bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Annealing Temperature on the Physical Properties of the Lanthanum Deficiency Manganites
Authors: Ridha Skini , Essebti Dhahri , Hlil El
Published: October 2017

The lanthanum deficiency manganites La0.8-x□xCa0.2MnO3 (x = 0, 0.1 and 0.2), where □ is a lanthanum vacancy, were prepared using the classic ceramic methods with different thermal treatments (1373 K and 973 K). The structural, magnetic, and magnetocaloric properties of these compounds were studied as a function of annealing temperature. It was noted that the annealing temperature did not affect the crystal structure of our samples (orthorhombic structure with Pnma space group). Nevertheless, a change in the variation of the unit cell volume V, the average bond length dMn–O, and the average bond angles θMn–O–Mn were observed. Magnetization versus temperature study has shown that all samples exhibited a magnetic transition from ferromagnetic (FM) to paramagnetic (PM) phase with increasing temperature. However, it can be clearly seen that the annealing at 973 K induced an increase of the magnetization. In addition, the magnetocaloric effect (MCE) as well as the relative cooling power (RCP) were estimated. As an important result, the values of MCE and RCP in our Lanthanum-deficiency manganites are reported to be near to those found in gadolinium, considered as magnetocaloric reference material.
Evaluation Method for the Firm Power Escalation of a Wind-Storage Hybrid Power System
Authors: Zhu Sanli , Lu Jiping , Li Zheng , Lin Junyi
Published: October 2017

To improve the controllability of the electric power output and the economic performance of a large-scale wind farm, an auxiliary energy storage system is required. This paper deals with the rule of planning reasonable energy storage power and capacity based on the historical annual mean wind speed data, the probability density of the pulsating wind power output, and the warranted firm power provided by the wind farm. Specifically, the evaluation index of the fluctuation degree of the firm power is defined in order to optimize the planned energy storage capacity. After that, the firm power escalation affected by the energy storage power and the conversion rate of the storage device are quantitatively evaluated. All of these analyses contribute in a significant way towards determining the acceptable energy conversion rate with the condition of limited energy storage space of a wind-storage hybrid power system. The proposed evaluation method of the firm power escalation is verified by MatLab simulation results.
Projecting Land Use Changes by Integrating Site Suitability Analysis with Historic Land Use Change Dynamics in the Context of Increasing Demand for Wood Pellets in the Southern United States
Authors: Shrestha Surendra , Dwivedi Puneet
Published: October 2017

Rising export of wood pellets from southern United States would bring more land under loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) at the expense of other competitive land uses. We developed an approach to project potential changes in existing land uses by integrating site suitability analysis with historical land use dynamics in a watershed located within Oconee River Basin, Georgia, United States. We developed a GIS-based site suitability model to classify land into three categories (High, Medium, and Low) for loblolly pine. Then, we calculated historical rates of land use changes in the selected watershed. Finally, we integrated the output of suitability analysis with the projected rates of land use changes under the two scenarios of wood pellet demand (High and Low) to determine an increase in area under loblolly pine for 2016, 2021, and 2026 in a spatially explicit manner. Relative to 2011, the combined changes in the shrubland and evergreen forest land cover categories under High Demand scenario were 7.6, 14.6, and 21.1% and under Low Demand scenario were 3.8, 7.5, and 11.1% for the years 2016, 2021, and 2026, respectively. The developed approach could be applied in a relatively short time at modest spatial scales. The outputs of this study can also be used to determine the environmental implications of land use changes for ensuring the overall sustainability of wood-based bioenergy development in the United States and beyond.
From Above and on the Ground: Geospatial Methods for Recording Endangered Archaeology in the Middle East and North Africa
Authors: Rayne Louise , Bradbury Jennie , Mattingly David , Philip Graham , Bewley Robert , Wilson Andrew
Published: October 2017

The EAMENA (Endangered Archaeology of the Middle East and North Africa) project is a collaboration between the Universities of Leicester, Oxford and Durham; it is funded by the Arcadia Fund and the Cultural Protection Fund. This paper explores the development of the EAMENA methodology, and discusses some of the problems of working across such a broad region. We discuss two main case studies: the World Heritage site of Cyrene illustrates how the project can use satellite imagery (dating from the 1960s to 2017), in conjunction with published data to create a detailed set of database records for a single site and, in particular, highlights the impact of modern urban expansion across the region. Conversely, the Homs Cairns case study demonstrates how the EAMENA methodology also works at an extensive scale, and integrates image interpretation (using imagery dating from the 1960s to 2016), landuse mapping and field survey (2007–2010) to record and analyse the condition of hundreds of features across a small study region. This study emphasises the impact of modern agricultural and land clearing activities. Ultimately, this paper assesses the effectiveness of the EAMENA approach, evaluating its potential success against projects using crowd-sourcing and automation for recording archaeological sites, and seeks to determine the most appropriate methods to use to document sites and assess disturbances and threats across such a vast and diverse area.
Commuting, Life-Satisfaction and Internet Addiction
Authors: Lachmann Bernd , Sariyska Rayna , Kannen Christopher , Stavrou Maria , Montag Christian
Published: October 2017

