bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Bi‐Directional Calcium Signaling Between Adjacent Leukocytes and Trophoblast‐Like Cells
Authors: Elfline Megan , Clark Andrea , Petty Howard R. , Romero Roberto 
Published: March 2010

Citation Elfline M, Clark A, Petty HR, Romero R. Bi‐directional calcium signaling between adjacent leukocytes and trophoblast‐like cells. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010Problem  Trophoblasts are believed to play an important role in mitigating immunological responses against the fetus. To better understand the nature of trophoblast–leukocyte interactions, we have studied signal transduction during intercellular interactions.Method of study  Using a highly sensitive microfluorometric ratioing method and Ca2+‐sensitive dyes, we measured Ca2+ signals in trophoblast‐like cell lines (JEG‐3 and JAR) or in leukocytes (neutrophils and monocytes) during intercellular contact.Results  Trophoblast cell lines exhibit Ca2+ signals during leukocyte contact. In contrast, leukocytes cannot elicit Ca2+ signals in non‐opsonized tumour cells, suggesting that Ca2+ signaling is not a general feature of cell–cell encounters. Similarly, leukocytes demonstrate Ca2+ signals during contact with trophoblast cell lines. Ca2+ signals were confirmed using three dyes and with the Ca2+ buffer BAPTA.Conclusion  We suggest that leukocyte‐to‐trophoblast interactions lead to mutual Ca2+ signaling events in both cell types, which may contribute to immunoregulation at the materno–fetal interface.
REVIEW ARTICLE: Toll‐Like Receptors at the Maternal–Fetal Interface in Normal Pregnancy and Pregnancy Disorders
Authors: Koga Kaori , Mor Gil 
Published: March 2010

Citation Koga K, Mor G. Toll‐like receptors at the maternal–fetal interface in normal pregnancy and pregnancy disorders. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010Toll‐like receptors (TLR) form the major family of pattern recognition receptors (PRR) that are involved in innate immunity. Innate immune responses against microorganisms at the maternal–fetal interface may have a significant impact on the success of pregnancy, as intrauterine infections have been shown to be strongly associated with certain disorders of pregnancy. At the maternal–fetal interface, TLRs are expressed not only in the immune cells but also in non‐immune cells such as trophoblasts and decidual cells; moreover, their expression patterns vary according to the stage of pregnancy. Here, we will describe potential functions of TLRs in these cells, their recognition and response to microorganisms, and their involvement in the innate immunity. The impact of TLR‐mediated innate immune response will be discussed via animal model studies, as well as clinical observations.
The Modern Industrial Revolution, Exit, and the Failure of Internal Control Systems
Authors: Jensen Michael C. 
Published: March 2010

This article, which is based on the author's Presidential address to the American Finance Association in 1993, argues that squeezing out excess capital and capacity is one of the most formidable ongoing challenges facing not only the U.S. economy, but the economies of all industrialized nations. In making this argument, the article draws striking parallels between the 19th‐century industrial revolution and worldwide economic developments in the last three decades. In both periods, technological advances led to not only sharp increases in productivity and dramatic reductions in prices, but also massive obsolescence and overcapacity. And much as the great M&A wave of the 1890s reduced capacity by consolidating some 1,800 companies into roughly 150, the leveraged takeovers, LBOs, and other leveraged recapitalizations of the 1980s provided “healthy adjustments” to overcapacity that was building in many sectors of the U.S. economy.To help public companies make the necessary adjustments to overcapacity, the author urges them to consider adopting some of the features of private equity, including significant equity stakes for managers, high leverage or payouts, and the recruiting of active investors as “partners in the business.”
Just Say No to Wall Street: Putting a Stop to the Earnings Game
Authors: Fuller Joseph , Jensen Michael C. 
Published: March 2010

