bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Gas Transmission Networks under Energetic and Environmental Considerations
Authors: Rodriguez Guillermo Hernandez , Pibouleau Luc Guy , Pantel Catherine Azzaro , Domenech Serge
Published: September 2010

The transport of large quantities of natural gas (NG) is carried out by pipeline network systems across long distances. Pipeline network systems include one or several compressor stations which compensate for pressure drops. A typical network today might consist of thousands of pipes, dozens of stations, and many other devices, such as valves and regulators. Inside each station, there can be several groups of compressor units of various vintages that were installed as the capacity of the system expanded. The compressor stations typically consume about 3 to 5% of the transported gas. It is estimated that the global optimization of operations can save considerably the fuel consumed by the stations. Hence, the problem of minimizing fuel cost is of great importance. This study presents a mathematical formulation for NG transport through pipelines and compressors by considering the mass and energy balance equations on the basic elements of a didactic network from the literature. First, a deterministic optimization procedure is implemented. The objective of this formulation is the fuel minimization problem in the compressor stations for a fixed gas mass flow delivery. A second example is devoted to the simultaneous consideration of gas mass flow delivery maximization and fuel consumption minimization. In that case, two procedures are compared: a genetic algorithm coupled with a Newton-Raphson procedure and the scalarization method of ?-constraint. In both monobjective and biobjective cases, a study of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions is carried out. The Pareto front deduced from the biobjective optimization can be used either for identifying the minimum and maximum network capacity in terms of CO2 emissions and mass flow delivery or for a given mass flow delivery for determining the minimal CO2 emissions from an appropriate operating of the compressor stations.
Is Today's Unemployment Structural?
Authors: DeLong J. Bradford
Published: September 2010

Many advocate an end to stimulus and view unemployment as structural. J. Bradford DeLong of UC Berkeley challenges that view.
Trigonella foenum graecum Prevents Pathological Exacerbation by Toxic Insults Following Chronic Restraint Stress in Mice Skin
Authors: Ali Farrah , Sultana Sarwat
Published: September 2010

The immune system plays a pivotal role in the development of pathological conditions. Any change in the immune system can have a profound effect on the differential toxic responses. In this study, the effect of chronic restraint stressed mice skin treated with trichloroethylene (TCE) (200 µL of 80% v/v) and subsequently exposed to UVB (0.42 J/m2/s) has been evaluated. The inflammatory and oxidative damage so caused were restored by application of Trigonella foenum graecum.As compared to the non stressed toxicant groups, all the antioxidant enzymes following restraint stress (RS)  glutathione reductase (GR) (p<0.001), glutathione-s-transferase (GST) (p<0.001), glutathione peroxidase GPx (p<0.001), glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) (p<0.001), and quinone reductase (QR) (p<0.001), superoxide dismutase (SODs) (p<0.001) and XO (p<0.001)  showed a significant decrease. Lipid peroxidation increased significantly (p<0.001) in the RS group treated with TCE and UVB as compared with the non-stressed mice. Myeloperoxidase showed a significant decrease (p<0.001) in the stressed mice as compared to the non stressed toxicant groups where it increased significantly (p<0.001), suggesting suppressed non-specific immune response. Ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) increased significantly (p<0.001) in the stressed groups. Trigonella was successful in ameliorating this oxidative stress (OS), inflammation (MPO) and ODC, suggesting a central role of oxidants in the pathology of stressed mice.
Kinetic and Thermodynamic Characteristics of Seaweed Dried in the Convective Air Drier
Authors: Sarbatly Rosalam , Wong Tracy , Bono Awang , Krishnaiah Duduku
Published: September 2010

This study reveals the drying kinetics, specific heat and enthalpy of seaweed dried in the convective air drier. Comparison between convective hot air and sun drying process was also studied. At 50°C air temperature with 23.45 percent relative humidity and 1.55 ms-1air flow rate, it has been found that the moisture removal required 4 hours to reach moisture content of 19.66 percent wet basis with its drying rate at 0.28 x 10-3 kg water h-1. The data of drying rate showed that the drying process took place in the falling rate period. The specific heat and initial enthalpy were found to be 1.3842 kJkg-1°C-1 and 1672.69 kJkg-1, respectively. It was observed that the drying kinetics, specific heat, and enthalpy values vary significantly as functions of air temperature which seem to have more effect when compared to air flow rate and seaweed loading. Hence, the best method for seaweed drying was to use convective air system rather than sun drying because it required less drying time and has better drying efficiency.
Targeted Inactivation of Kinesin-1 in Pancreatic β-Cells In Vivo Leads to Insulin Secretory Deficiency
Authors: Cui Ju , Wang Zai , Cheng Qianni , Lin Raozhou , Zhang Xin-Mei , Leung Po Sing , Copeland Neal G. , Jenkins Nancy A. , Yao Kwok-Ming , Huang Jian-Dong
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

Suppression of Kinesin-1 by antisense oligonucleotides, or overexpression of dominant-negative acting kinesin heavy chain, has been reported to affect the sustained phase of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in β-cells in vitro. In this study, we examined the in vivo physiological role of Kinesin-1 in β-cell development and function.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A Cre-LoxP strategy was used to generate conditional knockout mice in which the Kif5b gene is specifically inactivated in pancreatic β-cells. Physiological and histological analyses were carried out in Kif5b knockout mice as well as littermate controls.