The focus of the present work was on the association between commuting (business and private), life satisfaction, stress, and (over-) use of the Internet. Considering that digital devices are omnipresent in buses and trains, no study has yet investigated if commuting contributes to the development of Internet addiction. Overall, N = 5039 participants (N = 3477 females, age M = 26.79, SD = 10.68) took part in an online survey providing information regarding their commuting behavior, Internet addiction, personality, life satisfaction, and stress perception. Our findings are as follows: Personality seems to be less suitable to differentiate between commuter and non-commuter groups, which is possibly due to commuters often not having a choice but simply must accept offered job opportunities at distant locations. Second, the highest levels of satisfaction were found with income and lodging in the group commuting for business purposes. This might be related to the fact that commuting results in higher salaries (hence also better and more expensive housing style) due to having a job in another city which might exceed job opportunities at one’s own living location. Third, within the business-commuters as well as in the private-commuter groups, females had significantly higher levels of stress than males. This association was not present in the non-commuter group. For females, commuting seems to be a higher burden and more stressful than for males, regardless of whether they commute for business or private reasons. Finally, we observed an association between higher stress perception (more negative attitude towards commuting) and Internet addiction. This finding suggests that some commuters try to compensate their perceived stress with increased Internet use.
The Impact of a School-Based Weight Management Program Involving Parents via mHealth for Overweight and Obese Children and Adolescents with Intellectual Disability: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lee Regina , Leung Cynthia , Chen Hong , Louie Lobo , Brown Michael , Chen Jyu-Lin , Cheung Gordon , Lee Paul
Published: October 2017

There is a scarcity of resources and studies that utilize targeted weight management interventions to engage parents via mHealth tools targeting obese children and adolescents with mild intellectual disabilities (MIDs) extended from school to a home setting. To test the feasibility and acceptability of a school-based weight program (SBWMP) involving parents via mHealth tools designed to reduce weight, enhance knowledge and adopt healthy lifestyles, and thereby achieve better psychosocial well-being among children and adolescents with MIDs. Four special schools were randomly assigned as intervention or control schools. Students from the intervention group (n = 63) were compared to those in the control group (n = 52), which comprised those with usual school planned activities and no parental involvement. Demographics were considered as covariates in a general linear model, an ordinal regression model and a binary logistic regression model analyzing the relationships between the SBWMP and the outcome variables at baseline (T0) and six months later (T1). Body weight, body mass index, and triceps and subscapular skinfold thickness were lower in the intervention group compared to the control group, although the differences were not statistically significant. There was a positive and direct impact of the SBWMP on students’ health knowledge and psychological impacts in the intervention group. The SBWMP extended to the home involving parents via mHealth tools is a feasible and acceptable program for this group with MIDs and their parents.
Restructuring the Production of Medicines: An Investigation on the Pharmaceutical Sector in China and the Role of Mergers and Acquisitions
Authors: Barbieri Elisa , Huang Manli , Pi Shenglei , Tassinari Mattia
Published: October 2017

In places like China, an ageing population coupled with changes in living standards and increases in disposable income, imply a shift of the demand for health-related goods and services which is likely to affect the whole organization of the industries that supply such goods and services at the global level. One of the industries most likely to be affected is the pharmaceutical sector. In the early 2000s China was already the second largest global producer of pharmaceutical ingredients. The pharmaceutical sector has become one of the most important industries promoted by the Chinese government and Five-Year Plan of China’s Strategic Emerging Sectors, mergers and acquisition (M&A) activity has been the key strategy to restructure the sector and increase its competitiveness. This paper firstly provides an updated picture of the evolution of M&As in the pharmaceutical sector, compared to other sectors, in China in the period 2005–2013. Secondly, we develop a composite indicator to measure the industrial performance of all Chinese industrial sectors over time, which allows us to assess the performance of the pharmaceutical industry compared to that of other sectors of the Chinese economy. Finally, we develop and estimate an empirical model that tests the relationship between the number of M&A in a sector and its performance, with a particular focus on the pharmaceutical case. The results offer some initial evidence of positive effects from the process of restructuring of the pharmaceutical sector in China.
Changing the Smoking Trajectory: Evaluating the Impact of School-Based Tobacco Interventions on Changes to Susceptibility to Future Smoking
Authors: Cole Adam , Qian Wei , Leatherdale Scott T.
Published: October 2017

School-based programs and policies can reduce student smoking rates. However, their impact on never-smoking students has not been investigated despite the clear transition between non-susceptible, susceptible, and ever tried smoking statuses. The objective of this paper was to examine the longitudinal student-level impact of six changes in school-based tobacco control programs and policies on student transitions in susceptibility to smoking over one year. Two multinomial logistic regression models identified the relative risk of a change in self-reported susceptibility to smoking or in trying a cigarette among never-smoking students in each of the six intervention schools compared to the relative risk among never-smoking students in control schools. Model 1 identified the relative risk of a change in smoking susceptibility status among baseline non-susceptible never smoking students, while Model 2 identified the relative risk of a change in smoking susceptibility status among baseline susceptible never smoking students. Students at some intervention schools were at increased risk of becoming susceptible to or trying a cigarette at one year follow-up. Intervention studies should examine changes to susceptibility to future smoking when evaluating impact to ensure that school-based tobacco control programs and policies do not negatively change the risk status of never-smoking students.
Absorption and Emission Spectroscopic Investigation of Thermal Dynamics and Photo-Dynamics of the Rhodopsin Domain of the Rhodopsin-Guanylyl Cyclase from the Nematophagous Fungus Catenaria anguillulae
Authors: Penzkofer Alfons , Scheib Ulrike , Stehfest Katja , Hegemann Peter
Published: October 2017

