bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enforcement of corporate rights-the rule in Foss v Harbottle: Dead or alive
Authors: Nwafor Anthony O.
Published: December 2016

The principle on the enforcement of a corporation’s right of action which is encapsulated as the rule in Foss v Harbottle has continued to attract discombobulating academic and judicial comments in defining the scope and exceptions to that rule. The recent statutory interventions which are witnessed in the UK and South Africa by redefining the right of the minority shareholders and other persons to intervene in the corporation’s right of action are seen by some writers as having extinguished the flame ignited by the decision in Foss v Harbottle. A detailed examination of the real purport of Wigram VC’s pronouncement in that case is undertaken, streamlining the rule and the subsequent decisions of courts carving out rooms for departure from the rule. The paper argues that the statutory interventions in jurisdictions under discussion only borders on derivative action which is an exception to the rule. The effect of those statutory provisions on the rule itself is not too significant as would justify the suggestion that the rule is now extinct. Thus, the paper concludes that the rule in Foss v Harbottle remains the principal approach to the enforcement of a corporation’s right of action.
Corporate governance and innovation: Evidence from Bahrain bourse
Authors: Hasan Al-Mannaei Hasan Mohamed , Mousa Hamdan Allam Mohammed
Published: December 2016

The study aims to assess corporate governance and innovation in selected listed companies at Bahrain Bourse. The study sample included 39 companies in the year 2013. The study built one Linear Regression Model to study the relationship between corporate governance and innovation. After testing the first hypothesis, there is an accepted level of corporate governance in selected listed companies at Bahrain Bourse. And after testing the second hypothesis, there is no relationship between corporate governance and innovation in selected listed companies at Bahrain Bourse, whether the corporate governance is strong in selected listed companies at Bahrain Bourse or not, it has no relationship to Innovation. In Kingdom of Bahrain the innovation is weak due to the fact that Bahrain imports innovation from other countries. The study recommends that all companies listed in Bahrain Bourse to send their employees for special courses on corporate governance, which shows its benefits and to increase their awareness and advises to conduct a workshop of innovation in companies listed in Bahrain Bourse by professional institutes
Islamic Activism and Habermas' Theory of Strategic Action: a Case of Parade Tauhid in Jakarta
Authors: Siddiq Akhmad
Published: December 2016

Capturing the case of Parade Tauhid in Indonesia, this paper aims to describe embodied relationship between religion (Islam) and politics. As part of social action, Islamic activism provides variety of contention which is practiced in the name of “Islam”: ideologically, structurally, and purposely. Within his explanation of communicative action theory, Habermas acknowledges what so-called as “strategic action” which can be defined as every action oriented to success under the aspect of rational choice and assess the efficacy of influencing decisions or positions of rational opponent. In this context, Parade Tauhid is perceived to be conducted for reaching several political and theological purposes based on rational choices, although it is practiced by performing religious event. This paper attempts to describe definition of Islamic activism, explore the event of Parade Tauhid, and analyze the parade using Habermas’s theory of strategic action.Keywords: Islamic activism, Parade Tauhid, and strategic action.
Mengkaji Relasi Agama dan Ideologi
Authors: Hartanto Roni Dwi
Published: December 2016

Abstract:Religion and ideology are two interesting terms to be discussed and researched. Both of the terms were able to give an ideal purpose of life which is desirable by every human being. Both of religion and ideology were able to give comprehensive description about the “ideal-things” which is intended by the human being to look for the happiness of life. Both of religion and ideology have properly arranged the way to achieve the “ideal-condition” even needed serious struggle to realize it. Moreover, both of religion and ideology have also given inner satisfaction and strength to their followers. Religion and ideology can be illustrated as ‘both side of coin’ which is interrelated. Ideology can be as religion because of its power which is able to make available of the “ideal way” (solution) for its followers. As well as ideology, religion is not just spiritual way, but also able to make available “ideal description” and straighten up the dimension of life, socially, politically, and also culturally. Keywords: Religion, Ideology, Relation of Ideology and Religion, Modernity, and genocide.
Confucianism Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism
Authors: Usman Usman
Published: December 2016

