bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-Temporal Time-Dependent Terrain Visualization through Localized Spatial Correspondence Parameterization
Authors: Dalyot Sagi , Doytsher Yerach
Published: May 2013

Visualizing quantitative time-dependent changes in the topography requires relying on a series of discrete given multi-temporal topographic datasets that were acquired on a given time-line. The reality of physical phenomenon occurring during the acquisition times is complex when trying to mutually model the datasets; thus, different levels of spatial inter-relations and geometric inconsistencies among the datasets exist. Any straight forward simulation will result in a truncated, ill-correct and un-smooth visualization. A desired quantitative and qualitative modelling is presumed to describe morphologic changes that occurred, so it can be utilized to carry out more precise and true-to-nature visualization tasks, while trying to best describe the reality transition as it occurred. This research paper suggests adopting a fully automatic hierarchical modelling mechanism, hence implementing several levels of spatial correspondence between the topographic datasets. This quantification is then utilized for the datasets morphing and blending tasks required for intermediate scene visualization. The establishment of a digital model that stores the local spatial transformation parameterization correspondences between the topographic datasets is realized. Along with designated interpolation concepts, this complete process ensures that the visualized transition from one topographic dataset to the other via the quantified correspondences is smooth and continuous, while maintaining morphological and topological relations.
Epidermal Development in Mammals: Key Regulators, Signals from Beneath, and Stem Cells
Authors: Liu Shuang , Zhang Huishan , Duan Enkui
Published: May 2013

Epidermis is one of the best-studied tissues in mammals that contain types of stem cells. Outstanding works in recent years have shed great light on behaviors of different epidermal stem cell populations in the homeostasis and regeneration of the epidermis as well as hair follicles. Also, the molecular mechanisms governing these stem cells are being elucidated, from genetic to epigenetic levels. Compared with the explicit knowledge about adult skin, embryonic development of the epidermis, especially the early period, still needs exploration. Furthermore, stem cells in the embryonic epidermis are largely unstudied or ambiguously depicted. In this review, we will summarize and discuss the process of embryonic epidermal development, with focuses on some key molecular regulators and the role of the sub-epidermal mesenchyme. We will also try to trace adult epidermal stem cell populations back to embryonic development. In addition, we will comment on in vitro derivation of epidermal lineages from ES cells and iPS cells.
Turn-Directed α-β Conformational Transition of α-syn12 Peptide at Different pH Revealed by Unbiased Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Liu Lei , Cao Zanxia
Published: May 2013

The transition from α-helical to β-hairpin conformations of α-syn12 peptide is characterized here using long timescale, unbiased molecular dynamics (MD) simulations in explicit solvent models at physiological and acidic pH values. Four independent normal MD trajectories, each 2500 ns, are performed at 300 K using the GROMOS 43A1 force field and SPC water model. The most clustered structures at both pH values are β-hairpin but with different turns and hydrogen bonds. Turn9-6 and four hydrogen bonds (HB9-6, HB6-9, HB11-4 and HB4-11) are formed at physiological pH; turn8-5 and five hydrogen bonds (HB8-5, HB5-8, HB10-3, HB3-10 and HB12-1) are formed at acidic pH. A common folding mechanism is observed: the formation of the turn is always before the formation of the hydrogen bonds, which means the turn is always found to be the major determinant in initiating the transition process. Furthermore, two transition paths are observed at physiological pH. One of the transition paths tends to form the most-clustered turn and improper hydrogen bonds at the beginning, and then form the most-clustered hydrogen bonds. Another transition path tends to form the most-clustered turn, and turn5-2 firstly, followed by the formation of part hydrogen bonds, then turn5-2 is extended and more hydrogen bonds are formed. The transition path at acidic pH is as the same as the first path described at physiological pH.
Sod1 Loss Induces Intrinsic Superoxide Accumulation Leading to p53-Mediated Growth Arrest and Apoptosis
Authors: Watanabe Kenji , Shibuya Shuichi , Koyama Hirofumi , Ozawa Yusuke , Toda Toshihiko , Yokote Koutaro , Shimizu Takahiko
Published: May 2013

Oxidative damages induced by a redox imbalance cause age-related changes in cells and tissues. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes play a major role in the antioxidant system and they also catalyze superoxide radicals (O2·−). Since the loss of cytoplasmic SOD (SOD1) resulted in aging-like phenotypes in several types of mouse tissue, SOD1 is essential for the maintenance of tissue homeostasis. To clarify the cellular function of SOD1, we investigated the cellular phenotypes of Sod1-deficient fibroblasts. We demonstrated that Sod1 deficiency impaired proliferation and induced apoptosis associated with O2·− accumulation in the cytoplasm and mitochondria in fibroblasts. Sod1 loss also decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential and led to DNA damage-mediated p53 activation. Antioxidant treatments effectively improved the cellular phenotypes through suppression of both intracellular O2·− accumulation and p53 activation in Sod1-deficient fibroblasts. In vivo experiments revealed that transdermal treatment with a vitamin C derivative significantly reversed the skin thinning commonly associated with the upregulated p53 action in the skin. Our findings revealed that intrinsic O2·− accumulation promoted p53-mediated growth arrest and apoptosis as well as mitochondrial disfunction in the fibroblasts.
Increased Susceptibility of Radiation-Induced Intestinal Apoptosis in SMP30 KO Mice
Authors: Goo Moon-Jung , Park Jin-Kyu , Hong Il-Hwa , Kim Ah-Young , Lee Eun-Mi , Lee Eun-Joo , Hwang Meeyul , Jeong Kyu-Shik
Published: May 2013

