bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Merging of Numerical Intervals in Entropy-Based Discretization
Authors: Grzymala-Busse Jerzy W. , Mroczek Teresa
Published: November 2018

As previous research indicates, a multiple-scanning methodology for discretization of numerical datasets, based on entropy, is very competitive. Discretization is a process of converting numerical values of the data records into discrete values associated with numerical intervals defined over the domains of the data records. In multiple-scanning discretization, the last step is the merging of neighboring intervals in discretized datasets as a kind of postprocessing. Our objective is to check how the error rate, measured by tenfold cross validation within the C4.5 system, is affected by such merging. We conducted experiments on 17 numerical datasets, using the same setup of multiple scanning, with three different options for merging: no merging at all, merging based on the smallest entropy, and merging based on the biggest entropy. As a result of the Friedman rank sum test (5% significance level) we concluded that the differences between all three approaches are statistically insignificant. There is no universally best approach. Then, we repeated all experiments 30 times, recording averages and standard deviations. The test of the difference between averages shows that, for a comparison of no merging with merging based on the smallest entropy, there are statistically highly significant differences (with a 1% significance level). In some cases, the smaller error rate is associated with no merging, in some cases the smaller error rate is associated with merging based on the smallest entropy. A comparison of no merging with merging based on the biggest entropy showed similar results. So, our final conclusion was that there are highly significant differences between no merging and merging, depending on the dataset. The best approach should be chosen by trying all three approaches.
Impact of Multilateral Trade Liberalization on Resource Revenue
Authors: Gnangnon Sena Kimm , Brun Jean-François
Published: November 2018

This paper investigates the impact of multilateral trade liberalization on resource revenue, using an unbalanced panel dataset comprising 57 countries, including both developed and developing countries, over the period 1995–2015. By means of the two-step system Generalized Methods of Moments (GMM) estimator, the empirical analysis suggests that multilateral trade liberalization exerts a negative effect on resource revenue, probably at the benefit of non-resource revenue. However, this effect over the full sample hides a positive effect of multilateral trade liberalization on resource revenue in poorest countries, and a negative effect of multilateral trade liberalization on resource revenue in non-poorest countries of the sample. Additionally, the negative effect of multilateral trade liberalization on resource revenue over the full sample appears to be dependent on the degree of domestic trade liberalization. In fact, multilateral trade liberalization genuinely induces a reducing effect on resource revenue only if countries liberalize their domestic trade regime beyond a minimum level.
Strategy to Explore Magnetized Cosmic Web with Forthcoming Large Surveys of Rotation Measure
Authors: Akahori Takuya
Published: November 2018

The warm-hot intergalactic medium (WHIM) is a candidate for the missing baryons in the Universe. If the WHIM is permeated with the intergalactic magnetic field (IGMF), the Faraday rotation measure (RM) of the WHIM is imprinted in linearly-polarized emission from extragalactic objects. In this article, we discuss strategies to explore the WHIM’s RM from forthcoming radio broadband and wide-field polarization sky surveys. There will be two observational breakthroughs in the coming decades; the RM grid and Faraday tomography. They will allow us to find ideal RM sources for the study of the IGMF and give us unique information of the WHIM along the line of sight.
Breaking up Sedentary Time in Overweight/Obese Adults on Work Days and Non-Work Days: Results from a Feasibility Study
Authors: De Jong Nathan P. , Debache Isaac , Pan Zhaoxing , Garnotel Mael , Lyden Kate , Sueur Cédric , Simon Chantal , Bessesen Daniel H. , Bergouignan Audrey
Published: November 2018

Office workers are vulnerable to the adverse health effects of sedentary behavior (i.e., sitting time). Increasing physical activity and preventing time spent sitting is an occupational health priority. This randomized crossover design study compared the short-term (3-days) effects of hourly interruptions of sedentary time with 5-min micrrobouts of activity for 9 hours (MICRO) to a sedentary control condition (SED) and a duration-matched continuous single bout of physical activity (45-min/d, ONE) condition on inclinometer-derived sitting-time on work and non-work days in sedentary overweight/obese adults. Differences in sitting/lying, standing, stepping, number of sit/stand transitions, time spent in moderate and vigorous activity (MVPA), energy expenditure, self-perceived vigor and fatigue, and insulin sensitivity were also examined. Twenty-two participants (10M/12F; 31.7 ± 1.3 year old BMI 30.4 ± 0.5 kg/m2) completed all conditions. No between-condition effects were observed in sitting-time and sit/stand transitions. Both interventions increased daily steps, MVPA and energy expenditure with increases being greater in ONE than MICRO. Feelings of vigor and fasting insulin sensitivity were also improved. Participants reported less fatigue with MICRO than SED and ONE. Both interventions increase physical activity and energy expenditure in occupational and leisure-time contexts. The sustainability of these effects over the long term and on health outcomes will need to be tested in future studies.
Utilising the ‘Getting to Outcomes®’ Framework in Community Engagement for Development and Implementation of Sickle Cell Disease Newborn Screening in Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Inusa Baba P.D. , Anie Kofi A. , Lamont Andrea , Dogara Livingstone G. , Ojo Bola , Ijei Ifeoma , Atoyebi Wale , Gwani Larai , Gani Esther , Hsu Lewis
Published: November 2018

