bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abnormally Increased Secretion in Olfactory Neuronal Precursors from a Case of Schizophrenia Is Modulated by Melatonin: A Pilot Study
Authors: Cercós Montserrat , Galván-Arrieta Tania , Valdés-Tovar Marcela , Solís-Chagoyán Héctor , Argueta Jesús , Benítez-King Gloria , Trueta Citlali
Published: July 2017

The alterations that underlie the pathophysiology of schizophrenia (SCZ) include the dysregulation of structural and functional properties of neurons. Among these, the secretion of neurotransmitters and hormones, which plays a key role for neuronal communication and development, is altered. Neuronal precursors from the human olfactory epithelium have been recently characterized as a reliable model for studying the etiopathogenesis of neuropsychiatric diseases. Our previous work has shown that melatonin enhances the development of morphological and functional features of cloned olfactory neuronal precursors (ONPs) from a healthy subject. In this work we found that primary cultures of ONPs obtained from a schizophrenic patient display an increased potassium-evoked secretion, when compared with ONPs from an age- and gender-matched healthy control subject (HCS). Secretion was evaluated by FM1-43 fluorescence cumulative changes in response to depolarization. Interestingly, a 12 h-melatonin treatment modulated the abnormally increased secretion in SCZ ONPs and brought it to levels similar to those found in the HCS ONPs. Our results suggest that the actin cytoskeleton might be a target for melatonin effects, since it induces the thickening of actin microfilament bundles. Further research will address the mechanisms by which melatonin modulates neurochemical secretion from ONPs.
Glycosaminoglycans Regulate CXCR3 Ligands at Distinct Levels: Protection against Processing by Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV/CD26 and Interference with Receptor Signaling
Authors: Metzemaekers Mieke , Mortier Anneleen , Janssens Rik , Boff Daiane , Vanbrabant Lotte , Lamoen Nicole , Van Damme Jo , Teixeira Mauro , De Meester Ingrid , Amaral Flávio , Proost Paul
Published: July 2017

CXC chemokine ligand (CXCL)9, CXCL10 and CXCL11 direct chemotaxis of mainly T cells and NK cells through activation of their common CXC chemokine receptor (CXCR)3. They are inactivated upon NH2-terminal cleavage by dipeptidyl peptidase IV/CD26. In the present study, we found that different glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) protect the CXCR3 ligands against proteolytic processing by CD26 without directly affecting the enzymatic activity of CD26. In addition, GAGs were shown to interfere with chemokine-induced CXCR3 signaling. The observation that heparan sulfate did not, and heparin only moderately, altered CXCL10-induced T cell chemotaxis in vitro may be explained by a combination of protection against proteolytic inactivation and altered receptor interaction as observed in calcium assays. No effect of CD26 inhibition was found on CXCL10-induced chemotaxis in vitro. However, treatment of mice with the CD26 inhibitor sitagliptin resulted in an enhanced CXCL10-induced lymphocyte influx into the joint. This study reveals a dual role for GAGs in modulating the biological activity of CXCR3 ligands. GAGs protect the chemokines from proteolytic cleavage but also directly interfere with chemokine–CXCR3 signaling. These data support the hypothesis that both GAGs and CD26 affect the in vivo chemokine function.
Understanding the Role of Non-Coding RNAs in Bladder Cancer: From Dark Matter to Valuable Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Pop-Bica Cecilia , Gulei Diana , Cojocneanu-Petric Roxana , Braicu Cornelia , Petrut Bogdan , Berindan-Neagoe Ioana
Published: July 2017

The mortality and morbidity that characterize bladder cancer compel this malignancy into the category of hot topics in terms of biomolecular research. Therefore, a better knowledge of the specific molecular mechanisms that underlie the development and progression of bladder cancer is demanded. Tumor heterogeneity among patients with similar diagnosis, as well as intratumor heterogeneity, generates difficulties in terms of targeted therapy. Furthermore, late diagnosis represents an ongoing issue, significantly reducing the response to therapy and, inevitably, the overall survival. The role of non-coding RNAs in bladder cancer emerged in the last decade, revealing that microRNAs (miRNAs) may act as tumor suppressor genes, respectively oncogenes, but also as biomarkers for early diagnosis. Regarding other types of non-coding RNAs, especially long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) which are extensively reviewed in this article, their exact roles in tumorigenesis are—for the time being—not as evident as in the case of miRNAs, but, still, clearly suggested. Therefore, this review covers the non-coding RNA expression profile of bladder cancer patients and their validated target genes in bladder cancer cell lines, with repercussions on processes such as proliferation, invasiveness, apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and other molecular pathways which are specific for the malignant transformation of cells.
Synthesis and In Vitro (Anticancer) Evaluation of η6-Arene Ruthenium Complexes Bearing Stannyl Ligands
Authors: Renier Olivier , Deacon-Price Connor , Peters Joannes , Nurekeyeva Kunsulu , Russon Catherine , Dyson Simba , Ngubane Siyabonga , Baumgartner Judith , Dyson Paul , Riedel Tina , Chiririwa Haleden , Blom Burgert
Published: July 2017