RESULTS

Mice with β-cell specific deletion of Kif5b (Kif5bfl/−:RIP2-Cre) displayed significantly retarded growth as well as slight hyperglycemia in both nonfasting and 16-h fasting conditions compared with control littermates. In addition, Kif5bfl/−:RIP2-Cre mice displayed significant glucose intolerance, which was not due to insulin resistance but was related to an insulin secretory defect in response to glucose challenge. These defects of β-cell function in mutant mice were not coupled with observable changes in islet morphology, islet cell composition, or β-cell size. However, compared with controls, pancreas of Kif5bfl/−:RIP2-Cre mice exhibited both reduced islet size and increased islet number, concomitant with an increased insulin vesicle density in β-cells.

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to being essential for maintaining glucose homeostasis and regulating β-cell function, Kif5b may be involved in β-cell development by regulating β-cell proliferation and insulin vesicle synthesis.
Nuclear Orphan Receptor TAK1/TR4-Deficient Mice Are Protected Against Obesity-Linked Inflammation, Hepatic Steatosis, and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Kang Hong Soon , Okamoto Kyoko , Kim Yong-Sik , Takeda Yukimasa , Bortner Carl D. , Dang Huaixin , Wada Taira , Xie Wen , Yang Xiao-Ping , Liao Grace , Jetten Anton M.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

The nuclear receptor TAK1/TR4/NR2C2 is expressed in several tissues that are important in the control of energy homeostasis. In this study, we investigate whether TAK1 functions as a regulator of lipid and energy homeostasis and has a role in metabolic syndrome.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We generated TAK1-deficient (TAK1−/−) mice to study the function of TAK1 in the development of metabolic syndrome in aged mice and mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). (Immuno)histochemical, biochemical, and gene expression profile analyses were performed to determine the effect of the loss of TAK1 expression on lipid homeostasis in liver and adipose tissues. In addition, insulin sensitivity, energy expenditure, and adipose-associated inflammation were compared in wild-type (WT) and TAK1−/− mice fed a HFD.

RESULTS

TAK1-deficient (TAK1−/−) mice are resistant to the development of age- and HFD-induced metabolic syndrome. Histo- and biochemical analyses showed significantly lower hepatic triglyceride levels and reduced lipid accumulation in adipose tissue in TAK1−/− mice compared with WT mice. Gene expression profiling analysis revealed that the expression of several genes encoding proteins involved in lipid uptake and triglyceride synthesis and storage, including Cidea, Cidec, Mogat1, and CD36, was greatly decreased in the liver and primary hepatocytes of TAK1−/− mice. Restoration of TAK1 expression in TAK1−/− hepatocytes induced expression of several lipogenic genes. Moreover, TAK1−/− mice exhibited reduced infiltration of inflammatory cells and expression of inflammatory genes in white adipose tissue, and were resistant to the development of glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. TAK1−/− mice consume more oxygen and produce more carbon dioxide than WT mice, suggesting increased energy expenditure.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data reveal that TAK1 plays a critical role in the regulation of energy and lipid homeostasis, and promotes the development of metabolic syndrome. TAK1 may provide a new therapeutic target in the management of obesity, diabetes, and liver steatosis.
Prep1 Controls Insulin Glucoregulatory Function in Liver by Transcriptional Targeting of SHP1 Tyrosine Phosphatase
Authors: Oriente Francesco , Iovino Salvatore , Cabaro Serena , Cassese Angela , Longobardi Elena , Miele Claudia , Ungaro Paola , Formisano Pietro , Blasi Francesco , Beguinot Francesco
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the function of the Prep1 gene in insulin-dependent glucose homeostasis in liver.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Prep1 action on insulin glucoregulatory function has been analyzed in liver of Prep1-hypomorphic mice (Prep1i/i), which express 2–3% of Prep1 mRNA.

RESULTS

Based on euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp studies and measurement of glycogen content, livers from Prep1i/i mice feature increased sensitivity to insulin. Tyrosine phosphorylation of both insulin receptor (IR) and insulin receptor substrate (IRS)1/2 was significantly enhanced in Prep1i/i livers accompanied by a specific downregulation of the SYP and SHP1 tyrosine phosphatases. Prep1 overexpression in HepG2 liver cells upregulated SYP and SHP1 and inhibited insulin-induced IR and IRS1/2 phosphorylation and was accompanied by reduced glycogen content. Consistently, overexpression of the Prep1 partner Pbx1, but not of p160MBP, mimicked Prep1 effects on tyrosine phosphorylations, glycogen content, and on SYP and SHP1 expression. In Prep1 overexpressing cells, antisense silencing of SHP1, but not that of SYP, rescued insulin-dependent IR phosphorylation and glycogen accumulation. Both Prep1 and Pbx1 bind SHP1 promoter at a site located between nucleotides −2,113 and −1,778. This fragment features enhancer activity and induces luciferase function by 7-, 6-, and 30-fold, respectively, in response to Prep1, Pbx1, or both.