Recently, senescence marker protein-30 (SMP30) knockout (KO) mice have been reported to be susceptible to apoptosis, however, the role of SMP30 has not been characterized in the small intestine. The aim of the present study is to investigate the role of SMP30 in the process of spontaneous and γ-radiation-induced apoptosis in mouse small intestine. Eight-week-old male wild-type (WT) mice and SMP30 KO mice were examined after exposure to 0, 1, 3, 5, and 9 Gy of γ-radiation. Apoptosis in the crypts of the small intestine increased in the 0 to 5 Gy radiated SMP30 KO and WT mice. Radiation-induced apoptosis and the BAX/Bcl-2 ratio in the SMP30 KO mice were significantly increased in comparison to each identically treated group of WT mice (p < 0.05). The levels of spontaneous apoptosis in both WT and KO mice were similar (p > 0.05), indicating that increased apoptosis of crypt cells of SMP30 KO by irradiation can be associated with SMP30 depletion. These results suggested that SMP30 might be involved in overriding the apoptotic homeostatic mechanism in response to DNA damage.
Low-Power and Optimized VLSI Implementation of Compact Recursive Discrete Fourier Transform (RDFT) Processor for the Computations of DFT and Inverse Modified Cosine Transform (IMDCT) in a Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) and DRM+ Receiver
Authors: Lai Shin-Chi , Lee Yueh-Shu , Lei Sheau-Fang
Published: May 2013

This paper presents a compact structure of recursive discrete Fourier transform (RDFT) with prime factor (PF) and common factor (CF) algorithms to calculate variable-length DFT coefficients. Low-power optimizations in VLSI implementation are applied to the proposed RDFT design. In the algorithm, for 256-point DFT computation, the results show that the proposed method greatly reduces the number of multiplications/additions/computational cycles by 97.40/94.31/46.50% compared to a recent approach. In chip realization, the core size and chip size are, respectively, 0.84 × 0.84 and 1.38 × 1.38 mm2. The power consumption for the 288- and 256-point DFT computations are, respectively, 10.2 (or 0.1051) and 11.5 (or 0.1176) mW at 25 (or 0.273) MHz simulated by NanoSim. It would be more efficient and more suitable than previous works for DRM and DRM+ applications.
Synergistic Sensory Platform: Robotic Nurse
Authors: Peshko Igor , Pawluczyk Romuald , Wick Dale
Published: May 2013

This paper presents the concept, structural design and implementation of components of a multifunctional sensory network, consisting of a Mobile Robotic Platform (MRP) and stationary multifunctional sensors, which are wirelessly communicating with the MRP. Each section provides the review of the principles of operation and the network components’ practical implementation. The analysis is focused on the structure of the robotic platform, sensory network and electronics and on the methods of the environment monitoring and data processing algorithms that provide maximal reliability, flexibility and stable operability of the system. The main aim of this project is the development of the Robotic Nurse (RN)—a 24/7 robotic helper for the hospital nurse personnel. To support long-lasting autonomic operation of the platform, all mechanical, electronic and photonic components were designed to provide minimal weight, size and power consumption, while still providing high operational efficiency, accuracy of measurements and adequateness of the sensor response. The stationary sensors serve as the remote “eyes, ears and noses” of the main MRP. After data acquisition, processing and analysing, the robot activates the mobile platform or specific sensors and cameras. The cross-use of data received from sensors of different types provides high reliability of the system. The key RN capabilities are simultaneous monitoring of physical conditions of a large number of patients and alarming in case of an emergency. The robotic platform Nav-2 exploits innovative principles of any-direction motion with omni-wheels, navigation and environment analysis. It includes an innovative mini-laser, the absorption spectrum analyser and a portable, extremely high signal-to-noise ratio spectrometer with two-dimensional detector array.
Reconfigurable Threshold Logic Gates using Memristive Devices
Authors: Rothenbuhler Adrian , Tran Thanh , Smith Elisa , Saxena Vishal , Campbell Kristy
Published: May 2013

We present our design exploration of reconfigurable Threshold Logic Gates (TLG) implemented using silver–chalcogenide memristive devices combined with CMOS circuits. Results from simulations and physical circuits are shown. A variety of linearly separable logic functions including AND, OR, NAND, NOR have been realized in discrete hardware using a single-layer TLG. The functionality can be changed between these operations by reprogramming the resistance of the memristive devices.
Extract from the Zooxanthellate Jellyfish Cotylorhiza tuberculata Modulates Gap Junction Intercellular Communication in Human Cell Cultures
Authors: Leone Antonella , Lecci Raffaella , Durante Miriana , Piraino Stefano
Published: May 2013