CEOs and CFOs put themselves in a bind by providing earnings guidance and then making decisions designed to meet Wall Street's expectations for quarterly earnings. When earnings appear to be coming in short of projections, top managers often react by suggesting or demanding that middle and lower level managers redo their forecasts, plans, and budgets. In some cases, top executives simply acquiesce to increasingly unrealistic analyst forecasts and adopt them as the basis for setting organizational goals and developing internal budgets. But in cases where external expectations are impossible to meet, either approach sets up the firm and its managers for failure.Using the experiences of several companies, the authors illustrate the dangers of conforming to market pressures for unrealistic growth targets. They argue that an overvalued stock, by encouraging overpriced acquisitions and other risky, value‐destroying bets, can be as damaging to the long‐run health of a company as an undervalued stock.Putting an end to the “earnings game” requires that CEOs reclaim the initiative by avoiding earnings guidance and managing expectations in such a way that their stocks trade reasonably close to their intrinsic value. In place of earnings forecasts, management should provide information about the company's strategic goals and main value drivers. They should also talk about the risks associated with the strategies, and management's plans to deal with them.
Are Incentives the Bricks or the Building?
Authors: Schmidt Ron 
Published: March 2010

The efforts of economists to emphasize the importance of incentives as determinants of organizational performance, while successful to some degree, may have left the mistaken impression that “getting the incentives right” is the only task requiring the attention of senior executives when designing corporate organizations. The author identifies the incentive‐intensive companies envisioned by economists as “mercenary organizations” (or MOs), or companies whose distinguishing feature is near‐complete reliance on financial rewards and controls. Citing the difficulties of devising an effective incentive system that cannot be gamed (which he calls the organizational equivalent of “an anti‐gravity machine”), the article questions whether such organizations are likely to yield superior performance.As an alternative to paying more attention to incentive design, the author suggests devoting more corporate resources to seeking and attracting individuals with low “monitoring costs.” After holding up examples of top executives who appear committed to that search, the author posits a “character‐rich” organization (CRO) as an alternative to the MO of the economists.Then, viewing all companies as occupying points on a continuum with the MO and CRO as its poles, the author argues that all companies combine elements of both kinds of organizations. And perhaps most important, the CEOs of many of the most successful large organizations, without minimizing the importance of incentives, pay even greater attention to the search for trustworthy individuals and the creation of a culture of teamwork and accountability.
Early signs and symptoms of psychosis among Palauan adolescents
Authors: Madraisau Sheri , Tomoichi Ulai , Ord Lisa M. , Florsheim Paul , Phillips Lisa J. , Blailes Francisca , Basilius Merlyn , Kuartei Stevenson , Tiobech Josepha , Myles‐Worsley Marina , Ngiralmau Hilda 
Published: March 2010

AbstractAim: This study was designed to identify early symptoms associated with the occurrence of psychosis during adolescence.Method: Participants were recruited in the Republic of Palau, an isolated island nation in Micronesia with a prevalence rate for schizophrenia of 1.99%. Diagnostic interviews were used to obtain reports of early and current symptoms from 112 genetically high‐risk (GHR) and 208 genetically low‐risk (GLR) adolescents (ages 16–23). Based on current psychotic symptoms, participants were sorted into three groups: non‐clinical, at‐risk/symptomatic risk and clinically symptomatic.Results: Multivariate analysis of variance revealed several between‐group differences on rates of early symptoms. Most notably, youth who were in the GHR‐clinically symptomatic group reported significantly higher rates of early marijuana use than GLR‐clinically symptomatic youth, who were significantly more likely to report early symptoms of depression and behaviour disorders. In addition, several gender based differences in the link between early symptoms and adolescent onset psychosis were noted.Conclusions: Findings are generally consistent with previous research on early indicators, though several unexpected findings suggest that results from this study may not be fully generalizable beyond this relatively isolated and culturally distinct Micronesian nation.
Internal ribosomal entry‐site activities of clinical isolate‐derived hepatitis A virus and inhibitory effects of amantadine
Authors: Kanda Tatsuo , Imazeki Fumio , Nakamoto Shingo , Okitsu Kohichiroh , Fujiwara Keiichi , Yokosuka Osamu 
Published: March 2010