CONCLUSIONS

SHP1, a known silencer of insulin signal, is a transcriptional target of Prep1. In liver, transcriptional activation of SHP1 gene by Prep1 attenuates insulin signal transduction and reduces glucose storage.
Genetic Predisposition to Long-Term Nondiabetic Deteriorations in Glucose Homeostasis
Authors: Renström Frida , Shungin Dmitry , Johansson Ingegerd ,   the MAGIC Investigators, Florez Jose C. , Hallmans Göran , Hu Frank B. , Franks Paul W.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether recently discovered genetic loci associated with hyperglycemia also predict long-term changes in glycemic traits.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Sixteen fasting glucose-raising loci were genotyped in middle-aged adults from the Gene x Lifestyle interactions And Complex traits Involved in Elevated disease Risk (GLACIER) Study, a population-based prospective cohort study from northern Sweden. Genotypes were tested for association with baseline fasting and 2-h postchallenge glycemia (N = 16,330), and for changes in these glycemic traits during a 10-year follow-up period (N = 4,059).

RESULTS

Cross-sectional directionally consistent replication with fasting glucose concentrations was achieved for 12 of 16 variants; 10 variants were also associated with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and 7 were independently associated with 2-h postchallenge glucose concentrations. In prospective analyses, the effect alleles at four loci (GCK rs4607517, ADRA2A rs10885122, DGKB-TMEM195 rs2191349, and G6PC2 rs560887) were nominally associated with worsening fasting glucose concentrations during 10-years of follow-up. MTNR1B rs10830963, which was predictive of elevated fasting glucose concentrations in cross-sectional analyses, was associated with a protective effect on postchallenge glucose concentrations during follow-up; however, this was only when baseline fasting and 2-h glucoses were adjusted for. An additive effect of multiple risk alleles on glycemic traits was observed: a weighted genetic risk score (80th vs. 20th centiles) was associated with a 0.16 mmol/l (P = 2.4 × 10−6) greater elevation in fasting glucose and a 64% (95% CI: 33–201%) higher risk of developing IFG during 10 years of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings imply that genetic profiling might facilitate the early detection of persons who are genetically susceptible to deteriorating glucose control; studies of incident type 2 diabetes and discrete cardiovascular end points will help establish whether the magnitude of these changes is clinically relevant.
The Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome and Associated Risk Factors in Northern Plains and Southwest American Indians
Authors: Sinclair Kaìmi A. , Bogart Andy , Buchwald Dedra , Henderson Jeffrey A.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome by age, sex, and diabetes status in Northern Plains and Southwest American Indians.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Data for this analysis came from the Education and Research Toward Health (EARTH) study, a 5-year cross-sectional study of Southwest and Northern Plains American Indian adults. The National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP/ATP III) guidelines were used to identify adults with metabolic syndrome.

RESULTS

The age-adjusted prevalence of the metabolic syndrome was 49.8% among 4,457 participants aged 18–88 years. Age-adjusted prevalence was 42.4% for participants without diabetes and 86.6% for participants with diabetes. In participants aged <40 years, the overall prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 53.1%; 44.9% after excluding individuals with diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms a high prevalence of the metabolic syndrome among Northern Plains and Southwest American Indians of all ages.
Leptin and Amylin Act in an Additive Manner to Activate Overlapping Signaling Pathways in Peripheral Tissues
Authors: Moon Hyun-Seuk , Chamberland John P. , Diakopoulos Kalliope N. , Fiorenza Christina G. , Ziemke Florencia , Schneider Benjamin , Mantzoros Christos S.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

Amylin interacts with leptin to alter metabolism. We evaluated, for the first time, amylin- and/or leptin-activated signaling pathways in human peripheral tissues (hPTs).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Leptin and amylin signaling studies were performed in vitro in human primary adipocytes (hPAs) and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (hPBMCs) and ex vivo in human adipose tissue (hAT) from male versus female subjects, obese versus lean subjects, and subjects with subcutaneous versus omental adipose tissue.

RESULTS

The long form of leptin receptor was expressed in human tissues and cells studied in ex vivo and in vitro, respectively. Leptin and amylin alone and in combination activate signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), AMP-activated protein kinase, Akt, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling pathways in hAT ex vivo and hPAs and hPBMCs in vitro; all phosphorylation events were saturable at leptin and amylin concentrations of ∼50 and ∼20 ng/ml, respectively. The effects of leptin and amylin on STAT3 phosphorylation in hPAs and hPBMCs in vitro were totally abolished under endoplasmic reticulum stress and/or in the presence of a STAT3 inhibitor. Results similar to those in the in vitro studies were observed in hAT studied ex vivo.