This article tries to explore the fundamental values of Confucianism ethics and its influence to the emergence of Capitalism. By using Weber's thesis on the relationship between Protestant ethics and the spirit of capitalism, this paper concludes that the three important values of Confucianism Ethics (ren: benevolence, humaneness, li: rightness, righteousness, and fittingness, and yi: rules of proper conduct, ritual, and rites) are proposing people on how to become good human beings. If the Confucian follows these ethics properly, he/she will get the successful life. Although it is not guaranteed but the Confucianism ethics are still relevant to be practiced in contemporary situation. Some research findings recently showed that Confucianism ethics have really influence people to fulfill the "calling" (Weber's term) and it has also power to increase the spirit of capitalism. The rise of Japan, China, and the four little dragons (including South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore) is related to the development of Confucianism, and it directly brings down Weber's view point, which taught that Confucianism did not have the spirit of capitalism.KeywordsConfucianism Ethics, Confucian, Capitalism
Libet’s experiments and the problem of free will
Authors: Berber Andrea
Published: December 2016

The purpose of this paper is to give an answer to the question of the extent
to which Libet?s experiments are helping to solve the problem of free will.
Relevance of Libet?s experimental results for the problem of free will is
contested by the multitude of complaints. These complaints can be divided
into three categories: methodological objections, conceptual objections and
complaints regarding the interpretation of the role of readiness potential. I
am trying to show that only objections that belong to the last group have a
real effect. I conclude that Libet?s experiments while providing significant
incentives and suggestions for further research did not contribute to solving
the problem of free will.
Ksenija Atanasijevic on the women philosophers and the woman question in ancient philosophy
Authors: Deretic Irina
Published: December 2016

In this paper, I will attempt to interpret critically two mutually linked
aspects of the philosophical work of Ksenija Atanasijevic. That is to say, my
study will focus both on her elucidation of the ?emancipation of women? in
Plato and Rufus, and on the life and work of the Greek women philosophers.
Among these topics, the most important one is Plato?s argument in favor of
the ?women?s emancipation?, which produced many controversial and mutually
opposed interpretations. I will attempt to examine the interpretation of
Ksenija Atanasijevic by comparing and contrasting it with the most relevant
interpretations of this part of Republic. The purpose of this critical
analysis is to establish how adequate and relevant Ksenija Atanasijevic?s
readings of proto-feminist reflections of Plato and Rufus are, as well as
that of Greek women philosophers.
“Two aspects” or “two worlds”: Interpretations of Kant’s resolution of third conflict in antinomy
Authors: Sljukic Slavenko
Published: December 2016

In literature, there are two interpretations of Kant?s resolution of third
conflict in antinomy - ?two words? and ?two aspects?. I will attempt to show
that it is not possible to decide which interpretation is correct solely by
referring to Kant?s ?letter? (although referring to ?letter? is a necessary
condition). Afterwards I will offer argument that goes in favor to Allison?s
?two-aspect? interpretation. With this argument I will attempt to demonstrate
1) that Kohl?s version of interpretation of ?two worlds? (which I will show
it represents the strongest version of the interpretation) is contradictory
to Kant?s intention of validity of both determinism and freedom in his theory
and 2) that the intention is coherent to Allison?s ?two-aspect?
interpretation. The proof for 1) will be based upon a fact that determinism
cannot be considered irrelevant to any of the contexts, which will take the
interpretation of ?two worlds? to the absurd. On the other hand, ?two-aspect?
interpretation allows context in which determinism is irrelevant and that
will be the base of the proof for 2). Finally, I will attempt to show that
the chapter which refers to resolution of third conflict in antinomy is
coherent to the chapter named Canon of pure understanding. ?Patchwork? thesis
is against this thinking and I will, as well as interpreters Kohl and Esteves
have, dismiss it, but I will assert that Esteves?s defense of this coherence
is more successful than Kohl?s because he presupposes interpretation of ?two
worlds?, while Esteves implicitly presupposes ?two-aspect? interpretation.
Elevation of Peripheral BDNF Promoter Methylation Predicts Conversion from Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment to Alzheimer’s Disease: A 5-Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Xie Bing , Xu Yao , Liu Zanchao , Liu Wenxuan , Jiang Lei , Zhang Rui , Cui Dongsheng , Zhang Qingfu , Xu Shunjiang
Published: December 2016

