bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Doctoral Dissertations on Mission: Ten-Year Update, 1982–1991
Authors: Smalley William A.
Published: January 2016

Ten years ago the International Bulletin of Missionary Research published a directory of 934 doctoral dissertations on mission-related subjects at theological schools and universities in the United States and Canada. Almost four decades of research were covered, from 1945 through 1982. In this issue we are pleased to present another directory of 512 North American dissertations for the decade 1982–1991.

The compiler of the directory and author of the article below is William A. Smalley, a friend and colleague of many years' standing. Now retired in Hamden, Connecticut, he is a near neighbor of the Overseas Ministries Study Center. For twenty-three years Dr. Smalley was a translation consultant with the United Bible Societies, serving primarily in Southeast Asia. During part of that period he also edited Practical Anthropology, and for a time he was principal of the Toronto Institute of Linguistics, which prepares missionary candidates for language and culture learning. Earlier Smalley was a missionary linguist with the Christian and Missionary Alliance in Laos and Vietnam. His most recent book is Translation as Mission: Bible Translation in the Modern Missionary Movement (Macon, Georgia: Mercer University Press, 1991). The Editors
Conversion and Community: Revisiting the Lesslie Newbigin—M. M. Thomas Debate
Authors: Hunsberger George R.
Published: January 2016

In India in the late 1960s and early 1970s, Bishop Lesslie Newbigin and M. M. Thomas debated the nature of conversion and Christian community. The importance of the subject was underlined by the findings of sociological research that in major urban centers such as Madras there were thousands of Indians who believed in “Jesus as the only God” though they had no visible connection with the Christian church. The Bangalore theologian Kaj Baago sharpened the issue by asking, “Must Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims become Christians in order to belong to Christ?” Baago wished to advocate the kind of Christian witness that might lead to “the creation of Hindu Christianity or Buddhist Christianity.”

On the occasion of the March 1966 Nasrapur Consultation on mission Newbigin launched the debate by responding. first to Baago. By 1969 the debate became focused in published discussions between Newbigin and his friend M. M. Thomas. The following essay reacquaints us with the issues as Newbigin and Thomas saw them. As we approach the twenty-first century in Christian mission, the issues taken up in the Newbigin-Thomas debate remain as relevant as ever.
Positioning LAM for the Twenty-First Century
Authors: Pretiz Paul E. , Roberts W. Dayton
Published: January 2016

In 1921 Harry and Susan Strachan founded the Latin America Mission (LAM), originally the Latin America Evangelization Campaign, to conduct cooperative evangelistic efforts in the Spanish-speaking world. Headquartered in Miami, LAM is engaged not only in direct evangelism but also in supportive ministries (a seminary, schools, literature, radio) and ministries reflecting holistic concerns (a hospital, care for high-risk children). Approximately 300 LAM missionaries are at work in twelve countries. U.S. address: LAM, Box 52-7900, Miami, FL 33152.
SIM's Agenda for a Gracious Revolution
Authors: Plueddemann Jim
Published: January 2016

Founded in Canada by Rowland Bingham in 1893 as Sudan Interior Mission, today the Society for International Ministries (SIM) has 1,800 missionaries working in 43 countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Members of SIM come from 33 different countries and more than 50 denominations and represent nine national sending offices: Australia, Canada, England, Korea, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, and the United States. About 15,000 local churches, with 10 million members and adherents, have been founded by SIM. SIM missionaries are engaged in a variety of ministries such as evangelism, community service (hospitals, agriculture, microenterprise, and community development), theological education and leadership training (225 institutions), Bible translation, radio broadcasting, literature, and schools for missionary children (28). U.S. address: SIM International, Inc., 1075 Maxwell Mill Rd., Fort Mill, SC 29715.
The clinical significance of EBV DNA in the plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with or without EBV diseases
Authors: Kanakry Jennifer A. , Hegde Aparna M. , Durand Christine M. , Massie Allan B. , Greer Amy E. , Ambinder Richard F. , Valsamakis Alexandra
Published: January 2016

Key Points

Cell-free (plasma) EBV DNA performs better than cellular EBV DNA as a marker of a broad range of EBV+ diseases. Within a largely immunocompromised and hospitalized cohort, detection of EBV DNA in plasma is uncommon in the absence of EBV+ disease.
CD4+ T cells from patients with acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura recognize CUB2 domain-derived peptides
Authors: Verbij Fabian C. , Turksma Annelies W. , de Heij Femke , Kaijen Paul , Lardy Neubury , Fijnheer Rob , Sorvillo Nicoletta , ten Brinke Anja , Voorberg Jan
Published: January 2016

Key Points

CD4+ T-cell responses in 2 patients with acquired TTP. CUB2 domain-derived core peptides are recognized by CD4+ T cells present in 2 patients with acquired TTP.
NLRP3 inflammasome expression in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and rheumatoid lung
Authors: Lasithiotaki Ismini , Giannarakis Ioannis , Tsitoura Eliza , Samara Katerina D. , Margaritopoulos George A. , Choulaki Christiana , Vasarmidi Eirini , Tzanakis Nikolaos , Voloudaki Argyro , Sidiropoulos Prodromos , Siafakas Nikolaos M. , Antoniou Katerina M.
Published: January 2016

In this study we investigated the implication of NLRP3 inflammasomes in the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and rheumatoid arthritis–usual interstitial pneumonia (RA-UIP).