Aim:  Little is known about specific naturally‐occurring internal ribosomal entry site (IRES) activities of hepatitis A virus (HAV). We examined these activities using the bicistronic reporter assay and the effects of antiviral amantadine against their activities.Methods:  Six HAV IRES clones from three patients with fulminant hepatitis and three with self‐limited acute hepatitis were obtained. The activities of their IRES were analyzed using bicistronic reporter assay in hepatocyte‐ and non‐hepatocyte‐derived cell lines, and the potential efficaciousness of the amantadine was examined.Results:  One clone from fulminant hepatitis had a deletion in domains III–IV of HAV IRES had higher IRES activities than HM175 in HLE and Huh‐7 cells. In Huh‐7 cells, amantadine is effective for inhibiting HAV IRES activities, and especially fulminant hepatitis‐derived ones.Conclusion:  HAV IRES derived from clinical isolates have various activities. Bicistronic reporter assay using clinical isolates may be another useful tool for testing antiviral activities like those of amantadine and the new acridines and hydrazones recently reported.
Underlying issues on the selection, use and conservation of building limestone
Authors: Smith Bernard J. , Gómez-heras Miguel , Viles Heather A. 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
An argument is presented that, despite popular assumptions, many limestones, especially the wide range of clastic and, in general, granular limestones, do not decay in a steady and predictable pattern in response to slow dissolution. Instead these stones, especially when used in construction in polluted environments, invariably decay episodically through physical breakdown. Most commonly this is accomplished through a variety of salt weathering mechanisms that, if unconstrained, can lead to the rapid, catastrophic decay of building blocks and their complete loss – a process that has driven the extensive programmes of stone replacement that are typical of buildings constructed of these stones. In polluted environments, especially those rich in sulphur and particulates, the most common constraint on accelerated decay has been the rapid development of gypsum crusts that, for example, could rapidly ‘heal’ the scars left by contour scaling. It is ironic, therefore, that any reduction in pollution could conceivably lead to increased erosion by retarding this healing process. Because of this temporal variability of decay and its translation into spatial complexity, it is important that further research is undertaken to understand controls on the decay of these important building stones so that future conservation strategies can be appropriately informed.
Historic lime mortars: potential effects of local climate on the evolution of binder morphology and composition
Authors: Dotter Kara R. 
Published: March 2010

