bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the Dissolution Performance of Amorphous Solid Dispersions Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Proton NMR
Authors: Tres Francesco , Coombes Steven , Phillips Andrew , Hughes Leslie , Wren Stephen , Aylott Jonathan , Burley Jonathan
Published: September 2015

We have investigated the dissolution performance of amorphous solid dispersions of poorly water-soluble bicalutamide in a Kollidon VA64 polymeric matrix as a function of the drug loading (5% vs. 30% bicalutamide). A combined suite of state-of-the-art analytical techniques were employed to obtain a clear picture of the drug release, including an integrated magnetic resonance imaging UV-Vis flow cell system and 1H-NMR. Off-line 1H-NMR was used for the first time to simultaneously measure the dissolution profiles and rates of both the drug and the polymer from a solid dispersion. MRI and 1H-NMR data showed that the 5% drug loading compact erodes linearly, and that bicalutamide and Kollidon VA64 are released at approximately the same rate from the molecular dispersion. For the 30% extrudate, data indicated a slower water ingress into the compact which corresponds to a slower dissolution rate of both bicalutamide and Kollidon VA64.
Synthesis, Antibacterial and Antitubercular Activities of Some 5H-Thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidin-5-ones and Sulfonic Acid Derivatives
Authors: Cai Dong , Zhang Zhi-Hua , Chen Yu , Yan Xin-Jia , Zou Liang-Jing , Wang Ya-Xin , Liu Xue-Qi
Published: September 2015

A series of 5H-thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidin-5-ones were synthesized by the cyclization reactions of S-alkylated derivatives in concentrated H2SO4. Upon treatment of S-alkylated derivatives at different temperatures, intramolecular cyclization to 7-(substituted phenylamino)-5H-thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidin-5-ones or sulfonation of cyclized products to sulfonic acid derivatives occurred. The structures of the target compounds were confirmed by IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and HRMS studies. The compounds were evaluated for their preliminary in vitro antibacterial activity against some Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and screened for antitubercular activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis by the broth dilution assay method. Some compounds showed good antibacterial and antitubercular activities.
Synthesis and Evaluation of a Rationally Designed Click-Based Library for G-Quadruplex Selective DNA Photocleavage
Authors: McBrayer Dominic , Kerwin Sean
Published: September 2015

DNA containing repeating G-rich sequences can adopt higher-order structures known as G-quadruplexes (G4). These structures are believed to form within telomeres and the promoter regions of some genes, particularly in a number of proto-oncogenes, where they may play a role in regulating transcription. Alternatively, G4 DNA may act as a barrier to replication. To investigate these potential biological roles, probes that combine highly selective G4 DNA targeting with photocleavage activity can allow temporal detection of G4 DNA, providing opportunities to obtain novel insights about the biological roles of G4 DNA. We have designed, synthesized, and screened a small library of potential selective G-quadruplex DNA photocleavage agents incorporating the G-quadruplex targeting moiety of 360A with known photocleavage groups linked via “click” chemistry.
Benzofuranyl Esters: Synthesis, Crystal Structure Determination, Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities
Authors: Kumar C. , Then Li , Chia Tze , Chandraju Siddegowda , Win Yip-Foo , Sulaiman Shaida , Hashim Nurul , Ooi Kheng , Quah Ching , Fun Hoong-Kun
Published: September 2015

A series of five new 2‐(1‐benzofuran‐2‐yl)‐2‐oxoethyl 4-(un/substituted)benzoates 4(a–e), with the general formula of C8H5O(C=O)CH2O(C=O)C6H4X, X = H, Cl, CH3, OCH3 or NO2, was synthesized in high purity and good yield under mild conditions. The synthesized products 4(a–e) were characterized by FTIR, 1H-, 13C- and 1H-13C HMQC NMR spectroscopic analysis and their 3D structures were confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies. These compounds were screened for their antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. The tested compounds showed antimicrobial ability in the order of 4b < 4a < 4c < 4d < 4e and the highest potency with minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) value of 125 µg/mL was observed for 4e. The results of antioxidant activities revealed the highest activity for compound 4e (32.62% ± 1.34%) in diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, 4d (31.01% ± 4.35%) in ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay and 4a (27.11% ± 1.06%) in metal chelating (MC) activity.
Quantification of CH-π Interactions Using Calix[4]pyrrole Receptors as Model Systems
Authors: Aragay Gemma , Hernández Daniel , Verdejo Begoña , Escudero-Adán Eduardo , Martínez Marta , Ballester Pablo
Published: September 2015

