bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Application of a New Grey Dynamic Hierarchy Analysis System (GDHAS) for Evaluating Urban Ecological Security
Authors: Shao Chaofeng , Tian Xiaogang , Guan Yang , Ju Meiting , Xie Qiang
Published: May 2013

Selecting indicators based on the characteristics and development trends of a given study area is essential for building a framework for assessing urban ecological security. However, few studies have focused on how to select the representative indicators systematically, and quantitative research is lacking. We developed an innovative quantitative modeling approach called the grey dynamic hierarchy analytic system (GDHAS) for both the procedures of indicator selection and quantitative assessment of urban ecological security. Next, a systematic methodology based on the GDHAS is developed to assess urban ecological security comprehensively and dynamically. This assessment includes indicator selection, driving force-pressure-state-impact-response (DPSIR) framework building, and quantitative evaluation. We applied this systematic methodology to assess the urban ecological security of Tianjin, which is a typical coastal super megalopolis and the industry base in China. This case study highlights the key features of our approach. First, 39 representative indicators are selected for the evaluation index system from 62 alternative ones available through the GDHAS. Second, the DPSIR framework is established based on the indicators selected, and the quantitative assessment of the eco-security of Tianjin is conducted. The results illustrate the following: urban ecological security of Tianjin in 2008 was in alert level but not very stable; the driving force and pressure subsystems were in good condition, but the eco-security levels of the remainder of the subsystems were relatively low; the pressure subsystem was the key to urban ecological security; and 10 indicators are defined as the key indicators for five subsystems. These results can be used as the basis for urban eco-environmental management.
GeoMemories—A Platform for Visualizing Historical, Environmental and Geospatial Changes in the Italian Landscape
Authors: Abrate Matteo , Bacciu Clara , Hast Anders , Marchetti Andrea , Minutoli Salvatore , Tesconi Maurizio
Published: May 2013

The GeoMemories project aims at publishing on the Web and digitally preserving historical aerial photographs that are currently stored in physical form within the archives of the Aerofototeca Nazionale in Rome. We describe a system, available at http://www.geomemories.org, that lets users visualize the evolution of the Italian landscape throughout the last century. The Web portal allows comparison of recent satellite imagery with several layers of historical maps, obtained from the aerial photos through a complex workflow that merges them together. We present several case studies carried out in collaboration with geologists, historians and archaeologists, that illustrate the great potential of our system in different research fields. Experiments and advances in image processing technologies are envisaged as a key factor in solving the inherent issue of vast amounts of manual work, from georeferencing to mosaicking to analysis.
Human Prostatic Acid Phosphatase: Structure, Function and Regulation
Authors: Muniyan Sakthivel , Chaturvedi Nagendra , Dwyer Jennifer , LaGrange Chad , Chaney William , Lin Ming-Fong
Published: May 2013

Human prostatic acid phosphatase (PAcP) is a 100 kDa glycoprotein composed of two subunits. Recent advances demonstrate that cellular PAcP (cPAcP) functions as a protein tyrosine phosphatase by dephosphorylating ErbB-2/Neu/HER-2 at the phosphotyrosine residues in prostate cancer (PCa) cells, which results in reduced tumorigenicity. Further, the interaction of cPAcP and ErbB-2 regulates androgen sensitivity of PCa cells. Knockdown of cPAcP expression allows androgen-sensitive PCa cells to develop the castration-resistant phenotype, where cells proliferate under an androgen-reduced condition. Thus, cPAcP has a significant influence on PCa cell growth. Interestingly, promoter analysis suggests that PAcP expression can be regulated by NF-κB, via a novel binding sequence in an androgen-independent manner. Further understanding of PAcP function and regulation of expression will have a significant impact on understanding PCa progression and therapy.
The Role of Sulfur Dioxide in the Regulation of Mitochondrion-Related Cardiomyocyte Apoptosis in Rats with Isopropylarterenol-Induced Myocardial Injury
Authors: Jin Hongfang , Liu Angie , Holmberg Lukas , Zhao Manman , Chen Siyao , Yang Jinyan , Sun Yan , Chen Shanshan , Tang Chaoshu , Du Junbao
Published: May 2013

The authors investigated the regulatory effects of sulfur dioxide (SO2) on myocardial injury induced by isopropylarterenol (ISO) hydrochloride and its mechanisms. Wistar rats were divided into four groups: control group, ISO group, ISO plus SO2 group, and SO2 only group. Cardiac function was measured and cardiomyocyte apoptosis was detected. Bcl-2, bax and cytochrome c (cytc) expressions, and caspase-9 and caspase-3 activities in the left ventricular tissues were examined in the rats. The opening status of myocardial mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP) and membrane potential were analyzed. The results showed that ISO-treated rats developed heart dysfunction and cardiac injury. Furthermore, cardiomyocyte apoptosis in the left ventricular tissues was augmented, left ventricular tissue bcl-2 expression was down-regulated, bax expression was up-regulated, mitochondrial membrane potential was significantly reduced, MPTP opened, cytc release from mitochondrion into cytoplasm was significantly increased, and both caspase-9 and caspase-3 activities were increased. Administration of an SO2 donor, however, markedly improved heart function and relieved myocardial injury of the ISO-treated rats; it lessened cardiomyocyte apoptosis, up-regulated myocardial bcl-2, down-regulated bax expression, stimulated mitochondrial membrane potential, closed MPTP, and reduced cytc release as well as caspase-9 and caspase-3 activities in the left ventricular tissue. Hence, SO2 attenuated myocardial injury in association with the inhibition of apoptosis in myocardial tissues, and the bcl-2/cytc/caspase-9/caspase-3 pathway was possibly involved in this process.
Inhibition of CCL2 Signaling in Combination with Docetaxel Treatment Has Profound Inhibitory Effects on Prostate Cancer Growth in Bone
Authors: Kirk Peter , Koreckij Theodore , Nguyen Holly , Brown Lisha , Snyder Linda , Vessella Robert , Corey Eva
Published: May 2013

