bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-temperature in-situ microscopy during stress-induced phase transformations in Co49Ni21Ga30 shape memory alloy single crystals
Authors: Dadda Jayaram , J-rgen Maier Hans , Karaman Ibrahim , Chumlyakov Yuri
Published: December 2010

This paper reports on the role of repeated stress-induced martensite transformations at different temperatures (referred to as “training”) on the pseudoelasticity and microstructural evolution of as-grown Co49Ni21Ga30 [001]-oriented shape memory alloy single crystals under compression. The training resulted in a reduction in transformation stress levels and a stable microstructure with a multi-variant configuration reducing the observed transformation strains. Training also improved the recoverability giving way to a large pseudoelastic temperature window of 400°C. In-situ microscopy revealed the martensite stabilization to be due to pinning of moving interfaces especially at temperatures above 120°C. An insight into the evolution of microstructure and stressüstrain behavior in terms of stress hysteresis changes with test temperature is provided, and the possible operant mechanisms are discussed.
Adsorption of metal ions on magnetic carbon nanomaterials bearing chitosan-functionalized silica
Authors: Kurczewska Joanna , Schroeder Grzegorz , Narkiewicz Urszula
Published: December 2010

Magnetic chitosan nanocomposites have been synthesized on the basis of metal (Fe, Co, Ni)-encapsulated carbon nanomaterials. The organic layer was identified using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The functionalized nanomaterials were employed to remove metal ions: cadmium, copper, nickel, lead and zinc from aqueous solutions. Their adsorption capacities were studied by the batch procedure. The concentration of cations extracted was determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The influence of different parameters (pH, amount of the support studied, contact time) on the cation extraction was investigated. The studies demonstrated excellent ability of copper and lead adsorption, and satisfactory adsorption of other ions applied by the supports studied. The nanocomposites with complexed cations can be easily removed from water with the help of an external magnet. They can then undergo regeneration in an acidic environment and can be reused in the analogous process repeatedly.
Endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery: analysis of complications in the authors' initial 800 patients
Authors: Kassam Amin B. , Prevedello Daniel M. , Carrau Ricardo L. , Snyderman Carl H. , Thomas Ajith , Gardner Paul , Zanation Adam , Duz Bulent , Stefko S. Tonya , Byers Karin , Horowitz Michael B.
Published: December 2010

Object

The development of endoscopic endonasal approaches, albeit in the early stages, represents part of the continuous evolution of skull base surgery. During this early period, it is important to determine the safety of these approaches by analyzing surgical complications to identify and eliminate their causes.

Methods

The authors reviewed all perioperative complications associated with endoscopic endonasal skull base surgeries performed between July 1998 and June 2007 at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Results

This study includes the data for the authors' first 800 patients, comprising 399 male (49.9%) and 401 female (50.1%) patients with a mean age of 49.21 years (range 3–96 years). Pituitary adenomas (39.1%) and meningiomas (11.8%) were the 2 most common pathologies. A postoperative CSF leak represented the most common complication, occurring in 15.9% of the patients. All patients with a postoperative CSF leak were successfully treated with a lumbar drain and/or another endoscopic approach, except for 1 patient who required a transcranial repair. The incidence of postoperative CSF leaks decreased significantly with the adoption of vascularized tissue for reconstruction of the skull base (< 6%). Transient neurological deficits occurred in 20 patients (2.5%) and permanent neurological deficits in 14 patients (1.8%). Intracranial infection and systemic complications were encountered and successfully treated in 13 (1.6%) and 17 (2.1%) patients, respectively. Seven patients died during the 30-day perioperative period, 6 of systemic illness and 1 of infection (overall mortality 0.9%).

Conclusions

Endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery provides a viable median corridor based on anatomical landmarks and is customized according to the specific pathological process. This corridor should be considered as the sole access or may be combined with traditional approaches. With the incremental acquisition of skills and experience, endoscopic endonasal approaches have an acceptable safety profile in select patients presenting with various skull base pathologies.
Mini-open transpedicular corpectomies with expandable cage reconstruction
Authors: Chou Dean , Lu Daniel C.
Published: December 2010

Transpedicular corpectomies are frequently used to perform anterior surgery from a posterior approach. Minimally invasive thoracolumbar corpectomies have been previously described, but these are performed through a unilateral approach. Bilateral access must be obtained for a circumferential decompression when using such techniques. The authors describe a technique that allows for a mini-open transpedicular corpectomy, 360° decompression, and expandable cage reconstruction through a single posterior approach. This is performed using percutaneous pedicle screws, the trap-door rib-head osteotomy, and a single midline fascial exposure. The authors describe this technique with intraoperative photos and a video demonstrating the technique.
Anatomical considerations for the placement of cervical transarticular screws
Authors: Liu Guanyi , Xu Rongming , Ma Weihu , Sun Shaohua , Feng Jianxiang
Published: December 2010

Object

The object of this study was to determine the safe screw placement technique for cervical transarticular screw fixation.

Methods

Twenty cadaveric adult cervical spines were studied. All soft tissues surrounding the cervical spinal nerves from C-2 to T-1 were dissected carefully to expose the lateral mass, facet joint, transverse process, vertebral artery (VA), and spinal nerves (ventral and dorsal rami). After the proper entrance and exit points for the transarticular screws were determined, posterior transarticular screw implantation was performed under direct visualization from C2–3 to C5–6. A CT scan was performed to check the screw placement. The angle and length of the transarticular screw trajectory, the distance between the tip of the screw and the VA, and the sagittal safety angle were measured on the CT scan. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA (p < 0.05). Sagittal and axial orientations of transarticular screws were carefully analyzed.

