bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is the Surface of Gas Hydrates Dry?
Authors: Maeda Nobuo
Published: June 2015

Adhesion (cohesion) and agglomeration properties of gas hydrate particles have been a key to hydrate management in flow assurance in natural gas pipelines. Despite its importance, the relevant data in the area, such as the surface energy and the interfacial energy of gas hydrates with gas and/or water, are scarce; presumably due to the experimental difficulties involved in the measurements. Here we review what is known about the surface energy and the interfacial energy of gas hydrates to date. In particular, we ask a question as to whether pre-melting can occur on the surface of gas hydrates. Surface thermodynamic analyses show that pre-melting is favoured to occur on the surface of gas hydrates, however, not sufficient data are available to assess its thickness. The effects of the existence of pre-melting layers on the cohesion and friction forces between gas hydrate particles are also discussed.
Health Status and Risk Factors among Adolescent Survivors One Month after the 2014 Ludian Earthquake
Authors: Tang Bihan , Ge Yang , Xue Chen , Kang Peng , Liu Yuan , Liu Xu , Liu Zhipeng , Yu Wenya , Zhang Lulu
Published: June 2015

Background: An earthquake struck Ludian in Yunnan Province (China) on 3 August 2014, resulting in 3143 injuries, 617 deaths, and 112 missing persons. Our study aimed at estimating the health status and associated determinants among adolescent survivors after the Ludian earthquake. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 845 was conducted at the Ludian No. 1 Middle School. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA and stepwise linear regression analysis were used for data analysis. Results: The mean scores on the physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) were 46.23 (SD = 7.10) and 36.34 (SD = 7.09), respectively. Lower PCS scores in the aftermath of an earthquake were associated with being trapped or in danger, being female, being an ethnic minority, injury to self and house damage, while lower MSC scores were associated with fear during the earthquake, Han ethnicity, death in the family, not being involved in the rescue and low household income. Conclusions: In our study, significant associations between demographic, socio-economic, and trauma-related experiences variables and overall physical and mental health of adolescent survivors were presented. The results of this study help expand our knowledge of health status among adolescent survivors after the Ludian earthquake.
Hydrogen Production by the Thermophilic Bacterium Thermotoga neapolitana
Authors: Pradhan Nirakar , Dipasquale Laura , D'Ippolito Giuliana , Panico Antonio , Lens Piet , Esposito Giovanni , Fontana Angelo
Published: June 2015

As the only fuel that is not chemically bound to carbon, hydrogen has gained interest as an energy carrier to face the current environmental issues of greenhouse gas emissions and to substitute the depleting non-renewable reserves. In the last years, there has been a significant increase in the number of publications about the bacterium Thermotoga neapolitana that is responsible for production yields of H2 that are among the highest achievements reported in the literature. Here we present an extensive overview of the most recent studies on this hyperthermophilic bacterium together with a critical discussion of the potential of fermentative production by this bacterium. The review article is organized into sections focused on biochemical, microbiological and technical issues, including the effect of substrate, reactor type, gas sparging, temperature, pH, hydraulic retention time and organic loading parameters on rate and yield of gas production.
Specific Colon Cancer Cell Cytotoxicity Induced by Bacteriophage E Gene Expression under Transcriptional Control of Carcinoembryonic Antigen Promoter
Authors: Rama Ana , Hernandez Rosa , Perazzoli Gloria , Burgos Miguel , Melguizo Consolación , Vélez Celia , Prados Jose
Published: June 2015

Colorectal cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers in the world. Patients in advanced stages often develop metastases that require chemotherapy and usually show a poor response, have a low survival rate and develop considerable toxicity with adverse symptoms. Gene therapy may act as an adjuvant therapy in attempts to destroy the tumor without affecting normal host tissue. The bacteriophage E gene has demonstrated significant antitumor activity in several cancers, but without any tumor-specific activity. The use of tumor-specific promoters may help to direct the expression of therapeutic genes so they act against specific cancer cells. We used the carcinoembryonic antigen promoter (CEA) to direct E gene expression (pCEA-E) towards colon cancer cells. pCEA-E induced a high cell growth inhibition of human HTC-116 colon adenocarcinoma and mouse MC-38 colon cancer cells in comparison to normal human CCD18co colon cells, which have practically undetectable levels of CEA. In addition, in vivo analyses of mice bearing tumors induced using MC-38 cells showed a significant decrease in tumor volume after pCEA-E treatment and a low level of Ki-67 in relation to untreated tumors. These results suggest that the CEA promoter is an excellent candidate for directing E gene expression specifically toward colon cancer cells.
Efficient Synthesis of Peptide and Protein Functionalized Pyrrole-Imidazole Polyamides Using Native Chemical Ligation
Authors: Janssen Brian , Van Ommeren Sven , Merkx Maarten
Published: June 2015

