bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping Rainfall‐Triggered Slidequakes and Seismic Landslide‐Volume Estimation at Heumoes Slope
Authors: Walter M. , Walser M. , Joswig M.
Published: September 2012

Applying the method of nanoseismic monitoring in field campaigns between 2005 and 2008 at the Heumoes landslide in the Austrian Alps, we discovered and located fracture processes with seismic local magnitudes (ML) between −2.2 and −0.7. The creeping Heumoes slope consists of weak sediments (loamy scree and glacial till) and moves an average of a few centimeters per year at the surface. The seismic detection of single fracture processes or initial stress relief resolves the creeping movement of the slope into discrete rupture episodes. The spatial distribution of fractures is concentrated in parts of the slope with higher deformation rates at the surface. The temporal occurrence correlates with rainfall events and reinforces the assumption of a rainfall‐triggered slope movement. In addition, we observed weak local earthquakes (ML ∼ 2) with a distance of ∼10 km to have an influence on fracture generation at the slope. Furthermore, an average thickness of ∼20 m (and a maximum of >30 m) for the unstable sediment cover of Heumoes slope was determined by refraction seismic techniques along several seismic profiles. The slope's total volume is estimated to be 107 m3; its mass is approximately 1.6 × 107 Mg. The determination of the landslide volume is essential for further hazard assessment of the unstable Heumoes slope.
Modeling Soil‐Coupled Water Uptake of Multiple Root Systems with Automatic Time Stepping
Authors: Kalbacher T. , Schneider C. L. , Wang W. , Hildebrandt A. , Attinger S. , Kolditz O.
Published: September 2012

Numerical modeling of interacting flow processes between roots and the soil is essential for understanding the influence of different root geometries and types on the hydrosystem. The coupling of two software tools enables the analysis of water uptake of plant communities, one modeling the water flow along a network of resistances from the bulk soil along radial soil disks toward the root system up to the root collar, while the second tool is covering the nonlinear dynamics of water flow within soil by a three‐dimensional Richards model. Appropriate methods for geometric coupling, fast coupled parameter exchange, and coordinated parallelization have been developed to ensure an efficient functionality. An adaptive time stepping with automatic control guarantees the stability of the solution of nonlinear problems.
Epididymosome‐Mediated Acquisition of MMSDH, an Androgen‐Dependent and Developmentally Regulated Epididymal Sperm Protein
Authors: Suryawanshi Amol R. , Khan Shagufta A. , Joshi Chetanchandra S. , Khole Vrinda V.
Published: September 2012

Abstract: A differential proteomics approach led to the identification of several novel epididymal sperm proteins. One of the novel proteins was methylmalonate‐semialdehyde dehydrogenase (MMSDH). In the present study, we carried out an in‐depth characterization to study its regulation by androgen, its appearance during ontogeny, and the mechanism of its interaction with and acquisition by the sperm. Western blotting and immunohistochemical studies suggest that the protein is present in both tissue and sperm from all regions of the epididymis, indicating synthesis as well as acquisition of the protein in these regions. Androgen depletion resulted in reduction of the MMSDH protein level in the epididymis, which completely disappeared 1 week after castration. The protein reappeared after testosterone propionate injection, indicating that the protein is regulated by androgens. Ontogeny studies indicated that the protein appeared from day 10 postnatal with a gradual increase at day 30, which maximized at day 50, indicating that the protein is developmentally regulated and is probably involved in epididymal development. Sequential extraction of sperm proteins indicated that MMSDH exists both as a peripheral and integral form on the plasma membrane. We also found that the protein can be transferred from the epididymosomes to testicular sperm in vitro. The study provides evidence regarding the acquisition of this multidomain androgen and developmentally regulated protein in the epididymis via the epididymosomes. The molecule has generated enough interest and deserves to be investigated further for its physiological relevance.
Activity of the Na,K‐ATPase α4 Isoform Is Regulated During Sperm Capacitation to Support Sperm Motility
Authors: Jimenez Tamara , Sánchez Gladis , Blanco Gustavo
Published: September 2012

Abstract: The α4 polypeptide is a testis‐specific isoform of the catalytic subunit of the Na,K‐ATPase, which is essential for sperm motility and fertility. In the present study, we have investigated the regulation of activity of the α4 isoform and the relevance of this event for sperm capacitation. We have performed this by taking advantage of the selective high affinity of α4 for the inhibitor ouabain. Our results show that ouabain‐sensitive hydrolysis of ATP and uptake of 86Rb, corresponding to the enzymatic and ion transport activities of α4, respectively, increased during sperm capacitation in a time‐dependent manner. Specific labeling of α4 with the fluorescent indicator bodipy‐ouabain and immunoblot analysis of biotinylated and streptavidin‐precipitated sperm plasma membrane proteins indicated a capacitation‐ and time‐dependent rise in levels of active α4 isoform at the sperm surface. Ouabain inhibition of α4 blocked the increase in total sperm motility and the hyperactive motility pattern characteristic of sperm capacitation. Moreover, interference of α4 activity with ouabain partially prevented the intracellular decrease in Na+ and the plasma membrane hyperpolarization that typically accompany sperm capacitation. In contrast, ouabain inhibition of α4 did not affect the spontaneous sperm acrosomal reaction following capacitation. Together, these results demonstrate that Na,K‐ATPase α4 activity is up‐regulated during sperm capacitation through mechanisms that involve both increases in molecular activity and levels of α4 at the sperm plasma membrane. This increase in α4 activity helps maintain the changes in motility that are associated with sperm capacitation, emphasizing the biologic relevance of the Na,K‐ATPase α4 isoform in sustaining sperm function.
A New Practical Model of Testes Shield: The Effectiveness During Abdominopelvic Computed Tomography
Authors: Sancaktutar Ahmet Ali , Bozkurt Yaşar , Önder Hakan , Söylemez Haluk , Atar Murat , Penbegül Necmettin , Ziypak Tevfik , Tekbaş Güven , Tepeler Abdülkadir
Published: September 2012