NLRP3 inflammasome activation at baseline and following stimulation with lipopolysaccharide/ATP was evaluated by measuring interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 levels released in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) fluid and by cultures of BALF cells. IL-1β and IL-18 levels were significantly elevated in the BALF and BALF macrophage cultures from RA-UIP patients, consistent with pre-existing inflammasome activation in these patients. In contrast, in IPF, BALF levels of IL-1β were significantly less elevated relative to RA-UIP and IL-18 was lower than controls. Furthermore, upon inflammasome stimulation, IPF BALF macrophage cultures failed to upregulate IL-1β and partly IL-18 secretion, in contrast to controls, which showed robust IL-1β and IL-18 upregulation. Interestingly, RA-UIP BALF cell cultures treated with lipopolysaccharide/ATP showed a potent stimulation of IL-18 secretion but not IL-1β, the latter being already elevated in the unstimulated cultures, while examination of the intracellular IL-1β levels in RA-UIP BALF cells upon NLRP3 inflammasome stimulation showed a significant upregulation of IL-1β suggesting the NLRP3 pathway could be further activated.

Taken together, our results suggest distinct inflammasome activation profiles between autoimmune and idiopathic lung fibrosis.
Comparison of risk assessment strategies for not-high-risk pulmonary embolism
Authors: Hobohm Lukas , Hellenkamp Kristian , Hasenfuß Gerd , Münzel Thomas , Konstantinides Stavros , Lankeit Mareike
Published: January 2016

We compared the prognostic performance of the 2014 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) risk stratification algorithm with the previous 2008 ESC algorithm, the Bova score and the modified FAST score (based on a positive heart-type fatty acid-binding protein (H-FABP) test, syncope and tachycardia, modified using high-sensitivity troponin T instead of H-FABP) in 388 normotensive pulmonary embolism patients included in a single-centre cohort study.

Overall, 25 patients (6.4%) had an adverse 30-day outcome. Regardless of the score or algorithm used, the rate of an adverse outcome was highest in the intermediate-high-risk classes, while all patients classified as low-risk had a favourable outcome (no pulmonary embolism-related deaths, 0–1.4% adverse outcome). The area under the curve for predicting an adverse outcome was higher for the 2014 ESC algorithm (0.76, 95% CI 0.68–0.84) compared with the 2008 ESC algorithm (0.65, 95% CI 0.56–0.73) and highest for the modified FAST score (0.82, 95% CI 0.75–0.89). Patients classified as intermediate-high-risk by the 2014 ESC algorithm had a 8.9-fold increased risk for an adverse outcome (3.2–24.2, p<0.001 compared with intermediate-low- and low-risk patients), while the highest OR was observed for a modified FAST score ≥3 points (OR 15.9, 95% CI 5.3–47.6, p<0.001).

The 2014 ESC algorithm improves risk stratification of not-high-risk pulmonary embolism compared with the 2008 ESC algorithm. All scores and algorithms accurately identified low-risk patients, while the modified FAST score appears more suitable to identify intermediate-high-risk patients.
Integrating 400 million variants from 80,000 human samples with extensive annotations: towards a knowledge base to analyze disease cohorts
Authors: Hakenberg Jörg , Cheng Wei-Yi , Thomas Philippe , Wang Ying-Chih , Uzilov Andrew V. , Chen Rong
Published: January 2016

Background

Data from a plethora of high-throughput sequencing studies is readily available to researchers, providing genetic variants detected in a variety of healthy and disease populations. While each individual cohort helps gain insights into polymorphic and disease-associated variants, a joint perspective can be more powerful in identifying polymorphisms, rare variants, disease-associations, genetic burden, somatic variants, and disease mechanisms.

Description

We have set up a Reference Variant Store (RVS) containing variants observed in a number of large-scale sequencing efforts, such as 1000 Genomes, ExAC, Scripps Wellderly, UK10K; various genotyping studies; and disease association databases. RVS holds extensive annotations pertaining to affected genes, functional impacts, disease associations, and population frequencies. RVS currently stores 400 million distinct variants observed in more than 80,000 human samples.

Conclusions

RVS facilitates cross-study analysis to discover novel genetic risk factors, gene–disease associations, potential disease mechanisms, and actionable variants. Due to its large reference populations, RVS can also be employed for variant filtration and gene prioritization.

Availability

A web interface to public datasets and annotations in RVS is available at https://rvs.u.hpc.mssm.edu/.
Infancy-Onset T1DM, Short Stature, and Severe Immunodysregulation in Two Siblings With a Homozygous LRBA Mutation
Authors: Schreiner Felix , Plamper Michaela , Dueker Gesche , Schoenberger Stefan , Gámez-Díaz Laura , Grimbacher Bodo , Hilger Alina C. , Gohlke Bettina , Reutter Heiko , Woelfle Joachim
Published: January 2016

Context:

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is caused by autoimmunity against pancreatic β-cells. Although a significant number of T1DM patients have or will develop further autoimmune disorders during their lifetime, coexisting severe immunodysregulation is rare.

Objective:

Presuming autosomal-recessive inheritance in a complex immunodysregulation disorder including T1DM and short stature in two siblings, we performed whole-exome sequencing.

Case Presentation:

Two Libyan siblings born to consanguineous parents were presented to our diabetology department at ages 12 and 5 years, respectively. Apart from T1DM diagnosed at age 2 years, patient 1 suffered from chronic restrictive lung disease, mild enteropathy, hypogammaglobulinemia, and GH deficiency. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis revealed B-cell deficiency. In addition, CD4+/CD25+ and CD25high/FoxP3+ cells were diminished, whereas an unusual CD25−/FoxP3+ population was detectable. The younger brother, patient 2, also developed T1DM during infancy. Although his enteropathy was more severe and electrolyte derangements repeatedly led to hospitalization, he did not have significant pulmonary problems. IgG levels and B-lymphocytes were within normal ranges.