The C-C chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) stimulates migration, proliferation, and invasion of prostate cancer (PCa) cells, and its signaling also plays a role in the activation of osteoclasts. Therefore targeting CCL2 signaling in regulation of tumor progression in bone metastases is an area of intense research. The objective of our study was to investigate the efficacy of CCL2 blockade by neutralizing antibodies to inhibit the growth of PCa in bone. We used a preclinical model of cancer growth in the bone in which PCa C4-2B cells were injected directly into murine tibiae. Animals were treated for ten weeks with neutralizing anti-CCL2 antibodies, docetaxel, or a combination of both, and then followed an additional nine weeks. CCL2 blockade inhibited the growth of PCa in bone, with even more pronounced inhibition in combination with docetaxel. CCL2 blockade also resulted in increases in bone mineral density. Furthermore, our results showed that the tumor inhibition lasted even after discontinuation of the treatment. Our data provide compelling evidence that CCL2 blockade slows PCa growth in bone, both alone and in combination with docetaxel. These results support the continued investigations of CCL2 blockade as a treatment for advanced metastatic PCa.
NS5ATP9 Contributes to Inhibition of Cell Proliferation by Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Nonstructural Protein 5A (NS5A) via MEK/Extracellular Signal Regulated Kinase (ERK) Pathway
Authors: Wang Qi , Wang Yongsheng , Li Yue , Gao Xuesong , Liu Shunai , Cheng Jun
Published: May 2013

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) nonstructural protein 5A (NS5A) is a remarkable protein as it clearly plays multiple roles in mediating viral replication, host-cell interactions and viral pathogenesis. However, on the impact of cell growth, there have been different study results. NS5ATP9, also known as KIAA0101, p15PAF, L5, and OEACT-1, was first identified as a proliferating cell nuclear antigen-binding protein. Earlier studies have shown that NS5ATP9 might play an important role in HCV infection. The aim of this study is to investigate the function of NS5ATP9 on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines proliferation under HCV NS5A expression. The results showed that overexpression of NS5ATP9 inhibited the proliferation of Bel7402 cells, whereas knockdown of NS5ATP9 by interfering RNA promoted the growth of HepG2 cells. Under HCV NS5A expression, RNA interference (RNAi) targeting of NS5ATP9 could reverse the inhibition of HepG2 cell proliferation, suggesting that NS5ATP9 might be an anti-proliferation gene that plays an important role in the suppression of cell growth mediated by HCV NS5A via MEK/ERK signaling pathway. These findings might provide new insights into HCV NS5A and NS5ATP9.
Effect of Plant Derived Antimicrobials on Salmonella Enteritidis Adhesion to and Invasion of Primary Chicken Oviduct Epithelial Cells in vitro and Virulence Gene Expression
Authors: Upadhyaya Indu , Upadhyay Abhinav , Kollanoor-Johny Anup , Darre Michael , Venkitanarayanan Kumar
Published: May 2013

Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) is a major foodborne pathogen in the United States and one of the most frequently reported Salmonella serotypes globally. Eggs are the most common food product associated with SE infections in humans. The pathogen colonizes the intestinal tract in layers, and migrates to reproductive organs systemically. Since adhesion to and invasion of chicken oviduct epithelial cells (COEC) is critical for SE colonization in reproductive tract, reducing these virulence factors could potentially decrease egg yolk contamination. This study investigated the efficacy of sub-inhibitory concentrations of three plant-derived antimicrobials (PDAs), namely carvacrol, thymol and eugenol in reducing SE adhesion to and invasion of COEC, and survival in chicken macrophages. In addition, the effect of PDAs on SE genes critical for oviduct colonization and macrophage survival was determined using real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). All PDAs significantly reduced SE adhesion to and invasion of COEC (p < 0.001). The PDAs, except thymol consistently decreased SE survival in macrophages (p < 0.001). RT-qPCR results revealed down-regulation in the expression of genes involved in SE colonization and macrophage survival (p < 0.001). The results indicate that PDAs could potentially be used to control SE colonization in chicken reproductive tract; however, in vivo studies validating these results are warranted.
New Advances in Urea Transporter UT-A1 Membrane Trafficking
Authors: Chen Guangping
Published: May 2013

The vasopressin-regulated urea transporter UT-A1, expressed in kidney inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) epithelial cells, plays a critical role in the urinary concentrating mechanisms. As a membrane protein, the function of UT-A1 transport activity relies on its presence in the plasma membrane. Therefore, UT-A1 successfully trafficking to the apical membrane of the polarized epithelial cells is crucial for the regulation of urea transport. This review summarizes the research progress of UT-A1 regulation over the past few years, specifically on the regulation of UT-A1 membrane trafficking by lipid rafts, N-linked glycosylation and a group of accessory proteins.
“Head-to-Side-Chain” Cyclodepsipeptides of Marine Origin
Authors: Pelay-Gimeno Marta , Tulla-Puche Judit , Albericio Fernando
Published: May 2013

