bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hard and soft magnetic composites with modified magnetic properties
Authors: Ślusarek B. , Przybylski M.
Published: March 2011

The paper deals with methods of tailoring magnetic properties of soft and hard magnetic composites. Comparison of magnetic properties of injection moulding and compression moulding Nd-Fe-B magnets are presented. Magnetic properties of Nd-Fe-B bonded magnets were tailored by different ways such as: amount of resin, addition of barium ferrite, Al or Fe powders. Influence of technological parameters such as compression pressure, time and temperature of curing on magnetic parameters of Nd-Fe-B bonded magnets are presented in the paper. Magnetic properties of soft magnetic composites made of Fe, Ni, Co are presented in the paper. Influence of technological parameters such as compression pressure, time and temperature of curing on magnetic parameters of iron soft magnetic composites are presented also in the paper.
An Innovative Trading Approach for Mercury Waste Management
Authors: Shastri Yogendra , Diwekar Urmila , Mehrotra Sanjay
Published: March 2011

This work proposes an innovative approach of watershed level mercury trading for sustainable management of mercury pollution. An optimization based decision-making framework has been developed to optimize the selection of mercury treatment technologies by industries in a watershed in the presence of nonlinearity and uncertainty in technology cost models. The impact of the regulation on technology selection by industries, often ignored in existing trading literature, has been quantified. A particularly novel contribution of this framework is the consideration of health care cost as an objective. The application of the framework to the Savannah River watershed case study in US emphasizes the importance of health care cost while evaluating the benefits of trading. Nonlinearity and uncertainty in the cost models is shown to significantly affect technology selection. The ecological perspective of innovation comes from the proposal of using water body liming to mitigate mercury bioaccumulation and concerns of mercury hotspots.
A Comparison of Simultaneously Recorded Machine Drive Power and Compactometer Measurements
Authors: Meehan Christopher L. , Tehrani Faraz S.
Published: March 2011

Continuous compaction control (CCC) systems are data acquisition systems installed on compaction equipment that continuously collect real-time information about the operation and performance of the compactor. An experimental research study was conducted to examine the type of data that is recorded by CCC equipment during road sub-base compaction of “select fill” granular materials using a smooth-drum vibratory roller. A prototype roller was utilized that allowed for simultaneous real-time machine drive power and compactometer measurements, which permitted independent and simultaneous evaluation of the degree of compaction of the soil. The behavior of the recorded machine drive power and compactometer values for different lifts and with increasing compactive effort for a single lift is presented and discussed. The statistical nature of the recorded CCC data sets is explored in detail, with a focus on distribution fitting assessment techniques that are applicable for CCC data. Comparisons are also made between the simultaneously recorded machine drive power and compactometer measurements. The results and associated discussion that are presented are useful for understanding the variable nature of CCC data sets, and the observations that are made have practical implications for the creation of CCC construction specifications that are to be used to control the compaction process.
Prefrontal Cortex Activity during the Discrimination of Relative Distance
Authors: Genovesio Aldo , Tsujimoto Satoshi , Wise Steven P.
Published: March 2011

To compare with our previous findings on relative-duration discrimination, we studied prefrontal cortex activity as monkeys performed a relative-distance discrimination task. We wanted to know whether the same parts of the prefrontal cortex compare durations and distances and, if so, whether they use similar mechanisms. Two stimuli appeared sequentially on a video screen, one above a fixed reference point, the other below it by a different distance. After a delay period, the same two stimuli reappeared (as choice stimuli), and the monkeys' task was to choose the one that had appeared farther from the reference point during its initial presentation. We recorded from neurons in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (area 46) and the caudal prefrontal cortex (area 8). Although some prefrontal neurons encoded the absolute distance of a stimulus from the reference point, many more encoded relative distance. Categorical representations (“farther”) predominated over parametric ones (“how much farther”). Relative-distance coding was most often abstract, coding the farther or closer stimulus to the same degree, independent of its position on the screen. During the delay period before the choice stimuli appeared, feature-based coding supplanted order-based coding, and position-based coding—always rare—decreased to chance levels. The present results closely resembled those for a duration-discrimination task in the same cortical areas. We conclude, therefore, that these areas contribute to decisions based on both spatial and temporal information.
Sequential determination of free acidity and hydrazine in presence of hydrolysable ions
Authors: Ganesh S. , Khan Fahmida , Ahmed M. K. , Pandey S. K.
Published: March 2011

A simple method for the sequential determination of free acidity and hydrazine in presence of hydrolysable ions is developed and described. In this method, free acid is titrated with standard sodium carbonate solution after the metal ions in solutions are masked with EDTA. Once the end point for the free acid is determined at pH 3.0, an aliquot of formaldehyde is added to liberate the acid equivalent to hydrazine which is then titrated with the same standard sodium carbonate solution using an automatic titration system. The described method is simple, accurate and reproducible. This method is especially applicable to all ranges of nitric acid and heavy metal ion concentration relevant to Purex process used for nuclear fuel reprocessing. The overall recovery of nitric acid is 98.9% with 3% relative standard deviation. The major advantage of the method is that it uses sodium carbonate a primary standard as titrant and generation of corrosive analytical wastes containing oxalate or sulphate is avoided. Valuable metals like uranium and plutonium can easily be recovered from analytical waste before final disposal.
Endocytosis in the mouse oocyte and its contribution to cAMP signaling during meiotic arrest
Authors: Lowther Katie M , Nikolaev Viacheslav O , Mehlmann Lisa M
Published: March 2011