Background: Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) has been designated by WHO as a public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa, and the development of newborn screening (NBS) is crucial to the reduction of high SCD morbidity and mortality. Strategies from the field of implementation science can be useful for supporting the translation of NBS evidence from high income countries to the unique cultural context of sub-Saharan Africa. One such strategy is community engagement at all levels of the healthcare system, and a widely-used implementation science framework, “Getting to Outcomes®” (GTO), which incorporates continuous multilevel evaluation by stakeholders about the quality of the implementation. Objectives: (1) to obtain critical information on potential barriers to NBS in the disparate ethnic groups and settings (rural and urban) in the healthcare system of Kaduna State in Nigeria; and, (2) to assist in the readiness assessment of Kaduna in the implementation of a sustainable NBS programme for SCD. Methods: Needs assessment was conducted with stakeholder focus groups for two days in Kaduna state, Nigeria, in November 2017. Results: The two-day focus group workshop had a total of 52 participants. Asking and answering the 10 GTO accountability questions provided a structured format to understand strengths and weaknesses in implementation. For example, we found a major communication gap between policy-makers and user groups. Conclusion: In a two-day community engagement workshop, stakeholders worked successfully together to address SCD issues, to engage with each other, to share knowledge, and to prepare to build NBS for SCD in the existing healthcare system.
A Comparison of Experimental and Computational Heat Transfer Results for a Leading Edge Impingement System
Authors: Pearce Robert , Ireland Peter , Dane Ed , Telisinghe Janendra
Published: November 2018

Leading edge impingement systems are increasingly being used for high pressure turbine blades in gas turbine engines, in regions where very high heat loads are encountered. The flow structure in such systems can be very complex and high resolution experimental data is required for engine-realistic systems to enable code validation and optimal design. This paper presents spatially resolved heat transfer distributions for an engine-realistic impingement system for multiple different hole geometries, with jet Reynolds numbers in the range of 13,000–22,000. Following this, Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes computational fluid dynamics simulations are compared to the experimental data. The experimental results show variation in heat transfer distributions for different geometries, however average levels are primarily dependent on jet Reynolds number. The computational simulations match the shape of the distributions well however with a consistent over-prediction of around 10% in heat transfer levels.
Feasibility Study of a Proton Irradiation Facility for Radiobiological Measurements at an 18 MeV Cyclotron
Authors: Baratto-Roldán Anna , Jiménez-Ramos María del Carmen , Battaglia Maria Cristina , García-López Javier , Gallardo María Isabel , Cortés-Giraldo Miguel A. , Espino José M.
Published: November 2018

A feasibility study of an experimental setup for the irradiation of biological samples at the cyclotron facility installed at the National Centre of Accelerators (Seville, Spain) is presented. This cyclotron, which counts on an external beam line for interdisciplinary research purposes, produces an 18 MeV proton beam, which is suitable for the irradiation of mono-layer cultures for the measurement of proton cell damages and Relative Biological Effectiveness (RBE) at energies below the beam nominal value. Measurements of this kind are of interest for proton therapy, since the variation of proton RBE at the distal edge of the Bragg curve may have implications in clinical proton therapy treatments. In the following, the characteristics of the beam line and the solutions implemented for the irradiation of biological samples are described. When dealing with the irradiation of cell cultures, low beam intensities and broad homogeneous irradiation fields are required, in order to assure that all the cells receive the same dose with a suitable dose rate. At the cyclotron, these constraints have been achieved by completely defocusing the beam, intercepting the beam path with tungsten scattering foils and varying the exit-window-to-sample distance. The properties of the proton beam thus obtained have been analysed and compared with Monte Carlo simulations. The results of this comparison, as well as the experimental measurement of the lateral dose profiles expected at the position of samples are presented. Meaningful dose rates of about 2–3 Gy/min have been obtained. Homogeneous lateral dose profiles, with maximum deviations of 5%, have been measured at a distance of approximately 50 cm in air from the exit window, placing a tungsten scattering foil of 200 μm in the beam path.
The Influence of Exposure Energy Density on Porosity and Microhardness of the SLM Additive Manufactured Elements
Authors: Kluczyński Janusz , Śnieżek Lucjan , Grzelak Krzysztof , Mierzyński Janusz
Published: November 2018

Selective laser melting (SLM) is an additive manufacturing technique. It allows elements with very complex geometry to be produced using metallic powders. A geometry of manufacturing elements is based only on 3D computer-aided design (CAD) data. The metal powder is melted selectively layer by layer using an ytterbium laser. This paper contains the results of porosity and microhardness analysis made on specimens manufactured during a specially prepared process. Final analysis helped to discover connections between changing hatching distance, exposure speed and porosity. There were no significant differences in microhardness and porosity measurement results in the planes perpendicular and parallel to the machine building platform surface.
Interpolative Reich–Rus–Ćirić Type Contractions on Partial Metric Spaces
Authors: Karapinar Erdal , Agarwal Ravi , Aydi Hassen
Published: November 2018

By giving a counter-example, we point out a gap in the paper by Karapinar (Adv. Theory Nonlinear Anal. Its Appl. 2018, 2, 85–87) where the given fixed point may be not unique and we present the corrected version. We also state the celebrated fixed point theorem of Reich–Rus–Ćirić in the framework of complete partial metric spaces, by taking the interpolation theory into account. Some examples are provided where the main result in papers by Reich (Can. Math. Bull. 1971, 14, 121–124; Boll. Unione Mat. Ital. 1972, 4, 26–42 and Boll. Unione Mat. Ital. 1971, 4, 1–11.) is not applicable.
Diffusion Bonding and Brazing of Advanced Materials
Authors: Simões Sónia
Published: November 2018

