bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structured management strategy versus usual care for gastroesophageal reflux disease: rationale for pooled analysis of five European cluster-randomized trials
Authors: Ponce Julio , Garrigues Vicente , Agréus Lars , Tabaglio Erminio , Gschwantler Michael , Güallar Eliseo , Tafalla Mónica , Nuevo Javier , Hatlebakk Jan G.
Published: November 2010

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has a major impact at the primary care level and there is a need to evaluate whether the diagnosis and therapeutic management of GERD in Europe needs to be improved.

Methods: This project was designed to test the hypothesis that a new primary care management strategy would improve outcomes for patients with GERD, compared with usual care, in Europe. The analysis pools five separate cluster-randomized studies conducted in Austria, Italy, Norway, Spain and Sweden. These studies used a strategy based on the self-administered GerdQ questionnaire to stratify adult patients with symptoms of heartburn or regurgitation according to the frequency and impact of symptoms. A score of ≥8 indicates a high probability of suffering GERD. Patients with a GerdQ impact score ≤2 were treated with generic proton-pump inhibitors according to local guidance, and patients with an impact score ≥3 were treated with esomeprazole 40 mg once daily.

Results: In total, 2400 patients were enrolled across the five studies. The protocols were modified by individual countries according to their local guidelines/requirements. In Norway, the new management strategy was compared with traditional routine endoscopy and 24-hour pH-metry, and encompassed proton-pump inhibitor reimbursement restrictions. Outcome measures differed by country, but included control of GERD symptoms, self-rated health status and work productivity, treatment changes, specialist referrals and physician adherence. GERD-related use of healthcare resources was also evaluated.

Conclusion: The pooled analysis will determine whether a locally adapted primary care management strategy for GERD, using GerdQ as a patient-tailored diagnostic and therapeutic evaluation tool, is beneficial compared with usual care across five countries with different standard approaches to GERD management and control.
Genome wide transcriptome profiling of a murine acute melioidosis model reveals new insights into how Burkholderia pseudomallei overcomes host innate immunity
Authors: Chin Chui-Yoke , Monack Denise M , Nathan Sheila
Published: November 2010

Background

At present, very little is known about how Burkholderia pseudomallei (B. pseudomallei) interacts with its host to elicit melioidosis symptoms. We established a murine acute-phase melioidosis model and used DNA microarray technology to investigate the global host/pathogen interaction. We compared the transcriptome of infected liver and spleen with uninfected tissues over an infection period of 42 hr to identify genes whose expression is altered in response to an acute infection.

Results

Viable B. pseudomallei cells were consistently detected in the blood, liver and spleen during the 42 hr course of infection. Microarray analysis of the liver and spleen over this time course demonstrated that genes involved in immune response, stress response, cell cycle regulation, proteasomal degradation, cellular metabolism and signal transduction pathways were differentially regulated. Up regulation of toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) gene expression suggested that a TLR2-mediated signalling pathway is responsible for recognition and initiation of an inflammatory response to the acute B. pseudomallei infection. Most of the highly elevated inflammatory genes are a cohort of "core host immune response" genes commonly seen in general inflammation infections. Concomitant to this initial inflammatory response, we observed an increase in transcripts associated with cell-death, caspase activation and peptidoglysis that ultimately promote tissue injury in the host. The complement system responsible for restoring host cellular homeostasis and eliminating intracellular bacteria was activated only after 24 hr post-infection. However, at this time point, diverse host nutrient metabolic and cellular pathways including glycolysis, fatty acid metabolism and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle were repressed.

Conclusions

This detailed picture of the host transcriptional response during acute melioidosis highlights a broad range of innate immune mechanisms that are activated in the host within 24 hrs, including the core immune response commonly seen in general inflammatory infections. Nevertheless, this activation is suppressed at 42 hr post-infection and in addition, suboptimal activation and function of the downstream complement system promotes uncontrolled spread of the bacteria.
Cervical cancer screening in Australia: modelled evaluation of the impact of changing the recommended interval from two to three years
Authors: Creighton Prudence , Lew Jie-Bin , Clements Mark , Smith Megan , Howard Kirsten , Dyer Suzanne , Lord Sarah , Canfell Karen
Published: November 2010

Background

The National Cervical Screening Program in Australia currently recommends that sexually active women between the ages of 18-70 years attend routine screening every 2 years. The publically funded National HPV Vaccination Program commenced in 2007, with catch-up in females aged 12-26 years conducted until 2009; and this may prompt consideration of whether the screening interval and other aspects of the organized screening program could be reviewed. The aim of the current evaluation was to assess the epidemiologic outcomes and cost implications of changing the recommended screening interval in Australia to 3 years.

Methods

We used a modelling approach to evaluate the effects of moving to a 3-yearly recommended screening interval. We used data from the Victorian Cervical Cytology Registry over the period 1997-2007 to model compliance with routine screening under current practice, and registry data from other countries with 3-yearly recommendations to inform assumptions about future screening behaviour under two alternative systems for screening organisation - retention of a reminder-based system (as in New Zealand), or a move to a call-and-recall system (as in England).