Mammalian oocytes are arrested at prophase I of meiosis until a preovulatory surge of LH stimulates them to resume meiosis. Prior to the LH surge, high levels of cAMP within the oocyte maintain meiotic arrest; this cAMP is generated in the oocyte through the activity of the constitutively active, Gs-coupled receptor, G-protein-coupled receptor 3 (GPR3) or GPR12. Activated GPRs are typically targeted for desensitization through receptor-mediated endocytosis, but a continuously high level of cAMP is needed for meiotic arrest. The aim of this study was to examine whether receptor-mediated endocytosis occurs in the mouse oocyte and whether this could affect the maintenance of meiotic arrest. We found that constitutive endocytosis occurs in the mouse oocyte. Inhibitors of receptor-mediated endocytosis, monodansylcadaverine and dynasore, inhibited the formation of early endosomes and completely inhibited spontaneous meiotic resumption. A red fluorescent protein-tagged GPR3 localized in the plasma membrane and within early endosomes in the oocyte, demonstrating that GPR3 is endocytosed. However, overexpression of G-protein receptor kinase 2 and β-arrestin-2 had only a modest effect on stimulating meiotic resumption, suggesting that these proteins do not play a major role in GPR3 endocytosis. Inhibition of endocytosis elevated cAMP levels within oocytes, suggesting that there is an accumulation of GPR3 at the plasma membrane. These results show that endocytosis occurs in the oocyte, leading to a decrease in cAMP production, and suggest that there is a balance between cAMP production and degradation in the arrested oocyte that maintains cAMP levels at an appropriate level during the maintenance of meiotic arrest.
Determination Method for Xylidines in Workplace Air
Authors: Takeuchi Akito , Yamamoto Shinobu , Hendricks Warren , Nishimura Yasuki , Imanaka Tsutoshi , Kaifuku Yuichiro , Sakui Norihiro , Natsumeda Shuichiro , Ota Hirokazu , Yamada Shu , Kurotani Ichiro , Sumino Kimiaki , Kanno Seiichiro
Published: March 2011

Determination Method for Xylidines in Workplace Air: Akito Takeuchi, et al. Osaka Occupational Health Service Center, Japan Industrial Safety and Health Association—

Objectives

The purpose of this research was to develop a determination method for xylidines (XLDs) in workplace air for risk assessment.

Methods

The characteristics of the proposed method, such as recovery, detection limit, reproducibility, and storage stability of the samples were examined.

Results

An air sampler cassette containing two sulfuric acid‐treated glass iber ilters was chosen as the sampler. The XLDs were extracted from the sampler filters, derivatized with heptafluorobutyric anhydride, and then analyzed by a gas chromatograph equipped with a mass spectrometer. The average recoveries of XLDs from the spiked sampler were 83– 101% for personal exposure monitoring. The recovery after 5 days of storage in a refrigerator exceeded 90%. The overall limit of quantitation (LOQ) was 0.600 µg/ sample. The relative standard deviation, which represents the overall reproducibility defined as precision, was 0.8–10.3%.

Conclusions

The proposed method enables 4‐hour personal exposure monitoring of XLDs at concentrations equaling 0.001–2 times the threshold limit value‐time‐weighted average (TLV‐TWA: 0.5 ppm) adopted by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, and is useful for estimating worker exposure to XLDs.
Early-age properties of concrete: overview of fundamental concepts and state-of-the-art research
Authors: Nehdi Moncef , Soliman Ahmed M
Published: March 2011

The long-term performance of concrete structures is affected to a large extent by the properties and behaviour of concrete at early age. However, the fundamental mechanisms affecting the early-age behaviour of concrete have not yet been fully understood. This is due to the various highly interrelated factors influencing it, and the complexity of testing techniques needed for its investigation. With modern developments in concrete technology, it has become essential to evaluate the influence of these interrelated factors and their implications for the service life of concrete structures. Thus, a more fundamental approach for investigating the early-age behaviour of concrete, along with more reliable testing techniques, is required. This paper provides a critical overview of research on the mechanisms that affect the properties of concrete and its performance at early age. It provides useful, concise and coherent information on the behaviour of concrete at early age, which should enhance the understanding of the implications of such behaviour on the service life performance of concrete structures.
Features of Chronic Active Epstein-Barr virus Infection and Related Human Diseases
Authors: Okano Motohiko
Published: March 2011

A chronic undefined illness characterized by infectious mononucleosis (IM)-like symptoms and signs, possibly
associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, designated as so-called chronic active EBV infection (CAEBV), is
focused and discussed in this mini-review. Patients with CAEBV often develop T cell lymphoproliferative disorder
(LPD)/lymphoma or NK cell LPD/lymphoma. Unique manifestations with generally poor prognosis of the disease prompt
us to understand in particular the entity, diagnosis and treatment.
The Entrepreneurial Ladder in Transition and Non-Transition Economies
Authors: van der Zwan Peter , Verheul Ingrid , Thurik Roy
Published: March 2011

