bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age and gender variations in trend of road traffic fatalities in Manipal, India
Authors: Kanchan Tanuj , Menezes Ritesh G , Bakkannavar Shankar M
Published: March 2011

Background

The incidence of road traffic fatalities has been increasing at an alarming rate and is a global cause for concern.

Aims

To assess the age- and gender-based variations in the pattern of road traffic fatalities in Manipal, southern India and to provide an epidemiological profile of the population at risk.

Settings and design

Registry-based retrospective research on road traffic fatalities in Manipal, extending from 1994 to 2009, was conducted at the Department of Forensic Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal.

Material and methods

The data were collected from the autopsy files and information furnished by the police in the inquest papers. Road traffic fatalities were analysed, keeping the gender and age of the victim as co-variables.

Results and conclusions

Road traffic fatalities constituted the majority of autopsied cases (38.6%) and unnatural deaths (37.8%). Percentage share of road traffic fatalities with regard to unnatural deaths in Manipal did not show a definite trend during the last 16 years. Male preponderance was quite evident, male–female ratio being 7.2:1. Male mortality pattern peaked during the third decade followed by a gradual decline, whereas the mortality pattern among women was almost uniform from second to seventh decade. Overall, people in their third decade were most prone to road traffic fatalities (26.9%), a trend similar to that of male mortalities. The overall pattern of road traffic fatalities was quite similar to those in other parts of India and the world. The global problem with regard to road traffic fatalities remains the same irrespective of the difference in topography and demography of the region.
Reliability and Sensitivity Analysis of Double-Layer Spherical Latticed Shell
Authors: Hui-Jun Li , Chun-Guang Liu , Ling-Ling JIA
Published: March 2011

In the reliability and sensitivity analysis of space structures, the traditional reliability index approach (RIA) becomes much more difficult to convergence in some cases, even divergent. To overcome these shortcomings, the Performance Measure Approach (PMA) is introduced to deal with the above problem in space lattice structures. The reliability and sensitivity of four double-layer spherical latticed shell are discussed. Numerical results show that PMA is robust and efficient. With the decrease of height-to-span ratio of reticulated shell, the maximal vertical deformation gradually increases, which is the reason why the reliability index inclines markedly. Concentrated loads, which surrounded the node where the maximal deformation occurs, markedly influence the maximal deformation.
Seismic Performance of Double-Layer Spherical Reticulated Shell with Replaceable Bar-Type Dampers
Authors: Yang Yang , Spencer Bill F. , Li Youming , Shen Shizhao
Published: March 2011

A new control method is proposed to improve the seismic performance of double-layered Kiewitt Spherical reticulated shells. The approach taken is to replace selected bars in the shell with passive viscoelastic dampers; thus, the grid of the shell doesn't need to be changed. Computational models of the shell with the eight different damper topologies are developed using ANSYS®. The seismic response of the shell is simulated to determine the performance of the various damper topologies. A parameter study is conducted to determine optimal values for the damping coefficient of dampers. Finally, the dynamic stability and failure modes of the shell are investigated through incremental dynamic analysis. If designed well, failure of the controlled shell is usually the result of a strength failure, rather than a dynamic instability.
FEM Simulation and Field Monitoring of Depropping Procedure of a Large-Span Single-Layer Latticed Shell
Authors: Chen Jun , Peng Yixin , Zhao Xudong
Published: March 2011

This paper investigates the depropping procedure of a large span single-layer dome-shape latticed shell roof structure through numerical analysis and field measurements. The depropping procedure consists of six steps. For each step, the joint displacements and member internal forces of the roof structure were first predicated using a numerical model. Based on the simulations results, instruments as vibrating wire strain gauge, total station, accelerometer and global positioning system (GPS) were installed on the structure to monitor the actual displacements and variations of structural members' internal forces during the depropping procedure. The GPS data are compared with total station measurements to learn its applicability for monitoring depropping procedure of large roof structure. The comparison between the numerical results and field measurements demonstrates that the suggested simulation method is reasonable in the sense that the variation trend of deflection and internal forces of the structure can be captured. The GPS technology gives more accuracy measurements in horizontal displacement than vertical deformation. A combination of GPS technology and total station can increase the displacement measurement accuracy.
Analysis and estimation of horizontal and vertical components of positioning standard deviation in absolute GPS positioning
Authors: Chang Z. , Gong H.
Published: March 2011

The absolute GPS positioning technique, especially precise point positioning (PPP), has been widely applied in a variety of engineering fields. Since the requirements for horizontal and vertical components of positioning standard deviations vary greatly in different applications, it is necessary to study the method of estimating the horizontal and vertical components of positioning standard deviation. In present paper, under the assumption of approximately superseding the Geoid with the WGS-84 ellipsoid surface, the authors analyze the real implications of the horizontal and vertical components of positioning standard deviation in absolute GPS positioning, then derive the estimate formulae for the horizontal and vertical components of positioning standard deviation by using Bursa-Wolf transformation as well as variance-covariance propagation law. Finally, a calculation example is presented.
Pullution of aromatic compounds and elements of a coal gangue dump from Fengfeng Coal Mine 5, China
Authors: Wang J. , Fan J. , Qin P.
Published: March 2011