Advanced materials generally require the development of novel joining techniques, as this is crucial to integrate them into functional structures and to widen their application field. [...]
A QM/MM Study of Nitrite Binding Modes in a Three-Domain Heme-Cu Nitrite Reductase
Authors: Sen Kakali , Hough Michael , Strange Richard , Yong Chin , Keal Thomas
Published: November 2018

Copper-containing nitrite reductases (CuNiRs) play a key role in the global nitrogen cycle by reducing nitrite (NO2−) to nitric oxide, a reaction that involves one electron and two protons. In typical two-domain CuNiRs, the electron is acquired from an external electron-donating partner. The recently characterised Rastonia picketti (RpNiR) system is a three-domain CuNiR, where the cupredoxin domain is tethered to a heme c domain that can function as the electron donor. The nitrite reduction starts with the binding of NO2− to the T2Cu centre, but very little is known about how NO2− binds to native RpNiR. A recent crystallographic study of an RpNiR mutant suggests that NO2− may bind via nitrogen rather than through the bidentate oxygen mode typically observed in two-domain CuNiRs. In this work we have used combined quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical (QM/MM) methods to model the binding mode of NO2− with native RpNiR in order to determine whether the N-bound or O-bound orientation is preferred. Our results indicate that binding via nitrogen or oxygen is possible for the oxidised Cu(II) state of the T2Cu centre, but in the reduced Cu(I) state the N-binding mode is energetically preferred.
Natalenamides A–C, Cyclic Tripeptides from the Termite-Associated Actinomadura sp. RB99
Authors: Lee Seoung Rak , Lee Dahae , Yu Jae Sik , Benndorf René , Lee Sullim , Lee Dong-Soo , Huh Jungmoo , De Beer Z. Wilhelm , Kim Yong Ho , Beemelmanns Christine , Kang Ki Sung , Kim Ki Hyun
Published: November 2018

In recent years, investigations into the biochemistry of insect-associated bacteria have increased. When combined with analytical dereplication processes, these studies provide a powerful strategy to identify structurally and/or biologically novel compounds. Non-ribosomally synthesized cyclic peptides have a broad bioactivity spectrum with high medicinal potential. Here, we report the discovery of three new cyclic tripeptides: natalenamides A–C (compounds 1–3). These compounds were identified from the culture broth of the fungus-growing termite-associated Actinomadura sp. RB99 using a liquid chromatography (LC)/ultraviolet (UV)/mass spectrometry (MS)-based dereplication method. Chemical structures of the new compounds (1–3) were established by analysis of comprehensive spectroscopic methods, including one-dimensional (1H and 13C) and two-dimensional (1H-1H-COSY, HSQC, HMBC) nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), together with high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR-ESIMS) data. The absolute configurations of the new compounds were elucidated using Marfey’s analysis. Through several bioactivity tests for the tripeptides, we found that compound 3 exhibited significant inhibitory effects on 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX)-induced melanin production. The effect of compound 3 was similar to that of kojic acid, a compound extensively used as a cosmetic material with a skin-whitening effect.
Preparation and Characterization of Spherical Amorphous Solid Dispersion with Amphotericin B
Authors: Mehenni Lyes , Lahiani-Skiba Malika , Ladam Guy , Hallouard François , Skiba Mohamed
Published: November 2018

In the present study, new polymer microspheres of amphotericin B (AmB) were prepared by a spray drying technique using cyclodextrin polymers (Poly-CD) to improve the solubility and dissolution of AmB, to prevent in vivo toxic AmB aggregations. Formulations were characterized through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermal analysis, Raman spectroscopy, particle size, drug purity test and in vitro release studies. The analysis indicated that the chemical structure of AmB remained unchanged in the amorphous solid dispersion, but the structure was changed from crystalline to amorphous. AmB was completely release from such optimized formulations in dissolution media in 40 min. This work may contribute to a new generation of spherical amorphous solid dispersion using a cyclodextrin polymer, which has implications for the possibility of drug development for oral utilization or as powder aerosols for pulmonary administration.
The Influence of Shape Memory Alloy Volume Fraction on the Impact Behavior of Polymer Composites
Authors: Sun Min , Sun Xiaokun , Wang Zhenqing , Chang Mengzhou , Li Hao
Published: November 2018

The low-velocity impact behavior of Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) reinforced resin matrix polymers is investigated and the influence of the SMA volume fraction on the impact performance of polymer composites is considered for the first time, which are the highlights in this paper. Firstly, 12 kinds of polymer composite specimens with different SMA volume fractions are fabricated in terms of the SMA layup spacing, SMA diameter, and the interaction between the two. Secondly, a low-velocity impact test is carried out in order to study the impact performances of the above polymer composites. Finally, the damage morphology of the specimen after impact is observed by the visualization method and the low-velocity impact performance of the 12 kinds of polymer composites is analyzed on the basis of the force and energy history curve.
Modeling the Circular Economy Processes at the EU Level Using an Evaluation Algorithm Based on Shannon Entropy
Authors: Busu Cristian , Busu Mihail
Published: November 2018