This paper compares (former) transition and non-transition economies in Europe and Asia with respect to the opportunities available to achieve entrepreneurial progress. In addition, the differential impacts of three perceived environmental barriers to new venture creation are investigated. Entrepreneurial progress is measured using five levels of incremental entrepreneurial involvement. Data from the 2009 “Flash Eurobarometer Survey on Entrepreneurship, No. 283” by the European Commission, which covers all 27 EU Member States, five other European countries, China, Japan, South Korea, and the U.S., are used. China is found to have a forward position during the early stages of entrepreneurial progress, which contrasts with a lack of early-stage entrepreneurial potential in Japan and South Korea. However, converting nascent activities into a business start-up seems to be the most difficult in China and the U.S. Furthermore, we find that perceived environmental constraints hinder entrepreneurial progress most in (former) European transition countries.
Experimental investigation and CFD analysis of a air cooled condenser heat pipe
Authors: Annamalai Selvan , Ramalingam Velraj
Published: March 2011

In the present work a heat pipe of one meter length and 0.031m outer diameter
was constructed and the experiments are conducted to determine the surface
and vapour temperature at steady and transient conditions for two different
input power in the evaporator section and cooling the condenser section by
air. A CFD analysis was also carried and the results under steady state
conditions are compared with the results obtained from the experiments and
reported in this paper.
Increased GABAergic Output in the Ventromedial Hypothalamus Contributes to Impaired Hypoglycemic Counterregulation in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Chan Owen , Paranjape Sachin , Czyzyk Daniel , Horblitt Adam , Zhu Wanling , Ding Yuyan , Fan Xiaoning , Seashore Margretta , Sherwin Robert
Published: March 2011

OBJECTIVE

Impaired glucose counterregulation during hypoglycemia is well documented in patients with type 1 diabetes; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying this defect remain uncertain. We reported that the inhibitory neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), in a crucial glucose-sensing region within the brain, the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH), plays an important role in modulating the magnitude of the glucagon and epinephrine responses to hypoglycemia and investigated whether VMH GABAergic tone is altered in diabetes and therefore might contribute to defective counterregulatory responses.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used immunoblots to measure GAD65 protein (a rate-limiting enzyme in GABA synthesis) and microdialysis to measure extracellular GABA levels in the VMH of two diabetic rat models, the diabetic BB rat and the streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rat, and compared them with nondiabetic controls.

RESULTS

Both diabetic rat models exhibited an ~50% increase in GAD65 protein as well as a twofold increase in VMH GABA levels compared with controls under baseline conditions. Moreover, during hypoglycemia, VMH GABA levels did not change in the diabetic animals, whereas they significantly declined in nondiabetic animals. As expected, glucagon responses were absent and epinephrine responses were attenuated in diabetic rats compared with their nondiabetic control counterparts. The defective counterregulatory response in STZ-diabetic animals was restored to normal with either local blockade of GABAA receptors or knockdown of GAD65 in the VMH.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that increased VMH GABAergic inhibition is an important contributor to the absent glucagon response to hypoglycemia and the development of counterregulatory failure in type 1 diabetes.
Bispectral Index Monitoring (BIS) as a Guide for Intubation Without Neuromuscular Blockade in Office‐Based Pediatric General Anesthesia: A Retrospective Evaluation
Authors: Messieha Zakaria S , Guirguis Samuel , Hanna Sherine
Published: March 2011

The Bispectral Index System is a useful guide for timing of adequate intubation conditions in office‐based pediatric general anesthesia without neuromuscular blockade. As the number of cases in the office‐based setting increase, many clinicians opt to intubate patients without neuromuscular blockade to avoid airway complications associated with skeletal muscle relaxation. Conventionally, this technique is conducted using the traditional monitoring criteria of vital signs, end‐tidal inhalation agents, as well as anesthesiologist timing and knowledge of the pharmacodynamics of the anesthetic agent to help determine the proper depth of anesthesia for adequate intubating conditions. This study retrospectively assesses the use of the Bispectral Index System (BIS) as a guide for timing of nonparalytic tracheal intubation in pediatric office‐based general anesthesia. Anesthetic records for 168 children, American Society of Anesthesiology physical status I and II, and ranging in age from 18 months to 17 years were retrospectively analyzed. Intubation outcomes were based on 6 preset criteria to reflect the adequacy of the technique. The mean BIS value during the time of intubation was 34.7. There were no complications encountered. A BIS mean value of 34.7 provided adequate intubation conditions without muscle relaxation in office‐based pediatric anesthesia without complications.
Inhabiting the solar system
Authors: Sherwood Brent
Published: March 2011

The new field of space architecture is introduced. Defined as the “theory and practice of designing and building inhabited environments in outer space,” the field synthesizes human space flight systems engineering subjects with the long tradition of making environments that support human living, work, and aspiration. The scope of the field is outlined, and its three principal domains differentiated. The current state of the art is described in terms of executed projects. Foreseeable options for 21st century developments in human space flight provide a framework to tease out potential space architecture opportunities for the next century.
3D Shape description algorithms applied to the problem of model retrieval
Authors: Frejlichowski Dariusz
Published: March 2011