Abstract: The goal of our prospective study was to measure the effect of a new standard model male gonad shield on the testicular radiation exposure during routine abdominopelvic computed tomography (CT). Two hundred male patients who underwent upper abdominal and pelvic CT examinations were included in our study. To prepare the testes shield (TS), 2 No. 8 fluoroscopy radiation‐protection gloves made of bismuth (0.35 mm lead equivalent) were used. These gloves were invaginated into one another and their fingers were turned inside out. Scrotums of all patients were pushed into these lead‐containing gloves. Upper abdominal CT (n = 6), pelvic CT (n = 9), and abdominopelvic scanning (n = 185) were performed. Immediately after the CT examinations and at postprocedural day 1, the scrotal examinations were repeated. None of the patients exhibited scrotal laceration, edema, eruption, erythema, tenderness, or pain. During the CT examinations, 22 patients (11%) felt unrest because of their exposed genital regions, without any adverse effect on the procedure. Dosimetric measurements of radioactivity inside the TS (dosimeter I) and outside it (dosimeter II) were 6.8 and 69.00 mSv, respectively. Accordingly, the TS we used in our study reduced the radiation exposure of the testes by 90.2% (10.1 times). We think that the use of this radioprotective TS during radiological diagnostic and therapeutic procedures is an appropriate approach from both a medical and legal perspective. Therefore, we recommend this userfriendly, practical, low‐cost, and effective TS for all radiologic procedures.
Pharmacokinetic Evaluation and Dosing of Subcutaneous Testosterone Pellets
Authors: Pastuszak Alexander W. , Mittakanti Harsha , Liu Joceline S. , Gomez Lissette , Lipshultz Larry I. , Khera Mohit
Published: September 2012

Abstract: Subcutaneous testosterone (T) pellets are a viable treatment modality for hypogonadism. Optimal dosing, frequency of reimplantation, and long‐term safety of T pellets remain incompletely elucidated parameters. A retrospective review of 273 patients treated for hypogonadism using subcutaneous T pellets was performed. Serum total T (TT), free T (FT), and estradiol (E2) levels were analyzed as a function of time from implantation, number of pellets implanted (6–9 or 10–12), body mass index (BMI; <25 or ≥25 kg/m2), number of implantations (≤4 rounds, 501 insertions), and preimplantation T levels (<300 or ≥300 ng/dL). T decay was determined using linear regression and TT levels immediately postimplantation and the time for TT levels to reach 300 ng/dL extrapolated for all variables. Mean patient age ± SD was 56 ± 12.6 years. Baseline TT level was 328 ± 202 ng/dL, FT 9.49 ± 27.8 pg/mL, and E2 25.1 ± 17.3 pg/mL. Extrapolated TT and FT peaks were lower in men receiving 6 to 9 pellets than men receiving 10 to 12, although decay rates differed insignificantly. E2 levels rose significantly in men receiving 10 to 12 but not 6 to 9 pellets. Men with BMI ≥25 kg/m2 attained lower TT peaks with slower decay than men with BMI <25 kg/m2 receiving 10 to 12 pellets, although 300 ng/dL TT levels were reached at approximately 100 days in both groups. No differences were seen in decay rates for men with multiple implant rounds, and no differences in T peaks or decay rates were seen in men with preimplant T level <300 or ≥300 ng/dL. One patient developed erythrocytosis, and no prostate‐specific antigen recurrences were observed in men with prostate cancer treated with T pellets. Men with BMI <25 kg/m2 should receive fewer pellets, and reimplantation for all men should occur 100 to 120 days after prior implantation. Men receiving 10 to 12 pellets have higher E2 levels, potentially reflecting increased aromatization of T. Reimplantation and preimplantation TT levels do not affect pellet decay kinetics.
Spectrophotometric study of competitive complexation equilibria involving overlapped spectral responding species: Determination of the stability constant of bismuth-pyrophosphate complex
Authors: Nedeltcheva Tsvetanka , Surleva Andriana , Nikolova Liliya , Borissova Rahila , Georgieva Stela
Published: September 2012

Spectrophotometric study of competitive complex formation equilibria involving overlapped spectral responding species applying a simple and versatile algorithm was carried out. The algorithm involves multivariable regression for calculation of equilibrium concentrations from multiwavelength data and mass action law for the stability constant calculation. The used regression functions are part of common statistical software. Stability constants and complex stoichiometry of competing equilibria were simultaneously determined. The species concentration profiles at several spectral overlapping and α-coefficient of competing reaction were obtained. Non-absorbing bismuth — pyrophosphate (PPh) system was studied as a competitive reaction of bismuth — 4-(2-Pyridylazo) resorcinol (PAR) complex. The formation of Bi-PPh complex with 1:1 stoichiometry was proved in the studied concentration region (CBi = 1×10−5 mol L−1; CPPh = 5×10−6 − 1×10−4 mol L−1). The stability constant of the complex at pH 1 and µ = 1.0 have been determined: logβ = 4.2±0.2.
Excess interfacial energy change of solid/aqueous salt solution system with increasing salt concentration at a constant charge-determining ion activity based on the Gibbs equation and ionic components of charge
Authors: Ratajczak Tomasz , Drzymala Jan
Published: September 2012