In this paper we propose a methodology to study circular economy processes based on mathematical modelling. In open-ended systems, waste could be converted back to recycling, transforming the economy from linear to circular. The concept of entropy and the second law of thermodynamics give the argument for a scale reduction of material circulation. As humans extract more and more energy and matter for the economy, the degree of entropy is likely to increase. Based on the findings of economic studies on the implications of industrialization in the case of growing economies, this study aims at evaluating circular economy processes at the European Union (EU) level using a Shannon-Entropy-based algorithm. An entropy-based analysis was conducted for the 28 European Union countries during the time frame 2007–2016. The modelling process consists of constructing a composite indicator which is composed of a weighted sum of all indicators developed by an algorithm based on Shannon Entropy. The weights assigned to each indicator in our analysis measure the significance of each indicator involved in the development of the composite indicator. The results are similar to the international rakings, consolidating and confirming the accuracy and reliability of this approach.
Detection of Building and Infrastructure Instabilities by Automatic Spatiotemporal Analysis of Satellite SAR Interferometry Measurements
Authors: Zhu Mao , Wan Xiaoli , Fei Bigang , Qiao Zhuping , Ge Chunqing , Minati Federico , Vecchioli Francesco , Li Jiping , Costantini Mario
Published: November 2018

Satellite synthetic aperture radar (SAR) interferometry (InSAR) is a powerful technology to monitor slow ground surface movements. However, the extraction and interpretation of information from big sets of InSAR measurements is a complex and demanding task. In this paper, a new method is presented for automatically detecting potential instability risks affecting buildings and infrastructures, by searching for anomalies in the persistent scatterer (PS) deformations, either in the spatial or in the temporal dimensions. In the spatial dimension, in order to reduce the dataset size and improve data reliability, we utilize a hierarchical clustering method to obtain convergence points that are more trustworthy. Then, we detect deformations characterized by large values and spatial inhomogeneity. In the temporal dimension, we use a signal processing method to decompose the input into two main components: regular periodic deformations and piecewise linear deformations. After removing the periodic component, the velocity variation in each identified temporal partition is analyzed to detect anomalous velocity trends and accelerations. The method has been tested on different sites in China, based on InSAR measurements from COSMO-SkyMed data. The results, verified with in-field surveys, confirm the potential of the method for the automatic detection of deformation anomalies that could cause building or infrastructure stability problems.
Computational Assessment of Facial Expression Production in ASD Children
Authors: Leo Marco , Carcagnì Pierluigi , Distante Cosimo , Spagnolo Paolo , Mazzeo Pier Luigi , Rosato Anna Chiara , Petrocchi Serena , Pellegrino Chiara , Levante Annalisa , De Lumè Filomena , Lecciso Flavia
Published: November 2018

In this paper, a computational approach is proposed and put into practice to assess the capability of children having had diagnosed Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) to produce facial expressions. The proposed approach is based on computer vision components working on sequence of images acquired by an off-the-shelf camera in unconstrained conditions. Action unit intensities are estimated by analyzing local appearance and then both temporal and geometrical relationships, learned by Convolutional Neural Networks, are exploited to regularize gathered estimates. To cope with stereotyped movements and to highlight even subtle voluntary movements of facial muscles, a personalized and contextual statistical modeling of non-emotional face is formulated and used as a reference. Experimental results demonstrate how the proposed pipeline can improve the analysis of facial expressions produced by ASD children. A comparison of system’s outputs with the evaluations performed by psychologists, on the same group of ASD children, makes evident how the performed quantitative analysis of children’s abilities helps to go beyond the traditional qualitative ASD assessment/diagnosis protocols, whose outcomes are affected by human limitations in observing and understanding multi-cues behaviors such as facial expressions.
Training-Based Methods for Comparison of Object Detection Methods for Visual Object Tracking
Authors: Delforouzi Ahmad , Pamarthi Bhargav , Grzegorzek Marcin
Published: November 2018

Object tracking in challenging videos is a hot topic in machine vision. Recently, novel training-based detectors, especially using the powerful deep learning schemes, have been proposed to detect objects in still images. However, there is still a semantic gap between the object detectors and higher level applications like object tracking in videos. This paper presents a comparative study of outstanding learning-based object detectors such as ACF, Region-Based Convolutional Neural Network (RCNN), FastRCNN, FasterRCNN and You Only Look Once (YOLO) for object tracking. We use an online and offline training method for tracking. The online tracker trains the detectors with a generated synthetic set of images from the object of interest in the first frame. Then, the detectors detect the objects of interest in the next frames. The detector is updated online by using the detected objects from the last frames of the video. The offline tracker uses the detector for object detection in still images and then a tracker based on Kalman filter associates the objects among video frames. Our research is performed on a TLD dataset which contains challenging situations for tracking. Source codes and implementation details for the trackers are published to make both the reproduction of the results reported in this paper and the re-use and further development of the trackers for other researchers. The results demonstrate that ACF and YOLO trackers show more stability than the other trackers.
Physical and Biological Water Column Observations during Summer Sea/Land Breeze Winds in the Coastal Northern Tyrrhenian Sea
Authors: Martellucci Riccardo , Pierattini Alberto , De Mendoza Francesco Paladini , Melchiorri Cristiano , Piermattei Viviana , Marcelli Marco
Published: November 2018