We describe the use of two series of aryl-extended calix[4]pyrrole receptors bearing two and four electronically tunable phenyl groups, respectively, in their meso-positions as model systems for the quantification of CH-π interactions in solution. The “four-wall” and the “two-wall” receptors formed thermodynamically stable 1:1 complexes in acetonitrile solution with both trimethylamine N-oxide and trimethylphosphine P-oxide as guests. The complexes were mainly stabilized by the formation of four convergent hydrogen bonds between the oxygen atom of the guests and the pyrrole NHs of the host. In general, the N-oxide produced thermodynamically more stable hydrogen bonding interactions than the P-oxide. Upon guest binding, the receptors adopted the cone conformation and the methyl groups of the included guests engaged in CH-π interactions with the aromatic walls. We show that the modification of the electronic properties of the aromatic surfaces, in any of the receptor series, did not have a significant impact in the measured binding affinities for a given guest. However, the larger binding affinities determined for the “four-wall” receptors in comparison to the “two-wall” counterparts supported the importance of CH-π interactions on guest complexation. The strength of the CH-π interactions present in the inclusion complexes was quantified employing the octamethyl calix[4]pyrrole as reference. We determined an average magnitude of ~1 kcal·mol−1 for each CH-π interaction. The CH-π interactions featured a reduced electrostatic nature and thus dispersion forces were assigned as main contributors of their strength.
pH-Dependence of the Aqueous Phase Room Temperature Brønsted Acid-Catalyzed Chemoselective Oxidation of Sulfides with H2O2
Authors: Shen Hai-Min , Zhou Wen-Jie , Ma Xin , Wu Hong-Ke , Yu Wu-Bin , Ai Ning , Ji Hong-Bing , Shi Hong-Xin , She Yuan-Bin
Published: September 2015

A pH-dependence of the Brønsted acid-catalyzed oxidation of sulfides to the corresponding sulfoxides with H2O2 is reported for the first time based on our systematic investigation of the catalytic performance of a series of Brønsted acids. For all of the Brønsted acids investigated, the catalytic performances do not depend on the catalyst loading (mol ratio of Brønsted acid to substrate), but rather depend on the pH value of the aqueous reaction solution. All of them can give more than 98% conversion and selectivity in their aqueous solution at pH 1.30, no matter how much the catalyst loading is and what the Brønsted acid is. This pH-dependence principle is a very novel perspective to understand the Brønsted-acid catalysis system compared with our common understanding of the subject.
Lewies, A., et al. The Potential Use of Natural and Structural Analogues of Antimicrobial Peptides in the Fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases. Molecules 2015, 20, 15392–15433
Authors: Lewies Angélique , Wentzel Johannes , Jacobs Garmi , Plessis Lissinda
Published: September 2015

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [1]: [...]
Effects of Olive Oil on Markers of Inflammation and Endothelial Function—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Schwingshackl Lukas , Christoph Marina , Hoffmann Georg
Published: September 2015

The aim of the present systematic review was to synthesize data from randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of olive oil on markers of inflammation or endothelial function. Literature search in electronic databases Cochrane Trial Register, EMBASE, and MEDLINE was performed. Thirty studies enrolling 3106 participants fulfilled the selection criteria. Pooled effects of different interventions were assessed as mean difference using a random effects model. Olive oil interventions (with daily consumption ranging approximately between 1 mg and 50 mg) resulted in a significantly more pronounced decrease in C-reactive protein (mean difference: −0.64 mg/L, (95% confidence interval (CI) −0.96 to −0.31), p < 0.0001, n = 15 trials) and interleukin-6 (mean difference: −0.29 (95% CI −0.7 to −0.02), p < 0.04, n = 7 trials) as compared to controls, respectively. Values of flow-mediated dilatation (given as absolute percentage) were significantly more increased in individuals subjected to olive oil interventions (mean difference: 0.76% (95% CI 0.27 to 1.24), p < 0.002, n = 8 trials). These results provide evidence that olive oil might exert beneficial effects on endothelial function as well as markers of inflammation and endothelial function, thus representing a key ingredient contributing to the cardiovascular-protective effects of a Mediterranean diet. However, due to the heterogeneous study designs (e.g., olive oil given as a supplement or as part of dietary pattern, variations in control diets), a conservative interpretation of the results is necessary.
Teaching Augustine—Introduction
Authors: McGinnis Scott , Metress Christopher
Published: September 2015

This introduction to the Special Issue “Teaching Augustine” summarizes the volume’s essays and discusses the conference at which they were initially presented.
Improving the Detection Limit in a Capillary Raman System for In Situ Gas Analysis by Means of Fluorescence Reduction
Authors: Rupp Simone , Off Andreas , Seitz-Moskaliuk Hendrik , James Timothy , Telle Helmut
Published: September 2015

Raman spectroscopy for low-pressure or trace gas analysis is rather challenging, in particular in process control applications requiring trace detection and real-time response; in general, enhancement techniques are required. One possible enhancement approach which enjoys increasing popularity makes use of an internally-reflective capillary as the gas cell. However, in the majority of cases, such capillary systems were often limited in their achievable sensitivity by a significant fluorescence background, which is generated as a consequence of interactions between the laser light and optical glass components in the setup. In order to understand and counteract these problems we have investigated a range of fluorescence-reducing measures, including the rearrangement of optical elements, and the replacement of glass components—including the capillary itself—by metal alternatives. These studies now have led to a capillary setup in which fluorescence is practically eliminated and substantial signal enhancement over standard Raman setups is achieved. With this improved (prototype) setup, detection limits of well below 1 mbar could be obtained in sub-second acquisition times, demonstrating the potential of capillary Raman spectroscopy for real-time, in situ gas sensing and process control applications, down to trace level concentrations.
Uncertainty Analysis of 208Pb Neutron Skin Predictions with Chiral Interactions
Authors: Sammarruca Francesca
Published: September 2015

