bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What’s wrong with inequality? Some Rousseauian perspectives
Authors: Douglass Robin
Published: January 2015

In this article, I review Frederick Neuhouser’s latest book, Rousseau’s Critique of Inequality, while critically assessing the legacy of Rousseau’s ideas on inequality and amour-propre for contemporary political philosophy. I challenge the widely held notion that the account of equality set out in the Social Contract should be read as a (partial) remedy to the problems generated by amour-propre, and suggest that we have to turn to Rousseau’s other writings to reconstruct his own political remedies for these problems. I then draw attention to a much neglected dimension of Rousseau’s critique of inequality, which concerns the effect inequality has on our ability to identify with other humans and feel compassion for them. Taken together, these considerations highlight some of the limitations of the dominant Kantian–Rawlsian strand of Rousseau interpretation within contemporary liberal political philosophy.
Attenuating the Escalation of Commitment to a Faltering Project in Decision-Making Groups
Authors: Wieber Frank , Thürmer J. Lukas , Gollwitzer Peter M.
Published: January 2015

When groups receive negative feedback on their progress toward a set goal, they often escalate rather than temper their commitment. To attenuate such escalation, we suggest initiating a self-distancing response (i.e., taking the perspective of a neutral observer) by forming implementation intentions when, where, and how to act (i.e., making if-then plans). Implementation intentions should help groups to translate a self-distancing intention into action. In line with this reasoning, only groups that had added implementation intentions to their goal to make optimal investment decisions reduced their high levels of investment (Study 1) or maintained their moderate levels of investment (Study 2) after negative feedback. Groups that had merely formed goal intentions, however, escalated even when their decision goal was supplemented with self-distancing instructions (Study 1), and they escalated as much as control groups without such a goal (Study 2). Implications for improving group decision making by implementation intentions are discussed.
Gender Orientation and the Cost of Caring for Others
Authors: Taylor John
Published: January 2015

The “cost-of-caring” thesis asserts that observed gender differences in psychological distress are largely a consequence of women’s greater emotional investment in the lives of their loved ones. Research on this topic has supported this thesis by showing that network events result in higher levels of depressive symptoms for women compared to men. However, other evidence challenges this claim. In light of these divergent findings, this paper elaborates this topic in three ways. First, susceptibility to network events is assessed in terms of two dimensions of psychological distress, depressive symptomatology and problem drinking. Second, within-gender analyses are conducted to examine the possibility that masculine and feminine personality traits condition the relationship between network events and psychological distress. Finally, this paper assesses age variation in the cost of caring. Data collected from 1,393 respondents ages 18 to 55 who participated in a Toronto-based community study are employed to address these issues. Findings reveal that the cost of caring for others extends to women and men, and that gender orientation modifies the relationship between network events and psychological distress. These results underscore the need to critically assess the social factors that differentiate risk and well-being for men and women.
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells regulate T cell and B cell responses during autoimmune disease
Authors: Crook Kristen R , Jin Mengyao , Weeks Michael F , Rampersad Rishi R , Baldi Robert M , Glekas Amy S , Shen Yajuan , Esserman Denise A , Little Paul , Schwartz Todd A , Liu Peng
Published: January 2015

MDSCs are a heterogeneous group of myeloid cells that suppress T cell activity in cancer and autoimmune disease. The effect of MDSCs on B cell function is not clear. Using the CIA model of autoimmune disease, we found an increase in M-MDSCs in the periphery of WT mice with CIA compared with nai¨ve mice. These MDSCs were absent from the periphery of CCR2−/− mice that developed exacerbated disease. M-MDSCs, isolated from immunized mice, inhibited autologous CD4+ T cell proliferation. The M-MDSC-mediated suppression of T cell proliferation was NO and IFN-γ dependent but IL-17 independent. Furthermore, we demonstrated for the first time that M-MDSCs from CIA mice also inhibited autologous B cell proliferation and antibody production. The suppression of B cells by M-MDSCs was dependent on the production of NO and PGE2 and required cell–cell contact. Administration of M-MDSCs rescued CCR2−/− mice from the exacerbated CIA phenotype and ameliorated disease in WT mice. Furthermore, adoptive transfer of M-MDSCs reduced autoantibody production by CCR2−/− and WT mice. In summary, M-MDSCs inhibit T cell and B cell function in CIA and may serve as a therapeutic approach in the treatment of autoimmune arthritis.
Prevalence and Functional Consequence of TP53 Mutations in Pediatric Adrenocortical Carcinoma: A Children's Oncology Group Study
Authors: Wasserman Jonathan D. , Novokmet Ana , Eichler-Jonsson Claudia , Ribeiro Raul C. , Rodriguez-Galindo Carlos , Zambetti Gerard P. , Malkin David
Published: January 2015

Purpose

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare pediatric malignancy. It occurs in excess among individuals with the Li-Fraumeni syndrome, which results primarily from germline mutations in the TP53 gene. Prior series exploring frequencies of germline TP53 mutation among children with ACC have been small, geographically limited, or subject to referral bias. The functional consequence of mutations has not been related to phenotype. We provide a genotype-phenotype analysis of TP53 mutations in pediatric ACC and propose a model for tissue-specific effects based on adrenocortical ontogeny.