Treatment of the known half-sandwich complexes of the type [(η6-C6H6)RuCl2(P(OR)3)] (R = Me or Ph) with SnCl2 yielded three new half-sandwich ruthenium complexes (C1–C3): [(η6-C6H6)RuCl(SnCl3)(P(OMe)3)] (C1), [(η6-C6H6)RuCl(SnCl3)(P(OPh)3)] (C2) and the bis-stannyl complex [(η6-C6H6)Ru(SnCl3)2(P(OMe)3)] (C3) by facile insertion of SnCl2 into the Ru–Cl bonds. Treatment of the known complexes [(η6-C6H6)RuCl(SnCl3)(PPh3)] and [(η6-C6H6)RuCl2(PPh3)] with 4-dimethylaminopyridine (DAMP) and ammonium tetrafluoroborate afforded the complex salts: [(η6-C6H6)Ru(SnCl3)(PPh3)(DAMP)]+BF4− (C4) and [(η6-C6H6)RuCl(PPh3)(DAMP)]+BF4− (C5) respectively. Complexes C1–C5 have been fully characterized by spectroscopic means (IR, UV–vis, multinuclear NMR, ESI–MS) and their thermal behaviour elucidated by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). Structural characterization by single crystal X-ray crystallography of the novel complex C2 and [(η6-C6H6)RuCl2(P(OPh)3)], the latter having escaped elucidation by this method, is also reported. Finally, the cytotoxicity of the complexes was determined on the A2780 (human ovarian cancer), A2780cisR (human ovarian cis-platin-resistant cancer), and the HEK293 (human embryonic kidney) cell lines and discussed, and an attempt is made to elucidate the effect of the stannyl ligand on cytotoxicity.
A PDE-Free Variational Method for Multi-Phase Image Segmentation Based on Multiscale Sparse Representations
Authors: Dobrosotskaya Julia , Guo Weihong
Published: July 2017

We introduce a variational model for multi-phase image segmentation that uses a multiscale sparse representation frame (wavelets or other) in a modified diffuse interface context. The segmentation model we present differs from other state-of-the-art models in several ways. The diffusive nature of the method originates from the sparse representations and thus propagates information in a different manner comparing to any existing PDE models, allowing one to combine the advantages of non-local information processing with sharp edges in the output. The regularizing part of the model is based on the wavelet Ginzburg–Landau (WGL) functional, and the fidelity part consists of two terms: one ensures the mean square proximity of the output to the original image; the other takes care of preserving the main edge set. Multiple numerical experiments show that the model is robust to noise yet can preserve the edge information. This method outperforms the algorithms from other classes in cases of images with significant presence of noise or highly uneven illumination
Fluid Ability (Gf) and Complex Problem Solving (CPS)
Authors: Kyllonen Patrick , Anguiano Carrasco Cristina , Kell Harrison
Published: July 2017

Complex problem solving (CPS) has emerged over the past several decades as an important construct in education and in the workforce. We examine the relationship between CPS and general fluid ability (Gf) both conceptually and empirically. A review of definitions of the two factors, prototypical tasks, and the information processing analyses of performance on those tasks suggest considerable conceptual overlap. We review three definitions of CPS: a general definition emerging from the human problem solving literature; a more specialized definition from the “German School” emphasizing performance in many-variable microworlds, with high domain-knowledge requirements; and a third definition based on performance in Minimal Complex Systems (MCS), with fewer variables and reduced knowledge requirements. We find a correlation of 0.86 between expert ratings of the importance of CPS and Gf across 691 occupations in the O*NET database. We find evidence that employers value both Gf and CPS skills, but CPS skills more highly, even after controlling for the importance of domain knowledge. We suggest that this may be due to CPS requiring not just cognitive ability but additionally skill in applying that ability in domains. We suggest that a fruitful future direction is to explore the importance of domain knowledge in CPS.
Erratum: Viet Nguyen, L., Tateishi, R., Kondoh, A., Sharma, R.C., Thanh Nguyen, H., Trong To, T. and Ho Tong Minh, D. (2016). Mapping Tropical Forest Biomass by Combining ALOS-2, Landsat 8, and Field Plots Data. Land, 5(4), 31.
Authors: Viet Nguyen Luong , Tateishi Ryutaro , Kondoh Akihiko , Sharma Ram , Thanh Nguyen Hoan , Trong To Tu , Ho Tong Minh Dinh
Published: July 2017

The authors would like to correct the following errors in Figure 1 in [1]: In the original publication data source is wrong in “Figure 1. [...]
Variation of Structure and Photoluminescence Properties of Ce3+ Doped MgAlON Transparent Ceramics with Different Doping Content
Authors: Liu Xin , Chen Bowen , Tu Bingtian , Wang Hao , Wang Weimin , Fu Zhengyi
Published: July 2017