We report predictions for the neutron skin in 208Pb using chiral two- and three-body interactions at increasing orders of chiral effective field theory and varying resolution scales. Closely related quantities, such as the slope of the symmetry energy, are also discussed. The sensitivity of the skin to just pure neutron matter pressure when going from order 2 to order 4 of chiral effective theory is singled out in a set of calculations that employ an empirical equation of state for symmetric nuclear matter.
Ochratoxin A Dietary Exposure of Ten Population Groups in the Czech Republic: Comparison with Data over the World
Authors: Ostry Vladimir , Malir Frantisek , Dofkova Marcela , Skarkova Jarmila , Pfohl-Leszkowicz Annie , Ruprich Jiri
Published: September 2015

Ochratoxin A is a nephrotoxic and renal carcinogenic mycotoxin and is a common contaminant of various food commodities. Eighty six kinds of foodstuffs (1032 food samples) were collected in 2011–2013. High-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection was used for ochratoxin A determination. Limit of quantification of the method varied between 0.01–0.2 μg/kg depending on the food matrices. The most exposed population is children aged 4–6 years old. Globally for this group, the maximum ochratoxin A dietary exposure for “average consumer” was estimated at 3.3 ng/kg bw/day (lower bound, considering the analytical values below the limit of quantification as 0) and 3.9 ng/kg bw/day (middle bound, considering the analytical values below the limit of quantification as 1/2 limit of quantification). Important sources of exposure for this latter group include grain-based products, confectionery, meat products and fruit juice. The dietary intake for “high consumers” in the group 4–6 years old was estimated from grains and grain-based products at 19.8 ng/kg bw/day (middle bound), from tea at 12.0 ng/kg bw/day (middle bound) and from confectionery at 6.5 ng/kg bw/day (middle bound). For men aged 18–59 years old beer was the main contributor with an intake of 2.60 ng/kg bw/day (“high consumers”, middle bound). Tea and grain-based products were identified to be the main contributors for dietary exposure in women aged 18–59 years old. Coffee and wine were identified as a higher contributor of the OTA intake in the population group of women aged 18–59 years old compared to the other population groups.
Quantitative Analysis of Staphylococcal Enterotoxins A and B in Food Matrices Using Ultra High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS)
Authors: Muratovic Aida , Hagström Thomas , Rosén Johan , Granelli Kristina , Hellenäs Karl-Erik
Published: September 2015

A method that uses mass spectrometry (MS) for identification and quantification of protein toxins, staphylococcal enterotoxins A and B (SEA and SEB), in milk and shrimp is described. The analysis was performed using a tryptic peptide, from each of the toxins, as the target analyte together with the corresponding 13C-labeled synthetic internal standard peptide. The performance of the method was evaluated by analyzing spiked samples in the quantification range 2.5–30 ng/g (R2 = 0.92–0.99). The limit of quantification (LOQ) in milk and the limit of detection (LOD) in shrimp was 2.5 ng/g, for both SEA and SEB toxins. The in-house reproducibility (RSD) was 8%–30% and 5%–41% at different concentrations for milk and shrimp, respectively. The method was compared to the ELISA method, used at the EU-RL (France), for milk samples spiked with SEA at low levels, in the quantification range of 2.5 to 5 ng/g. The comparison showed good coherence for the two methods: 2.9 (MS)/1.8 (ELISA) and 3.6 (MS)/3.8 (ELISA) ng/g. The major advantage of the developed method is that it allows direct confirmation of the molecular identity and quantitative analysis of SEA and SEB at low nanogram levels using a label and antibody free approach. Therefore, this method is an important step in the development of alternatives to the immune-assay tests currently used for staphylococcal enterotoxin analysis.
Anti-HBV Drugs: Progress, Unmet Needs, and New Hope
Authors: Kang Lei , Pan Jiaqian , Wu Jiaofen , Hu Jiali , Sun Qian , Tang Jing
Published: September 2015

Approximately 240 million people worldwide are chronically infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV), which represents a significant challenge to public health. The current goal in treating chronic HBV infection is to block progression of HBV-related liver injury and inflammation to end-stage liver diseases, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, because we are unable to eliminate chronic HBV infection. Available therapies for chronic HBV infection mainly include nucleos/tide analogues (NAs), non-NAs, and immunomodulatory agents. However, none of them is able to clear chronic HBV infection. Thus, a new generation of anti-HBV drugs is urgently needed. Progress has been made in the development and testing of new therapeutics against chronic HBV infection. This review aims to summarize the state of the art in new HBV drug research and development and to forecast research and development trends and directions in the near future.
Reaction of allene esters with Selectfluor/TMSX (X = I, Br, Cl) and Selectfluor/NH4SCN: Competing oxidative/electrophilic dihalogenation and nucleophilic/conjugate addition
Authors: Reddy A Srinivas , Laali Kenneth K
Published: September 2015

Reaction of benzyl and ethyl allenoates with TMSX (X = I, Br, Cl) and with NH4SCN were investigated in MeCN, DMF, and in imidazolium ionic liquids [BMIM][NTf2] and [BMIM][PF6] as solvent, in the presence and absence of Selectfluor. Comparative product analysis studies demonstrate that the ability of Selectflour to promote oxidative/electrophilic dihalogenation/dithiocyanation with TMSX/NH4SCN (as observed previously for 1-arylallenes) is diminished in allenoates, most significantly in reactions with TMSCl, and essentially disappearing in reactions with NH4SCN, in favor of nucleophilic/conjugate addition. The study underscores the contrasting reactivity patterns in 1-arylallenes and allenoates toward electrophilic and nucleophilic additions in halofunctionalization with TMSX/Selectfluor and thiocyanation reactions with NH4SCN/Selectfluor. These competing pathways are influenced by the nature of the anion, allene structure, and the choice of solvent.
Current Status, Goals, and Research Agenda for Outcome Measures Development in Behçet Syndrome: Report from OMERACT 2014
Authors: Hatemi Gulen , Ozguler Yesim , Direskeneli Haner , Mahr Alfred , Gul Ahmet , Levi Virna , Aydin Sibel Z. , Mumcu Gonca , Sertel-Berk Ozlem , Stevens Randall M. , Yazici Hasan , Merkel Peter A.
Published: September 2015

Objective.

