bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multicenter Comparison of Seven 25Oh Vitamin D Automated Immunoassays / Multicentrično Poređenje Sedam Automatizovanih Imunoeseja Za 25Oh Vitamin D
Authors: Lippi Giuseppe , Salvagno Gian Luca , Fortunato Antonio , Dipalo Mariella , Aloe Rosalia , Rin Giorgio Da , Giavarina Davide
Published: May 2014

Background: The measurement of 25OH vitamin D continues to grow in clinical laboratories. The aim of this multicenter study was to compare the results of seven automated commercial immunoassays with a reference HPLC technique.

Methods: One hundred and twenty consecutive outpatient serum samples were centrifuged, divided in aliquots, frozen and shipped to the participating laboratories. 25OH Vita - min D was measured with a reference HPLC system and with seven automated commercial immunoassays (Roche Cobas E601, Beckman Coulter Unicel DXI 800, Ortho Vitros ES, DiaSorin Liaison, Siemens Advia Centaur, Abbott Architect i System and IDS iSYS).

Results: Compared to the reference method, the regression coefficients ranged from 0.923 to 0.961 (all p<0.001). The slope of Deming fit ranged from 0.95 to 1.06, whereas the intercept was comprised between -15.2 and 9.2 nmol/L. The bias from the reference HPLC technique varied from 14.5 to 8.7 nmol/L. The minimum performance goal for bias was slightly exceeded by only one immunoassay. The agreement between HPLC and the different immunoassays at 50 nmol/L 25OH Vitamin D varied between 0.61 and 0.85 (all p<0.001). The percentage of samples below this cut-off was significantly different with only one immunoassay.

Conclusions:The excellent correlation with the reference HPLC technique attests that all seven automated immuno - assays may be reliably used for routine assessment of 25OH-D in clinical laboratories. The significant bias among the different methods seems mostly attributable to the lack of standardization and calls for additional efforts for improving harmonization of 25OH-D immunoassays.
The Relative Impacts of Design Effects and Multiple Imputation on Variance Estimates: A Case Study with the 2008 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey
Authors: Lewis Taylor , Goldberg Elizabeth , Schenker Nathaniel , Beresovsky Vladislav , Schappert Susan , Decker Sandra , Sonnenfeld Nancy , Shimizu Iris
Published: May 2014

The National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey collects data on office-based physician care from a nationally representative, multistage sampling scheme where the ultimate unit of analysis is a patient-doctor encounter. Patient race, a commonly analyzed demographic, has been subject to a steadily increasing item nonresponse rate. In 1999, race was missing for 17 percent of cases; by 2008, that figure had risen to 33 percent. Over this entire period, single imputation has been the compensation method employed. Recent research at the National Center for Health Statistics evaluated multiply imputing race to better represent the missing-data uncertainty. Given item nonresponse rates of 30 percent or greater, we were surprised to find many estimates’ ratios of multiple-imputation to single-imputation estimated standard errors close to 1. A likely explanation is that the design effects attributable to the complex sample design largely outweigh any increase in variance attributable to missing-data uncertainty.
Surface and subsurface reworking by storms on a Cambrian carbonate platform: evidence from limestone breccias and conglomerates
Authors: Chen Jitao
Published: May 2014

Some limestone breccias and conglomerates from the Furongian (Late Cambrian) Chaomidian Formation (Shandong Province, China) were investigated in order to understand the depositional and deformational processes induced by storms. The sediments under study occur in a hummocky cross-stratified peloidal grainstone layer. The limestone conglomerates consist of well-rounded clasts that are mostly flat-lying or imbricated, and have erosional bases. They formed by surface reworking (erosion and rip-up) of thin-bedded grainstones by storm waves and currents. The limestone breccias consist of subangular to subrounded clasts of grainstone, which are often associated with small-scale grainstone clastic dykes. The breccias and dykes resulted from subsurface soft-sediment deformation (i.e., differential liquefaction and fluidization of heterogeneously cemented carbonate grains), most likely triggered by storm-wave loading. The limestone breccias and conglomerates bear important implications for understanding the reworking mechanisms of storms on ancient carbonate platforms
Metamodels for New Designs of Outer-Rotor Brushless Synchronous Electric Motors
Authors: Dirba J. , Lavrinovicha L.
Published: May 2014

The authors consider the possibilities to synthesise metamodels for the analysis and optimisation of brushless synchronous motors. The metamodels are presented for new designs of the outer-rotor permanent magnet synchronous motor and the outer-rotor reluctance motor. The metamodels are synthesised based on the results obtained by the numerical calculations of magnetic field taking into account magnetic saturation. Analysis of the results for the motor magnetic field and tests of the metamodels at the selected and intermediate points shows that these can be synthesised with acceptable accuracy using numerical calculations instead of expensive real experiments.
Power Generation Investment Planning in a Modern Power System With High Share of Renewables
Authors: Oleinikova I. , Ruksans O. , Turcik M.
Published: May 2014