CONCLUSIONS

Leptin and amylin activate overlapping intracellular signaling pathways in humans and have additive, but not synergistic, effects in signaling pathways studied in hPTs in vitro and ex vivo.
Time and Fantasy in Narratives of Jihad: The Case of the Islami Jamiat-I-Tuleba in Karachi
Authors: Khan Nichola
Published: September 2010

Time and Fantasy in Narratives of Jihad: The Case of the Islami Jamiat-I-Tuleba in Karachi

This article proposes an analytical framework for thinking about violence in the Islami Jamiat-i-Tuleba (IJT), the student organization of Jamaat e Islami (JI), Pakistan's longstanding Islamist party. It prioritises the intersection of the psychic and the social, and the role of politics, history and biography in mediating the modalities, narration and praxis of violence in the city of Karachi. The dominant explanations tend to emphasise political instrumentalism, and structural and ideological factors, and to "Islamicise" the violence, collapsing Islamic rhetoric into an extemporization of conditions, ignoring the deep affective appeal of violence to individuals, and leaving unelaborated the role of intersecting national, local and individual contexts and temporalities in structuring political subjectivity and violent action.
Experiential Foundationalism, Linguistic Practice, and Historicity
Authors: Małecki Wojciech
Published: September 2010

Experiential Foundationalism, Linguistic Practice, and Historicity
Response of the Danube River Floodplain to Flood Events During 2002-2007 Period
Authors: Lehotský Milan , Novotný Ján , Szmańda Jacek
Published: September 2010

Response of the Danube River Floodplain to Flood Events During 2002-2007 Period

The relationship between floods and their geomorphic effect is discussed in this article. Almost every flood event is registered in overbank alluvia. We investigated sediment structures and textures as a response to three flood events occurred during 2002-2007 period on the Danube River floodplain in Bratislava. The change in sedimentation is the effect of floodwater flow energy changeability in the channel and floodplain. Generally, three main phases of energy flow changes of floods are recognised and thus the complete flood record can be expressed as the set of three layers. We also analysed conditions of the overbank sedimentation based on the shape and size of sedimented particles. Results show a relatively high variability of sedimentation processes during floods. The total amount of new overbank sediment accumulated in the 2002-2007 period, its texture characteristics and spatial distribution do not depend only on flood discharge, but also on the drainage basin sources of floodwater and sediment.
Holocene Inset Fills of the Odra River in the Racibórz Basin
Authors: Wójcicki Krzysztof , Śleszyński Przemysław , Mazur Sławomir
Published: September 2010

Holocene Inset Fills of the Odra River in the Racibórz Basin

Geomorphic and lithological research conducted in the Odra River valley between Koźle and Krapkowice led to recognition of the postglacial development of the upper Odra River valley floor, for the first time, on the basis of a larger number of absolute datings. The formation of the inset alluvial fills by a meandering river started during the Early Holocene at the latest; however, the absence of a clearly developed system of large Late Vistulian palaeomeanders is notable within the analysed reach of the valley. Mid- and Late Holocene alluvial series were deposited by a river that exhibited a tendency to decrease in channel sizes. Nevertheless, large meanders were formed again in historical times. Oxbow fills in the Odra River valley are dominated by mineralogenic deposits. Their sedimentation can be correlated with the accretion of overbank and colluvial sheets in the valley floor. In the light of radiocarbon chronology, a relationship between Neolithic and subsequent phases of settlement in the catchment and the intensive deposition of these sediments cannot be ruled out.
Numerical Models for Fatigue Crack Evolution Study
Authors: Fuiorea Ion , Bartis Daniela , Nedelcu Roxana , Frunzulica Florin
Published: September 2010

Numerical Models for Fatigue Crack Evolution Study

The paper presents some considerations regarding to the numerical simulation of the behaviour of the riveted structures in fatigue loading conditions. In order to estimate the stress intensity factor, "k", different constitutive laws for the materials were considered. Choosing different contours for "J" integral calculation, some simplified models were studied. The final numerical results were analysed with respect to the physical tests.
Deterministic Approach to Predicting the Fatigue Crack Growth in the 2024-T3 Aluminum Alloy Under Variable Amplitude Loading
Authors: Kocańda Dorota , Torzewski Janusz
Published: September 2010

Deterministic Approach to Predicting the Fatigue Crack Growth in the 2024-T3 Aluminum Alloy Under Variable Amplitude Loading

The paper presents the attempt to predict fatigue crack growth rate in a component subjected to variable amplitude loading containing overload-underload cycles. For this goal in a deterministic approach the modified Willenborg retardation model was applied. To provide experimental data the research into fatigue crack growth for 2024-T3 aluminum alloy sheet CCT specimens under LHL type block program loading with multiple overload-underload cycles was developed. The microfractographic analysis of fatigue fractures with the use of the transmission electron microscope (TEM) made it possible to trace the effect of block program loading on the crack growth rate. The knowledge of the affection of a particular overload-underload cycle or a block of these cycles on crack rate on the basis of microfractographic analysis was utilized for assessing the equivalent loading for the LHL block program. The diagrams that presented the crack growth rate both on the surface and inside the aluminum alloy sheet was performed. The crack growth rate inside the sheet was estimated on the basis of the striation spacing analysis.
On In-Network and Other Types of Amplifier Descriptions for Nonlinear Distortion Analysis
Authors: Borys Andrzej
Published: September 2010

On In-Network and Other Types of Amplifier Descriptions for Nonlinear Distortion Analysis

Basics of modelling analog weakly nonlinear amplifiers at higher frequencies for the purpose of nonlinear distortion analysis are addressed in this paper. First, the constitutive relation for this class of amplifiers, with the use of a Volterra series, is formulated. It is the basis for formulation and derivation of the so-called in-network and input-output type descriptions of an amplifier in the time domain, which are then transferred into the multi-frequency domains. Usefulness of the general models achieved, which were not published up to now in the literature, lies in the fact that they can be used for any topology in which the amplifier is incorporated and for any nonlinear distortion measure assumed. Some examples of calculations are given at the end of the paper for cascade and feedback topologies, and for harmonic distortion measure.
Physical Therapist Management of Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome
Authors: Van Alstyne Linda S. , Harrington Kendra L. , Haskvitz Esther M.
Published: September 2010

Background and Purpose

Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) negatively affects quality of life and sexual function in men of all ages. Typical treatment with antibiotic and antimicrobial drugs often is not successful. The purpose of this case report is to describe a multimodal physical therapy intervention that included manual therapy techniques applied to the pelvic floor in 2 patients who were unsuccessfully treated with the biomedical model of prescription drug therapies.