There is an unmet need for reliable, validated, and widely accepted outcomes and outcome measures for use in clinical trials in Behçet syndrome (BS). Our report summarizes initial steps taken by the Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) vasculitis working group toward developing a core set of outcome measures for BS according to the OMERACT methodology, including the OMERACT Filter 2.0, and discussions during the first meeting of the BS working group held during OMERACT 12 (2014).

Methods.

During OMERACT 12, some of the important challenges in developing outcomes for BS were outlined and discussed, and a research agenda was drafted.

Results.

Among topics discussed were the advantages and disadvantages of a composite measure for BS that evaluates several organs/organ systems; bringing patients and physicians together for discussions about how to assess disease activity; use of organ-specific measures developed for other diseases; and the inclusion of generic, disease-specific, or organ-specific measures. The importance of incorporating patients’ perspectives, concerns, and ideas into outcome measure development was emphasized.

Conclusion.

The planned research agenda includes conducting a Delphi exercise among physicians from different specialties that are involved in the care of patients with BS and among patients with BS, with the aim of identifying candidate domains and subdomains to be assessed in randomized clinical trials of BS, and candidate items for a composite measure. The ultimate goal of the group is to develop a validated and widely accepted core set of outcomes and outcome measures for use in clinical trials in BS.
Repenser les liens entre la gestion du capital humain et la marque employeur perçue en contexte de mutation organisationnelle
Authors: Goujon Belghit Anne , Gilson Adeline , Bourgain Marina
Published: September 2015

Cette contribution s’attache, dans une perspective constructiviste, à comprendre les liens entre la gestion du capital humain et la marque employeur d’une grande organisation publique en mutation organisationnelle (GOPM). Le capital humain peut être de deux natures : spécifique ou général. L’organisation publique doit maîtriser les processus de recrutement interne et externe afin de générer de la valeur et de renforcer son avantage compétitif alors qu’elle subit des pressions exogènes et endogènes. Ces pratiques ont une incidence sur la marque employeur de deux façons, sur les signaux émis et également sur l’interprétation de ces signaux par les récepteurs (les futurs salariés de GOPM). Nos résultats montrent les liens entre la gestion du capital humain général étudiée par le prisme du recrutement externe et la marque employeur perçue par les candidats potentiels de GOPM. On observe également que les pratiques de recrutement externe ont une incidence sur la gestion du capital humain spécifique. Cette dernière à son tour diffuse des signaux vers l’extérieur.
Une LOLF socio-économique : appropriation de critères d’évaluation et élaboration d’outils de gestion dans les entreprises de spectacle vivant
Authors: Horvath Isabelle , Chabrillat Jacques
Published: September 2015

Nous proposons, à partir d’une recherche-intervention, un schéma d’élaboration d’outils de gestion dynamiques pour les organisations de spectacle vivant qui articule le système administratif externe (la LOLF) au processus managérial. L’appropriation co-construite d’outils de gestion optimise alors la capacité des entreprises à développer un nouveau dialogue avec leurs partenaires publics.
Effet du mode bidirectionnel des récits sur l’expérience narrative de l’œnotouriste
Authors: Sempé Laurent , Seloudre Jean-Paul
Published: September 2015

Les volumes d’informations narratives se sont accrus entre l’oenotouriste et les sites, d’abord du fait du recours aux technologies numériques (SIT, sites d’avis, blogs, ...), puis du fait du caractère bidirectionnel des récits portés. Concernant l’expérience narrative de l’oenotouriste, cet article pose la question de l’efficacité du type de voie (exogène versus ontologique-endogène), ainsi que de la quantité optimale de récits circulant entre le territoire et lui. Le travail empirique comparera un modèle (avec variables latentes réflexives) d’expériences narratives perçues sans récit avec trois protocoles de récits : faible endogène, fort endogène et ontologique avec storytelling (Ryan 2002). Trois préconisations sont avancées pour les territoires : d’abord Ils doivent proposer les deux voies et laisser l’œnotouriste s’auto segmenter, ensuite la voie exploratoire exogène doit fournir des récits succincts (stéréotypes), enfin une recherche permanente des objets « Mana » ou « lieux générateurs » doit-être entreprise.
Maryse Condé
Authors: Moudileno Lydie
Published: September 2015