Interest in three-dimensional shape retrieval is currently increasing, driven by two important reasons — the rapid increase of the amount of multimedia data and a noticeable advance in computer hardware and software during recent years. Presently, it is possible to retrieve complicated 3D models in a reasonable span of time thanks to the use of sophisticated 3D shape description algorithms, a feat which was unthinkable a few years ago. The main issue is the efficiency of the approaches, which must work both quickly and reliably. Hence, in this paper four 3D shape description algorithms — Extended Gaussian Image, Shape Distributions, Shape Histograms and Light Field Descriptor — were experimentally compared in order to determine which was most effective. As it turned out, the latter obtained the best retrieval result.
Development and evaluation of fast-dissolving tablets of meloxicam-β-cyclodextrin complex prepared by direct compression
Authors: Obaidat Aiman , Obaidat Rana
Published: March 2011

Development and evaluation of fast-dissolving tablets of meloxicam-β-cyclodextrin complex prepared by direct compression

The aim of this study was to prepare fast-dissolving tablets of meloxicam after its complexation with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and to investigate the effect of using different superdisintegrants on the disintegration and release of meloxicam from the tablets. A complex of meloxicam with β-CD was prepared by spray drying and then compressed in the form of tablets utilizing the direct compression technique. Three superdisintegrants were employed at various levels - sodium starch glycolate, croscarmellose sodium, and crospovidone. Co-spray dried micro-crystalline cellulose and mannitol (Avicel HFE-102) were used as diluents in the tablets. Prior to compression, the pre-compression parameters showed satisfactory flow properties. Post-compression parameters showed that all tablet formulations had acceptable mechanical properties. Wetting and disintegration times were prolonged by increasing the level of sodium starch glycolate in the tablets. This was attributed to the formation of a viscous gel layer around the tablets by sodium starch glycolate whereas this effect was not observed with croscarmellose sodium and crospovidone. Dissolution studies showed fast release of meloxicam except in tablets containing a high level of sodium starch glycolate. Complexation of meloxicam with β-CD significantly improved the solubility of the drug and improved the mechanical properties of tablets produced by direct compression.
Clinical Response of Metastatic Breast Cancer to Multi-targeted Therapeutic Approach: A Single Case Report
Authors: Meiners Christian
Published: March 2011

The present article describes the ongoing (partial) remission of a female patient (41 years old) from estrogen receptor (ER)-positive/progesterone receptor (PR)-negative metastatic breast cancer in response to a combination treatment directed towards the revitalization of the mitochondrial respiratory chain (oxidative phosphorylation), the suppression of NF-kappaB as a factor triggering the inflammatory response, and chemotherapy with capecitabine. The reduction of tumor mass was evidenced by a continuing decline of CA15-3 and CEA tumor marker serum levels and 18FDG-PET-CT plus magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. It is concluded that such combination treatment might be a useful option for treating already formed metastases and for providing protection against the formation of metastases in ER positive breast cancer. The findings need to be corroborated by clinical trials. Whether similar results can be expected for other malignant tumor phenotypes relying on glycolysis as the main energy source remains to be elucidated.
Invasion by Exotic Earthworms Alters Biodiversity and Communities of Litter- and Soil-dwelling Oribatid Mites
Authors: Burke Jordan L. , Maerz John C. , Milanovich Joseph R. , Fisk Melany C. , Gandhi Kamal J.K.
Published: March 2011

Exotic earthworms are drivers of biotic communities in invaded North American forest stands. Here we used ecologically important oribatid mite (Arachnida: Acari) communities, as model organisms to study the responses of litter- and soil-dwelling microarthropod communities to exotic earthworm invasion in a northern temperate forest. Litter- and soil-dwelling mites were sampled in 2008–2009 from forest areas: (1) with no earthworms; (2) those with epigeic and endogeic species, including Lumbricus rubellus Hoffmeister; and (3) those with epigeic, endogeic, and anecic earthworms including L. terrestris L. Species richness and diversity of litter- and soil-dwelling (0–2 cm soil depth) oribatid mites was 1–2 times higher in sites without earthworms than in sites with worms. Similarly, litter-dwelling oribatid mites were between 72 and 1,210 times more abundant in earthworm-free sites than in sites with worms. Among earthworm invaded sites, abundance of litter-dwelling oribatid mites in sites without the anecic L. terrestris was twice as high in May and 28 times higher in October, compared to sites with L. terrestris. Species richness, diversity, and abundance of oribatid mites were greater in litter-layers than in the soil-layers that showed a varied response to earthworm invasion. Species compositions of both litter- and soil-dwelling oribatid mite communities of forests with no earthworms were markedly different from those with earthworms. We conclude that exotic earthworm invasions are associated with significant declines of species diversity, numbers, and compositional shifts in litter- and soil-inhabiting communities. These faunal shifts may contribute to earthworm effects on soil processes and food web dynamics in historically earthworm-free, northern temperate forests.
Chitin-based Materials in Tissue Engineering: Applications in Soft Tissue and Epithelial Organ
Authors: Yang Tsung-Lin
Published: March 2011