Patients and Methods

Eighty-eight consecutive, unrelated children with ACC, unselected for family history, underwent germline TP53 sequencing. Rate and distribution of mutations were identified. Functional analysis was performed for novel TP53 variants. Correlation with the International Agency for Research on Cancer p53 database further delineated mutational distribution, association with family history, and risk for multiple primary malignancies (MPMs).

Results

Germline mutations were present in 50% of children. These mutations did not correspond to the conventional hotspot mutations. There was a wide range of mutant protein function. Patients bearing alleles encoding protein with higher functionality were less likely to have a strong family cancer history, whereas those with greater loss of function had MPMs and/or positive family history. In patients with MPMs, ACC was the most frequent initial malignancy. Finally, we demonstrated age-dependent rates of TP53 mutation positivity.

Conclusion

TP53 mutations are prevalent in children with ACC but decline with age. Mutations result in a broad spectrum of functional loss. Effect of individual mutations may predict carrier and familial disease penetrance with potentially broad implications for clinical surveillance and counseling.
Võõrkeeleõpe kui sotsiaalne, sünergiline ja teadvustatud protsess
Authors: Kruse Mari
Published: January 2015

Kahekümnes sajand oli võõrkeeleõppe jaoks mõneti sama murranguline nagu muudes eluvaldkondades. Tehnika ja ühiskonna areng on loonud olukorra, milles väide „alati on nii tehtud” maksab vähe, kui seda ei põhjendata. Kui keeli on võimalik kodust lahkumata arvuti taga õppida, miks siis selleks klassis istuda? Ja kui kommunikatiivsusel põhinev õpe on ennast tõestanud edasiviivamana kui grammatikareeglite ning sõnade nimekirjade pähe õppimine, nagu varem tavaks oli, milline on siis grammatika ja sõnavara õppimise roll tänapäevases keeletunnis? Artiklis toon välja teadusuuringuid ja keeleteadlaste seisukohti, mis mõtestavad lahti võõrkeeleõpetaja rolli e-ajastul ja juhivad tähelepanu metalingvistilise arutelu edasiviivale rollile õppeprotsessis. Võõrkeele ja emakeele omandamises on olulised erinevused, nagu on erinevad ka lapse ja täis kasvanu kognitiivsed võimed ja vajadused. Grammatikareeglite ja semantika üle arutlemine tõstab teadlikkust ja annab õppijale vahendid ise tõhusamalt õppida.Abstract. Mari Kruse: Foreign language learning as a social, synergetic and conscious process. In foreign language learning, as in other fields of life, the twentieth century proved to be groundbreaking. The development of technology and society has taken us to a point where ”It has always been so” is no longer a valid argument unless supported by other grounds. If we can learn languages in the privacy of our own homes and at our own pace, why bother going to presential lessons? And if communicative language learning has proven to be so much more efficient than memorising of rules and word lists, as was customary earlier, what place do grammar and vocabulary learning have in contemporary language lessons? The article presents evidence from scientific research and linguists’ opinions that substantiate the role of foreign language teachers and call attention to the impelling force metalinguistic reasoning has in the process. There are significant differences between learning a first language and a foreign language; likewise children and adults differ in their cognitive capacities and needs. Reflecting on rules of grammar and semantics raises awareness and provides learners with a powerful tool to improve their learning.Keywords: foreign language learning, role of teachers, metalinguistic reasoning, intralingual comparison, attention, cognitive baggage, self-reflection
Study of Gasohol as Alternative Fuel for Gasoline Substitution: Characteristics and Performances
Authors: Murachman Bardi , Pranantyo Dicky , Sandjaya Putra Eddie
Published: January 2015

Gasohol is a mixture of premium petrol (gasoline) with alcohol, in this case ethanol. The use of gasohol can reduce fuel consumption without having to modify the existing engine. Therefore, this research is conducted to study the characteristics and performance of gasohol in various mixing ratios, which includes analysis of physical properties and the use of gasohol in the machine. Results show that the addition of technical ethanol at 7.0169%v increases the value of gasohol vapor pressure on the value of 8.6682 psi (7.7 psi for regular gasoline). Gasohol with technical ethanol content above 30%v decreases vapor pressure, promotes phase separation, and causes a sharp drop in temperature from 40%v distillation. In term of corrosivity, gasohol with up to 50%v ethanol content has the same corrosion level with regular gasoline, which is corrosion level 1A. Based on gasohol characteristics test, it is known that gasohol with technical ethanol content below 20%v can be used as a fuel substitute for gasoline. Real-time performance test of gasohol in engines has shown that the addition of ethanol content in gasohol tend to increase the engine power at a certain compression ratio, but it also increases fuel consumption because the heat value of ethanol is lower than gasoline. Machine in gasohol with ethanol content below 20%v can operate smoothly without having to modify the engine. Based on the studies that have been done, gasohol in the range of 10%v ethanol content is well-functioned as a substitute for gasoline fuel and meets fuel specifications required by the General Director of Oil and Gas. The feasibility of using gasohol as an alternative fuel can be studied further.
Misdiagnosis and Missed Diagnoses in Foster and Adopted Children With Prenatal Alcohol Exposure
Authors: Chasnoff Ira J. , Wells Anne M. , King Lauren
Published: January 2015

OBJECTIVE:

The purpose of this article is to assess the rate of misdiagnosis and missed diagnoses of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) among a population of foster and adopted youth referred to a children’s mental health center.