On a global scale, jellyfish populations in coastal marine ecosystems exhibit increasing trends of abundance. High-density outbreaks may directly or indirectly affect human economical and recreational activities, as well as public health. As the interest in biology of marine jellyfish grows, a number of jellyfish metabolites with healthy potential, such as anticancer or antioxidant activities, is increasingly reported. In this study, the Mediterranean “fried egg jellyfish” Cotylorhiza tuberculata (Macri, 1778) has been targeted in the search forputative valuable bioactive compounds. A medusa extract was obtained, fractionated, characterized by HPLC, GC-MS and SDS-PAGE and assayed for its biological activity on breast cancer cells (MCF-7) and human epidermal keratinocytes (HEKa). The composition of the jellyfish extract included photosynthetic pigments, valuable ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids, and polypeptides derived either from jellyfish tissues and their algal symbionts. Extract fractions showed antioxidant activity and the ability to affect cell viability and intercellular communication mediated by gap junctions (GJIC) differentially in MCF-7and HEKa cells. A significantly higher cytotoxicity and GJIC enhancement in MCF-7 compared to HEKa cells was recorded. A putative action mechanism for the anticancer bioactivity through the modulation of GJIC has been hypothesized and its nutraceutical and pharmaceutical potential was discussed.
Identification of Dynamic Changes in Proteins Associated with the Cellular Cytoskeleton after Exposure to Okadaic Acid
Authors: Opsahl Jill , Ljostveit Sonja , Solstad Therese , Risa Kristin , Roepstorff Peter , Fladmark Kari
Published: May 2013

Exposure of cells to the diarrhetic shellfish poison, okadaic acid, leads to a dramatic reorganization of cytoskeletal architecture and loss of cell-cell contact. When cells are exposed to high concentrations of okadaic acid (100–500 nM), the morphological rearrangement is followed by apoptotic cell death. Okadaic acid inhibits the broad acting Ser/Thr protein phosphatases 1 and 2A, which results in hyperphosphorylation of a large number of proteins. Some of these hyperphosphorylated proteins are most likely key players in the reorganization of the cell morphology induced by okadaic acid. We wanted to identify these phosphoproteins and searched for them in the cellular lipid rafts, which have been found to contain proteins that regulate cytoskeletal dynamics and cell adhesion. By using stable isotope labeling by amino acids in cell culture cells treated with okadaic acid (400 nM) could be combined with control cells before the isolation of lipid rafts. Protein phosphorylation events and translocations induced by okadaic acid were identified by mass spectrometry. Okadaic acid was shown to regulate the phosphorylation status and location of proteins associated with the actin cytoskeleton, microtubules and cell adhesion structures. A large number of these okadaic acid-regulated proteins have previously also been shown to be similarly regulated prior to cell proliferation and migration. Our results suggest that okadaic acid activates general cell signaling pathways that induce breakdown of the cortical actin cytoskeleton and cell detachment.
The Promoting Effect of Ishige sinicola on Hair Growth
Authors: Kang Jung-Il , Kim Eun-JI , Kim Min-Kyoung , Jeon You-Jin , Kang Sung-Myung , Koh Young-Sang , Yoo Eun-Sook , Kang Hee-Kyoung
Published: May 2013

This study was conducted to evaluate the promoting effect of Ishige sinicola, an alga native to Jeju Island, Korea, on hair growth. When vibrissa follicles were cultured in the presence of I. sinicola extract for 21 days, I. sinicola extract increased hair-fiber length. After topical application of I. sinicola extract onto the back of C57BL/6 mice, anagen progression of the hair shaft was induced. The I. sinicola extract significantly inhibited the activity of 5α-reductase. Treatment of immortalized vibrissa dermal papilla cells (DPCs) with I. sinicola extract resulted in increase of cell proliferation, which was accompanied by the increase of phospho-GSK3β level, β-catenin, Cyclin E and CDK2, whereas p27kip1 was down-regulated. In particular, octaphlorethol A, an isolated component from the I. sinicola extract, inhibited the activity of 5α-reductase and increased the proliferation of DPCs. These results suggest that I. sinicola extract and octaphlorethol A, a principal of I. sinicola, have the potential to treat alopecia via the proliferation of DPCs followed by the activation of β-catenin pathway, and the 5α-reductase inhibition.
The Ameliorative Effect of Sophoricoside on Mast Cell-Mediated Allergic Inflammation in Vivo and in Vitro
Authors: Kim Su-Jin , Lee Gil-Yong , Jung Ji-Wook , Oh Sa-Rang , Ahn Eun-Mi , Kim Sung-Hoon , Hong Seung-Heon , Um Jae-Young
Published: May 2013

Sophoricoside exhibits numerous pharmacological effects, including anti- inflammatory and anti-cancer actions, yet the exact mechanism that accounts for the anti-allergic effects of sophoricoside is not completely understood. The aim of the present study was to elucidate whether and how sophoricoside modulates the mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation in vitro and in vivo. We investigated the pharmacological effects of sophoricoside on both compound 48/80 or histamine-induced scratching behaviors and 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-induced atopic dermatitis in mice. Additionally, to find a possible explanation for the anti-inflammatory effects of sophoricoside, we evaluated the effects of sophoricoside on the production of histamine and inflammatory cytokines and activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and caspase-1 in phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate plus calcium ionophore A23187 (PMACI)-stimulated human mast cells (HMC-1). The finding of this study demonstrated that sophoricoside reduced compound 48/80 or histamine-induced scratching behaviors and DNCB-induced atopic dermatitis in mice. Additionally, sophoricoside inhibited the production of inflammatory cytokines as well as the activation of NF-κB and caspase-1 in stimulated HMC-1. Collectively, the findings of this study provide us with novel insights into the pharmacological actions of sophoricoside as a potential molecule for use in the treatment of allergic inflammation diseases.
Carvacrol: From Ancient Flavoring to Neuromodulatory Agent
Authors: Zotti Margherita , Colaianna Marilena , Morgese Maria , Tucci Paolo , Schiavone Stefania , Avato Pinarosa , Trabace Luigia
Published: May 2013