Case Description

Two men, aged 45 years and 53 years and diagnosed with chronic prostatitis, were referred for physical therapy following unsuccessful pharmacological treatment. The patients were treated with manual therapy techniques applied to the pelvic floor and instructed in progressive muscle relaxation, flexibility exercises, and aerobic exercises.

Outcomes

Changes in the patients' National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index revealed differences between preintervention and postintervention scores reflecting decreased pain and improved quality of life. One patient improved from a score of 25 (total possible score=43) before treatment to a score of 0 after treatment, and the other patient improved from a score of 29 to a score of 21.

Discussion

Manual therapy techniques applied to the pelvic floor and performed by a physical therapist specially trained in these techniques, along with progressive muscle relaxation, flexibility exercises, and aerobic exercises, appeared to be beneficial to both patients in reducing pain and improving sexual function.
When Clothes Become Fashion
Authors: Loschek Ingrid
Published: September 2010

When, how and why do clothes become fashion? Fashion is more than mere clothing. It is a moment of invention, a distillation of desire, a reflection of a zeitgeist. It is also a business relying on an intricate network of manufacture, marketing and retail. Fashion is both medium and message but it does not explain itself. It requires language and images for its global mediation. It develops from the prescience of the designer and is dependent on acceptance by observers and wearers alike. When Clothes Become Fashion explores the structures and strategies which underlie fashion innovation, how fashion is perceived and the point at which clothing is accepted or rejected as fashion. The book provides a clear theoretical framework for understanding the world of fashion - its aesthetic premises, plurality of styles, performative impulses, social qualities and economic conditions.
Visibly Muslim
Authors: Tarlo Emma
Published: September 2010

Muslims in Britain and cosmopolitan cities throughout the West are increasingly choosing to express their identity and faith through dress, whether by wearing colourful headscarves, austere black garments or creative new forms of Islamic fashion. Why is dress such an important issue for Muslims? Why is it such a major topic of media interest and international concern? This timely and important book cuts through media stereotypes of Muslim appearances, providing intimate insights into what clothes mean to the people who design and wear them. It examines how different ideas of fashion, politics, faith, freedom, beauty, modesty and cultural diversity are articulated by young British Muslims as they seek out clothes which best express their identities, perspectives and concerns. It also explores the wider social and political effects of their clothing choices on the development of transnational cultural formations and multicultural urban spaces. Based on contemporary ethnographic research, the book is an essential read for students and scholars of religion, sociology, cultural studies, anthropology and fashion as well as anyone interested in cultural diversity and the changing face of cosmopolitan cities throughout the world.
Fashion Classics from Carlyle to Barthes
Authors: Carter Michael
Published: September 2010

With so much focus on contemporary theory, it is easy to forget that the serious analysis of clothing and fashion has a long history. In fact, they have been the subject of intense cultural debate since the nineteenth century. Fashion Classics provides an interpretative overview of the groundbreaking and often idiosyncratic writings of eight theorists whose work has profoundly influenced the conceptual and theoretical basis of our contemporary understanding of clothes and the fashion system. Carter fully revives early fashion theorists -- some canonical and others less well known -- and examines them in light of more recent work. From Carlyles fantastical character Professor Teufelsdrockh, through the first Freudian analysis of clothes by J.C. Flugel, the pioneering work of Spencer, Veblen, Simmel, Kroeber, Laver and finally Barthes monumental work on the modern fashion system, this book explores and explains the foundations of fashion theory. Not only does it provide an historical outline of Western conceptions of clothes and fashion, but it also highlights how ideas intermix and build on one another. Carters lively narrative clearly shows that views on fashion have always been impassioned perhaps most notably Carlyles notorious attack on Dandyism and Veblens suggestion that clothes should be made out of old newspaper. This book also makes sense of complex theory and is essential reading for anyone seeking an overview of the history of fashion theory.
Hinterland Warriors and Military Dress
Authors: Abler Thomas S.
Published: September 2010

Much of the exotic dress of the armies of Europe and elsewhere has its origins in the conditions of frontier wars fought by imperial armies. As states have expanded to control hinterlands occupied by culturally diverse peoples, the ensuing conflicts have had an impact on imperial armies and the way they have dressed. 'Hinterland warriors' have been employed by imperial governments for a multitude of reasons: they understand the tactics of enemies at the border and are skilled tacticians themselves; they possess local knowledge; they do not disrupt the labor supply; politicians do not have to answer for high casualty rates if these are suffered by hinterland rather than metropolitan troops; finally, they are often classed as 'martial races' and therefore do not require the training needed by fresh recruits. Throughout time, imperial officers and auxiliaries adopted the dress of these hinterland troops under their command, and even metropolitan units in the imperial armies appropriated items of local dress while engaged in wars on the borders of the empire. These innovations frequently became institutionalized, and in many cases were distorted and stylized, resulting in a caricature of the dress of the hinterland troops that originally provided the model. This engrossing book charts how the perceptions of these marginalized peoples influenced and ultimately transformed the history of military dress.
Religion, Dress and the Body
Authors: Arthur Linda B.
Published: September 2010