The rhodopsin-guanylyl cyclase from the nematophagous fungus Catenaria anguillulae belongs to a recently discovered class of enzymerhodopsins and may find application as a tool in optogenetics. Here the rhodopsin domain CaRh of the rhodopsin-guanylyl cyclase from Catenaria anguillulae was studied by absorption and emission spectroscopic methods. The absorption cross-section spectrum and excitation wavelength dependent fluorescence quantum distributions of CaRh samples were determined (first absorption band in the green spectral region). The thermal stability of CaRh was studied by long-time attenuation measurements at room temperature (20.5 °C) and refrigerator temperature of 3.5 °C. The apparent melting temperature of CaRh was determined by stepwise sample heating up and cooling down (obtained apparent melting temperature: 62 ± 2 °C). The photocycle dynamics of CaRh was investigated by sample excitation to the first inhomogeneous absorption band of the CaRhda dark-adapted state around 590 nm (long-wavelength tail), 530 nm (central region) and 470 nm (short-wavelength tail) and following the absorption spectra development during exposure and after exposure (time resolution 0.0125 s). The original protonated retinal Schiff base PRSBall-trans in CaRhda photo-converted reversibly to protonated retinal Schiff base PRSBall-trans,la1 with restructured surroundings (CaRhla1 light-adapted state, slightly blue-shifted and broadened first absorption band, recovery to CaRhda with time constant of 0.8 s) and deprotonated retinal Schiff base RSB13-cis (CaRhla2 light-adapted state, first absorption band in violet to near ultraviolet spectral region, recovery to CaRhda with time constant of 0.35 s). Long-time light exposure of light-adapted CaRhla1 around 590, 530 and 470 nm caused low-efficient irreversible degradation to photoproducts CaRhprod. Schemes of the primary photocycle dynamics of CaRhda and the secondary photocycle dynamics of CaRhla1 are developed.
Agricultural Land Use Change after NAFTA in Central West Mexico
Authors: Orozco-Ramírez Quetzalcóatl , Astier Marta , Barrasa Sara
Published: October 2017

It has been suggested that agricultural land use change and modernization in agricultural production techniques are related to the loss of crop diversity. Two processes contribute to this loss; first is the replacement of landraces by modern varieties, and second is the abandonment of traditional crops in favor of cash crops. We studied the expression of these processes in a region that is both an agro-biodiversity and cultural center and one of the most significant fruit exporters of Mexico. We analyzed agricultural change based on the transformation of cropping areas and the primary crops’ locations in Michoacán state. We examined the crop-harvested area statistics from 1950 to 2015, and identified 23 crops as the most important in terms of harvested area and monetary value. After NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement), harvested area for nine crops changed significantly: seven crops increased, and two decreased. Positive trends were observed for commercial fruits oriented to export markets, and negative trends were observed for traditional crops. These crops, such as beans and maize, are important for food security. Additionally, we analyzed how these land-use and agricultural changes overlap in zones of maize planted-area change. Using a maize-race collection database, we identified three native maize races that could be at risk due to the abandonment of maize in favor of commercial crops.
Synthesis of Chromone-Related Pyrazole Compounds
Authors: Santos Clementina , Silva Vera , Silva Artur
Published: October 2017

Chromones, six-membered oxygen heterocycles, and pyrazoles, five-membered two-adjacentnitrogen- containing heterocycles, represent two important classes of biologically active compounds. Certain derivatives of these scaffolds play an important role in medicinal chemistry and have been extensively used as versatile building blocks in organic synthesis. In this context, we will discuss the most relevant advances on the chemistry that involves both chromone and pyrazole rings. The methods reviewed include the synthesis of chromone-pyrazole dyads, synthesis of chromone-pyrazole-fused compounds, and chromones as starting materials in the synthesis of 3(5)-(2-hydroxyaryl)pyrazoles, among others. This review will cover the literature on the chromone and pyrazole dual chemistry and their outcomes in the 21st century.
Micronutrient Status and Dietary Intake of Iron, Vitamin A, Iodine, Folate and Zinc in Women of Reproductive Age and Pregnant Women in Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa: A Systematic Review of Data from 2005 to 2015
Authors: Harika Rajwinder , Faber Mieke , Samuel Folake , Kimiywe Judith , Mulugeta Afework , Eilander Ans
Published: October 2017