Coupling between sea/land breeze and coastal circulation and the influence of wind-driven dynamics are substantially relevant for understanding coastal Mediterranean ecosystems. These coastal areas are particularly dynamic and are characterized by high-variable processes which drive biological phenomena at different time-scales. For the Tyrrhenian Sea, the available information on coastal dynamics is confined to large-scale general circulation with a focus exclusively on mesoscale pelagic dynamical processes. Hydrodynamic studies of Tyrrhenian coastal areas are very rare and focus on surface water circulation. For time scales that are associated with coastal water circulation, there is also limited knowledge on water column dynamics that are forced by local atmospheric circulations. This paper presents physical and biological data to document the effect of sea/land breeze circulation on ocean current dynamics and water column structures in a Northern Tyrrhenian coastal site. This coastal area is characterized by the presence of a relevant energy production site as well as one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean Sea for cruise traffic. Consequently, this coastal site is a transit point for many tourists and it is characterized by an increase of energy demand, especially during the summer season. The in-situ data show that coastal currents are predominantly controlled by the tide and local wind and respond rapidly to changes in wind direction. Water column thermal structure analyses reveal significant changes with the morning’s rotation of breeze: lifting of isotherms (cooling) was typically observed in deep layers during early mornings, accompanied by fluctuations in isotherms. The performed investigations provide valuable inputs for coastal ecosystem modeling and for a better understanding of the coastal processes that are significant for environmental and navigational interests.
La gaudefroyite, une nouvelle espèce minérale
Authors: Jouravsky Georges , Permingeat François
Published: November 2018

Hexagonal P 6₃/m ou P 6₃. a = 10,6 ± 0,1, c = 5,90 ± 0,05 Å. Z = 2 , c/a = 0,5562 ± 0,0005 (goniomètre). Principales raies du diagramme de poudre (51 raies observées) qui a été indicé : 9,1 F, 4,54 F, 2,95 FF, 2,69 F, 2,62 FF, 2,46 FF, 1,80 F. Cristaux noirs en prismes hexagonaux aciculaires à terminaisons pyramidales (5 faces observées) atteignant 5 cm de longueur. Un clivage prismatique m (11.0). Aucune macle observée. Dureté Mohs 6, Vickers 840. dmes = 3,35 à 3,50. dₓ = 3,44. Uniaxe positif n₀ = 1,81 ± 0,01, nₑ = 2,02 ± 0,01. Pléochroïque de rouge orangé (sur ng) à roux clair. En sections polies : forte anisotropie mais faibles colorations gris˗blanc entre niçois croisés : pouvoirs réflecteurs Rg = 12,5 ± 0,03, R₀ = 9,7 ± 0,2 (pour 5 200 Å). L'analyse chimique sur un échantillon soigneusement sélectionné, contrôlée par de nombreux essais chimiques, spectrographiques et thermiques, conduit à la formule Ca4Mn₃₋ₓ[(BO₃)₃/(CO₃)/(O, OH)₃] avec x ~ 0,17. Mais x paraît variable d'un échantillon à l'autre, traduisant une oxydation partielle du manganèse. Se décompose très rapidement vers 1 000°. Trouvée en quantité relativement importante dans un « accident » du filon 2 de Tachgagalt (Anti˗Atlas, Maroc), associée à la marokite et divers autres minéraux de manganèse. Elle est probablement d'origine volcanique, liée au volcanisme acide du Précambrien terminal de l'Anti˗Atlas. C'est le premier borocarbonate signalé dans la nature. Les échantillons-types sont conservés à Rabat et à Paris. Le nom de gaudefroyite est proposé en l'honneur de C. Gaudefroy.
The effect of fluorine on the structure of hydrous aluminosilicate melts (extended abstract)
Authors: Manning David A.C.
Published: November 2018

Liquidus phase relations have been determined for a portion of the water saturated system SiO2-NaAlSi3O8-KAlSi3O8-F2 at 1 kb. The stability field of quartz expands and liquidus temperatures decrease when fluorine is added to the initially F2 free system. Fluorine is probably present in the melt as the free fluoride ion and as the aluminofluoride complex (AlFg63-).
La rémunération au résultat serait-elle aléatoire ? Réponses appliquées au contrat de révélation de succession et à la convention d’honoraires au résultat passée entre l’avocat et son client
Authors: Huchet Marc-Olivier
Published: November 2018

Classiquement, le contrat est aléatoire lorsque les chances de gain et de perte existent corrélativement pour les deux parties au contrat. Cette réalité ne résulte cependant pas de la lettre des articles 1104 et 1964 du Code civil mais plutôt du caractère synallagmatique du contrat qui implique que l’exécution de l’obligation de d ’une partie soit la cause de l’obligation de l’autre partie.

Il n ’est donc pas possible qu un contrat puisse être aléatoire pour une partie sans l’être pour l’autre. Mis en oeuvre, ce principe produit des résultats surprenants.

Lorsque jurisprudence et doctrine conviennent que le contrat de révélation de succession n ’est pas aléatoire au motif que l’aléa n ’existe que pour le professionnel, elles commettent une confusion en n ’identifiant pas correctement l ’objet de l ’incertitude. En réalité, l 'aléa existe aussi pour l’héritier, comme il existe pour tout client rémunérant un professionnel en fonction du résultat obtenu. Plus ce résultat est favorable, plus la rémunération de la prestation qui est à son origine sera élevée, constituant la perte subie par le client.