A thermodynamic equation relating the change of interfacial excess (Gibbs) energy in the solid/aqueous salt solution system, caused by a variation of concentration of inorganic salt at a constant charge-determining ion activity, temperature and pressure, is derived. The equation is based on the Gibbs equation and ionic components of charge parameters. On the basis of literature experimental data for the AgI/aqueous KNO3 and TiO2/aqueous NaCl systems it was shown that the interfacial excess energy decreases with increasing salt concentration due to variation of the ionic components of charge of the interface.
Electrochemical determination of tyrosine in the presence of uric acid at a carbon paste electrode modified with multi-walled carbon nanotubes enhanced by sodium dodecyl sulfate
Authors: Ghoreishi Sayed , Behpour Mohsen , Delshad Mona , Khoobi Asma
Published: September 2012

Tyrosine (Tyr) was quantitated with high sensitivity and selectivity in the presence of uric acid (UA) using a carbon paste electrode modified with multi-walled carbon nanotubes. Tyr and UA were catalytically oxidized with diffusion-controlled characteristics. They were determined simultaneously by differential pulse voltammetry with a potential difference of 350 mV. The electrocatalytic currents increase linearly with Tyr and UA concentrations 4×10−7−1×10−4 M and 3×10−7−2×10−4 M. Their detection limits were 1×10−7 and 5.1×10−8 M respectively. In the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate the Tyr detection limit improved from 1×10−7 to 6.9×10−8 M. The electrode was successfully used to quantitate Tyr and UA in serum.
Novel Cu and Cu2In/aluminosilicate type catalysts for the reduction of biomass-derived volatile fatty acids to alcohols
Authors: Harnos Szabolcs , Onyestyák György , Barthos Róbert , Štolcová Magdalena , Kaszonyi Alexander , Valyon József
Published: September 2012

This work relates to the consecutive reduction of short chain carboxylic acids (volatile fatty acids, VFAs) to alcohols as main products. Acetic acid (AA) was used as a reactant to model the VFAs that can be produced by either thermochemical or biological biomass degradation. The amorphised zeolite supported copper catalysts (Cu/SiAl), especially the In-modified CuIn/SiAl catalysts, showed high hydroconversion activity and selectivity for alcohol, ester and aldehyde. Catalysts containing dispersed copper particles in amorphous aluminosilicate were obtained by dehydrating and H2-reducing Cu-forms of low-silica synthetic zeolites (A, X, P). The activity of the highly destructed Cu-aluminosilicates was found to depend on the structure of the zeolite precursor. The formation of ethyl acetate could be suppressed by adding water to the AA feed and by modifying the catalyst, e.g. by In2O3 additive. In the catalysts modified by In2O3 additive formation of copper-indium alloy phase (Cu2In intermetallic compound) was detected resulting in a different selectivity than the one recorded for the Cu/SiAl.
Application of multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares (MCR-ALS) for resolving pyrogallol autoxidation in weakly alkaline aqueous solutions
Authors: Veselinović Aleksandar , Nikolić Ružica , Nikolić Goran
Published: September 2012

Multivariate curve resolution — alternating least squares (MCR-ALS) has been applied to data collected from UV/Vis spectrophotometric analysis of the autoxidation process of pyrogallol in weakly alkaline aqueous solutions. The MCR-ALS analysis was able to explain the autoxidation kinetics of pyrogallol at pH 7.4 and 8.0, allowing deduction of the pure spectra and concentration changes of different species present throughout the entire process. The autoxidation process at pH 7.4 was found to follow a first-order reaction model, with formation of purpurogallin as the sole and terminal product. Changing the pH to 8.0 not only accelerated autoxidation of pyrogallol to purpurogallin but also introduced a further autoxidation of purpurogallin. At pH 8.0 the process fits a model of two consecutive first-order reactions. The first step is formation of purpurogallin, which reacts in a further autoxidation to form a yellow colored substance, most probably purpurogallin polymer.
Chitosan/anionic surfactant microparticles synthesized by high pressure spraying method for removal of phenolic pollutants
Authors: Peretz Sandu , Florea-Spiroiu Manuela , Anghel Dan-Florin , Bala Daniela , Branzoi Florina , Moreno Jose-Calderon
Published: September 2012