Transparent MgAlON:Ce fluorescent ceramics with doping content of 0.005, 0.01, and 0.02 at % were fabricated by pressureless sintering. All the samples were dense and large in grain size. Under the excitation of 320 nm UV, the samples emitted blue lights centered around 410 nm. The 0.005 and 0.01 at % Ce3+ doped samples were single phase by XRD detection, and possessed good optical and mechanical properties, and luminous thermal stability. The fluorescence lifetime, the CL and PL spectra analysis, indicated that most of the luminous centers were segregated in GB, and there was still a small part of second phase existing in 0.01 at % Ce3+ doped sample, which revealed that spectroscopy methods possessed better sensitivity in smaller scale and lower concentration detection than XRD. As the doping content increasing to 0.02 at %, a mass of second phase arose, which resulted in the optical transparency, mechanical property, luminous thermal stability decline, and the PL spectra red shift by the formation of second phase. It revealed that the performances were fatally deteriorated by excess doping of Ce3+ ions.
Investigation on Deformation Mechanisms of NiTi Shape Memory Alloy Tube under Radial Loading
Authors: Jiang Shuyong , Yu Junbo , Hu Li , Zhang Yanqiu
Published: July 2017

NiTi shape memory alloy (SMA) tube was coupled with mild steel cylinder in order to investigate deformation mechanisms of NiTi SMA tubes undergoing radial loading. NiTi SMA tubes of interest deal with two kinds of nominal compositions; namely, Ni-50 at % Ti and Ni-49.1 at % Ti, where at room temperature, B19′ martensite is dominant in the former, and B2 austensite is complete in the latter. The mechanics of the NiTi SMA tube during radial loading were analyzed based on elastic mechanics and plastic yield theory, where effective stress and effective strain are determined as two important variables that investigate deformation mechanisms of the NiTi SMA tube during radial loading. As for the NiTi SMA tube with austenite structure, stress-induced martensite (SIM) transformation as well as plastic deformation of SIM occur with the continuous increase of effective stress. As for NiTi SMA tube which possesses martensite structure, reorientation and detwinning of twinned martensite as well as plastic deformation of reoriented and detwinned martensite occur with the continuous increase in the effective stress. Plastic deformation for dislocation slip has a negative impact on superelasticity and shape memory effect of NiTi SMA tube.
Natural Product Discovery Using Planes of Principal Component Analysis in R (PoPCAR)
Authors: Chanana Shaurya , Thomas Chris , Braun Doug , Hou Yanpeng , Wyche Thomas , Bugni Tim
Published: July 2017

Rediscovery of known natural products hinders the discovery of new, unique scaffolds. Efforts have mostly focused on streamlining the determination of what compounds are known vs. unknown (dereplication), but an alternative strategy is to focus on what is different. Utilizing statistics and assuming that common actinobacterial metabolites are likely known, focus can be shifted away from dereplication and towards discovery. LC-MS-based principal component analysis (PCA) provides a perfect tool to distinguish unique vs. common metabolites, but the variability inherent within natural products leads to datasets that do not fit ideal standards. To simplify the analysis of PCA models, we developed a script that identifies only those masses or molecules that are unique to each strain within a group, thereby greatly reducing the number of data points to be inspected manually. Since the script is written in R, it facilitates integration with other metabolomics workflows and supports automated mass matching to databases such as Antibase.
PES/POSS Soluble Veils as Advanced Modifiers for Multifunctional Fiber Reinforced Composites
Authors: Cicala Gianluca , Blanco Ignazio , Latteri Alberta , Ognibene Giulia , Agatino Bottino Francesco , Fragalà Maria
Published: July 2017

Novel polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS)-filled thermoplastic electrospun veils were used to tailor the properties of the interlaminar region of epoxy-based composites. The veils were designed to be soluble upon curing in the epoxy matrix, so that POSS could be released within the interlaminar region. Three different POSS contents, varying from 1 to 10 wt %, were tested while the percentage of coPolyethersulphone (coPES) dissolved in the epoxy resin was kept to a fixed value of 10 wt %. Good quality veils could be obtained at up to 10 wt % of POSS addition, with the nanofibers’ diameters varying from 861 nm for the coPES to 428 nm upon POSS addition. The feasibility of the soluble veils to disperse POSS in the interlaminar region was proved, and the effect of POSS on phase morphology and viscoelastic properties studied. POSS was demonstrated to significantly affect the morphology and viscoelastic properties of epoxy composites, especially for the percentages 1% and 5%, which enabled the composites to avoid POSS segregates occurring. A dynamic mechanical analysis showed a significant improvement to the storage modulus, and a shift of more than 30 °C due to the POSS cages hindering the motion of the molecular chains and network junctions.
Christians’ Perceptions of Receiving Spiritual Care in the Bible Belt of the United States: A Qualitative Study of Care Provided in the Healthcare Setting
Authors: McDowell Liz , South Robbie
Published: July 2017

The need to include the spiritual dimension when assessing clients and planning their healthcare is evident from numerous studies conducted by various disciplines. Practitioners of holistic care agree that spiritual care must be included to address fully the needs of clients. The aim of this qualitative research was to explore and document the stories of clients regarding the role healthcare professionals provide in spiritual care. A hermeneutical phenomenological approach was used to interview, document, and analyze the stories of 15 participants (n = 15) regarding their perceptions of spiritual care received or given during times of illness. Initially, only one participant mentioned the role of doctors and nurses in providing spiritual care. After specifically asking about spiritual care, half of the participants shared that they had received spiritual care. Prayer as a mode of spiritual care emerged as a prominent theme. Lack of spiritual care received was documented. The hesitancy to provide spiritual care was evident in participants who were also healthcare providers. More research is needed to further define spiritual care. Education regarding spiritual assessments and spiritual care strategies is needed for both patients and healthcare providers.
Modelling Shadow Using 3D Tree Models in High Spatial and Temporal Resolution
Authors: Rosskopf Elena , Morhart Christopher , Nahm Michael
Published: July 2017