Results

A 3-yearly recommendation is predicted to be of similar effectiveness to the current 2-yearly recommendation, resulting in no substantial change to the total number of incident cervical cancer cases or cancer deaths, or to the estimated 0.68% average cumulative lifetime risk of cervical cancer in unvaccinated Australian women. However, a 3-yearly screening policy would be associated with decreases in the annual number of colposcopy and biopsy procedures performed (by 4-10%) and decreases in the number of treatments for pre-invasive lesions (by 2-4%). The magnitude of the decrease in the number of diagnostic procedures and treatments would depend on the method of screening organization, with call-and-recall screening associated with the highest reductions. The cost savings are predicted to be of the order of A$10-18 M annually, equivalent to 6-11% of the total cost of the current program (excluding overheads), with call-and-recall being associated with the greatest savings.

Conclusions

Lengthening the recommended screening interval to 3 years in Australia is not predicted to result in increases in rates of cervical cancer and is predicted to decrease the number of women undergoing diagnostic and treatment procedures. These findings are consistent with a large body of international evidence showing that screening more frequently than every three years with cervical cytology does not result in substantial gains in screening effectiveness.
Biosynthesis of chiral 3-hydroxyvalerate from single propionate-unrelated carbon sources in metabolically engineered E. coli
Authors: Tseng Hsien-Chung , Harwell Catey L , Martin Collin H , Prather Kristala LJ
Published: November 2010

Background

The ability to synthesize chiral building block molecules with high optical purity is of considerable importance to the fine chemical and pharmaceutical industries. Production of one such compound, 3-hydroxyvalerate (3HV), has previously been studied with respect to the in vivo or in vitro enzymatic depolymerization of biologically-derived co-polymers of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate). However, production of this biopolymeric precursor typically necessitates the supplementation of a secondary carbon source (e.g., propionate) into the culture medium. In addition, previous approaches for producing 3HV have not focused on its enantiopure synthesis, and thus suffer from increased costs for product purification.

Results

Here, we report the selective biosynthesis of each 3HV stereoisomer from a single, renewable carbon source using synthetic metabolic pathways in recombinant strains of Escherichia coli. The product chirality was controlled by utilizing two reductases of opposing stereoselectivity. Improvement of the biosynthetic pathway activity and host background was carried out to elevate both the 3HV titers and 3HV/3HB ratios. Overall, shake-flask titers as high as 0.31 g/L and 0.50 g/L of (S)-3HV and (R)-3HV, respectively, were achieved in glucose-fed cultures, whereas glycerol-fed cultures yielded up to 0.19 g/L and 0.96 g/L of (S)-3HV and (R)-3HV, respectively.

Conclusions

Our work represents the first report of direct microbial production of enantiomerically pure 3HV from a single carbon source. Continued engineering of host strains and pathway enzymes will ultimately lead to more economical production of chiral 3HV.
Knowledge and acceptability of the rectal treatment route in Laos and its application for pre-referral emergency malaria treatment
Authors: Inthavilay Southisouk , Franchard Thierry , Meimei Yang , Ashley Elizabeth A , Barennes Hubert
Published: November 2010

Background

Rectal artesunate has been shown to reduce death and disability from severe malaria caused by delays in reaching facilities capable of providing appropriate treatment.

Acceptability of this mode of drug delivery in Laos is not known. In 2009 the acceptability of rectal treatments was evaluated among the general Lao population and Lao doctors in a national survey.

Methods

A cross sectional survey was performed of 985 households selected through a multi-stage random sampling process from 85 villages in 12/18 provinces and of 315 health staff randomly selected at each administrative level.

Results

Out of 985 families, 9% had used the rectal route to treat children (the main indication was seizures or constipation). The population considered it less effective than other routes. Other concerns raised included pain (28%), discomfort for children (40%) and the possibility of other side effects (20%). Of 300 health staff surveyed (nurses 44%, doctors 66%), only 51% had already used the rectal route with a suppository, mostly to treat fever (76%). Health staff working in provincial hospitals had more experience of using the rectal route than those in urban areas. The majority (92%) were keen to use the rectal route to treat malaria although oral and intramuscular routes were preferred and considered to be more efficacious.

Discussion and conclusion

Use of rectal treatments is uncommon in Laos and generally not considered to be very effective. This view is shared by the population and health care workers. More information and training are needed to convince the population and health staff of the efficacy and advantages of the rectal route for malaria treatment.
DNA polymeraseη protein expression predicts treatment response and survival of metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma patients treated with oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy
Authors: Teng Kai-yuan , Qiu Miao-zhen , Li Zhuang-hua , Luo Hui-yan , Zeng Zhao-lei , Luo Rong-zhen , Zhang Hui-zhong , Wang Zhi-qiang , Li Yu-hong , Xu Rui-hua
Published: November 2010

Background

DNA polymerase η (pol η) is capable of bypassing DNA adducts produced by cisplatin or oxaliplatin and is associated with cellular tolerance to platinum. Previous studies showed that defective pol η resulted in enhanced cisplatin or oxaliplatin sensitivity in some cell lines. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the role of pol η protein expression in metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma.