METHODS:

Data were collected from a sample of 547 children who underwent a comprehensive multidisciplinary diagnostic evaluation. Utilizing current diagnostic criteria, children were diagnosed, as appropriate, with fetal alcohol syndrome, partial fetal alcohol syndrome, alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorder, or alcohol-related birth defects. Changes in rates of alcohol exposure-related diagnoses and cooccurring mental health disorders pre- and postassessment were analyzed by using McNemar’s test for dependent proportions.

RESULTS:

Among 156 children and adolescents who met criteria for a diagnosis within the fetal alcohol spectrum, 125 had never been diagnosed as affected by prenatal alcohol exposure, a missed diagnosis rate of 80.1%. Of the 31 who had been recognized before referral as affected by prenatal alcohol exposure, 10 children’s FASD diagnoses were changed within the spectrum, representing a misdiagnosis rate of 6.4%. The remaining 21 (13.5%) children’s diagnoses stayed the same. There also were significant changes in the rate of mental health diagnosis, and learning disorders, communication disorders, and intellectual disability, objective signs of neurocognitive damage, were not recognized in a significant number of children with FASD.

CONCLUSIONS:

Within this clinical sample, 86.5% of youth with FASD had never been previously diagnosed or had been misdiagnosed. These high rates of missed diagnoses and misdiagnosis have significant implications for intervention and therapeutic services.
Random generation of natural sand assembly using micro x-ray tomography and spherical harmonics
Authors: Zhou B. , Wang J.
Published: January 2015

Particle morphology is an essential characteristic in determining the mechanical properties of natural sands. Based on micro x-ray computed tomography data, this paper introduces a mathematical approach using spherical harmonics (SHs) to characterise and reconstruct particle morphology in three dimensions. The basic geometric properties of natural sand particles (volume and surface area) and two empirical engineering indices (sphericity and convexity) are the main focus of the investigation on validating the efficiency of SH analysis. This approach is shown to be a robust technique for reproducing particle morphology in terms of shape irregularity and surface texture when the maximum harmonic degree is greater than ten. By using principal component analysis for the obtained SH descriptors of the scanned particles, a virtual sand assembly, consisting of statistically reconstructed particles with random shapes but major morphological features, is successfully generated. This approach can be used in efficient discrete element modelling to further study the micromechanics of natural sands.
Interpretation of Steady Linear Visco-Inertial Gas Flow Data
Authors: Dranchuk P.M. , Kolada L.J.
Published: January 2015

When laboratory gas flow data are presented on a Klinkenberg plot, the points trace a path which curves downward in the region of high mean pressure. Recent work has shown that this departure from linearity is due to visco-inertial flow. Consequently, it has been suggested that if flow measurements are restricted to the viscous region the resulting points must fall on a straight line, in which case an unbiased estimate of the true linear relationship may be obtained by the method of least squares.

In the case of flow measurements taken in the visco-inertial flow region, theory suggests that the resulting data may be plotted in such a manner as to yield a straight line with a slope equal to the inertial resistance coefficient, β, and an intercept equal to the inverse of the permeability, K. In practice, however, when such a plot is made, the points invariably trace a path which curves downward in the region of low flow rates. Although it has been recognized that the departure from linearity was due to slip at the gas-solid interface, a criterion for the delineation of the linear region of the plot was unavailable. The present work offers such a criterion and demonstrates its validity by applying it to a set of laboratory data.
Permeability Reduction Due to Salinity Changes
Authors: Mungan Necmettin
Published: January 2015

X-ray diffraction, base exchange studies and core flood tests were made to explain the reduction in permeability of Berea sandstone which results from changing the salinity of flood water. It was shown that the reduction of permeability is related to the exchangeable cations on the clays and to particle morphology.

In the Berea sandstone, the clays were found to contain primarily Ca++, Mg++ and K+, but very little Na+. At this exchange state, the clay crystals are held together tightly, cannot swell to large interlayer spacings and no damage occurred when distilled water was flowed through the cores. However, if NaCl solution is flowed through a Berea core, the exchange sites on the clays become filled predominantly with Na+. The particles can now expand by hydration of the sodium. This swelling increases the distance between clay crystals and weakens the bonds holding them together. When the clays are subsequently exposed to distilled water, the double layer is removed by moving pore water, leaving adsorbed sodium cations on the faces of the clay crystals. These cations now become more strongly hydrolyzed, further weakening the bond between particles so that they now separate under the shear stresses generated by flow. If the clays are first exposed to Ca++ or Al+++, the clays are converted into these exchange cations. The stronger coulombic attraction of the divalent or trivalent cations holds the clay crystals together, preventing swelling or dispersion during subsequent fresh water flow.

