bind to HLA-DRβ1*04:02 is tightly regulated by the HLA-DRB1*04:02 allele and leads, via CD40-CD40L–dependent T cell–B cell interaction, to the production of IgG Abs that recognize both N- and COOH-terminal epitopes of the human Dsg3 ectodomain. These findings demonstrate key cellular and humoral immune events in the autoimmune cascade of PV in a humanized HLA-transgenic mouse model. We show that CD4+ T cells recognizing immunodominant Dsg3 epitopes in the context of the PV-associated HLA-DRB1*04:02 induce the secretion of Dsg3-specific IgG in vivo. Finally, these results identify Dsg3-reactive CD4+ T cells as potential therapeutic targets in the future.
In the aftermath of the German labor market reforms, is there a qualitative/quantitative trade-off?
Authors: Möller Joachim
Published: September 2014

This paper argues that the German labor market reforms implemented in 2003–2005 were successful, according to the main quantitative indicator of labor market conditions. Long-term unemployment decreased substantially in the years after the reform, and the trend of continuously increasing systemic unemployment was reversed. At the same time, the extreme shock to the GDP incurred by the world recession in 2008/2009 left only minor traces in the German labor market. Employment climbed to an all-time high, and several regions, especially Southern Germany, are close to full employment. One should also stress that youth unemployment in the country is among the lowest in Europe.

The evidence from several qualitative indicators of labor market conditions, however, is less clear. Since 2005, these different indicators tell both negative and positive stories. On the positive side, the German ‘job miracle’ could have played a role in this context. Even during the sharpest recession in the post-war period, employment was stable. My interpretation is that this ameliorated the perceived job stability for many workers. On the negative side, the wage growth for many groups of workers is unsatisfactory. Wage inequality has risen substantially. Today, the size of the low-pay sector in Germany is higher than that in almost all other European countries. I argue that the increase in wage dispersion has gone too far. It was not a necessary condition for the improvement of the employment rate but was instead an unintended by-product of the reforms. Therefore, this side effect can be corrected without jeopardizing the indisputable employment rate successes.
Aircraft validation of Aura Tropospheric Emission Spectrometer retrievals of HDO / H2O
Authors: Herman R. L. , Cherry J. E. , Young J. , Welker J. M. , Noone D. , Kulawik S. S. , Worden J.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. The EOS (Earth Observing System) Aura Tropospheric Emission Spectrometer (TES) retrieves the atmospheric HDO / H2O ratio in the mid-to-lower troposphere as well as the planetary boundary layer. TES observations of water vapor and the HDO isotopologue have been compared with nearly coincident in situ airborne measurements for direct validation of the TES products. The field measurements were made with a commercially available Picarro L1115-i isotopic water analyzer on aircraft over the Alaskan interior boreal forest during the three summers of 2011 to 2013. TES special observations were utilized in these comparisons. The TES averaging kernels and a priori constraints have been applied to the in situ data, using version 5 (V005) of the TES data. TES calculated errors are compared with the standard deviation (1σ) of scan-to-scan variability to check consistency with the TES observation error. Spatial and temporal variations are assessed from the in situ aircraft measurements. It is found that the standard deviation of scan-to-scan variability of TES δD is ±34.1‰ in the boundary layer and ± 26.5‰ in the free troposphere. This scan-to-scan variability is consistent with the TES estimated error (observation error) of 10–18‰ after accounting for the atmospheric variations along the TES track of ±16‰ in the boundary layer, increasing to ±30‰ in the free troposphere observed by the aircraft in situ measurements. We estimate that TES V005 δD is biased high by an amount that decreases with pressure: approximately +123‰ at 1000 hPa, +98‰ in the boundary layer and +37‰ in the free troposphere. The uncertainty in this bias estimate is ±20‰. A correction for this bias has been applied to the TES HDO Lite Product data set. After bias correction, we show that TES has accurate sensitivity to water vapor isotopologues in the boundary layer.
Coeficiente Phi(Lambda) y la fiabilidad de las decisiones sobre selección de personal
Authors: Gempp René
Published: September 2014