Epigenetic aberrations have been identified as biomarkers to predict the risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This study aimed to evaluate whether altered DNA methylation status of BDNF promoter could be used as potential epigenetic biomarkers for predicting the progression from amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) to AD. A total of 506 aMCI patients and 728 cognitively normal controls were recruited in the cross-sectional analyses. Patients ( n = 458) from aMCI cohort were classified into two groups after 5-year follow-up: aMCI-stable group ( n = 330) and AD-conversion group ( n = 128). DNA methylation of BDNF promoter was detected by bisulfite-PCR amplification and pyrosequencing. The DNA methylation levels of CpG1 and CpG2 in promoter I and CpG5 and CpG6 in promoter IV of BDNF gene were significantly higher in the aMCI group than in the control group at baseline and also were increased in the conversion group compared with the non-conversion group at 5-year follow up time point. CpG5 in BDNF promoter IV had the highest AUC of 0.910 (95% CI: 0.817–0.983, p < 0.05). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a significant AD conversion propensity for aMCI patients with high methylation levels of CpG5 ( HR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.07–2.98, p < 0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed elevated methylation status of CpG5 was a significant independent predictor for AD conversion ( HR = 3.51, p = 0.013). These results suggest that elevation of peripheral BDNF promoter methylation might be used as potential epigenetic biomarkers for predicting the conversion from aMCI to AD.
Ann Wordsworth and the Clandestine University
Authors: Sellars Roy
Published: December 2016

This essay is both a tribute to the late Ann Wordsworth as teacher and, by the same token, a protest against the reduction of teaching to a form of administration in the contemporary university world. There is still, I maintain, a world elsewhere — if we can learn to listen for it carefully enough.
Superconducting phase diagrams of cuprates and pnictides as a key to understanding the HTSC mechanism
Authors: Mitsen K V , Ivanenko O M
Published: December 2016

This paper reviews experimental phase diagrams of cuprates and pnictides to demonstrate that specific features of the superconducting phase diagrams in both HTSC families can be understood within the framework of the proposed approach, which assumes the formation, under heterovalent doping, of localized trion complexes consisting of a doped carrier and charge transfer (CT) excitons. The geometry of such cells containing CT excitons (CT plaquettes) in the basal plane of the crystal is determined by its crystal structure and the type of dopant, so that the dopant concentration range corresponding to the existence of a percolation cluster of CT plaquettes can be readily determined for each particular compound. These dopant concentration ranges coincide with good accuracy with the experimental ranges of superconducting domes in the phase diagrams of the HTSC compounds considered. The generation of free carriers and the mechanism of superconducting pairing in this pattern is related to biexciton complexes (Heitler–London centers) emerging in neighboring CT plaquettes.
Nonsmooth Levenberg-Marquardt Type Method for Solving a Class of Stochastic Linear Complementarity Problems with Finitely Many Elements
Authors: Liu Zhimin , Du Shouqiang , Wang Ruiying
Published: December 2016

Our purpose of this paper is to solve a class of stochastic linear complementarity problems (SLCP) with finitely many elements. Based on a new stochastic linear complementarity problem function, a new semi-smooth least squares reformulation of the stochastic linear complementarity problem is introduced. For solving the semi-smooth least squares reformulation, we propose a feasible nonsmooth Levenberg–Marquardt-type method. The global convergence properties of the nonsmooth Levenberg–Marquardt-type method are also presented. Finally, the related numerical results illustrate that the proposed method is efficient for the related refinery production problem and the large-scale stochastic linear complementarity problems.
Feasibility Study of Rain Rate Monitoring from Polarimetric GNSS Propagation Parameters
Authors: An Hao , Yan Wei , Huang Yunxian , Zhao Xianbin , Wang Yingqiang , Ai Weihua
Published: December 2016

In this work, the feasibility of estimating rain rate based on polarimetric Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) signals is explored in theory. After analyzing the cause of polarimetric signals, three physical-mathematical relation models between co-polar phase shift (KHH, KVV), specific differential phase shift (KDP), and rain rate (R) are respectively investigated. These relation models are simulated based on four different empirical equations of nonspherical raindrops and simulated Gamma raindrop size distribution. They are also respectively analyzed based on realistic Gamma raindrop size distribution and maximum diameter of raindrops under three different rain types: stratiform rain, cumuliform rain, and mixed clouds rain. The sensitivity of phase shift with respect to some main influencing factors, such as shape of raindrops, frequency, as well as elevation angle, is also discussed, respectively. The numerical results in this study show that the results by scattering algorithms T-matrix are consistent with those from Rayleigh Scattering Approximation. It reveals that they all have the possibility to estimate rain rate using the KHH-R, KVV-R or KDP-R relation. It can also be found that the three models are all affected by shape of raindrops and frequency, while the elevation angle has no effect on KHH-R. Finally, higher frequency L1 or B1 and lower elevation angle are recommended and microscopic characteristics of raindrops, such as shape and size distribution, are deemed to be important and required for further consideration in future experiments. Since phase shift is not affected by attenuation and not biased by ground clutter cancellers, this method has considerable potential in precipitation monitoring, which provides new opportunities for atmospheric research.
New Frontiers in the Catalytic Synthesis of Levulinic Acid: From Sugars to Raw and Waste Biomass as Starting Feedstock
Authors: Antonetti Claudia , Licursi Domenico , Fulignati Sara , Valentini Giorgio , Raspolli Galletti Anna
Published: December 2016