Lydie M OUDILENO revient sur l’ensemble de l’œuvre de Maryse Condé en mettant en relief certains des traits thématiques et formels qui la parcourent. Ainsi des exemples tirés des tous premiers textes ( Hérémakhonon , Ségou , ou Une saison à Rihata ) autant que des œuvres les plus récentes ( L’Histoire de la femme cannibale , Les Belles ténébreuses , Victoire, les saveurs et les mots ) illustrent la récurrence des problématiques liées à la famille, à l’origine, à l’exil ou à la rébellion. Moudileno nous invite à relire les textes de Condé à la lumière de ces questions, en insistant sur la position insolente, voire iconoclaste de l’auteur par rapport à sa propre pratique, et d’un genre à l’autre, de l’écriture autobiographique au roman fantastique.
Maryse Condé
Authors: Hardwick Louise
Published: September 2015

Louise H ARDWICK explore le thème de l’enfance chez Maryse Condé dans Desirada , Le Cœur à rire et à pleurer et Victoire, les saveurs et les mots . Prenant comme point de départ les contes présentés dans les récits d’autofiction du Cœur à rire et à pleurer , Hardwick analyse les notions d’aliénation et de rébellion ainsi que la volonté de Condé de poursuivre dans son œuvre les débats sur la nécessité de transmettre l’histoire esclavagiste. Se référant à Fanon ( Peau noire, masques blancs ), à la psychanalyse de Freud (souvenir-écran, roman familial), et aux théories d’Irigaray, Hardwick examine la dimension intertextuelle des deux textes d’autofiction qui reprennent la forme du dialogue créole « appel/réponse » et, à travers l’analyse de Desirada , analyse la construction d’une « généalogie maternelle ».
Maryse Condé
Authors: Viala Fabienne
Published: September 2015

Fabienne V IALA nous invite à relire La Vie scélérate , Histoire de la femme cannibale , et Célanire cou-coupé , comme autant de réécritures barbares pour s’affranchir d’un système colonial et redéfinir les contours de l’antillanité. En analysant les diverses formes de rébellion en germe chez les héroïnes condéennes – rébellion contre l’ordre patriarcal et familial, contre les attentes et les fantasmes de sociétés masculines et coloniales – Viala montre comment Condé questionne l’identité culturelle antillaise par le prisme de personnages féminins qui condensent les impasses de l’aliénation identitaire et la volonté de reconquérir une essence culturelle hybride, soulignant en cela que la transgression de codes normatifs pour appréhender une identité mise sous clé – intime, artistique, politique – devient un schéma narratif opérant dans de nombreux « romans de destinées », réitéré sous diverses formes métaphoriques – sauvagerie, cannibalisme, sorcellerie.
Les littératures africaines
Authors: Morgan Naòmi
Published: September 2015

Depuis 1994, l’Afrique du Sud redécouvre les îles qui parsèment sa côte orientale, dont Madagascar, et s’ouvre à la découverte musicale à travers des traductions de chansons afrikaans en français. L’auteur de cet article et traductrice des chansons qui composent le projet « Afri-Frans », dont le CD sortira en France en 2010, se penche ici sur le processus traductologique en des termes pratiques. En vue de l’absence de bons dictionnaires bilingues afrikaans / français, elle propose l’adaptation d’idiomes afrikaans au français en guise de concession culturelle à l’auditeur français et francophone. L’explication des choix terminologiques vise à combler certaines lacunes dans le choix des outils disponibles au traducteur à l’intérieur du couple de langues afrikaans / français. Interprétées par la chanteuse Maude Myra, d’origine malgache, ces chansons constituent plus qu’un projet de traduction ; à travers « Afri-Frans », l’Afrique du Sud renoue avec son histoire.
Les littératures africaines
Authors: Baumgardt Ursula
Published: September 2015

L’article aborde la question de la définition des genres en littérature orale africaine d’un point de vue comparatif et à propos de la littérature peule : un genre de prime abord peu concerné par une thématique donnée est comparé à un autre qui, au contraire, privilégie cette même thématique. Ainsi, le conte peut emprunter certains traits formels à l’épopée et les associer à une présentation positive du pouvoir royal, alors qu’une telle « rencontre générique » n’est pas attestée dès lors qu’il est question de critiquer ce pouvoir. Les textes fonctionnent selon le principe incontournable de la complémentarité, moyen privilégié pour différencier les points de vue et créer une vision d’ensemble cohérente.
Les littératures africaines
Authors: Gehrmann Susanne
Published: September 2015

Dans La Formule Bardey , Alain Ricard mélange récit de voyage et essai scientifique comme le font au même moment des auteurs africains comme Soyinka, Farah ou Mudimbe dont la narration autobiographique, marquée par l’expérience de la migration et de l’exil, se croise souvent avec l’analyse de l’histoire ou de la culture africaine dans le même texte. L’article analyse l’exemple de deux essais autobiographiques de Manthia Diawara, un scientifique cosmopolite dont les déplacements entre les trois continents – Afrique, Europe et Amérique – donnent lieu à une écriture multiforme et engagée que l’on pourrait lire en dialogue avec d’autres témoignages et essais des auteurs africains et africanistes.
L'Afrique noire dans les imaginaires antillais
Authors: Crainic Corina
Published: September 2015