Distribution and occurrence of aromatic compounds and elements in the coal gangue dump from Fengfeng Coal Mine 5 and their influences on the environments have been studied in this paper. The samples were taken from the coal gangue dump, coal waste water stream and soil surface samples. These samples were analyzed by organic and inorganic methods. The results indicate that the coal gangues contain abundant harmful substances like aromatic hydrocarbon compounds, sulfur and trace elements. These harmful substances have influenced around area. In the soil surface, they influence the environments at least 750 m far from the coal gangue dump. In the waste water stream, they influence the water quality at least 2500 m far from the coal gangue dump.
Reliability analysis of shear connection in composite beams with profiled steel sheeting
Authors: Youcef M. , Mimoune M. , Mimoune F.
Published: March 2011

This paper describes the reliability analysis of shear connection in composite beams with profiled steel sheeting. The profiled steel sheeting had transverse ribs perpendicular to the steel beam. The level of safety of shear connection, and failure modes were determinate. An extensive parametric study was conducted to study the effects on the safety and behaviour of shear connection by changing the profiled steel sheeting geometries, the diameter and height of headed stud, as well as the strength of concrete. We compared the level safety calculated using the American specification, British standard and European code for headed stud shear connectors in composite slabs with profiled steel sheeting perpendicular to the steel beam. It is found that the design overestimated the level safety of shear connection.
PLC based peak load control for chemical industries
Authors: Mohan L. , Ashok S.
Published: March 2011

Chemical processes, employed for manufacturing basic chemicals are highly energy intensive. Due to escalating costs of fossil fuels and capacity addition, the electricity cost has been increasing for the last few decades. Electricity intensive industries find it very difficult to cope up with higher electricity charges particularly with time-of-use (TOU) tariffs implemented by the utilities with the objective of flattening the load curve. Load management programs focusing on reduced electricity use at the time of utility's peak demand, by strategic load shifting, is a viable option for industries to reduce their electricity cost. This paper presents an optimization model and formulation for load management of continuous process industries. The case study of a chemical industry is taken for conducting load management study. The formulation utilizes nonlinear programming technique for minimizing the electricity cost and reducing the peak demand, by rescheduling the loads, satisfying the industry constraints. Development of a generalized graphical user interface (GUI) in Visual Basic for implementing load management actions in industries and testing the GUI with the case study are done. Real time implementation of load management actions using Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is also investigated.
High efficiency 3D dye sensitized solar cells and the nano-surface control
Authors: Hayase Shuzi
Published: March 2011

Dye-sensitized solar cells consisting of tandem and hybrid structures are reported. It was proved that these new structures have a potential to harvest light with wide range of wavelength and increase open circuit voltage. In addition, modification of charge separation interfaces with organic molecules and dyes are discussed in terms of trap passivations which bring about high efficiency.
Coach's Autonomy Support is Especially Important for Varsity Compared to Club and Recreational Athletes
Authors: Sheldon Kennon M. , Watson Anna
Published: March 2011

Autonomy supportive (rather than controlling) coaching has been shown to be important for motivating athletes and for boosting their performance. However, is this especially true for elite-level athletes, who presumably face greater stress and performance pressure? To address this question we surveyed 264 student athletes (141 recreational, 83 club sport, and 40 varsity) playing on sports teams at a U.S. public university. As expected, varsity athletes were higher than the other groups in external reward motivation and lower in intrinsic motivation. Consistent with past self-determination theory findings, coach's autonomy supportive behavior predicted intrinsic and identified motivation in all athletes, and also positive appraisals of the team experience. Most importantly, coach's autonomy support was a significantly stronger predictor of these outcomes in the varsity compared to the recreational and club groups. These findings suggest that elite-level coaches should make special efforts to be autonomy supportive (rather than controlling) with their athletes.
Lingering Effects of Relative Age in Basketball Players' Post Athletic Career
Authors: Schorer Jörg , Neumann Johannes , Cobley Steve P. , Tietjens Maike , Baker Joseph
Published: March 2011

Relative age effects (RAEs) refer to participation and attainment variations among individuals within age-based cohorts, typical in youth-sport systems. While RAEs have often been demonstrated in active athletes, this exploratory study examined whether RAEs were influential on post athletic careers such as referees, coaches and commissioners. Data on 142 players, 26 coaches, 32 referees, and 16 commissioners were obtained from the First German basketball league for the 2009/10 season. Chi-square revealed significant RAEs for players, χ2(3) = 12.99, p < .01, ω = .30, and for the combined group of post-athletic careers, χ2(3) = 10.22, p = .02, ω = .37, suggesting a lingering long-term trend from youth basketball to post athletic careers. RAEs are a persistent inequality in high performance sport, potentially affecting post-athletic careers.
Craft Coaching and the ‘Discerning Eye’ of the Coach
Authors: Day Dave
Published: March 2011