Results:

By whole-exome sequencing we identified a homozygous truncating mutation (c.2445_2447del(C)3ins(C)2, p.P816Lfs*4) in the lipopolysaccharide-responsive beige-like anchor (LRBA) gene in both siblings. The diagnosis of LRBA deficiency was confirmed by a fluorescence-activated cell sorting-based immunoassay showing the absence of LRBA protein in phytohemagglutinin-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

Conclusion:

We identified a novel truncating LRBA mutation in two siblings with T1DM, short stature, and severe immunodysregulation. LRBA mutations have previously been reported to cause multiorgan autoimmunity and immunodysfunction. In light of the variable phenotypes reported so far in LRBA-mutant individuals, LRBA deficiency should be considered in all patients presenting with T1DM and signs of severe immunodysregulation.
Inhibition of cross-species CXCR4 signaling by the small molecule IT1t impairs triple negative breast cancer early metastases in zebrafish
Authors: Tulotta Claudia , Stefanescu Cristina , Beletkaia Elena , Bussmann Jeroen , Tarbashevich Katsiaryna , Schmidt Thomas , Snaar-Jagalska B. Ewa
Published: January 2016

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive and recurrent type of breast carcinoma that is associated with poor patient prognosis. Because of the limited efficacy of current treatments, new therapeutic strategies need to be developed. The CXCR4-CXCL12 chemokine signaling axis guides cell migration in physiological and pathological processes including breast cancer metastases. Although targeted therapies to inhibit the CXCR4-CXCL12 axis are under clinical experimentation, still no effective therapeutic approaches have been established to block CXCR4 in TNBC. To unravel the role of the CXCR4-CXCL12 axis in TNBC early metastasis formation, we used the zebrafish xenograft model. Importantly, we demonstrate that cross communication between the zebrafish and human ligands and receptors takes place and human tumor cells expressing CXCR4 initiate early metastatic events by sensing zebrafish cognate ligands at the metastatic site. Taking advantage of the conserved intercommunication between human tumor cells and the zebrafish host, we blocked TNBC early metastatic events by chemical and genetic inhibition of CXCR4 signaling. We used IT1t, a potent CXCR4 antagonist, and show for the first time its promising anti-tumor effects. In conclusion, we confirm the validity of the zebrafish as a xenotransplantation model and propose a pharmacological approach to target CXCR4 in TNBC.
SMN affects membrane remodelling and anchoring of the protein synthesis machinery
Authors: Francesca Gabanella , Cinzia Pisani , Antonella Borreca , Stefano Farioli-Vecchioli , Teresa Ciotti Maria , Tiziano Ingegnere , Annalisa Onori , Martine Ammassari-Teule , Nicoletta Corbi , Nadia Canu , Lucia Monaco , Claudio Passananti , Grazia Di Certo Maria
Published: January 2016

Disconnection between membrane signalling and actin networks may have catastrophic effects depending on cell size and polarity. The Survival Motor Neuron (SMN) protein is ubiquitously involved in assembly of spliceosomal small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles. Other SMN functions could, however, affect cellular activities driving asymmetrical cell surface expansions. Genes able to mitigate SMN deficiency operate within pathways as part of which SMN can act: mRNA translation, actin network, and endocytosis. Here, we found that SMN accumulates at membrane protrusions during dynamic rearrangement of the actin filament. In addition to localization data, we show that SMN interacts with caveolin-1, which mediates anchoring of translation machinery components. Importantly, SMN deficiency depletes the plasma membrane of ribosomes, and this correlates with the failure of fibroblasts to extend membrane protrusions. These findings strongly support a relationship between SMN and membrane dynamics. We propose that SMN could assembly translational platform associated to and governed by plasma membrane. This activity could be crucial in cells where an exasperated interdependence of membrane remodelling and local protein synthesis takes place.
Mineralogical and geochemical characteristics of the No. 6 coal in the Tanggongta Mine, Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Yuan Yue , Li Yanheng , Fan Jingsen
Published: January 2016

In this paper, the geochemical characteristics of the trace elements of the No. 6 coal seam from Tanggongta mine, Jungar Coalfield, were studied using the methods of an energydispersive X-ray spectrometer (SEM-EDX) analysis, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and X-ray fluorescence spectrometric (XRF) techniques. The content of sulfur ranges from 0.09% to 2.83% (1.09% on average). The ash is from 11.70% to 31.47% (20.72% on average), and the moisture is from 2.72% to 6.82% (4.72% on average). The main minerals are kaolinite, carbonate minerals and pyrite. Compared with the average values of Chinese coal, the contents of Ga, Cd, Tl, Li, Sr, and Ag are high. Compared with the values of world coal, Li and Sr are found at high levels. The distribution mode of the REE shows that LREE is concentrated, but HREE is relatively low. The Yinshan Oldland should be the most likely source of the coal’s Li. The bauxite of the Benxi formation could be another source of the coal’s Li in the NE Jungar Coalfield.
The effects of production parameters on properties of single and 3-layer cement-bonded composites made from oil palm empty fruit bunch and tropical hardwood sawmill residue
Authors: Onuorah E. O. , Okeke C.A. , Nwabanne J. T. , Nnabuife E. L. C. , Obiorah S. O. M.
Published: January 2016