Since the late 1980s, a large number of depsipeptides that contain a new topography, referred to as “head-to-side-chain” cyclodepsipeptides, have been isolated and characterized. These peptides present a unique structural arrangement that comprises a macrocyclic region closed through an ester bond between the C-terminus and a β-hydroxyl group, and terminated with a polyketide moiety or a more simple branched aliphatic acid. This structural pattern, the presence of unique and complex residues, and relevant bioactivity are the main features shared by all the members of this new class of depsipeptides, which are reviewed herein.
Dimeric Labdane Diterpenes: Synthesis and Antiproliferative Effects
Authors: Pertino Mariano , Theoduloz Cristina , Bastías Marco , Schmeda-Hirschmann Guillermo
Published: May 2013

Several diterpenes with the labdane skeleton show biological activity, including antiproliferative effects. Most of the research work on bioactive labdanes has been carried out on naturally occurring diterpenes and semisynthetic derivatives, but much less is known on the effects of diterpene dimers. The aim of the present work was to synthesize dimeric diterpenes from the labdane imbricatolic acid using esters, ethers and the triazole ring as linkers. Some 18 new derivatives were prepared and the compounds were evaluated for antiproliferative activity on human normal fibroblasts (MRC-5) and the following human tumor cell lines: AGS, SK-MES-1, J82 and HL-60. The diethers 8–10, differing in the number of CH2 units in the linker, presented better antiproliferative activity with a maximum effect for the derivative 9. The best antiproliferative effect against HL-60 cells was found for compounds 3 and 17, with IC50 values of 22.3 and 23.2 μM, lower than that found for the reference compound etoposide (2.23 μM). The compounds 9, 17 and 11 were the most active derivatives towards AGS cells with IC50 values of 17.8, 23.4 and 26.1 μM. A free carboxylic acid function seems relevant for the effect as several of the compounds showed less antiproliferative effect after methylation.
Selenium Metabolism in Cancer Cells: The Combined Application of XAS and XFM Techniques to the Problem of Selenium Speciation in Biological Systems
Authors: Weekley Claire , Aitken Jade , Finney Lydia , Vogt Stefan , Witting Paul , Harris Hugh
Published: May 2013

Determining the speciation of selenium in vivo is crucial to understanding the biological activity of this essential element, which is a popular dietary supplement due to its anti-cancer properties. Hyphenated techniques that combine separation and detection methods are traditionally and effectively used in selenium speciation analysis, but require extensive sample preparation that may affect speciation. Synchrotron-based X-ray absorption and fluorescence techniques offer an alternative approach to selenium speciation analysis that requires minimal sample preparation. We present a brief summary of some key HPLC-ICP-MS and ESI-MS/MS studies of the speciation of selenium in cells and rat tissues. We review the results of a top-down approach to selenium speciation in human lung cancer cells that aims to link the speciation and distribution of selenium to its biological activity using a combination of X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and X-ray fluorescence microscopy (XFM). The results of this approach highlight the distinct fates of selenomethionine, methylselenocysteine and selenite in terms of their speciation and distribution within cells: organic selenium metabolites were widely distributed throughout the cells, whereas inorganic selenium metabolites were compartmentalized and associated with copper. New data from the XFM mapping of electrophoretically-separated cell lysates show the distribution of selenium in the proteins of selenomethionine-treated cells. Future applications of this top-down approach are discussed.
Structural Diversity of Metallosupramolecular Assemblies Based on the Bent Bridging Ligand 4,4′-Dithiodipyridine
Authors: Seidel Rüdiger , Goddard Richard , Oppel Iris
Published: May 2013

4,4′-Dithiodipyridine (dtdp), also termed 4,4′-dipyridyldisulfide, is a bridging ligand of the 4,4′-bipyridine type. The introduction of the disulfide moiety inevitably leads to a relatively rigid angular structure, which exhibits axial chirality. More than 90 metal complexes containing the dtdp ligand have been crystallographically characterised until now. This review focuses on the preparation and structural diversity of discrete and polymeric metallosupramolecular assemblies constructed from dtdp as bridging ligands. These encompass metallamacrocycles with M2L2 topology and coordination polymers with periodicity in one or two dimensions. One-dimensional coordination polymers represent the vast majority of the metallosupramolecular structures obtained from dtdp. These include repeated rhomboids, zigzag, helical and arched chains among other types. In this contribution, we make an attempt to provide a comprehensive account of the structural data that are currently available for metallosupramolecular assemblies based on the bent bridging ligand dtdp.
Computationally Efficient Adaptive Type-2 Fuzzy Control of Flexible-Joint Manipulators
Authors: Chaoui Hicham , Gueaieb Wail , Biglarbegian Mohammad , Yagoub Mustapha
Published: May 2013

In this paper, we introduce an adaptive type-2 fuzzy logic controller (FLC) for flexible-joint manipulators with structured and unstructured dynamical uncertainties. Simplified interval fuzzy sets are used for real-time efficiency, and internal stability is enhanced by adopting a trade-off strategy between the manipulator’s and the actuators’ velocities. Furthermore, the control scheme is independent of the computationally expensive noisy torque and acceleration signals. The controller is validated through a set of numerical simulations and by comparing it against its type-1 counterpart. The ability of the adaptive type-2 FLC in coping with large magnitudes of uncertainties yields an improved performance. The stability of the proposed control system is guaranteed using Lyapunov stability theory.
Development of Amperometric Biosensors Based on Nanostructured Tyrosinase-Conducting Polymer Composite Electrodes
Authors: Lupu Stelian , Lete Cecilia , Balaure Paul , Caval Dan , Mihailciuc Constantin , Lakard Boris , Hihn Jean-Yves , Campo Francisco
Published: May 2013