Biopolymeric microparticles were prepared by rapid expansion of high pressure CO2-chitosan (Chi) solution in sodium bis-(2-ethyl hexyl) sulfosuccinate (AOT) solution. At pressures higher than 2 MPa, ultrafine particles were formed while under this value, wires were obtained. The formation of Chi/AOT complex was confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy, whereas scanning electron microscopy was used to characterize the morphology, size and shape of the particles. The FTIR spectrum proved the interaction between the sulfonate groups of AOT and the amino groups of Chi. Microparticles are quasi-spherical in wet conditions and irregular after freeze drying, presenting a rough surface with many pores. Lyophilized hydrophobic microparticles were used to remove phenol and o-cresol from aqueous solution, and the adsorption process showed a maximum efficiency in the 7–8 pH range. The uptake of phenol and o-cresol increased with the amount of particles and decreased with increasing the pollutant concentration. The adsorption occurred rapidly in the first 60–120 minutes, and leveled off thereafter.
On the influence of Greenland outlet glacier bed topography on results from dynamic ice-sheet models
Authors: Herzfeld Ute C. , Fastook James , Greve Ralf , McDonald Brian , Wallin Bruce F. , Chen Phillip A.
Published: September 2012

Prediction of future changes in dynamics of the Earth’s ice sheets, mass loss and resultant contribution to sea-level rise are the main objectives of ice-sheet modeling. Mass transfer from ice sheet to ocean is, in large part, through outlet glaciers. Subglacial topography plays an important role in ice dynamics; however, trough systems have not been included in bed digital elevation models (DEMS) used in modeling, because their size is close to the model resolution. Using recently collected CReSIS MCoRDs data of subglacial topography and an algorithm that allows topographically and morphologically correct integration of troughs and trough systems at any modeling scale (5 km resolution for SeaRISE), an improved Greenland bed DEM was developed that includes Jakobshavn Isbræ, Helheim, Kangerdlussuaq and Petermann glaciers (JakHelKanPet DEM). Contrasting the different responses of two Greenland ice-sheet models (UMISM and SICOPOLIS) to the more accurately represented bed shows significant differences in modeled surface velocity, basal water production and ice thickness. Consequently, modeled ice volumes for the Greenland ice sheet are significantly smaller using the JakHelKanPet DEM, and volume losses larger. More generally, the study demonstrates the role of spatial modeling of data specifically as input for dynamic ice-sheet models in assessments of future sea-level rise.
The Effect of Developing a Tunnel across a Highway on the Water Quality in an Upstream Reservoir Watershed Area—A Case Study of the Hsuehshan Tunnel in Taiwan
Authors: Shyu Guey-Shin , Cheng Bai-You , Fang Wei-Ta
Published: September 2012

Cities in Taiwan are so dependent on reservoir water that preservation of the upstream reservoir watershed has become a significant public concern. However, due to the high-density development of land, resulting in rapid urban expansion, the construction of tunnels and elevated highways across reservoirs to better utilize the surrounding land has become a global trend. Based on data from long-term observation of the reservoir, this study verifies the difference in water quality before and after the highway construction. The results indicate that the total phosphorus (TP) increased on average 14 μg/L to 36.5 μg/L per annum, and the water quality is expected to require 10 years to recover. During the highway development, the average TP was more than twice the normal level. During summer, the TP level increases 3.1-fold due to rainfall. As indicated by the results, the large-scale land development will harm the long-term preservation of the reservoir’s water quality, and therefore should be avoided.
Environmental Risk Factors for Multiple Sclerosis: A Review with a Focus on Molecular Mechanisms
Authors: O’Gorman Cullen , Lucas Robyn , Taylor Bruce
Published: September 2012

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disabling disease of the central nervous system commonly affecting young adults. Pathologically, there are patches of inflammation (plaques) with demyelination of axons and oligodendrocyte loss. There is a global latitude gradient in MS prevalence, and incidence of MS is increasing (particularly in females). These changes suggest a major role for environmental factors in causation of disease. We have reviewed the evidence and potential mechanisms of action for three exposures: vitamin D, Epstein Barr virus and cigarette smoking. Recent advances supporting gene-environment interactions are reviewed. Further research is needed to establish mechanisms of causality in humans and to explore preventative strategies.
Microsatellite Loci in the Gypsophyte Lepidium subulatum (Brassicaceae), and Transferability to Other Lepidieae
Authors: Martínez-Nieto María Isabel , Encarna Merlo María , Mota Juan Francisco , Salmerón-Sánchez Esteban , Segarra-Moragues José Gabriel
Published: September 2012

Polymorphic microsatellite markers were developed for the Ibero-North African, strict gypsophyte Lepidium subulatum to unravel the effects of habitat fragmentation in levels of genetic diversity, genetic structure and gene flow among its populations. Using 454 pyrosequencing 12 microsatellite loci including di- and tri-nucleotide repeats were characterized in L. subulatum. They amplified a total of 80 alleles (2–12 alleles per locus) in a sample of 35 individuals of L. subulatum, showing relatively high levels of genetic diversity, HO = 0.645, HE = 0.627. Cross-species transferability of all 12 loci was successful for the Iberian endemics Lepidium cardamines, Lepidium stylatum, and the widespread, Lepidium graminifolium and one species each of two related genera, Cardaria draba and Coronopus didymus. These microsatellite primers will be useful to investigate genetic diversity, population structure and to address conservation genetics in species of Lepidium.
The Biological Control of the Malaria Vector
Authors: Kamareddine Layla
Published: September 2012

The call for malaria control, over the last century, marked a new epoch in the history of this disease. Many control strategies targeting either the Plasmodium parasite or the Anopheles vector were shown to be effective. Yet, the emergence of drug resistant parasites and insecticide resistant mosquito strains, along with numerous health, environmental, and ecological side effects of many chemical agents, highlighted the need to develop alternative tools that either complement or substitute conventional malaria control approaches. The use of biological means is considered a fundamental part of the recently launched malaria eradication program and has so far shown promising results, although this approach is still in its infancy. This review presents an overview of the most promising biological control tools for malaria eradication, namely fungi, bacteria, larvivorous fish, parasites, viruses and nematodes.
FLEXIBILITY VS. SPECIALISATION IN RO-RO SHIPPING IN THE SOUTH BALTIC SEA
Authors: Woxenius Johan
Published: September 2012