Results

There was no nerve or artery impingement or penetration. The average caudal angle of the screws in the sagittal plane was 37.3° ± 5.0° and the lateral angle in the axial plane was 16.6° ± 4.6°. The average distance between the tip of the screw and the VA (the posterior border of the VA foramen) was 5.8 ± 1.5 mm. The average sagittal safety angle was 41.9° ± 5.6°. No difference was observed according to the vertebral level. The average bone purchase was 18.7 ± 1.4 mm. Bone purchase was significantly greater at C2–3 (23.2 ± 1.6 mm) than at C3–4 through C5–6 (17.2 ± 1.3 mm, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

This study establishes anatomical guidelines to allow for safe cervical transarticular screw insertion. The starting point of transarticular screws should be 1 mm medial to the midpoint of the lateral mass. The “ideal” drilling angle is approximately 37° in the inferior direction and 16° in the lateral direction for the C2–3 through the C5–6 levels. The screw should be directed as laterally as possible in the axial plane without causing the lateral mass to fracture and as caudally as the occipital bone permits in the sagittal plane. The ideal screw size would be 3.5 mm in diameter and 18 mm in length.
Sources of Propylene Glycol and Glycol Ethers in Air at Home
Authors: Choi Hyunok , Schmidbauer Norbert , Spengler John , Bornehag Carl-Gustaf
Published: December 2010

Propylene glycol and glycol ether (PGE) in indoor air have recently been associated with asthma and allergies as well as sensitization in children. In this follow-up report, sources of the PGEs in indoor air were investigated in 390 homes of pre-school age children in Sweden. Professional building inspectors examined each home for water damages, mold odour, building’s structural characteristics, indoor temperature, absolute humidity and air exchange rate. They also collected air and dust samples. The samples were analyzed for four groups of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and semi-VOCs (SVOCs), including summed concentrations of 16 PGEs, 8 terpene hydrocarbons, 2 Texanols, and the phthalates n-butyl benzyl phthalate (BBzP), and di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP). Home cleaning with water and mop ≥ once/month, repainting ≥ one room prior to or following the child’s birth, and “newest” surface material in the child’s bedroom explained largest portion of total variability in PGE concentrations. High excess indoor humidity (g/m3) additionally contributed to a sustained PGE levels in indoor air far beyond several months following the paint application. No behavioral or building structural factors, except for water-based cleaning, predicted an elevated terpene level in air. No significant predictor of Texanols emerged from our analysis. Overall disparate sources and low correlations among the PGEs, terpenes, Texanols, and the phthalates further confirm the lack of confounding in the analysis reporting the associations of the PGE and the diagnoses of asthma, rhinitis, and eczema, respectively.
Constitutive Expression of Thermobifida fusca Thermostable Acetylxylan Esterase Gene in Pichia pastoris
Authors: Yang Chao-Hsun , Lin Kun-I , Chen Gen-Hung , Chen Yu-Fen , Chen Cheng-Yu , Chen Wei-Lin , Huang Yu-Chun
Published: December 2010

A gene encoding the thermostable acetylxylan esterase (AXE) in Thermobifida fusca NTU22 was amplified by PCR, sequenced and cloned into the Pichia pastoris X-33 host strain using the vector pGAPZαA, allowing constitutive expression and secretion of the protein. Recombinant expression resulted in high levels of extracellular AXE production, as high as 526 U/mL in the Hinton flask culture broth. The purified enzyme showed a single band at about 28 kDa by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis after being treated with endo-β-N-acetylglycosaminidase H; this agrees with the predicted size based on the nucleotide sequence. About 70% of the original activity remained after heat treatment at 60 °C for three hours. The optimal pH and temperature of the purified enzyme were 8.0 and 60 °C, respectively. The properties of the purified AXE from the P. pastoris transformant are similar to those of the AXE from an E. coli transformant.
Protein Microarrays and Biomarkers of Infectious Disease
Authors: Natesan Mohan , Ulrich Robert G.
Published: December 2010

Protein microarrays are powerful tools that are widely used in systems biology research. For infectious diseases, proteome microarrays assembled from proteins of pathogens will play an increasingly important role in discovery of diagnostic markers, vaccines, and therapeutics. Distinct formats of protein microarrays have been developed for different applications, including abundance-based and function-based methods. Depending on the application, design issues should be considered, such as the need for multiplexing and label or label free detection methods. New developments, challenges, and future demands in infectious disease research will impact the application of protein microarrays for discovery and validation of biomarkers.
Fe-Chlorophyllin Promotes the Growth of Wheat Roots Associated with Nitric Oxide Generation
Authors: Tong Min , Zhang Liefeng , Wang Yifan , Jiang Hui , Ren Yong
Published: December 2010