When Victorian and Edwardian coaches used the term ‘science’ they were generally referring to technique or to systematic training regimes, and traditional coaching practices, derived from experience, observations and intuition, maintained credibility long after physiologists began investigating sport. Scientists testing athletes at the 1928 Olympics concluded that all aspects of training should become subject to scientific scrutiny and British academics became increasingly involved as the values of amateurism gave way to a greater pragmatism with respect to international competition, resulting in physiologists assuming responsibility for traditional aspects of coaching practice. This article utilises two areas in which physiology has embedded itself into the coaching milieu, talent identification and the prevention of overtraining, to demonstrate that these issues had long been familiar territory to Victorian and Edwardian coaches and to suggest that the contribution of similar experienced and innovative coaches, utilising both explicit scientific and implicit craft knowledge, needs to be sustained in an age of scientific rationalism.
Pharmacokinetics of Oral Prulifloxacin Capsules in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Zou Jing , Chen Lu , Yu Jiying , He Lin , Xiao Hongtao , Li Jinqi , Bian Yuan , Tong Rongsheng , Wu Zhengzhong
Published: March 2011

The main objective of this paper is to investigate the pharmacokinetics of NM394 (an active metabolite of prulifloxacin) and evaluate the dose relationship and accumulation characteristics after single and multiple doses of prulifloxacin. Thirty healthy volunteers were given 132 mg, 264 mg, and 528 mg of prulifloxacin capsules in a randomized test corresponding to low, medium and high groups for single dose trial. With one-week washout period, 264 mg of prulifloxacin capsules were given to eight volunteers of the medium group for multiple doses trial. The concentration of NM394 in serum was determined by a sensitive HPLC method and its pharmacokinetic parameters were analyzed by DAS2.0.1 and evaluated by SPSS statistic software (version 13.0). Various parameters were determined. Numerical experiments show that the pharmacokinetic parameters of NM394 displayed first order linear pharmacokinetic character. There are no big differences in pharmacokinetic characteristics of NM394 between single and multiple doses. Almost no significant accumulation of drugs is observed after multiple doses of 264 mg per day for 7 d and chronopharmacokinetics were first observed.
BP for the Natures, Flavour, Meridian Tropism of Chinese Medicine and Hepatoprotective Effect
Authors: Liu Jue-Fu , Lu Xia
Published: March 2011

Estimating the risk of hepatoprotective effect for patients is necessary, since it affects the choice of treatment. This problem involves analysing data of traditional Chinese medicine which has complicated uncertain relation between nature, flavor and meridian tropism. We use Back Propagation (BP) neural network model to extend traditional statistical model. The model has been proved as one kind of fleetness, reliable evaluation method by example.
Prediction of the Mechanisms of Salvia Miltiorrhiza against Atherosclerosis Using Text Mining and Network-Based Analysis
Authors: Chen Gao , Lu Ai-Ping
Published: March 2011

We combine text mining with methods of systems biology for the first time, to predict functional networks for therapeutic mechanisms of Traditional Chinese Medicine in atherosclerosis. The text mining results indicated atherosclerosis highly associated with salvia miltiorrhiza, and six genes associated with both. Protein-protein interaction information for these genes from databases and Literature data was searched and visualized using cytoscape. Four highly-connected regions were detected by IPCA algorithm to infer significant complexes or pathways in this network. The most relevant functions and pathways extracted from these subnetworks by BiNGO tool were related to I-kappaB kinase/NF-kappaB cascade, regulation of cellular process, regulation of biological process, which were consistent with previously published studies. Interestingly, insulin receptor signaling pathway was also implicated by network-based analysis in our study. Therefore, it was suggested that therapeutic mechanisms of salvia miltiorrhiza in atherosclerosis should be involved in increasing sensitivity and/or responsiveness to metabolic actions of insulin.
The Resistance and the Gene Homology to Clinical Isolates of Acinetobacter Calcoaceticus-Baumannii
Authors: Xie Fen , Ding Yong-Juan , Zhang Xia-Lan , Lü Juan , Li Jian-Qiang , Zhou Shao-Dan
Published: March 2011

In this paper, the resistance and the gene homology of Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-baumannii strains which were isolated clinically from the Fourth and the Third People's Hospital of Wuxi, China was studied. The prevalence and distribution was observed and recorded. The susceptibility testing was performed with agar dilution technique and compared with the genotype was investigated with randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) technique. To these strains, the resistant rates of Ampicillin, Piperacillin, Cefazolin, Nitrofurantoin were 100%, those of Imipenem, Meropenem and Cefoperazone/Sulbactam were 27%, 15% and 12%, respectively. The resistant rates of other β-lactams and quinolones were higher than 60%. The resistant rates of aminoglycosides were higher than 75%. The type A and D included 35 strains and 22 strains, respectively. The same genotype separated from the same and the different endemic areas. It is sensitive to Imipenem, Meropenem and Cefoperazone/Sulbactam among the 100 strains of Acinetobacter calcoaceticus –baumannii. Maybe the 2 strains are Acinetobacter calcoaceticus and 98 strains are Acinetobacter baumannii. The type A and D are the major types, which show cross-transmission in two hospitals in Wuxi.
Knowledge-Based Approach to Assembly Sequence Planning
Authors: Wu Meiping , Prabhu Vittal , Li Xiaoyu
Published: March 2011