Oregano and thyme essential oils are used for therapeutic, aromatic and gastronomic purposes due to their richness in active substances, like carvacrol; however, the effects of the latter on the central nervous system have been poorly investigated. The aim of our study was to define the effects of carvacrol on brain neurochemistry and behavioural outcome in rats. Biogenic amine content in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus after chronic or acute oral carvacrol administration was measured. Animals were assessed by a forced swimming test. Carvacrol, administered for seven consecutive days (12.5 mg/kg p.o.), was able to increase dopamine and serotonin levels in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. When single doses were used (150 and 450 mg/kg p.o.), dopamine content was increased in the prefrontal cortex at both dose levels. On the contrary, a significant dopamine reduction in hippocampus of animals treated with 450 mg/kg of carvacrol was found. Acute carvacrol administration only significantly reduced serotonin content in either the prefrontal cortex or in the hippocampus at the highest dose. Moreover, acute carvacrol was ineffective in producing changes in the forced swimming test. Our data suggest that carvacrol is a brain-active molecule that clearly influences neuronal activity through modulation of neurotransmitters. If regularly ingested in low concentrations, it might determine feelings of well-being and could possibly have positive reinforcer effects.
Asymmetric Palladium-Catalysed Intramolecular Wacker-Type Cyclisations of Unsaturated Alcohols and Amino Alcohols
Authors: Doháňošová Jana , Gracza Tibor
Published: May 2013

The palladium (II)-catalysed reactions of alkenols and aminoalkenols such as oxycarbonylations or bicyclisations are powerful methods for the construction of oxygen and nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds. This review highlights recent progress in the development of the asymmetric palladium(II)-catalysed Wacker-type cyclisations of unsaturated polyols and aminoalcohols. The scope, limitations, and applications of these reactions are presented.
Polymer Directed Protein Assemblies
Authors: Van Rijn Patrick
Published: May 2013

Protein aggregation and protein self-assembly is an important occurrence in natural systems, and is in some form or other dictated by biopolymers. Very obvious influences of biopolymers on protein assemblies are, e.g., virus particles. Viruses are a multi-protein assembly of which the morphology is dictated by poly-nucleotides namely RNA or DNA. This “biopolymer” directs the proteins and imposes limitations on the structure like the length or diameter of the particle. Not only do these bionanoparticles use polymer-directed self-assembly, also processes like amyloid formation are in a way a result of directed protein assembly by partial unfolded/misfolded biopolymers namely, polypeptides. The combination of proteins and synthetic polymers, inspired by the natural processes, are therefore regarded as a highly promising area of research. Directed protein assembly is versatile with respect to the possible interactions which brings together the protein and polymer, e.g., electrostatic, v.d. Waals forces or covalent conjugation, and possible combinations are numerous due to the large amounts of different polymers and proteins available. The protein-polymer interacting behavior and overall morphology is envisioned to aid in clarifying protein-protein interactions and are thought to entail some interesting new functions and properties which will ultimately lead to novel bio-hybrid materials.
Open Access Publishing in Canada: Current and Future Library and University Press Supports
Authors: Taylor Donald , Morrison Heather , Owen Brian , Vézina Kumiko , Waller Andrew
Published: May 2013

Canadian university libraries, Canadian university presses, and non-university scholarly presses at Canadian universities were surveyed in the first part of 2010 as to the level of their support of Open Access (OA) journal publishing. Respondents were asked about journal hosting services in their organization as well as their thoughts on internal and external support for open access publishing. Results showed that most of the organizations are hosting OA journals, largely between one and five in number, and many supply journal hosting services, including some technical support. Personnel resources are a notable factor in the ability to host journals. Most respondents engage in some sort of internal support for open access publishing and are open to options that they are presently not utilizing. They are particularly amenable to OA publishing support from outside of their organizations, especially assistance at a consortial level.
Highly Specific and Cost-Efficient Detection of Salmonella Paratyphi A Combining Aptamers with Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Yang Ming , Peng Zhihui , Ning Yi , Chen Yongzhe , Zhou Qin , Deng Le
Published: May 2013

In this paper, a panel of single-stranded DNA aptamers with high affinity and specificity against Salmonella Paratyphi A was selected from an enriched oligonucleotide pool by a whole-cell-Systematic Evolution of Ligands by Exponential Enrichment (SELEX) procedure, during which four other Salmonella serovars were used as counter-selection targets. It was determined through a fluorescence assay that the selected aptamers had high binding ability and specificity to this pathogen. The dissociation constant of these aptamers were up to nanomolar range, and aptamer Apt22 with the lowest Kd (47 ± 3 nM) was used in cell imaging experiments. To detect this bacteria with high specificity and cost-efficiently, a novel useful detection method was also constructed based on the noncovalent self-assembly of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) and DNAzyme-labeled aptamer detection probes. The amounts of target bacteria could be quantified by exploiting chemoluminescence intensity changes at 420 nm and the detection limit of the method was 103 cfu/mL. This study demonstrated the applicability of Salmonella specific aptamers and their potential for use in the detection of Salmonella in food, clinical and environmental samples.
Surface Acoustic Wave Devices for Harsh Environment Wireless Sensing
Authors: Greve David , Chin Tao-Lun , Zheng Peng , Ohodnicki Paul , Baltrus John , Oppenheim Irving
Published: May 2013