Cement bonded composites of 1250 kg/m3 were made in the laboratory either as single layer composed of exclusively oil palm empty fruit bunch (EFB); Tropical hardwood sawmill residue (THSR) or randomly mixed particles (40% of EFB and 60% of THSR oven dry wt/wt) OR of 3-layer composed of 1:2:1 ratio (for face layer of THSR; core layer of EFB and back layer of THSR particles, wt/wt, respectively). Composites were produced at 4 levels of CaCl2 addition (0, 1, 2 and 3% wt/wt based on cement wt) and 6 levels of initial water content of the cement/aggregate mixture (2.5:1:0.5; 2.5:1:1; 2.5:1:1.5; 2.5:1:2; 2.5:1:2.5 and 2.5:1:3; ratio wt/wt based on cement wt plus oven dry wt of particles). Proximate chemical analysis of representative samples reveal hollocellulose content (77.35 and 74.11%); a-cellulose (43.51 and 52.01%); Hemicellulose (22.9 and 20.2%). Lignin (17.8 and 22.5%); Ash (0.91 and 1.85%) and solubility in Alcohol-benzene (1.6 and 3.98%); cold water (2.42 and 3.15%); Hot water (2.93 and 5.06%); and 1% NaOH (23.4 and 26.11%) respectively for EFB and THSR. Also Morphological studies reveal mean fiber length (1.06 and 1.18mm); Fiber diameter (11.75 and 17.40μm), slenderness ratio (55.79 and 35.98) and Rigidity co-efficient (0.38 and 0.47) respectively for EFB and THSR. The above make both particle sources suitable substitutes for virgin fiber/particles from hardwoods. A total of 192 composites were made representing two panels per production mix. Composites were sampled and tested in accordance with provisions of ASTM D1037-2007. Composite properties ranges are MOR (2.61–20.81 MPa); MOE (2180–5764 MPa); IB (0.28–0.75 MPa). WA (16.41–28.11%) and TS (1.26–5.98%). Properties were evaluated and only production mix that met both the requirements of International Organization for Standardization (10S 8335–1987) and Malaysian Standard Institute (MS 934–1984) were recommended. Acceptable composites were produced from production mix of initial water content ≥1.5 or 30% (based on cement wt + oven dry wt of particles, wt/wt) and 2 or 3% CaCl2 additive in case of single layer composites while ≥ 2 or 36.36% of initial water content is required in 3-layer composite using same additive level. The effects of furnish type and composition, additive level and initial water content on properties were all found significant (P > 0.01) in factorial analysis.
Comparing the generation of electricity from renewable and non-renewable energy sources in Iran and the world: now and future
Authors: Mohsen Mirhabibi , Bagher Askari Mohammad , Reza Bahrampour Mohammad , Vahid Mirzaei Mahmoud abadi , Mahdi Tikdari
Published: January 2016

Regarding the renewable energies, the cost of producing electricity and the remaining reserves from fossil fuels in Iran is compared with the same in other countries. Several advantages of renewable energies are studied in the present research with emphasis on solar energy; the Lut desert in Iran is introduced as a high potential for supplying the country’s energy. Various effects of such generation of energy on economy, environment, and public health are also studied.
Design and Control of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle for Autonomous Parcel Delivery with Transition from Vertical Take-off to Forward Flight – VertiKUL, a Quadcopter Tailsitter
Authors: Hochstenbach Menno , Notteboom Cyriel , Theys Bart , De Schutter Joris
Published: January 2016

This paper presents the design and control of VertiKUL, a Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) transitioning tailsitter Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), capable of hover flight and forward flight for the application of parcel delivery. In contrast to existing transitioning UAVs, VertiKUL is not controlled by control surfaces, but exclusively by four propellers using differential thrust during hover flight, transition and forward flight. A numerical design method optimising range and payload is developed for initial sizing. A simulation model is implemented in Simulink to evaluate different control strategies before conducting test flights. A unique mid-level control strategy enabling intuitive control of VertiKUL which requires no pilot skills is developed. Fluent transition from hover to forward flight is achieved through an autonomous control strategy. Attitude control based on quaternions instead of Euler-angles is implemented to avoid singularities. The resulting design, VertiKUL, is built and test flown.
Resonant Cantilever Wings for Monolithic MAVs
Authors: Minnick M. D. , Goussev A. D. , Kleiman R. N.
Published: January 2016

In this paper we present the concept, fabrication, and testing of resonant cantilever wings for monolithic micro aerial vehicles (MAVs). Combining new analytical and computational fluid dynamic work to determine the resonant mode, forces, and power of resonating curved cantilevers, we present a framework to calculate and optimize robot designs for certain figures of merit (i.e., greatest excess power, smallest size, and fastest time for a swarm to search a volume). The optimization results reveal promising designs on scales ranging from fruit flies to dragonflies with the optimal MAV having a maximum continuous travel speed of 2 m/s, 10 mm wing length, and 9 mg total mass. We then fabricate curved cantilever wings to test the theoretical model, which confirm the resonant frequency, resonant mode shape, power dissipated, and net force generated. This work is the first demonstration of asymmetric force from a symmetric flapping cycle and of the feasibility of curved cantilever wings for completely monolithic MAVs.
Numerical Investigation of Deviation of Phase Change Characteristics of Horizontal and Vertical Flat Heat Pipe Configurations
Authors: Hari Rakesh , Jolly Tom , Muraleedharan C.
Published: January 2016