Chitin-based materials and their derivatives are receiving increased attention in tissue engineering because of their unique and appealing biological properties. In this review, we summarize the biomedical potential of chitin-based materials, specifically focusing on chitosan, in tissue engineering approaches for epithelial and soft tissues. Both types of tissues play an important role in supporting anatomical structures and physiological functions. Because of the attractive features of chitin-based materials, many characteristics beneficial to tissue regeneration including the preservation of cellular phenotype, binding and enhancement of bioactive factors, control of gene expression, and synthesis and deposition of tissue-specific extracellular matrix are well-regulated by chitin-based scaffolds. These scaffolds can be used in repairing body surface linings, reconstructing tissue structures, regenerating connective tissue, and supporting nerve and vascular growth and connection. The novel use of these scaffolds in promoting the regeneration of various tissues originating from the epithelium and soft tissue demonstrates that these chitin-based materials have versatile properties and functionality and serve as promising substrates for a great number of future applications.
Fungicidal Properties of the Essential Oil of Hesperozygis marifolia on Aspergillus flavus Link
Authors: González-Chávez Marco Martín , Cárdenas-Ortega Norma Cecilia , Méndez-Ramos Cristina Andrea , Pérez-Gutiérrez Salud
Published: March 2011

The chemical composition of the essential oil from Hesperozygis marifolia was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and fourteen compounds were identified. (R)-pulegone (40.75%), isomenthone (30.34%) and menthone (4.46%) were found to be the main components of the oil. The essential oil at a concentration of 2.0 mg/mL and (R)-pulegone at concentration of 0.8 mg/mL completely inhibited the growth of Aspergillus flavus Link. The fungicidal effects of this essential oil warrant further research into its potential for commercial use.
Carvedilol Attenuates Inflammatory-Mediated Cardiotoxicity in Daunorubicin-Induced Rats
Authors: Sari Flori R. , Arozal Wawaimuli , Watanabe Kenichi , Harima Meilei , Veeravedu Punniyakoti T. , Thandavarayan Rajarajan A. , Suzuki Kenji , Arumugam Somasundaram , Soetikno Vivian , Kodama Makoto
Published: March 2011

Cardiotoxicity, which results from intense cardiac oxidative stress and inflammation, is the main limiting factor of the anthracyclines. Carvedilol, a beta blocker that is used as a multifunctional neurohormonal antagonist, has been shown to act not only as an anti-oxidant, but also as an anti-inflammatory drug. This study was designed to evaluate whether carvedilol exerts a protective role against inflammation-mediated cardiotoxicity in the daunorubicin (DNR)-induced rats. Carvedilol was administered orally to the rats every day for 6 weeks at a cumulative dose of 9 mg/kg body weight DNR. DNR significantly induced cardiac damage and worsened cardiac function as well as increased cardiac mast cell density, elevating the myocardial protein and mRNA expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, inter-cellular adhesion molecule-1, nuclear factor kappa-B, cyclooxygenase-2, monocyte chemotactic protein -1 and interleukin -6 compared to that in the control group. Cotreatment with carvedilol significantly attenuated the myocardial protein and mRNA expression levels of these inflammatory markers, decreased cardiac mast cell density, improved histological cardiac damage and cardiac functions. In conclusion, inflammation plays a significant role in DNR-induced cardiotoxicity, and carvedilol contributes to cardioprotection against inflammation-mediated cardiotoxicity in DNR-induced rats through its anti-inflammatory mechanism.
Peatlands as Filters for Polluted Mine Water?—A Case Study from an Uranium-Contaminated Karst System in South Africa—Part I: Hydrogeological Setting and U Fluxes
Authors: Winde Frank , Erasmus Ewald
Published: March 2011

Located downstream of goldfields of the Witwatersrand basin, the Gerhard Minnebron (GMB) Eye—as major water source for downstream community of some 300,000 people—may be impacted on by mining-related water pollution especially with uranium (U). Containing up to 5 m-thick deposits of peat that is frequently reported to act as a filter for U and other heavy metals, this paper is the first part of a series that aims to quantify the ability of the GMB peatland to act as buffer against current and future U pollution. In a first step, this paper outlines the geohydrological conditions and discusses how deep–level gold mining impacted on the dolomitic aquifers. Subsequently, the potential influx of U into the wetland is estimated and associated sources and pathways analyzed. Finally, a model is proposed explaining the significant differences in degree and dynamics of U observed within a single groundwater compartment.
Vingt groupes industriels français et le redéploiement
Authors: Bertrand Hugues , Mansuy Cyrille , Norotte Michel
Published: March 2011

Twenty Major French Corporations and Redeployment,

by Hugues Bertrand, Cyrille Mansuy and Michel Norotte.

Economic restrictions, which have become tighter since 1974, have had a definite influence on corporate strategy. The narrowing of prospects has thus stimulated, even provoked what can justifiably be called the redeployment of forces of these corporations.

These same corporations, after a period of formation and diversification, now seem preoccupied with general restructuration at all levels. As seen from both the quantitative and qualitative aspects (despite the inherent risks in any interpretation), the study of twenty of the most powerful French corporations affords a more accurate look at the means of redeployment.