Langasite surface acoustic wave devices can be used to implement harsh-environment wireless sensing of gas concentration and temperature. This paper reviews prior work on the development of langasite surface acoustic wave devices, followed by a report of recent progress toward the implementation of oxygen gas sensors. Resistive metal oxide films can be used as the oxygen sensing film, although development of an adherent barrier layer will be necessary with the sensing layers studied here to prevent interaction with the langasite substrate. Experimental results are presented for the performance of a langasite surface acoustic wave oxygen sensor with tin oxide sensing layer, and these experimental results are correlated with direct measurements of the sensing layer resistivity.
Low-Carbon Sustainable Precincts: An Australian Perspective
Authors: Bunning Jessica , Beattie Colin , Rauland Vanessa , Newman Peter
Published: May 2013

Australia’s urban built environment contributes significantly to the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions; therefore, encouraging urban development to pursue low-carbon outcomes will aid in reducing carbon in the overall economy. Cities and urban areas are configured in precincts, which have been identified as an ideal scale for low-carbon technologies that address energy, water and waste. Even though new governance models and systems are being created to enable low-carbon precincts to operate with a degree of independence within a broader centralised utility structure, greater effort is required to refocus governance on this smaller scale of delivery. Furthermore, at this time, no consistent carbon accounting framework is in place to measure emissions or emission reductions at this scale, thereby limiting the ability to acknowledge or reward progressive, sustainable low-carbon developments. To respond to this situation, a framework is proposed that could form both the basis of a carbon certification scheme for the built environment and provide a platform for generating carbon credits from urban development.
Evaluation of patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Pizzocaro C. , Paghera B. , Guerra U. P. , Caobelli F.
Published: May 2013

Quantification of myocardial perfusion scintigraphy is often performed to assist physicians in detecting coronary artery disease (CAD). Modern software and hardware packages provide improvements able to shorten scan time and/or reduce administered activity, without compromising image quality in radionuclide myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). Recently, multifocal collimators were introduced with dedicated reconstruction software, named IQ-SPECT, able to shorten considerably scan time. The aim of our study was to compare this new protocol to the already validated standard ones. Patients, methods: We enrolled 43 patients with suspected or diagnosed CAD. All patients underwent a two-days protocol radionuclide myocardial perfusion scan at rest and after a standard stress test (exercise or dipyridamole) after administering 99mTc-tetrofosmin. Images were acquired on a 2-head gamma camera and reconstructed with attenuation correction. All the images were scored using a 17-segments model by three experienced physicians, blind to clinical data and to acquisition and processing modality. Results, conclusion: No significant differences were recorded in perfusion scores on paired t-test and Wilcoxon among the full-time images reconstructed with standard protocol or IQSPECT, both overall on a 17-segments evaluation and when considering different territories of distribution. MPI with IQ-SPECT protocol can be acquired at about a quarter scan time without disagreement compared to full time scan acquisition performed with standard protocols.
BESIFORMUOJANČIO VILNIAUS MODERNIOJO CENTRO URBANISTINIS MODELIS
Authors: Motieka Saulius
Published: May 2013

Urban development principles of the “urban hill” on the right bank of the Neris river, which now is developing rather chaotically, have major importance for further formation of Vilnius urban identity and for formation of qualitative image of the capital. Toleration of further unregulated development would have a huge negative influence on urban identity, landscape, cultural heritage, real estate, and on interaction of these subjects. Therefore, it is necessary to define clear development principles of the modern centre in order to describe its complete urbanistic image and secure multifunctionality for public needs. This will make the area clear for investment, create conditions for preservation, accentuation and rational use of cultural and natural heritage. It will create objective possibilities for development management and establishment of regulation principles for the analysed area.

Santrauka

Vilniaus identiteto tęstinumui bei tolimesniam kokybiško sostinės įvaizdžio formavimui didelę svarbą turi šiuo metu stichiškai besivystančio Neries dešiniojo kranto ir „architektūrinės kalvos“ tolimesnės raidos urbanistiniai principai. Nereguliuojamos plėtros toleravimas darytų didžiausią neigiamą poveikį miesto identitetui, kraštovaizdžiui, kultūros paveldui, materialiam turtui ir šių veiksnių tarpusavio sąveikai. Todėl būtina nusistatyti aiškius metodinius moderniojo centro plėtros principus, kurie apibrėžtų vientisą urbanistinį centro įvaizdį, užtikrintų planuojamos teritorijos polifunkciškumą visuomeninių interesų atžvilgiu. Taptų aiškios investicinės erdvės galimybės, reglamentuotos sąlygos kultūriniam ir gamtiniam savitumui saugoti, ryškinti ir racionaliai naudoti, atsirastų objektyvios galimybės planuojamos teritorijos plėtrai valdyti ir svarbiausiems reglamentams nustatyti.
EVALUATING TENANTS’ SATISFACTION WITH PUBLIC HOUSING IN LAGOS, NIGERIA
Authors: Jiboye Adesoji David
Published: May 2013