This article is focused on investment planning in power generation industry, which becomes an important direction of research under the conditions of newly formed environment of electricity market. The authors emphasize the key role of effective instruments and methods for estimation of the costs and economic efficiency of a generating capacity and its adequacy in a modern power system. In the paper, cost-based concepts are analyzed which form a basis for decision-making and long-term planning of investments in the power generation sector for a power system with high share of renewable energy sources.
Wear Calculation for Sliding Friction Pairs
Authors: Springis G. , Rudzitis J. , Avisane A. , Leitans A.
Published: May 2014

One of the principal objectives of modern production process is the improvement of quality level; this means also guaranteeing the required service life of different products and increase in their wear resistance. To perform this task, prediction of service life of fitted components is of crucial value, since with the development of production technologies and measuring devices it is possible to determine with ever increasing precision the data to be used also in analytical calculations. Having studied the prediction theories of wear process that have been developed in the course of time and can be classified into definite groups one can state that each of them has shortcomings that might strongly impair the results thus making unnecessary theoretical calculations. The proposed model for wear calculation is based on the application of theories from several branches of science to the description of 3D surface micro-topography, assessing the material’s physical and mechanical characteristics, substantiating the regularities in creation of the material particles separated during the wear process and taking into consideration definite service conditions of fittings.
Stack Parameters Effect on the Performance of Anharmonic Resonator Thermoacoustic Heat Engine
Authors: Nouh Mostafa A. , Arafa Nadim M. , Abdel-Rahman Ehab
Published: May 2014

A thermoacoustic heat engine (TAHE) converts heat into acoustic power with no moving parts. It exhibits several advantages over traditional engines, such as simple design, stable functionality, and environment-friendly working gas. In order to further improve the performance of TAHE, stack parameters need to be optimized. Stack’s position, length and plate spacing are the three main parameters that have been investigated in this study. Stack’s position dictates both the efficiency and the maximum produced acoustic power of the heat engine. Positioning the stack closer to the pressure anti-node might ensure high efficiency on the expense of the maximum produced acoustic power. It is noticed that the TAHE efficiency can further be improved by spacing the plates of the stack at a value of 2.4 of the thermal penetration depth, ςk . Changes in the stack length will not affect the efficiency much as long as the temperature gradient across the stack, as a ratio of the critical temperature gradient Γ, is more than 1. Upon interpreting the effect of these variations, attempts are made towards reaching the engine’s most powerful operating point.
Investigation of Design Features of Compressor Casing Treatment
Authors: Nezym Vitaliy
Published: May 2014

Casing treatment in the form of circumferential grooves over a rotor blade tips is used for improvement of an axial compressor performance. Usually, these grooves extend compressor’s stall range (stable operational range) but decrease its efficiency. In the paper, there are presented main results of investigations on grooves that influence positively efficiency of compressor. There were investigated traditional (typical) and newly developed groove configurations. Certain grooves combine increase in efficiency with extension in stall range.
Key Factors for Development of Export in Polish Food Sector
Authors: Łącka Irena , Stefko Olga
Published: May 2014

Background: The accession of Poland to the European Union in 2004 facilitated increased exports of food products. It revealed a significant competitive advantage of Polish foreign trade in agri-food products compared to the countries of the ≫old EU≪. After nearly 10 years of Polish membership in the EU, the food sector has still a considerable potential, fostering a further increase in exports.

Objectives: The purpose of the paper was an attempt to establish the current determinants for the possibility to increase the exports of the Polish food sector and to identify potential opportunities and potential threats in the future. It was also decided to give an answer to the question whether any of the group factors has a greater impact on the development of exports than the other, and which issues play only a minor role in the development of international exchange.

Method: The analysis used involved the review of the relevant literature and forming a group of experts to specify the key factors of success in the food sector export. Basing on the experts research the STEEPVL analysis was carried out.

Results: It turned out that apart from a number of organizational, financial and marketing factors the most important are: the level of the IT infrastructure and the fluctuation of the demand on the international markets for the goods offered by the sector.

Conclusion: Therefore, the focus on the new distribution channels, integrated company management IT systems and changes in the demand on the market is the key challenge for securing the current potential and for the further development of the sector.
Weibull Decision Support Systems in Maintenance
Authors: Aboura Khalid , Agbinya Johnson I. , Eskandarian Ali
Published: May 2014

Background: The Weibull distribution is one of the most important lifetime distributions in applied statistics. Weibull analysis is the leading method in the world for fitting and analyzing lifetime data. We discuss one of the earliest decision support system for the assessment of a distribution for the parameters of the Weibull reliability model using expert information. We then present a different approach to assess the parameters distribution.

Objectives: The studies mentioned in this paper aimed to construct a distribution of the parameters of the Weibull reliability model and apply it in the domain of Maintenance Optimization.

Method: The parameters of the Weibull reliability model are considered random variables and a distribution for the parameters is assessed using informed judgment in the form of reliability estimates from vendor information, engineering knowledge or experience in the field.

Results: The results are the development of modern maintenance optimization models that can be embodied in decision support systems.