The advancement of DNA-based bionanotechnology requires efficient strategies to functionalize DNA nanostructures in a specific manner with other biomolecules, most importantly peptides and proteins. Common DNA-functionalization methods rely on laborious and covalent conjugation between DNA and proteins or peptides. Pyrrole-imidazole (Py–Im) polyamides, based on natural minor groove DNA-binding small molecules, can bind to DNA in a sequence specific fashion. In this study, we explore the use of Py–Im polyamides for addressing proteins and peptides to DNA in a sequence specific and non-covalent manner. A generic synthetic approach based on native chemical ligation was established that allows efficient conjugation of both peptides and recombinant proteins to Py–Im polyamides. The effect of Py–Im polyamide conjugation on DNA binding was investigated by Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR). Although the synthesis of different protein-Py–Im-polyamide conjugates was successful, attenuation of DNA affinity was observed, in particular for the protein-Py–Im-polyamide conjugates. The practical use of protein-Py–Im-polyamide conjugates for addressing DNA structures in an orthogonal but non-covalent manner, therefore, remains to be established.
Detection of Serum Protein Biomarkers for the Diagnosis and Staging of Hepatoblastoma
Authors: Zhao Wei , Li Juan , Zhang Junjie , Gao Pengfei , Pei Hang , Wang Lei , Guo Fei , Yu Jiekai , Zheng Shu , Wang Jiaxiang
Published: June 2015

The present study aimed to identify serum biomarkers for the detection of hepatoblastoma (HB). Serum samples were collected from 71 HB patients (stage I, n = 19; stage II, n = 19, stage III, n = 19; and stage IV, n = 14) and 23 age- and sex-matched healthy children. Differential expression of serum protein markers were screened using surface-enhanced laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (SELDI-TOF-MS), and the target proteins were isolated and purified using HPLC and identified using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS), SEQUEST, and bioinformatics analysis. Differential protein expression was confirmed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent analysis (ELISA). SELDI-TOF-MS screening identified a differentially expressed protein with an m/z of 9348 Da, which was subsequently identified as Apo A–I; its expression was significantly lower in the HB group as compared to the normal control group (1546.67 ± 757.81 vs. 3359.21 ± 999.36, respectively; p < 0.01). Although the expression level decreased with increasing disease stage, pair-wise comparison revealed significant differences in Apo A–I expression between the normal group and the HB subgroups (p < 0.01). ELISA verified the reduced expression of Apo A–I in the HB group. Taken together, these results suggest that Apo A–I may represent a serum protein biomarker of HB. Further studies will assess the value of using Apo A–I expression for HB diagnosis and staging.
Identifying Travel Mode with GPS Data Using Support Vector Machines and Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Zong Fang , Bai Yu , Wang Xiao , Yuan Yixin , He Yanan
Published: June 2015

Travel mode identification is one of the essential steps in travel information detection with Global Positioning System (GPS) survey data. This paper presents a Support Vector Classification (SVC) model for travel mode identification with GPS data. Genetic algorithm (GA) is employed for optimizing the parameters in the model. The travel modes of walking, bicycle, subway, bus, and car are recognized in this model. The results indicate that the developed model shows a high level of accuracy for mode identification. The estimation results also present GA’s contribution to the optimization of the model. The findings can be used to identify travel mode based on GPS survey data, which will significantly enhance the efficiency and accuracy of travel survey and data processing. By providing crucial trip information, the results also contribute to the modeling and analyzing of travel behavior and are readily applicable to a wide range of transportation practices.
CIMS: A Context-Based Intelligent Multimedia System for Ubiquitous Cloud Computing
Authors: Sreeramaneni Abhilash , Im Hyungjin , Kang Won , Koh Chan , Park Jong
Published: June 2015

Mobile users spend a tremendous amount of time surfing multimedia contents over the Internet to pursue their interests. A resource-constrained smart device demands more intensive computing tasks and lessens the battery life. To address the resource limitations (i.e., memory, lower maintenance cost, easier access, computing tasks) in mobile devices, mobile cloud computing is needed. Several approaches have been proposed to confront the challenges of mobile cloud computing, but difficulties still remain. However, in the coming years, context collecting, processing, and interchanging the results on a heavy network will cause vast computations and reduce the battery life in mobiles. In this paper, we propose a “context-based intelligent multimedia system” (CIMS) for ubiquitous cloud computing. The main goal of this research is to lessen the computing percentage, storage complexities, and battery life for mobile users by using pervasive cloud computing. Moreover, to reduce the computing and storage concerns in mobiles, the cloud server collects several groups of user profiles with similarities by executing K-means clustering on users’ data (context and multimedia contents). The distribution process conveys real-time notifications to smartphone users, according to what is stated in his/her profile. We considered a mobile cloud offloading system, which decides the offloading actions to/from cloud servers. Context-aware decision-making (CAD) customizes the mobile device performance with different specifications such as short response time and lesser energy consumption. The analysis says that our CIMS takes advantage of cost-effective features to produce high-quality information for mobile (or smart device) users in real time. Moreover, our CIMS lessens the computation and storage complexities for mobile users, as well as cloud servers. Simulation analysis suggests that our approach is more efficient than existing domains.
Quantitative Analysis of Defects at the Dentin-Post Space in Endodontically Treated Teeth
Authors: Di Comite Mariasevera , Crincoli Vito , Fatone Laura , Ballini Andrea , Mori Giorgio , Rapone Biagio , Boccaccio Antonio , Pappalettere Carmine , Grassi Felice , Favia Angela
Published: June 2015