Assembly sequence planning plays a major role in the manufacturing industry. There are still many challenges in the area of assembly planning. One of the significant reasons is the weakness in effective description of assembly knowledge and information. With the purpose of reducing computational complexity, this paper presents a method based on engineering knowledge approach to the assembly sequence planning. The DACG (Directed Assembly Connection Graph) proposed provides an appropriate way to express both geometric information and non-geometric knowledge. In order to increase the assembly planning efficiency, the DACG includes engineering knowledge and semantic in design, manufacturing and assembly fields. Product semantic information model could offer much useful information for designer to finish the assembly (process) design and make right decision in that process. A product assembly planning example is presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. Preliminary experience with the approach indicates the potential to reduce lead times and thereby can help in completing new product launch projects on time.
Using Mean-Shift to Improve Active Shape Model Search
Authors: Wei Dai , Shi-Tong Wang
Published: March 2011

In this paper we introduce a new method for locating shapes. The method is based on active shape model, and combining with mean shift to improve local search in the region around each landmark. Bringing new local descriptor and search strategy to active shape model search, mean shift can improve active shape model in both precision and speed.
Component Assessment Data Requirements from Creep-Fatigue Tests
Authors: Holdsworth S. R.
Published: March 2011

Typically, the lifetime assessment of high temperature components, for which both creep and fatigue are principal damage mechanisms, involves (1) the determination of the stress/strain state at critical locations and (2) a numerical evaluation of the consequential damage condition. Until recently, there has not been a standard procedure specifically covering creep-fatigue testing practices. Creep-fatigue tests had been performed for many years, but the reliability and the form of the information generated was dependent on the expertise and specific interests of individual test laboratories. This situation is now resolved by the publication of a new ASTM standard based on an Electrical Power Research Institute (EPRI) led initiative. The way in which the guidance contained in this new standard specifically aims to provide creep-fatigue data requirements for defect-free component assessment is examined. Cyclic/hold tests, usually involving a simple cycle shape representative of the service transients experienced by the target component, are particularly informative in the provision of data to indicate the concurrent influences of cyclic loading on creep deformation characteristics and creep deformation on cyclic plastic response. The crack initiation endurances of such tests also provide the basis of creep-fatigue damage summation representations for a given material. Sequential creep-fatigue testing can be used to quantify the effects of prior cyclic deformation on creep rupture or prior creep deformation on fatigue endurance. The use of such test methods is also considered.
A Novel Technique for Performing a Tongue-Lip Adhesion—The Tongue Suspension Technique
Authors: Mann Robert J. , Neaman Keith C. , Hill Brian , Bajnrauh Robert , Martin Matthew D.
Published: March 2011

Background

The tongue-lip adhesion has undergone several modifications in an attempt to reduce surgical complications and failure rates. Current techniques rely on the use of a button at the tongue base for suspension, which raises concerns about possible aspiration and interference with oral motor function and bottle-feeding. A new technique for tongue-lip adhesion is proposed that adds a tongue suspension to the standard surgical adhesion.

Methods

A total of 22 patients with Pierre Robin sequence who received a tongue-lip adhesion via a tongue suspension technique were reviewed. The surgical technique differs from the standard surgical approach by the use of a suture weave across the base of the tongue instead of a standard button to suspend the tongue anteriorly.

Results

Average age at the time of tongue-lip adhesion was 13.9 days, with a mean operative time of 88.8 minutes. A marked improvement in postoperative oxygenation was seen in the majority of patients. One dehiscence occurred secondary to a traumatic postoperative extubation, eventually requiring a tracheostomy for subglottic stenosis.

Conclusion

A technical innovation for performing a tongue-lip adhesion using a tongue suspension in conjunction with a standard transverse adhesion of the lip is described. The advantage of the tongue-lip adhesion with suspension includes immediate postoperative extubation, as well as removal of concerns regarding button aspiration and possible interference in early developmental oral motor function and bottle-feeding. This technique is reproducible, expanding the craniofacial surgeon's armamentarium for the management of difficult airways in Pierre Robin sequence.
Disparities in Cancer Care in Australia and the Pacific
Authors: Olver Ian , Marine Franca , Grogan Paul
Published: March 2011

Disparities in cancer care across populations become apparent only when there is a cancer registry to record the cancer incidence and mortality statistics and data capture is comprehensive. In Australia, one of the obvious disparities is geography, with mortality in some cancers being worse with increasing remoteness. The reasons are not just poorer access to screening and treatment but lifestyle and occupational factors which encompass increased cancer risk factors compared with urban counterparts. There are also higher proportions of lower socioeconomic groups and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, both of which in addition to remoteness have poorer cancer outcomes. Indigenous Australians have a higher exposure to risk factors of smoking and obesity, live remotely, and have lower participation rates in screening and treatment than non–Indigenous Australians. Immigrants to Australia from diverse backgrounds have a lower incidence of the common cancers and a lower overall mortality. They have a different spectrum of cancers such as more liver cancer because of their exposure to hepatitis B. The Māori in New Zealand are well studied and display disparities in cancer outcomes similar to Indigenous Australians. There is less known of the Pacific Islanders, but they often have worse outcomes than Europeans living in the same environment, a greater exposure to risk factors, and the added problem of often needing to travel from the Pacific Islands to New Zealand for treatment. Poorer socioeconomic status is the other major factor associated with poorer outcomes in cancer treatment. Often, low socioeconomic status groups have lifestyles with higher levels of smoking and obesity, do not participate in screening as readily, and may not be able to afford unsubsidized treatments such as high-cost drugs.
Numerical simulation of a premixed turbulent V-shaped flame
Authors: El Khazen , Benticha H. , Demoulin F.X.
Published: March 2011