Abstract

This research explores preliminary observations regarding the potential effects of local climate conditions on the evolution of binder morphology and the composition or mineralogy of historic lime mortars. Samples were collected from historic buildings, one group dating to
c
. late nineteenth century and an older group from
c
. Sixteenth–Seventeenth century, with both groups representing distinct climates. The samples were then prepared and subjected to polarized light microscopy (PLM), point count, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and backscatter election imaging (BSE) analysis to investigate differences in porosity, environmental contaminants and morphological characteristics of the lime binder. By examining the effects of climate on lime mortars, conservators can improve identification and condition assessment of historic lime mortars, better understand causes of damage and decay attributed to previous mortar repairs, and formulate more appropriate conservation mortars to improve protection and conservation of our architectural heritage.
Crushed limestone as an aggregate in concrete production: the Cyprus case
Authors: Ioannou I. , Petrou M. F. , Fournari R. , Andreou A. , Hadjigeorgiou C. , Tsikouras B. , Hatzipanagiotou K. 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
Limestones in Cyprus are mainly quarried for the production of coarse and fine aggregates to be used in concrete. The objective of this paper is to examine the properties of crushed limestone aggregates. The petrographical and physico-mechanical properties of these aggregates are described and their suitability for concrete production is examined. The coarse crushed limestone aggregates from Cyprus have water absorption values exceeding 3.3%, which is considered high for concrete applications. Their abrasion resistance (Los Angeles) values are consistently above 23%, while their weathering coefficients generally range between 10 and 30%. The fine crushed limestone aggregates show significantly lower water absorption values (less than 2.2%) and higher weathering coefficients (above 35%) than the coarse aggregates. The weathering coefficient of crushed limestone aggregates increases with a decrease in the fraction size up to 5 mm, after which it remains fairly constant. The physico-mechanical properties of crushed limestone aggregates are distinctly variable irrespective of the fact that they belong to the same geological formation and show relatively similar petrography.
On the use of eggshell lime and tuffeau powder to formulate an appropriate mortar for restoration purposes
Authors: Beck Kévin , Brunetaud Xavier , Mertz Jean-Didier , Al-Mukhtar Muzahim 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
Preservation of cultural heritage, especially historic monuments, is a vital task. In addition, waste recovery is an essential goal of sustainable development. In this study the properties of a food waste, eggshells, and a quarry waste, powder obtained from stone-extraction operations, are evaluated in terms of their possible use in restoration mortar.
An excellent lime has been developed based on eggshell calcination. A lime-based mortar exclusively composed of this eggshell lime and tuffeau powder was developed and characterized in order to demonstrate its compatibility with restoration works. To pursue this objective, microstructural, physical and mechanical properties were investigated and compared to those of the tuffeau limestone.
The tested formulation using tuffeau powder was found to meet compatibility requirements up until the hygrometric environment lowered the water content of the mortar. The desiccation of the mortar can then generate shrinkage cracks leading to mortar crumbling. As a consequence, hygrometric susceptibility of the mortar is an essential parameter to be investigated in order to study the durability of lime-based mortars made out of limestone powder.
Pore structure and durability of Portuguese limestones: a case study
Authors: Figueiredo C. , Folha R. , Maurício A. , Alves C. , Aires-Barros L. 
Published: March 2010

Abstract

Exposed stone surfaces containing complex systems of pores, fractures and grain boundaries provide the surfaces where chemical, physical and biological deterioration processes take place. The pore space represents the preferred area for physical, chemical and biological weathering processes. It plays a significant role in the behaviour of porous materials. A full understanding of pore-channel network morphology, size and connectivity is important in stone decay assessment and conservation works. A contribution to the understanding of the role played by the pore system in controlling fluid-related properties and resistance to salt crystallization of limestones is presented. Optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and mercury injection porosimetry (MIP) were used to characterize the pore structure of two Portuguese dimension stones (‘Semi-rijo’ and ‘Moca-Creme’) widely used for pavements and the cladding of buildings. Fluid migration physical tests (open and free porosity, capillary imbibition, and Hirschwald coefficient) were also performed, according to European (
EN 1925:1999
;
EN 1936:1999
) and French (
N FB 10-504:1973
) Standards. The resistance to salt crystallization was determined using European Standard
EN 12370:1999
. An integrated analysis facilitated comparison between durability results with stone pore network characteristics, fluid transport properties and petrographical features, suggesting the influence of available porosity and bedding.
The effect of combustion-derived particulates on the short-term modification of temperature and moisture loss from Portland Limestone
Authors: Searle D. E. , Mitchell D. J. 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
It is known that cyclic heating–cooling and wetting–drying can play a significant role in the long-term deterioration of building stone. These cycles can be modified by the deposition of atmospheric particulates, which darken surfaces, resulting in changes in the absorptivity and emissivity characteristics of the stone. The capacity of diesel and coal particulates to modify the moisture and temperature regime of Portland Limestone and Hollington Sandstone was investigated. Through a greater capacity to lower the albedo of the stone and enhance the absorption of radiant energy, diesel particulate was shown to significantly increase the rate of moisture loss, temperature, and rates of heating and cooling of Portland Limestone. With particulates from diesel combustion now becoming one of the dominant particulate types found in urban centres, potential implications for future stone conservation are discussed.
The use of limestone in a historic context – the experience of Malta
Authors: Cassar Joann 
Published: March 2010