Information about the availability of solar irradiance for crops is of high importance for improving management practices of agricultural ecosystems such as agroforestry systems (AFS). Hence, the development of a high-resolution model that allows for the quantification of tree shading on a diurnal and annual time scale is highly demanded to generate realistic estimations of the shading dynamics in a given AFS. We describe an approach using 3D data derived from a terrestrial laser scanner and the steps undertaken to develop a vector-based model that quantifies and visualizes the shadow cast by single trees at daily, monthly, seasonal or annual levels with the input of cylinder-based tree models. It is able to compute the shadow of given tree models in time intervals of 10 min. To simulate seasonal growth and shedding of leaves, ellipsoids as replacement for leaves can be added to the tips of the tree model’s branches. The shadow model is flexible in its input of location (latitude, longitude), tree architecture and temporal resolution. Due to the possibility to feed this model with factual climate data such as cloud covers, it represents the first 3D tree model that enables the user to retrospectively analyze the shadow regime below a given tree, and to quantify shadow-related developments in AFS.
Effect of Distributed Mass on the Node, Frequency, and Sensitivity of Resonant-Mode Based Cantilevers
Authors: Zhang Kewei , Zhu Qianke , Chen Zhe
Published: July 2017

We derived an analytical expression for a resonant-mode based bi-layered cantilever with distributed mass load. The behavior of mode of vibration, nodal position, frequency shift, as well as sensitivity under different mass load distributions was theoretically studied. The theoretical results suggested that asymmetric mass load distribution leads to the shift of nodes as well as the sensitive regions of a resonant-mode based cantilever. n − 1 local maximal sensitivities and n − 1 local minimal sensitivities are observed when the cantilever vibrates in the nth-order resonance. The maximal sensitivity is found at the first local maximal sensitivity and the behavior of mass load length as a function of the maximal sensitivity follows the rule of an exponent decaying function. The sensitivity increases as the load mass increases for the same mass load distribution, but the corresponding slopes are different.
The Application of Whole Cell-Based Biosensors for Use in Environmental Analysis and in Medical Diagnostics
Authors: Gui Qingyuan , Lawson Tom , Shan Suyan , Yan Lu , Liu Yong
Published: July 2017

Various whole cell-based biosensors have been reported in the literature for the last 20 years and these reports have shown great potential for their use in the areas of pollution detection in environmental and in biomedical diagnostics. Unlike other reviews of this growing field, this mini-review argues that: (1) the selection of reporter genes and their regulatory proteins are directly linked to the performance of celllular biosensors; (2) broad enhancements in microelectronics and information technologies have also led to improvements in the performance of these sensors; (3) their future potential is most apparent in their use in the areas of medical diagnostics and in environmental monitoring; and (4) currently the most promising work is focused on the better integration of cellular sensors with nano and micro scaled integrated chips. With better integration it may become practical to see these cells used as (5) real-time portable devices for diagnostics at the bedside and for remote environmental toxin detection and this in situ application will make the technology commonplace and thus as unremarkable as other ubiquitous technologies.
An Analysis of the Most Adopted Rating Systems for Assessing the Environmental Impact of Buildings
Authors: Bernardi Elena , Carlucci Salvatore , Cornaro Cristina , Bohne Rolf
Published: July 2017

Rating systems for assessing the environmental impact of buildings are technical instruments that aim to evaluate the environmental impact of buildings and construction projects. In some cases, these rating systems can also cover urban-scale projects, community projects, and infrastructures. These schemes are designed to assist project management in making the projects more sustainable by providing frameworks with precise criteria for assessing the various aspects of a building’s environmental impact. Given the growing interest in sustainable development worldwide, many rating systems for assessing the environmental impact of buildings have been established in recent years, each one with its peculiarities and fields of applicability. The present work is motivated by an interest in emphasizing such differences to better understand these rating systems and extract the main implications to building design. It also attempts to summarize in a user-friendly form the vast and fragmented assortment of information that is available today. The analysis focuses on the six main rating systems: the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology (BREEAM), the Comprehensive Assessment System for Built Environment Efficiency (CASBEE), the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Nachhaltiges Bauen (DGNB), the Haute Qualité Environnementale (HQETM), the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), and the Sustainable Building Tool (SBTool).
Model to Implement Virtual Computing Labs via Cloud Computing Services
Authors: Encalada Washington , Sequera José
Published: July 2017