The trade-off between flexibility and specialisation implies delicate tasks for transport system designers and marketing managers. The outcome of their efforts ranges from highly specialised solutions for a restricted number of users and types of cargoes to very open systems for common use adapted to accommodate a wide variety of transport demands. The purpose of this article is to adapt theories on openness and trade-offs, characterise a selection of flexible and specialised European short sea shipping concepts and analyse how substantial changes in the future character of the competition with road and rail can affect the development of ro-ro shipping in the South Baltic Sea. A matrix with commercial openness and technological openness on the axes is used for categorising sub-segments in the empirical context of the South Baltic Sea. Foreseeable changes in key cost and competition parameters until 2020 are taken into account in discussing potential scenarios. A plausible outcome for the ferry/ro-ro shipping segment is that a branch with slow services for unaccompanied freight will be diverted from the current homogenous market offerings. During the study, the Swedish Orient Line launched a service with these characteristics, which is analysed in a case study.
PASSENGER PREFERENCE ANALYSIS: LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT OR BUS VERSUS CAR
Authors: Dell’Olio Luigi , Ibeas Angel , Dominguez Alberto , Gonzalez Felipe
Published: September 2012

To begin with, his article studies the user's preferences when faced with the introduction of two completely different public transport systems: the bus and the Light Rail Transit (LRT). Also, it examines how the modal distribution varies between the private car and each of the new systems, in particular. In addition, the most important variables for users when travelling in a congested corridor are individualized and a study is made on how these variables influence on the modal distribution. The results of the stated preferences of surveys are modelled using mixed logit models. Values are estimated for user's time and the demand elasticity is determined with respect to the relevant variables. Different situations are created to analyse how user's behaviour changes with the changes in the most important variables. Furthermore, this article quantifies the effects of the more relevant variables and shows that the LRT can attract more demand than a bus service, but it must guarantee a regular and frequent service, at the same time as charging competitive fares. It is also shown that for the introduction to be more successful any taken action should be accompanied by policies that chastise the use of the private car such as increased parking charges or higher fuel taxes.
META-ANALYSIS OF CHOICE SET GENERATION EFFECTS ON ROUTE CHOICE MODEL ESTIMATES AND PREDICTIONS
Authors: Prato Carlo Giacomo
Published: September 2012

Large scale applications of behaviorally realistic transport models pose several challenges to transport modelers on both the demand and the supply sides. On the supply side, path-based solutions to the user assignment equilibrium problem help modelers in enhancing the route choice behavior modeling, but require them to generate choice sets by selecting a path generation technique and its parameters according to personal judgments. This paper proposes a methodology and an experimental setting to provide general indications about objective judgments for an effective route choice set generation. Initially, path generation techniques are implemented within a synthetic network to generate possible subjective choice sets considered by travelers. Next, ‘true model estimates’ and ‘postulated predicted routes’ are assumed from the simulation of a route choice model. Then, objective choice sets are applied for model estimation and results are compared to the ‘true model estimates’. Last, predictions from the simulation of models estimated with objective choice sets are compared to the ‘postulated predicted routes’. A meta-analytical approach allows synthesizing the effect of judgments for the implementation of path generation techniques, since a large number of models generate a large amount of results that are otherwise difficult to summarize and to process. Meta-analysis estimates suggest that transport modelers should implement stochastic path generation techniques with average variance of its distribution parameters and correction for unequal sampling probabilities of the alternative routes in order to obtain satisfactory results in terms of coverage of ‘postulated chosen routes’, reproduction of ‘true model estimates’ and prediction of ‘postulated predicted routes’.
Territoriality is in the Eyes of the Beholder
Authors: Stanivuković Senka Neuman
Published: September 2012

Résumé La transition post-communiste a placé les pays d’Europe centrale et orientale, ainsi que les Balkans occidentaux, dans un état schizophrénique de consolidation et de dissolution simultanée de leurs États-nations. Alors que d’énormes efforts ont été faits pour consolider les États-nations après plusieurs années de combat pour leur souveraineté, ils ont dû simultanément céder une part de celle-ci pour accéder à l’Union Européenne. Ce changement accéléré de l’ordre westphalien à un ordre post-westphalien n’a pas été sans difficulté. Aussi, cet article s’intéresse aux changements dans la perception locale de la territorialité étatique dans le contexte de l’accession à l’UE. L’article cherche à savoir dans quelle mesure l’Europe des régions, en tant que développement normatif, résonne dans le discours politique au sujet de la régionalisation, en prenant le cas de la Croatie. En effectuant une analyse de discours sur l’idée de l’européanisation, l’article cherche à aller au-delà des analyses centrées sur la conditionnalité, pour prendre en compte de la dispersion horizontale des normes et de leur domestication à travers un cadre discursif. En définitive, l’article met en doute les axiomes conventionnels des études sur la régionalisation à travers l’accession des pays de l’Europe centrale et orientale.
Effective or Appropriated Federalism?
Authors: Nurieva Elvira
Published: September 2012