Methods

Four gastric adenocarcinoma cell lines were chosen to explore the relationship between pol η protein expression and oxaliplatin sensitivity by western blotting and MTT assay. Eighty metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma patients treated with FOLFOX or XELOX regimen as first-line chemotherapy were analyzed, corresponding pretreatment formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor tissues were used to detect pol η protein expression by immunohistochemistry. Relationship between pol η protein expression and clinical features and outcome of these patients was analyzed.

Results

A positive linear relationship between pol η protein expression and 48 h IC50 values of oxaliplatin in four gastric cancer cell lines was observed. Positivity of pol η protein expression was strongly associated with poor treatment response, as well as shorter survival at both univariate (8 versus 14 months; P < 0.001) and multivariate (hazard ratio, 4.555; 95% confidence interval, 2.461-8.429; P < 0.001) analysis in eighty metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma patients.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that polη is a predictive factor of treatment response and survival of metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma patients treated with FOLFOX or XELOX as first-line chemotherapy. Therefore confirming the value of polη in studies with prospective design is mandatory.
Identification and characterization of duck plague virus glycoprotein C gene and gene product
Authors: Lian Bei , Xu Chao , Cheng Anchun , Wang Mingshu , Zhu Dekang , Luo Qihui , Jia Renyong , Bi Fengjun , Chen Zhengli , Zhou Yi , Yang Zexia , Chen Xiaoyue
Published: November 2010

Background

Viral envelope proteins have been proposed to play significant roles in the process of viral infection.

Results

In this study, an envelope protein gene, gC (NCBI GenBank accession no. EU076811), was expressed and characterized from duck plague virus (DPV), a member of the family herpesviridae. The gene encodes a protein of 432 amino acids with a predicted molecular mass of 45 kDa. Sequence comparisons, multiple alignments and phylogenetic analysis showed that DPV gC has several features common to other identified herpesvirus gC, and was genetically close to the gallid herpervirus.

Antibodies raised in rabbits against the pET32a-gC recombinant protein expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) recognized a 45-KDa DPV-specific protein from infected duck embryo fibroblast (DEF) cells. Transcriptional and expression analysis, using real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR (FQ-PCR) and Western blot detection, revealed that the transcripts encoding DPV gC and the protein itself appeared late during infection of DEF cells. Immunofluorescence localization further demonstrated that the gC protein exhibited substantial cytoplasm fluorescence in DPV-infected DEF cells.

Conclusions

In this work, the DPV gC protein was successfully expressed in a prokaryotic expression system, and we presented the basic properties of the DPV gC product for the first time. These properties of the gC protein provided a prerequisite for further functional analysis of this gene.
Primary cardiac osteosarcoma in a 42-year-old woman
Authors: Luo Honghe , Lei Yiyan , Su Chunhua , Cai Lie , Wang Tao , Zou Jianyong , Chen Zhenguang
Published: November 2010

We describe here a 42-year-old woman who was admitted to hospital with a pedunculated mass in her left atrium. She was diagnosed with a primary cardiac osteosarcoma with special immunohistochemical characteristics. Echocardiography and computed tomography can be used to differentiate cardiac osteosarcomas from routine intracardiac tumors. The patient was treated by surgical removal of the mass. Two years later, she has shown no evidence of disease recurrence. We discuss primary osteosarcomas in the cardiac cavity and their management.
ADAR2-dependent RNA editing of GluR2 is involved in thiamine deficiency-induced alteration of calcium dynamics
Authors: Lee Shuchen , Yang Guang , Yong Yue , Liu Ying , Zhao Liyun , Xu Jing , Zhang Xiaomin , Wan Yanjie , Feng Chun , Fan Zhiqin , Liu Yong , Luo Jia , Ke Zun-Ji
Published: November 2010

Background

Thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency (TD) causes mild impairment of oxidative metabolism and region-selective neuronal loss in the central nervous system (CNS). TD in animals has been used to model aging-associated neurodegeneration in the brain. The mechanisms of TD-induced neuron death are complex, and it is likely multiple mechanisms interplay and contribute to the action of TD. In this study, we demonstrated that TD significantly increased intracellular calcium concentrations [Ca2+]iin cultured cortical neurons.