Levulinic acid (LA) is one of the top bio-based platform molecules that can be converted into many valuable chemicals. It can be produced by acid catalysis from renewable resources, such as sugars, lignocellulosic biomass and waste materials, attractive candidates due to their abundance and environmentally benign nature. The LA transition from niche product to mass-produced chemical, however, requires its production from sustainable biomass feedstocks at low costs, adopting environment-friendly techniques. This review is an up-to-date discussion of the literature on the several catalytic systems that have been developed to produce LA from the different substrates. Special attention has been paid to the recent advancements on starting materials, moving from simple sugars to raw and waste biomasses. This aspect is of paramount importance from a sustainability point of view, transforming wastes needing to be disposed into starting materials for value-added products. This review also discusses the strategies to exploit the solid residues always obtained in the LA production processes, in order to attain a circular economy approach.
A Basin-Scale Estimation of Carbon Stocks of a Forest Ecosystem Characterized by Spatial Distribution and Contributive Features in the Liuxihe River Basin of Pearl River Delta
Authors: Zhang Chao , Xia Beicheng , Lin Junyu
Published: December 2016

Forest ecosystems make a greater contribution to carbon (C) stocks than any other terrestrial ecosystem. To understand the role of regional forest ecosystems in global climate change and carbon exchange, forest C stocks and their spatial distribution within the small (2300 km2) Liuxihe River basin in China were analyzed to determine the different contributors to the C stocks. Forest C stocks were quantified by measuring the biomass of trees, understory vegetation, litter and roots, as well as soil organic C, using data from field samples and laboratory experiments. The results showed that forests stored 38.04 Tg·C in the entire basin, with secondary and planted forests accounting for 89.82% and 10.18%, respectively, of the stored C. Five types of forests, a subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forest, a subtropical coniferous and broad-leaved mixed forest, a subtropical coniferous forest, a timber forest, and a non-wood forest, stored 257.55 ± 15.01, 218.92 ± 9.59, 195.24 ± 18.29, 177.42 ± 17.55, and 117.86 ± 6.04 Mg·C·ha−1, respectively. In the forest ecosystem C stocks of the basin, soils on average contributed about 73.78%, not including root underground biomass. The results of this study, which provide baseline forest C stock data for ecosystem services and regional C flux research, are useful to support the basin-scale forest management and land use change.
Stimulatory Effects of Cinnamon Extract (Cinnamomum cassia) during the Initiation Stage of 3T3-L1 Adipocyte Differentiation
Authors: Lee Sang , Siaw Joanna , Kang Hye
Published: December 2016

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) has an anti-diabetic effect by possibly increasing the lipid storage capacity of white adipocytes; however, this effect remains controversial. The aim of this study was to examine which stage of adipogenesis is critical for the stimulatory effect of cinnamon in adipogenesis using 3T3-L1 cells. Cells were treated with cinnamon extract during three different stages of adipogenesis. We found that genes related to adipogenesis and lipogenesis were enhanced when cinnamon extract was administered during the initiation stage of differentiation but not when administered during the preadipocyte and post stages of differentiation. At the same time, genes that were involved in the regulation of fatty acid oxidation were unexpectedly upregulated. Taken together, cinnamon may boost lipid storage in white adipocytes and increase the fatty acid oxidation capacity throughout the initiation stage of differentiation, which may be beneficial for the prevention of obesity-induced type II diabetes.
Evaluation of River Network Generalization Methods for Preserving the Drainage Pattern
Authors: Zhang Ling , Guilbert Eric
Published: December 2016