Bio-composite coatings consisting of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and tyrosinase (Ty) were successfully electrodeposited on conventional size gold (Au) disk electrodes and microelectrode arrays using sinusoidal voltages. Electrochemical polymerization of the corresponding monomer was carried out in the presence of various Ty amounts in aqueous buffered solutions. The bio-composite coatings prepared using sinusoidal voltages and potentiostatic electrodeposition methods were compared in terms of morphology, electrochemical properties, and biocatalytic activity towards various analytes. The amperometric biosensors were tested in dopamine (DA) and catechol (CT) electroanalysis in aqueous buffered solutions. The analytical performance of the developed biosensors was investigated in terms of linear response range, detection limit, sensitivity, and repeatability. A semi-quantitative multi-analyte procedure for simultaneous determination of DA and CT was developed. The amperometric biosensor prepared using sinusoidal voltages showed much better analytical performance. The Au disk biosensor obtained by 50 mV alternating voltage amplitude displayed a linear response for DA concentrations ranging from 10 to 300 μM, with a detection limit of 4.18 μM.
A Fully Integrated Sensor SoC with Digital Calibration Hardware and Wireless Transceiver at 2.4 GHz
Authors: Kim Dong-Sun , Jang Sung-Joon , Hwang Tae-Ho
Published: May 2013

A single-chip sensor system-on-a-chip (SoC) that implements radio for 2.4 GHz, complete digital baseband physical layer (PHY), 10-bit sigma-delta analog-to-digital converter and dedicated sensor calibration hardware for industrial sensing systems has been proposed and integrated in a 0.18-μm CMOS technology. The transceiver’s building block includes a low-noise amplifier, mixer, channel filter, receiver signal-strength indicator, frequency synthesizer, voltage-controlled oscillator, and power amplifier. In addition, the digital building block consists of offset quadrature phase-shift keying (OQPSK) modulation, demodulation, carrier frequency offset compensation, auto-gain control, digital MAC function, sensor calibration hardware and embedded 8-bit microcontroller. The digital MAC function supports cyclic redundancy check (CRC), inter-symbol timing check, MAC frame control, and automatic retransmission. The embedded sensor signal processing block consists of calibration coefficient calculator, sensing data calibration mapper and sigma-delta analog-to-digital converter with digital decimation filter. The sensitivity of the overall receiver and the error vector magnitude (EVM) of the overall transmitter are −99 dBm and 18.14%, respectively. The proposed calibration scheme has a reduction of errors by about 45.4% compared with the improved progressive polynomial calibration (PPC) method and the maximum current consumption of the SoC is 16 mA.
Estimated Dietary Exposure to Mycotoxins after Taking into Account the Cooking of Staple Foods in Japan
Authors: Sakuma Hisako , Watanabe Yasushi , Furusawa Hiroko , Yoshinari Tomoya , Akashi Hajime , Kawakami Hiroshi , Saito Shiro , Sugita-Konishi Yoshiko
Published: May 2013

Mycotoxins are commonly present in cereal grains and are not completely destroyed during their cooking and processing. When mycotoxins contaminate staple foods, the risk for exposure becomes serious. In East Asia, including Japan, rice is consumed as a staple food, and with the increasingly Westernized lifestyle, the consumption of wheat has increased. The mycotoxins commonly associated with rice and wheat are total aflatoxin (AFL) and ochratoxin A (OTA), respectively. This study examined the retention of AFL and OTA during the cooking of rice and pasta. AFL was retained at 83%–89% the initial level after the cooking of steamed rice. In pasta noodles, more than 60% of the OTA was retained. These results show that AFL and OTA are relatively stable during the cooking process, suggesting that a major reduction in the exposure to these mycotoxins cannot be expected to occur by cooking rice and pasta. The estimated exposure assessment at the high consumer level (95th percentile) and the mycotoxin contamination level determined by taking into account these reductions in the present study should be useful for the establishment of practical regulations for mycotoxins in staple foods.
Derrière la compétition économique, la bataille des modèles pour la gouvernance mondiale
Authors: Revel Claude
Published: May 2013

En amont et à côté de la compétition économique internationale se joue depuis plusieurs années une bataille des modèles, d’où naîtront les premières formes d’une gouvernance mondiale. Nous parlons de modèles politico-économiques, qui véhiculent des modes d’organisation, des valeurs collectives et individuelles, des approches morales ou religieuses. Les acteurs économiques devraient s’intéresser à ces questions car elles ont déjà – et auront encore plus dans l’avenir – un impact sur leurs affaires.
La bataille de la compétitivité à la lumière du cas de l'industrie automobile
Authors: Pélata Patrick
Published: May 2013

Patrick Pélata montre ce qu’est la compétitivité et comment elle conditionne la croissance, les profits et la création d’emplois. Il faudrait agir de façon cohérente et dans la durée sur plusieurs leviers, en se défiant du populisme ambiant.
Réseaux et subventions : les pièges cachés des énergies intermittentes
Authors: Gay Aurélien , Glita Marc
Published: May 2013