Results

TD drastically potentiated AMPA-triggered calcium influx and inhibited pre-mRNA editing of GluR2, a Ca2+-permeable subtype of AMPA receptors. The Ca2+permeability of GluR2 is regulated by RNA editing at the Q/R site. Edited GluR2 (R) subunits form Ca2+-impermeable channels, whereas unedited GluR2 (Q) channels are permeable to Ca2+flow. TD inhibited Q/R editing of GluR2 and increased the ratio of unedited GluR2. The Q/R editing of GluR2 is mediated by adenosine deaminase acting on RNA 2 (ADAR2). TD selectively decreased ADAR2 expression and its self-editing ability without affecting ADAR1 in cultured neurons and in the brain tissue. Over-expression of ADAR2 reduced AMPA-mediated rise of [Ca2+]iand protected cortical neurons against TD-induced cytotoxicity, whereas down-regulation of ADAR2 increased AMPA-elicited Ca2+influx and exacerbated TD-induced death of cortical neurons.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that TD-induced neuronal damage may be mediated by the modulation of ADAR2-dependent RNA Editing of GluR2.
Expression of the chemokine receptor CXCR4 in human hepatocellular carcinoma and its role in portal vein tumor thrombus
Authors: Li Nan , Guo Weixing , Shi Jie , Xue Jie , Hu Huasheng , Xie Dong , Wu Mengchao , Cheng Shuqun
Published: November 2010

Background

This study was conducted to investigate the expression of CXCR4 in portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) tissue and its possible role in the invasiveness of tumor thrombus cells.

Methods

We detected differential expression of CXCR4 between PVTT and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by an immunohistochemical assay. Lentivirus-mediated RNA interference and a migration assay were performed on human primary cells derived from PVTT to study the impact of CXCR4 on the invasiveness of HCC.

Results

The expression of CXCR4 in tumor thrombus tissue was higher than that in HCC tissue. The invasion ratio of PVTT cells was significantly decreased (P < 0.05) after being infected with a CXCR4-targeting siRNA lentivirus, indicating that downregulation of CXCR4 by lentivirus-mediated RNA interference significantly impaired the invasive potential of PVTT.

Conclusions

These results indicate that CXCR4 is an effective curative target for hepatocellular carcinomas with PVTT.
Synthesis of Zinc Isonicotinates by Solid-state Reactions: A Green Route to Coordination Polymers
Authors: Chen Jinxi , Zhang Ruobing
Published: November 2010

Two known coordination polymers, Zn(INA)2 and Zn(INA)2·2H2O (INA: isonicotinate), have been synthesized through solid-state reactions that are more efficient and environmentally friendly than conventional methods. By varying the reaction conditions, the solid-state reactions between the metal salt and bridging ligand could be rationally controlled to give different polymeric three-dimensional structures or a mononuclear coordination compound.
Effectiveness of Influenza Vaccination in the United Kingdom, 1996–2007
Authors: Jick Hershel , Hagberg Katrina Wilcox
Published: November 2010

Study Objective. To estimate the effectiveness of influenza vaccination in people in the United Kingdom at low risk for influenza during an 11‐year period from July 1996–June 2007.

Design. Case‐control study.

Data Source. United Kingdom General Practice Research Database.

Subjects. A total of 4985 patients (aged < 80 yrs) who were considered to be at low risk for influenza, but were diagnosed with influenza or influenza‐like illness from July 1996–June 2007, were identified as cases. A total of 19,940 controls who were also low‐risk individuals, who had no diagnosis of influenza, were matched to the cases by year of birth, sex, specific general practice, and date on which case patient was diagnosed with influenza (index date).

Measurements and Main Results. We identified previous vaccination status from the subjects' electronic medical records and evaluated the effect of timing of influenza vaccination and the number of previous annual vaccinations received. We estimated the relative risk of influenza in those who received the influenza vaccination compared with those who did not, conditional on the matching variables. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Age, sex, general practice, index date, and preexisting medical conditions were closely controlled for in the analysis. Vaccination conferred an important protective effect (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.60–0.91) when given within 4 months before seasonal influenza outbreaks. This effect was similar for each calendar year and across all ages.

Conclusion. Seasonal influenza vaccination provided substantial protection against clinically diagnosed influenza when given within 4 months of annual seasonal outbreaks in people at low risk. A review of the incidence of influenza over the 11‐year period provides compelling indirect evidence that influenza vaccines were similarly effective in those who were at high risk. These results provide a useful background to current and future influenza outbreaks whose course is uncertain.
Sloshing in concrete cylindrical tanks subjected to earthquake
Authors: Shahverdiani K. , Rahai A. , Khoshnoudian F.
Published: November 2010

The behaviour of cylindrical concrete tanks under seismic excitations is studied using the finite-element method. Furthermore, shaking table tests are carried out in order to check the reliability of the numerical model. Time history analysis of different models is performed using data from four major earthquakes. Different principal parameters, such as liquid sloshing, liquid viscosity and wall flexibility, are considered for their effects on tanks' responses. The results provide a value for wall thickness to tank diameter ratio which may be used as a guide in the consideration of wall flexibility effects. For the range of viscosity considered, no significant effect on the amplitude of the sloshing is observed. In addition, it should be emphasised that the consideration of the vertical component of earthquake excitation induces noticeable increases in the axial force of the walls, the liquid pressure and the wall shear forces which may result in cracking of the concrete tank. Finally, comparison is presented between the calculated maximum wave height and some reference established codes, showing the underestimation of superficial wave heights by the Iranian practical code.
Revisiting a flood simulation model based on PIC techniques
Authors: Cheung R. W. K. , Shao S.
Published: November 2010