A systematic review was conducted to evaluate the status and intake of iron, vitamin A, iodine, folate and zinc in women of reproductive age (WRA) (≥15–49 years) and pregnant women (PW) in Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa. National and subnational data published between 2005 and 2015 were searched via Medline, Scopus and national public health websites. Per micronutrient, relevant data were pooled into an average prevalence of deficiency, weighted by sample size (WAVG). Inadequate intakes were estimated from mean (SD) intakes. This review included 65 surveys and studies from Ethiopia (21), Kenya (11), Nigeria (21) and South Africa (12). In WRA, WAVG prevalence of anaemia ranged from 18–51%, iron deficiency 9–18%, and iron deficiency anaemia at 10%. In PW, the prevalence was higher, and ranged from 32–62%, 19–61%, and 9–47%, respectively. In WRA, prevalence of vitamin A, iodine, zinc and folate deficiencies ranged from 4–22%, 22–55%, 34% and 46%, while in PW these ranged from 21–48%, 87%, 46–76% and 3–12% respectively. Inadequate intakes of these micronutrients are high and corresponded with the prevalence figures. Our findings indicate that nationally representative data are needed to guide the development of nutrition interventions and public health programs, such as dietary diversification, micronutrient fortification and supplementation.
Microfluidics-Based Approaches to the Isolation of African Trypanosomes
Authors: Barrett Michael P. , Cooper Jonathan M. , Regnault Clément , Holm Stefan H. , Beech Jason P. , Tegenfeldt Jonas O. , Hochstetter Axel
Published: October 2017

African trypanosomes are responsible for significant levels of disease in both humans and animals. The protozoan parasites are free-living flagellates, usually transmitted by arthropod vectors, including the tsetse fly. In the mammalian host they live in the bloodstream and, in the case of human-infectious species, later invade the central nervous system. Diagnosis of the disease requires the positive identification of parasites in the bloodstream. This can be particularly challenging where parasite numbers are low, as is often the case in peripheral blood. Enriching parasites from body fluids is an important part of the diagnostic pathway. As more is learned about the physicochemical properties of trypanosomes, this information can be exploited through use of different microfluidic-based approaches to isolate the parasites from blood or other fluids. Here, we discuss recent advances in the use of microfluidics to separate trypanosomes from blood and to isolate single trypanosomes for analyses including drug screening.
Detecting Steps Walking at very Low Speeds Combining Outlier Detection, Transition Matrices and Autoencoders from Acceleration Patterns
Authors: Muñoz-Organero Mario , Ruiz-Blázquez Ramona
Published: October 2017

In this paper, we develop and validate a new algorithm to detect steps while walking at speeds between 30 and 40 steps per minute based on the data sensed from a single tri-axial accelerometer. The algorithm concatenates three consecutive phases. First, an outlier detection is performed on the sensed data based on the Mahalanobis distance to pre-detect candidate points in the acceleration time series that may contain a ground contact segment of data while walking. Second, the acceleration segment around the pre-detected point is used to calculate the transition matrix in order to capture the time dependencies. Finally, autoencoders, trained with data segments containing ground contact transition matrices from acceleration series from labeled steps are used to reconstruct the computed transition matrices at each pre-detected point. A similarity index is used to assess if the pre-selected point contains a true step in the 30–40 steps per minute speed range. Our experimental results, based on a database from three different participants performing similar activities to the target one, are able to achieve a recall = 0.88 with precision = 0.50 improving the results when directly applying the autoencoders to acceleration patterns (recall = 0.77 with precision = 0.50).
Life Cycle Analysis of Energy Production from Food Waste through Anaerobic Digestion, Pyrolysis and Integrated Energy System
Authors: Opatokun Suraj Adebayo , Lopez-Sabiron Ana , Ferreira German , Strezov Vladimir
Published: October 2017

The environmental performance of industrial anaerobic digestion (AD), pyrolysis, and integrated system (AD sequence with pyrolysis) on food waste treatment were evaluated using life cycle assessment. The integrated treatment system indicated similar environmental benefits to AD with the highest benefits in climate change and water depletion in addition to the increased energy generation potential and the production of valuable products (biochar and bio-oil). Pyrolysis results illustrated higher impact across water, fossil fuel, and mineral depletion, although still providing a better option than conventional landfilling of food waste. The dewatering phase in the AD process accounted for 70% of the treatment impact while the pre-treatment of the food waste was responsible for the main burden in the pyrolysis process. The study indicated that the three treatment options of food waste management are environmentally more favorable than the conventional landfilling of the wastes.
Bacteriology in uncomplicated urinary tract infections in Norwegian general practice from 2001–2015
Authors: Bollestad Marianne , Vik Ingvild , Grude Nils , Blix Hege Salvesen , Brekke Hanne , Lindbaek Morten
Published: October 2017

Background

Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women are common, and urine samples from these patients are not routinely cultured. Empirical treatment is based on knowledge of resistance patterns for common uropathogens.

Aim

To evaluate the bacteriological findings and resistance patterns in urine samples from women with uncomplicated urinary tract infections, and to assess the relationship between antimicrobial use and resistance patterns from 2000–2015 in Norway.

Method

Bacteriology and resistance patterns were compared in 184 urine cultures from 2001, 406 urine cultures from 2010–2011 and 259 urine cultures from 2013–2015. Antibiotic use data from 2000–2015 were obtained from national databases.

Results

Escherichia coli (E. coli) was the main bacterial agent in 80% of the cultures. Staphylococcus saprophyticus (Staph. saprophyticus) represented 6–17%. For E. coli, resistance to mecillinam showed some variation but remained below 9%. There was negligible resistance to nitrofurantoin. Resistance to trimethoprim seemed to stabilise over the last 5 years at around 20%. Amoxicillin resistance had some variations, but remained stable around 30%. There was a steady rise in total consumption of selected antibiotics commonly used to treat urinary tract infections for the period 2000–2015.