In recent years, we have seen a significant number of new technological ideas appearing in literature discussing the future of education. For example, E-learning, cloud computing, social networking, virtual laboratories, virtual realities, virtual worlds, massive open online courses (MOOCs), and bring your own device (BYOD) are all new concepts of immersive and global education that have emerged in educational literature. One of the greatest challenges presented to e-learning solutions is the reproduction of the benefits of an educational institution’s physical laboratory. For a university without a computing lab, to obtain hands-on IT training with software, operating systems, networks, servers, storage, and cloud computing similar to that which could be received on a university campus computing lab, it is necessary to use a combination of technological tools. Such teaching tools must promote the transmission of knowledge, encourage interaction and collaboration, and ensure students obtain valuable hands-on experience. That, in turn, allows the universities to focus more on teaching and research activities than on the implementation and configuration of complex physical systems. In this article, we present a model for implementing ecosystems which allow universities to teach practical Information Technology (IT) skills. The model utilizes what is called a “social cloud”, which utilizes all cloud computing services, such as Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). Additionally, it integrates the cloud learning aspects of a MOOC and several aspects of social networking and support. Social clouds have striking benefits such as centrality, ease of use, scalability, and ubiquity, providing a superior learning environment when compared to that of a simple physical lab. The proposed model allows students to foster all the educational pillars such as learning to know, learning to be, learning to live together, and, primarily, learning to do, through hands-on IT training from a MOOCs. An aspect of the model has been verified experimentally and statistically through a course of computer operating systems.
Black Holes: Eliminating Information or Illuminating New Physics?
Authors: Chakraborty Sumanta , Lochan Kinjalk
Published: July 2017

Black holes, initially thought of as very interesting mathematical and geometric solutions of general relativity, over time, have come up with surprises and challenges for modern physics. In modern times, they have started to test our confidence in the fundamental understanding of nature. The most serious charge on the black holes is that they eat up information, never to release and subsequently erase it. This goes absolutely against the sacred principles of all other branches of fundamental sciences. This realization has shaken the very base of foundational concepts, both in quantum theory and gravity, which we always took for granted. Attempts to get rid of of this charge, have led us to crossroads with concepts, hold dearly in quantum theory. The sphere of black hole’s tussle with quantum theory has readily and steadily grown, from the advent of the Hawking radiation some four decades back, into domain of quantum information theory in modern times, most aptly, recently put in the form of the firewall puzzle. Do black holes really indicate something sinister about their existence or do they really point towards the troubles of ignoring the fundamental issues, our modern theories are seemingly plagued with? In this review, we focus on issues pertaining to black hole evaporation, the development of the information loss paradox, its recent formulation, the leading debates and promising directions in the community.
La Charte cinq ans après : chronique d’un réveil en fanfare
Authors: Huten Nicolas , Cohendet Marie-Anne
Published: July 2017

Près de cinq ans après l’entrée en vigueur de la Charte, les Hautes Juridictions ont franchi une étape importante en appliquant clairement et directement les droits et les principes constitutionnels qu’elle reconnaît. En 2008, pour la première fois, le Conseil constitutionnel a censuré partiellement une loi contraire à la Charte et le Conseil d’Etat lui a emboîté le pas en annulant un décret qui ne respectait pas ce texte constitutionnel. Le juge administratif a également constaté l’abrogation implicite d’une loi antérieure à la Charte et qui lui était contraire. Enfin, l’application de la Charte à travers le prisme des dispositions législatives qui la mettent en oeuvre apparaît désormais comme renforçant son effectivité. Cette jurisprudence met à juste titre un terme aux interprétations stérilisantes de la Charte. Son impact sur la protection de l’environnement est encore limité mais la voie est ouverte pour une garantie plus effective des droits fondamentaux des citoyens.
Le droit international de l’environnement : 2005-2009. Une toile d’araignée pour une grosse bête noire
Authors: Sohnle Jochen
Published: July 2017

La présente chronique de droit international de l’environnement couvre des événements intervenus de 2005 à 2009. Alors que la fréquence des traités adoptés dans cette spécialité diminue sensiblement, le droit dérivé, généré à la fois par des quasi-organisations internationales (les conférences des parties) et des organisations internationales classiques, gagne en importance, y compris sur le plan qualitatif grâce à l’établissement de liens normatifs chaque fois plus denses entre les différents systèmes protecteurs de l’environnement. Aussi les nouveautés intervenues dans les différentes spécialités juridiques, s’occupant notamment de l’eau douce, du milieu marin, du climat, de la biodiversité, des produits dangereux, de l’Antarctique, de la responsabilité environnementale, ne seront-elles pas seulement vues d’une manière isolée, mais aussi placées dans un contexte relationnel plus vaste. Le droit international de l’environnement qui en résulte commence à ressembler à une toile d’araignée.
Les juridictions pénales britanniques et françaises face aux anti-OGM : au-delà des différences, une communauté d’esprit
Authors: Bodiguel Luc , Cardwell Michael
Published: July 2017

Vivement contestées depuis plus de dix ans, les cultures d’organismes génétiquement modifiés à des fins alimentaires font l’objet de destructions quasi systématiques dans une grande partie des pays européens. Saisies, les juridictions pénales ont dû décider si la loi devait être appliquée strictement, ce qui conduisait à une condamnation pénale, ou si l’action des auteurs de destruction des champs OGM pouvait être «légitimée » en tenant compte des connaissances et des incertitudes scientifiques ainsi que des considérations socio-politiques. Le présent article vise justement à analyser ces décisions pénales au Royaume-Uni et en France et à les comparer afin d’observer le positionnement des juges face au mouvement de désobéissance civile des «faucheurs » d’organismes génétiquement modifiés : entre «légalisme » et tolérance, il faut choisir !
Development of polycationic amphiphilic cyclodextrin nanoparticles for anticancer drug delivery
Authors: Varan Gamze , Benito Juan M , Mellet Carmen Ortiz , Bilensoy Erem
Published: July 2017