Résumé Les œuvres de la romancière Simone Schwarz-Bart témoignent d’une époque charnière dont l’importance nous semble capitale pour la littérature guadeloupéenne en particulier et la conscience artistique antillaise en général. Son roman Ti Jean L’horizon nous interpelle particulièrement dans la mesure où il correspond à la fois à une alternative aux propositions d’Aimé Césaire et à une illustration du parcours intellectuel de toute une génération de penseurs qui ont hérité de la mémoire de l’esclavage et du rêve de l’Ailleurs. Ce sera ici l’occasion d’étudier cet univers fictif qui contribue au renversement d’un imaginaire qui soigne par le rêve de l’Afrique la part souffrante de la conscience antillaise. Ti Jean L’horizon esquisse l’ouverture et la relation à l’Autre en soi qui ne relève plus de l’Afrique ou de l’Europe mais d’une tragédie à comprendre et à dépasser.
L'Afrique noire dans les imaginaires antillais
Authors: Simasotchi-Bronès Françoise
Published: September 2015

Résumé Dans les divers entretiens qu’elle accorde sur son parcours biographique ou sur son œuvre, l’écrivaine guadeloupéenne Gisèle Pineau insiste sur son rapport singulier à l’Afrique, terre où elle a passé une partie de son enfance et avec laquelle, adulte, elle a renoué des liens privilégiés. Dans L’exil selon Julia , cependant, l’Afrique, loin d’apparaître comme un espace cristallisé dans une représentation convenue de la terre mythique des origines pour le peuple antillais, figure plutôt le lieu génésique qui informe, même de manière fantomatique, l’écriture et l’imaginaire de l’écrivaine.
L'Afrique noire dans les imaginaires antillais
Authors: Naudillon Françoise
Published: September 2015

Résumé Il est intéressant de vérifier ce qu’il advient des représentations de l’Afrique dans des œuvres destinées à un lectorat populaire, loin des débats intellectuel et philosophique sur l’identité culturelle (négritude, antillanité, créolité). C’est dans cette perspective que l’on lira Tony Delsham, écrivain populaire et auteur de la saga en trois tomes intitulée Filiation . Il s’agira de vérifier ce que deviennent les mythographies sur l’Afrique et l’origine africaine – passage obligé des littératures produites aux Antilles – dans la littérature populaire.
Fans of Columbine shooters Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold
Authors: Rico Andrew Ryan
Published: September 2015

On April 20, 1999, Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold murdered 12 students and one teacher at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado, in what was then the deadliest school shooting in American history. Despite causing a national panic and serving as a flash point for larger narratives on bullying, gun control, and media violence, both boys have gained active online fans. These fandoms dedicated to the Columbine shooters are widely referred to as dark examples of Internet communities, while the fans are also frequently denigrated as unstable and violent outcasts. Such dark online fandoms are yet to permeate mainstream culture or to challenge the preexisting perception of these communities as breeding grounds for the next wave of school shooters. While studies have covered the types of fans and their myriad interests, the field remains focused on more conventional examples of fan communities. In an effort to challenge and expand the object of focus when we study fandom, this qualitative study examines Columbine fans and their activity in order to understand the dominant motives they appear to have for engaging with and around such controversial figures and then concludes by exploring how this community might help us reflect more broadly on our concept of fandom. Redeeming these fans as part of diverse and complex communities of social relevance can demonstrate how even a dark fandom such as that of these Columbine shooters provides valuable cultural insights and benefits the field of fan studies.
(Re)examining the attitudes of comic book store patrons
Authors: Stevens J. Richard , Bell Christopher E.
Published: September 2015

As digital comic book consumption continues to rise in popularity, the comic book community appears conflicted over the effects that digital scans have on the meaning of collecting and reading comic books. Historically, comic ownership served as the locus of comic fan social capital; will digital scans hold the same cultural capital as printed books? And does postpurchased digital scan dissemination primarily hurt copyright holders through lost sales, or does it help through social promotion? Building on an analysis of fan attitudes toward digital comic book texts, we seek to account for the limitations of locality by surveying the attitudes of comic book store patrons concerning their attitudes toward physical and digital comic book texts.
Annexin A2 Regulates Autophagy in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infection through the Akt1–mTOR–ULK1/2 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Li Rongpeng , Tan Shirui , Yu Min , Jundt Michael C. , Zhang Shuang , Wu Min
Published: September 2015

Earlier studies reported that a cell membrane protein, Annexin A2 (AnxA2), plays multiple roles in the development, invasion, and metastasis of cancer. Recent studies demonstrated that AnxA2 also functions in immunity against infection, but the underlying mechanism remains largely elusive. Using a mouse infection model, we reveal a crucial role for AnxA2 in host defense against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as anxa2−/− mice manifested severe lung injury, systemic dissemination, and increased mortality compared with wild-type littermates. In addition, anxa2−/− mice exhibited elevated inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and IFN-γ), decreased bacterial clearance by macrophages, and increased superoxide release in the lung. We further identified an unexpected molecular interaction between AnxA2 and Fam13A, which activated Rho GTPase. P. aeruginosa infection induced autophagosome formation by inhibiting Akt1 and mTOR. Our results indicate that AnxA2 regulates autophagy, thereby contributing to host immunity against bacteria through the Akt1–mTOR–ULK1/2 signaling pathway.
Early Devonian land plants from Bathurst Island, district of Franklin
Authors: Hueber F M
Published: September 2015