Conclusion

Mecillinam and nitrofurantoin are both excellent first choices for empirical treatment of uncomplicated urinary tract infections. This study suggests that increasing resistance to trimethoprim challenges the rationale for its use as a first-line agent.
Service quality and economic performance in the US airline business
Authors: KALEMBA Nicole , CAMPA-PLANAS Fernando , HERNÁNDEZ-LARA Ana Beatriz , SÁNCHEZ-REBULL Maria Victòria
Published: October 2017

In order to cover this goal, four quality indexes related to the airline industry, and two economic performance. In order to cover this goal, four quality indexes related to the airline industry, and two economic performance indicators, revenues and return on investment (ROI), have been considered. Data from American airline companies from 2006 to 2013 have been used to determine if airlines’ profitability increases when service quality improves. Considering the effects on airlines’ profitability, the results confirm the positive and significant influence of service quality on the ROI of the US airline companies. A non-significant effect was found for airline revenues in relation to quality No previous research in this area has been done so these findings could encourage airline companies to invest in quality, since this policy can have a positive return on their profitability.
Strong Clustering of Lyman Break Galaxies around Luminous Quasars at Z ∼ 4*

†
Authors: García-Vergara Cristina , Hennawi Joseph F. , Felipe Barrientos L. , Rix Hans-Walter
Published: October 2017

In the standard picture of structure formation, the first massive galaxies are expected to form at the highest peaks of the density field, which constitute the cores of massive proto-clusters. Luminous quasars (QSOs) at z ∼ 4 are the most strongly clustered population known, and should thus reside in massive dark matter halos surrounded by large overdensities of galaxies, implying a strong QSO–galaxy cross-correlation function. We observed six z ∼ 4 QSO fields with VLT/FORS, exploiting a novel set of narrow-band filters custom designed to select Lyman Break Galaxies (LBGs) in a thin redshift slice of

, mitigating the projection effects that have limited the sensitivity of previous searches for galaxies around

QSOs. We find that LBGs are strongly clustered around QSOs, and present the first measurement of the QSO–LBG cross-correlation function at z ∼ 4, on scales of

(comoving). Assuming a power-law form for the cross-correlation function

, we measure

for a fixed slope of

. This result is in agreement with the expected cross-correlation length deduced from measurements of the QSO and LBG auto-correlation function, and assuming a deterministic bias model. We also measure a strong auto-correlation of LBGs in our QSO fields, finding

for a fixed slope of

, which is ∼4 times larger than the LBG auto-correlation length in blank fields, providing further evidence that QSOs reside in overdensities of LBGs. Our results qualitatively support a picture where luminous QSOs inhabit exceptionally massive (

) dark matter halos at z ∼ 4.
Le masque comme enveloppe
Authors: Jourdan-Peyrony Jessica , Pommier François
Published: October 2017

Créer des masques à partir de l’empreinte du visage avec des adolescents au fonctionnement limite en institution psychiatrique permet de relancer un processus de subjectivation. Cette médiation accueille des projections identifiantes sur des supports concrets, les thérapeutes et le cadre. Confection, création imaginaire et mise en jeu scénique font travailler la dimension corporelle et groupale, la constitution des enveloppes psychiques et leur renfort, en écho aux interactions précoces.
Les balafres identitaires
Authors: Fellak Samir
Published: October 2017

L’absence ou la porosité des liens aux objets de l’enfance fissure, chez l’adolescent, la potentialité identificatoire et plonge celui-ci dans un insoutenable et inquiétant sentiment d’étrangeté du Moi. Le dispositif psychothérapique permet au patient d’exprimer sa haine à l’endroit de la mère ou du père, dans une relation de transfert sur le psychanalyste donnant une possibilité de rencontre à un autre, identifié comme « étranger », suffisamment différent (sexuellement) et différencié (narcissiquement).
Entre coupure et rupture
Authors: Votadoro Pablo
Published: October 2017

Considérant la valeur signifiante des symboles mobilisés dans les blessures auto-infligées des adolescents, leur fonction anthropologique permet d’accéder à ce qui, derrière la purification et le sacrifice, renvoie à la perte. Or, à l’adolescence, les mouvements autour de la désaffiliation peuvent se trouver aux prises d’angoisses de Rien, conjuguant perte et déréliction. En les figurant sur la scène clinique par des lésions, l’imploration en acte s’associe à l’emprise pour produire une catharsis.
Être élève, l’identité en question
Authors: Bosc Manon
Published: October 2017

Cet article part du cas d’un lycéen qui refuse l’enseignement qui lui est donné, et montre comment ce refus peut être sous-tendu par la nécessité de préserver une identité qui se sent mise en question par l’enseignement proféré. Il s’agira de montrer dans quelle mesure la transmission enseignante peut engager pour celui qui la reçoit une réorganisation de l’identité, dont l’originalité se trouve ainsi problématisée.
La défense par l’absurde
Authors: Givre Philippe
Published: October 2017