The flow characteristics in the porous wick of a flat heat pipe subjected to boiling and condensation are analysed here using two-phase mixture model. Steady laminar boundary layer flow in the capillary wick structure is considered for both vertical and horizontal orientations. The governing boundary layer partial differential equations are simplified using similarity transformation. The transformed equations are then solved numerically by using shooting iterative technique. Investigation was carried out for the effects of the involved parameters such as saturation and temperature across the boundary layer. The behaviour of non-dimensional numbers due to the orientation of the heat pipe is also discussed. The study confirms that orientation plays a significant role in flow and temperature field.
Fascial Manipulation® for chronic aspecific low back pain: a single blinded randomized controlled trial
Authors: Branchini Mirco , Lopopolo Francesca , Andreoli Ernesto , Loreti Ivano , Marchand Aurélie M , Stecco Antonio
Published: January 2016

Background: The therapeutic approach to chronic aspecific low back pain (CALBP) has to consider the multifactorial aetiology of the disorder. International guidelines do not agree on unequivocal treatment indications. Recommendations for fascial therapy are few and of low level evidence but several studies indicate strong correlations between fascial thickness and low back pain. This study aims at comparing the effectiveness of Fascial Manipulation® associated with a physiotherapy program following guidelines for CALBP compared to a physiotherapy program alone.

Methods: 24 subjects were randomized into two groups, both received eight treatments over 4 weeks. Outcomes were measured at baseline, at the end of therapy and at a 1 month and a 3 months follow-up. Pain was measured with the visual analogue scale (VAS) and the brief pain inventory (BPI), function with the Rolland-Morris disability questionnaire (RMDQ), state of well-being with the short-form 36 health-survey (SF-36). The mean clinical important difference (MCID) was also measured.

Results: Patients receiving Fascial Manipulation® showed statistically and clinically significant improvements at the end of care for all outcomes, in the short (RMDQ, VAS, BPI) and medium term for VAS and BPI compared to manual therapy. The MCID show significant improvements in the means and percentage of subjects in groups in all outcomes post-treatment, in the short and medium term.

Conclusion: Fascial tissues were implicated in the aetiology of CALBP and treatment led to decreased symptomatic, improved functional and perceived well-being outcomes that were of greater amplitude compared to manual therapy alone.
How to put plant root uptake into a soil water flow model
Authors: Dong Xuejun
Published: January 2016

The need for improved crop water use efficiency calls for flexible modeling platforms to implement new ideas in plant root uptake and its regulation mechanisms. This paper documents the details of modifying a soil infiltration and redistribution model to include (a) dynamic root growth, (b) non-uniform root distribution and water uptake, (c) the effect of water stress on plant water uptake, and (d) soil evaporation. The paper also demonstrates strategies of using the modified model to simulate soil water dynamics and plant transpiration considering different sensitivity of plants to soil dryness and different mechanisms of root water uptake. In particular, the flexibility of simulating various degrees of compensated uptake (whereby plants tend to maintain potential transpiration under mild water stress) is emphasized. The paper also describes how to estimate unknown root distribution and rooting depth parameters by the use of a simulation-based searching method. The full documentation of the computer code will allow further applications and new development.
Paper-Based Quantification of Male Fertility Potential
Authors: Nosrati Reza , Gong Max M , San Gabriel Maria C , Pedraza Claudio E , Zini Armand , Sinton David
Published: January 2016

BACKGROUND

More than 70 million couples worldwide are affected by infertility, with male-factor infertility accounting for about half of the cases. Semen analysis is critical for determining male fertility potential, but conventional testing is costly and complex. Here, we demonstrate a paper-based microfluidic approach to quantify male fertility potential, simultaneously measuring 3 critical semen parameters in 10 min: live and motile sperm concentrations and sperm motility.

METHODS

The device measures the colorimetric change of yellow tetrazolium dye to purple formazan by the diaphorase flavoprotein enzyme present in metabolically active human sperm to quantify live and motile sperm concentration. Sperm motility was determined as the ratio of motile to live sperm. We assessed the performance of the device by use of clinical semen samples, in parallel with standard clinical approaches.

RESULTS

Detection limits of 8.46 and 15.18 million/mL were achieved for live and motile sperm concentrations, respectively. The live and motile sperm concentrations and motility values from our device correlated with those of the standard clinical approaches (R2 ≥ 0.84). In all cases, our device provided 100% agreement in terms of clinical outcome. The device was also robust and could tolerate conditions of high absolute humidity (22.8 g/m3) up to 16 weeks when packaged with desiccant.

CONCLUSIONS

Our device outperforms existing commercial paper-based assays by quantitatively measuring live and motile sperm concentrations and motility, in only 10 min. This approach is applicable to current clinical practices as well as self-diagnostic applications.
Co-Authoring Lives
Authors: Thornton Rebecca Mercado
Published: January 2016

This essay illuminates Mikhail M. Bakhtin's “Author and Hero in Aesthetic Activity” by co-narrating the shared experiences of two friends and showing how Bakhtin's author/hero relationship parallels my relationship with my amiga, Brandy. In doing so, I demonstrate the philosophical similarities between writing biographyand co-authoring an enduring friendship. Both are aesthetic achievements “consummated” and made “whole” only through the contributions of the other. Presenting narratives written in an idiosyncratic, subjective voice and extended by that of my friend, I hope to provide a more nuanced understanding of Bakhtin's author/hero relationship, present friendship as a dialogue of narratives and a narrative of dialogues, and ultimately show the beauties of co-narration as a departure from traditional academic research about friendship and life in general.
Crossing Thresholds with a Child with a Disability
Authors: De Schauwer Elisabeth , Davies Bronwyn
Published: January 2016