Le contrat rémunérant le professionnel en fonction du résultat étant aléatoire, rien ne justifie que le juge persiste à contrôler son équilibre.
Les clauses pénales d'exhérédation à l'épreuve du droit fondamental d'agir en justice
Authors: Tardif Anthony
Published: November 2018

Soucieux d’imposer le respect de ses volontés par-delà son propre décès, un donateur ou un testateur peut parfaitement prévoir que sera exhérédé l ’héritier qui contestera en justice la validité de la donation ou du testament. Qualifiées de «pénales» par la doctrine et la jurisprudence, ces clauses ont longtemps été soumises à un régime particulièrement bienveillant. Si ces clauses pénales étaient toujours valables lorsqu’elles confortaient l’exécution d’une disposition contraire à des intérêts privés, celles-ci étaient frappées de nullité si elles faisaient obstacle à l’application d’une règle d’ordre public. Afin d’assurer une efficacité maximale à cette règle, la jurisprudence décidait que l’héritier qui échouait dans sa contestation ne pouvait échapper à sa peine en soutenant avoir voulu faire respecter une disposition d’ordre public. Les auteurs n’avaient pas manqué de souligner les inconvénients d’un tel système (contrariété à l’ordre public successoral). Pour répondre à ces critiques, un arrêt du 16 décembre 2015 de la première chambre civile est venu bouleverser l 'état du droit positif sur ce sujet en décidant de soumettre la validité des clauses pénales d’exhérédation au respect du droit fondamental d’agir en justice. A l’examen, cette solution semble comporter des inconvénients tant et si bien que le remède risque de s ’avérer pire que le mal. C ’est la raison pour laquelle certaines solutions alternatives doivent être envisagées.
La prothèse défectueuse et l'imbrication vertueuse des responsabilités
Authors: Siffert Antoine
Published: November 2018

Le 11 avril 2016, le Tribunal des conflits privilégie la compétence de la juridiction administrative pour connaître de l’action en garantie d’un établissement public de santé à l’encontre du producteur d’une prothèse défectueuse. Les suites de l ’affaire Falempin permettent de revenir sur l ’articulation contentieuse de la responsabilité sans faute du service public hospitalier, propre au droit administratif français, et de celle du producteur, encadrée par le droit de l 'Union européenne.
Libre propos sur la mort numérique
Authors: Coffin Armelle
Published: November 2018

La Loi pour une république numérique du 7 octobre 2016 avait un grand projet : créer un droit à la mort numérique. La transposition de la notion de directive anticipée afin de permettre d’organiser sa mort numérique en droit numérique est un choix intéressant. Ces nouvelles dispositions ont pourtant une portée limitée, quant au contenu de la loi elle-même, mais aussi à cause du Règlement Européen général du 25 avril 2016 sur la création des données qui porte abrogation de ces dispositions.
Peut-on contractualiser la barbarie ?
Authors: Bremaeker Nathalie de
Published: November 2018

Si le sadomasochisme est aujourd’hui une pratique connue, a priori insusceptible de répression pénale, l ’auteur entend démontrer que la personne humaine, en tant que sujet volontaire et autonome ne jouit pas pour autant d’une liberté absolue dès lors qu’il s’agit de contractualiser des agissements, qui, même s ’ils sont consentis, sont porteurs d’un risque tangible d’atteinte à l ’intégrité physique ou morale d’autrui.
Perceived Personal Development Benefits from Backpacking: A Cross-Cultural Comparison
Authors: Huang Songshan (Sam) , Chen Ganghua
Published: November 2018

This study aims to examine the cross-cultural differences of perceived backpacker personal development between Chinese and Western backpackers. Backpacker personal development has been found to be an effective form of personal development in addition to the formal education system.
Although the literature shows backpacking is a culturally driven travel phenomenon, little research has been done to examine the cross-cultural differences in association to backpacking. Comparing 230 Chinese backpackers with 246 Western backpackers traveling in China, the study found that
Western backpackers rated four out of the five backpacker personal development dimensions consistently higher than their Chinese counterparts. These dimensions are capability, skill, worldview, and self-consciousness. However, the two cultural groups did not differ in emotion
as a backpacker personal development dimension. The differences can be explained by stages of industry development of backpacking in and outside China, Chinese social and economic development, in addition to the cultural determination. The study demonstrated that Chinese backpackers are a
culturally different traveler market, comparing to Western backpackers. The special features and culturally informed characteristics of Chinese backpacking will not only enrich the worldwide backpacking travel phenomena, but also enhance the general knowledge of tourism from a cross-cultural
perspective. This study contributes to the literature by advancing the understanding of tourist learning and personal development through backpacking experiences. Based on the study findings it is recommended that governments and industry organizations should designate supportive policies
and favorable industry protocols to encourage young generations to seek personal development through backpacking.
Unnatural α-amino ethyl esters from diethyl malonate or ethyl β-bromo-α-hydroxyiminocarboxylate
Authors: Coutant Eloi P , Hervin Vincent , Gagnot Glwadys , Ford Candice , Baatallah Racha , Janin Yves L
Published: November 2018