L’auteur met en exergue la propension des adolescents à utiliser la première phase du travail thérapeutique pour dénoncer des circonstances personnelles ou familiales qui ont pu remettre en question une qualité d’étayage identificatoire dont ils avaient pu bénéficier précédemment. Au-delà du trouble identificatoire induit par la sexualisation des identifications à l’adolescence, cette mise à mal de la fonction identificatoire va induire simultanément une rencontre beaucoup trop précoce avec l’absurde.
Utilización de técnicas petrográficas para evaluar los efectos inducidos del NaCl, condiciones climáticas extremas y el paso del tráfico en las superficies de las carreteras españolas
Authors: Pérez-Fortes A. P. , Varas-Muriel M. J. , Castiñeiras P.
Published: October 2017

Las capas de rodadura son las más expuestas al clima y al efecto del tráfico, especialmente en carreteras sometidas a mantenimiento invernal. Por este motivo, es importante conocer mejor los mecanismos de deterioro de dichas capas a la hora de mejorar su diseño, construcción y uso a largo plazo. Con este fin, dos tipos de mezclas asfálticas utilizadas en el NO de España fueron expuestas a ensayos de durabilidad (heladicidad y choque térmico) con una solución saturada de NaCl. Después, se realizó el ensayo de pista y el material deteriorado y deformado resultante fue analizado mediante microscopia óptica de luz polarizada y de fluorescencia. Dicho análisis mostró que el principal responsable de la degradación de la mezcla fue la baja adhesión árido-betún. Esta degradación se concentró en el árido debido a que el ligante actuó como una pared impermeable. En consecuencia, la solución de NaCl pudo penetrar y degradar rápida e intensamente el árido.
De minces biographies. Circulation et créolisation d’histoires de saints. Brésil (Nordeste)
Authors: Clerc-Renaud Agnès
Published: October 2017

Cet article présente cinq brefs récits racontés par trois narratrices dans une localité de l’État du Ceará, impliquant deux sortes de protagonistes : des saints et des « prêtres saints ». En mobilisant les apports de travaux sur littérature orale régionale (Cavignac, Slater), il interroge notamment les modes de circulation de ces récits, leurs dimensions stéréotypées, la place de l’oralité vis-à-vis d’autres modes sociaux d’expression. L’analyse montre que, dans les hagiographies, les éléments biographiques sont réduits à des préambules. Les narrations portent avant tout soit sur des lieux extraordinaires (des villes ou des sanctuaires) qui en font des récits de fondation aux schémas narratifs récurrents et/ou sur des événements extraordinaires, les « miracles » dont ces formes sont indissociables. Enfin, les relations dégagées entre motifs narratifs, images visuelles (en deux ou trois dimensions) et pratiques cultuelles permettent de préciser comment la notion de « sainteté » est construite dans le quotidien par ce groupe social.
Récits de vie d’hommes politiques au Cameroun. Entre mythification et légitimation du pouvoir
Authors: Kalbé Yamo Théophile
Published: October 2017

Dans les milieux urbains au Cameroun, à travers les lieux de socialisation comme les salons de coiffure, les restaurants, les bars, les cafétérias, etc., circulent des récits de vie, des histoires que l’imaginaire prête aux hommes politiques, à des héros morts ou vivants. Ces performances orales qui s’expriment à travers l’évocation tantôt craintive, tantôt admirative des figures de la scène publique comme les hommes politiques et les stars, inscrivent ces personnalités dans la légende. Partant du lieu commun selon lequel le pouvoir ou la grandeur procède d’une onction particulière de l’invisible, l’affabulation légendaire auréole ces personnages d’une geste impressionnante et d’un être féerique. Les affabulateurs, en général des hagiographes, puisent l’essentiel des motifs dans l’oralité traditionnelle millénaire pour doter ces personnages « référentiels » d’une aura mythique. Ces récits de vie alimentent l’opinion et construisent des ancrages au niveau national qui participent de l’édification de l’identité camerounaise, cela en rapport avec l’histoire du pays qui célèbre encore le cinquantenaire de son indépendance et de la réunification de l’ensemble des peuples vivant autrefois comme des ethno-nations. Les récits de vie apparaissent alors comme une justification, une légitimation du rôle tenu ou de la place occupée par le personnage principal dans une société qui semble acquise à la logique de la prédestination.
Le mythe de Ser chez les Sakaos. Entre exploits et transgressions
Authors: Touati Benjamin
Published: October 2017

Les Sakaos, groupe de 2 000 personnes aujourd’hui christianisées habitant au nord-est de l’île d’Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu, n’ont conservé qu’un seul mythe ancien : le mythe de Ser. Ser est le fondateur de la coutume, le créateur de l’igname et, dans certaines versions, l’inventeur de la mort. Son histoire raconte l’ensemble de sa vie, de sa naissance, parfois magique, jusqu’à sa mort. À partir de quatre versions de ce mythe, toutes enregistrées dans le même village, cette étude propose une analyse : après avoir évoqué les pouvoirs magiques du héros, un intérêt tout particulier est porté aux agissements de Ser. Ce dernier, en effet, bien qu’accomplissant des actions créatrices, enfreint par moments des interdits ; il s’agit alors d’expliquer comment ces deux types d’agissements s’articulent entre eux.
Reconstructing Antibody Repertoires from Error-Prone Immunosequencing Reads
Authors: Shlemov Alexander , Bankevich Sergey , Bzikadze Andrey , Turchaninova Maria A. , Safonova Yana , Pevzner Pavel A.
Published: October 2017