Religions constrain the bodies of their members through dress. In many cases, dress immediately identifies a member of the community to the outside world and separates them from a society that members believe is threatened by evil forces. Dress identifies the wearer's community to other groups and communities, and may also reflect one's status. Most interestingly, perhaps, dress is a measure of one's level of commitment to the community. While communities vary greatly in terms of what is permissible, strict conformity to internal codes invariably is interpreted as a sign of piety, whereas deviation implies at best self-indulgence and at worst contempt for community values. In order to control sexuality, women's bodies in particular are constrained in religious communities in terms of emotional expression, diet, and especially dress. This book investigates dress in American religious communities as a vital component of the social control of cultures, and also examines how people express themselves despite religious constraints. Gender issues feature prominently since the control of female sexuality within religious communities is a matter of vital concern to its members. Drawing on rich ethnographic case studies, this wide-ranging and interdisciplinary represents a major contribution to the study of both religion and dress.
Unzipping Gender
Authors: Suthrell Charlotte
Published: September 2010

How does culture shape notions of sexuality and gender? Why are transvestites in the West so often seen as deviant or perverse, while they are accepted in other societies? What are the implications for the categories of male and female when considering transvestism? Transvestism, and its cultural practice, is a useful lens through which we can view and thus debate models of sex, gender and sexuality. Drawing on primary fieldwork, Unzipping Gender offers a cross-cultural study of transvestism through an examination of transvestites in Britain and the Hijras of India. The author tackles the critical question of whether or not transvestism is motivated primarily by sex or gender, and she challenges the straightforward binary divide that dominates Western theories of gender. Taking into account the importance of material culture, she also pays close attention to the detail of dress and considers the artefactual nature of the construction of the self through clothing. Highlighting the differences between the two groups and drawing on further cross-cultural perspectives, Suthrell illustrates the social construction of sex and gender. She considers the roles that emotion, mythology, imagery and belief systems play in influencing ideas about sex and gender in different cultures. Since sex and gender must inevitably be intertwined, Suthrell argues for a more sophisticated response to the complex practice of transvestism. In order to gain a deeper understanding of sex and gender issues, it is imperative to examine the underlying social and symbolic structures. This unique study across cultures leads the way.
Effect of Train Speed on Risk Analysis of Transporting Hazardous Materials by Rail
Authors: Kawprasert Athaphon , Barkan Christopher P. L.
Published: September 2010

This paper considers the effect of train speed on railroad hazardous materials transportation risk. A statistical method was developed to estimate the speed-dependent conditional probability of release (CPR) of hazardous material from tank cars involved in accidents. The objective was to assess how accounting for speed affects the results of risk analysis. A case study of a representative hazardous materials route was conducted. In that case study, risk estimates were developed by using conventional, average-speed CPR, and the estimates were compared with those obtained by analyzing the same route using speed-dependent CPR. The differences in calculated risk indicate that the use of the speed-dependent CPR may be an important refinement for the accurate calculation of the risk of a route. The effects of track-class upgrades on risk were also considered. Track with higher Federal Railroad Administration classes has lower accident rates, but the higher permissible speeds increase the CPR if a tank car is derailed in an accident. Consequently, evaluation of the effect of track upgrades must account for both factors to understand the net impact on risk. Two scenarios were considered in the track-class upgrade analysis: upgrades without an increase in speed and upgrades with an increase in speed. The increased tank car hazardous material release rate at the higher speeds permissible on higher track classes was more than offset by the reduction in the accident rate for all the track-class upgrade scenarios considered. For the particular route analyzed in the case study, use of the speed-dependent CPR resulted in a slight increase in the overall risk estimate, and upgrading of Class 3 track provided the greatest reduction in risk. Such results will be route specific; however, the use of a speed-dependent CPR enables the more accurate analysis of local risk and provides a better evaluation of risk reduction options that involve changes in operating and track characteristics.
Stress Dependence of Ultrasonic Guided Waves in Rails
Authors: Bartoli Ivan , Phillips Robert , Coccia Stefano , Srivastava Ankit , di Scalea Francesco Lanza , Fateh Mahmood , Carr Gary
Published: September 2010