This essay takes up the concept of “thresholds” as it was developed in the Spring 2014 issue of Departures in Critical Qualitative Research. It opens up a fertile seam of thought about encounters with people labeled as “disabled” and with one's own child in particular. The article troubles the processes of normalization, and opens up the space of difference by excavating its unspeakability. The stories of two mothers and their disabled children are told using the concept of thresholds to examine their encounters with (the difference of) their children. The essay concludes with implications for professional practice.
Glossary (Not) for Non-ADHD Partners
Authors: Ivey Christina Lynne
Published: January 2016

This piece explores my experience navigating the new communicative obstacles emerging after the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) diagnosis of my partner. Struggling to find research that aided my understanding, I created a glossary of terms meant to clarify what words were currently working/not working in my relationship. Each term entry is coupled with autoethnographic accounts with/about my partner. This essay means to extend the work of Eve Tuck and Christine Ree, demonstrating how creating glossaries can be used as a critical qualitative method to explore negotiations of discourses that occur within marginalized identities.
Hypotension Associated With Intravitreal Bevacizumab Therapy for Retinopathy of Prematurity
Authors: Wu Lu-Hsuan , Yang Yea-Huei Kao , Lin Chyi-Her , Lin Yuh-Jyh , Cheng Ching-Lan
Published: January 2016

Intravitreal bevacizumab therapy in preterm infants for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) can be associated with hypotension. We report twin preterm infants who developed hypotension within 1 day after intravitreal bevacizumab therapy for ROP. Before receiving the medication, their clinical statuses were stable and similar. The dose, procedure, and premedication were the same; however, twin B presented with hypotension for 3 days. Although bevacizumab-related hypotension has been described in product information (incidence rate 7%–15%), this is the first case report of intravitreal bevacizumab for ROP inducing hypotension. Physicians should be aware of intravitreal bevacizumab therapy-related hypotension when treating ROP. We suggest conducting a postmarketing active surveillance on the systemic adverse effects of this regimen in preterm infants.
Automated Error Detection for Developing Grammar Proficiency of ESL Learners
Authors: Feng Hui-Hsien , Saricaoglu Aysel , Chukharev-Hudilainen Evgeny
Published: January 2016

Thanks to natural language processing technologies, computer programs are actively being used not only for holistic scoring, but also for formative evaluation of writing. CyWrite is one such program that is under development. The program is built upon Second Language Acquisition theories and aims to assist ESL learners in higher education by providing them with effective formative feedback to facilitate autonomous learning and improvement of their writing skills. In this study, we focus on CyWrite’s capacity to detect grammatical errors in student writing. We specifically report on (1) computational and pedagogical approaches to the development of the tool in terms of students’ grammatical accuracy, and (2) the performance of our grammatical analyzer. We evaluated the performance of CyWrite on a corpus of essays written by ESL undergraduate students with regards to four types of grammatical errors: quantifiers, subject-verb agreement, articles, and run-on sentences. We compared CyWrite’s performance at detecting these errors to the performance of a well-known commercially available AWE tool, Criterion. Our findings demonstrated better performance metrics of our tool as compared to Criterion, and a deeper analysis of false positives and false negatives shed light on how CyWrite’s performance can be improved.
New Discrete Tanaka Sugeno Kang Fuzzy Systems Characterization and Stability Domain
Authors: BENREJEB Mohamed , SOUDANI Dhaou , SAKLY Anis , BORNE Pierre
Published: January 2016

In this paper, an analytical approach to characterize discrete Tanaka Sugeno Kang (TSK) fuzzy systems is presented. This characterization concerns the choice of the adequate conjunctive operator between input variables of discrete TSK fuzzy models, t-norm, and its impact on stability domain estimation. This new approach is based on stability conditions issued from vector norms corresponding to a vector-Lyapunov function. In particular, second order discrete TSK models are considered and this work concludes that Zadeh’s t-norm, logic product min, gives the largest estimation of stability domain.
On Guaranteed Global Exponential Stability Of Polynomial Singularly Perturbed Control Systems
Authors: Bouzaouache Hajer , Braiek Naceur Benhadj
Published: January 2016

The problem of global exponential stability for a class of nonlinear singularly perturbed systems is examined in this paper. The stability analysis is based on the use of basic results of integral manifold of nonlinear singularly perturbed systems, the composite Lyapunov method and the notations and properties of Tensoriel algebra. Some of the derived results are presented as linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) feasibility tests. Moreover, we pointed out that if the global exponential stability of the reduced order subsystem is established this is equivalent to guarantee the global exponential stability of the original high order closed loop system. An upper bound e1 of the small parameter e , can also be determined up to which established stability conditions via LMI’s are maintained verified. A numerical example is given to illustrate the proposed approach.
Competing Actions of Type 1 Angiotensin II Receptors Expressed on T Lymphocytes and Kidney Epithelium during Cisplatin-Induced AKI
Authors: Zhang Jiandong , Rudemiller Nathan P. , Patel Mehul B. , Wei QingQing , Karlovich Norah S. , Jeffs Alexander D. , Wu Min , Sparks Matthew A. , Privratsky Jamie R. , Herrera Marcela , Gurley Susan B. , Nedospasov Sergei A. , Crowley Steven D.
Published: January 2016