de ROUEN, Saint Etienne du Rouvray, Cedex, France
AU Jemni A.
AF Laboratoire d?Etudes de Syst?mes thermiques et Energ?tique (LESTE), Monastir, Tunisie
KW premixed turbulent combustion % numerical simulation % V-flame
KR nema
AB In this paper we simulate a turbulent premixed V-shape flame stabilized on a
hot wire. The device used is composed of a vertical combustion chamber where
the methane-air mixture is convected upwards with a mean velocity of 4ms-1.
The flow was simulated running Fluent 6.3, which numerically solved the
stationary Favre-averaged mass balance; Navier-Stokes equations; combustion
progress variable, and k-? equations on a two-dimensional numerical mesh. We
model gaseous mixture, ignoring Soret and Dufour effects and radiation heat
transfer. The progress variable balance equation was closed using Eddy Break
Up model. The results of our simulations allow us to analyze the influence
of equivalence ratio and the turbulent intensity on the properties of the
flame (velocity, fluctuation, progress variable and Thickness of flame).This
work gives us an idea on the part which turbulence can play to decrease the
risks of extinction and instabilities caused by the lean premixed
combustion.
nema
The Role of Epigenetics in Resistance to Cisplatin Chemotherapy in Lung Cancer
Authors: O’Byrne Kenneth J. , Barr Martin P. , Gray Steven G.
Published: March 2011

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common cause of cancer related death in the world. Cisplatin and carboplatin are the most commonly used cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents to treat the disease. These agents, usually combined with drugs such as gemcitabine or pemetrexed, induce objective tumor responses in only 20–30% of patients. Aberrant epigenetic regulation of gene expression is a frequent event in NSCLC. In this article we review the emerging evidence that epigenetics and the cellular machinery involved with this type of regulation may be key elements in the development of cisplatin resistance in NSCLC.
Antioxidant Bibenzyl Derivatives from Notholaena nivea Desv.
Authors: Cioffi Giuseppina , Montoro Paola , Ugaz Olga Lock De , Vassallo Antonio , Severino Lorella , Pizza Cosimo , Tommasi Nunziatina De
Published: March 2011

Four new bibenzyl derivatives were isolated, together with other known bibenzyls, by bioassay-guided fractionation of a CHCl3-MeOH extract of Notholaena nivea Desv. (Pteridaceae) aerial parts. The structures were elucidated by NMR, ESIMS and other spectral analyses. Their antioxidative effects towards superoxide, lipidic peroxidation and the 2,2'-azino-bis-3-ethilbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical were assayed. Results showed that the compound 3,12-dihydroxy-5-methoxybibenzyl (6) is the most active compound in the ABTS free-radical scavenging test, while in the coupled oxidation of β-carotene and linoleic acid assay the compound 5,12-dihydroxy-3-methoxydibenzyl-6-carboxylic acid (1) exerted the highest activity after 1h. A superoxide anion enzymatic test was also carried out and the results were confirmed by an inhibition of xanthine oxidase activity assay. The putative protective role played by compounds 1 and 6 on the injurious effects of reactive oxygen metabolites on the intestinal epithelium, using a Caco-2 human cell line, was investigated. H2O2-induced alterations were prevented by preincubating the cells with compounds 1 and 6.
Mapping Topography Changes and Elevation Accuracies Using a Mobile Laser Scanner
Authors: Vaaja Matti , Hyyppä Juha , Kukko Antero , Kaartinen Harri , Hyyppä Hannu , Alho Petteri
Published: March 2011

Laser measurements have been used in a fluvial context since 1984, but the change detection possibilities of mobile laser scanning (MLS) for riverine topography have been lacking. This paper demonstrates the capability of MLS in erosion change mapping on a test site located in a 58 km-long tributary of the River Tenojoki (Tana) in the sub-arctic. We used point bars and river banks as example cases, which were measured with the mobile laser scanner ROAMER mounted on a boat and on a cart. Static terrestrial laser scanner data were used as reference and we exploited a difference elevation model technique for describing erosion and deposition areas. The measurements were based on data acquisitions during the late summer in 2008 and 2009. The coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.93 and a standard deviation of error 3.4 cm were obtained as metrics for change mapping based on MLS. The root mean square error (RMSE) of MLS‑based digital elevation models (DEM) for non-vegetated point bars ranged between 2.3 and 7.6 cm after correction of the systematic error. For densely vegetated bank areas, the ground point determination was more difficult resulting in an RMSE between 15.7 and 28.4 cm.
Le modèle d'échanges commerciaux Mec 2
Authors: Mathis Jean , Régniez Jacques
Published: March 2011

Le modèle d'échanges commerciaux,

par Jean Mathis et Jacques Régniez.

Mec 2 est un modèle du commerce extérieur de la France en six produits destiné à être utilisé dans le cadre de la préparation des budgets économiques. La modélisation du commerce extérieur des trois produits industriels (biens intermédiaires, biens d'équipement et biens de consommation) fait intervenir les capacités de production, les demandes (intérieures et extérieures) et des variables de prix relatifs. Les estimations conduisent à une très forte substituante entre la demande intérieure et le solde extérieur. Un milliard de plus de demande d'un produit se traduit par un déficit du commerce de ce même produit de, respectivement, 0,6, 0,8 et 0,5 milliard.