Particle morphology plays an important role in the dispersion phenomena. X-ray diffraction work showed that many of the clay crystals in Berea sandstone occur as micro-aggregates. These micro-aggregates consist of clay crystals that have grown contemporaneously and which are so interpenetrated that they will not separate under moderate conditions. It was shown that an osmotic-type phenomena cannot account satisfactorily for the dispersion of the clays in Berea. Solutions with the same osmotic pressures as the NaCl solution used were found to cause no permeability damage when followed by distilled water flow.
IGBTs working in the NDR region of their I-V characteristics
Authors: Bhojani Riteshkumar , Basler Thomas , Lutz Josef , Jakob Roland
Published: January 2015

This paper demonstrates the detailed work on high voltage IGBTs using
simulations and experiments. The current-voltage characteristics were
measured up to the break through point in forward bias operating region at
two different temperatures for a 50 A/4.5 kV rated IGBT chip. The
experimentally measured data were in good agreement with the simulation
results. It was also shown that the IGBTs are able to clamp high
collector-emitter voltages although a low gate turn-off resistor in
combination with a high parasitic inductance was applied. Uniform 4-cell and
8-cell IGBT models were created into the TCAD device simulator to conduct an
investigation. An engendered filamentation behaviour during short-circuit
turn-off was briefly reviewed using isothermal as well as thermal simulations
and semiconductor approaches for development of filaments. The current
filament inside the active cells of the IGBT is considered as one of the
possible destruction mechanism for the device failure.
The effect of sintering temperature on prepared and properties of calcium hexaluminate/gehlenite composites
Authors: Bai P. , Chai Y. , Qiu Y. , Gong C. , Tian Y.
Published: January 2015

In this paper, the calcium-hexaluminate/gehlenite (CA6/C2AS) composites have
been synthesized by traditional high temperature solid state method using
magnesium slag as a source of calcium and silicon. The phases,
micromorphology and physical properties of the samples were characterized and
analysized. The results show that the CA6 and C2AS grains formation starts at
1300oC, the main reaction has completed above 1450oC. The granular particles
of C2AS are distributed in CA6 grain boundaries. With the sintering
temperature increased, the amount and the grains of CA6 grow up gradually,
while the amount of C2AS reduces. The CA6 grains don?t growth excessively for
the space hindrance function. With the sintering temperature increased the
body density, linear shrinkage and flexural strength increases, while the
apparent porosity decreases.
Centered Log-Ratio (clr) Transformation and Robust Principal Component Analysis of Long-Term NDVI Data Reveal Vegetation Activity Linked to Climate Processes
Authors: Faith Muriithi
Published: January 2015

Predicting the future climate and its impacts on the global environment is model based, presenting a level of uncertainty. Alternative robust approaches of analyzing high volume climate data to reveal underlying regional and local trends are increasingly incorporating satellite data. This study uses a centered log-ratio (clr) transformation approach and robust principal component analysis (PCA), on a long-term Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) dataset to test its applicability in analyzing large multi-temporal data, and potential to recognize important trends and patterns in regional climate. Twenty five years of NDVI data derived by Global Inventory Modeling and Mapping Studies (GIMMS) from 1982 to 2006 were extracted for 88 subwatersheds in central Kenya and statistically analyzed. Untransformed (raw) and clr transformed NDVI data were evaluated using robust PCA. The robust PCA compositional biplots of the clr transformed long-term NDVI data demonstrated the finest spatial-temporal display of observations identifying climate related events that impacted vegetation activity and observed variations in greenness. The responses were interpreted as normal conditions, El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events of El Niño and La Niña, and drought events known to influence the moisture level and precipitation patterns (high, low, normal) and therefore the level of vegetation greenness (NDVI value). More drought events (4) were observed between 1990 and 2006, a finding corroborated by several authors and linked to increasing climate variability. Results are remarkable, emphasizing the need for appropriate data transformation prior to PCA, dealing with huge complex datasets, to enhance pattern recognition and meaningful interpretation of results. Through improved analysis of past data, uncertainty is decreased in modeling future trends.
Recent Advances in the Use of Sodium Borohydride as a Solid State Hydrogen Store
Authors: Mao Jianfeng , Gregory Duncan
Published: January 2015

The development of new practical hydrogen storage materials with high volumetric and gravimetric hydrogen densities is necessary to implement fuel cell technology for both mobile and stationary applications. NaBH4, owing to its low cost and high hydrogen density (10.6 wt%), has received extensive attention as a promising hydrogen storage medium. However, its practical use is hampered by its high thermodynamic stability and slow hydrogen exchange kinetics. Recent developments have been made in promoting H2 release and tuning the thermodynamics of the thermal decomposition of solid NaBH4. These conceptual advances offer a positive outlook for using NaBH4-based materials as viable hydrogen storage carriers for mobile applications. This review summarizes contemporary progress in this field with a focus on the fundamental dehydrogenation and rehydrogenation pathways and properties and on material design strategies towards improved kinetics and thermodynamics such as catalytic doping, nano-engineering, additive destabilization and chemical modification.
Wind Power Prediction Considering Nonlinear Atmospheric Disturbances
Authors: Zhang Yagang , Yang Jingyun , Wang Kangcheng , Wang Zengping
Published: January 2015

This paper considers the effect of nonlinear atmospheric disturbances on wind power prediction. A Lorenz system is introduced as an atmospheric disturbance model. Three new improved wind forecasting models combined with a Lorenz comprehensive disturbance are put forward in this study. Firstly, we define the form of the Lorenz disturbance variable and the wind speed perturbation formula. Then, different artificial neural network models are used to verify the new idea and obtain better wind speed predictions. Finally we separately use the original and improved wind speed series to predict the related wind power. This proves that the corrected wind speed provides higher precision wind power predictions. This research presents a totally new direction in the wind prediction field and has profound theoretical research value and practical guiding significance.
A Thermal Runaway Simulation on a Lithium Titanate Battery and the Battery Module
Authors: Chen Man , Sun Qiujuan , Li Yongqi , Wu Ke , Liu Bangjin , Peng Peng , Wang Qingsong
Published: January 2015