: Effects of Fe-chlorophyllin on the growth of wheat root were investigated in this study. We found that Fe-chlorophyllin can promote root growth. The production of nitric oxide in wheat root was detected using DAF-2DA fluorescent emission. The intensity of fluorescent in the presence of 0.1 mg/L Fe-chlorophyllin was near to that observed with the positive control of sodium nitroprusside (SNP), the nitric oxide donor. IAA oxidase activity decreased with all treatments of Fe-chlorophyllin from 0.01 to 10 mg/L. At the relatively lower Fe-chlorophyllin concentration of 0.1 mg/L, the activity of IAA oxidase displayed a remarkable decrease, being 40.1% lower than the control. Meanwhile, Fe-chlorophyllin treatment could increase the activities of reactive oxygen scavenging enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD), as determined using non-denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. These results indicate that Fe-chlorophyllin contributes to the growth of wheat root associated with nitric oxide generation.
Evaluation of Compatibility between Beetle-Killed Lodgepole Pine (Pinus Contorta var. Latifolia) Wood with Portland Cement
Authors: Pasca Sorin A. , Hartley Ian D. , Reid Matthew E. , Thring Ronald W.
Published: December 2010

The compatibility of wood from mountain pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosa) killed lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta var. latifolia) with Portland cement was investigated based on time-since-death as a quantitative estimator, and the presence of blue-stained sapwood, brown rot, or white rot as qualitative indicators. The exothermic behavior of cement hydration, maximum heat rate, time to reach this maximum, and total heat released within a 3.5–24 h interval were used for defining a new wood-cement compatibility index (CX). CX was developed and accounted for large discrepancies in assessing wood-cement compatibility compared to the previous methods. Using CX, no significant differences were found between fresh or beetle-killed wood with respect to the suitability for cement; except for the white rot samples which reached or exceeded the levels of incompatibility. An outstanding physicochemical behavior was also found for blue-stained sapwood and cement, producing significantly higher compatibility indices.
Sterols from the Madagascar Sponge Fascaplysinopsis sp.
Authors: Aknin Maurice , Gros Emmanuelle , Vacelet Jean , Kashman Yoel , Gauvin-Bialecki Anne
Published: December 2010

The sponge Fascaplysinopsis sp. (order Dictyoceratida, Family Thorectidae) from the west coast of Madagascar (Indian Ocean) is a particularly rich source of bioactive nitrogenous macrolides. The previous studies on this organism led to the suggestion that the latter should originate from associated microsymbionts. In order to evaluate the influence of microsymbionts on lipid content, 10 samples of Fascaplysinopsis sp. were investigated for their sterol composition. Contrary to the secondary metabolites, the sterol patterns established were qualitatively and quantitatively stable: 14 sterols with different unsaturated nuclei, D5, D7 and D5,7, were identified; the last ones being the main sterols of the investigated sponges. The chemotaxonomic significance of these results for the order Dictyoceratida is also discussed in the context of the literature. The conjugated diene system in D5,7 sterols is known to be unstable and easily photo-oxidized during storage and/or experiments to produce 5a,8a-epidioxy sterols. However, in this study, no 5a,8a-epidioxysterols (or only trace amounts) were observed. Thus, it was supposed that photo-oxidation was avoided thanks to the natural antioxidants detected in Fascaplysinopsis sp. by both the DPPH and b-caroten bleaching assays.
[2+2+2] Cycloaddition Reactions of Macrocyclic Systems Catalyzed by Transition Metals. A Review
Authors: Pla-Quintana Anna , Roglans Anna
Published: December 2010

Polyalkyne and enediyne azamacrocycles are prepared from arenesulfonamides and various alkyne and alkene derivatives either under basic or neutral conditions. The new family of macrocyclic substrates is tested in the [2+2+2] cycloaddition reaction. Several catalysts are used for the cycloisomerization reaction, and their enantioinduction is evaluated as appropriate. The effect of the structural features of the macrocycles, namely the ring size, substituents in precise positions and the number and type of unsaturations, on the [2+2+2] cycloaddition reaction has also been studied.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Essential Oils: A Short Review
Authors: Miguel Maria Graça
Published: December 2010

Essential oils are complex mixtures isolated from aromatic plants which may possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of interest in thye food and cosmetic industries as well as in the human health field. In this work, a review was done on the most recent publications concerning their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. At the same time a survey of the methods generally used for the evaluation of antioxidant activity and some of the mechanisms involved in the anti-inflammatory activities of essential oils are also reported.
Antioxidant Activity of Lignin Phenolic Compounds Extracted from Kraft and Sulphite Black Liquors
Authors: Faustino Hélio , Gil Nuno , Baptista Cecília , Duarte Ana Paula
Published: December 2010

The antioxidant activity of the phenolic compounds present in industrial black liquors obtained from the two cooking processes (kraft and sulphite) used in Portugal to produce Eucalyptus globulus pulp was evaluated. The black liquors treated at several pH values were extracted with ethyl acetate. Phenolic fractions were further separated by liquid chromatography of the crude extracts of kraft liquor at pH = 6 and sulphite liquor at the original pH. Total phenolic content was determined in terms of gallic acid equivalents (Folin-Ciocalteu colorimetric method), and the antioxidant activity in the crude extracts at several pH values and in the separated fractions was measured using the DPPH test for radical scavenging capacity. The total phenolic content of crude extracts and separated fractions ranged from 92.7 to 181.6 and from 91.6 to 1,099.6 mg GAE/g, respectively, while the antioxidant activity index (AAI) ranged from 2.20 to 3.41 and from 2.21 to 11.47 respectively, showing very strong antioxidant activity in all studied cases. The fractions separated by column chromatography were submitted to mass spectrometry analysis and the results were compared to others in the literature of natural products, mainly from Eucalyptus, and the characteristic bands of functional groups were identified by 1H-NMR and FTIR. These methods allowed the identification of 17 phenolic compounds.
Evaluation of the Bioactivity of Novel Spiroisoxazoline TypeCompounds against Normal and Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Najim Nigar , Bathich Yaser , Zain Mazatulikhma Mat , Hamzah Ahmad Sazali , Shaameri Zurina
Published: December 2010