This paper examines tenants’ satisfaction with public housing in Lagos, Nigeria. This was accomplished by assessing the levels of housing satisfaction of the general population and the degrees of satisfaction of tenants living in selected public housing estates within Lagos metropolis. Three (3) major housing components – environment (E), dwelling (D), and management (M), were identified and employed for this study. Six (6), representing 10% of estates, were randomly selected from forty (40) public housing estates in Lagos. Subsequently, questionnaires were administered to 1.022 (10%), of households from the total of 12.323 households in the selected estates of the study area. The data obtained from the survey were analyzed in two stages. First, is the use of descriptive analysis such as frequency tabulation to assess the general levels of tenants’ housing satisfaction, and second, is the use of Satisfaction Indices (RSI) to determine the degree of tenants’ satisfaction with each of the housing components identified for the study. The results of the analysis indicate that the level of tenants’ housing satisfaction varies and is dependent on the environment, dwelling and management interaction systems. It demonstrated that the level of tenants’ satisfaction with the housing environment and dwellings was above average (adequately satisfactory), but their level of satisfaction with the housing management was below average (unsatisfactory). The study shows that users’ inputs and preferences should be strongly considered by planners and public housing agencies when planning and designing public housing projects. Santrauka Straipsnyje nagrinėjamas ir vertinamas Nigerijos miesto Lagos gyventojų pasitenkinimas municipalinio fondo būstais. Autoriaus tyrimas atskleidė, kad pats būstų ir jų aplinkos įvertinimas yra vidutinio lygmens, jų priežiūros ir tvarkymo lygis yra žemesnis. Nustatyta, kad gyventojų pasitenkinimą lemia ir socialinė bei ekonominė, kultūrinė ir fizinė gerovė. Autorius yra įsitikinęs, kad jo tyrimo išvados ir rekomendacijos bus vertingos būstų statybos ir priežiūros įstaigoms, planuotojams ir architektams, formuluojant naujus ateities būstų projektavimo ir priežiūros reikalavimus.
Transversalité, harmonie et humanité entre ciel et terre
Authors: Jung Hwa-Yol , Klein-Lataud Christine
Published: May 2013

Cet article présente le concept de transversalité comme une possible clé d’interprétation des phénomènes culturels et sociaux de la postmodernité.
La promotion des sciences humaines en Corée
Authors: Song Ki-Dong , Klein-Lataud Christine
Published: May 2013

Cet article présente les politiques de promotion des sciences humaines poursuivies par le gouvernement coréen au cours des dernières années. Il explique l’importance accordée à ces disciplines dans le contexte du développement économique du pays et insiste sur l’importance que revêt une formation humaniste pour une compétitivité accrue de la Corée à l’échelle globale. Il détaille les actions et programmes principaux mis en place ainsi que les perspectives d’avenir. L’auteur dirige la Division de affaires universitaires auprès du Ministère de l’Éducation, de la Science et de la Technologie de la République de Corée.
UEMOA, CEMAC : quelle performance en matière de commerce ?
Authors: Carrère Céline
Published: May 2013

Cet article a pour objectif de cerner les performances en matière de commerce obtenues jusqu’alors au sein de l’Union économique et monétaire Ouest-Africaine (UEMOA) et de la Communauté économique et monétaire d’Afrique centrale (CEMAC) sur la période 1995-2010. Tout d’abord, en décomposant les mesures de diversification des exportations, nous mettons en évidence deux dynamiques : (i) il existe dans les deux unions une diversification très claire à la marge extensive, c’est-à-dire via l’exportation de nouveaux produits, (ii) les pays des deux unions présentent un panier d’exportations intra-régionales beaucoup plus diversifié qu’avec le reste du monde. Puis, à l’aide d’un modèle de gravité en panel, nous obtenons 3 principales conclusions sur les flux de commerce échangés: (i) en moyenne, l’UEMOA et la CEMAC ont engendré du détournement de commerce, un supplément de commerce intra-régional significatif apparaissant dans le cas de l’UEMOA mais pas dans celui de la CEMAC ; (ii) la stabilité des taux de change conférée par le partage d’une monnaie unique a permis aux pays de chaque union d’améliorer le commerce intra-régional tout en limitant le phénomène de détournement ; (iii) il existe une grande hétérogénéité des gains associés à l’intégration régionale au sein de chaque union. Les pays qui étaient relativement concentrés dans leur structure d’exportation lors de la mise en place des accords subissent un fort détournement de commerce tandis que les pays les plus diversifiés bénéficient d’une augmentation substantielle de leurs exportations de biens industriels vers leurs partenaires - sans subir de détournement de commerce. Classification JEL : C23, F14, F15, O24, O55.
« Je me débrouille ». L'économie informelle et le chômage en Croatie
Authors: Rubić Tihana
Published: May 2013

Les grands changements sur les plans socio-économique et politique intervenus en Croatie avec l’abandon du socialisme au début des années 1990 n’ont pas eu beaucoup d’incidences sur les pratiques et les valeurs relatives à la participation des gens « ordinaires » à l’économie informelle. Le présent article se propose d’illustrer ethnographiquement cette thèse et de l’examiner dans le contexte du plein-emploi socialiste et dans l’actuelle situation de chômage. Il attire l’attention sur l’importance d’une analyse culturelle de l’économie informelle qui révèle les motivations sociales et symboliques de ceux qui y prennent part.
L'économie de la musique traditionnelle en Croatie postsocialiste
Authors: Ceribašić Naila
Published: May 2013