A simple and effective two-dimensional flood simulation model based on particle-in-cell (PIC) techniques is revisited. The model solves shallow water equations using a combination of fixed grids and moving particles. In the computation, each fluid particle follows the law of motion induced by gravitational, frictional and viscous forces. The velocity and position of the particles are relocated at each individual grid point in the computational domain to give a macro-flow scenario. By using a documented flood case that happened in the Jingjiang River flood diversion area in China in 1954, the sensitivity of several model parameters is investigated. The convergence and accuracy of the model are demonstrated by adjusting the time steps and particle numbers. The spatial resolution of the proposed method is quantified using numerical error analysis. The predicted flood level is in general agreement with the observed data.
Lattice Boltzmann method for open-channel flows
Authors: Zhou J. G. , Liu H. , Shafiai S. , Peng Y. , Burrows R.
Published: November 2010

Open-channel flows are very common and important flows occurring in both natural and artificial watercourses such as rivers, canals and drainages, and irrigation and navigation channels. Correct prediction and simulation of the flows play a crucial role in channel design, river management and flood control. In theory, the flows can be efficiently and accurately described by the shallow-water equations in most cases. In fact, the solution to these equations has turned out to be a very successful tool to model different free-surface flows such as tides, tsunami, dam breaks, dyke breaks, bores and broken waves. Although there are many numerical methods available for solving the shallow-water equations (e.g. the finite-element method), they are often complicated and computationally demanding. Over the last decade, the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) has been developed as a very attractive numerical method in computational fluid dynamics. The method is extremely simple and efficient with its very easy treatment of boundary conditions and natural parallel processing, and is suitable for complex flows within complicated geometries. Consequently, the LBM has been developed for shallow-water equations with or without turbulence modelling (LABSWETM and LABSWE, respectively). This paper presents both methods and their application to typical open-channel flows. The results demonstrate the power, potential, applicability and accuracy of the LBM in simulations of many open-channel flows and also indicate that the method needs to be improved for some open-channel flow problems.
Finite-size Lyapunov exponents: a new tool for lake dynamics
Authors: Károlyi G. , Pattantyús-Ábrahám M. , Krámer T. , Józsa J. , Tél T.
Published: November 2010

Chaotic motion of particles in fluid flows was recognised decades ago but this phenomenon has only been acknowledged recently in civil engineering. Herein it is shown that chaotic advection has a wide range of important hydraulic and environmental applications. The most important characteristics of chaotic particle transport, such as the filamentary (fractal) distribution of advected particle ensembles and their importance for active chemical or biological processes, which has far-reaching ecological or environmental consequences, are reviewed. An important tool to discover and describe the filamentary distribution is the finite-size Lyapunov exponent. As a particular example, its application to an idealised shallow, wind-driven lake is presented. It is shown that the finite-size Lyapunov exponent provides a useful tool to investigate, for example, the spatial distribution of pollution in the lake – it can help to determine the most exposed shore segments and identify effectively mixed or stagnant regions in the lake.
Object-oriented programming and the extended finite-element method
Authors: Chamrová R. , Patzák B.
Published: November 2010

The paper deals with the extended finite-element method (X-FEM) and its object-oriented implementation. The X-FEM, which belongs to the family of methods based on the partition of unity, is a numerical technique that extends the classical finite-element method approach by enriching the solution space with tailored functions. This permits the natural reproduction of many features associated with the underlying problem, such as the discontinuities, singularities, boundary layers and so on, while retaining the advantages of finite-element formulation. The implementation of the X-FEM, particularly its integration into an existing code, is a complex task. In this paper, a design of an object-oriented X-FEM toolkit will be presented, with particular attention paid to its generality, extensibility and easy integration.
Current static design guidance for hollow-section joints
Authors: Zhao X.-L. , Wardenier J. , Packer J. A. , Vegte G. J. van der
Published: November 2010

The first edition of the International Institute of Welding (IIW) subcommission XV-E design recommendations on static strength of tubular joints was published in 1981. The second edition was published in 1989, which was the basis for the Cidect (International Committee for the Development and Study of Tubular Structures) design guides on the static strength of tubular joints in the early 1990s. Extensive research on tubular joints has been carried out all over the world in the last 20 years. There has hence been a need to update the current static design rules. This paper summarises the third edition of the IIW static design procedure for welded hollow-section joints. It also briefly describes the major changes made to the previous edition and the relevant research background in terms of validity ranges (yield stress), extension of recommendations (moment resistance and multiplanar joints), formulae harmonisation, chord stress function, overlap joints, and plate to tube joints. Two Cidect design guides were published recently, where the new (2009) IIW static design recommendations were adopted. The previous (1989) IIW static design recommendations still exist in many codes/guides. Explanation is given as to which codes/guides follow the IIW (1989) rules and which follow the IIW (2009) rules, and hence what the major differences are between them.
Effect of material properties on hollow section performance
Authors: Packer J. A. , Chiew S. P. , Tremblay R. , Martinez-Saucedo G.
Published: November 2010