Inappropriate activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) contributes to many CKDs. However, the role of the RAS in modulating AKI requires elucidation, particularly because stimulating type 1 angiotensin II (AT1) receptors in the kidney or circulating inflammatory cells can have opposing effects on the generation of inflammatory mediators that underpin the pathogenesis of AKI. For example, TNF-α is a fundamental driver of cisplatin nephrotoxicity, and generation of TNF-α is suppressed or enhanced by AT1 receptor signaling in T lymphocytes or the distal nephron, respectively. In this study, cell tracking experiments with CD4-Cre mT/mG reporter mice revealed robust infiltration of T lymphocytes into the kidney after cisplatin injection. Notably, knockout of AT1 receptors on T lymphocytes exacerbated the severity of cisplatin-induced AKI and enhanced the cisplatin-induced increase in TNF-α levels locally within the kidney and in the systemic circulation. In contrast, knockout of AT1 receptors on kidney epithelial cells ameliorated the severity of AKI and suppressed local and systemic TNF-α production induced by cisplatin. Finally, disrupting TNF-α production specifically within the renal tubular epithelium attenuated the AKI and the increase in circulating TNF-α levels induced by cisplatin. These results illustrate discrepant tissue–specific effects of RAS stimulation on cisplatin nephrotoxicity and raise the concern that inflammatory mediators produced by renal parenchymal cells may influence the function of remote organs by altering systemic cytokine levels. Our findings suggest selective inhibition of AT1 receptors within the nephron as a promising intervention for protecting patients from cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.
Can Self-Help Groups Really Be 'Self-Help'?
Authors: Greaney Brian , Kaboski Joseph P. , Van Leemput Eva
Published: January 2016

We provide an experimental and theoretical evaluation of a cost-reducing innovation in the delivery of “self-help group” microfinance services, in which privatized agents earn payments through membership fees for providing services. Under the status quo, agents are paid by an outside donor and offer members free services. In our multi-country randomized control trial we evaluate the change in this incentive scheme on agent behavior and performance, and on overall village-level outcomes. We find that privatized agents start groups, attract members, mobilize savings, and intermediate loans at similar levels after a year but at much lower costs to the NGO. At the village level, we find higher levels of borrowing, business-related savings, and investment in business. Examining mechanisms, we find that self-help groups serve more business-oriented clientele when facilitated by agents who face strong financial incentives.
Juan de Arfe y su idea de custodia procesional: una maqueta de madera inédita en la catedral de León
Authors: Andrés González Patricia
Published: January 2016

El uso de maquetas de madera era habitual en la contratación de las obras de platería de mayor importancia. Permitía que el contratante se hiciese una idea cercana del resultado final, y sobre todo apreciar la arquitectura con mayor pureza, al no contar con los relieves en los que se desarrolla el programa iconográfico. Su realización suele estar especificada en las escrituras de contrato, pero desgraciadamente no han llegado hasta nuestros días muchas de ellas, por lo que esta pieza inédita de la catedral de León supone un interesante hallazgo. Además, su estructura y medidas nos permiten pensar que podría corresponder al destacado artista y teórico Juan de Arfe.
EL CRUCIFICADO EN LA ALPUJARRA GRANADINA. NUEVAS PIEZAS DE PABLO DE ROJAS Y ALONSO DE MENA.
Authors: PEINADO GUZMÁN JOSÉ ANTONIO
Published: January 2016

Tras la conclusión de la rebelión de La Alpujarra en 1571 se produjo una importante labor de arreglo y reconstrucción de las iglesias y ermitas del lugar. Como consecuencia lógica, hubo que procurar el exorno de imágenes en dichos templos, que sirvieran, asimismo, para acometer la labor evangelizadora de aquella zona. Así, pues, importantes debieron ser los encargos que recibieron los escultores granadinos del momento, concretamente Pablo de Rojas, Alonso de Mena y sus respectivos círculos. El presente artículo intenta analizar y sacar a la luz nuevas piezas de este período, que creemos salidas de sus gubias.
Las obras pías del VI conde de Fernán Núñez: Un ejemplo de distinción social a través de la caritas ilustrada.
Authors: Vigara Zafra José Antonio
Published: January 2016

Este trabajo pretende un análisis de las prácticas piadosas desarrolladas por el VI conde de Fernán Núñez en su villa. Para ello se estudian las etapas constructivas y las funciones simbólicas originadas en torno a estas obras. Con ello se esperan extraer consecuencias relativas al análisis de las nuevas estrategias de distinción social generadas por las élites nobiliarias durante la Ilustración.

 
Balbino Marrón y la arquitectura hospitalaria: su prueba de pensado en la Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando
Authors: Fernández González Alberto
Published: January 2016

Balbino Marrón y Ranero fue el arquitecto más destacado del siglo XIX en la ciudad de Sevilla. El trabajo de investigación aporta información inédita localizada en el Archivo de la Academia de San Fernando que aclara las incertidumbres que todavía existían sobre su formación inicial, maestros y primeras influencias. También se analiza pormenorizadamente el proyecto de hospital general para la ciudad hispalense que el joven Marrón presentó en la Academia madrileña como prueba de examen, un relevante documento gráfico que nunca se había estudiado en profundidad, a pesar de que manifiesta una concepción moderna y funcional de la arquitectura hospitalaria.
Arte útil para la sociedad. Consideraciones entorno a seis artistas del siglo XXI en España.
Authors: QUIROSA GARCIA, LUQUE RODRIGO VICTORIA, LAURA
Published: January 2016

¿Debe ser el arte útil? ¿Siente la sociedad que el arte le pertenece? En la actualidad cada vez son más los artistas que definen su obra como un lenguaje recíproco entre su proceso creativo y los espectadores. Una relación que no siempre ha sido fácil ya que la sociedad ha adoptado una actitud meramente contemplativa y estas nuevas exigencias le obligan a participar activamente de la actividad artística.