L’auteure étudie les mouvements d’argent qui concernent la musique traditionnelle dans la Croatie d’hier et d’aujourd’hui et qui est porteuse d’un capital économique, social ou symbolique. En examinant la période postsocialiste, elle attire l’attention sur le lien de plus en plus intime entre capital culturel et capital économique, et estime que l’étude classique de « la politique et de la poétique » devrait être complétée par une étude de « l’économie », cette dernière étant le troisième aspect essentiel de la culture musicale.
Language, Cultural Space and Meaning in the Phenomenon of “Cro-dance”
Authors: Baker Catherine
Published: May 2013

Phénomène musical des années 1990, la Cro-dance a associé à une musique de danse du Nord-Est de l’Europe des paroles en croate et souvent en anglais, contrairement à toute la musique populaire qui est seulement chantée en croate. S’appuyant sur le champ de la sociolinguistique et de l’anthropologie, cet article analyse les échanges de langage dans ces textes musicaux comme les récits auxquels les artistes, les producteurs et le public les associent.
Phénotype, culture et migration
Authors: Mariani Léo
Published: May 2013

À travers l’expérience d’une population de Français d’origine cambodgienne qui ont choisi de s’installer dans le pays que leurs parents ont quitté il y a trente ans, cet article aborde la question de l’identité. Plutôt que de s’intéresser aux « stratégies » identitaires d’« acteurs sociaux » passablement désincarnés, l’article met l’accent sur les effets les plus immédiats de l’arrivée au Cambodge sur les représentations du soi. L’objectif est alors de montrer comment le processus identitaire en question est lié aux spécificités du modèle français d’intégration ainsi qu’à l’objectivation d’une mémoire jusqu’alors inscrite dans les corps.
Le droit politique dans les histoires de toutes les nations
Authors: de Casabianca Denis
Published: May 2013

En partant du célèbre jugement que Rousseau formule sur Montesquieu dans l’Émile, on examine comment la catégorie de « droit politique », posée dans le livre premier de L’Esprit des lois , est révélatrice d’un effort pour penser les normes politiques en situation et pour éclairer les prescriptions juridiques à partir de l’étude des essais de la raison législatrice.
La figure de Montesquieu dans le débat constitutionnel américain
Authors: Amiel Anne
Published: May 2013

Pour les révolutionnaires américains, Montesquieu est d’abord une figure d’autorité dont on révère les « axiomes ». Mais durant le débat très virulent auquel donne lieu la Constitution fédérale, ce sont les « antifédéralistes » qui invoquent le plus souvent son autorité, pour refuser la possibilité d’une république étendue, revendiquer une stricte « séparation » des pouvoirs, déplorer l’effacement de la vertu, etc. Ils contraignent donc les fédéralistes à une réponse paradoxale. Il s’agit de lire Montesquieu plus finement et d’en assimiler les leçons tout en récusant de plus en plus fermement son autorité, au nom de l’exorcisme de l’héritage historique (tout particulièrement anglais) et de la rumination de l’expérience propre. Montesquieu est d’autant plus présent qu’il est rejeté, ce qui engage un tout nouveau rapport à l’histoire et à la tradition.
A Prospective Comparison Between Cyclopentolate Spray and Drops in Pediatric Outpatients
Authors: Syrimi Marina , Jones Sophie M. , Thompson Graham M.
Published: May 2013

Purpose:

To determine whether children tolerate cyclopentolate 1% spray better than drops and to assess the adequacy of cycloplegia achieved by spray for objective refraction.

Methods:

The effects of cyclopentolate 1% drops and spray on distress levels were assessed prospectively using a guardian questionnaire in consecutive patients 10 years of age or younger. Distress was graded at various points during the appointment using a Likert scale of 1 to 10 (1 = no distress, 10 = severe distress). The adequacy of cycloplegia in children receiving cyclopentolate spray and the waiting times were assessed via a Likert questionnaire completed by the examining physician.

Results:

The guardians of 72 and 77 children who received cyclopentolate 1% drops or spray, respectively, completed the questionnaire. The children were divided in three age groups: 1 to 4 years, 5 to 7 years, and 8 to 10 years. Children 7 years or younger were significantly less distressed by administration of cyclopentolate 1% spray (
P
< .005). There was no statistical difference in distress levels in children older than 7 years (
P
= .9719). Thirteen of the 77 children who received cyclopentolate 1% spray did not have adequate cycloplegia to allow objective refraction.

Conclusion:

The results demonstrate cyclopentolate 1% spray is less distressing at the time of administration than cyclopentolate 1% drops for children 7 years or younger. However, the cycloplegia achieved is not adequate in a high percentage of children.

[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2013;50(5):290–295.]
La trajectoire de Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus chez Lucain
Authors: Galtier Fabrice
Published: May 2013

En réponse à l’idée que le compte rendu des actes du chef pompéien Domitius Ahenobarbus chez Lucain, considéré comme déviant par rapport à la réalité historique, détermine une conception du personnage tout aussi éloignée de la véritable nature de l’individu, l’article explique pourquoi analyser la manière dont le poète représente le comportement de Domitius implique de s’interroger sur la validité de son traitement historiographique. Cette étape préliminaire permet ensuite d’éclairer la caractérisation du personnage en fonction de la double confrontation dialectique qui le met aux prises avec César. Figure-symbole, Domitius n’incarne pas seulement la résistance à une entreprise politique de destruction de la respublica, il incarne aussi la volonté lucanienne de dénoncer une réécriture du passé qui affecte l’image de ceux qui en furent les acteurs.
Cesare: commentarii, historiae, vitae
Authors: Zecchini Giuseppe
Published: May 2013