First is redeployment of sectors, showing how the corporations gave up their most solid holdings in order to concentrate on consolidating and broadening their activity in the most profitable sectors. Second is geographic redeployment aimed at greater penetration and implantation in foreign countries, especially in the developed nations. Lastly, a more reasonable management of the labor force considering the numerous problems due to overstaffing. At stake in these great maneuvers: the survival of a limited number of corporations in each industrial sector capable of holding on to particularly solid production and trade activities at the international level.
L'apport du monétarisme à l'analyse et à la politique économiques
Authors: Laffargue Jean-Pierre
Published: March 2011

L'apport du monétarisme à l'analyse et la politique

économique,

par Jean-Pierre Laffargue.

Le monétarisme s'est d'abord développé aux Etats-Unis, pays où la conjoncture est peu dépendante de celle du reste du monde et a élaboré son analyse dans le cadre théorique d'une économie fermée. Sa démarche est essentiellement inductive. Ses études empiriques concluent que les fluctuations de l'offre de monnaie sont une cause essentielle de celles de l'activité économique et que l'augmentation du taux d'expansion monétaire a un effet positif mais transitoire sur le volume de la production et de l'emploi, avant de se traduire par un simple accroissement de l'inflation. Une interprétation théorique simple de ces résultats est possible à partir d'une fonction de demande de monnaie, stable en longue période, et d'une équation de Phillips. Enfin, le monétarisme conclut que la politique économique doit surveiller et contrôler l'évolution de la masse monétaire, ou même assurer une croissance de celle-ci à un taux constant, tout en évitant d'accorder trop d'importance aux mouvements des taux d'intérêt. Les Etats-Unis d'après 1 979 nous donnent une expérience monétariste récente riche d'enseignements.

Beaucoup d'économistes se sont interrogés sur la validité de ce monétarisme (développé par Friedman) pour des économies très ouvertes sur l'extérieur. En changes fixes tous sont d'accord pour admettre que dans le long terme les autorités d'un pays de petite taille n'ont aucun contrôle sur sa masse monétaire (en l'absence de dévaluation). Certains monétaristes ont prétendu qu'il en était de même dans le très court terme, mais cette opinion semble en contradiction avec les résultats des études empiriques. Pour un petit pays, la validité du monétarisme de Friedman serait un peu affaiblie mais resterait quand même largement valide. En changes flexibles, presque tous les économistes reconnaissent que les autorités d'un tel pays peuvent contrôler sa masse monétaire. Certains monétaristes ont proposé d'expliquer les fluctuations du taux de conversion entre deux devises à partir de celles de leurs offres respectives. Les vérifications empiriques ont cependant montré que cette explication était insuffisante et, depuis, elle a fusionné avec plusieurs autres, perdant ainsi sa spécificité. Ces analyses sont cette fois illustrées par l'expérience britannique d'après 1949.
Les échanges invisibles : éléments pour l'analyse et la prévision à partir des comptes nationaux
Authors: Ewenczyk Hélène , Régniez Jacques
Published: March 2011

Les échanges invisibles : éléments pour l'analyse et la prévision à partir des comptes nationaux, par Hélène Ewenczyk et Jacques Régniez.

Les échanges invisibles (échanges de services, flux internationaux de revenus, consommation des ménages hors de leur pays de résidence) prennent une importance croissante dans les échanges extérieurs de la France. Leur prise en compte dans un modèle macroéconomique est une nécessité de moins en moins discutée. La Comptabilité nationale donne matière à une description complète et homogène des échanges extérieures dans le cadre comptable ad hoc qu'est le compte du Reste du monde. L'article d'Hélène Ewenczyk et Jacques Régniez présente des relations économétriques relatives aux échanges invisibles, destinées à intervenir dans le modèle Copain (modèle macroéconométrique de pas annuel utilisé à la Direction de la Prévision pour l'étude de variantes de politique économique). Ces relations concernent successivement les trois grands types d'échanges invisibles.

En ce qui concerne les échanges de services, exportations et importations en volume sont traitées séparément pour les « services rendus aux entreprises » d'une part, les « services de transport » d'autre part. Les variables explicatives qui interviennent sont essentiellement des grandeurs relatives aux échanges de marchandises (échanges dits « commerciaux») qui ont fait l'objet d'une présentation dans le numéro 50 d'Economie et Prévision. Les opérations de répartition et les relations qui les décrivent sont très diverses. Ces dernières présentent toutefois le point commun de faire intervenir des variables explicatives liées aux évolutions économiques intérieures. Enfin, l'analyse de la consommation des ménages hors de leur pays de résidence fait apparaître les déplacements internationaux des ménages comme un bien de consommation courante, doté d'une élasticité revenu unitaire.
Déséquilibre et modèles macroéconomiques
Authors: Bureau Dominique , Miqueu Didier , Norotte Michel
Published: March 2011

Disequilibrium theory and macroeconomic models, by Dominique Bureau, Didier Miqueu, Michel Norotte.