Based on the electrochemical and thermal model, a coupled electro-thermal runaway model was developed and implemented using finite element methods. The thermal decomposition reactions when the battery temperature exceeds the material decomposition temperature were embedded into the model. The temperature variations of a lithium titanate battery during a series of charge-discharge cycles under different current rates were simulated. The results of temperature and heat generation rate demonstrate that the greater the current, the faster the battery temperature is rising. Furthermore, the thermal influence of the overheated cell on surrounding batteries in the module was simulated, and the variation of temperature and heat generation during thermal runaway was obtained. It was found that the overheated cell can induce thermal runaway in other adjacent cells within 3 mm distance in the battery module if the accumulated heat is not dissipated rapidly.
Poly(vinyl alcohol)/gelatin Hydrogels Cultured with HepG2 Cells as a 3D Model of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Morphological Study
Authors: Moscato Stefania , Ronca Francesca , Campani Daniela , Danti Serena
Published: January 2015

It has been demonstrated that three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models represent fundamental tools for the comprehension of cellular phenomena both for normal and cancerous tissues. Indeed, the microenvironment affects the cellular behavior as well as the response to drugs. In this study, we performed a morphological analysis on a hepatocarcinoma cell line, HepG2, grown for 24 days inside a bioartificial hydrogel composed of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and gelatin (G) to model a hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in 3D. Morphological features of PVA/G hydrogels were investigated, resulting to mimic the trabecular structure of liver parenchyma. A histologic analysis comparing the 3D models with HepG2 cell monolayers and tumor specimens was performed. In the 3D setting, HepG2 cells were viable and formed large cellular aggregates showing different morphotypes with zonal distribution. Furthermore, β-actin and α5β1 integrin revealed a morphotype-related expression; in particular, the frontline cells were characterized by a strong immunopositivity on a side border of their membrane, thus suggesting the formation of lamellipodia-like structures apt for migration. Based on these results, we propose PVA/G hydrogels as valuable substrates to develop a long term 3D HCC model that can be used to investigate important aspects of tumor biology related to migration phenomena.
Combination of Trabectedin and Gemcitabine for Advanced Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Results of a Phase I Dose Escalating Trial of the German Interdisciplinary Sarcoma Group (GISG)
Authors: Kasper Bernd , Reichardt Peter , Pink Daniel , Sommer Michaela , Mathew Monika , Rauch Geraldine , Hohenberger Peter
Published: January 2015

Background: Evaluation of the potential efficacy and safety of combination therapies for advanced soft tissue sarcomas (STS) has increased substantially after approval of trabectedin and pazopanib. Trabectedin's introduction in Europe in 2007 depended mainly on its activity in so-called L-sarcomas (liposarcoma and leiomyosarcoma); combination of trabectedin with other chemotherapies used in STS seems of particular interest. Methods: We initiated within the German Interdisciplinary Sarcoma Group (GISG) a phase I dose escalating trial evaluating the combination of trabectedin and gemcitabine in patients with advanced and/or metastatic L-sarcomas (GISG-02; ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01426633). Patients were treated with increasing doses of trabectedin and gemcitabine. The primary endpoint was to determine the maximum tolerated dose. Results: Five patients were included in the study. Two patients were treated on dose level 1 comprising trabectedin 0.9 mg/m2 on day 1 and gemcitabine 700 mg/m2 on days 1 + 8, every 3 weeks. Due to dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) in both patients (elevated transaminases and thrombocytopenia), an additional three patients were treated on dose level −1 with trabectedin 0.7 mg/m2 plus gemcitabine 700 mg/m2. Of these three patients, two demonstrated another DLT; therefore, the trial was stopped and none of the dose levels could be recommended for phase II testing. Conclusion: The GISG-02 phase I study was stopped with the conclusion that the combination of gemcitabine and trabectedin is generally not recommended for the treatment of patients with advanced and/or metastatic leiomyosarcoma or liposarcoma. Also, this phase I study strongly supports the necessity for careful evaluation of combination therapies.
Kinase Inhibitor Profile for Human Nek1, Nek6, and Nek7 and Analysis of the Structural Basis for Inhibitor Specificity
Authors: Moraes Eduardo , Meirelles Gabriela , Honorato Rodrigo , De Souza Tatiana , De Souza Edmarcia , Murakami Mario , De Oliveira Paulo , Kobarg Jörg
Published: January 2015

Human Neks are a conserved protein kinase family related to cell cycle progression and cell division and are considered potential drug targets for the treatment of cancer and other pathologies. We screened the activation loop mutant kinases hNek1 and hNek2, wild-type hNek7, and five hNek6 variants in different activation/phosphorylation statesand compared them against 85 compounds using thermal shift denaturation. We identified three compounds with significant Tm shifts: JNK Inhibitor II for hNek1(Δ262-1258)-(T162A), Isogranulatimide for hNek6(S206A), andGSK-3 Inhibitor XIII for hNek7wt. Each one of these compounds was also validated by reducing the kinases activity by at least 25%. The binding sites for these compounds were identified by in silico docking at the ATP-binding site of the respective hNeks. Potential inhibitors were first screened by thermal shift assays, had their efficiency tested by a kinase assay, and were finally analyzed by molecular docking. Our findings corroborate the idea of ATP-competitive inhibition for hNek1 and hNek6 and suggest a novel non-competitive inhibition for hNek7 in regard to GSK-3 Inhibitor XIII. Our results demonstrate that our approach is useful for finding promising general and specific hNekscandidate inhibitors, which may also function as scaffolds to design more potent and selective inhibitors.
The Cytolytic Activity of Vaginolysin Strictly Depends on Cholesterol and Is Potentiated by Human CD59
Authors: Zilnyte Milda , Venclovas Česlovas , Zvirbliene Aurelija , Pleckaityte Milda
Published: January 2015