The objective of this study was to assess frequency and extension of the defects affecting the dentin-post interface after using different combinations of irrigants and sealers. The experimental work was conducted on single-rooted teeth extracted for orthodontic reasons. The specimens were divided into different groups, according to irrigant and endodontic cement utilized, and endodontically instrumented. After fiberglass posts cementation, cross sections were obtained at apical, middle and coronal level of the root and submitted to quantitative analyses. Different types of defects were found: bubbles, bonding defects, polymerization defect, and cement residues. The percent extension of each defect and its frequency were related to the specific irrigant/sealer combination and to the root level. Detachments of the material from dentin were found only at apical and middle levels. Chlorhexidine digluconate seems to have more beneficial effects if compared to sodium hypochlorite: samples prepared with chlorhexidine digluconate showed a higher performance, with roots including null to few defects. In detail, samples treated with chlorhexidine digluconate and Pulp Canal Sealer showed the lowest frequency and the smallest dimension of defects.
Discovery of Novel Small Molecule Anti-HCV Agents via the CypA Inhibitory Mechanism Using O-Acylation-Directed Lead Optimization
Authors: Yan Wenzhong , Qing Jie , Mei Hanbing , Mao Fei , Huang Jin , Zhu Jin , Jiang Hualiang , Liu Lei , Zhang Linqi , Li Jian
Published: June 2015

In this work, the relationship between cyclophilin A (CypA) and HCV prompted us to screen a series of small molecule CypA inhibitors which were previously reported by our group. Among them, compound 1, discovered as a non-immunosuppressive anti-HCV agent with an EC50 value of 0.67 μM in a virus assay, was selected for further study. Subsequent chemical modification by O-acylation led to a novel class of molecules, among which compound 25 demonstrated the most potent anti-HCV activity in the virus assay (EC50 = 0.19 μM), but low cytotoxicity and hERG cardiac toxicity. The following studies (a solution stability assay and a simple pharmacokinetic test together with a CypA enzyme inhibition assay) preliminarily indicated that 25 was a prodrug of 1. To the best of our knowledge, 25 is probably the most potent currently reported small molecule anti-HCV agent acting via the CypA inhibitory mechanism. Consequently, our study has provided a new potential small molecule for curing HCV infection.
Non-Conventional Yeasts Whole Cells as Efficient Biocatalysts for the Production of Flavors and Fragrances
Authors: Forti Luca , Di Mauro Simone , Cramarossa Maria , Filippucci Sara , Turchetti Benedetta , Buzzini Pietro
Published: June 2015

The rising consumer requests for natural flavors and fragrances have generated great interest in the aroma industry to seek new methods to obtain fragrance and flavor compounds naturally. An alternative and attractive route for these compounds is based on bio-transformations. In this review, the application of biocatalysis by Non Conventional Yeasts (NCYs) whole cells for the production of flavor and fragrances is illustrated by a discussion of the production of different class of compounds, namely Aldehydes, Ketones and related compounds, Alcohols, Lactones, Terpenes and Terpenoids, Alkenes, and Phenols.
Kinetic Uptake Studies of Powdered Materials in Solution
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed , Wilson Lee
Published: June 2015

Challenges exist for the study of time dependent sorption processes for heterogeneous systems, especially in the case of dispersed nanomaterials in solvents or solutions because they are not well suited to conventional batch kinetic experiments. In this study, a comparison of batch versus a one-pot setup in two variable configurations was evaluated for the study of uptake kinetics in heterogeneous (solid/solution) systems: (i) conventional batch method; (ii) one-pot system with dispersed adsorbent in solution with a semi-permeable barrier (filter paper or dialysis tubing) for in situ sampling; and (iii) one-pot system with an adsorbent confined in a semi-permeable barrier (dialysis tubing or filter paper barrier) with ex situ sampling. The sorbent systems evaluated herein include several cyclodextrin-based polyurethane materials with two types of phenolic dyes: p-nitrophenol and phenolphthalein. The one-pot kinetics method with in situ (Method ii) or ex situ (Method iii) sampling described herein offers significant advantages for the study of heterogeneous sorption kinetics of highly dispersed sorbent materials with particles sizes across a range of dimensions from the micron to nanometer scale. The method described herein will contribute positively to the development of advanced studies for heterogeneous sorption processes where an assessment of the relative uptake properties is required at different experimental conditions. The results of this study will be advantageous for the study of nanomaterials with significant benefits over batch kinetic studies for a wide range of heterogeneous sorption processes.
Magnetic-Particle-Sensing Based Diagnostic Protocols and Applications
Authors: Takamura Tsukasa , Ko Pil , Sharma Jaiyam , Yukino Ryoji , Ishizawa Shunji , Sandhu Adarsh
Published: June 2015

Magnetic particle-labeled biomaterial detection has attracted much attention in recent years for a number of reasons; easy manipulation by external magnetic fields, easy functionalization of the surface, and large surface-to-volume ratio, to name but a few. In this review, we report on our recent investigations into the detection of nano-sized magnetic particles. First, the detection by Hall magnetic sensor with lock-in amplifier and alternative magnetic field is summarized. Then, our approach to detect sub-200 nm diameter target magnetic particles via relatively large micoro-sized “columnar particles” by optical microscopy is described. Subsequently, we summarize magnetic particle detection based on optical techniques; one method is based on the scattering of the magnetically-assembled nano-sized magnetic bead chain in rotating magnetic fields and the other one is based on the reflection of magnetic target particles and porous silicon. Finally, we report recent works with reference to more familiar industrial products (such as smartphone-based medical diagnosis systems and magnetic removal of unspecific-binded nano-sized particles, or “magnetic washing”).
Design and Development of nEMoS, an All-in-One, Low-Cost, Web-Connected and 3D-Printed Device for Environmental Analysis
Authors: Salamone Francesco , Belussi Lorenzo , Danza Ludovico , Ghellere Matteo , Meroni Italo
Published: June 2015

The Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) refers to the quality of the environment in relation to the health and well-being of the occupants. It is a holistic concept, which considers several categories, each related to a specific environmental parameter. This article describes a low-cost and open-source hardware architecture able to detect the indoor variables necessary for the IEQ calculation as an alternative to the traditional hardware used for this purpose. The system consists of some sensors and an Arduino board. One of the key strengths of Arduino is the possibility it affords of loading the script into the board’s memory and letting it run without interfacing with computers, thus granting complete independence, portability and accuracy. Recent works have demonstrated that the cost of scientific equipment can be reduced by applying open-source principles to their design using a combination of the Arduino platform and a 3D printer. The evolution of the 3D printer has provided a new means of open design capable of accelerating self-directed development. The proposed nano Environmental Monitoring System (nEMoS) instrument is shown to have good reliability and it provides the foundation for a more critical approach to the use of professional sensors as well as for conceiving new scenarios and potential applications.
Signal-to-Noise Enhancement of a Nanospring Redox-Based Sensor by Lock-in Amplification
Authors: Bakharev Pavel , McIlroy David
Published: June 2015

A significant improvement of the response characteristics of a redox chemical gas sensor (chemiresistor) constructed with a single ZnO coated silica nanospring has been achieved with the technique of lock-in signal amplification. The comparison of DC and analog lock-in amplifier (LIA) AC measurements of the electrical sensor response to toluene vapor, at the ppm level, has been conducted. When operated in the DC detection mode, the sensor exhibits a relatively high sensitivity to the analyte vapor, as well as a low detection limit at the 10 ppm level. However, at 10 ppm the signal-to-noise ratio is 5 dB, which is less than desirable. When operated in the analog LIA mode, the signal-to-noise ratio at 10 ppm increases by 30 dB and extends the detection limit to the ppb range.
An Efficient Adaptive Angle-Doppler Compensation Approach for Non-Sidelooking Airborne Radar STAP
Authors: Shen Mingwei , Yu Jia , Wu Di , Zhu Daiyin
Published: June 2015

In this study, the effects of non-sidelooking airborne radar clutter dispersion on space-time adaptive processing (STAP) is considered, and an efficient adaptive angle-Doppler compensation (EAADC) approach is proposed to improve the clutter suppression performance. In order to reduce the computational complexity, the reduced-dimension sparse reconstruction (RDSR) technique is introduced into the angle-Doppler spectrum estimation to extract the required parameters for compensating the clutter spectral center misalignment. Simulation results to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm are presented.
Protein-Protein Interactions of Viroporins in Coronaviruses and Paramyxoviruses: New Targets for Antivirals?
Authors: Torres Jaume , Surya Wahyu , Li Yan , Liu Ding
Published: June 2015

Viroporins are members of a rapidly growing family of channel-forming small polypeptides found in viruses. The present review will be focused on recent structural and protein-protein interaction information involving two viroporins found in enveloped viruses that target the respiratory tract; (i) the envelope protein in coronaviruses and (ii) the small hydrophobic protein in paramyxoviruses. Deletion of these two viroporins leads to viral attenuation in vivo, whereas data from cell culture shows involvement in the regulation of stress and inflammation. The channel activity and structure of some representative members of these viroporins have been recently characterized in some detail. In addition, searches for protein-protein interactions using yeast-two hybrid techniques have shed light on possible functional roles for their exposed cytoplasmic domains. A deeper analysis of these interactions should not only provide a more complete overview of the multiple functions of these viroporins, but also suggest novel strategies that target protein-protein interactions as much needed antivirals. These should complement current efforts to block viroporin channel activity.
Aperçu géographique sur la campagne sud-coréenne. Le village de Su Cheong (A geographic glance at the South Corean country. The village of Su Cheong)
Authors: Balaize Claude
Published: June 2015

Abstract. - In less than 25 years, the Republic of Korea (R.O.K.) became a newly industrial country of first importance. Rural life has been deeply modified but still depends mostly on perfectly worked riceland. The small village of SU CHEONG, in Kyongsangnam-Do, is an example of both ancient and modern rural life.
Civilisation agraire et village clanique en Corée du Sud (Clanic village and rural society in South Corea)
Authors: Balaize Claude , Joon Sun Lee
Published: June 2015

Résumé. — Le néo-confucianisme, la riziculture irriguée et le village clanique sont, surtout à partir du dix-septième siècle, les trois éléments qui fondent la civilisation agraire Coréenne. De ce village clanique reste aujourd'hui, plus qu'une visible traduction dans le paysage agraire, une solidarité de groupe bien faite pour aider à l'insertion dans une société Sud-Coréenne de plus en plus industrialo-urbaine.
Exode rural et dualisme urbain à Dacca (Bangladesh) (Rural migrations and urban dualism in Dacca)
Authors: Jamal Mustapha
Published: June 2015