Le commerce extérieur en produits agricoles et des industries agroalimentaires est modélisé en solde (et non séparément en exportations et importations); celui-ci dépend de l'excédent de la production par rapport à la demande intérieure et de la plus ou moins grande utilisation des capacités de stockage existantes.

Différents effets variantiels sont présentés qui font ressortir, en particulier, la baisse d'efficacité de la dévaluation (en terme d'effets sur le solde en valeur) depuis la hausse du prix de l'énergie.
Réduction du temps de travail : une typologie du comportement des entreprises
Authors: Pépin Michel , Sardas Jean-Claude , Tonneau Dominique
Published: March 2011

Reduction of work time : a categorization of businesses

and how they are dealing with it,

by Michel Pépin, Jean-Claude Sardas, Dominique Tonneau.

The article gives the highlights of a research study carried out in 1981 (before the legislation creating a 39-hour work week and a fifth week of vacation) on how businesses are handling the reduction of hours worked. Twenty firms were studied, a group with widely varied characteristics, care was taken to note especially the problems particular to these differences.

The study suggests a classification of five types of business, in terms of their behavior. This grouping is based upon the greater or lesser ability to maneuver, taking into account the possibility of internal reorganization and the situation of the business externally, in the market. It includes the following items, giving the main characteristics of the problem:

Growth: the reduction of work hours is used as a base of operations, but it assumes an expanding market which thus allows the length of time equipment is used to be increased.

Reorganization: the firm employs a rationalization of its organization which permits it to maintain production while limiting or putting a freeze on hiring.

Productivity: in an organization which remains unchanged structurally, the reduction of work time is compensated, as far as possible, by using existing productivity reserves.

Hiring : for reasons peculiar to each business, the creation of employment is more or less proportional to the reduction of work hours. This means higher sales prices due to additional costs.

Repercussion: a situation identical to the preceding one, but here one runs up against financial obstacles; there are two possible solutions: no hiring and thus limiting production, or hiring continues but with a backlash effect on market prices and the risk that segments of the market will be lost.

The study also accents the difficulties connected with the new forms of organization in the working world.
Les modèles TVA
Authors: Coutière Antoine , Delpech Josette , Burfin Yann
Published: March 2011

The Vat Model,

by Antoine Coutière, Josette Delpech and Yann Burfin.

The first section, which is methodological, shows how National Accounts enable analysis of the formation and incidence of Value Added Tax (Vat). In particular, input-output statistics make it possible to show that Vat is not perfectly neutral, i.e. that it is borne not only by final consumers, but sometimes also by producers.

The second section examines data obtained using Vat models. The burden of Vat on National Accounting categories is analysed. Various simulations are carried out to examine the effects of changes in applicable rates or the scope of goods subject to the tax ; in this connection, some of the consequences of a total alignment with European legislation and of the July 1982 reform are presented. Finally, one possible approach to analysing the macro-economic effects of Vat is outlined.
Le modèle multinational Atlas première partie : les modèles par pays
Authors: Cellier François , Le Berre Ronan , Miqueu Didier
Published: March 2011

The multinational model Atlas, first part : the national models,

by François Cellier, Ronan Le Berre, Didier Miqueu.

The multinational model, Atlas, constructed by the modélisation and in ternational data bank section at the Forecast bureau, has been in use since autumn 1982 for making forecasts on Frances international environment and studying global scenarios associated with sundry hazards about raw material prices, exchange rates and economic policies, among other topics.

Atlas contains a model for each of the nine main Oecd countries together with the rest of the world's simplified representation divided into seventeen areas. Countries and regions are connected to each other with a model of Commerce describing global bilateral flows on a two-product basis : oil and non oil. The article is devoted to the national models, since the commerce model is to come out in a next Economie & Prévision issue.

Choosing specifications for national models results from a compromise between the findings of horizontal thematic research on the one hand and those of vertical country-basis research on the other hand.

The first part of the article is deroted to an overall introduction to national models, their common and different features. The importance given to the properties of each model in retrospective simulation as in variation is particularly underscored.

The second chapter explains how the relationships between household consumption and wages for every country are being dealt with. It gives one a clue to the sundry specifications, checked beforehand, and the contents of the choices that have been made.

The third part presents the US model relationships in full. Through that example, the logic and working of models are set out in detail , their properties are also exemplified by the results from the model working in retrospective simulation and in variation.
Denosumab: A New Injectable Treatment for Postmenopausal Osteoporosis
Authors: Whelan Anne Marie , Raman-Wilms Lalitha
Published: March 2011

Background/Introduction:

Osteoporosis results in a significant increase in fractures, leading to morbidity and mortality. Adherence is a concern with commonly used antiresorptive agents, the bisphosphonates. Denosumab, which inhibits bone resorption by a different mechanism and is administered subcutaneously every 6 months, may provide an advantage in decreasing fracture risk in those with osteoporosis.