Le développement des énergies alternatives intermittentes se heurte à des difficultés économiques et politiques souvent insoupçonnées. Après la crise de l’euro, l’Europe connaîtra-t-elle celle de l’électricité ?
MPO : s'appuyer sur ses savoir-faire pour apprendre un nouveau métier
Authors: Perrin Jean-François
Published: May 2013

MPO, leader européen des supports numériques audiovisuels, décide d’organiser sa mutation vers le photovoltaïque. Il a fallu fédérer des experts avec l’objectif de fabriquer les meilleures cellules photovoltaïques et de se positionner sur ce marché.
Une épistémologie à hauteur d'homme : l'anthropologie interprétative de Clifford Geertz et son apport potentiel à la recherche francophone en management
Authors: Leca Bernard , Plé Loïc
Published: May 2013

L’anthropologie culturelle de Clifford Geertz constitue l’un des fondements des approches interprétatives. Au sein de cet ensemble, elle se singularise toutefois par une radicalité caractérisée par sa modestie à l’égard de la connaissance produite, la nature de ses liens avec la méthodologie, et le statut accordé aux résultats de recherche. La première partie de cet article vise donc à présenter cette anthropologie et ses particularités. La seconde propose, à partir d’une analyse bibliométrique, de l’intégrer à d’autres approches, de manière à en dépasser les limites et à prendre appui sur ses forces pour enrichir la recherche francophone en management.
Profiter de l’innovation collaborative : alliances de R&D et mécanismes de protection des actifs technologiques
Authors: Mandard Matthieu
Published: May 2013

Depuis la fin des années 1970 et l’émergence d’un contexte d’innovation ouverte, les alliances de R&D sont devenues un impératif pour de nombreuses entreprises innovantes. Pourtant, elles présentent d’importants risques de détournement d’actifs technologiques, qui peuvent conduire les partenaires à ne pas profiter de la collaboration. Il s’agit ici de contribuer à une meilleure compréhension des stratégies de protection d’actifs, en proposant un cadre intégrateur recensant l’ensemble des mécanismes de protection des actifs technologiques à disposition des entreprises qui s’engagent dans une alliance de R&D. À partir de ce cadre, les principales relations de substitution et de complémentarité existant entre les différents mécanismes sont mises en évidence.
Les déterminants de l'acceptation de l'e-learning : étude empirique au sein de La Poste
Authors: Lassoued Tarek , Hofaidhllaoui Mahrane
Published: May 2013

La formation électronique présente des avantages aussi bien pour l’apprenant que pour l’organisation. L’objectif de cette recherche est de délimiter les déterminants de l’acceptation de la formation électronique chez les salariés. Les différents courants théoriques traitant le comportement des individus envers l’utilisation des innovations technologiques permettent d’appréhender les variables qui influencent l’adoption de la formation électronique. Le modèle choisi au niveau de cette étude est inspiré de la théorie unifiée de l’acceptation et de l’utilisation de la technologie de Venkatesh et Davis (2003). Ce modèle inclut des variables individuelles et organisationnelles. La validation empirique du modèle a été effectuée sur un échantillon de 392 employés de la poste tunisienne. L’analyse des résultats de la recherche a été réalisée à l’aide des analyses factorielles et des méthodes d’équations structurelles. Nos résultats montrent que l’adoption du e-learning au sein de la poste est influencée, en premier lieu, par l’image de soi, l’assistance technique et la perception de la facilité d’usage. Quant à l’implication de la direction générale et l’influence des collègues, ce sont les deux variables qui ont été plus significatives respectivement chez les non-inscrits et les inscrits.
Perception de l'apparence dans le monde du travail : le poids des préjugés. Enquête auprès de 909 postiers
Authors: Barth Isabelle , Ramboarison-Lalao Lovanirina
Published: May 2013

Cette étude exploratoire par questionnaire, à laquelle ont participé 909 postiers en Alsace, mobilise le modèle bidimensionnel du jugement social et l’approche par les scénarios pour étudier les préjugés et stéréotypes liés à l’apparence physique au travail. Les résultats mettent en avant la persistance des stéréotypes discriminatoires qui peuvent impacter négativement sur les rapports interpersonnels au travail. Il n’y a pas de différence statistiquement significative sexuée des préjugés.
Quels métiers pour la communication numérique des organisations touristiques ?
Authors: Alexandre-Bourhis Nathalie , Khalla Said , Rouvrais-Charron Chantal
Published: May 2013

Cette étude vise à dessiner les contours des métiers présents et futurs qui sont liés à la communication numérique. Après avoir décrit le contexte spécifique du secteur touristique, particulièrement touché par l’évolution des NTIC, l’article présente les résultats d’une étude qualitative réalisée auprès de trente et un professionnels du secteur (directeurs d’organisation touristique privée ou publique et chargés de communication). Quatre métiers majeurs émergent de l’analyse : community manager, chargé d’accueil numérique, animateur numérique d’un territoire et veilleur stratégique. La prise en compte de ces métiers semble incontournable pour répondre aux besoins à venir du secteur.
Structure des coûts d'alimentation en eau potable : une analyse sur un panel d'unités de production ivoiriennes
Authors: Diakité Daouda , Thomas Alban
Published: May 2013