Résumé Un fédéralisme effectif se caractérise par l’autonomie politique, juridique et administrative des entités constituantes, par des subventions financières attribuées aux différents ordres de gouvernement et par une instance représentant les intérêts régionaux au niveau fédéral (Ronald Watts). De jure, la constitution de la fédération de Russie considère deux niveaux de gouvernement, précise les compétences (fédérales, partagées et résiduelles), et garantit la représentation régionale dans la seconde chambre, le Conseil de la Fédération. Cependant, de facto, le fédéralisme russe, en particulier après les réformes fédérales du président Vladimir Poutine (2000-2004), représente une forme de gouvernance loin d’être aussi « effective ». Par exemple, la nouvelle organisation du Conseil de la Fédération a substantiellement affaibli cette institution, et l’a transformée en un organe plutôt cérémoniel. La désignation des gouverneurs de région par le président russe a privé les entités constituantes de leur autonomie politique. L’étude de la situation troublée du peuple Mari dans la république de Mari El, en particulier durant la présidence continue de Leonid Markelov, nourrit ce débat avec les constatations et les mises en garde des principales organisations des droits de l’homme (Minority Rights Group International, International Helsinki Federation for Human Rights, Moscow Helsinki Group).
Les enjeux de la prévention
Authors: Forette Françoise
Published: September 2012

La révolution de la longévité est un privilège de nos nations développées à la condition que la population vieillisse en bonne santé, active et pleinement intégrée à la société. C’est dire la nécessité absolue de la prévention qui a trois cibles : les maladies liées à l’âge, la fragilité et l’inactivité. Les acteurs prioritaires en sont l’école, le milieu professionnel, les institutions de prévoyance et de retraite et le médecin généraliste. Ainsi, l’éducation, la prévention et l’intégration sociale et professionnelle feront du vieillissement une nouvelle aventure du vivant.
Les apports de l'enquête handicap santé
Authors: Renaut Sylvie
Published: September 2012

Dans une approche universaliste, l’enquête Handicap-Santé menée par l’Insee et la Drees en 2008, en population générale et sans restriction d’âge, est mobilisée pour approfondir les comportements individuels. Les limitations fonctionnelles, plus fréquentes avec l’âge, n’en sont pas moins présentes très tôt dans le cycle de vie. L’inventaire des dispositifs de soutien montre que les aides techniques se rapprochent des aides humaines (celles des proches et professionnels) qui sont toujours les plus répandues à tous les âges, tandis que les interventions pour l’adaptation du logement sont moins courantes.
Personnes en limitation d'autonomie à domicile et prévention
Authors: Imbert Geneviève , Ferrandez Anne-Marie , Querre Madina
Published: September 2012

Rhisaa (Recherche qualitative exploratoire sur les handicaps, les incapacités, la santé et l’aide pour l’autonomie), a notamment mis en évidence la place centrale des auxiliaires de vie dans l’accompagnement et le suivi des personnes en besoin d’aide à l’autonomie, quel que soit leur âge, et leur participation à des actions de prévention (notamment au cours des repas et des soins corporels réalisés lors de la toilette) auprès des bénéficiaires qu’elles accompagnent. Au-delà d’un besoin de reconnaissance lié à un flou identitaire, ces travaux ont permis d’identifier en particulier certaines insuffisances (formation, supervision et encadrement) pour que ces auxiliaires de vie soient des acteurs de prévention de première ligne à part entière.
Résultats d'un programme de prévention bucco-dentaire
Authors: Birou Gérard
Published: September 2012

Le service prévention santé, l’échelon national du contrôle médical de la Caisse centrale de la mutualité sociale agricole (CCMSA) et les chirurgiens-dentistes conseils du réseau ont mis en place un programme de prévention bucco-dentaire axé sur certains âges ou populations à risque. L’action destinée aux bénéficiaires de 65 ans de la mutualité sociale agricole (MSA) a pour objet de leur proposer un bilan bucco-dentaire gratuit. Il s’agit pour le praticien de réaliser un état des lieux des besoins en soins et de donner des conseils personnalisés. La méthodologie de l’action permet également d’évaluer le pourcentage de personnes qui n’ont pas participé à l’examen de prévention et qui ne sont pas suivies habituellement sur le plan dentaire. L’analyse des résultats par catégories socioprofessionnelles traduit des inégalités de l’état bucco-dentaire, des comportements et des recours aux soins.
De l'expérimentation des MAIA à leur déploiement
Authors: Dupont Olivier
Published: September 2012

L’année 2011 est une année d’évolution pour les maisons pour l’autonomie et l’intégration des malades Alzheimer (Maia) . Ces dispositifs innovants qui visent à simplifier le parcours des personnes en perte d’autonomie entrent dans les textes réglementaires. Inscrit dans la loi de finances de la sécurité sociale 2011, le cahier des charges national approuvé par décret vient donner les bases légales et réglementaires pour lancer la généralisation du dispositif. Maia est une méthode pour conduire des porteurs identifiés de la coordination (réseaux de santé, centres locaux d’information et de coordination (Clic), conseils généraux...) vers une dynamique partenariale innovante : l’intégration des services d’aide de soins et d’accompagnement en un même dispositif.
Expérimentations et enseignements d'AG2R la mondiale
Authors: Sanchez Éric
Published: September 2012