We have explored here the scope of the age-old diethyl malonate-based accesses to α-amino esters involving Knoevenagel condensations of diethyl malonate on aldehydes, reductions of the resulting alkylidenemalonates, the preparation of the corresponding α-hydroxyimino esters and their final reduction. This synthetic pathway turned out to be general although some unexpected limitations were encountered. The synthetic modifications of some of the intermediates – using Suzuki–Miyaura coupling or cycloadditions – before undertaking the oximation step – provided accesses to further α-amino esters. Moreover, other pathways to α-hydroxyimino esters were explored including an attempt to improve the cycloadditions between ethyl β-bromo-α-hydroxyiminocarboxylate and various alkylfuranes.
The Fundamental Plane of Open Clusters
Authors: Pang Xiaoying , Shen Shiyin , Shao Zhengyi
Published: November 2018

We utilize the data from the Apache Point Observatory Galactic Evolution Experiment-2 in the fourteenth data release of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey to calculate the line-of-sight velocity dispersion σ
1D of a sample of old open clusters (aged older than 100 Myr) selected from the Milky Way open cluster catalog of Kharchenko et al. Together with their K

s
band luminosity

, and the half-light radius r

h
of the most probable members, we find that these three parameters show significant pairwise correlations among each other. Moreover, a fundamental plane-like relation among these parameters is found for the oldest open clusters (aged older than 1 Gyr),

with rms ∼ 0.31 mag in the K

s
band absolute magnitude. The existence of this relation, which deviates significantly from the virial theorem prediction, implies that the dynamical structures of the old open clusters are quite similar, when survived from complex dynamical evolution to age older than 1 Gyr.
Signatures of Intra-binary Shock Emission in the Black Widow Pulsar Binary PSR J2241−5236
Authors: An Hongjun , Romani Roger W. , Kerr Matthew
Published: November 2018

We report on high-energy properties of the black widow pulsar PSR J2241−5236 in the X-ray and the Fermi-Large Area Telescope (LAT; GeV gamma-ray) bands. In the LAT band, the phase-averaged gamma-ray light curve shows orbital modulation below ∼1 GeV with a chance probability (p) monotonically decreasing with time to p ∼ 10−5. The peak of the light curve is near the superior conjunction of the pulsar (binary phase ϕ
B ≈ 0.25). We attribute the modulation to the intra-binary shock (IBS) emission and search for IBS signatures in the archival X-ray data. We find that the X-ray spectral fit requires a nonthermal component, which implies a possible IBS origin of the X-rays. We discuss our observations in the context of IBS scenarios.
Théorie de l’exploitation ou théorie de la destruction ? Marx, Polanyi, Fraser
Authors: Delruelle Édouard
Published: November 2018

L’article confronte la théorie de l’exploitation de Marx (qui envisage le capitalisme sous le prisme de la contradiction entre le capital et le travail) et la théorie de la destruction de Polanyi (qui l’envisage, lui, sous le prisme de la contradiction entre le marché autorégulé et la société toute entière). Plus profondément, il s’agit de savoir quelle place il faut accorder, aujourd’hui, aux luttes autour du soin (care), de la préservation ou de la réparation des « relations conditionnantes » aux autruis humains et non humains qui composent notre milieu de vie. L’hypothèse développée ici, à partir des travaux de Nancy Fraser, est de penser les catégories de soin et de souci comme des conditions de l’émancipation. Autrement dit, il ne suffit pas de faire droit aux luttes féministes, « culturelles » ou écologistes à côté des luttes sociales, mais de repérer, derrière toute lutte sociale-économique, ces luttes dont le but est la préservation de sphères non-économiques d’existence.
Allelopathic bioactivity of fresh and infused aqueous extracts of Brazilian cherry (Eugenia uniflora L.) on lettuce and maize
Authors: Boiago Nayara Parisoto , Fortes Andréa Maria Teixeira , Pilatti Daiane Maria , Silva Paulo Sérgio Siberti da
Published: November 2018

This study aimed to analyse the allelopathic bioactivity of fresh and infused aqueous extracts of Brazilian cherry leaves on the germination of lettuce and the initial development of maize. Brazilian cherry leaves were used to prepare a fresh aqueous extract (200 g L-1) and an infused extract (100 g L-1), which were diluted to concentrations of 0.4, 0.8, 1.2, 1.6 or 2.0% w/v. The variables evaluated in lettuce were the germination rate (GR), germination time index (GTI), germination speed index (GSI) and root length (RL). To determine the effect on the initial development of maize, we measured the shoot (SL) and root (RL) length. The experimental design included a factorial 2 × 5 design (two extracts and five concentrations), in addition to a control treatment (no extract). In general, the allelopathic bioactivity differed between the fresh and infused extracts. The fresh extract was more phytotoxic for the GR and RL of lettuce. Some beneficial results were observed for the infused extract, including an increase in the RL of lettuce and SL of maize. These effects were dependent on the extract concentration. Thus, there is evidence that Brazilian cherry extracts have allelopathic bioactivity.
Predators associated with the pine bark adelgid (Hemiptera: Adelgidae), a native insect in Appalachian forests, United States of America, in its southern range
Authors: Wantuch Holly A. , Havill Nathan P. , Hoebeke E. Richard , Kuhar Thomas P. , Salom Scott M.
Published: November 2018