Abstract. — Rural migrations in Bangladesh (except for the feminine migrations for wedding) consist mostly in migrations to Dacca. The poorest landless farmers come to the « Old Town », while the sons of the richest farmers come to the «New Town». Urban dualism, then reflects the inequality of rural society.
Mandal Para (Bangladesh)
Authors: Denamur Xavier
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - Monographie d'un «para» du Nord du Bangladesh. Etude de l'agriculture et du calendrier agricole.
Cartes d'une petite ville du Tamilnadu en 1970 (Maps of a little town in Tamilnadu)
Authors: Pierre A.M. , Charleux Jean-Louis , Pietri René
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - Présentation de cartes établies en 1970 d'une petite ville du Tamilnadu (République indienne) : Tindivan. Etude des activités économiques et des structures sociales.
Du cotton belt au poultry belt (From the cotton belt to the poultry belt)
Authors: Charvet Jean-paul , Dorel Gérard
Published: June 2015

Abstract. - Poultry meat consumption and production have been developing sharply in the United States since world war II. The results have been a more and more important consolidation of the production lines framing the breeding activities, and of the breeding activities themselves, and a strong increase of poultry meat production in numerous areas of the former cotton belt.
La forêt et la guerre. Un exemple de sylvofaciès sur les champs de bataille de l'Argonne (Forest and war. A sylvofacies in Argonne, the battlefields of the First World War)
Authors: Amat Jean-Paul
Published: June 2015

Abstract. - This paper looks at the problem of relations between nature and society through the method of sylvofacies analysis. It is applied to a forest crop in the french Argonne region, a battlefield of the First World War.
La populiculture. Entre exigences écologiques, conditions économiques et pesanteurs sociologiques (Poplar forestry, between ecological factors, economical conditions and sociological pressure)
Authors: Arnould Paul , Daquin J.-P. , Derrioz P. , Fidon M.
Published: June 2015

Abstract. - Poplar forestry is studied as a symbol of the new forests. Functioning on the model of industrial agriculture, it offers undeniable successes and obvious failures. The reasons of these contradictions are investigated in an analysis of poplar forestry on different scales : world, national, départemental, local. The ecological data is better and better known, the economical conditions are more and more quantified, but the sociological context of poplar forestry remains generally less investigated.
L'héritage forestier prussien en Moselle et son évolution récente (Prussian inheritance in forestry in the department of Moselle)
Authors: Husson Jean-Pierre
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - L'annexion de 1871 entraîne une transformation durable de la sylviculture et de la gestion des forêts soumises. Après 1918, l'Alsace-Lorraine hérite d'une réglementation particulière, bénéfique. Elle demeure dans l'ensemble efficace mais risque, à l'avenir, de présenter quelques faiblesses.
Qu'est-ce qu'une population insulaire aujourd'hui ? Le cas d'Ouessant (What is an island's population to-day ? The case of Ushant)
Authors: Péron Françoise
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - La population d'Ouessant est en totale mutation. L'enquête réalisée durant l'été 1987 permet de mesurer l'attraction insulaire, de définir les formes d'intégration à un territoire et de cerner la nouvelle «diaspora » ouessantine : groupe humain composite à double appartenance, insulaire et continentale. L'île est aujourd'hui un centre vieilli au cœur d'une dynamique démographique qui concerne un espace plus large. Cette approche globale de la diaspora insulaire aboutit à l'ébauche d'une méthode de saisie d'une population dans ses mouvements et à la définition du phénomène insulaire dans son expression contemporaine.
Des limites de l'insularité. Le cas de Wallis (Polynésie) (About the notion of insularity. The case of Wallis French Polynesia)
Authors: Saussol Alain
Published: June 2015

Abstract. - The author shows the economic dependancy of the island of Wallis and the necessity of emigration. The continued growth of the wallisian population forbids return migrations, because home production is still too low. The author thinks that the main reason of this situation is the underdevelopment, and not the insularity.
Contribution à l'histoire de la bibliographie sur P. Vidal de la Blache (A contribution to the history of bibliography about P. Vidal de la Blache)
Authors: Pinchemel Philippe
Published: June 2015

Résumé. - Essai d'histoire et de typologie bibliographiques à propos de P. Vidal de la Blache. Classement chronologique et distinction de cinq périodes. Diversité des curiosités, des centres d'intérêt et des interprétations. L'œuvre et l'homme suscitent un intérêt croissant contradictoire.
La mystique et l’institution : les ressources de la spiritualité jésuite
Authors: Lu Jin
Published: June 2015

Les références intellectuelles dont se revendique le pape François rassemblent la littérature et la mystique, notamment à travers l’œuvre de Michel de Certeau. Mais que nous disent-elles de sa manière de voir l’avenir de l’Église dont il a la charge ? Une pensée « ouverte » pour une Église « en chemin » : une telle ligne de conduite permettra-t-elle de surmonter des blocages actuels, comme ceux qui opposent la Chine au Vatican ?
Bitcoin : bulle ou révolution ?
Authors: Durana Gabrielle
Published: June 2015

Échapper aux banques : une utopie qui a retrouvé de sa vigueur au lendemain de la crise des subprime et a donné naissance au « bitcoin », une monnaie numérique sur laquelle ont très vite commencé les spéculations, financières et autres. Mais quelle est la portée réelle de cette invention ?
Les enfants-loups de Lituanie
Authors: Demeure Brigitte
Published: June 2015