The drainage pattern of a river network is the arrangement in which a stream erodes the channels of its network of tributaries. It can reflect the geographical characteristics of a river network to a certain extent because it depends on the topography and geology of the land and as such should be considered during the river network generalization process. There are many methods for river network generalization in tributary selection but most do not explicitly consider the network pattern. Validation of the generalized result is performed visually by an expert and may not be done systematically. An automatic validation technique may help to better understand the results obtained with each method and check whether the pattern has been preserved. This paper proposes an approach to evaluate the quality of a generalized river network by assessing how well its original drainage pattern is preserved. The membership to a drainage pattern is evaluated by a set of geometric indicators, making use of a fuzzy logic approach which allows for a compromise between different criteria depending on the membership values. Three tributary selection methods are tested in this work: selection by stroke and length, catchment area, and a manually generalized network. Assessing the quality of a generalization is done by comparing pattern memberships before and after generalization. This research provides a quantitative indicator to assess the generalized river network in preserving geographical information.
The Regulation of Tumor Suppressor p63 by the Ubiquitin-Proteasome System
Authors: Armstrong Stephen , Wu Hong , Wang Benfan , Abuetabh Yasser , Sergi Consolato , Leng Roger
Published: December 2016

The protein p63 has been identified as a homolog of the tumor suppressor protein p53 and is capable of inducing apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, or senescence. p63 has at least six isoforms, which can be divided into two major groups: the TAp63 variants that contain the N-terminal transactivation domain and the ΔNp63 variants that lack the N-terminal transactivation domain. The TAp63 variants are generally considered to be tumor suppressors involved in activating apoptosis and suppressing metastasis. ΔNp63 variants cannot induce apoptosis but can act as dominant negative inhibitors to block the function of TAp53, TAp73, and TAp63. p63 is rarely mutated in human tumors and is predominately regulated at the post-translational level by phosphorylation and ubiquitination. This review focuses primarily on regulation of p63 by the ubiquitin E-3 ligase family of enzymes via ubiquitination and proteasome-mediated degradation, and introduces a new key regulator of the p63 protein.
Energy-Aware Forwarding Strategies for Delay Tolerant Network Routing Protocols
Authors: Kaviani Mahzad , Kusy Branislav , Jurdak Raja , Bergmann Neil , Liu Vicky
Published: December 2016

Delay Tolerant Networking (DTN) is well suited to challenging environments, defined by the lack of reliable end-to-end communication paths to the destination. However, the available energy is not considered in the majority of existing DTN routing protocols when they make forwarding decisions. This limits both delivery probabilities and the network lifetimes in energy-constrained applications. This paper investigates energy-aware routing protocols for wildlife tracking application to transmit data from attached sensors on the animal’s back to data collection base stations. We propose three new network protocol strategies to extend common DTN routing protocols, and consider the available energy to achieve efficient utilization of the node’s energy in transmission and sensing. These strategies enhance packet delivery rates up to 13% by carefully using the limited energy resources. We simulate two different animal tracking scenarios and show that the new strategies provide significant performance improvement under different scenarios.
Decomposition of Intermolecular Interactions in the Crystal Structure of Some Diacetyl Platinum(II) Complexes: Combined Hirshfeld, AIM, and NBO Analyses
Authors: Soliman Saied , Barakat Assem
Published: December 2016

Intermolecular interactions play a vital role in crystal structures. Therefore, we conducted a topological study, using Hirshfeld surfaces and atom in molecules (AIM) analysis, to decompose and analyze, respectively, the different intermolecular interactions in six hydrazone-diacetyl platinum(II) complexes. Using AIM and natural bond orbital (NBO) analyses, we determined the type, nature, and strength of the interactions. All the studied complexes contain C-H⋯O interactions, and the presence of bond critical points along the intermolecular paths underlines their significance. The electron densities (ρ(r)) at the bond critical points (0.0031–0.0156 e/a03) fall within the typical range for H-bonding interactions. Also, the positive values of the Laplacian of the electron density (∇2ρ(r)) revealed the depletion of electronic charge on the interatomic path, another characteristic feature of closed-shell interactions. The ratios of the absolute potential energy density to the kinetic energy density (|V(r)|/G(r)) and ρ(r) are highest for the O2⋯H15-N3 interaction in [Pt(COMe)2(2-pyCMe=NNH2)] (1); hence, this interaction has the highest covalent character of all the O⋯H intermolecular interactions. Interestingly, in [Pt(COMe)2(H2NN=CMe-CMe=NNH2)] (3), there are significant N-H⋯Pt interactions. Using the NBO method, the second-order interaction energies, E(2), of these interactions range from 3.894 to 4.061 kJ/mol. Furthermore, the hybrid Pt orbitals involved in these interactions are comprised of dxy, dxz, and s atomic orbitals.
Using Light Microscopy and Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry for Qualitative and Quantitative Control of a Combined Three-Herb Formulation in Different Preparations
Authors: Hsueh Tun-Pin , Lin Wan-Ling , Tsai Tung-Hu
Published: December 2016