Hollow structural sections for onshore steel construction are manufactured in diverse locations around the world, by either a hot-finishing or seamless process or – far more commonly – by cold-forming. The implications of using material by a particular process in various statically loaded or dynamically loaded applications are not fully appreciated. This paper hence reviews some of the key geometric and material properties that are inherent in several common hollow section production standards. Problems that have been encountered with certain cold-formed square and rectangular hollow sections, particularly with regard to hot-dip galvanising in North America and Asia, are elaborated. Besides galvanising, these same sections are now also subject to constraints for seismic applications. The difference in seismic performance between cold-formed, cold-formed and stress-relieved, and hot-finished hollow sections, when used as energy-dissipating members such as braces, has been a point of debate and speculation to date. An experimental project, in which the relative performance of each material type is evaluated by performing inelastic cyclic testing of large-scale tubular braces, is described, with comments on the suitability of various tube material types for concentrically braced steel frames under severe seismic loading. Considering all of these material and production issues, an industry-driven reappraisal of the cold-formed hollow structural section manufacturing specification in North America is being undertaken, which is also presented herein.
Structural design of elliptical hollow sections: a review
Authors: Chan T. M. , Gardner L. , Law K. H.
Published: November 2010

Tubular construction is synonymous with modern architecture. The familiar range of tubular sections – square, rectangular and circular hollow sections – has been recently extended to include elliptical hollow sections (EHSs). Due to differing flexural rigidities about the two principal axes, these new sections combine the elegance of circular hollow sections with the improved structural efficiency in bending of rectangular hollow sections. Following the introduction of structural steel EHSs, a number of investigations into their structural response have been carried out. This paper presents a state-of-the-art review of recent research on EHSs together with a sample of practical applications. The paper addresses fundamental research on elastic local buckling and post-buckling, cross-section classification, response in shear, member instabilities, connections and the behaviour of concrete-filled EHSs. Details of full-scale testing and numerical modelling studies are described, and the generation of statistically validated structural design rules, suitable for incorporation into international design codes, is outlined.
Castings in tubular structures – the state of the art
Authors: Herion S. , de Oliveira J.-C. , Packer J. A. , Christopoulos C. , Gray M. G.
Published: November 2010

During the past three decades, steel casting technologies and processes have developed significantly, making way for the production of high-quality castings that are capable of meeting the rigorous demands of structural applications. As a result, the use of steel castings in construction is becoming increasingly more accepted and commonplace. This article presents the state-of-the-art uses of steel castings in onshore construction and summarises recent publications to give an overview of the current status of research and use of cast steel in tubular structures in North America, Europe and Asia.
Tubular structures in China: state of the art and applications
Authors: Shen Z. , Chen Y. , Wang W. , Zhao X.
Published: November 2010

Tubular structures have been widely used in China owing to their excellent structural performance and attractive appearance, along with the rapid economic development and great events including the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2010 Shanghai EXPO. This paper presents the state of the art and applications of tubular structures in China in recent years. Apart from bridges, tubular structures are also commonly seen in spatial structures, high-rise buildings and transmission towers. Applications of tubular structures in these landmark buildings, such as the National Stadium ‘Bird's Nest' and the National Aquatics Center ‘Water Cube' are illustrated, focusing on the specific characteristics of each tubular structure. With the booming usage of tubular structures, considerable experiment-based research has been carried out in China. The latest developments of research on tubular joints in China are reviewed, along with the practical applications. Emphasis is placed on the static strength, non-rigid behaviour and seismic performance of special tubular joints. Based on results obtained from both research and practical applications, Chinese technical specifications for the design of tubular structures are established and also briefly introduced.
FE analysis for welded hollow-section joints and bolted joints
Authors: Vegte G. J. van der , Wardenier J. , Puthli R. S.
Published: November 2010

Major advances in both hardware and software during the last two decades have led to a rapid increase in the use of non-linear finite-element analyses in the field of tubular structures. This study gives an overview of the main aspects of finite-element analyses relevant to welded hollow-section joints and bolted joints, such as the solution technique (i.e. implicit versus explicit methods), choice of element type, material non-linearity, modelling of the welds and limitations in predicting certain failure modes. A comparison of use and the results of implicit and explicit solvers are illustrated in an example on buckling of an L-shaped rectangular hollow-section column under cyclic loading. In a further example, relevant details are given of explicit finite-element analyses on large-scale bolted beam-to-column connections.
Re-evaluation of the moment capacity of CHS joints
Authors: Vegte G. J. van der , Wardenier J. , Qian X. D. , Choo Y. S.
Published: November 2010