Most modern railways use continuous welded rails (CWRs). A major problem in these structures is the almost total absence of expansion joints, which can create severe issues such as buckling in hot weather and breakage or pulling apart in cold weather. To minimize these risks, CWRs are built by connecting track segments that are prestressed before welding. A related critical parameter is the rail neutral temperature (NT), which is defined as the temperature at which the net longitudinal force in the rail is zero. When the ambient temperature is higher or lower than the NT, the rail is under compression and tension, respectively. Knowledge of the NT provides a potential method for indirect measurement of the stress and load in the rail. Unfortunately, the measurement of the in situ stress (or NT) has been a long-standing challenge for railway owners and operators. This paper presents numerical results on the dynamic behavior of CWRs subjected to a static axial stress. The results show how ultrasonic guided waves are sensitive to variations in stress and could potentially be used to estimate the stress level or the NT in rails. The present work represents the initial concept phase of a research and development study funded by the FRA. The ultimate objective of this study is to develop and test a prototype system that uses noncontact dynamic sensing to measure in situ rail stress in motion at speeds up to 30 mph to determine rail NTs and the related incipient buckling risks in CWRs.
Culture, Identity, Difference
Authors: Basu Paul , Coleman Simon
Published: September 2010

In its 2002-3 Strategic Review, the Royal Anthropological Institute reasserted the importance of the public communication of anthropology for the future of the discipline. Two significant venues for public engagement activity were identified: museums and pre-university education contexts. We present an account of the development and piloting of an anthropology teaching and learning resource that bridges these two arenas. Complementing efforts to introduce an anthropology A-Level, the Culture, Identity, Difference resource uses museum collections as a way of introducing anthropological perspectives on topics such as belief, ethnicity, gender and power to enhance students' studies across a range of different A-Level subjects. We reflect on some of the lessons learnt during the process, including the value of developing resources that can be used flexibly and creatively by teachers and students, and the need to approach the museum as a space of encounter, exploration and experimentation rather than as a didactic educational venue.
Transorbital penetrating injury: case series, review of the literature, and proposed management algorithm
Authors: Schreckinger Matthew , Orringer Daniel , Thompson B. Gregory , La Marca Frank , Sagher Oren
Published: September 2010

Transorbital penetrating injury (TPI), an uncommon subset of head trauma, requires prompt multidisciplinary surgical intervention. While numerous case reports appear in the literature, there is a lack of discrete recommendations for initial evaluation, surgical intervention, and postoperative care of patients with TPI.

A retrospective review of 4 cases of TPI at the University of Michigan Health System was undertaken to assess for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. In addition, a PubMed search using the terms “penetrating orbital trauma,” “penetrating orbital injury,” “transorbital penetration,” and “transorbital penetrating injury” were used to search for articles discussing the presentation and management of penetrating orbital trauma.

All 4 of the patients at the University of Michigan underwent focused physical examination performed by a multidisciplinary trauma team followed by dedicated maxillofacial and head CT scanning. The patients' treatments varied, depending on the mechanism and extent of the injury. An analysis of the case series presented here as well as other published cases suggests an algorithm for diagnosis and treatment for patients with TPI, which includes focused evaluation, diagnostic imaging with maxillofacial CT scanning, and management of the injury that focuses on the path of penetration and the presence of the foreign body in situ at the time of presentation. Magnetic resonance imaging is indicated in patients who have indwelling wooden foreign bodies. Angiography should be performed in patients with suspected vascular injury. Treatment decisions should be made by a multidisciplinary team with input from neurosurgery, ophthalmology, otolaryngology, and maxillofacial surgery.
OUTWARD FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT AND PRODUCT QUALITY OF DOMESTIC PRODUCTIONS: AN EMPIRICAL INVESTIGATION
Authors: Weng Yungho , Yang Chih-Hai , Tu Fang-Chiu
Published: September 2010

While conceptual and theoretical studies have claimed that outward foreign direct investment (FDI) is an effective way to improve the quality of domestic production, there has been less systematic investigation into that claim. The statistical analysis of a survey of Taiwan's outward FDI activity shows that FDI had a positive effect on the quality of only 33.4% of investing firms. We further employ the microeconometric technique to analyze what kinds of globalization behaviors improve the quality of domestic firms’ products. The empirical results show that the strategy of expansionary FDI is more effective than defensive FDI at improving product quality because it allows domestic firms to learn advanced technologies from guest countries. Moreover, the reallocation of export between foreign affiliates and the parent company is an effective way for investing firms to focus on improving domestic product quality. Santrauka Remiantis koncepciniu ir teoriniu tyrimu rezultatais, ieinančios tiesiogines užsienio investicijos yra veiksmingas būdas vidaus produkcijos kokybei gerinti, tačiau tokiam teiginiui pagristi nebuvo atlikti sistemingi tyrimai. Taivanio ieinančiu tiesioginiu užsienio investiciju veiklos tyrimo statistines analizes duomenimis, tiesioginiu užsienio investiciju iš visu imones investiciju itaka kokybei sudaro tik 33,4 %. Toliau buvo taikoma mikroekonometrine metodika, siekiant ištirti, kokios rūšies globalizacijos elgsena pagerina vietines imoniu produkcijos kokybe. Empirinio tyrimo rezultatai parode, kad, gerinant produkcijos kokybe, pletros tiesiogines užsienio investicijos yra efektyvesnes nei apsaugines tiesiogines užsienio investicijos. Taip yra todel, kad jos leidžia šalies vidaus imonems sužinoti apie pažangias kitu šaliu technologijas. Be to, eksporto perskirstymas tarp užsienio filialu ir pagrindines imones yra veiksmingas būdas investuojančiai imonei daugiausia demesio skirti vidaus produkcijos kokybei.
APPLICATION OF E‐TECHNOLOGIES FOR REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT: THE CASE OF VILNIUS CITY
Authors: Zavadskas Edmundas Kazimieras , Kaklauskas Artūras , Banaitis Audrius
Published: September 2010