Conclusion: While the information management part is important in the building of maintenance optimization decision systems, the accuracy of the mathematical and statistical algorithms determines the level of success of the maintenance solution.
Mesenteric ischemia after capecitabine treatment in rectal cancer and resultant short bowel syndrome is not an absolute contraindication for radical oncological treatment
Authors: Perpar Ana , Brecelj Erik , Kozjek Nada Rotovnik , Anderluh Franc , Oblak Irena , Vidmar Marija Skoblar , Velenik Vaneja
Published: May 2014

Background. Thrombotic events, arterial or venous in origin, still remain a source of substantial morbidity and mortality in cancer patients. The propensity for their development in oncology patients is partially a consequence of the disease itself and partially a result of our attempts to treat it. One of the rarest and deadliest thromboembolic complications is arterial mesenteric ischemia. The high mortality rate is caused by its rarity and by its non-specific clinical presentation, both of which make early diagnosis and treatment difficult. Hence, most diagnoses and treatments occur late in the course of the disease. The issue survivors of arterial mesenteric ischemia may face is short bowel syndrome, which has become a chronic condition after the introduction of parenteral nutrition at home.

Case report. We present a 73-year-old rectal cancer patient who developed acute arterial mesenteric thrombosis at the beginning of the pre-operative radiochemotherapy. Almost the entire length of his small intestine, except for the proximal 50 cm of it, and the ascending colon had to be resected. After multi-organ failure his condition improved, and he was able to successfully complete radical treatment (preoperative radiotherapy and surgery) for the rectal carcinoma, despite developing short bowel syndrome (SBS) and being dependent upon home-based parenteral nutrition to fully cover his nutritional needs.

Conclusions. Mesenteric ischemia and resultant short bowel syndrome are not absolute contraindications for radical oncological treatment since such patients can still achieve long-term remission.
Aspects of Fibre Composite Machining
Authors: Zębala Wojciech , Matras Andrzej
Published: May 2014

Paper presents some aspects of fibre composite milling. Composites are particularly applied in the sectors such as aircraft, aerospace and automotive industries for they are light and relatively easy can be forming in the desired shapes. The purpose of research was optimization of free form milling considering the machined surface quality (mainly roughness). After proper cutting parameters selection (feed and cutting speed) the example parts with free form surface were machined.
Tool Life Reliability of Indexable Cutting Inserts
Authors: Janásek Adam , Čep Robert , Čepová Lenka , Kratochvíl Jiří , Vrba Vladimír , Petřkovská Lenka
Published: May 2014

This paper presents experimental testing of the cutting ability for indexable cutting inserts. The main goal will be to select a suitable test for determine the cutting abilities of cutting inserts. Nowadays all manufacturers want to achieve lower cutting forces so can permit higher speeds and feeds, without increasing the risk of chipping. For evaluating we had to design such testing procedure that it would be possible to compare and evaluate the cutting ability of the selected cutting inserts used for tests. In today’s competitive global market, quality and precision is the most important parameter. Tight tolerances and urgent deadlines are normal. In the machine tool business, companies must keep their cutting edge, or your company will lose its competitive edge.
Finishing Operation Turning of Flangesfor and Its Intensification
Authors: Stančeková Dana , Ščotka Peter , Hurka J.
Published: May 2014

The paper is focused on intensifying of turning of flange with a finishing operation. It provides a range of cutting plates suitable for turning, their experimental verification and evaluation. In the experimental measurements were made durability test selected cutting plates, compared to the parameters, wear, chips, measure and record made of machined surface roughness of the material.
Deformation Structures and Tool Wear during High-Speed Machining
Authors: Vasilko Karol
Published: May 2014

Tendencies towards increasing cutting speeds during machining can be observed recently. The first wave of increasing cutting speeds occured in the 60s of the previous century. However, suitable tool material was not available at that time. Increasing cutting speed is possible only following the development of cutting material, resistant against high temperatures, abrasive, adhesive and diffusive wear. It is obvious that the process of chip creation, quality of machined surface, dynamics of machining process and temperature of cutting change considerably with cutting speed. To be able to apply higher cutting speeds in production machining, it is necessary to know the dependence of those characteristics on cutting speed. Some of those phenomena, which are linked with cutting speed, will be explained in the paper. Key words: machining, cutting speed, tool durability, surface quality
Calculation of Bonded Joint of Window Panels Railway Vehicles
Authors: Pavlica Marek , Kratochvíl Jiří , Petrů Jana
Published: May 2014

The article is focused on the calculation of bonded joint of window panels railway vehicles. It is bonding with a 1K- polyurethane between glass and aluminum vehicle frame. In assessing the deformation is necessary first of all to assess changes of length due to thermal expansion. In addition, the calculation focuses on the glass plate deflection when passing trains and at last calculates the allowable voltage that is compared with the allowable stress. Calculation of bonded joints is very important for critical bonded joints, which may endanger the lives of people.
Optimization of High-Precision Reaming Holes with Small Diameters
Authors: Fiala Stanislav , Kouřil Karel , Pagáč Marek
Published: May 2014