Artemisia capillaries Thunb, Gardenia jasminoides Ellis, and Rheum officinale Baill have been combined to treat jaundice for thousands of years. Studies have revealed that these herbs induce anti-hepatic fibrosis and anti-hepatic apoptosis and alleviate hepatic oxidative stress. This study aims to determine the quality and quantity of an herbal formulation (Chinese name: Yin-Chen-Hao-Tang) using physical and chemical examinations. Physical examination of Yin-Chen-Hao-Tang in pharmaceutical herbal products, raw fiber powders, and decoction preparations was performed using Congo red and iodine-potassium staining. A sensitive and validated method employing ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) was developed to simultaneously quantify the bioactive compounds scoparone, geniposide, and rhein in the Yin-Chen-Hao-Tang formulation in different preparations. Physical examination indicated that cellulose fibers with irregular round shapes were present in the pharmaceutical herbal products. The developed UHPLC-MS/MS method showed good linearity and was well validated. The quantification results revealed that the decoction preparations had the highest amounts of geniposide and rhein. Scoparone appeared in pharmaceutical herbal products from two manufacturers. This experiment provides a qualitative and quantitative method using physical and chemical examinations to test different preparations of herbal products. The results provide a reference for clinical herbal product preparations and further pharmacokinetic research.
Synthesis and Antitumor Activity of 5-Bromo-7-azaindolin-2-one Derivatives Containing a 2,4-Dimethyl-1H-pyrrole-3-carboxamide Moiety
Authors: Zhang Jun , Shen Weiyi , Li Xiaoning , Chai Yun , Li Senjun , Lv Kai , Guo Huiyuan , Liu Mingliang
Published: December 2016

We report herein the design and synthesis of a series of novel 5-bromo-7-azaindolin-2-one derivatives containing a 2,4-dimethyl-1H-pyrrole-3-carboxamide moiety. These newly synthesized derivatives were evaluated for in vitro activity against selected cancer cell lines by MTT assay. Results revealed that some compounds exhibit broad-spectrum antitumor potency, and the most active compound 23p (IC50: 2.357–3.012 μM) was found more potent than Sunitinib (IC50: 31.594–49.036 μM) against HepG2, A549 and Skov-3, respectively.
Polymorphism of the Transcription Factor 7-Like 2 Gene (TCF7L2) Interacts with Obesity on Type-2 Diabetes in the PREDIMED Study Emphasizing the Heterogeneity of Genetic Variants in Type-2 Diabetes Risk Prediction: Time for Obesity-Specific Genetic Risk Scores
Authors: Corella Dolores , Coltell Oscar , Sorlí Jose , Estruch Ramón , Quiles Laura , Martínez-González Miguel , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , Castañer Olga , Arós Fernando , Ortega-Calvo Manuel , Serra-Majem Lluís , Gómez-Gracia Enrique , Portolés Olga , Fiol Miquel , Díez Espino Javier , Basora Josep , Fitó Montserrat , Ros Emilio , Ordovás José
Published: December 2016

Nutrigenetic studies analyzing gene–diet interactions of the TCF7L2-rs7903146 C > T polymorphism on type-2 diabetes (T2D) have shown controversial results. A reason contributing to this may be the additional modulation by obesity. Moreover, TCF7L2-rs7903146 is one of the most influential variants in T2D-genetic risk scores (GRS). Therefore, to increase the predictive value (PV) of GRS it is necessary to first see whether the included polymorphisms have heterogeneous effects. We comprehensively investigated gene-obesity interactions between the TCF7L2-rs7903146 C > T polymorphism on T2D (prevalence and incidence) and analyzed other T2D-polymorphisms in a sub-sample. We studied 7018 PREDIMED participants at baseline and longitudinally (8.7 years maximum follow-up). Obesity significantly interacted with the TCF7L2-rs7903146 on T2D prevalence, associations being greater in non-obese subjects. Accordingly, we prospectively observed in non-T2D subjects (n = 3607) that its association with T2D incidence was stronger in non-obese (HR: 1.81; 95% CI: 1.13–2.92, p = 0.013 for TT versus CC) than in obese subjects (HR: 1.01; 95% CI: 0.61–1.66; p = 0.979; p-interaction = 0.048). Accordingly, TCF7L2-PV was higher in non-obese subjects. Additionally, we created obesity-specific GRS with ten T2D-polymorphisms and demonstrated for the first time their higher strata-specific PV. In conclusion, we provide strong evidence supporting the need for considering obesity when analyzing the TCF7L2 effects and propose the use of obesity-specific GRS for T2D.
Miscibility, Morphology and Crystallization Behavior of Poly(Butylene Succinate-co-Butylene Adipate)/Poly(Vinyl Phenol)/Poly(l-Lactic Acid) Blends
Authors: Si Pengfei , Luo Faliang , Luo Fahai
Published: December 2016