Current design formulae for circular hollow-section (CHS) T and X joints loaded by brace in-plane or out-of-plane bending moments are based on a limited number of tests available from the early 1980s. In the last three decades, many experimental studies and numerical research programmes have been conducted in this area. This study re-evaluates the brace moment capacity strength of T and X joints. The available data are checked against possible member failures, while the experimental data are carefully screened with respect to outliers. Detailed comparisons are made between finite-element results and ‘reliable' test data obtained from different research programmes. Based on the selected data, the existing strength equations are updated.
Improvement of the Oxidation Resistance of CoNiCrAlY Bond Coats Sprayed by High Velocity Oxygen-Fuel onto Nickel Superalloy Substrate
Authors: Fossati Alessio , Ferdinando Martina Di , Lavacchi Alessandro , Scrivani Andrea , Giolli Carlo , Bardi Ugo
Published: November 2010

CoNiCrAlY powders with similar granulometry and chemical composition, but different starting reactivity toward oxygen, were sprayed onto superalloy substrates by High Velocity Oxygen-Fuel producing coatings of similar thicknesses. After spraying, samples were maintained at 1,273 K in air for different test periods of up to 5,000 hours. Morphological, microstructural, compositional and electrochemical analyses were performed on the coated samples in order to assess the high temperature oxidation resistance provided by the two different powders. The powder with higher starting reactivity towards oxygen improves the oxidation resistance of the coated samples by producing thinner and more adherent thermally grown oxide layers.
Le compte rendu, une grammaire du discours de la thèse d'État de géographie (1960-1984)
Authors: Bourgeat Serge
Published: November 2010

Entre 1960 et 1984, les revues de géographie ont publié de très nombreux comptes rendus de thèses d’État. Ce type d’articles fut même le principal discours écrit concernant la thèse. Outre leur aspect fonctionnel de résumés d’ouvrages longs et parfois peu accessibles, ces textes qui relevaient de l’écriture de genre furent aussi une véritable grammaire du discours de la thèse, relayant les principales attentes disciplinaires et formelles de la communauté et jouant ainsi un rôle normatif. Or la période fut peu ou prou celle du « changement de paradigme ». Comment les comptes rendus ont-ils accompagné cette mutation ?
Subjectivité, socialité, spatialité : le corps, cet impensé de la géographie
Authors: Di Méo Guy
Published: November 2010

Cet article argumente en faveur de la prise en compte du corps humain comme objet géographique. Il constate que le corps reste, à ce jour et à quelques exceptions près, plus nombreuses depuis le début des années 2000, un impensé de la géographie française, à la différence de ce que l’on observe dans les écrits géographiques en langue anglaise. C’est-à-dire une réalité toujours présente dans son propos, mais jamais explicitée ni évoquée dans les problématiques, théories et méthodes que construisent ou utilisent les géographes. L’auteur replace ici le corps dans une conception personnelle de la géographie sociale. Il en fait le point de rencontre des rapports du social, du spatial et du sujet. Le corps est envisagé sous cinq angles qui en éclairent l’intérêt géographique. Il est d’abord conçu comme un espace générateur d’espaces, puis comme un organisme vivant, objet et sujet d’une écologie humaine. L’accent est mis ensuite sur sa fonction de médium des interactions et de la communication des individus dans l’espace social. Les deux dernières parties portent sur son rôle identitaire : d’abord observé en regard de l’image de soi qu’il contribue à produire et du point de vue de la distinction sociale ; puis analysé en tant qu’incorporation du social, du sexe et du genre, mais aussi des attaches territoriales ( embodiment ).
Une géographie de la fermeture résidentielle en France. Quelle(s) méthode(s) de recensement pour quelle représentation du phénomène ?
Authors: Billard Gérald , Madoré François
Published: November 2010

L’objet de cet article est de tester deux méthodes de recensement permettant d’offrir une représentation de la géographie de la fermeture résidentielle avec contrôle des accès en France. La première est basée sur une identification (sites Web des promoteurs) des programmes immobiliers en cours de commercialisation qui peuvent être considérés comme fermés avec contrôle des accès. La deuxième est un recensement des annonces de logements mis en vente ou proposés à la location compris dans un ensemble fermé et/ou sécurisé. La géographie esquissée est marquée par l’ubiquité et la discrimination territoriale au profit du sud. Quelques pistes sont explorées pour comprendre ces logiques géographiques.
Les grands ensembles de banlieue comme menaces urbaines ?
Authors: Germes Melina , Schirmel Henning , Brailich Adam , Glaszei Georg , Pütz Robert
Published: November 2010