Transforming error-prone immunosequencing datasets into Ab repertoires is a fundamental problem in immunogenomics, and a prerequisite for studies of immune responses. Although various repertoire reconstruction algorithms were released in the last 3 y, it remains unclear how to benchmark them and how to assess the accuracy of the reconstructed repertoires. We describe an accurate IgReC algorithm for constructing Ab repertoires from high-throughput immunosequencing datasets and a new framework for assessing the quality of reconstructed repertoires. Surprisingly, Ab repertoires constructed by IgReC from barcoded immunosequencing datasets in the blind mode (without using information about unique molecular identifiers) improved upon the repertoires constructed by the state-of-the-art tools that use barcoding. This finding suggests that IgReC may alleviate the need to generate repertoires using the barcoding technology (the workhorse of current immunogenomics efforts) because our computational approach to error correction of immunosequencing data is nearly as powerful as the experimental approach based on barcoding.
Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells Inhibit T Follicular Helper Cell Immune Response in Japanese Encephalitis Virus Infection
Authors: Wang Chong , Zhang Nan , Qi Luting , Yuan Jiaolong , Wang Ke , Wang Kunlun , Ma Sicong , Wang Haili , Lou Wenjuan , Hu Pingdong , Awais Muhammad , Cao Shengbo , Fu Zhen F. , Cui Min
Published: October 2017

Resolution of viral infections requires activation of innate cells to initiate and maintain adaptive immune responses. In this study, we examined Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) infection leading to acute encephalopathy depending on suppression of the adaptive immune responses mediated by innate cells. Infection with P3 strains of JEV enhanced myeloid-derived suppressor cell (MDSC) populations, and the survival rate of JEV-infected mice improved after MDSC depletion. Mechanically, P3-induced MDSCs suppressed CD4+ T cell immune responses, especially responses of T follicular helper (Tfh) cells, leading to decreased splenic B cells (CD19+) and blood plasma cells (CD19+CD138+) and reduced levels of total IgM and JEV-specific neutralizing Abs. Upon depleting P3-induced MDSCs in vivo, the Tfh cell population, B cells, plasma cells, and Ab production recovered. These findings provide unique insights regarding MDSC functions in mediating immune suppression via inhibiting Tfh cell responses and further impairing humoral immunity, which facilitate the progression of infection.
NetMHCpan-4.0: Improved Peptide–MHC Class I Interaction Predictions Integrating Eluted Ligand and Peptide Binding Affinity Data
Authors: Jurtz Vanessa , Paul Sinu , Andreatta Massimo , Marcatili Paolo , Peters Bjoern , Nielsen Morten
Published: October 2017

Cytotoxic T cells are of central importance in the immune system’s response to disease. They recognize defective cells by binding to peptides presented on the cell surface by MHC class I molecules. Peptide binding to MHC molecules is the single most selective step in the Ag-presentation pathway. Therefore, in the quest for T cell epitopes, the prediction of peptide binding to MHC molecules has attracted widespread attention. In the past, predictors of peptide–MHC interactions have primarily been trained on binding affinity data. Recently, an increasing number of MHC-presented peptides identified by mass spectrometry have been reported containing information about peptide-processing steps in the presentation pathway and the length distribution of naturally presented peptides. In this article, we present NetMHCpan-4.0, a method trained on binding affinity and eluted ligand data leveraging the information from both data types. Large-scale benchmarking of the method demonstrates an increase in predictive performance compared with state-of-the-art methods when it comes to identification of naturally processed ligands, cancer neoantigens, and T cell epitopes.
Управляемость влечeт перемешивание. I. Сходимость в метрике полной вариации
Authors: Shirikyan Armen Rafikovich
Published: October 2017

Настоящая статья является первой частью проекта, посвящeнного исследованию взаимосвязи между свойствами управляемости динамической системы и асимптотикой траекторий при больших временах для ассоциированной стохастической системы. Доказывается, что аппроксимативная управляемость к некоторой точке и устойчивая управляемость из той же точки влекут единственность стационарной меры и экспоненциальное перемешивание по метрике полной вариации. Полученный результат применяется к случайным дифференциальным уравнениям на компактном римановом многообразии. Во второй части проекта устойчивая управляемость заменяется некоторым условием стабилизируемости и доказывается, что эти условия также обеспечивают единственность стационарной меры, тогда как сходимость к ней имеет место в более слабой, липшиц-дуальной метрике.
Библиография: 21 название.
Psychological Results of 438 Patients with persisting Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Symptoms by Symptom Checklist 90-Revised Questionnaire
Authors: Chen Xia , Li Ping , Wang Fei , Ji Guozhong , Miao Lin , You Sihong
Published: October 2017

Aims and objectives

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects mental state and social activities. On the contrary, mental disorders may also play a crucial role in GERD symptoms. The purpose of the study was to analyze the data of Symptom Checklist 90-Revised (SCL-90-R) questionnaire from patients with persisting GERD and to explore the impact of psychological factors on them.

Materials and methods

The patients accepted SCL-90-R questionnaire survey, following endoscopy, high-resolution manometry (HRM), and ambulatory impedance-pH monitoring. Based on these results, we divided patients into different groups. The result of SCL-90-R was also compared with degree of acid reflux, symptoms, symptom duration, and gender.