Au sein de nos groupes de protection sociale, nous expérimentons différentes actions en matière de prévention en ayant conscience de l’absence de modèle idéal, du fait de l’hétérogénéité du contexte social, sanitaire, économique et culturel. Les enseignements tirés de nos expériences telles l’organisation d’ateliers, de séjours prévention, du bus prévention La caravane de la solidarité, des Villages Bien-être, du passeport pour le bien vieillir, soulignent la nécessité de travailler en partenariat, sur la durée et en milieu ordinaire, et d’être particulièrement attentif aux personnes fragiles handicapées, immigrantes et âgées, atteintes de la maladie d’Alzheimer, en deuil, isolées, ceci afin d’éviter leur stigmatisation.
Les Agamas : des livres saints canoniques
Authors: Fuller Chris
Published: September 2012

Les Agamas sont des textes sanscrits qui régissent le rituel hindou des temples de Shiva. Dans les écoles religieuses, les prêtres en mémorisent par cœur des passages entiers, mais n’apprennent pas à exécuter les rituels conformément aux règles agamiques, comme les réformistes estiment qu’ils devraient le faire. Or, une telle exigence renvoie à une conception moderne des Agamas comme livres saints canoniques, qui a été favorisée par l’impression, la publication et la révision de copies manuscrites de ces textes. L’Institut français de Pondichéry a joué un rôle important dans ce processus en faisant paraître des versions autorisées de textes agamiques. La primauté de l’oralité reste valorisée et, bien qu’ils soient désormais des «  livres saints », les Agamas ne sont pas des «  livres-objets » sacrés comme il en existe dans d’autres religions.
Cellular Automaton Modeling Driver Behavior at a Single-Lane Roundabout
Authors: Yu Xiao Ping , Liu Ming Zhe , Yang Jian Bo , Wang Lei , Li Zhe
Published: September 2012

In this paper a cellular automata model is proposed to describe driver behavior at a single-lane roundabout. Two truncated Gaussian distributions are used to model heterogeneous and inconsistent driver behavior. Numerical results show that our method is feasible and valid.
A New Disassembly Network Graph Model and its Automatic Generation
Authors: Jin Xiao Hong , Tian Guang Dong
Published: September 2012

Disassembly process model plays an important role in the generation of disassembly sequences and evaluation of disassembly process.Based on the concept of adjacency matrix and disassembly precedence matrix, combined with the related definitions of constraint nodes, such as, actual constraint node etc. A new disassembly network graph model is introduced, which can express the constrain information between parts, the priority of the constraints and and/or logical relationship between parts. In addition, according to the storage type and VC tool, its automatic generation model is obtained.
The Muscle Activity Detection from Surface EMG Signal Using the Morphological Filter
Authors: Li Qiang , Li Bo
Published: September 2012

For the recognition of action sEMG signal, the muscle activity detection is the elementary work, and the morphological filter was explored to achieve the target in this paper. To reduce the noise interference in the collected sEMG signal, the band-pass filter and spectrum interpolation method were applied. Based on two structuring elements, the morphological filter was utilized to separate the action signal from the background signal. Then, the amplitude envelope which could indicate the muscle activity was acquired. The experimental results showed that the satisfying muscle activity detection performance could be implemented by the morphological filter.
A Grading Method for Orange Based on Computer Vision
Authors: Wu Dong Wu , Xiong Qiang , Kong Fang Fang , Pan Zhi Bin , Deng Xing
Published: September 2012

Fruit grading is an important step in postharvest processing. Based on the images of oranges, we can get those characters that describe the size and color of them. Then 16 features were used to grade the oranges. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work that used the mean value of R, G, B, H, S, I and the variance of R, G, B, H, S, I together as parameters, and graded the oranges through Bayes inference method. Experimental result shows that our method is competitive.
Optimization Method of the Transcutaneous Energy Transmission System with Given Output Power
Authors: Bai Liang Yu , Zheng Yu , Tang Hou Jun
Published: September 2012

Transcutaneous energy transmission (TET) systems are designed to deliver power from an in vitro primary power source to in vivo implantable secondary over relatively large air gaps via magnetic coupling. This paper proposes an optimization method with given output power to meet different practical application. The transmission efficiency is the objective function; primary and secondary coils are design variables; constraints are based on bifurcation phenomenon and components peak over-voltage and peak withstand current. We have used MATLAB/ SIMULINK to verify the analytical results.
Study on Quick Response Mode of Agricultural Products Logistics under E-Commerce Environment
Authors: Zhang Chan Jun
Published: September 2012

For developing demands of e-commerce on logistics response speed, the business connotation and development characters of quick response logistics were analyzed in this paper. It also put forward a time-based competition quick response mode of Agricultural Products E-commerce Logistics (APEL). On this basis, the business model on APEL was constructed taking Wuhan city circle as an object, and discussed its implementation of APEL mode and operation of business model in Wuhan city circle.
Comparison Study on the Spatial Estimation of Ji Wheat 22 Yield on the Precision Scale
Authors: Yang Yu Jian , Liu Shu Yun , Feng Wen Jie , Shang Ming Hua
Published: September 2012