Les enfants-loups sont les milliers d’enfants allemands de Prusse orientale qui ont fui et erré en Lituanie de 1945 à 1948. Ils ont tout perdu : famille, patrie, langue maternelle et jusqu’à leur nom. Il leur était interdit de parler de ce qui leur était arrivé et ce n’est qu’à partir de 1991 que l’omerta a cessé. Ils constituent alors l’association « Edelweiss ». Comment ont-ils fait pour survire à cette tragédie ? Sur quelle base a été créé ce grand groupe Edelweiss, avec quels effets de répétition ? Les outils conceptuels développés par V. Volkan permettent de contribuer à éclaircir ces questions.
La mutualité traumatique Une figure de la traversée du cancer lors de l’enfance
Authors: Araneda Marco
Published: June 2015

Cet article définit et analyse la notion de « mutualité traumatique » dans le contexte de l’onco-hématologie pédiatrique. L’auteur cherche à comprendre la coexistence et la persistance, chez des enfants ayant traversé un cancer, d’un ensemble d’états émotionnels liés aux différents moments de l’épreuve somatique. Il analyse comment cette diversité se déploie dans cette clinique singulière, mais se retrouve aussi dans d’autres cliniques de l’extrême. Enfin, il s’agit d’explorer la fonction de ce phénomène en tant que résistance contre les changements identitaires déclenchés par la maladie.
Témoigner du travail en CATTP : de la dimension multifocale à l’être sujet
Authors: Gozlan Angélique , Avellino Patricia , Bougathene Malika , Marchand Gisèle , Perreira Crémilde , Safrana-Cantet Sabine , Tallarini Christelle
Published: June 2015

Le CATTP est une institution de soins pour enfants qui propose un travail multifocal et multidisciplinaire. Cet article se veut être un témoignage de la prise en charge d’enfants présentant des troubles envahissants du développement ou des dysharmonies évolutives au CATTP de Bobigny. L’équipe rend compte du travail inter-groupal avec le CMP et l’école mais aussi des enjeux psychiques au sein des groupes thérapeutiques.
Is Judgment Fatigable?
Authors: Bolton Patrick , Thornthwaite Louise
Published: June 2015

Decision fatigue theory asserts that judgment wanes with repeated decision-making because mental resources are depleted. Management consultants and journalists have taken up this concept with considerable vigour, based on limited empirical evidence. This paper challenges that theory. The authors' study sought to demonstrate decision fatigue in public sector employee selection panels composed of multiple decision makers who made multiple serial decisions. They found little evidence that the judgment of individual decision makers was swayed by fatigue.
Simulation Based Design for Adaptive Multi-Agent Systems with the ADELFE Methodology
Authors: Mefteh Wafa , Migeon Frédéric , Gleizes Marie-Pierre , Gargouri Faiez
Published: June 2015

Complex systems are qualified by the heterogeneity of the involved actors, the large mass of data, the distribution of the manipulated information and the dynamic of the environment in which they are immersed. Designing such systems necessitate theory and methodology. This paper is situated in the AMAS theory and the ADELFE methodology. The AMAS theory (Adaptive Multi-Agent System) was proposed to model complex systems. The ADELFE methodology was proposed to guide the AMAS designer. Building AMAS systems is not an easy task. The objective of the authors' work is to make the task of the AMAS designer less difficult. This paper details two main contributions that the authors proposed in this field. The first contribution consists in improving the ADELFE methodology by simulation techniques. The second contribution consists in enhancing the AMAS agent behavior by giving it the ability to self-design.
Do Opposites Attract?
Authors: Freiermuth Mark R. , Huang Hsin-Chou
Published: June 2015

This study discusses the results of an online intercultural chat task designed to see whether students from different cultural backgrounds, with different English language abilities, with different L1s and who had different academic interests would be willing to communicate using English—the target language. Taiwanese university students who were marine science majors (lower proficiency) chatted electronically in small groups with Japanese university students who had been studying English intensively for two years (higher proficiency). Student comments taken from a questionnaire indicate that both groups were invigorated and willing to communicate by the task; it was considered meaningful because it provided an opportunity to use English in a realistic way, represented the only means to communicate with their overseas partners and helped students to empathize with their newly found peers. To sum up briefly, text-based chat can be useful for EFL and ESL teachers as a tool for language learning students, providing learners with “real” target language opportunities for communication.
Implementation of an Immersive Videogame
Authors: Hernández Rubén Jesús García , Benítez Antonio Rodríguez , González Juan Manuel García , Magdics Milán , Bekaert Philippe , Sbert Mateu
Published: June 2015

Legends of Girona is a serious game which can be used to teach local history to students in the province of Girona in Spain. The game is a graphic adventure taking place in both present-day and medieval Girona. The authors describe in this paper the design of the game, including aspects related to artificial intelligence, advanced computer graphics, exergaming, mobile platforms and immersive devices. A collection of different devices is supported, including input devices such as head trackers and output devices such as cylindrical and spherical domes, immersapods, and 3D helmets. The authors provide an overview of all the stages required for the configuration of immersive devices (calibration procedure, adaptation and rendering). They also present some directions of future work.
Modelling a Human-Like Bot in a First Person Shooter Game
Authors: Mora Antonio Miguel , Aisa Francisco , García-Sánchez Pablo , Castillo Pedro Ángel , Merelo Juan Julián
Published: June 2015