The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro cellular activity of novel spiroisoxazoline type compounds against normal and cancer cell lines from lung tissue (Hs888Lu), neuron-phenotypic cells (SH-SY5Y), neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y), human histiocytic lymphoma (U937), lung cancer (A549), and leukaemia (HL-60). Our bioassay program revealed that the spiroisoxazoline type compounds show cytotoxicity only in lymphoma cell lines, which is in contrast with the pyrrolidine precursor of these spiroisoxazoline compounds, where significant cytotoxicity is seen in all normal and cancer cell lines. These data suggest a tumour-specific mechanism of action. In addition these data also show that spiroisoxazoline compounds are non-toxic in the human neuronphenotypic neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell line, and furthermore that they might protect cells from neurodegenerative disease.
Effects of Dietary Fiber and Its Components on Metabolic Health
Authors: Lattimer James M. , Haub Mark D.
Published: December 2010

Dietary fiber and whole grains contain a unique blend of bioactive components including resistant starches, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and antioxidants. As a result, research regarding their potential health benefits has received considerable attention in the last several decades. Epidemiological and clinical studies demonstrate that intake of dietary fiber and whole grain is inversely related to obesity, type two diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Defining dietary fiber is a divergent process and is dependent on both nutrition and analytical concepts. The most common and accepted definition is based on nutritional physiology. Generally speaking, dietary fiber is the edible parts of plants, or similar carbohydrates, that are resistant to digestion and absorption in the small intestine. Dietary fiber can be separated into many different fractions. Recent research has begun to isolate these components and determine if increasing their levels in a diet is beneficial to human health. These fractions include arabinoxylan, inulin, pectin, bran, cellulose, β-glucan and resistant starch. The study of these components may give us a better understanding of how and why dietary fiber may decrease the risk for certain diseases. The mechanisms behind the reported effects of dietary fiber on metabolic health are not well established. It is speculated to be a result of changes in intestinal viscosity, nutrient absorption, rate of passage, production of short chain fatty acids and production of gut hormones. Given the inconsistencies reported between studies this review will examine the most up to date data concerning dietary fiber and its effects on metabolic health.
Cell-Penetrating Penta-Peptides (CPP5s): Measurement of Cell Entry and Protein-Transduction Activity
Authors: Gomez Jose A. , Chen Joseph , Ngo Justine , Hajkova Dagmar , Yeh I-Ju , Gama Vivian , Miyagi Masaru , Matsuyama Shigemi
Published: December 2010

Previously, we developed cell-penetrating penta-peptides (CPP5s). In the present study, VPTLK and KLPVM, two representative CPP5s, were used to characterize the cell-penetration and protein-transduction activities of these small molecules. Various inhibitors of endocytosis and pinocytosis (chlorpromazine, cytochalasin D, Filipin III, amiloride, methyl-b-cyclodextrin, and nocodazole) were tested. Only cytochalasin D showed suppression of CPP5 entry, though the effect was partial. In addition, CPP5s were able to enter a proteoglycan-deficient CHO cell line. These results suggest that pinocytosis and endocytosis may play only a minor role in the cell entry of CPP5s. By mass spectrometry, we determined that the intracellular concentration of VPTLK ranged from 20 nM to 6.0 mM when the cells were cultured in medium containing 1 mM – 1.6 mM VPTLK. To determine the protein-transduction activity of CPP5s, the Tex-LoxP EG cell line, which has a Cre-inducible green fluorescent protein (GFP) gene, was used. VPTLK and KLPVM were added to the N-terminus of Cre, and these fusion proteins were added to the culture medium of Tex-LoxP EG cells. Both VPTLK-Cre and KLPVM-Cre were able to turn on GFP expression in these cells, suggesting that CPP5s have protein-transduction activity. Since CPP5s have very low cytotoxic activity, even at a concentration of 1.6 mM in the medium, CPP5s could be utilized as a new tool for drug delivery into cells.
Modeling Textural Processes during Self-Assembly of Plant-Based Chiral-Nematic Liquid Crystals
Authors: Murugesan Yogesh K. , Rey Alejandro D.
Published: December 2010

Biological liquid crystalline polymers are found in cellulosic, chitin, and DNA based natural materials. Chiral nematic liquid crystalline orientational order is observed frozen-in in the solid state in plant cell walls and is known as a liquid crystal analogue characterized by a helicoidal plywood architecture. The emergence of the plywood architecture by directed chiral nematic liquid crystalline self assembly has been postulated as the mechanism that leads to optimal cellulose fibril organization. In natural systems, tissue growth and development takes place in the presence of inclusions and secondary phases leaving behind characteristic defects and textures, which provide a unique testing ground for the validity of the liquid crystal self-assembly postulate. In this work, a mathematical model, based on the Landau-de Gennes theory of liquid crystals, is used to simulate defect textures arising in the domain of self assembly, due to presence of secondary phases representing plant cells, lumens and pit canals. It is shown that the obtained defect patterns observed in some plant cell walls are those expected from a truly liquid crystalline phase. The analysis reveals the nature and magnitude of the viscoelastic material parameters that lead to observed patterns in plant-based helicoids through directed self-assembly. In addition, the results provide new guidance to develop biomimetic plywoods for structural and functional applications.
A Combined Experimental and Theoretical Study on the Immunoassay of Human Immunoglobulin Using a Quartz Crystal Microbalance
Authors: Liao Po-Jen , Chang Jeng-Shian , Chao Sheng D. , Chang Hung-Chi , Huang Kuan-Rong , Wu Kuang-Chong , Wung Tzong-Shyan
Published: December 2010