En el contexto de selección de personal es habitual que los tests psicológicos sean utilizados para hacer clasificaciones dicotómicas de personas. En esos casos, los coeficientes de fiabilidad convencionales, diseñados para estimar la fiabilidad de un puntaje, no resultan apropiados para estimar la precisión de la clasificación resultante. En este trabajo se presenta el coeficiente Phi(Lambda) desarrollado por Brennan y Kane (1977) en el marco de la Teoría de la Generalizabilidad (Brennan, 2001), para estimar la fiabilidad de un punto de corte. Además, se presenta un software gratuito desarrollado para facilitar la estimación del coeficiente y se demuestra su uso a través de un ejemplo empírico, con un test de selección de personal.
Estimación bayesiana de un modelo psicométrico multinivel con efectos aleatorios
Authors: Revuelta Javier , Ximénez Carmen
Published: September 2014

El presente estudio aborda la problemática del desarrollo de modelos psicométricos para diseños de investigación multinivel, que tienen como objetivo comparar el nivel medio de los sujetos procedentes de diferentes grupos organizados en niveles definidos de forma jerárquica. Se presenta un modelo psicométrico multinivel basado en la Teoría de Respuesta al Ítem (TRI) y un procedimiento para obtener estimaciones en modelos jerárquicos de TRI mediante métodos bayesianos. El modelo se refiere a datos dicotómicos y un rasgo latente de naturaleza unidimensional, y pone el énfasis en el aspecto jerárquico del análisis. Además de presentar formalmente el modelo, se ilustra su aplicación mediante un ejemplo que incluye datos empíricos referidos a un test de conocimiento matemático aplicado a 1000 estudiantes españoles, organizados en escuelas procedentes de tres regiones. Los resultados proporcionan información sobre cada estudiante, escuela y región. Adicionalmente, se incluye el código de sintaxis empleado para la estimación bayesiana a partir de los programas OpenBUGS y Stan, con el propósito de que el lector pueda adaptar la sintaxis empleada a su propio problema. Finalmente, se discuten las implicaciones del uso de este tipo de modelos multinivel y las posibles líneas de investigación futura.
Characterisation of fly ashes from 4th Thermal Power Station of Ulaanbaatar city and its applicability for a zeolite synthesis
Authors: Temuujin J , Minjigmaa A , Davaabal B , Ochirbat Z
Published: September 2014

Fly ash from 4th thermal power station of Ulaanbaatar city have been characterised by x-ray fluorescence (XRF), x-ray diffractometry (XRD), particle size analyzer, specific surface area measurement (BET) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) observation. It was found that fly ash from Baganuur coal contains over 15 wt.% of calcium oxide (CaO) and could be assigned as class C fly ash, according to the International classification. Specific surface area of this fly ash was 2.75 m2/g and mean particle diameter was 59.5 μm. Zeolitic compounds were synthesised by using mixture of this fly ash and a transition aluminium oxide under hydrothermal treatment at 100, 150 and 200°C temperatures for a different duration. Various zeolitic compounds including Na-faujasite and sodium aluminosilicate were synthesised as reaction products.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjc.v12i0.164 Mongolian Journal of Chemistry Vol.12 2011: 16-19
Phytochemical study on Berberis sibirica Pall.
Authors: Solongo A , Istatkova R , Philipov S , Javzan S , Selenge D
Published: September 2014

From the aerial parts (700g) of berberis sibirica pall. 6 isoquinoline alkaloids of protoberberine, protopine, benzophenantridine and proaporphine type were isolated. The known alkaloids (-)-tetrahydropseudocoptisine, pseudoprotopine, (+)-chelidonine and (+)-glaziovine are new for the family berberidaceae. from the aerial part ii (3.9 kg) 14 isoquinoline alkaloids of aporphine, proaporphine, protoberberine, protopine, benzylisoquinoline, bisbenzylisoquinoline,proaporphine-benzylisoquinoline and simple isoquinolin type were isolated and identified. The aporphine alkaloid 1-o-methylisotebaidine and simple isoquinoline dehydrocorypalline have been found for the first time in the family of berberidaceae. From the roots of b. sibirica 10 isoquinoline alkaloids of protoberberine, benzylisoquinoline, bisbenzylisoquinoline, aporphine-benzylisoquinoline and proaporphine-benzylisoquinoline type were isolated. 1,10-di-omethylpakistanine has been reported for the first time as a natural alkaloid. The known alkaloids (-) -isothalidezine and (+)-armepavine have been found for the first time in the family berberidaceae. All structures were determined by physical and spectral data.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjc.v12i0.185 Mongolian Journal of Chemistry Vol.12 2011: 117-122
Recent and future of cement and concrete industries- a root of our development
Authors: Erdenebat Ts , Otgonlham J , Oyunzul E , Sanjaasuren R
Published: September 2014