Autonomous agents in videogames, usually called bots, have tried to behave as human players from their emergence more than 20 years ago. They normally try to model a part of a human expert player's knowledge with respect to the game, trying to become a competitive opponent or a good partner for other players. This paper presents a deep description of the design of a bot for playing 1 vs. 1 Death Match mode in the first person shooter Unreal Tournament™ 2004 (UT2K4). This bot uses a state-based Artificial Intelligence model which emulates a big part of the behavior/knowledge (actions and tricks) of an expert human player in this mode. This player has participated in international UT2K4 championships. The behavioral engine considers primary and secondary actions, and uses a memory approach. It is based in an auxiliary database for learning about the fighting arena, so it stores weapons and items locations once the bot has discovered them, as a human player would do. This so-called Expert Bot has yielded excellent results, beating the game default bots even in the hardest difficulty, and being a very hard opponent for medium-level human players.
A Virtual Reality Drumkit Simulator System with a Kinect Device
Authors: Rosa-Pujazón Alejandro , Barbancho Isabel , Tardón Lorenzo J. , Barbancho Ana M.
Published: June 2015

In this paper, an implementation of a virtual reality based application for drumkit simulation is presented. The system tracks user motion through the use of a Kinect camera sensor, and recognizes and detects user-generated drum-hitting gestures in real-time. In order to compensate the effects of latency in the sensing stage and provide real-time interaction, the system uses a gesture detection model to predict user movements. The paper discusses the use of two different machine learning based solutions to this problem: the first one is based on the analysis of velocity and acceleration peaks, the other solution is based on Wiener filtering. This gesture detector was tested and integrated into a full implementation of a drumkit simulator, capable of discriminating up to 3, 5 or 7 different drum sounds. An experiment with 14 participants was conducted to assess the system's viability and impact on user experience and satisfaction.
Impact of extrafloral nectar availability and plant genotype on ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) visitation to quaking aspen (Salicaceae)
Authors: Newman Jonathon R. , Wagner Diane , Doak Patricia
Published: June 2015

For quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides Michaux; Salicaceae) the rate of extrafloral (EF) sugar secretion is increased by defoliation and decreased by drought. Although wholesale blocking of EF nectar has been shown to reduce ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) visitation to aspen, the effect of more subtle and realistic variations in nectar availability on ant recruitment is unknown. Working in Alaskan boreal forest (United States of America), we reduced and supplemented EF nectar availability on potted aspen ramets of three genotypes and surveyed visitation by free-living Formica fusca (Linnaeus) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Ants were more responsive to a subtle increase in sugar availability than to a decrease. While nectar reduction had no effect on ant visitation, nectar supplementation increased ant visitation to one aspen genotype by 70% during an early summer trial. Average ant visitation to different aspen genotypes varied during the late summer, indicating that aspen genotype can influence attractiveness to ants. We conclude that natural induction of EF secretion in response to herbivory may benefit aspen through improved ant recruitment, though the response is dependent on aspen genotype and time of year. Differences among aspen genets in attractiveness to ants could influence the relative success of genotypes, especially in settings in which aspen regenerates from seed.
Critical Roles of Chemoresistant Effector and Regulatory T Cells in Antitumor Immunity after Lymphodepleting Chemotherapy
Authors: Saida Yu , Watanabe Satoshi , Tanaka Tomohiro , Baba Junko , Sato Ko , Shoji Satoshi , Igarashi Natsue , Kondo Rie , Okajima Masaaki , Koshio Jun , Ichikawa Kosuke , Nozaki Koichiro , Ishikawa Daisuke , Koya Toshiyuki , Miura Satoru , Tanaka Junta , Kagamu Hiroshi , Yoshizawa Hirohisa , Nakata Koh , Narita Ichiei
Published: June 2015

Antitumor immunity is augmented by cytotoxic lymphodepletion therapies. Adoptively transferred naive and effector T cells proliferate extensively and show enhanced antitumor effects in lymphopenic recipients. Although the impact of lymphodepletion on transferred donor T cells has been well evaluated, its influence on recipient T cells is largely unknown. The current study demonstrates that both regulatory T cells (Tregs) and effector CD8+ T cells from lymphopenic recipients play critical roles in the development of antitumor immunity after lymphodepletion. Cyclophosphamide (CPA) treatment depleted lymphocytes more efficiently than other cytotoxic agents; however, the percentage of CD4+CD25+ Foxp3+ Tregs was significantly increased in CPA-treated lymphopenic mice. Depletion of these chemoresistant Tregs following CPA treatment and transfer of naive CD4+ T cells augmented the antitumor immunity and significantly suppressed tumor progression. Further analyses revealed that recipient CD8+ T cells were responsible for this augmentation. Using Rag2−/− mice or depletion of recipient CD8+ T cells after CPA treatment abrogated the augmentation of antitumor effects in CPA-treated reconstituted mice. The transfer of donor CD4+ T cells enhanced the proliferation of CD8+ T cells and the priming of tumor-specific CD8+ T cells originating from the lymphopenic recipients. These results highlight the importance of the recipient cells surviving cytotoxic regimens in cancer immunotherapies.
CARMA3 Is Critical for the Initiation of Allergic Airway Inflammation
Authors: Causton Benjamin , Ramadas Ravisankar A. , Cho Josalyn L. , Jones Khristianna , Pardo-Saganta Ana , Rajagopal Jayaraj , Xavier Ramnik J. , Medoff Benjamin D.
Published: June 2015