This paper is devoted to studying macroeconometric models in relation with recent developments of the fixed-price equilibria theory, in an attempt to find microeconomic foundations to macro-models. The fixed-price (or "disequilibriums") approach proved to be well adapted for analysing quantity equilibria and real dynamics of macro-models, but remained of little help as regards the coherence of a few econometric equation in such fields as prices, tensions on output capacities, or wages through the Phillips curve.
A PARETO MULTI-OBJECTIVE OPTIMIZATION APPROACH FOR SOLVING TIME-COST-QUALITY TRADEOFF PROBLEMS
Authors: Diao Xundi , Li Heng , Zeng Saixing , Tam Vivian Wy , Guo Hongling
Published: March 2011

Speeding up a project's duration will definitely increase the cost and decrease the quality. The previous literatures were mainly related to project planning and controlling which mainly focus on cost-time tradeoff. However, limited researches have been referred to project quality based on mathematical methodologies. This paper proposes a tradeoff problem on time-cost-quality performance. A computer-based Pareto multi-objective optimization approach is utilized for solving the tradeoff problems. The approach can help searching near the reality Pareto-optimal set while not receiving any information on the stakeholders’ preference for time, cost and quality. Based on the developed approach, decision-making can become easy according to the sorted non-dominated solutions and project preferences.
CONSISTENCY CHECKING OF UML BUSINESS MODEL
Authors: Vasilecas Olegas , Dubauskaitė Rūta , Rupnik Rok
Published: March 2011

Unified modelling language (UML) is often used in practice for modelling business system (BS) by various aspects. UML model of business system consists of different aspect models and their usage for information system (IS) design is related with inconsistency problem. It arises because ambiguous or even contradictory information are provided in different aspect models. The paper presents approach in ensuring UML model consistency. Several examples of consistency rules are included to the paper to illustrate how approach is working. Developed prototype of suggested approach is applied in a domain of enterprise manufacturing windows and doors. Obtained results are discussed.
MOTOR BIOFUEL-POWERED CHP PLANTS—A STEP TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL LITHUANIA
Authors: Raslavičius Laurencas , Strakšas Anicetas
Published: March 2011

This paper focuses on the benefits that can be attained from the correct option of small-scale combined heat and power plant (CHP) relative to fuel availability and sphere of application. The analysis serves as a means of highlighting some of the owners of large-scale farms as well as holders of industrial greenhouses that influence the penetration of small-scale cogeneration plants running on bio-based liquid fuels. The identification of the main influencing factors and their weight is the first step towards the implementation of a more coherent strategy, if the EC (European Commission) and national energy authorities wish for new small-scale cogeneration technologies to have a future in the context of sustainable development of rural Lithuania. Against this background, this paper aims at presenting the technical, environmental and economic aspects of the possibilities of utilizing biodiesel, biodiesel-conventional diesel blends and rapeseed oil in combined heat and power production as an issue for further discussions regarding the formative breakthrough attitude towards a possible path of country's sustainable development.
L'évolution disciplinaire des sciences de l'information : des technologies à l'ingénierie des usages
Authors: Claverie Bernard , Fouillat Pascal
Published: March 2011

Résumé L’innovation technologique s’inscrit dans le mouvement historique d’une complexification des prolongements artificiels de la main et du cerveau humains. C’est en effet pour aider, suppléer ou augmenter ses capacités d’action et de pensée que l’Homme a élaboré des machines dont les développements les plus actuels s’inscrivent dans ceux de l’électronique moderne. Celle-ci a donné naissance au concept de pervasion, c’est-à-dire de diffusion des composants dans l’ensemble de l’environnement humain, pour une transparence des interfaces de plus en plus manifeste, laissant l’usager oublier qu’il est systématiquement inclus dans un système anthropotechnique permanent. Cette inscription psycho-technique se caractérise par une délégation à des composants de parties de l’action ou de la cognition, remettant en actualité une conception connexionniste de la pensée augmentée. L’article fait le point sur de nombreux concepts tels que le machinisme, rapproche la démarche informatique d’un cognitivisme naturel et met en perspective la démarche électronique d’un connexionnisme instrumental, et présente la position des auteurs par rapport à cette nouvelle révolution technologique de la pervasion. Il développe leur conception d’une superposition successive des disciplines technologiques, complémentaires dans l’émergence de la pluridisciplinarité et de la nécessaire prise en compte des contraintes cognitives dans une véritable transdisciplinarité des usages des technologies actuelles.
Pour une stylistique du « taxème » dans le débat politique télévisé : Analyse de quelques réseaux interactionnels signifiants
Authors: Rouveyrol Laurent
Published: March 2011

Cette étude a pour objet d’illustrer et d’analyser les différentes extensions que peuvent prendre dans un corpus de discours politique télévisé anglais les taxèmes ou actes taxémiques, et d’en dégager certaines caractéristiques. Ces énoncés particuliers sont l’indice de positionnements interpersonnels hiérarchisés, subis ou initiés au cours de l’interaction. Nous partirons du postulat que seule une approche stylistique permettant de créer un modèle d’analyse cohérent conçu pour prendre en compte les caractéristiques pragmatiques et situationnelles du genre discursif étudié parvient à rendre compte efficacement du phénomène dans sa dynamique hétérogène.
Dual Oxidase 1 Induced by Th2 Cytokines Promotes STAT6 Phosphorylation via Oxidative Inactivation of Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B in Human Epidermal Keratinocytes
Authors: Hirakawa Satoshi , Saito Rumiko , Ohara Hiroshi , Okuyama Ryuhei , Aiba Setsuya
Published: March 2011