In many applications, it is at the final machining precision holes, very advantageous to use a reamer whose cutting portion is made of a cermet, but also other performance materials (PCD, CBN). In these modern tools can be compared with the instruments of conventional cemented carbides apply significantly higher cutting speeds at longer blade life cutting edges. Specific problems and significant demands on the tech-nical design and implementation of these instruments arise from their use for reaming holes with small diameters. Especially in cases where it is required to have high productivity, a high cutting speed and feed. Especially for small diameter tools it is extre-mely difficult to supply the necessary amount of process fluid to the cutting point in real time. A sufficient quantity of liquid will not only provide cooling but also chip. The requirement is to achieve high operational reliability as well as reduced costs using intensive cutting conditions. This situation helps to solve the present structural design of composite reaming tools. Specifically, the optimization of the reamer for reaming holes ø 4,2 H8 with a depth of 8 mm in body components for the automotive industry .
Study of Force Relations when HPM Milling
Authors: Rakoci Jozef , Bobrovský Róbert , Czán Andrej , Stančeková Dana , Košút Mário , Ščotka Peter
Published: May 2014

Paper deals with forces´ ratios which are originated in milling process and applications where high-feed milling cutters are used for machining of steel by HPM technology. Particular elements of total cutting force F were written in the form of records by using three-element piezoelectric scanner of Kistler dynamometer. Comparison of static and dynamic loads during milling and application of tool movement orientation is considered as a result of experiments.
The Possibility of Using Numerical Modeling for Assessment of Welded Joint Load-Bearing Capacity / Možnost Využití Numerického Modelování Pro Posouzení Únosnosti Svařovaného Styčníku
Authors: Jurčíková Anežka , Rosmanit Miroslav
Published: May 2014

The subject of this paper the practical example of the steel lattice structure was used. Specifically, the joint consisting of H-profile bottom chord and a RHS (Rectangular Hollow Section) brace members has been elected. This particular joint has an exceptional feature which is a deviation from the geometric conditions required by Eurocode. The aim is to create a numerical model that will adequately reflect the actual behavior of this type of joint as well as comparison of such behavior with that expected on the basis of assessment according to standardized formulas.
Origin of Dangerous Conflict Situations on Intersection with Inappropriately Designed Building Elements / Vznik Nebezpečných Situací Na Křižovatce S Nevhodně Navrženými Stavebními Prvky
Authors: Křivda Vladislav , Mahdalová Ivana
Published: May 2014

The traffic safety on intersections is influenced by a lot of external factors - for example by inappropriately designed building elements. Inadequate radius of corners, narrow traffic lanes etc. can cause dangerous situations - above all, during passage by large vehicles. The paper describes conflict situations on intersection which are caused by inappropriately designed building elements above mentioned. The paper points out possibility of use of video analysis of conflict situations for monitoring of these phenomena and also necessity of correct verification of passage through intersection by rupture curves.
Acoustic Qualities of a Ceiling From Prefabricated Timber – Concrete Composite Panels / Akustické Vlastnosti Stropu Z Prefabrikovaných Dřevo – Betonových Spřažených Panelů
Authors: Oravec Pavel , Hamala Michal
Published: May 2014

This article describes the acoustic qualities (sound insulation and a level of acoustic pressure of impact sound) composite construction, composite timber - concrete ceiling. The qualities of the ceiling construction were discovered in the experimental measurements in the acoustic testing laboratory certified by CSI Zlin on a sample of a 3 x 3,6 m size. One type of a floor composition was created. Three phases of measurement have been performed on the tested floor. The aim of the experiment was to determine whether the devised ceiling can be used as a separating element between apartments.
Seismic Response Hydraulic Hammer on the Secundary Lining Tunnel / Seizmická Odezva Hydraulického Bouracího Kladiva Na Definitivní Ostění Tunelu
Authors: Pinka Miroslav , Stolárik Martin
Published: May 2014

Construction and subsequent tunnels collapse of the Jablunkovsk’s pass are already among well known of the professional public. After the collapse left part of the tunnel already standing with secondary lining. The second part was temporarilied concrete secured stopper and heavy bridge formwork. During the progress of work was already reached that stage when plug must be removed. The stopper was removed by combination of blasting operations and hydraulic hammer. This article deals with seismic effect hydraulic hammer. It is therefore a unique measuring effect of vibration on the final tunnel lining. A vibration downturn was monitored in the first meters of the lining and the records were evaluated in the amplitude and frequency resort. This assessment was made on the basis CSN 73 0040.
Updating in the Probabilistic Assessment of Existing Structures / Pravděpodobnostní Aktualizace Při Hodnocení Existujících Konstrukcí
Authors: Sýkora Miroslav , Holický Milan , Jung Karel
Published: May 2014

Assessment of existing structures should be based on the knowledge about as-built conditions including uncertainties concerning geometry, material properties, loading and environmental conditions. A crucial step of the assessment may be the evaluation of prior information and newly obtained measurements for which Bayesian approach provides a consistent framework. Updating of probabilistic distributions of basic variables, direct updating of failure probability and combination thereof can be applied.
Frame on Elastic Foundation / Rám Na Pružnom Podloží
Authors: Tvrdá Katarína
Published: May 2014

This article deals with calculation of the beam and frame rested on elastic foundation using matrix displacement method. An exact stiffness matrix of a beam element on elastic foundation is formulated. The beam is rested on elastic Winkler foundation. At the end off paper, same results of frame on elastic foundation are presented.
A Sustainable Dietetics Bridging Program: Development and Implementation in Atlantic Canada
Authors: Lordly Daphne , Guy Jennifer , Barry Paula , Garus Jennifer
Published: May 2014