Gardnerella vaginalis produces cytolysin vaginolysin (VLY), which has been suggested to be a contributor to bacterial vaginosis pathogenesis. VLY along with intermedilysin (ILY) from Streptococcus intermedius have been attributed to a group of cholesterol-dependent cytolysins (CDCs) whose pore-forming activity depends on human CD59 (hCD59). Here, we show that different types of cells lacking hCD59 are susceptible to VLY-mediated lysis, albeit to different extents. We analyze the effects of both hCD59 and cholesterol on VLY cytolytic activity. We show that VLY binds to cholesterol-rich membranes of non-human cells, while VLY with an impaired cholesterol recognition site retains binding to the hCD59-containing cells. We further demonstrate that cholesterol binding by VLY is sufficient to trigger the formation of oligomeric complexes on cholesterol rich-liposomes lacking hCD59. Thus, VLY may induce cell lysis following two alternative pathways. One requires only cholesterol and does not depend on hCD59. The second pathway involves hCD59 contribution similarly to ILY. Apparently, under physiological conditions VLY acts in the most effective way by accepting the assistance of hCD59.
Evaluation of the Benefits of Binaural Hearing on the Telephone for Children with Hearing Loss
Authors: Wolfe Jace , Schafer Erin , Mills Emily , John Andrew , Hudson Mary , Anderson Solange
Published: January 2015

Background:There is a paucity of published studies examining how children with hearing loss understand speech over the telephone. Previous studies on adults with hearing aids have suggested that adults with bilateral hearing aids experience significant difficulty recognizing
speech on the telephone when listening with one ear, but the provision of telephone input to both ears substantially improved speech understanding.Purpose:The objectives of this study were to measure speech recognition in quiet and in noise for a group of older children with hearing
loss over the telephone and to evaluate the effects of binaural hearing (e.g., DuoPhone) on speech recognition over the telephone.Research Design:A cross-sectional, repeated-measures design was used in this study.Study Sample:A total of 14 children, ages 6‐14 yr, participated
in the study. Participants were obtained using convenience sampling from a nonprofit clinic population.Intervention:Speech recognition in quiet and in noise with binaural versus monaural telephone input was compared in pediatric participants.Data Collection and Analysis:Monosyllabic
word recognition was assessed in quiet and classroom noise set at 50 dBA in conditions with monaural and binaural (DuoPhone) telephone input.Results:The children’s speech recognition in quiet and in noise was significantly better with binaural telephone input relative to monaural
telephone input.Conclusions:To obtain optimal performance on the telephone, the following considerations may apply: (1) use of amplification with binaural streaming capabilities (e.g., DuoPhone), (2) counseling of family and children on how to best use the telephone, (3) provision of
telecoil with microphone attenuation for improved signal-to-noise ratio, and (4) use of probe tube measures to verify the appropriateness of the telephone programs.
A Pragmatic Study on the Service Gap Analysis of an Indian Public Sector Bank
Authors: Nalini Rengasamy , Amudha Ramachandran , Sujatha Venkatarayareddiar , Radha Rengaswamy
Published: January 2015

Customers are the major stakeholders and their satisfaction forms the basis of the sustainable competitive advantage of the firm. Attracting, satisfying and retaining customers lead to extended customer base and increased profit margins. Thus, the customer satisfaction is the ultimate objective of the firm which is possible by rendering quality service. The State Bank of India (SBI) ranks as 67th in the list of largest banks in the world based on market capitalization as of March 31th 2014. The quality of service extended by the SBI has resulted in customer satisfaction and expanded customer base for the bank. Random sampling method is adopted for the collection of data from the respondents. In Tiruchirappalli regional office of State Bank of India, area operations are selected within 10 Kilometer radius from the Main branch and 60 questionnaires per branch have been distributed in 10 branches. Out of 600 questionnaires, 109 are found incomplete and 491 are fully complete with 81.83% of response rate. The data collected were analysed with the help of MS Excel to identify the gaps. The Cronbach alpha, a measure of internal consistency obtained is 0.925 which is considered to be excellent. This study aims to identify the gaps in the dimensions of service quality by administering SERVQUAL model among the customers in State Bank of India. An overall weighted SERVQUAL score of –1.42866 was arrived, representing a significant inconsistency in meeting customer expectations across all service dimensions. Highest gap scores for reliability and empathy depicts that there is a need for courtesy and politeness among SBI employees which in turn will help to establish a long term relationship with the customers. The relatively low gap scores were found for responsiveness, tangibles and assurance dimensions. The State Bank of India has to take steps to close the gaps and it can be closed by establishing and implementing a service quality information system.
Performance Evaluation of Investment (Mutual) Funds
Authors: Vyšniauskas Povilas , Rutkauskas Aleksandras Vytautas
Published: January 2015