Depuis les années 1960, la physionomie des villes européennes est fortement marquée par les grands ensembles, autant à l’Est qu’à l’Ouest. Nous proposons une recherche comparative de la constitution discursive des grands ensembles de banlieue en Allemagne, en France et en Pologne. Avec la théorie des discours nous formulons le postulat que la signification des espaces sociaux est construite dans le discours, au sein duquel l’ordre socio-spatial est institué. Afin d’identifier les différents modèles discursifs locaux, internationaux ou nationaux, nous procédons à une analyse lexicométrique et à une analyse qualitative de grands quotidiens de la presse écrite. Celles-ci montrent comment, au-delà de la diversité des qualifications des grands ensembles, ceux-ci sont constitués à travers le prisme de la sécurité, étant tantôt menacés en Pologne, tantôt menaçants en France et en Allemagne. Les significations contextuelles ne sont pas contraintes aux frontières nationales ni aux frontières linguistiques, en ce que les discours sur les grands ensembles en Allemagne de l’Est et de l’Ouest sont différenciés.
Le projet d'hôpital commun transfrontalier de Cerdagne : des difficultés de la coopération transfrontalière en matière de santé dans un contexte pourtant favorable
Authors: Séchet Raymonde , Keerle Régis
Published: November 2010

Le projet de construction de l’hôpital commun transfrontalier de Cerdagne à Puigcerdà est un bon révélateur des difficultés de la coopération transfrontalière en Europe. Le texte traite des difficultés d’émergence de ce projet et de ses enjeux en matière d’offre de soins et d’organisation territoriale. Le soutien au projet d’acteurs clés, dont certains ont exercé des responsabilités nationales, l’unité du bassin de vie ainsi que les enjeux identitaires et la complémentarité de l’offre de soins en Cerdagne française et en Cerdagne espagnole plaident en faveur de ce projet. Mais ces spécificités locales se combinent avec les contrastes entre les systèmes sanitaires catalan et français pour expliquer la relative lenteur de la réalisation du projet. Les principaux obstacles à la coopération transfrontalière en matière de santé sont administratifs, réglementaires et financiers.
Diaspora, développement et urbanisation : des Burkinabè de l'étranger acteurs des projets urbains de Zaca et Ouaga 2000 à Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso)
Authors: Bertoncello Brigitte
Published: November 2010

Inscrit dans un nouvel ensemble de recherches portant sur l’articulation entre migration et urbanisation, le présent article a pour objectif de comprendre comment les migrants, à travers leurs investissements, participent à la fabrique urbaine de leur pays d’origine et deviennent des acteurs du développement des villes. Le retour des Burkinabè de Côte d’Ivoire dans leur pays d’origine, perçu par le gouvernement de B. Compaoré comme un risque de déstabilisation économique et sociale, a généré un nouveau regard sur la question migratoire. Après avoir été négligés, les Burkinabè de l’étranger sont aujourd’hui considérés comme des développeurs potentiels. Depuis 2002, acteurs public et privé mettent en place des dispositifs facilitant mais aussi orientant leurs projets d’investissement au pays. Il s’agit en effet de canaliser l’argent des migrants vers les deux grands projets urbains de Ouagadougou, ZACA et Ouaga 2000, devant permettre d’afficher dynamisme et modernité d’une capitale en mouvement. Les migrants, autrefois porteurs de projets de développement, s’insèrent aujourd’hui dans des projets urbains déjà pensés par l’État selon un modèle occidental. Au cœur de politiques de récupération, ils semblent perdre leur autonomie mais reste leur capacité à se réapproprier les projets urbains.
L'œuvre d'Abraham et de Torok : un renouveau pour la psychanalyse de l'art
Authors: Hachet Pascal
Published: November 2010

Résumé Freud et les tenants de l’orthodoxie psychanalytique ont fait équivaloir la créativité artistique à la sublimation de pulsions sexuelles. L’œuvre de Nicolas Abraham et de Maria Torok a suscité des travaux qui interrogent également ce que la créativité doit aux clivages du Moi et à leur influence transgénérationnelle. Cet article présente quelques-unes de ces études qui témoignent d’un renouvellement décisif de l’approche des œuvres d’art en psychanalyse.
Comment l'architecture évolue
Authors: Gabriel Jean-François
Published: November 2010

Résumé En répondant partiellement à la question « Où sommes-nous ? » l’architecture nous aide à répondre à l’autre question : « Qui sommes-nous ? » Au cours de l’histoire, l’architecture a été l’objet de maintes définitions. La plus déroutante est peut-être celle qui affirme que le chaos est aussi une forme d’ordre … Déjà au xvi e siècle, Leon Battista Alberti moquait avec esprit les partisans du chaos en architecture. Bien au contraire, l’architecture a toujours été un effort d’organisation de l’espace. Il existe heureusement deux tendances particulièrement prometteuses pour l’architecture contemporaine : l’une trouve ses racines dans la tradition classique, qui est loin d’être épuisée ; l’autre tendance se fonde sur une meilleure compréhension du potentiel des structures dites « spatiales », un potentiel en pleine expansion et dont les limites sont inconnues. Chacune de ces tendances est infiniment riche de possibilités. Rien ne s’oppose à ce qu’elles coexistent, chacune à sa place, pour satisfaire la multiplicité de nos besoins.