Objective:

To review the available data with respect to the mechanism of action, efficacy and safety of denosumab for the management of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Methods:

Several databases were searched to identify phase III randomized controlled trials (RCT) that examined the effect of denosumab on bone mineral density (BMD) and/or fracture rate and the safety of denosumab in the management of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Results:

In 2 of the 4 trials identified, denosumab was significantly better than placebo at increasing BMD, and in 1 trial reduced the risk of vertebral, nonvertebral and hip fractures. No head-to-head trials comparing fracture risk reduction of denosumab to bisphosphonates were found, however, 2 trials did report increased BMD with denosumab compared to alendronate. In the 4 studies reviewed, adverse effects reported more frequently with denosumab included rash and eczema, as well as bronchitis and influenza-like illness. There is potential for an increased risk of other infections and malignancies.

Conclusions:

The results of RCT trials suggest that denosumab is effective at maintaining or increasing BMD compared to placebo or alendronate in women with either osteopenia or osteoporosis and in 1 trial demonstrated a significant reduction in fracture rate compared to placebo. Overall, denosumab appeared to be well tolerated in the studies reviewed. Continued monitoring is needed to determine long-term safety and efficacy.
Relationship Between Markers of Platelet Activation and Inflammation with Disease Activity in Wegener’s Granulomatosis
Authors: TOMASSON GUNNAR , LAVALLEY MICHAEL , TANRIVERDI KAHRAMAN , FINKIELMAN JAVIER D. , DAVIS JOHN C. , HOFFMAN GARY S. , McCUNE W. JOSEPH , St. CLAIR E. WILLIAM , SPECKS ULRICH , SPIERA ROBERT , STONE JOHN H. , FREEDMAN JANE E. , MERKEL PETER A.
Published: March 2011

Objective.

There remains a need for biomarkers to guide therapy in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis. Our objective was to determine whether measures of platelet activation or inflammation are associated with disease activity in Wegener’s granulomatosis (WG).

Methods.

Study subjects were participants in a clinical trial. Soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L), C-reactive protein, interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-8, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), P-selectin, vascular endothelial growth factor, and proteinase 3 (PR3)-specific ANCA were measured by ELISA using plasma samples obtained at baseline (active disease), at remission, and prior to, during, and after first flares. Disease activity was assessed by the Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score for WG (BVAS/WG). Association of biomarkers with disease activity was determined with conditional logistic and linear regression.

Results.

Over a mean followup of 27 months, 180 subjects underwent 2044 visits; markers were measured in 563 samples. Longitudinally, all markers other than IL-6 were associated with disease activity. The strongest associations for active disease at baseline versus remission were observed for sCD40L (OR 4.72, 95% CI 2.47–9.03), P-selectin (OR 6.26, 95% CI 2.78–14.10), PR3-ANCA (OR 9.41, 4.03–21.99), and inversely for MCP-1 (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.22–0.57). BVAS/WG increased by 0.80 (95% CI 0.44–1.16), 0.83 (95% CI 0.42–1.25), and 0.81 (95% CI 0.48–1.15) per unit-increase in PR3-ANCA, sCD40L, and P-selectin, respectively; and decreased by 1.54 (95% CI 0.96–2.12) per unit-increase in MCP-1.

Conclusion.

Cytokines arising from within the circulation, including those of platelet activation, correlate with disease activity in WG.
Innovation in working practices: an anthropological perspective
Authors: Bray Zoe
Published: March 2011

Résumé Comment est-ce que l’anthropologie peut nous aider à répondre à la question de l’innovation durable dans l’ingénierie de projet ? Dans cet article nous rappelons la nature d’une approche anthropologique, et nous regardons quelques unes des recherches anthropologiques faites dans le domaine du travail. Ainsi, cet article souligne l’importance de considérer les diverses dimensions de l’interaction sociale, thème de préoccupation central à l’anthropologie. Ceci entame aussi une réflexion sur le concept de l’innovation, qui est elle-même une construction sociale.
Diseño de redes neuronales con aprendizaje combinado de retropropagación y búsqueda aleatoria progresiva aplicado a la determinación de austenita retenida en aceros TRIP
Authors: Toda-Caraballo I. , Garcia-Mateo C. , Capdevila C. , Capdevila C.
Published: March 2011

A partir de los años noventa, el interés que los aceros TRIP despiertan en la industria ha producido un incremento considerable de su estudio y aplicación. En este trabajo, aprovechando la flexibilidad que las redes neuronales proporcionan para la modelización de propiedades complejas, se ha abordado el problema de la determinación de la austenita retenida en los aceros TRIP. Una combinación de dos algoritmos de aprendizaje (retropropagación y búsqueda aleatoria progresiva) de la red neuronal ha permitido crear un modelo que predice la cantidad de austenita retenida en aceros multifase con bajo contenido en aluminio y silicio en función de los parámetros de procesado.
Resistencia y estabilidad térmica del compuesto Cu-Al2O3 obtenido con oxidación interna
Authors: Rajkovic V. , Božic D. , Devečerski A. , Bojanic S. , Jovanovic M. T.
Published: March 2011