The efficiency of an investment fund is one of the main components in evaluating the performance of the fund. This study seeks for introducing and comparing risk and performance evaluation ratios. The paper is aimed at testing the worked out ratios and at distinguishing between the best ones for the purpose of evaluating the performance of Lithuanian mutual funds. Scientific studies show that a standard deviation, alpha, beta, Sharpe and Treynor ratios are mostly employed for identifying the performance of mutual funds that are also compared with their benchmark index to establish if these funds are outperformed and if is it worth paying management fees to investment banks for managing mutual funds. Historical data were selected for the period from 2012-01-02 to 2013-10-15 analysing the prices of monthly funds. The paper points out the areas of a practical application of the proposed model for investment fund valuation, which may not only provide valuable outcomes for practitioners but also may inspire further research on this article.
Bank Liquidity and Financial Performance: Evidence from Moroccan Banking Industry
Authors: Ferrouhi El Mehdi
Published: January 2015

This paper aims to analyze the relationship between liquidity risk and financial performance of Moroccan banks and to define the determinants of bank’s performance in Morocco during the period 2001–2012. We first evaluate Moroccan banks’ liquidity positions through different liquidity and performance ratios then we apply a panel date regression to identify determinants of Moroccan banks performance. We use 4 bank’s performance ratios, 6 liquidity ratios and we analyze 5 specific determinants and 5 macroeconomic determinants of bank performance. Results show that Moroccan bank’s performance is mainly determined by 7 determinants: liquidity ratio, size of banks, logarithm of the total assets squared, external funding to total liabilities, share of own bank’s capital of the bank’s total assets, foreign direct investments, unemployment rate and the realization of the financial crisis variable. Banks’ performance depends positively on size of banks, on foreign direct investments and on the realization of the financial crisis and negatively on external funding to total liabilities, on share of own bank’s capital of the bank’s total assets and on unemployment rate while the dependence between bank performance and liquidity ratios and bank performance and logarithm of the total assets squared depend on the model used.
On the morphology, biometry and biogeography of Lamtopyxis callistoma (Amoebozoa: Arcellinida)
Authors: Todorov Milcho
Published: January 2015

The ultra-structure of the shell and the morphometric variability of soil inhabiting testate amoeba Lamtopyxis callistoma from Madagascar were studied by using light- and scanning electron microscopy. The biometrical characteristic of the species was made on the basis of 75 specimens measured. In addition to the diameter of the shell, six other shell characters were described biometrically for the first time. The analysis of the variation coefficients shows that the studied population of L. callistoma is comparatively homogeneous and almost all measured characters are weakly to moderate variable (CV less than 10%). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies on the shell ultra-morphology show that it has a smooth apertural surface with a thick layer of porous and fibrous organic cement and a rough dorsal surface composed of bigger and angular pieces of quartz. The shell wall has a thickness of about 5-6 µm and is composed of three layers. Unlike the previously accepted opinion that species is characterized by the presence of four teeth, this study shows that population of L. callistoma from Madagascar is comprised of both, specimens with four teeth and specimens with three teeth, in ratio of about 60% to 40%. Taking into account the restricted geographical distribution, large sizes and characteristic apertural morphology of L. callistoma it is assumed that this species, like some bryophilic ‘Nebelas’ with circumaustral distribution (e.g. Apodera vas, Alocodera cockayni, Certesella certesi, Certesella martiali, etc.), can be used as an example that in free-living microbial eukaryotes ‘not everything is everywhere’.
Le champ de la voix dans le « slam poésie »
Authors: Mazars Christine
Published: January 2015

Le slam est un nouvel art poétique, faisant intervenir la scène, emprunté par les jeunes. Cette poésie-spectacle répond au besoin d’étayage narcissique et de conquête de nouveaux espaces à l’adolescence où le champ du langage est investi en rupture avec la langue maternelle et celle de la norme. Elle permet aux jeunes de se confronter à l’altérité en sublimant leurs pulsions agressives par le biais de l’objet esthétique commun auquel ils se sont identifiés et par lequel ils exercent leur créativité.
Co-sensorialité et partage créatif de l'hallucinatoire
Authors: Boucherat-Hue Valérie
Published: January 2015

L’analyse aménagée par la médiation corporelle d’un jeune homme dévoile un bébé physiquement « abîmé » qui n’a pas été touché mais excité précocement. Les symptômes « somatopsychotiques » renvoient aux traces enkystées de cette mémoire corporelle du trauma. Clivées, incorporées et hallucinées, ces traces ne sont symbolisables qu’en étant co-incarnées dans la relation d’étayage avec l’objet secourable de la cure, jusqu’au partage d’un sensoriel primitif auto-organisateur entre analyste et analysé.
Zone euro : convalescence
Authors: Département analyse et prévision  , Antonin Céline , Blot Christophe , Le Bayon Sabine , Schweisguth Danielle
Published: January 2015