Dans cet article, nous analysons la structure des coûts d’alimentation en eau potable des villes de Côte d’Ivoire à partir d’un panel des centres de production. Considérant les services d’eau comme des monopoles multi-produits fournissant conjointement deux biens (volumes d’eau facturés et volumes d’eau perdus), nous estimons une fonction de coût translog multi-produits sur la base de la dualité entre fonctions de production et de coût. Les différentes mesures de rendements calculées révèlent que le service d’eau moyen ivoirien produit dans la zone des rendements constants. Cependant, en classant les services en petits, moyens et grands selon différents critères, il apparaît clairement que l’opérateur a un avantage économique à accroître sa production et les connections dans la plupart des petits et moyens services. Aussi, la présence d’économies de gamme révèle que la production conjointe des deux biens considérés dans certaines proportions est plus bénéfique que l’amélioration du rendement du réseau. Enfin, les évaluations des coûts estimés font apparaître un coût marginal supérieur en moyenne aux prix marginaux des premières tranches de la grille tarifaire. Classification JEL : C33, D24, Q25.
Les économistes font-ils l'économie ferroviaire ?
Authors: Finez Jean
Published: May 2013

Nous interrogeons l’influence des économistes sur les restructurations qui touchent le secteur ferroviaire français au cours des décennies d’après-guerre à partir d’un cas particulier : le rôle de la « théorie du rendement social » de Maurice Allais. Le bilan est nuancé et incite à repenser les mécanismes par lesquels le pouvoir d’influence d’un économiste peut s’exercer et, plus généralement, à réévaluer le poids des structures, des rapports sociaux et des jeux d’acteurs dans les mutations de l’économie ferroviaire pendant les Trente Glorieuses.
La notion d'accompagnement dans les dispositifs de la politique d'emploi : entre centralité et indétermination
Authors: Fretel Anne
Published: May 2013

La notion d’accompagnement sert de plus en plus souvent à qualifier des dispositifs mis en œuvre à destination de différentes catégories de publics. Dans le champ des politiques d’emploi, cette notion tend à devenir omniprésente sans que l’on en saisisse bien les contours. Cet article essaye de mieux cerner les enjeux qui se nouent autour de la notion d’accompagnement en analysant la production normative (textes et discours) de l’administration centrale en charge de la conception de la mise en œuvre des politiques d’emploi.
Le couplage « responsabilité sociale des entreprises » et « développement durable » : mise en perspective, enjeux et limites
Authors: Quairel Françoise , Capron Michel
Published: May 2013

En Europe, les concepts de responsabilité sociale des entreprises (RSE) et de développement durable (DD) sont fortement liés. Or cette approche de la RSE ne s’est construite que depuis une dizaine d’années et elle n’est pas universellement partagée. L’objectif de cet article est de présenter les différentes étapes du processus de « couplage » entre RSE et DD, de mettre en lumière le rôle des « entrepreneurs institutionnels » (WBCSD et SustainAbility), qui ont contribué à l’institutionnalisation des grandes entreprises comme acteurs du DD et d’en analyser les enjeux et les limites. L’enjeu majeur du couplage RSE-DD est le rôle politique attribué aux grandes entreprises dans la régulation internationale en l’absence d’une véritable gouvernance mondiale et d’un droit international pour les entreprises.
Théories économiques et politique d'immigration : le cas de la réforme « Obama » du système d'immigration américain
Authors: Rocca Michel , Guidecoq Simon
Published: May 2013

Cet article s’intéresse aux déterminants de la politique d’immigration américaine. Il montre que l’adoption d’une réforme du système d’immigration américain au cours du restant de la mandature Obama est peu probable. Pour cela, nous démontrons – dans une approche purement économique – qu’on devrait s’attendre à une fermeture du système d’immigration en raison de l’accroissement depuis 2008 des préférences de la population américaine pour une restriction. Néanmoins, cette variable explicative joue empiriquement un rôle négligeable dans les évolutions passées de la politique d’immigration américaine. Ce résultat suggère donc que d’autres variables (institutionnelles et politiques) priment dans la détermination de la politique d’immigration et expliquent la persistance de son ouverture. Il incite aussi à penser que la victoire républicaine aux élections fin 2010 ne provoquera pas de changements significatifs de politique d’immigration aux États-Unis.
Enhancing the Teaching of Digital Signal Processing through Project-Based Learning
Authors: Alqudah Yazan , Qaralleh Esam , Mace Michelle
Published: May 2013

Engineering education is constantly challenged to bridge the gap between classroom and real world problems. This paper reports on the experience at PSUT to complement the teaching of digital signal processing through project-based learning. A low cost digital stethoscope is utilized by students to record heartbeat sounds and apply DSP concepts to extract vital information from the signal. The ability to apply concepts learned in the classroom to a real world problem was an important element that motivated students. The feedback from students reinforced the effectiveness of these techniques in teaching concepts of digital signal processing
A Study of the Effects of Using Matlab as a Pedagogical Tool for Engineering Mathematics Students
Authors: Mohammed Abdul Majid , Huneiti Zayed Ali , Balachandran Wamadeva , Al-Naafa Mohammed A.
Published: May 2013