We investigate a immunoassay biosensor that employs a Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) to detect the specific binding reaction of the (Human IgG1)-(Anti-Human IgG1) protein pair under physiological conditions. In addition to experiments, a three dimensional time domain finite element method (FEM) was used to perform simulations for the biomolecular binding reaction in microfluidic channels. In particular, we discuss the unsteady convective diffusion in the transportation tube, which conveys the buffer solution containing the analyte molecules into the micro-channel where the QCM sensor lies. It is found that the distribution of the analyte concentration in the tube is strongly affected by the flow field, yielding large discrepancies between the simulations and experimental results. Our analysis shows that the conventional assumption of the analyte concentration in the inlet of the micro-channel being uniform and constant in time is inadequate. In addition, we also show that the commonly used procedure in kinetic analysis for estimating binding rate constants from the experimental data would underestimate these rate constants due to neglected diffusion processes from the inlet to the reaction surface. A calibration procedure is proposed to supplement the basic kinetic analysis, thus yielding better consistency with experiments.
Nitrite Biosensing via Selective Enzymes—A Long but Promising Route
Authors: Almeida M. Gabriela , Serra Alexandra , Silveira Celia M. , Moura Jose J.G.
Published: December 2010

The last decades have witnessed a steady increase of the social and political awareness for the need of monitoring and controlling environmental and industrial processes. In the case of nitrite ion, due to its potential toxicity for human health, the European Union has recently implemented a number of rules to restrict its level in drinking waters and food products. Although several analytical protocols have been proposed for nitrite quantification, none of them enable a reliable and quick analysis of complex samples. An alternative approach relies on the construction of biosensing devices using stable enzymes, with both high activity and specificity for nitrite. In this paper we review the current state-of-the-art in the field of electrochemical and optical biosensors using nitrite reducing enzymes as biorecognition elements and discuss the opportunities and challenges in this emerging market.
A Wireless Sensor Network-Based Ubiquitous Paprika Growth Management System
Authors: Hwang Jeonghwan , Shin Changsun , Yoe Hyun
Published: December 2010

Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) technology can facilitate advances in productivity, safety and human quality of life through its applications in various industries. In particular, the application of WSN technology to the agricultural area, which is labor-intensive compared to other industries, and in addition is typically lacking in IT technology applications, adds value and can increase the agricultural productivity. This study attempts to establish a ubiquitous agricultural environment and improve the productivity of farms that grow paprika by suggesting a ‘Ubiquitous Paprika Greenhouse Management System’ using WSN technology. The proposed system can collect and monitor information related to the growth environment of crops outside and inside paprika greenhouses by installing WSN sensors and monitoring images captured by CCTV cameras. In addition, the system provides a paprika greenhouse environment control facility for manual and automatic control from a distance, improves the convenience and productivity of users, and facilitates an optimized environment to grow paprika based on the growth environment data acquired by operating the system.
Development of CMX001 for the Treatment of Poxvirus Infections
Authors: Lanier Randall , Trost Lawrence , Tippin Tim , Lampert Bernhard , Robertson Alice , Foster Scott , Rose Michelle , Painter Wendy , O’Mahony Rose , Almond Merrick , Painter George
Published: December 2010

CMX001 (phosphonic acid, [[(S)-2-(4-amino-2-oxo-1(2H)-pyrimidinyl)-1-(hydroxymethyl)ethoxy]methyl]mono[3-(hexadecyloxy)propyl] ester) is a lipid conjugate of the acyclic nucleotide phosphonate, cidofovir (CDV). CMX001 is currently in Phase II clinical trials for the prophylaxis of human cytomegalovirus infection and under development using the Animal Rule for smallpox infection. It has proven effective in reduction of morbidity and mortality in animal models of human smallpox, even after the onset of lesions and other clinical signs of disease. CMX001 and CDV are active against all five families of double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) viruses that cause human morbidity and mortality, including orthopoxviruses such as variola virus, the cause of human smallpox. However, the clinical utility of CDV is limited by the requirement for intravenous dosing and a high incidence of acute kidney toxicity. The risk of nephrotoxicity necessitates pre-hydration and probenecid administration in a health care facility, further complicating high volume CDV use in an emergency situation. Compared with CDV, CMX001 has a number of advantages for treatment of smallpox in an emergency including greater potency in vitro against all dsDNA viruses that cause human disease, a high genetic barrier to resistance, convenient oral administration as a tablet or liquid, and no evidence to date of nephrotoxicity in either animals or humans. The apparent lack of nephrotoxicity observed with CMX001 in vivo is because it is not a substrate for the human organic anion transporters that actively secrete CDV into kidney cells. The ability to test the safety and efficacy of CMX001 in patients with life-threatening dsDNA virus infections which share many basic traits with variola is a major advantage in the development of this antiviral for a smallpox indication.
Lettre de Démétrius Cydonès à Andronic Oenéote, grand juge des Romains (1369-1371)
Authors: Loenertz Raymond-Joseph
Published: December 2010

REB 29 (1971) France p. 303-308.