Although hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is better known for its cytotoxic effects, in recent years it has been shown to play a crucial role in eukaryotic signal transduction. In respiratory tract epithelial cells, the dual oxidase (DUOX) proteins 1 and 2 has been identified as the cellular source of H2O2. However, the expression of DUOX1 or DUOX2 has not yet been examined in keratinocytes. In this study, using a DNA microarray, we demonstrated that, of the seven NOX/DUOX family members in normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK), IL-4/IL-13 treatment augments the expression of only DUOX1 mRNA. We next confirmed the IL-4/IL-13 induction of DUOX1 in NHEK at the mRNA and protein level using quantitative real-time PCR and Western blotting, respectively. In addition, we demonstrated that this augmented DUOX1 expression was accompanied by increased H2O2 production, which was significantly suppressed both by diphenyleneiodonium, an inhibitor of NADPH oxidase, and by small interfering RNA against DUOX1. Finally, we demonstrated that the increased expression of DUOX1 in IL-4/IL-13–treated NHEK augments STAT6 phosphorylation via oxidative inactivation of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B. These results revealed a novel role of IL-4/IL-13–induced DUOX1 expression in making a positive feedback loop for IL-4/IL-13 signaling in keratinocytes.
Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor and CD74 Regulate Macrophage Chemotactic Responses via MAPK and Rho GTPase
Authors: Fan Huapeng , Hall Pam , Santos Leilani L. , Gregory Julia L. , Fingerle-Rowson Gunter , Bucala Richard , Morand Eric F. , Hickey Michael J.
Published: March 2011

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) promotes leukocyte recruitment to sites of inflammation. However, whether this stems from a direct effect on leukocyte migration is unknown. Furthermore, the role of the MIF-binding protein CD74 in this response has not been investigated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the contributions of MIF and CD74 to chemokine-induced macrophage recruitment. Intravital microscopy studies demonstrated that CCL2-induced leukocyte adhesion and transmigration were reduced in MIF−/− and CD74−/− mice. MIF−/− and CD74−/− macrophages also exhibited reduced chemotaxis in vitro, although CD74−/− macrophages showed increased chemokinesis. Reduced CCL2-induced migration was associated with attenuated MAPK phosphorylation, RhoA GTPase activity, and actin polymerization in MIF−/− and CD74−/− macrophages. Furthermore, in MIF−/− macrophages, MAPK phosphatase-1 was expressed at elevated levels, providing a potential mechanism for the reduction in MAPK phosphorylation in MIF-deficient cells. No increase in MAPK phosphatase-1 expression was observed in CD74−/− macrophages. In in vivo experiments assessing the link between MIF and CD74, combined administration of MIF and CCL2 increased leukocyte adhesion in both MIF−/− and CD74−/− mice, showing that CD74 was not required for this MIF-induced response. Additionally, although leukocyte recruitment induced by administration of MIF alone was reduced in CD74−/− mice, consistent with a role for CD74 in leukocyte recruitment induced by MIF, MIF-treated CD74−/− mice displayed residual leukocyte recruitment. These data demonstrate that MIF and CD74 play previously unappreciated roles in CCL2-induced macrophage adhesion and migration, and they indicate that MIF and CD74 mediate this effect via both common and independent mechanisms.
Nucleotide-Binding Oligomerization Domain 1 Mediates Recognition of Clostridium difficile and Induces Neutrophil Recruitment and Protection against the Pathogen
Authors: Hasegawa Mizuho , Yamazaki Takashi , Kamada Nobuhiko , Tawaratsumida Kazuki , Kim Yun-Gi , Núñez Gabriel , Inohara Naohiro
Published: March 2011

Clostridium difficile is a Gram-positive obligate anaerobic pathogen that causes pseudomembranous colitis in antibiotics-treated individuals. However, host immune protective mechanisms against C. difficile are largely unknown. In this study, we show that C. difficile possesses potent stimulatory activity for nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 1 (Nod1), an intracellular pattern recognition molecule that senses bacterial peptidoglycan-related molecules. Nod1−/−, but not Nod2−/−, mice exhibited increased lethality in response to C. difficile intestinal infection despite comparable levels of intestinal damage and epithelial permeability in Nod1−/− and control mice. The enhanced lethality was accompanied by impaired C. difficile clearance, increased bacterial translocation, and elevated levels of endotoxin and IL-1β in the serum of Nod1−/− mice. Histological and flow cytometric analyses revealed that Nod1−/− mice had defective recruitment of neutrophils, but not macrophages, to the intestine after C. difficile infection. The reduced recruitment of neutrophils correlated with impaired production of CXCL1, but not CCL2, XCL1, and other cytokines/chemokines, in infected Nod1−/− mice. The influx of neutrophils also was reduced when C. difficile was administered i.p., suggesting that Nod1 directly recognizes C. difficile to induce the recruitment of neutrophils to the infected site. These results indicate that Nod1 regulates host susceptibility to C. difficile and suggest that Nod1-mediated neutrophil recruitment is an important immune response against the enteric pathogen.