A provincial focus on immigration and improved foreign credential recognition has led to an investigation of best practices and subsequent recommendations for the development and implementation of a sustainable university-based bridging program for internationally educated dietitians in Atlantic Canada. Data were collected from various sources and used to inform program decisions and direction. An advisory framework was established through a core group representing dietetics education and regulation and internationalization. Subsequently, a key stakeholder group was formed. As a result of this collaboration and research, a dietetics bridging framework was developed and a program pilot tested. Lessons learned may inform similar endeavours and highlight the importance of collaborative leadership and collaboration among multiple stakeholders, and of creatively addressing program sustainability issues while keeping learners (internationally educated dietitians) at the centre.
Conformal-Based Surface Morphing and Multi-Scale Representation
Authors: Lam Ka , Wen Chengfeng , Lui Lok
Published: May 2014

This paper presents two algorithms, based on conformal geometry, for the multi-scale representations of geometric shapes and surface morphing. A multi-scale surface representation aims to describe a 3D shape at different levels of geometric detail, which allows analyzing or editing surfaces at the global or local scales effectively. Surface morphing refers to the process of interpolating between two geometric shapes, which has been widely applied to estimate or analyze deformations in computer graphics, computer vision and medical imaging. In this work, we propose two geometric models for surface morphing and multi-scale representation for 3D surfaces. The basic idea is to represent a 3D surface by its mean curvature function, H, and conformal factor function λ, which uniquely determine the geometry of the surface according to Riemann surface theory. Once we have the (λ, H) parameterization of the surface, post-processing of the surface can be done directly on the conformal parameter domain. In particular, the problem of multi-scale representations of shapes can be reduced to the signal filtering on the λ and H parameters. On the other hand, the surface morphing problem can be transformed to an interpolation process of two sets of (λ, H) parameters. We test the proposed algorithms on 3D human face data and MRI-derived brain surfaces. Experimental results show that our proposed methods can effectively obtain multi-scale surface representations and give natural surface morphing results.
Disturbed Mental Imagery of Affected Body-Parts in Patients with Hysterical Conversion Paraplegia Correlates with Pathological Limbic Activity
Authors: Saj Arnaud , Raz Noa , Levin Netta , Ben-Hur Tamir , Arzy Shahar
Published: May 2014

Patients with conversion disorder generally suffer from a severe neurological deficit which cannot be attributed to a structural neurological damage. In two patients with acute conversion paraplegia, investigation with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) showed that the insular cortex, a limbic-related cortex involved in body-representation and subjective emotional experience, was activated not only during attempt to move the paralytic body-parts, but also during mental imagery of their movements. In addition, mental rotation of affected body-parts was found to be disturbed, as compared to unaffected body parts or external objects. fMRI during mental rotation of the paralytic body-part showed an activation of another limbic related region, the anterior cingulate cortex. These data suggest that conversion paraplegia is associated with pathological activity in limbic structures involved in body representation and a deficit in mental processing of the affected body-parts.
Correlating Remote Sensing Data with the Abundance of Pupae of the Dengue Virus Mosquito Vector, Aedes aegypti, in Central Mexico
Authors: Moreno-Madriñán Max , Crosson William , Eisen Lars , Estes Sue , Estes Jr. Maurice , Hayden Mary , Hemmings Sarah , Irwin Dan , Lozano-Fuentes Saul , Monaghan Andrew , Quattrochi Dale , Welsh-Rodriguez Carlos , Zielinski-Gutierrez Emily
Published: May 2014

Using a geographic transect in Central Mexico, with an elevation/climate gradient, but uniformity in socio-economic conditions among study sites, this study evaluates the applicability of three widely-used remote sensing (RS) products to link weather conditions with the local abundance of the dengue virus mosquito vector, Aedes aegypti (Ae. aegypti). Field-derived entomological measures included estimates for the percentage of premises with the presence of Ae. aegypti pupae and the abundance of Ae. aegypti pupae per premises. Data on mosquito abundance from field surveys were matched with RS data and analyzed for correlation. Daily daytime and nighttime land surface temperature (LST) values were obtained from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS)/Aqua cloud-free images within the four weeks preceding the field survey. Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM)-estimated rainfall accumulation was calculated for the four weeks preceding the field survey. Elevation was estimated through a digital elevation model (DEM). Strong correlations were found between mosquito abundance and RS-derived night LST, elevation and rainfall along the elevation/climate gradient. These findings show that RS data can be used to predict Ae. aegypti abundance, but further studies are needed to define the climatic and socio-economic conditions under which the correlations observed herein can be assumed to apply.
Transition from Cyclosporine-Induced Renal Dysfunction to Nephrotoxicity in an in Vivo Rat Model
Authors: Sereno José , Rodrigues-Santos Paulo , Vala Helena , Rocha-Pereira Petronila , Alves Rui , Fernandes João , Santos-Silva Alice , Carvalho Eugénia , Teixeira Frederico , Reis Flávio
Published: May 2014