R.-J. Lœnertz, Lettre de Démétrius Cydonès à Andronic Oenéote, grand juge des Romains (1369-1371). — Cette lettre ici présentée et traduite rend un témoignage à l'unité chrétienne. D'après Cydonès, qui réagit contre l'aversion de ses compatriotes à l'égard des Latins, la nouvelle Rome doit reconnaître et honorer l'héritage des Romains.
An Unknown Metropolitan of Miletus
Authors: Polemis D. I.
Published: December 2010

REB 29 (1971) France p. 309-312.

D. I. Polemis, An Unknown Metropolitan of Miletus. — A sixteenth century scribe has copied into a liturgical manuscript, Londin. Burney. 54, the dedicatory inscription of an antimension. Dated 1356, it alludes to Symeon, an otherwise unknown and probably the last Metropolitan of Miletus.
Une description anonyme de Constantinople du XIIe s
Authors: Ciggaar Krijnie N.
Published: December 2010

REB 31 1973 France p. 335-354

Krijnie N. Ciggaar, Une description anonyme de Constantinople du XIIe siècle. — Une description en grec publiée par Lampros s'éclaire par la comparaison avec un texte latin antérieur. Un commentaire détaillé fait apparaître que le récit latin est d'origine anglaise, comme les manuscrits qui l'ont conservé, et qu'il doit être l'œuvre de quelque visiteur qui se rendit à Constantinople vers le milieu du XIIe siècle.
Réquisitoire du patriarche Jean d'Antioche contre le charisticariat
Authors: Gautier Paul
Published: December 2010

REB 33 1975 France p. 77-132

P. Gautier, Réquisitoire du patriarche Jean d'Antioche contre le charisticariat. — Edition critique avec traduction française annotée du réquisitoire de Jean d'Antioche contre le charisticariat. Dans ce pamphlet l'auteur condamne sans ménagement la pratique de la donation de monastères à des laïcs, parce que ceux-ci en tiraient de gros revenus sans se soucier de subvenir à l'entretien des maisons religieuses dont ils avaient assumé la charge, traitaient moines et moniales avec un complet mépris et les plongeaient dans la pire détresse physique et morale. Le texte a été conservé par cinq manuscrits : la collation a été faite sur la base du Parisinus graecus 1319 (XIIIe s.), le plus ancien et le meilleur témoin. L'analyse des indices historiques n'a pas permis d'arrêter une datation précise; Jean ayant pu rédiger ce pamphlet avant ou après sa nomination au patriarcat d'Antioche, on doit, compte tenu des événements qu'il évoque, accepter une « fourchette » chronologique assez large : entre 1085 et 1091.
Byzantinorussica
Authors: Shepard Jonathan
Published: December 2010

REB 33 1975 France p. 211-225

J. Shepard, Byzantinorussica. — The author examines two points of textual interpretation in the Chronicles of Scylitzes and Attaleiates : I. Three Russian archontes (the identity and office of Nesisthlabos, Hierosthlabos and Zinisthlabos, mentioned by Scylitzes under the year 1036); II. Russians at Manzikert (1071) and the problem of to allagion.
Marġarid : un timar monastique
Authors: Beldiceanu Nicoară
Published: December 2010

REB 33 1975 France p. 227-255

N. Beldiceanu, Margarid : un timar monastique. — L'article décrit la situation du monastère Saint- Jean-Prodrome durant le règne de Mehmed II, en partant des données fournies par plusieurs registres ottomans de cadastre. La documentation permet de mettre en lumière le statut des biens immeubles du monastère, ses différentes sources de revenus, ainsi que la situation matérielle des raïas. De plus, les noms des villageois montrent que la population était composée d'une majorité grecque, auprès de laquelle vivaient des Slaves et des paysans d'ascendance turque chrétienne.
Les relations américano-soviétiques : une ère nouvelle ?
Authors: Staar Richard F.
Published: December 2010

Soviet-American relations : a new era ?

Even as its official spokesmen proclaim the end of the cold war, the USSR

fovernment, now five years into the new era of perestroïka and « new political thin- ing », is still operating its foreign policy according to traditional attitudes of East- West confrontation. This article describes four areas in which official pronouncements by Soviet policy makers are contradicted by the following actions : an ongoing campaign of disinformation against the West, despite promises of « no more lies » ; a continuation of information gathering and technology transfer by illegal means and for « dual purpose » uses ; in « restructuring » and withdrawal of troops and weapons from abroad, when both are then redirected to other geographic areas ; and appeals to Western investment in the « democratization » of Soviet society, despite evidence that what USSR leaders may actually be seeking is a Leninist peredyshka, or temporary respite from their current economic and social malaise.
Anatomie d'un fiasco
Authors: Szentgyorgyi Zsuzsa
Published: December 2010