AbstractThe Maltese Islands measure only 316 km2, have a population of just over 405 000 and are situated in the central Mediterranean. They are composed of sedimentary rocks, of which the Globigerina and Coralline Limestones have been used as building materials since prehistoric times. This paper gives an overview of the use of these materials, and other imported materials, for building from prehistoric times to the present day, and also looks at the exploitation of the underground environment through the ages.
Measurements of soiling and colour change using outdoor rephotography and image processing in Adobe Photoshop along the southern façade of the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford
Authors: Thornbush Mary J. 
Published: March 2010

Abstract

This paper builds on work using Adobe Photoshop as image-processing software to obtain (histogram-based) quantification of camera-captured images. The analysis tracks cross-temporal surface colour change (in 2005 and 2007) at the façade-scale of a limestone building (cleaned between 2006 and 2007) by means of digital photographs obtained in repeat photographic surveys taken under different outdoor lighting conditions (of a clear sky v. overcast). The relevance of the study is to contribute to further research using the integrated digital photography and image processing (IDIP) method in an outdoor setting (O-IDIP) with differing levels of light at a façade- (building) scale necessary for assessments of soiling affecting decisions of maintenance and restoration. Calibration was performed using spectrophotometric data (acquired in the winter of 2006). Findings show that the calibrated method is able to measure change before v. after the cleaning of the southern façade, which was darker in 2005 (with a lower level of lightness), especially at the east elevation. Lightness (surface darkening or blackening) is more affected by outdoor lighting conditions than chromatic values along green–red (
a
) and blue–yellow (
b
) channels of colour. These findings confirm that there is more error associated with soiling measurements at the façade-scale (in an outdoor setting).
Two-dimensional resistivity surveys of the moisture content of historic limestone walls in Oxford, UK: implications for understanding catastrophic stone deterioration
Authors: Sass O. , Viles H. A. 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
Catastrophic deterioration of limestone facades occurs where areas of stonework become rapidly hollowed out. It affects many historic buildings in Oxford, especially where soot-rich gypsum crusts have accumulated. In order to understand the processes of catastrophic deterioration we need to understand the microenvironmental conditions, especially the moisture distributions in the deteriorating walls. Geoelectric methods, in the form of two-dimensional (2D) resistivity surveys, have been used to study the distribution and amount of water stored in deteriorating limestone walls within the historic centre of Oxford. Fifteen vertical profiles, each 2–2.5 m in length, have been monitored at five sites using 50 medical electrodes and GeoTom equipment. Calculated moisture contents and distributions are presented for those profiles that extend up to 40 cm into the wall. The data indicate the diversity and complexity of moisture distributions within these often heterogeneous walls, which have also had long histories of decay and conservation. Replacement stone patches show consistently higher moisture conditions than the surrounding stone. Most profiles indicate the presence of wetter patches 5–10 cm behind the wall face under blackened crusts. Catastrophically decayed sections of profiles often exhibit wetter near-surface conditions than surrounding stonework, whilst areas with shallow but active decay are often much drier than surrounding crusted stone. In conclusion, the results give preliminary confirmation of a simple model of catastrophic decay and illustrate the complexity of moisture regimes in historic walls.
Carbonate rocks in the Mediterranean region – from classical to innovative uses of building stone
Authors: Calvo José P. , Regueiro Manuel 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
Carbonate rocks are present in many geological formations of the Mediterranean region, thus having favoured their common use as building stone for the many civilizations that inhabited the area throughout history. The wide presence of carbonate rocks has been supplemented by a large variety of rock types that can be found in monumental, funerary and normal constructions. Five main carbonate rock types used as building stone can be differentiated: metamorphic marble; banded fine-grained limestone; shell limestone; travertine; and brecciated–nodular carbonate rocks. In most cases these carbonate rocks have been traditionally used, although new rock types are currently marketed. Nowadays, several Mediterranean countries are major producers of carbonate building stone that is marketed for its ornamental and decorative characteristics. Italy, Spain and Turkey are placed in high rank positions of the global carbonate ornamental stone market, whilst Greece, France, Croatia, Israel, Morocco, Egypt, Algeria and Tunisia produce mainly for internal consumption.