L’article examine autour de César, sa personne et ses écrits, les diverses modalités historiographiques à l’œuvre pour rendre compte de sa carrière très particulière. Il replace les écrits de César et sur César dans le contexte de la naissance progressive d’une historiographie littéraire à Rome et montre comment la figure du restaurateur a pu s’imposer pour un long moment face à celle du tyran, en raison même de la mainmise de la tradition césarienne sur l’historiographie de la période.
Vies parallèles dans le récit livien : Hannibal et Scipion l’Africain
Authors: Mineo Bernard
Published: May 2013

Le propos de cet exposé est d’illustrer la réalité de ce projet de vies parallèles et d’en éclairer la raison d’être. À cette fin, on examine tour à tour les motifs qui permettent à l’auteur de souligner les analogies entre les deux héros, de dégager ensuite les structures narratives porteuses de ces parallélismes biographiques ainsi que les procédés rhétoriques les mettant en valeur (amplification, dispositio) ; enfin, on fait apparaître les éléments de différenciation entre les deux vies susceptibles d’éclairer le sens de la construction livienne.
La part biographique dans une œuvre historique condensée
Authors: Flamerie de Lachapelle Guillaume
Published: May 2013

L’article interroge la place que peut prendre dans le genre de l’Epitome cultivé par Florus la biographie d’agents individuels en montrant comment Florus y négocie avec trois contraintes : la brièveté imposée par le genre, la coexistence d’une méthode chronologique et d’une méthode thématique, et la vision particulière du monde qui sous-tend l’œuvre. On montre que ces contraintes n’empêchent pas Florus de se dégager de contraintes trop étouffantes et de donner vie à certains héros, en redoublant de virtuosité, en bouleversant les données chronologiques et historiques ou surtout en faisant de l’écriture biographique un élément signifiant sur le fond, puisqu’elle finit par traduire la dégénérescence qui frappe la République romaine, d’où disparaît progressivement tout sentiment de relever d’un destin commun.
Optical Label Processing Techniques for Intelligent Forwarding of Packets in All-Optical Packet Switched Networks
Authors: Calabretta Nicola
Published: May 2013

In this chapter, the authors review several optical label processing techniques providing a comparison based on the potential for each technique to allow for implementation of a scalable and low latency optical packet switching cross-connect node. They present and demonstrate an optical packet switch sub-system employing in-band labeling to allow for transparent forwarding of multi-wavelength packets with multiple data formats at multiple data bit-rates. The optical packet switching sub-system employs a scalable, asynchronous, and low latency label processor. Experimental results are provided that confirm the operation of the label processor in optical packet switching system testbeds. Moreover, the authors discuss applications of the optical packet switching node based on optical label processor and the potential to allow the implementation of intelligent systems for optimal routing of the packets in the optical domain.
Governance in Perspective
Authors: Masclet Laurence , Goujon Philippe
Published: May 2013

This paper describes the evolution of the discipline of governance study through a focus on the evolution of proceduralism. From a lecture and a critique of Maesschalck and Lenoble “contextual proceduralism” and their reconstruction of the evolution of the field, the authors aim at creating a more open theory (“comprehensive proceduralism”) that would avoid some of the reduction of previous school of procedural governance, notably the reduction to argumentation, by opening the scope of governance to the different register of discourse. This paper aims at introducing the EGAIS book, and thus will introduce the theoretical (and critical) emergence of comprehensive proceduralism, leaving some of the consequences and application area to further investigation in the book.
A Robust Embedding Scheme and an Efficient Evaluation Protocol for 3D Meshes Watermarking
Authors: Ben Jabra Saoussen , Zagrouba Ezzeddine
Published: May 2013

This paper proposes two main contributions. In the first one, a 3D mesh watermarking using Maximally Stable Meshes detection and multi-signatures embedding is presented. The originality of this scheme is to detect the attack type applied on marked mesh. In plus, it is robust against numerous attacks, blind and invisible. The proposed scheme uses the Maximally Stable meshes (MSMs) to insert signature. After MSMs detection using an extension of Maximally Stable Efficient Regions, three MSMs are selected to be marked. Then, three different signatures are embedded using three different watermarking schemes. This embedding allows knowing the type of the applied attack by detecting which of the signatures resisted. In more, it maximizes robustness by profiting from advantages of every scheme. The second contribution is a new evaluation protocol for 3D watermarking which allows generating a performance score for 3D mesh watermarking schemes. This protocol is based on six criteria having different weights in performance score computing. Finally, this protocol is used to evaluate the proposed watermarking scheme and to compare it with other algorithms. The obtained results verified the good performances of the proposed algorithm which presents the highest score.
A Semi-Supervised Metric Learning for Content-Based Image Retrieval
Authors: Daoudi I. , Idrissi K.
Published: May 2013

In this paper, the authors propose a kernel-based approach to improve the retrieval performances of CBIR systems by learning a distance metric based on class probability distributions. Unlike other metric learning methods which are based on local or global constraints, the proposed method learns for each class a nonlinear kernel which transforms the original feature space to a more effective one. The distances between query and database images are then measured in the new space. Experimental results show that the kernel-based approach not only improves the retrieval performances of kernel distance without learning, but also outperforms other kernel metric learning methods.