Le retard technique des pays du CAEM par rapport aux régions développées du monde est l'une des principales causes de leurs difficultés économiques. C'est pourquoi, au début des années 80, l'idée de combler ce retard scientifique et technique grâce à une coopération étroite de tous les États membres paraissait des plus séduisantes, d'autant que des initiatives du même ordre étaient prises en Europe de l'Ouest. Aussi le CAEM lança-t-il son « Programme complexe » au milieu des années 80 qui s'est achevé par un fiasco. L'auteur explicite les causes de cet échec (rivalités entre les divers organismes impliqués, manque de ressources financières, absence de flexibilité, ruptures dans le processus d'innovation, problèmes de gestion, opposition des divers intérêts nationaux en jeu), examine plus particulièrement la situation du point de vue de la Hongrie et se demande pour finir s'il existe une porte de sortie. La réponse est positive à condition que les pays du CAEM renonce à rapiécer un système moribond et repartent de bases radicalement nouvelles. Pour l'auteur, ce processus prendra de nombreuses années, peut-être une décennie ou même davantage.
Les communistes polonais et l'élection de juin 1989. Analyse d'une prise de décision
Authors: David-Blais Martin
Published: December 2010

Les dirigeants communistes polonais avaient-ils des raisons valables d'accepter d'appeler des élections semi-démocratiques en juin 1989 ou faut-il, au contraire, y voir un geste de démission plus ou moins déguisée d'un régime à bout de souffle ? La démarche de l'auteur repose sur le postulat suivant : avant de conclure à la démission du régime face aux exigences de l'Histoire (au sens historiciste du terme), voire à son « suicide politique », tâchons plus modestement d'analyser cette décision en termes de décision rationnelle.

La présente étude est élaborée à partir de principes de base du paradigme sociologique du « Rational Choice ». Il s'agira, dans un premier temps, de montrer qu'il est possible de prêter de l'extérieur aux dirigeants du PZPR de « bonnes raisons » de penser que l'élection serait non seulement sans danger en ce qui concerne leur maîtrise du pouvoir mais qu'elle serait en outre profitable politiquement dans un contexte conjoncturel très contraignant. Dans un second temps, on tentera d'identifier les principales erreurs stratégiques que ces dirigeants ont commises, lesquelles erreurs, malgré leurs conséquences catastrophiques, n'en étaient pas moins « compréhensibles ». Ces erreurs consistent, d'une part, en une mauvaise évaluation du comportement ultérieur de Pélectorat polonais et, d'autre part, en une méprise sur les effets des nouvelles procédures électorales.
Quelles perspectives pour la Coopération Industrielle Tripartite Est-Ouest-Sud ?
Authors: Gutman Patrick
Published: December 2010

A travers la Coopération Industrielle Tripartite (CIT), les pays de l'Est sont devenus pendant les années soixante-dix et quatre-vingt co-réalisateurs d'ensembles industriels dans les pays en développement. L'inclusion de prestations effectuées par les centrales de commerce extérieur socialistes dans les soumissions occidentales permet en effet d'abaisser le coût global des projets que veulent réaliser les pays hôtes.

C'est une pratique particulièrement originale de la part des firmes occidentales que d'aller chercher à l'Est l'appui nécessaire pour enlever les appels d'offres internationaux. La CIT souligne aussi la volonté des pays de l'Est de jouer un rôle accru dans la Division Internationale du Travail.

Mais, en même temps, peuvent apparaître des contradictions entre les intérêts micro-économiques des entreprises occidentales et les intérêts géopolitiques de leurs États-Nations d'appartenance. En effet, la CIT constitue pour l'Est un moyen d'étendre sa sphère d'influence dans le Tiers-Monde pro-occidental (en particulier avec l'aide des firmes occidentales chefs de file qui donnent l'occasion aux centrales de commerce extérieur socialistes de diversifier leur mode de présence et d'engagement au Sud).

En relation avec le nouveau contexte, l'article a un double objectif :

a/ apprécier dans quelle mesure les bouleversements de 1989 ont altéré ou non la nature politique et géopolitique du mécanisme tripartite ;

b/ vérifier si les déterminants économiques de la CIT sont encore valables au début des années 1990. En d'autres termes, la rationalité micro-économique de la CIT — qui jusqu'à maintenant s'articulait autour de la fixation du prix d'offre des complexes industriels — est-elle toujours à l'œuvre dans le contexte actuel ?
Réforme économique et politique anti-inflationniste en Pologne
Authors: Lutkowski Karol
Published: December 2010

Economie reform and basic issues of anti-inflationary policy in Poland

All countries of Eastern Europe suffer from more or less serious economic disequilibria. Recently, however, a new and especially disturbing fact has captured the attention of economists : those countries of the region which have experimented with market-oriented reforms have fallen prey to inflation, coupled with persistent disequilibria as they tried to check the rise of prices by preserving the remnants of price control. The really disquieting fact is that inflation tends to accelerate despite all efforts to stop it. Inflation has thus become the main economic problem in that part of the world. It threatens to undermine the attempted reforms and to revese the prevailing trend toward a more productive economy and a more liberal society.