The investigation carried out by the authors of this paper under “Intelligent Cities” (Framework 6 programme) and e‐City (Phare PPF) projects helped to identify and describe major trends of e‐cities development in industrialized countries as well as providing recommendations for e‐Vilnius development. Research included the following four stages: comparative description of the e‐cities development in developed countries and in Vilnius, comparison and contrast of e‐cities development in developed countries and in Vilnius, development of some of the general recommendations as how to improve the efficiency levels for e‐Vilnius, submission of particular recommendations for e‐Vilnius. In order to throw more light on the Model, a more detailed description of some above stages follows in the paper. Santrauka Šio straipsnio autoriu atliktas tyrimas pagal projektus “Protingi miestai” (6‐oji bendroji programa) ir “E.miestas” (Phare PPF) padejo nustatyti bei aprašyti pagrindines kryptis, leidžiančias pletoti e. miestus industrializuotose šalyse, ir pateikti elektronines Vilniaus pletros rekomendacijas. Tyrima sudaro keturios pakopos: lyginamojo e. miestu pletojimo išsivysčiusiose šalyse ir Vilniuje aprašymas, e. miestu pletojimo išsivysčiusiose šalyse ir Vilniuje sugretinimas bei skirtumu tarp ju parodymas, bendruju rekomendaciju, kaip pakelti e. Vilniaus pletros efektyvuma, sukūrimas ir sukurtu rekomendaciju pateikimas. Kad svarstomas modelis būtu aiškesnis, pateikiamas išsamesnis kai kuriu pakopu aprašymas.
Caucase : la marche turbulente de la Fédération de Russie
Authors: Radvanyi Jean
Published: September 2010

En dépit de la normalisation autoritaire de la Tchétchénie, le Caucase-Nord demeure la région la plus fragile de Russie, perpétuellement soumise à des tensions récurrentes, attentats, confrontations violentes entre les forces de l’ordre et divers groupes contestataires, nationalistes ou islamistes radicaux. Les tensions récentes survenues dans pratiquement toutes les républiques du Caucase surviennent dans un contexte de crise économique et sociale que n’ont pas encore réduit les importantes dotations budgétaires fédérales. C’est que l’efﬁcacité de l’action gouvernementale se heurte ici à un système de pouvoir qui, plus encore que dans le reste du pays, repose sur des alliances de clans, des pratiques de corruption que dénoncent régulièrement les islamistes. Alors que les interférences entre les deux versants de la chaîne ont été encore accentuées par la guerre d’août 2008, qui a vu la Russie reconnaître la sécession de l’Abkhazie et de l’Ossétie du Sud de Géorgie, Moscou peine à dégager une stratégie de stabilisation efﬁcace.
Pogroms contre les Ouzbeks à Och au Kirghizstan.
Authors: Pétric Boris-Mathieu
Published: September 2010

Le Kirghizstan a fait l’objet d’un véritable marketing : « Suisse de l’Asie centrale » « îlot démocratique », ce pays jouissait encore récemment d’une réputation sans équivalent en Asie centrale auprès de la communauté internationale. Les multiples bailleurs de fonds ont largement copiloté les évolutions politiques depuis 1991 en faisant la promotion d’un modèle politique particulier qui repose sur une libéralisation économique et l’édiﬁcation d’une démocratie ethnonationale. Malgré un tel soutien, comment ce pays a-t-il pu sombrer dans un chaos généralisé débouchant sur les violences qui secouent le sud du pays ces derniers jours ? En vérité, il ne s’agit pas d’un nouveau conﬂit interethnique qui puiserait ses racines dans un système politique traditionnel défaillant (tribalisme, ethnicisme). Les pogroms ethniques qui ont touché les Ouzbeks ces derniers jours sont bien modernes et surgissent dans une situation historique liée à l’émergence d’une gouvernance mondialisée qui se met en place après la guerre froide. Ce pays est devenu un territoire où s’affrontent des groupes politico-maﬁeux. Leur rivalité s’est transformée en affrontement interethnique majeur.
Étouffement et renaissance des oppositions en Russie (2000-2010)
Authors: Vaissié Cécile
Published: September 2010

En octobre 2009, près des trois quarts des Russes considèrent que leur pays a besoin de partis et de mouvements d’opposition. Ce résultat est d’autant plus signiﬁcatif que, depuis l’avènement de Vladimir Poutine à la présidence, le Kremlin a éliminé les contre-pouvoirs et rétabli la « verticale du pouvoir ». Il a tenté de réduire les contestataires au silence et a fabriqué sa propre « opposition dans le système ». Les oppositions réapparaissent toutefois, très diverses. Le mouvement Une Autre Russie organise les « Marches de ceux qui ne sont pas d’accord » et fait partie d’une opposition « hors système » qui se structure à la ﬁn de 2008. Et 2010 est marqué par la réémergence d’une contestation sociale publique : les manifestations se multiplient dans tout le pays, tandis que le mécontentement se cristallise sur les « accidents VIP », révélateurs de dysfonctionnements anciens. La situation évolue rapidement, tandis que le pouvoir multiplie les comportements contradictoires.