The paper describes the effects of using MATLAB as a teaching and learning aid for engineering mathematics students. MATLAB has been integrated as a supplement to the traditional classroom teaching and learning. Students enrolled into the first year Integral Calculus course at the University of Haâ??il, Saudi Arabia, are the sample of the study. Students used the software in small groups and submitted their work in groups. The aims of the study are to assess the effects of the use of the software on studentsâ?? attitudes and motivation towards the utilization of technology in the teaching and learning of engineering mathematics and its impact on learning. Qualitative and quantitative data collected from the study revealed that the students have benefitted from the software. The use of the software has enhanced studentsâ?? conceptual understanding despite their weak mathematical skills. It has been noticed that studentsâ?? attitudes have been positive and their performance in the course has improved.
Simulation of Expansion Joint of Bottom Lining in Ladle and Its Influence on Thermal Stress
Authors: Li Gongfa , Liu Jia , Jiang Guozhang , Kong Jianyi , Xie Liangxi , Li Zheng
Published: May 2013

Ladle is an important equipment of the metallurgical industry. Distribution of thermal stress in bottom linings has an essential influence on its life, and the size of its life-span affects the economic benefits of the iron and steel enterprise directly. In the process of design and calibration of the large-size ladle, it is of great significance to determine the stress distribution of each part of the ladle for safely and reliably running the device. Expansion joint has an important effect on the thermal stress of ladle composite construction body. The thermal expansion stress is one of important reasons that lead to damage, so it is of great practical value to calculate the thermal expansion stress. Expansion joint question between the inside linings could be summed up as a kind of contact question, whose physical model was set up, and the finite element model of expansion joint of bottom lining in ladle was built. The contact stress of expansion joint in each layer was researched. The results illustrate that setting 2 millimeters expansion joint can reduce the contact stress which is equate to 1/6 ~ 1/5 of crushing strength of the lining.
Application of SketchUp in Coke Oven Three-Dimensional Digital Modeling
Authors: Ouyang Shuguang , Xu Jie , Su Xiaoli , Wang Zikan
Published: May 2013

Coke oven, which is a large industrial furnace, is complex in structure. A two-dimensional structure diagram can hardly help one observe the inner structure of a coke oven or master its working principle comprehensively. In order to solve this problem, a complete 3D digital model of a coke oven is generated by assembling the three-dimensional models of coke oven components created with SketchUp. It enables users to section the various components of the cove oven. The outer appearance and inner structure of the oven components also can be displayed visually from several different orientations. Moreover, it is convenient to storage and carry, operation easily and fast. It can be displayed on an ordinary computer and occupies no space at the laboratory. Meanwhile, a large sum of money that used for purchasing a physical coke oven model can be saved.
Multi‐directional derivation of self‐potential/elevation gradient (Ce) maps – swirl procedure
Authors: Ulusoy İnan , Labazuy Philippe , Aydar Erkan
Published: May 2013

The derivation of gradient maps in geophysics, particularly in the field of self‐potential has the potential to improve our understanding on the source of a signal. Self‐potential/elevation gradient maps are beneficial in significantly reducing the topographic effect. Manual calculation of the gradient for large data sets in two‐dimensions is time consuming and highly dependent on the direction of the calculation. Automation of the calculation process has the potential to overcome the time and directional dependency problems. The derivation of gradient maps in the multi‐direction improves the result and array based operators can perform the automatic calculations rapidly. Four different gradient calculation methods based on a new automatic array oriented procedure (swirl procedure) are discussed and tested with artificial and field data sets. These four methods can be simply defined by the number of data contributing to the calculation (full‐swirl or limited‐swirl procedures) and the mathematical operator (maximum value or mean value) used in the calculation. The mean value operator using the full‐swirl procedure gave the most reliable result in terms of gradient range and accuracy. The swirl procedure can effectively perform the self‐potential/elevation gradient calculations and it has a potential use in various applications.
First in situ tests of a new electrostatic resistivity meter
Authors: Flageul Sébastien , Dabas Michel , Thiesson Julien , Rejiba Fayçal , Tabbagh Alain
Published: May 2013

If field applications of the electrostatic method are limited to roughly the first ten metres due to the necessity of staying in a low‐induction number domain, the possibilities it opens in urban area surveying, dry hole resistivity logging, non‐destructive testing and laboratory studies of the complex resistivity justify the design of a new multi‐frequency resistivity meter presenting a very low‐input capacitance and high‐phase sensitivity. After a first series of sample measurements in the laboratory, the new resistivity meter was tested in two different field contexts: the mapping of building remains in a Gallo‐Roman archaeological site under a flat meadow and the assessment of the thickness of anthropogenic layers in a town. The first test allowed a direct comparison with previous galvanic resistivity measurements and proved a very good agreement between the magnitude and spatial distribution of electrical resistivity. The second test established its reliable measuring abilities in a disturbed environment.
Fracture aperture and fill characterization in a limestone quarry using GPR thin‐layer AVA analysis
Authors: Kana Aisha A. , West L. Jared , Clark Roger A.
Published: May 2013

The detection and characterization of fractures is important in many engineering practices e.g., rock fall assessment, quarry rock quality determination and mine roof and tunnel stability. Fractures may provide suitable contrasts in electrical properties for detection by GPR instruments. Their ability to reflect radar waves and the dependence of this reflectivity on fracture properties (aperture and fill) makes the GPR method a promising tool for rock fracture characterization. Doing so successfully requires quantification of the reflectivity, reflection coefficient, R, of individual fractures and its variation with incidence angle (AVA), or in practice, offset. Measuring the full AVA response using Common Mid Point (CMP) surveys enables simultaneous estimation of fracture aperture and fill permittivity, difficult to achieve with Common Offset (CO) profiling which does not evaluate angle dependence. This paper reports on AVA analysis carried out on CMP data acquired with 500 MHz antennae over Carboniferous Limestone with horizontal bedding plane fractures in Yorkshire, United Kingdom. Using the transverse electric (TE) polarization mode, data were collected at a sampling interval of 0.05 ns for offsets at 0.04 m steps from 0.37–16.05m.