Background: Paclitaxel is a potent anticancer drug that is effective against a wide spectrum of cancers. To overcome its bioavailability problems arising from very poor aqueous solubility and tendency to recrystallize upon dilution, paclitaxel is commercially formulated with co-solvents such as Cremophor EL® that are known to cause serious side effects during chemotherapy. Amphiphilic cyclodextrins are favored oligosaccharides as drug delivery systems for anticancer drugs, having the ability to spontaneously form nanoparticles without surfactant or co-solvents. In the past few years, polycationic, amphiphilic cyclodextrins were introduced as effective agents for gene delivery in the form of nanoplexes. In this study, the potential of polycationic, amphiphilic cyclodextrin nanoparticles were evaluated in comparison to non-ionic amphiphilic cyclodextrins and core–shell type cyclodextrin nanoparticles for paclitaxel delivery to breast tumors. Pre-formulation studies were used as a basis for selecting the suitable organic solvent and surfactant concentration for the novel polycationic cyclodextrin nanoparticles. The nanoparticles were then extensively characterized with particle size distribution, polydispersity index, zeta potential, drug loading capacity, in vitro release profiles and cytotoxicity studies.

Results: Paclitaxel-loaded cyclodextrin nanoparticles were obtained in the diameter range of 80−125 nm (depending on the nature of the cyclodextrin derivative) where the smallest diameter nanoparticles were obtained with polycationic (PC) βCDC6. A strong positive charge also helped to increase the loading capacity of the nanoparticles with paclitaxel up to 60%. Interestingly, cyclodextrin nanoparticles were able to stabilize paclitaxel in aqueous solution for 30 days. All blank cyclodextrin nanoparticles were demonstrated to be non-cytotoxic against L929 mouse fibroblast cell line. In addition, paclitaxel-loaded nanoparticles have a significant anticancer effect against MCF-7 human breast cancer cell line as compared with a paclitaxel solution in DMSO.

Conclusion: According to the results of this study, both amphiphilic cyclodextrin derivatives provide suitable nanometer-sized drug delivery systems for safe and efficient intravenous paclitaxel delivery for chemotherapy. In the light of these studies, it can be said that amphiphilic cyclodextrin nanoparticles of different surface charge can be considered as a promising alternative for self-assembled nanometer-sized drug carrier systems for safe and efficient chemotherapy.
Framing major prebiotic transitions as stages of protocell development: three challenges for origins-of-life research
Authors: Shirt-Ediss Ben , Murillo-Sánchez Sara , Ruiz-Mirazo Kepa
Published: July 2017

Conceiving the process of biogenesis as the evolutionary development of highly dynamic and integrated protocell populations provides the most appropriate framework to address the difficult problem of how prebiotic chemistry bridged the gap to full-fledged living organisms on the early Earth. In this contribution we briefly discuss the implications of taking dynamic, functionally integrated protocell systems (rather than complex reaction networks in bulk solution, sets of artificially evolvable replicating molecules, or even these same replicating molecules encapsulated in passive compartments) as the proper units of prebiotic evolution. We highlight, in particular, how the organisational features of those chemically active and reactive protocells, at different stages of the process, would strongly influence their corresponding evolutionary capacities. As a result of our analysis, we suggest three experimental challenges aimed at constructing protocell systems made of a diversity of functionally coupled components and, thereby, at characterizing more precisely the type of prebiotic evolutionary dynamics that such protocells could engage in.
Genome‐Wide Screening for Lectin Motifs in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Eggermont Lore , Verstraeten Bruno , Van Damme Els J.M.
Published: July 2017

For more than three decades, Arabidopsis thaliana served as a model for plant biology research. At present only a few protein families have been studied in detail in Arabidopsis. This study focused on all sequences with lectin motifs in the genome of Arabidopsis. Based on amino acid sequence similarity (BLASTp searches), 217 putative lectin genes were retrieved belonging to 9 out of 12 different lectin families. The domain organization and genomic distribution for each lectin family were analyzed. Domain architecture analysis revealed that most of these lectin gene sequences are linked to other domains, often belonging to protein families with catalytic activity. Many protein domains identified are known to play a role in stress signaling and defense, suggesting a major contribution of the putative lectins in development and plant defense. This genome‐wide screen for different lectin motifs will help to unravel the functional characteristics of lectins. In addition, phylogenetic trees and WebLogos were created and showed that most lectin sequences that share the same domain architecture evolved together. Furthermore, the amino acids responsible for carbohydrate binding are largely conserved. Our results provide information about the evolutionary relationships and functional divergence of the lectin motifs in A. thaliana.
Debiasing the NEOWISE Cryogenic Mission Comet Populations
Authors: Bauer James M. , Grav Tommy , Fernández Yanga R. , Mainzer A. K. , Kramer Emily A. , Masiero Joseph R. , Spahr Timothy , Nugent C. R. , Stevenson Rachel A. , Meech Karen J. , Cutri Roc M. , Lisse Carey M. , Walker Russell , Dailey John W. , Rosser Joshua , Krings Phillip , Ruecker Kinjal , Wright Edward L. ,   the NEOWISE Team
Published: July 2017