Cyclosporin A (CsA), a calcineurin inhibitor, remain the cornerstone of immunosuppressive regimens, regardless of nephrotoxicity, which depends on the duration of drug exposure. The mechanisms and biomarkers underlying the transition from CsA-induced renal dysfunction to nephrotoxicity deserve better elucidation, and would help clinical decisions. This study aimed to clarify these issues, using a rat model of short- and long-term CsA (5 mg/kg bw/day) treatments (3 and 9 weeks, respectively). Renal function was assessed on serum and urine; kidney tissue was used for histopathological characterization and gene and/or protein expression of markers of proliferation, fibrosis and inflammation. In the short-term, creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels increased and clearances decreased, accompanied by glomerular filtration rate (GFR) reduction, but without kidney lesions; at that stage, CsA exposure induced proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), factor nuclear kappa B (NF-κβ) and Tumor Protein P53 (TP53) kidney mRNA up-regulation. In the long-term treatment, renal dysfunction data was accompanied by glomerular and tubulointerstitial lesions, with remarkable kidney mRNA up-regulation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and the antigen identified by monoclonal antibody Ki-67 (Mki67), accompanied by mTOR protein overexpression. Transition from CsA-induced renal dysfunction to nephrotoxicity is accompanied by modification of molecular mechanisms and biomarkers, being mTOR one of the key players for kidney lesion evolution, thus suggesting, by mean of molecular evidences, that early CsA replacement by mTOR inhibitors is indeed the better therapeutic choice to prevent chronic allograft nephropathy.
CopA3 Peptide Prevents Ultraviolet-Induced Inhibition of Type-I Procollagen and Induction of Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 in Human Skin Fibroblasts
Authors: Kim Dong-Hee , Kim Han-Hyuk , Kim Hyeon-Jeong , Jung Hyun-Gug , Yu Jae-Myo , Lee Eun-Su , Cho Yong-Hun , Kim Dong-In , An Bong-Jeun
Published: May 2014

Ultraviolet (UV) exposure is well-known to induce premature aging, which is mediated by matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) activity. A 9-mer peptide, CopA3 (CopA3) was synthesized from a natural peptide, coprisin, which is isolated from the dung beetle Copris tripartitus. As part of our continuing search for novel bioactive natural products, CopA3 was investigated for its in vitro anti-skin photoaging activity. UV-induced inhibition of type-I procollagen and induction of MMP-1 were partially prevented in human skin fibroblasts by CopA3 peptide in a dose-dependent manner. At a concentration of 25 μM, CopA3 nearly completely inhibited MMP-1 expression. These results suggest that CopA3, an insect peptide, is a potential candidate for the prevention and treatment of skin aging.
2,5-PRODAN Derivatives as Highly Sensitive Sensors of Low Solvent Acidity
Authors: Yoon Alexandra , Whitworth Laura , Wagner Joel , Abelt Christopher
Published: May 2014

Two 5-acyl-2-dimethylaminonaphthalene derivatives, one with a propionyl group and the other with a fused cyclohexanone ring, are investigated as sensors of H-bond-donating ability in protic solvents of low solvent acidity. Their fluorescence is highly quenched in protic solvents, and the quenching order of magnitude is linearly related to the H-bond-donating ability of the solvent as quantified by the solvent acidity (SA) scale. As the solvent acidity increases from 0.15 to 0.40, the fluorescence for both is quenched by more than a factor of ten; thus, they are extremely sensitive sensors of the hydrogen-bond-donating ability in this weakly acidic range. Preferential solvation studies suggest that quenching occurs from a doubly H-bonded excited state.
Hydrodynamic Helical Orientations of Nanofibers in a Vortex
Authors: Tsuda Akihiko
Published: May 2014

In this review article, I report our recent studies on spectroscopic visualizations of macroscopic helical alignments of nanofibers in vortex flows. Our designed supramolecular nanofibers, formed through self-assemblies of dye molecules, helically align in torsional flows of a vortex generated by mechanical rotary stirring of the sample solutions. The nanofiber, formed through bundling of linear supramolecular polymers, aligns equally in right- and left-handed vortex flows. However, in contrast, a one-handedly twisted nanofiber, formed through helical bundling of the supramolecular polymers, shows unequal helical alignments in these torsional flows. When the helical handedness of the nanofiber matches that of the vortex flow, the nanofiber aligns more efficiently in the flowing fluid. Such phenomena are observed not only with the artificial helical supramolecular nanofibers but also with biological nanofibers such as double-stranded DNA.
Conflits d'utilisation du sol et besoins en espace récréatif : le cas des grandes prairies angevines
Authors: Bonneau M. , Barbaza Yvette
Published: May 2014

Abstract. - The intensifying action in agriculture in damp areas related to water-control and soil improvement is at the root of conflicts between agriculture and tourism.

Its brings about a change of the agrarian landscape, new types of cultivation and a disappearance of the entertaining function.