The recorded amplitude is related to the reflection coefficient but is also influenced by other factors we eliminated by making some simplifying assumptions and amplitude corrections. We assume frequency‐independent electrical properties, constant antenna coupling with the ground surface, constant losses associated with transmission losses through any interfaces above the target reflection for the range of offsets considered and a flat homogeneous surface over which measurements are made. Amplitudes were corrected for conductive attenuation, spherical spreading and antenna patterns, which we measured through transillumination surveys across limestone boulders and numerical modelling using the GprMax 3D modelling code. To constrain fracture aperture and fill permittivity, we use the least squares fit of normalized reflection coefficient curves to corrected CMP amplitudes. The analysis allowed characterization of the (bedding plane) fracture fill relative permittivity (~7.8) and aperture (~0.043 m, ~0.2 at 500 MHz). The values obtained are consistent with field observations of fracture fill, corresponding to a mixture of clays and calcite.
Towards an automatic seismic localization of human footsteps
Authors: Heider Sven , Jetschny Stefan , Bohlen Thomas
Published: May 2013

Today, many companies or government institutions are required to monitor outdoor areas of office buildings, frontiers or restricted areas. In this paper we present an automated algorithm to monitor and to localize human footsteps with the help of their excited seismic waves. The preliminary goal of the data processing is the calculation of traveltime differences for each receiver pair of an arbitrary array of geophones. The data are filtered with a band‐pass filter, which improves the signal‐to‐noise ratio significantly. A short term average / long term average (sta / lta) picker determines the time of the first breaks. After cutting out time windows around the picked arrival times, the traveltime differences are than calculated for each receiver pair using cross‐correlation. Finally, a grid search algorithm is used to invert the traveltime differences into locations of the footstep. Therefore, the propagation velocity of the Rayleigh wave has to be approximated. In one field measurement reliable and precise localizations were achieved. Footsteps on a fixed position were localized within an area of 30 m x 30 m with less than one metre deviation and paths on a straight line were reconstructed successfully.
Cutting Edge: Receptors for C3a and C5a Modulate Stability of Alloantigen-Reactive Induced Regulatory T Cells
Authors: van der Touw William , Cravedi Paolo , Kwan Wing-hong , Paz-Artal Estela , Merad Miriam , Heeger Peter S.
Published: May 2013

CD4+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Treg) are critical regulators of immune homeostasis and self-tolerance. Whereas thymic-derived or natural Treg stably express Foxp3, adaptive or induced Treg (iTreg) generated from peripheral CD4 T cells are susceptible to inflammation-induced reversion to pathogenic effector T cells. Building upon our previous observations that T cell–expressed receptors for C3a (C3aR) and C5a (C5aR) drive Th1 maturation, we tested the impact of C3aR/C5aR signaling on induction and stability of alloreactive iTreg. We observed that genetic deficiency or pharmacological blockade of C3aR/C5aR signaling augments murine and human iTreg generation, stabilizes Foxp3 expression, resists iTreg conversion to IFN-γ/TNF-α–producing efffector T cells, and, as a consequence, limits the clinical expression of graft-versus-host disease. Taken together, the findings highlight the expansive role of complement as a crucial modulator of T cell alloimmunity and demonstrate proof-of-concept that targeting C3a/C3aR and C5a/C5aR interactions could facilitate iTreg-mediated tolerance to alloantigens in humans.
A Protestant perspective on Vatican II & 50 years: An engagement with dissent
Authors: Duncan Graham A.
Published: May 2013

The Second Vatican Council (1962–1965) is regarded by many in Protestant circles as one of the most significant processes in ecumenical church history during the 20th century. At the time hopes were high that closer cooperation was a reality to be embraced and achieved. Concurrently, a younger generation of Roman Catholic theologians began to make their mark on the ecumenical theological scene. Their work has provided a bridge between the two ecclesiastical traditions, notwithstanding the subsequent negative response of the Roman church hierarchy. Despite important advances, recent pontificates have destroyed much of the enthusiasm and commitment to unity. This article examines the disjuncture in views regarding the outcomes of the Council and points of contact with Protestant thinking.
Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC/D): A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Romero Jorge , Mejia-Lopez Eliany , Manrique Carlos , Lucariello Richard
Published: May 2013

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy/dysplasia (ARVC/D) is a genetic form of cardiomyopathy (CM) usually transmitted with an autosomal dominant pattern. It primary affects the right ventricle (RV), but may involve the left ventricle (LV) and culminate in biventricular heart failure (HF), life threatening ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death (SCD). It accounts for ll%-22% of cases of SCD in the young athlete population. Pathologically is characterized by myocardial atrophy, fibrofatty replacement and chamber dilation.

Diagnosis is often difficult due to the nonspecific nature of the disease and the broad spectrum of phenotypic variations. Therefore consensus diagnostic criteria have been developed and combined electrocardiography, echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI) and myocardial biopsy. Early detection, family screening and risk stratification are the cornerstones in the diagnostic evaluation. Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) implantation, ablative procedures and heart transplantation are currently the main therapeutic options.