Two collections of Early Devonian land plants belonging to the Zosterophyllophytina and Lycophytine, from Bathurst Island, District of Franklin, are described and figured. The assemblage from GSC plant locality 8370 contains Bathurstia denticulata n. gen. et n.
sp., Rebuchia capitanea n. sp., Sawdonia orna ta (Dawson) Hueber, Drepanophycus spinaeformis Goppert, cf. Bathurstia sp., and an unnamed zosterophylloid axis. A specimen of Sawdonia ornata is described from GSC plant locality 8376. The plants are of Siegenian and Emsian age respectively on the bases
of the invertebrate fossils and dispersed plant spores with which they are associated. The Siegenian plants represent the earliest record thus far of land plants in Canada and the first report of Early Devonian plants from the Canadian Arctic. The presence of a cuticle was demonstrated for all but
one of the plants. Evidence of a vascular strand composed of tracheids was obtained only from the specimen of Drepanophycus. Those fossils with a cuticle but lacking a xylem strand should be described as those of land plants and not as those of land vascular plants. The probable sequence in the
origin of cuticle, cutinized spores, vascular strand composed of tracheids, and stomata, is briefly discussed.
Reconnaissance of Lower Paleozoic geology, Phillips Inlet region, north coast of Ellesmere Island, District of Franklin
Authors: Trettin H P
Published: September 2015

The lower Paleozoic rocks of the Phillips Inlet region, which are unconformably overlain by Carboniferous formations, are unfossiliferous. Their age assignments, therefore, are tentative and based on lithological correlation with formations of known age in other
parts of Ellesmere Island. The following stratigraphic units are distinguished: Late Ordovician(?) limestone and overlying slates and phyllites; a thick succession of Early to early Late Silurian(?) elastic sediments which are mainly of flysch-type but also include deltaic deposits; and Late
Silurian(?) volcanics overlain by carbonates. In addition, there are two metamorphic complexes composed of sedimentary and volcanic rocks that appear to be mainly of pre-Silurian ages. Both stratigraphic units and metamorphic complexes are intruded by quartz monzonite and quartz diorite plutons that
are probably of Middle to Late Devonian age. Regional metamorphism of greenschist to amphibolite facies is associated with the major intrusions and affects strata as young as Silurian. The lower Paleozoic strata are tightly folded and faulted, and terrains containing granitic intrusions have been
elevated with respect to other terrains. The tight folding is considered to be of Devonian age because it is restricted to the lower Paleozoic strata, but the faulting is thought to be partly or entirely of Tertiary age. Dyke swarms, mainly of pre-Carboniferous age but perhaps also of Tertiary age,
parallel the boundaries of a major horst east of Henson Bay.
Paleomagnetic notes on some minor tertiary igneous bodies and the Karmutsen Basalts, Vancouver Island, British Columbia
Authors: Symons D T A
Published: September 2015

Paleomagnetic measurements on 130 core specimens from 13 sites in known or presumed Tertiary igneous bodies indicate that all tested bodies have a stable primary remanence of probable Tertiary age . The Kennedy Lake and Tofino quartz diorite stocks, dated
radiometrically at 59 ±. 3 and SO±. S m . y . respectively, represent two distinct intrusive events on the basis of remanence direction . The Mount Washington quartz diorite stock (35 ±. 6 m . y . ) is contemporaneous with surrounding porphyritic dacite sills such as those sampled
near Anderson Lake and Bevan, and nearly contemporaneous with the porphyritic dacite sills in the Englishman River area such as the one beside Dash Creek which gives an antiparallel remanence direction . On northern Vancouver Island the rhyolite flow and tuff adjacent to the Cluxewe River may be
contemporaneous with the Mount Washington intrusive event while the basalt flow on Twin Peaks is tentatively thought to represent a younger event.
Geomathematical evaluation of copper and zinc potential of the Abitibi area, Ontario and Quebec
Authors: Agterberg F P , Chung C F , Fabbri A G , Kelly A M , Springer J S
Published: September 2015

A number of geological features and geophysical parameters were coded systematically by superimposing a network of cells over the Abitibi area. A parameter expressing amount of metal per cell is calculated for cells (control cells) known to contain one or more
large copper or zinc orebodies. This parameter for known mineralization is related to the coded values of the geological and geophysical measurements inside and outside the control cells; the resulting relationship is extrapolated to all other cells in the area. The result is a set of predicted
values which are scaled, summed for larger unit cells and contoured to give a probability index. The metal potential of an area is then equal to the difference between total value as predicted by the probability index and total known value for proven reserves within the area. The predictions are
subject to certain limitations in the method of approach and have wide confidence limits which can be calculated.
Secondary fields of a vertical magnetic dipole above a thin horizontal layer of conductive overburden
Authors: Dyck A V , Becker A
Published: September 2015

A detailed numerical calculation of the secondary magnetic field due to a vertical magnetic dipole above a thin horizontal conductor reveals this quantity to be elliptically polarized. The current distribution in the conductive sheet is circular and sharply
bounded so that about 97 per cent of the induced current is contained by a circular region whose radius approximately equals five times the height of the source above the conductor . The mathematical thin sheet model is most useful for the calibration of EM scale-model equipment. Its validity for
the interpretation of survey data however, is limited.
The Geological Survey of Canada sedimentation flume
Authors: McDonald B C
Published: September 2015

A recirculating, tiltable, sedimentation flume has been constructed, primarily for research on fluvial processes, although the apparatus can be adapted easily to studies of lacustrine and certain beach phenomena. The main channel is 18. 3 metres long, O. 76
metres wide, and O. 6 metres deep. A transparent acrylic section 5 metres long exists in each of the two return pipes. Various devices have been installed to aid measurement of flow variables.
Analysis of rocks and minerals by atomic absorption and flame emission spectroscopy - Part 4. A composite scheme for the less common Alkali and Alkaline-earth elements.
Authors: Abbey S
Published: September 2015