El objetivo del trabajo es el estudio de los efectos de la pulverización con altas energías sobre la resistencia, estabilidad térmica y conductividad eléctrica del compuesto Cu-Al2O3. El polvo pre-aleado de cobre, obtenido a través de la atomización con gas inerte y con un contenido de 3wt. % Al, se molió durante 20 h en el molino planetario de bolas dando lugar a la oxidación in situ del aluminio con el oxígeno del aire. El compuesto compactado se ha obtenido mediante prensado en caliente en atmósfera de argón a 800 °C durante 3 h y a una presión de 35MPa. La caracterización microestructural se hizo a través de microscopia óptica, microscopia electrónica de barrido (SEM), microscopia electrónica de transmisión (TEM) y difracción de rayos X (XRD). También se realizaron medidas de micro-dureza, de conductividad eléctrica y de densidad. La micro-dureza de los compuestos compactados (102 HV) aumentó casi tres veces comparada con la de los obtenidos del polvo Cu-3 wt. % Al (102 HV). El tamaño de grano del compactado Cu-3 wt. % Al fue 75 y 45 nm después de 5 y 20 h de pulverización, respectivamente. El pequeño aumento del tamaño de grano y la pequeña caída de micro-dureza del compuesto Al2O3 indican alta estabilidad térmica durante la exposición a altas temperaturas de 800 °C.
Revisión sobre nitruraciones láser de aleaciones de titanio
Authors: Pérez-Artieda M. G. , Fernández-Carrasquilla J.
Published: March 2011

Una técnica comúnmente utilizada para la mejora de la resistencia a desgaste de las aleaciones de titanio es la nitruración de la superficie, utilizando la deposición física o química de vapor, la implantación iónica o el refundido de la superficie en atmósferas que contienen nitrógeno. En esta revisión se estudian los sistemas de nitruración con tecnología láser, utilizados para tratar la superficie de diferentes aleaciones de titanio. Las aleaciones de titanio son un material alternativo al acero, muy atractivo para aplicaciones que requieren alta resistencia a temperaturas elevadas, puesto que tienen una relación resistencia-dureza elevada y buena resistencia a corrosión. En aplicaciones que requieren buena resistencia a desgaste, las aleaciones de titanio suponen un problema, debido a sus pobres características tribológicas. La utilización de aleaciones de titanio junto con un tratamiento de nitruración adecuado, podría permitir la sustitución del acero en diferentes aplicaciones, consiguiendo una disminución en el peso de los componentes fabricados.
Mapas de España de corrosividad del zinc en atmósferas rurales
Authors: Chico B. , De la Fuente D. , Vega J. M. , Morcillo M.
Published: March 2011

El interés en la elaboración de mapas de corrosividad atmosférica radica en su utilidad para disponer de información sobre el alcance del fenómeno de corrosión atmosférica en un determinado punto geográfico. Con ello se facilitaría la selección del material metálico más adecuado, tanto desde el punto de vista de resistencia a la corrosión como económicamente, y definir, asimismo, el tipo de protección idónea para una durabilidad determinada. En la práctica se trata de una tarea difícil, debido a los numerosos factores climáticos de los que depende la corrosión atmosférica. Este trabajo resume un proyecto financiado por BP Solar para el desarrollo de mapas de España para la corrosividad atmosférica del zinc, tanto de corrosión anual como de corrosión a largo plazo (15 años), que determinará el tipo de protección requerido en las estructuras metálicas utilizadas en sistemas fotovoltaicos para atmósferas rurales, prácticamente exentas de contaminación. La metodología seguida ha sido la aplicación de ecuaciones dosis/respuesta (funciones de daño), a partir de las cuales se estima la velocidad de corrosión en función de variables meteorológicas. Estas variables se han obtenido a partir de información procedente de estaciones meteorológicas ubicadas en la España peninsular.
Influencia de la adición de cobalto y cromo en el proceso de precipitación en una aleación de Cu-4Ti
Authors: Donoso E.
Published: March 2011

Mediante calorimetría diferencial de barrido (DSC) y medidas de microdureza se estudió la influencia de la adición de 0,5 atómico % de cobalto y 1 atómico % de cromo en el endurecimiento por precipitación en una aleación de Cu-4Ti. El análisis de las curvas calorimétricas muestra, en la aleación binaria, la presencia de dos reacciones exotérmicas traslapadas (etapas 1 y 2), atribuidas a la formación de partículas de Cu4Ti y Cu3Ti en la matriz de cobre. Las curvas DSC para la aleación de Cu-4Ti-0,5Co muestra tres efectos exotérmicos (etapas 3 y 4 traslapadas y etapa 5), asociadas a la formación de las fases Ti2Co, TiCo y Cu4Ti, respectivamente. Las curvas DSC para la aleación de Cu-4Ti-1Cr muestra tres reacciones exotérmicas (etapas 6, 7 y 9) y un pico endotérmico (etapa 8). Las reacciones exotérmicas corresponden a la formación de partículas de Cr2Ti, Cu4Ti y Cu3Ti, respectivamente, y la reacción endotérmica está asociada a la disolución de las partículas de Cr2Ti. Las energías de activación, evaluadas a partir del método de Kissinger modificado, resultaron más bajas que las correspondientes a la difusión de cobalto, cromo y titanio en cobre. Los parámetros cinéticos se obtuvieron a partir de un método de convolución basado en el formalismo de Johnson-Mehl-Avrami (JMA).Medidas de microdureza Vickers corroboraron la formación de las fases indicadas. Estas medidas también confirmaron el efecto de la adición de cobalto y cromo en el endurecimiento de la aleación binaria.