This paper considers that cement and concrete industry is contributing to our country development positively, and cement and concrete industry also can be reduced environmental pressure by;- Continuously reducing the CO2 emission from cement production by increased use of biofuels and alternative raw materials as well as introducing modified low energy clinker types and cement with reduced clinker content or geopolymer cement and a new type concrete.- Exploiting the potential of waste bricks, cement and concrete recycling to decrease the emission of CO2.- Exploiting the thermal mass of concrete to create energy optimized solutions for heating and cooling residential and office buildings.
Fatty acid, Tocopherol and Sterol Composition in Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) of Mongolia
Authors: Otgonbayar Ch , Matthaus B , Odonmajig P
Published: September 2014

The content and composition of lipids isolated from seed and pulp of sea buckthorn were investigated. Fatty acids and sterols were analyzed by CGC while tocopherols were analyzed by HPLC. 12.67% glyceride was found in the seed. The oil of sea buckthorn seed oil showed low levels of saturated fatty acids in comparison with the buckthorn pulp oil. Palmitic (7.13%), oleic (15.85%), linoleic (36.9%) and linolenic acids (31.11%) predominated in the seed oil. Palmitic (29.17%), palmitoleic (32.86%), oleic (4.92%), vaccenic (9.35%) and linoleic (16.08%) fatty acid was dominating in the pulp oil. The primary tocopherol of sea buckthorn seed and pulp oil were α- tocopherol and γ-tocopherol (46.54mg/100g, 59.02mg/100g). Seed oil contains more (94.34mg/100g) total sterols than pulp (90.25mg/100g) oil.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjc.v12i0.187 Mongolian Journal of Chemistry Vol.12 2011: 126-130
The Quality and Safety of Imported Food: The Danger of Pesticides
Authors: Dugar Batgerel
Published: September 2014

The analysis of pesticide residue in imported food by thin layer chromatography is reported in this work. The pesticide residue was found in 34 samples of 11 kinds fresh harvested vegetables during fall of 2011.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjc.v12i0.188 Mongolian Journal of Chemistry Vol.12 2011: 131-135
Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy Study on Cation adsorption on Viscose Rayon Succinate
Authors: Khasbaatar D , Choi Ung Su
Published: September 2014

Ion-exchange materials have been considered as suitable material for the recovery of heavy metals in water. A viscose rayon succinate, synthesized from viscose rayon and succinic anhydride in presence of DMSO, to remove trace bivalent metal ions such as Ag+, Cu2+, Ni2+, Pb2+, Zn2+ and Cr3+, was studied using FT-IR for the behavior of metal adsorption. Both esterification and carboxyl bonding of viscose rayon succinate were assigned essentially at 1729 and 1693cm-1, respectively. And the essential band of bonding between metal and the material was determined at 1625cm-1. The available adsorption capacity of this fiber was 6.2 mequiv/g. The adsorption of metal ions on the viscose rayon succinate follows the order of Cu2+>Cr3+>Ni2+>Pb2+>Zn2+>Ag+ with maximum adsorptions capacities 4.2, 1.42, 0.91, 0.83, 0.69 and 0.35 mmol/g, respectively.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjc.v12i0.189 Mongolian Journal of Chemistry Vol.12 2011: 136-141
Flowering of siberian peashrub (Caragana arborescens Lam.) and its forage value to pollinating insects
Authors: Stawiarz Ernest , Wróblewska Anna
Published: September 2014

Under the conditions of Lublin (central-eastern Poland), observations were conducted on the flowering of Caragana arborescens shrubs for two growth seasons as well as nectar and pollen production by the flowers of this species was investigated.

The flowering period of Caragana arborescens began at the turn of April and May and lasted for 24 days, while for a single flower it was 6.30 ± 0.79 days. The average weight of nectar, sugars and pollen produced by 10 Siberian peashrub flowers was, respectively: 46.70 ± 8.39 mg, 22.79 ± 6.10 mg, and 4.45 ± 0.34 mg. The nectar sugar concentration amounted 49.60 ± 10.08%. Pollen grains reached average dimensions of 21.94 ± 0.76 µm x 21.52 ± 0.71 µm. During a growing season, one Caragana arborescens shrub can provide on average 101.8 g of nectar, 49.7 g of sugars, and 9.7 g of pollen.
The growth and flowering of Hyacinthus orientalis L. Forced in pots under fluorescent light of different colours
Authors: Śmigielska Małgorzata , Krzymińska Agnieszka , Jerzy Marek
Published: September 2014