En este artículo queremos reflexionar sobre estas cuestiones analizando la trayectoria de seis artistas y colectivos actuales que reivindican a través de su obra la regeneración del espacio urbano y la supremacía del arte como motor de cambio ante conflictos sociales. El arte comprometido vuelve a tener un mayor peso en períodos de crisis creando un caldo de cultivo óptimo para la renovación y evolución de la disciplina artística y sus repercusiones más allá de su difusión tradicional.
El culto religioso en el puerto industrial de San Juan de Nieva, Asturias. Ignacio Álvarez Castelao y el templo parroquial de Nuestra Señora del Carmen. Un patrimonio olvidado.
Authors: Fernández García Noelia
Published: January 2016

Tras la Guerra Civil y con la incipiente revalorización del tradicionalismo católico a través del nacional-catolicismo, la reconstrucción de los templos que habían sido destruidos durante la contienda y la nueva construcción de iglesias en zonas especialmente conflictivas, en la mayor parte de los casos debido a la importancia del movimiento obrero, se convirtieron en necesidades imperativas para el gobierno del nuevo régimen. De esta manera, la creación de organismos gubernamentales que cumpliesen tal función, así como la actividad de las Juntas Parroquiales se postularon como las herramientas necesarias para extender la religiosidad no sólo en las ciudades sino también en zonas de trabajo industrial, como el puerto de San Juan de Nieva.
Sobre narrativa de colegios jesuitas en Pérez de Ayala y Miró
Authors: Ezpeleta Aguilar Fermín
Published: January 2016

Resumen

La novela lírica, que caracteriza la producción literaria de Ramón Pérez de Ayala y Gabriel Miró, sirve a estos autores como estructura que acoge sus iniciales novelas autobiográficas de colegios jesuitas, particularmente, A.M.D.G. y Amores de Antón Hernando (posteriormente, Niño y grande). Se trata en los dos casos de novelas de aprendizaje, que se acercan a la modalidad «de artista», en las que se impugna, mediante recursos como la parodia y la ironía, la pedagogía jesuita. Importa, más en Pérez de Ayala que en Miró, el hilvanado de cuadros estudiantiles con anécdotas académicas de tipos docentes y discentes, al modo de las novelas de costumbres universitarias del momento. Se evidencia en ambos autores cómo el nuevo modo de novelar sigue aprovechando elementos de la tradición realista y naturalista del siglo xix.

Palabras clave: Ramón Pérez de Ayala, Gabriel Miró, colegios jesuitas,  novela lírica, novela de formación, novela de artista.

 

Abstract

The lyrical novel, which characterizes the literary production of Ramón Pérez de Ayala and Gabriel Miró, these authors serves as a structure that welcomes their initial autobiographical novels of Jesuit schools, particularly A.M.D.G. and Amores de Antón Hernando (later Niño y grande). It is in both cases Bildungsromane that are close to the mode «artist», which is challenged by resources such as parody and irony Jesuit pedagogy. In these novels is important composition of student academic painting with stories as they appear in the novels of university customs of the moment. It is evident in how both authors romanticize the new mode continues to build elements of the realist tradition and naturalist of the nineteenth century.

Key words: Ramón Pérez de Ayala, Gabriel Miró, Jesuit schools, lyrical novel, Bildungsroman, Künstlerroman.
Crowdsourcing participativo institucional. Información geográfica voluntaria en la administración pública. Ejemplos
Authors: Guimet Pereña Jordi
Published: January 2016

Se defiende y argumenta que las entidades públicas, tales como administraciones locales, organismos y empresas públicas, fundaciones, etc., están realizando determinadas actividades equivalentes a la VGI, a través de las cuales reúnen y comparten nuevos datos e información geográfica entre ellos y con la comunidad. Y lo hacen, mayoritariamente, por la intervención e iniciativa de algunos de sus miembros, que desde su rol de funcionarios de dichas entidades participan en el mismo esfuerzo de cooperación y contribuyen con la creación, gestión y publicación de información que, en rigor, no pertenece a las tareas asignadas o responsabilidades de dichas entidades públicas.

El artículo presenta algunas experiencias en el marco de la IDE (Infraestructura de Datos Espaciales) catalana que demuestran claramente la importancia creciente de este tipo de voluntariado «público» dentro del paradigma VGI y sus beneficios para las administraciones públicas y los ciudadanos
Sociedad de la geoinformación y conducta espacial del ciudadano como nuevos desafíos para la Geografía
Authors: Moreno Jiménez Antonio
Published: January 2016

Las innovaciones que caracterizan a la denominada sociedad de la geoinformación (SGI) y a su tecnosfera han permitido desarrollar un poderoso ciberespacio, cuyo acceso, cada vez más general entre la ciudadanía, está cambiando intensamente la tradicional interacción hombre-espacio, al condicionar tanto la formación de decisiones individuales, como las conductas espaciales, fenómenos ambos que requieren una atención preferente de nuestra disciplina. Partiendo de una serie de conceptos geográficos importantes sobre el particular y de una breve caracterización de la SGI, en este artículo se pretende destacar y reflexionar sobre algunas consecuencias novedosas observables en las búsquedas de información en el ciberespacio como apoyo a la movilidad espacial de los individuos. El sentido y meta últimos de ello estriba en explorar oportunidades emergentes para resituar y reforzar el valor del conocimiento geográfico para el ciudadano en este contexto.