We use NEOWISE data from the four-band and three-band cryogenic phases of the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer mission to constrain size distributions of the comet populations and debias measurements of the short- and long-period comet (LPC) populations. We find that the fit to the debiased LPC population yields a cumulative size−frequency distribution (SFD) power-law slope (β) of −1.0 ± 0.1, while the debiased Jupiter-family comet (JFC) SFD has a steeper slope with β = −2.3 ± 0.2. The JFCs in our debiased sample yielded a mean nucleus size of 1.3 km in diameter, while the LPCs’ mean size is roughly twice as large, 2.1 km, yielding mean size ratios (

) that differ by a factor of 1.6. Over the course of the 8 months of the survey, our results indicate that the number of LPCs passing within 1.5 au are a factor of several higher than previous estimates, while JFCs are within the previous range of estimates of a few thousand down to sizes near 1.3 km in diameter. Finally, we also observe evidence for structure in the orbital distribution of LPCs, with an overdensity of comets clustered near 110° inclination and perihelion near 2.9 au that is not attributable to observational bias.
ALMA Observations of the Gravitational Lens SDP.9
Authors: Wong Kenneth C. , Ishida Tsuyoshi , Tamura Yoichi , Suyu Sherry H. , Oguri Masamune , Matsushita Satoki
Published: July 2017

We present long-baseline ALMA observations of the strong gravitational lens H-ATLAS J090740.0−004200 (SDP.9), which consists of an elliptical galaxy at

lensing a background submillimeter galaxy into two extended arcs. The data include Band 6 continuum observations, as well as CO J = 6−5 molecular line observations, from which we measure an updated source redshift of

. The image morphology in the ALMA data is different from that of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) data, indicating a spatial offset between the stellar, gas, and dust component of the source galaxy. We model the lens as an elliptical power law density profile with external shear using a combination of archival HST data and conjugate points identified in the ALMA data. Our best model has an Einstein radius of

and a slightly steeper than isothermal mass profile slope. We search for the central image of the lens, which can be used constrain the inner mass distribution of the lens galaxy including the central supermassive black hole, but do not detect it in the integrated CO image at a 3σ rms level of 0.0471 Jy km s−1.
Design and Analysis of Online Micro-course of Garden Architecture Design Based on CPC Model
Authors: Liu Lili
Published: July 2017

In the network information age, micro-course is a brand-new teaching method which integrates conciseness, vividness, visualizability and distinctiveness. It is also a means of educational informationization. Especially in architecture design course, micro-course has been effectively applied. Based on CPC model, online micro-course of Garden Architecture Design was constructed again by combining patent 2D code technology in this paper. The design and analysis of online micro-course of Garden Architecture Design based on CPC model can basically achieve classroom flipping, promote equal interaction between teachers and students, enhance communications among classmates, feedback and evaluate teaching effect in time, promote students’ learning interest, change students’ learning attitude and boost their academic performance so as to reach the expected teaching objective.
Application of Practical Curriculum for College Specialty of Economic Management under TPACK Framework – Taking “Enterprise Operation and Decision Simulation System” Curriculum as an Example
Authors: Tao Tian , Nengfeng Zou , Jiyu Jiang , Xiaochun Xu
Published: July 2017

As a new type of educational knowledge integration framework under the appeal for informatization, Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge (TPACK) has become a prerequisite for teachers to integrate technologies into their teaching effectively. A comprehensive analysis of the current challenges faced by practical curriculums on economic management is presented in this paper. A curriculum design model was constructed based on the TPACK theoretic framework and the constructivism learning theory. The curriculum “Enterprise Operation and Decision Simulation System” was taken as an example, and the practical curriculum system for economic management under the TPACK framework was designed from three aspects, namely, teaching content, teaching methodology, and teaching technique. On this basis, an econometric analysis software was used to analyze the effects of curriculum implementation. Research indicates that TPACK plays a significant role in improving teaching quality, elevating student satisfaction, and cultivating students’ professional application and practice abilities. The research conclusion is of certain reference value to the practical teaching reform and development in universities.
Exploring the Convergence of the Mobile Learning Mode in Network Environment and the Traditional Classroom Teaching Mode
Authors: Lin Wang
Published: July 2017

The mobile network learning mode has been praised by many learners because of the convenience of using mobile phones. At the same time, it has posed great challenges to traditional teaching modes. To make full use of the mobile network learning mode and make up for the traditional classroom teaching mode, we investigated the convergence of these two modes. To this end, we analyzed the reasons for college students’ low network learning efficacy. Further, based on China’s current mobile network environment, national network policies, and the experience of constructing mobile network learning resources, we practiced mobile network learning in a course on Photoshop. The experiment showed that the mobile learning mode is feasible and that with the proper use of the mobile network environment, teachers can enrich teaching resources in class and raise students’ learning efficiency in classroom teaching. To achieve the desired effects of the mobile network learning mode, teachers should pay attention to three factors: the change of the teacher’s role in the teaching process, the acquisition of mobile network applications in the new learning mode, and the support of exterior service technologies. Applying this learning mode can provide valuable experience for the transformation of traditional teaching modes.
Financial Entrepreneurship in Three Emerging Economies
Authors: Murphy Lyndon , Abdulai Abdul-Fatahi , Anwar Khushnood , Abdullah Ahmed , Thomas Brychan Celfyn
Published: July 2017