The author presents the case of the great meadows of the Anjou, studying more especially example of the meadows of Mollay, by the Thouet, affluent on the left side of the Loire.
Conflits de fonction dans un secteur à vocation touristique : le littoral entre Dunkerque et la frontière belge
Authors: Dewailly Jean-Michel , Barbaza Yvette
Published: May 2014

Abstract. - Between Dunkerque and the Belgian border, the sea-shore and its immediate hinterland are going to be organized, as far as touring layings out are concerned, in order to balance the industry and harbour extensions which are now realized between Dunkerque and Calais. But various functions are placed in competition althoung they are in some way complementary : touring, agriculture, industry, built spaces, infrastructures for traffic, protection of nature. The Ghyvelde example is closer analysed.
Conflits liés à la certification dans une relation commerciale
Authors: Perrot Anne , Linnemer Laurent
Published: May 2014

Within a vertical relationship between a producer and a retailer we study each side’s incentives to certify the quality of a product. Without certification, consumers are not informed about quality. We show that this certification issue generates new conflicts between producer and vendor. They agree neither on the level of certification, nor on who should certify. These conflicts result from a combination of a hold-up problem and a disclosure issue (a firm might prefer to hide its quality).
It Takes Two to Tango. La fusion : exercice de deux options réelles
Authors: Lasserre Pierre , Souissi Moez
Published: May 2014

We analyze mergers from the standpoint of the merging firms. We show that the date of completion of a decentralized merger is suboptimal. The reason is that the merger is a simultaneous decision by two firms, and that its date is therefore determined by their strategic considerations. We model the merger as the simultaneous exercise of two real options and introduce two bargaining mechanisms for the division of the merger rent : the Stackelberg game and the Rubinstein game. In the first, which applies to hostile mergers, all the bargaining power rests with one firm. In the second, which is more suitable for assessing friendly mergers, neither firm has a negotiating advantage. In both cases, we show that the merger occurs at a date that is Pareto suboptimal because too delayed. This phenomenon is more pronounced in hostile mergers than in friendly mergers.
Concentrations horizontales et puissance d'achat
Authors: Ravon Marie-Astrid , Muniesa Lucie , Chambolle Claire
Published: May 2014

Cet article analyse l’impact des fusions entre distributeurs dans le cadre d’un oligopole bilatéral, lorsque producteurs et distributeurs négocient deux à deux un prix unitaire sur le marché intermédiaire et lorsque les distributeurs se font concurrence en quantité. Nous montrons que : (i) une réduction de la concurrence inter-marques réduit la profitabilité individuelle d’une fusion entre distributeurs ; (ii) la constitution d’une centrale d’achat est néfaste aussi bien pour les distributeurs que pour les consommateurs.
Allotissement et rendements d'échelle - Application aux réseaux de transport ferroviaire
Authors: Lévêque Julien
Published: May 2014

This paper analyzes the scope for the awarding of contracts to multiple bidders in regional railway networks. We estimate economies of scale at a disaggregated level, the only one now relevant for analyzing European railway markets. Our results show that economies of scale in regional networks are not significant. The monopoly of a single railway operator in an entire regional network is thus not justified, given the expected benefits of competition. We therefore propose the break-up of the regional networks, with due regard for network effects (interconnection costs), the contestability of individual contracts (information rents) and procurement procedures (transaction costs).
Encastrement social et usages de l'Internet : une analyse jointe du commerce et de l'administration électronique
Authors: Suire Raphaël
Published: May 2014

Until now, the political discourse on the digital divide implied a spatial dimension. The main issue was the difference between people who “ have ” ICT access and those who “ do not.” Henceforth, it is important to distinguish between ICT adoption and ICT usage. The “ first-level ” digital divide is governed by financial and socio-economic determinants. The “ second-level ” digital divide concerns ICT use and is essentially determined by individual social embedding. Officials must therefore take both digital divides into account in order to develop efficient incentive policies. We show that e-commerce and e-government are non-correlated and that socially embeddedness proxies distinct ICT usages. In our structural approach, human capital, economic capital, and multi-level social capital must be stimulated in different ways for each ICT usage.
Croissance de la productivité et réallocations d'emplois au Maroc : la contribution des créations et disparitions d'entreprises
Authors: El Basri Amin , El Hamine Said , Duhautois Richard
Published: May 2014

Dans cet article, nous nous proposons d’identifier les différents types d’entreprises (entreprises pérennes, entreprises apparues ou disparues) qui contribuent à la croissance de la productivité du travail et de la productivité globale des facteurs (PGF) dans l’industrie marocaine. Nous utilisons deux méthodes de décomposition (Griliches et Regev, 1995 ; Foster, Haltiwanger et Krizan, 2000) qui permettent de prendre en compte le processus de destruction créatrice – le renouvellement des entreprises – et la croissance des entreprises pérennes. Nous montrons que la croissance de la productivité du travail est fortement dépendante de la croissance au sein des entreprises pérennes ; ensuite, pour la croissance de la productivité globale des facteurs, que les entrées jouent un rôle plus important, notamment en incorporant du capital plus performant ; enfin, que les disparitions d’entreprises expliquent la différence de croissance de l’emploi entre deux périodes de la décennie quatre-vingt-dix.
Transmission de la politique monétaire dans les Pays d'Europe Centrale et Orientale : que savons-nous vraiment ?
Authors: Matei Iuliana , Héricourt Jérôme
Published: May 2014