Three hyacinth cultivars were forced under fluorescent lamps which emitted white, blue, green, yellow and red light. The plants started flowering in the first decade of February. The forcing period for two cultivars, ‘Anna Marie’ and ‘Blue Star’, was shortest under lamps emitting red light. The cultivar ‘White Pearl’ flowered equally early under lamps emitting red, white and blue light. The impact of light colour (wavelength) on the leaf greenness index (SPAD) was demonstrated. The photosynthetic activity of leaves was dependent on the cultivar. It was related both to the net rate of photosynthesis and the photosynthetic efficiency. Specific leaf area (SLA) also depended on the cultivar. The level of SLA was related to the rate of photosynthesis and its efficiency. SLA was highest in all cultivars under green and yellow colour light. The chlorophyll content in the fresh and dry weight of leaves was highest under yellow light lamps.
A distinct tethering step is vital for vacuole membrane fusion
Authors: Zick Michael , Wickner William T
Published: September 2014

Past experiments with reconstituted proteoliposomes, employing assays that infer membrane fusion from fluorescent lipid dequenching, have suggested that vacuolar SNAREs alone suffice to catalyze membrane fusion in vitro. While we could replicate these results, we detected very little fusion with the more rigorous assay of lumenal compartment mixing. Exploring the discrepancies between lipid-dequenching and content-mixing assays, we surprisingly found that the disposition of the fluorescent lipids with respect to SNAREs had a striking effect. Without other proteins, the association of SNAREs in trans causes lipid dequenching that cannot be ascribed to fusion or hemifusion. Tethering of the SNARE-bearing proteoliposomes was required for efficient lumenal compartment mixing. While the physiological HOPS tethering complex caused a few-fold increase of trans-SNARE association, the rate of content mixing increased more than 100-fold. Thus tethering has a role in promoting membrane fusion that extends beyond simply increasing the amount of total trans-SNARE complex.
Gamma delta T cells recognize haptens and mount a hapten-specific response
Authors: Zeng Xun , Meyer Christina , Huang Jun , Newell Evan W , Kidd Brian A , Wei Yu-Ling , Chien Yueh-hsiu
Published: September 2014

The ability to recognize small organic molecules and chemical modifications of host molecules is an essential capability of the adaptive immune system, which until now was thought to be mediated mainly by B cell antigen receptors. Here we report that small molecules, such as cyanine 3 (Cy3), a synthetic fluorescent molecule, and 4-hydroxy-3-nitrophenylacetyl (NP), one of the most noted haptens, are γδ T cell antigens, recognized directly by specific γδ TCRs. Immunization with Cy3 conjugates induces a rapid Cy3-specific γδ T cell IL-17 response. These results expand the role of small molecules and chemical modifications in immunity and underscore the role of γδ T cells as unique adaptive immune cells that couple B cell-like antigen recognition capability with T cell effector function.
The neural crest is a source of mesenchymal stem cells with specialized hematopoietic stem cell niche function
Authors: Isern Joan , García-García Andrés , Martín Ana M , Arranz Lorena , Martín-Pérez Daniel , Torroja Carlos , Sánchez-Cabo Fátima , Méndez-Ferrer Simón
Published: September 2014

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and osteolineage cells contribute to the hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) niche in the bone marrow of long bones. However, their developmental relationships remain unclear. In this study, we demonstrate that different MSC populations in the developing marrow of long bones have distinct functions. Proliferative mesoderm-derived nestin− MSCs participate in fetal skeletogenesis and lose MSC activity soon after birth. In contrast, quiescent neural crest-derived nestin+ cells preserve MSC activity, but do not generate fetal chondrocytes. Instead, they differentiate into HSC niche-forming MSCs, helping to establish the HSC niche by secreting Cxcl12. Perineural migration of these cells to the bone marrow requires the ErbB3 receptor. The neonatal Nestin-GFP+ Pdgfrα− cell population also contains Schwann cell precursors, but does not comprise mature Schwann cells. Thus, in the developing bone marrow HSC niche-forming MSCs share a common origin with sympathetic peripheral neurons and glial cells, and ontogenically distinct MSCs have non-overlapping functions in endochondrogenesis and HSC niche formation.