Innate immune responses to allergens by airway epithelial cells (AECs) help initiate and propagate the adaptive immune response associated with allergic airway inflammation in asthma. Activation of the transcription factor NF-κB in AECs by allergens or secondary mediators via G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs) is an important component of this multifaceted inflammatory cascade. Members of the caspase recruitment domain family of proteins display tissue-specific expression and help mediate NF-κB activity in response to numerous stimuli. We have previously shown that caspase recruitment domain–containing membrane-associated guanylate kinase protein (CARMA)3 is specifically expressed in AECs and mediates NF-κB activation in these cells in response to stimulation with the GPCR agonist lysophosphatidic acid. In this study, we demonstrate that reduced levels of CARMA3 in normal human bronchial epithelial cells decreases the production of proasthmatic mediators in response to a panel of asthma-relevant GPCR ligands such as lysophosphatidic acid, adenosine triphosphate, and allergens that activate GPCRs such as Alternaria alternata and house dust mite. We then show that genetically modified mice with CARMA3-deficient AECs have reduced airway eosinophilia and proinflammatory cytokine production in a murine model of allergic airway inflammation. Additionally, we demonstrate that these mice have impaired dendritic cell maturation in the lung and that dendritic cells from mice with CARMA3-deficient AECs have impaired Ag processing. In conclusion, we show that AEC CARMA3 helps mediate allergic airway inflammation, and that CARMA3 is a critical signaling molecule bridging the innate and adaptive immune responses in the lung.
Vitamin E Isoform γ-Tocotrienol Downregulates House Dust Mite–Induced Asthma
Authors: Peh Hong Yong , Ho Wanxing Eugene , Cheng Chang , Chan Tze Khee , Seow Ann Ching Genevieve , Lim Albert Y. H. , Fong Chee Wai , Seng Kok Yong , Ong Choon Nam , Wong W. S. Fred
Published: June 2015

Inflammation and oxidative damage contribute to the pathogenesis of asthma. Although corticosteroid is the first-line treatment for asthma, a subset of patients is steroid resistant, and chronic steroid use causes side effects. Because vitamin E isoform γ-tocotrienol possesses both antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, we sought to determine protective effects of γ-tocotrienol in a house dust mite (HDM) experimental asthma model. BALB/c mice were sensitized and challenged with HDM. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid was assessed for total and differential cell counts, oxidative damage biomarkers, and cytokine levels. Lungs were examined for cell infiltration and mucus hypersecretion, as well as the expression of antioxidants and proinflammatory biomarkers. Sera were assayed for IgE and γ-tocotrienol levels. Airway hyperresponsiveness in response to methacholine was measured. γ-Tocotrienol displayed better free radical–neutralizing activity in vitro and inhibition of BAL fluid total, eosinophil, and neutrophil counts in HDM mouse asthma in vivo, as compared with other vitamin E isoforms, including α-tocopherol. Besides, γ-tocotrienol abated HDM-induced elevation of BAL fluid cytokine and chemokine levels, total reactive oxygen species and oxidative damage biomarker levels, and of serum IgE levels, but it promoted lung-endogenous antioxidant activities. Mechanistically, γ-tocotrienol was found to block nuclear NF-κB level and enhance nuclear Nrf2 levels in lung lysates to greater extents than did α-tocopherol and prednisolone. More importantly, γ-tocotrienol markedly suppressed methacholine-induced airway hyperresponsiveness in experimental asthma. To our knowledge, we have shown for the first time the protective actions of vitamin E isoform γ-tocotrienol in allergic asthma.
Pollensomes as Natural Vehicles for Pollen Allergens
Authors: Prado Noela , De Linares Concepción , Sanz María L. , Gamboa Pedro , Villalba Mayte , Rodríguez Rosalía , Batanero Eva
Published: June 2015

Olive (Olea europaea) pollen constitutes one of the most important allergen sources in the Mediterranean countries and some areas of the United States, South Africa, and Australia. Recently, we provided evidence that olive pollen releases nanovesicles of respirable size, named generically pollensomes, during in vitro germination. Olive pollensomes contain allergens, such as Ole e 1, Ole e 11, and Ole e 12, suggesting a possible role in allergy. The aim of this study was to assess the contribution of pollensomes to the allergic reaction. We show that pollensomes exhibit allergenic activity in terms of patients’ IgE-binding capacity, human basophil activation, and positive skin reaction in sensitized patients. Furthermore, allergen-containing pollensomes have been isolated from three clinically relevant nonphylogenetically related species: birch (Betula verrucosa), pine (Pinus sylvestris), and ryegrass (Lolium perenne). Most interesting, pollensomes were isolated from aerobiological samples collected with an eight-stage cascade impactor collector, indicating that pollensomes secretion is a naturally occurring phenomenon. Our findings indicate that pollensomes may represent widespread vehicles for pollen allergens, with potential implications in the allergic reaction.
Paul’s community formation in 1 Thessalonians: The creation of symbolic boundaries
Authors: Cho Kwanghyun , Van Eck Ernest , Wepener Cas
Published: June 2015

This article presents how Paul, in 1 Thessalonians, executes the process of the formation of the Thessalonian community. Using the sociological concept of symbolic boundaries, it is argued that the resources – (1) the kerygmatic narrative, (2) the local narratives, and (3) the ethical norms – that Paul incorporates into the letter take an essential role to promote the converts to derive a cooperative identity from the community to which they belong and to strengthen the distinction between them and the larger society. By providing internal consensus and external separation, the resources serve to construct and maintain the Thessalonian community that is internally united and externally distinct.