La zone euro a renoué avec la croissance. Pour le troisième trimestre consécutif, le PIB a légèrement progressé. Pour autant, la situation macroéconomique de la zone euro reste critique. La croissance est pour l’instant bien trop fragile pour enclencher une dynamique de reprise significative. Dans certains pays, le PIB a continué de reculer au quatrième trimestre 2013. Dans d’autres, c’est le chômage qui se maintient à des niveaux records et qui progresse même encore, en raison d’une progression trop faible de l’activité. Les politiques budgétaires restrictives ont de nouveau pesé sur la demande en 2013. Leur dimension procyclique devrait néanmoins s’atténuer en 2014 et 2015. Du côté de la politique monétaire, la BCE maintient le taux d’intérêt directeur à un niveau de 0,25 point mais tarde à engager des actions plus significatives pour soutenir la croissance et accélérer le processus, en cours, de convergence des taux longs. Les enquêtes sur le crédit indiquent une normalisation des conditions d’offre de crédits mais aussi le faible dynamisme de la demande. Dans ces conditions, nous anticipons une accélération de la croissance en 2014, en grande partie liée à une impulsion budgétaire négative (0,2 point au lieu de 0,7 en 2013). Portée par une moindre accélération du commerce extérieur et le début d’une reprise de l’investissement, la croissance atteindrait 1,3 % en 2014 puis accélérerait à 1,6 % en 2015. Avec un PIB toujours inférieur de 2,7 % à son niveau d’avant crise, ce rebond de la croissance est encore trop faible pour avoir un impact significatif sur le chômage. Il baisserait en 2014 et 2015 sur l’ensemble de la zone euro mais seulement de 0,2 puis 0,3 point. Or avec un taux de chômage qui serait encore de 11,4 % en fin d’année 2015, le risque déflationniste va continuer à s’accentuer. L’évolution récente des prix reflète cette situation avec une inflation qui ralentit depuis la fin de l’année 2011 et un risque accru de voir les anticipations s’ancrer sur un scénario de baisse des prix.
Hidalgos del Ribeiro de Avia: la casa de Candendo en San Miguel de Lebosende (Leiro), siglos XVI-XVII
Authors: Rodríguez Palmeiro Iago
Published: January 2015

El propósito de este artículo es dar a conocer los primeros resultados de nuestras investigaciones al respecto de la familia González Candendo, oriunda de San Miguel de Lebosende, ayuntamiento de Leiro. Su historia se remonta hasta finales del siglo XVI y concluye en los inicios del XVIII, con su unión a una rama secundaria de los Garza Quiroga de Tor. A tal efecto, basaremos nuestro análisis en dos puntos principales: la genealogía y el patrimonio, pilares fundamentales para comprender el origen y la evolución socio-económica de sus miembros. Con ello pretendemos brindar una pequeña contribución al conocimiento de este grupo social en el área rural orensana y, por extensión, en la Galicia interior.

[gl] O propósito deste artigo é dar a coñecer os primeiros resultados das nosas investigacións respecto da familia González Candendo, oriúnda de San Miguel de Lebosende, concello de Leiro. A súa historia remóntase até finais do século XVI e conclúe nos inicios do XVIII, coa súa unión a unha rama secundaria dos Garza Quiroga de Tor. Con tal obxecto, basearemos a nosa análise en dous puntos principais: a xenealoxía e o patrimonio, alicerces fundamentais para comprender a orixe e a evolución socioeconómica dos seus membros. Con iso pretendemos brindar unha pequena contribución ao coñecemento deste grupo social na área ourensá e, por extensión, na Galicia rural interior.
Francisco de Aguiar y Seijas, pastor del rebaño
Authors: Silva Herrera Rocío
Published: January 2015

¿Cuál fue el perfil pastoral de Francisco de Aguiar y Seijas, arzobispo de México? A través de los datos que aporta el Libro de visita de su cuarta salida a las regiones de Chalco, Amilpas, Xochimilco y Coyoacán del 4 de diciembre de 1686 al 9 de abril de 1687, y utilizando la metodología de la biografía temática, se ha dado respuesta a la pregunta inicial. Luego del Concilio de Trento, el obispo tenía el grave deber de suscitar la reforma de las costumbres en su diócesis; la visita pastoral fue un medio privilegiado para lograrlo. El arzobispo Aguiar, formado bajo la disciplina tridentina en la arquidiócesis compostelana, hizo de su visita pastoral una verdadera misión popular entre la gente. Acompañado de una pequeña curia itinerante, gobernó e impartió justicia con características de delegación de poder. Hombre disciplinado, austero y de carácter conciliador se dirigió más como pastor de almas que como funcionario real.

[gl] Cal foi o perfil pastoral de Francisco de Aguiar e Seijas, arcebispo de México? A través dos datos que achega o libro de visita da súa cuarta saída ás rexións de Chalco, Amilpas, Xochimilco e Coyoacándo 4 de decembro de 1686 ao 9 de abril de 1687, e utilizando a metodoloxía da biografía temática, se deu resposta á pregunta inicial. Logo do Concilio de Trento, o bispo tiña o grave deber de suscitar a reforma dos costumes na súa diocese; a visita pastoral foi un medio privilexiado para logralo. O arcebispo Aguiar, formado baixo a disciplina tridentina na arquidiócesis compostelá, fixo da súa visita pastoral unha verdadeira misión popular entre a xente. Acompañado dunha pequena curia itinerante, gobernou e impartiu xustiza con características de delegación de poder. Home disciplinado, austero e de carácter conciliador dirixiuse máis como pastor de almas que como funcionario real.