Poland is a particularly vivid illustration of the difficulties of transforming a system based upon the monopoly of political power and bureaucratic control of the economy into a democracy with a freely operating market. Over the past two years, the problem became particularly acute as inflation clearly entered the phase usually described as galloping inflation, threatening to degenerate into hyperinflation. The critical turning point seems to have been the failed « price and income operation » (February 1988). The present article is an attempt at clarification of the interrelationship between reform and inflation in the light of the Polish experience.
Les réformes économiques et la politique de la « porte ouverte » en Corée du Nord
Authors: Lee Kie-Young
Published: December 2010

II est exact que la plupart des membres de l'élite gouvernementale nord-coréenne sont des radicaux. Mais on peut tout de même distinguer une amorce de tendance à la réforme. L'un des signes les plus probants est la participation progressive de technocrates modérés et pratiques aux décisions politiques et économiques. Un autre indice est l'atmosphère pacifique de plus en plus perceptible en Asie extrême-orientale lors d'événements d'ordre international. Enfin, les difficultés économiques de la Corée du Nord vont nécessairement l'obliger à changer de stratégie et à choisir une politique de porte ouverte et de réforme.
Le problème de l'évaluation de l'effort militaire soviétique, 1988-1990
Authors: Birman Igor
Published: December 2010

L'évaluation des dépenses militaires soviétiques étant comme chacun sait un art difficile, l'auteur déclare lui-même en conclusion que son article pose plus de questions qu'il n'apporte de réponses. Il tente néanmoins de déblayer le terrain et de cerner les vrais problèmes. Il démontre l'inanité d'une comparaison directe des PNB américain et soviétique et de la part des dépenses militaires respectives dans le PNB et rappelle que la notion de dépenses militaires peut être comprise en son sens restreint (dépenses concernant exclusivement la puissance militaire) ou large (dépenses militaires globales).

Il n'existe pas de méthode adéquate pour exprimer en un seul indice la puissance militaire d'un pays. De même la notion de parité des puissances militaires n'est pas très pertinente. Certains éléments des dépenses ne sont pas comparables aux États-Unis et en U.R.S.S. On compare toujours les dépenses annuelles alors qu'il faudrait tenir compte des dépenses effectuées pendant les années antérieures. Sans oublier les problèmes de conversion des monnaies, de système des prix, etc.

L'auteur se risque néanmoins à une évaluation chiffrée dont il souligne bien l'aspect approximatif. Il pense que les dépenses pour la production d'armements ont diminué en 1989-1990, évoque la difficile reconversion de l'industrie militaire en industrie civile, son coût et son rythme et finit par dresser un tableau récapitulatif, tout en l'accompagnant de multiples réserves. Il estime que les dépenses militaires totales n'étaient, en 1989, en aucun cas inférieure à 200 milliards de roubles et que leur part dans le PNB dépassait (fortement ?) 20 %. Sur ces 200 milliards de roubles, les armes et le matériel militaire (y compris la recherche-développement et les investissements) se montent au minimum à 160 milliards de roubles, les quelque 40 milliards restants étant destinés à l'entretien, l'instruction et la santé des personnels, aux pensions, à la construction à des fins militaires, au renseignement, aux transports, etc.
La perception du Droit dans la vie quotidienne : les représentations des concepts de droit privé chez les 11-17 ans
Authors: Kourilsky Chantal
Published: December 2010

A propos d'une recherche comparative sur la socialisation juridique dans l'enfance et l'adolescence, l'auteur avait déjà montré la formation précoce des représentations de la Loi et de la Justice, très différentes en France et celles d'un Droit évoquant les droits et libertés alors qu'en Pologne Loi et Droit se confondent dans une même image imperative (RECEO 1990, 3). Elle s'attache ici au développement, chez les 1 1-17 ans, des représentations du droit dans la vie quotidienne. Qu'il s'agisse de la propriété, de la vie privée, du contrat, de la sécurité sociale ou des impôts, l'on voit comment se tisse la trame profonde des futures représentations du Droit chez les adultes, comment les représentations enfantines et adolescentes s'imprègnent de la culture juridique nationale mais aussi comment les façonnent des facteurs comme le sexe et le milieu social du sujet qui déterminent pour une charge part le champ de ses expériences et l'interprétation qu'il en fait.
Les représentations de la régulation normative de la vie quotidienne
Authors: Skapska Grazyna
Published: December 2010

S'appuyant, comme l'article de Ch. Kourilsky, sur les données de l'enquête comparative sur la socialisation juridique avant l'âge adulte menée en 1987-1988, l'auteur opère une analyse des représentations des concepts de droit privé chez les enfants et les adolescents polonais qui lui permet de conclure à l'échec de l'inculcation de la notion de propriété collective par l'idéologie communiste. Cependant la détérioration progressive de l'ordre de la vie quotidienne sous le régime socialiste a entraîné une « destruction de la normativité sociale » et notamment, au plan de la socialisation juridique, une altération de la conception que l'individu a de lui-même en tant que sujet de droits. L'auteur formule l'hypothèse que cette image de soi pourrait renaître à travers la notion des droits de propriété individuels demeurés forts dans la conscience individuelle.
La formation à la gestion en Pologne : historique, état actuel, besoins et perspectives
Authors: Kozminski Andrzej
Published: December 2010

L'article présente l'évolution du système polonais de formation à la gestion. Après avoir souligne la longue tradition des sciences de l'organisation en Pologne, l'auteur s'intéresse aux développements récents, dominés par deux tendances : les contraintes idéologiques imposées par le communisme et les influences américaines.

L'élaboration du nouveau système de formation à la gestion doit prendre en considération aussi bien les pratiques traditionnelles que les exigences nouvelles d'une économie de marché. L'auteur, qui dirige depuis 1989 une école de gestion indépendante ainsi que le Centre international de gestion de l'Université de Varsovie et qui enseigne régulièrement dans des Business schools américaines présente le paysage actuel de la formation à la gestion en Pologne et analyse les barrières auxquelles se heurtent les initiatives novatrices.