Under the framework of soil-wheat system, the sampling area was selected in the Lingxian country of Shandong province, based on the DGPS localization data, a total of 849 sampling sites of Ji wheat 22 yield which was cultivated by Shandong Academy of Agricultural Science were involved in the study, combination with grid sampling and random sampling. the spatial estimation comparison study of wheat yield was developed on the precision scale, with the support of Kriging and Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) method. The main objective of the study analyzed the spatial estimation on basis of sampling sites with the help of two methods. The results showed that IDW method is more accurate on basis of the sampling sites data than Kriging method, under less than 40m interval between sites for Ji wheat 22 yield, though the major advantage of kriging in comparison with IDW is estimating weights for locations based not only on the distance between separated locations but also on the global semivariogram model fitted to the collected data. The results also indicated that the estimation accuracy depended on the threshold of sampling numbers, if the numbers are less than the threshold, the sampling density is in contact with the spatial estimation accuracy, if the numbers are more than the threshold, the density of the sampling numbers is improved, but the estimation results are not proportional to the density.
Compact Design of an UWB Antenna with Dual Band-Notched Characteristic
Authors: Zeng Wen Bo , Zhao Jia , Ke Bao Zhong , Wu Qi Qi
Published: September 2012

An ultra-wideband (UWB) printed antenna with dual band-notched characteristic is presented in this paper. The proposed antenna is composed of a semi-circular patch fed by a tapered coplanar waveguide (CPW) and an unclosed ground plane, which are printed onto the same side of a FR4 printed circuit board (PCB) with an overall size of 30 mm × 30 mm × 1.5 mm. By embedding a simple arc-shaped slot in the patch and adding a T-shaped strip on the top of the patch, two notched frequency bands for rejection of WiMAX and WLAN system can be realized. The characteristics of the proposed antenna are investigated by using the software HFSS and validated experimentally, both simulated and measured results show that the proposed antenna prototype achieves good impedance matching over an frequency band from 2.1011.40 GHz for VSWR2 with two notched bands over the frequency range of 5-5.95 GHz and 3.1-3.9 GHz. Furthermore, a relatively stable gain and suitable radiation patterns are also achieved in both lower and upper UWB frequency band.
The Research and Realization of Capacitive Current on Line Measurement Based on DSP
Authors: Wang Jian Wen , Wang Zheng Feng , Li Peng
Published: September 2012

In the paper, it proceeds in-depth research and analysis to the existing capacitance current measurement methods, and the infuse signal method is chosen to achieve capacitance current accurate measurement on this basis. The method has the advantage of measurement error small, real-time good and safe reliable.
A Simplified Power Allocation Method for Cooperative Communication Based on Internet of Things
Authors: Li Yi , Fu Xiao Mei , Guo Quan , Lu Yi
Published: September 2012

In order to combat multi-path fading across multiple protocol layers in the wireless networks effectively, cooperative diversity is developed with a virtual multi-antenna array, and spatial diversity can be achieved with the relaying. In this paper, we study an improved opportunistic relaying which could be applied to future Internet of Things. Simulation results shows it has better outage probability and spectral efficiency, and based on the model we propose a simplified power allocation method, which has close performance to the exhaustive search method. It has less calculation complexity and lower outage probability, which would be more applicable for future cooperative systems.
Experimental Design of Magnetic Properties of Ferromagnetic Material Measurement Based on Virtual Instruments
Authors: Wang Jian Zhong , Huang Lin , Feng Xiu Mei , Wang Ling Li
Published: September 2012

In the teaching of the physics experiments, the construction and application of teaching research on the virtual experiment system is a newly hot spot, which is needed to be explored in depth at all levels continuously. The core technology of virtual experiment system is the virtual instrument. Based on the specific teaching practices, this article introduces the concrete details about our experiment on Magnetic properties measurement of ferromagnetic material, which is designed and developed with the virtual instrument software LabVIEW. The preliminary research here may play an important role in the ultimate construction of a relatively integral virtual experiment series of physics.
Design and Fluent Simulation of Impeller for Axial Maglev Heart Pump
Authors: Wu Hua Chun , Wang Zi Yan , Lv Xu Jun
Published: September 2012

The axial maglev heart pump has become a global research focus and emphasis for artificial ventricular assist device, which has no mechanical contact, mechanical friction, small size and light weight, can effectively solve thrombus and hemolysis. Impeller is one of the important parts in the axial maglev heart pump, and its structure largely determines the blood pump performance. The research adopts fluid finite element analysis, and puts forward a method to design the impeller of axial heart pump, which took into account the small volume of axial blood pump. The Blades has been designed by calculating aerofoil bone line, and make simulation analysis for different thicken ways of blade by Fluent software, and make a conclusion that the blade thickened with certain rules has better characteristics in the same conditions. The result provides the guidance for design of axial maglev heart pump, and establishes theoretical basis for application of the implantable artificial heart pump.
Application of Bayesian Statistics and Markov Model in Medical Decision
Authors: Chao Jian Qian , Wang Yi Min , Xie Wen Yuan , Tian Lin , Zhang Jing Jing
Published: September 2012

Bayesian statistics is another scientific method for statistics besides classical statistics which makes use of the prior information mixed with the sample information to draw some inferences about the posterior distributions of parameters based on the Bayesian formula. The Markov process is a random one transiting from one state to another. The models based on Markov process match well to the medical clinical practice. The medical intervention measures need to be evaluated not only the clinical effect and safety, but also their cost-utility. We study the application of evaluating the cost-utility of medical intervention measures based on analysis of Bayesian statistics and Markov model hoping for providing medical decision-making reference.