This chapter compiles an up-to-date and academically grounded study on enterprise financing in the emerging economies of Ghana, Pakistan and Yemen in terms of global dynamics. The research question addressed ‘what is the nature of financial entrepreneurship in the three countries of Ghana, Pakistan and Yemen as emerging economies'. The methodology used is a comparative study of the three countries involving an investigation of the economic background, financial bodies, enterprises, and funding SMEs to determine the nature of financial entrepreneurship in the three countries as emerging economies. In response to the research question it was found that financial bodies have an important influence on enterprises especially in terms of the way SMEs are funded. From the findings of the comparative study a fundamental model was developed as the main contribution to knowledge concerning the financing of SMEs in emerging economies taking into account important financial aspects, the process of entrepreneurship and the significant outputs of SME activities and growth.
Problems Financing Small Business Enterprises in the Current Economic, Business, and Organizational Environment in Nigeria
Authors: Egbuta Iheanyi Chuku , Gilbert Laguo Livingstone
Published: July 2017

A number of significant problems face small business enterprises (SBEs) in terms of their ability to source financing in the current economic, business and organizational environment in Nigeria. This chapter investigates various financing difficulties facing SBEs, and from the findings makes recommendations for future support initiatives which will be of considerable interest to academics, policy makers and practitioners. The chapter explores problems involved in the financing of SBEs in terms of global dynamics investigating financial bodies, enterprises and the funding of SBEs. Secondary data sources are used to assess the existing financial environment which exists in Nigeria and from this identify the main financial drawbacks facing SBEs.
The Effectiveness of Financing the Marketing of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Qatar and the Gulf Co-Operation Council (GCC) Countries
Authors: Al-Marri Mohammed , Al-Hasan Said
Published: July 2017

This chapter considers whether financing the marketing of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Qatar and the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries has an effect on the advertising of these businesses. The authors investigate the various marketing finance problems facing SMEs and the effect on advertising. The chapter employs quantitative methods to gather and analyze data and the research strategy adopted involved a sequential procedure. In order to answer the research question how effective the financing of marketing of SMEs in the GCC countries is in terms of advertising the general profiles of respondents and businesses, the importance of the marketing department to the business and the marketing capabilities of SMEs were investigated taking into account the financing of the marketing budget.
Exploring the Role of Microfinance in Emerging Nations
Authors: Kasemsap Kijpokin
Published: July 2017

This chapter explains the overview of microfinance; the efficiency of microfinance institutions (MFIs) and sustainability; microfinance and interest rates; microfinance and information technology (IT); microfinance, social capital, trust, and repayment rates; microfinance and health care; informal microfinance institutions (IMFIs) and tourism entrepreneurship; and the importance of microfinance in emerging nations. Financial services provide a method for people and businesses to obtain credit and manage available assets on a continuous basis. Microfinance has a significant role in bridging the gap between formal financial institutions and rural poor households. MFIs can access financial resources from banks and other financial institutions and provide financial services to poor households. The chapter argues that promoting microfinance has the potential to enhance financial performance and reach economic goals in emerging nations.
Small and Medium Enterprises' Challenges of Accessing Microfinance in Nigeria
Authors: Woldie Atsede , Ubrurhe Uruemuesiri
Published: July 2017

Despite the fact that small and medium enterprises have been viewed as a major promoter of technological development and employment generation in Nigeria, the sector has been neglected by successive governments (Gideon, 2015). This has resulted in unpalatable consequences on the economy (Gideon, 2015). The major challenge of the sector is poor funding (Afolabi & Ehinomen, 2015). Consequently, policies and efforts should be geared towards accelerating the growth and development of the sector (Afolabi & Ehinomen, 2015). According to Onwumere, (2000) a lack of funding has been a specific obstacle to investment and growth in the sector. The need to contribute to the current debate, update knowledge on the subject matter and make informed recommendations when implemented will lead to a change in fortune for the small and medium enterprise sector in the Nigerian economy which has informed this study. The chapter sets out to explore the qualitative relationship between small and medium enterprises and banks. Despite the fact that small and medium enterprises have been viewed as a major promoter of technological development and employment generation in Nigeria, the sector has been neglected by successive governments. This has resulted in unpalatable consequences on the economy. The major challenge of the sector is poor funding. Consequently, policies and efforts should be geared towards accelerating the growth and development of the sector. A lack of funding has been a specific obstacle to investment and growth in the sector. The need to contribute to the current debate, update knowledge on the subject matter and make informed recommendations when implemented will lead to a change in fortune for the small and medium enterprise sector in the Nigerian economy which has informed this study. The chapter sets out to explore the qualitative relationship between small and medium enterprises and banks.