An analytical scheme is proposed for the determination of lithium, rubidium, cesium, barium and strontium in the concentration ranges where they occur in most silicate rocks. Where necessary, an aliquot of the same sample solution may also be used to determine
total iron, magnesium, calcium, sodium and potassium by atomic absorption in the air-acetylene flame. The sample is decomposed by a conventional hydrofluoric-nitric-perchloric acid attack, and there are no chemical separations. Following the addition of potassium to suppress ionization, the three
alkali metals are determined by emission in an airacetylene flame. A standard-addition technique is sometimes required to overcome matrix effects. An aliquot is then diluted; more potassium is added, followed by lanthanum as releasing agent, and the two alkaline earths determined by atomic
absorption in a nitrous oxide-acetylene flame.
Early management of traumatic brain injury in a Tertiary hospital in Central Kenya: A clinical audit
Authors: Mwita Clifford Chacha , Muthoka Johnstone , Maina Stephen , Mulingwa Phillip , Gwer Samson
Published: September 2015

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of death and disability worldwide and is mostly attributed to road traffic accidents in resource-poor areas. However, access to neurosurgical care is poor in these settings and patients in need of neurosurgical procedures are often managed by general practitioners or surgeons. Materials and Methods: A retrospective clinical audit of the initial management of patients with TBI in Thika Level 5 Hospital (TL5H), a Tertiary Hospital in Central Kenya. Seventeen audit criteria divided into five clinical domains were identified and patient case notes reviewed for compliance with each criterion. Data were analyzed separately for those below 13 years owing to differences in response to brain trauma in those below this age. Results: Overall, there was poor compliance with audit criteria in both groups. Among those below 13 years of age, only 3 out of 17 criteria achieved compliance and 4 out of 17 criteria achieved compliance for those above 13 years of age. Assessment for the need for a cervical radiograph (7.1% and 8.8% compliance) and administration of oxygen (21.4% and 20.6% compliance) had the worst performance in both groups. Conclusion: Poor compliance to audit criteria indicates the low quality of care for patients with TBI in TL5H. Quality improvement strategies with follow-up audits are needed to improve care. There is a need to develop and enforce evidence-based protocols and guidelines for use in the management of patients with TBI in sub-Saharan Africa.
Clinicoepidemiological profile of cerebral venous thrombosis in Algarve, Portugal: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Nzwalo Hipólito , Rodrigues Fátima , Carneiro Patricia , Macedo Ana , Ferreira Fátima , Basílio Carlos
Published: September 2015

Background: Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a very uncommon disorder with a wide variety of clinical manifestations. There are few studies describing the clinical and epidemiological profile of CVT in peripheral or rural areas. Over the last decades, the frequency in which this disease is diagnosed has increased due to greater awareness and availability of noninvasive diagnostic techniques. Materials and Methods: A hospital-based retrospective case review of adult (≥15 years) patients with CVT between 2001 and 2012 is described. 31 patients with confirmed imagiological diagnosis of CVT were included. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was performed using R version 2.15.2. Incidence rate was computed as number of new cases by time. Confidence interval (CI) was set at 95% and P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The average annual incidence was 0.84 (CI: 0.58–1.18) to 0.73 (CI: 0.5–1.02) per 100 000 cases for adult population. There were 23 (74%) women and 8 (26%) men. Predominant initial manifestations were headache, followed by altered mental status and seizures. Median diagnostic delay from onset of illness was 8 days. All patients were treated with unfractionated heparin or low-molecular heparin followed by warfarin. Complete recovery occurred in the majority of cases 22 (78.6%) but two patients died during hospitalization. Conclusions: Albeit with some particularities, the epidemiology and clinical manifestations we found are comparable to what has been reported in western studies.
Estimation of cerebrospinal fluid cortisol level in tuberculous meningitis
Authors: Mahale Rohan R. , Mehta Anish , Uchil Sudhir
Published: September 2015

Background: Central nervous system (CNS) involvement in tuberculosis is around 5–10%. Of the various manifestations of CNS tuberculosis, meningitis is the most common (70–80%). Delay in diagnosis and treatment results in significant morbidity and mortality. Objective: To study the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cortisol levels in tubercular meningitis and compare the levels with controls. Methods: Cross-sectional, prospective, observational, hospital-based study done in 20 patients of tubercular meningitis, 20 patients of aseptic meningitis (AM) and 25 control subjects without any preexisting neurological disorders who have undergone lumbar puncture for spinal anesthesia. Results: Cortisol was detected in all 40 CSF samples of patients (100%). Mean CSF cortisol level was 8.82, 3.47 and 1.05 in tubercular meningitis, AM and controls, respectively. Mean CSF cortisol level in tubercular meningitis was significantly higher as compared to AM and controls (P < 0.0001). Conclusion: Cortisol level estimation in CSF is one of the rapid, relatively inexpensive diagnostic markers in early identification of tubercular meningitis along with CSF findings of elevated proteins, hypoglycorrhachia and lymphocytic pleocytosis. This aids in earlier institution of appropriate treatment and thereby decreasing morbidity and mortality. This is the first study on the estimation of CSF cortisol level in tuberculous meningitis.