The pine bark adelgid,Pineus strobi(Hartig) (Hemiptera: Adelgidae), is an herbivore native to eastern North America that specialises on eastern white pine,Pinus strobusLinnaeus (Pinaceae). Little is known aboutP. strobi, especially in its southern range in the Appalachian Mountains, United States of America, and the composition of its predator complex has not yet been documented in this region. The current study identifies arthropod predators associated withP. strobiin Appalachian forests of Virginia based on a two-year survey. Predators were identified using morphology and DNA barcoding. Predator species include:Laricobius rubidusLeConte (Coleoptera: Derodontidae),Leucopis piniperdaMalloch (Diptera: Chamaemyiidae), andLeucopis argenticollisZetterstedt (Diptera: Chamaemyiidae), that are known adelgid specialists. Also found were predators from the families Cecidomyiidae (Diptera), Coccinellidae (Coleoptera), Chrysopidae (Neuroptera), Hemerobiidae (Neuroptera), and Syrphidae (Diptera). The Cecidomyiidae were especially diverse, with 14 different species inferred from their DNA barcodes. Knowledge of this predator complex is particularly valuable for anticipation and detection of potential interactions between native predator species and those that are being considered for the introduction for biological control of invasive adelgid pests within the southern Appalachian ecosystem.
Rapid and Efficient Production of Human Functional Mast Cells through a Three-Dimensional Culture of Adipose Tissue–Derived Stromal Vascular Cells
Authors: Paupert Jenny , Espinosa Eric , Cenac Nicolas , Robert Virginie , Laharrague Patrick , Evrard Solène M. , Casteilla Louis , Lorsignol Anne , Cousin Béatrice
Published: November 2018

Mast cells (MC) are innate immune cells involved in many physiological and pathological processes. However, studies of MC function and biology are hampered by the difficulties to obtain human primary MC. To solve this problem, we established a new method to produce easily and rapidly high numbers of MC for in vitro studies using human adipose tissue, which is an abundant and easy access tissue. Stromal vascular fraction of adipose tissue, obtained from human abdominal dermolipectomy, was cultured as spheroids in serum free medium supplemented in stem cell factor. Using this method, we generated, within 3 wk, a highly pure population of connective tissue–type MC expressing MC typical peptidases (tryptase, chymase, and carboxypeptidase-A3) with a yield increasing over time. Stem cell factor was required for this culture, but unlike MC derived from CD34+ cells, this culture did not depend on IL-3 and -6. MC obtained with this method degranulated following FcεRI cross-linking or stimulation by C5a, compound 48/80, and substance P. Interestingly, activation by anti-IgE of both white adipose tissue–MC and MC obtained from peripheral blood–derived CD34+ pluripotent progenitor cells induced the production of PGs as well as proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, Il-6, and GM-CSF). In conclusion, we developed a new time saving and reproducible method to produce highly pure and functional human MC in 3 wk from human adipose tissue.
Surveillance of Myelodysplastic Syndrome via Migration Analyses of Blood Neutrophils: A Potential Prognostic Tool
Authors: Schuster Marc , Moeller Mischa , Bornemann Lea , Bessen Clara , Sobczak Charlyn , Schmitz Saskia , Witjes Laura , Kruithoff Katja , Kohn Christina , Just Olga , Kündgen Andrea , Pundt Noreen , Pelzer Benedikt , Ampe Christophe , Van Troys Marleen , Nusch Arnd , Haas Rainer , Germing Ulrich , Martens Lennart , Jöckel Karl-Heinz , Gunzer Matthias
Published: November 2018

Autonomous migration is a central characteristic of immune cells, and changes in this function have been correlated to the progression and severity of diseases. Hence, the identification of pathologically altered leukocyte migration patterns might be a promising approach for disease surveillance and prognostic scoring. However, because of the lack of standardized and robust assays, migration patterns have not been clinically exploited so far. In this study, we introduce an easy-to-use and cross-laboratory, standardized two-dimensional migration assay for neutrophil granulocytes from peripheral blood. By combining time-lapse video microscopy and automated cell tracking, we calculated the average migration of neutrophils from 111 individual participants of the German Heinz Nixdorf Recall MultiGeneration study under steady-state, formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine–, CXCL1-, and CXCL8-stimulated conditions. Comparable values were obtained in an independent laboratory from a cohort in Belgium, demonstrating the robustness and transferability of the assay. In a double-blinded retrospective clinical analysis, we found that neutrophil migration strongly correlated with the Revised International Prognostic Scoring System scoring and risk category of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients. In fact, patients suffering from high-risk subtypes MDS with excess blasts I or II displayed highly significantly reduced neutrophil migration. Hence, the determination of neutrophil migration patterns might represent a useful tool in the surveillance of MDS. Taken together, we suggest that standardized migration assays of neutrophils and other leukocyte subtypes might be broadly applicable as prognostic and surveillance tools for MDS and potentially for other diseases.
Secrets of Plants: Endophytes
Authors: Nazir Asiya , Rahman Habeeb Abdul
Published: November 2018

Endophytic fungi are an important component that colonizes in healthy tissues of living plants and can be readily isolated from any microbial or plant growth medium. They act as reservoirs of novel bioactive secondary metabolites, such as alkaloids, phenolic acids, quinones, steroids, saponins, tannins, and terpenoids that serve as a potential candidate for antimicrobial, anti-insect, anticancer and many more properties. Their huge diversity and particular habituation, they can provide a good area for research in the field of making new medicines and novel drug-like molecules. Because of the impact of endophytes on host plant by enhancing their growth or increasing their fitness, also making them tolerant to abiotic and biotic stresses and holding the secondary metabolites, endophytes are gaining attention as a subject for research. This review aims to comprehend the contribution and uses of endophytes and relationships between endophytic fungi and their host medicinal plants.