Results

The data from 438 patients were analyzed. All patients were divided into reflux esophagitis (RE; 63, 14.38%); nonerosive gastroesophageal reflux disease (NERD; 106, 24.20%); functional heartburn (FH; 123, 28.08%), hypersensitive esophagus (HE; 67, 15.29%), diffuse esophageal spasm (DES; 5: 1.14%), hypertensive (10, 3.42%); weak peristalsis (14, 3.20%); achalasia (50, 11.42%). There were significant differences between different groups regarding depression (DEP), anxiety (ANX), paranoid ideation (PAR), and psychoticism (PSY). The patients with ≥2 years with GERD presented with increased scores in DEP, ANX, and PSY. Women had dramatically higher scores than men in each domain (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Data have shown that GERD patients exhibit differential levels of psychological symptoms. Long duration of GERD was related to typical plus atypical symptoms and females seem to be more prone to develop psychological disorders.

How to cite this article

Chen X, Li P, Wang F, Ji G, Miao L, You S. Psychological Results of 438 Patients with persisting Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Symptoms by Symptom Checklist 90-Revised Questionnaire. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2017;7(2):117-121.
Hepatic Metastasis from Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Valderrama-Treviño Alan I , Barrera-Mera Baltazar , Ceballos-Villalva Jesús C , Montalvo-Javé Eduardo E
Published: October 2017

The liver is the most common site of metastasis in patients with colorectal cancer due to its anatomical situation regarding its portal circulation. About 14 to 18% of patients with colorectal cancer present metastasis at the first medical consultation, and 10 to 25% at the time of the resection of the primary colorectal cancer. The incidence is higher (35%) when a computed tomography (CT) scan is used.

In the last decades, a significant increase in the life expectancy of patients with colorectal cancer has been achieved with different diagnostic and treatment programs. Despite these improvements, the presence of metastasis, disease recurrence, and advanced local tumors continue to remain poor prognostic factors.

Median survival without treatment is <8 months from the moment of its presentation, and a survival rate at 5 years of 11% is the best prognosis for those who present with local metastasis. Even in patients with limited metastatic disease, 5-year survival is exceptional. Patients with hepatic metastasis of colorectal cancer have a median survival of 5 to 20 months with no treatment. Approximately 20 to 30% of patients with colorectal metastasis have disease confined to the liver, and this can be managed with surgery. Modern surgical strategies at the main hepatobiliary centers have proved that hepatectomy of 70% of the liver can be performed, with a mortality rate of <5%.

It is very important to have knowledge of predisposing factors, diagnostic methods, and treatment of hepatic metastasis. However, the establishment of newer, efficient, preventive screening programs for early diagnosis and adequate treatment is vital.

How to cite this article

Valderrama-Treviño AI, Barrera-Mera B, Ceballos-Villalva JC, Montalvo-Javé EE. Hepatic Metastasis from Colorectal Cancer. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2017;7(2):166-175.
Aneurysm of Portosystemic Fistula: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Ulus Sila , Akan Gulhan Ertan , Erol Cengiz
Published: October 2017

Aim

A case of asymptomatic aneurysm of spontaneous portosystemic venous fistula (SPVF) with the radiologic findings is described.

Background

Although advances and more widespread use of ultrasound (US) and computed tomography angiography (CTA) have enabled more detection of SPVF in the liver, it is a rare entity.

Case report

A 49-year-old male was referred to our hospital's nephrology outpatient clinic due to hypertension. Abdominal sonography examination detected a well-defined cystic lesion adjacent to the middle hepatic vein in the liver. The lesion showed venous flow in the color Doppler US examination. Computed tomography angiography examination revealed an aneurysm of the fistula.

Conclusion

Radiologists should be aware of this vascular anomaly and cyst-like lesions in the liver should be examined with color Doppler ultrasonography for possible vascularization, and be differentiated with CTA if necessary.

Clinical significance

This condition is usually encountered incidentally and patients usually have no symptoms. However, severe complications, such as hepatopulmonary syndrome, liver tumors, encephalopathy, and heart failure can be seen.

How to cite this article

Ulus S, Akan GE, Erol C. Aneurysm of Portosystemic Fistula: A Case Report and Review of Literature. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2017;7(2):178-180.
Long Esophageal Stricture in a Brittle Diabetic
Authors: Pak Stella C , Alastal Yaseen , Darr Umar , Yoon Youngsook
Published: October 2017

Aim

We report a case of atypical esophageal stricture in a young diabetic woman.

Background

Diabetes mellitus and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are two common disorders in modern society.

Case report

A young diabetic woman developed a 6-cm-long esophageal stricture. This stricture was refractory to multiple esophageal dilation procedures. She underwent subtotal esophagectomy and had excellent treatment outcome.

Conclusion

Gastroesophageal reflux disease can cause severe long esophageal stricture in a brittle diabetic.

Clinical significance

Improving the awareness of their association between diabetes and GERD would greatly benefit the day-to-day practice of medicine.

How to cite this article

Pak SC, Darr U, Alastal Y, Yoon Y. Long Esophageal Stricture in a Brittle Diabetic. Euroasian J Hepato-Gastroenterol 2017;7(2):191-192.