Cet article propose d’évaluer la capacité de la politique monétaire à influencer le produit et l’inflation dans les huit PECO ayant récemment adhéré à l’UE et les potentielles évolutions de ces mécanismes de transmission à la faveur des changements de régime monétaire intervenus dans beaucoup de ces pays. Nos résultats mettent en avant un rapprochement indéniable des mécanismes de transmission de la politique monétaire dans les PECO vers ceux des pays industrialisés, avec notamment une réaction de la production cohérente et significative pour la totalité des pays étudiés. En outre, si l’impact sur l’inflation apparaît encore peu décelable, l’analyse empirique souligne l’absence de réaction incohérente des prix (price puzzle) lorsque l’on considère des régimes de politique monétaire stabilisés et crédibles contre l’inflation (cf. Castelnuovo et Surico, 2006).
Productivité du secteur touristique français : une comparaison interrégionale
Authors: Peypoch Nicolas
Published: May 2014

Following Luenberger (1996), Briec and Peypoch (2004 ) proposed an aggregate productivity index capable of measuring intertemporal productivity, and of characterizing variations in efficiency and technological shifts. This paper applies the aggregate productivity index to France‘s hotel industry. The 96 départements of metropolitan France are aggregated into regions, and their productivity in 2002 and 2003 is analyzed. The results highlight the importance of exogenous shocks on tourist frequentation. More specifically, the three regions that account for half of France‘s total tourist frequentation have the lowest productivity.
Constant chemical potential approach for quantum chemical calculations in electrocatalysis
Authors: Schneider Wolfgang B , Auer Alexander A
Published: May 2014

In order to simulate electrochemical reactions in the framework of quantum chemical methods, density functional theory, methods can be devised that explicitly include the electrochemical potential. In this work we discuss a Grand Canonical approach in the framework of density functional theory in which fractional numbers of electrons are used to represent an open system in contact with an electrode at a given electrochemical potential. The computational shortcomings and the additional effort in such calculations are discussed. An ansatz for a SCF procedure is presented, which can be applied routinely and only marginally increases the computational effort of standard constant electron number approaches. In combination with the common implicit solvent models this scheme can become a powerful tool, especially for the investigation of omnipresent non-faradaic effects in electrochemistry.
Solid-phase-supported synthesis of morpholinoglycine oligonucleotide mimics
Authors: Abramova Tatyana V , Belov Sergey S , Tarasenko Yulia V , Silnikov Vladimir N
Published: May 2014

An efficient solid-phase-supported peptide synthesis (SPPS) of morpholinoglycine oligonucleotide (MorGly) mimics has been developed. The proposed strategy includes a novel specially designed labile linker group containing the oxalyl residue and the 2-aminomethylmorpholino nucleoside analogues as first subunits.
Psychopathia on the High Seas
Authors: Braceland Francis J
Published: May 2014

Vignette and Memoir
Psychiatry and the Death Penalty: The Past Decade
Authors: Leong Gregory B , Weinstock Robert , Silva J Arturo , Eth Spencer
Published: May 2014

Recent polls show substantial public support in the United States for the death penalty despite the fact that no other Western democracy has this ultimate punishment.
Issues in the Long-Term Management of Bipolar Affective Illness
Authors: Post Robert M
Published: May 2014

Not only is recurrence the usual pattern in virtually all patients with bipolar affective disorders, but a pattern of cycle acceleration with a decreased duration of well intervals in successive episodes is not atypical.
Serotonin and Schizophrenia
Authors: Iqbal Naveed , Goldsamt Lloyd A , Wetzler Scott , Schwartz Bruce J , Van Praag Herman M
Published: May 2014

It has only been in the last decade that attention has been refocused on the 5-HT hypothesis of schizophrenia.
Serotonin-Dopamine Interactions and Atypical Antipsychotic Drugs
Authors: Meltzer Herbert Y
Published: May 2014

Atypical antipsychotic drugs have a definite antipsychotic effect in schizophrenic patients without producing significant extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS).
Blueprint for an Adolescent Suicidal Crisis
Authors: Callahan Jay
Published: May 2014

The search for predictive factors has been particularly intense in the past decade, and to a great extent has focused on adolescent suicide.
The Use of Benzodiazepines in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Tourette's Syndrome
Authors: Hewlett William A
Published: May 2014

OCD is classified as an anxiety disorder; however, the utility of benzodiazepines in this disorder has not been firmly established at this time.
Depersonalization Disorder
Authors: Simeon Daphne , Hollander Eric
Published: May 2014

As a symptom, depersonalization is fascinating for the rather vast variety of physical and emotional states, psychiatric symptoms, organic factors, and life experiences with which it can be associated.
Trichotillomania
Authors: Swedo Susan E
Published: May 2014

Although psychiatric clinic populations had suggested that the disorder was rare, recent epidemiologic data suggest that trichotillomania is relatively common.
Motherhood Issues in the Psychotherapy of Employed Mothers
Authors: Derry Paula , Gallant Sheryle
Published: May 2014

The entry of women into the work force, particularly mothers of young children, has brought with it a new set of stresses, strivings, and dilemmas.
An Outline of Family Psychiatry
Authors: Howells John G
Published: May 2014

In family psychiatry, the object of treatment is the family unit and not the individual presenting patient.
Trauma and Affect: Applying the Language of Affect Theory to the Phenomena of Traumatic Stress
Authors: Stone Andrew M
Published: May 2014

Our ability to delineate and comprehend the phenomenology of trauma may be greatly enhanced by reexamination from the perspective of affect and affect theory.