Amorphous poly(vinyl phenol) (PVPh) is introduced into poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate)/poly(l-lactic acid) (PBSA/PLLA) blends via solution casting. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis verifies that intermolecular hydrogen bonding formed in PBSA/PVPh/PLLA blends. The miscibility between PBSA and PLLA is improved with PVPh incorporation as evidenced by approaching Tgs of the two components. When PVPh content reaches up to 50 wt %, the blend sample exhibits only one Tg, meaning complete miscibility between PBSA and PLLA. The improved miscibility of PBSA/PLLA blends is further confirmed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Typical “see-island” phase separation structure for PBSA/PLLA blend transforms into homogenous phase structure for blend samples with 5 wt % PVPh and above. Non-isothermal crystallization analysis shows that the crystallization temperature and crystallization enthalpy of PBSA decrease with PVPh addition, and those of PLLA also show a decreasing trend. Isothermal crystallization rate of PBSA in blend samples distinctly decreases with PVPh incorporation, whereas that of PLLA in blend samples increases slightly with PVPh addition. Wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD) analysis indicated that PLLA in blend samples remained partly crystallized, while PBSA turned into amorphous state with increasing PVPh contents.
Disposable, Paper-Based, Inkjet-Printed Humidity and H2S Gas Sensor for Passive Sensing Applications
Authors: Quddious Abdul , Yang Shuai , Khan Munawar , Tahir Farooq , Shamim Atif , Salama Khaled , Cheema Hammad
Published: December 2016

An inkjet-printed, fully passive sensor capable of either humidity or gas sensing is presented herein. The sensor is composed of an interdigitated electrode, a customized printable gas sensitive ink and a specialized dipole antenna for wireless sensing. The interdigitated electrode printed on a paper substrate provides the base conductivity that varies during the sensing process. Aided by the porous nature of the substrate, a change in relative humidity from 18% to 88% decreases the electrode resistance from a few Mega-ohms to the kilo-ohm range. For gas sensing, an additional copper acetate-based customized ink is printed on top of the electrode, which, upon reaction with hydrogen sulphide gas (H2S) changes, both the optical and the electrical properties of the electrode. A fast response time of 3 min is achieved at room temperature for a H2S concentration of 10 ppm at a relative humidity (RH) of 45%. The passive wireless sensing is enabled through an antenna in which the inner loop takes care of conductivity changes in the 4–5 GHz band, whereas the outer-dipole arm is used for chipless identification in the 2–3 GHz band.
Tumor Microenvironment Metabolism: A New Checkpoint for Anti-Tumor Immunity
Authors: Scharping Nicole , Delgoffe Greg
Published: December 2016

When a T cell infiltrates a tumor, it is subjected to a variety of immunosuppressive and regulatory signals in the microenvironment. However, it is becoming increasingly clear that due to the proliferative and energetically-deregulated nature of tumor cells, T cells also operate at a metabolic disadvantage. The nutrient dearth of the tumor microenvironment (TME) creates “metabolic checkpoints” upon infiltrating T cells, impacting their ability to survive, proliferate and function effectively. In this review, we summarize the basics of tumor cell and T cell metabolism and discuss recent advances elucidating the individual metabolic checkpoints exerted on T cells that drive their dysfunction in the TME.
Cumulative Effects Analysis of the Water Quality Risk of Herbicides Used for Site Preparation in the Central North Island, New Zealand
Authors: Neary Daniel , Baillie Brenda
Published: December 2016

Herbicide use varies both spatially and temporally within managed forests. While information exists on the effects of herbicide use on water quality at the site and small catchment scale, little is known about the cumulative effects of herbicide use at the landscape scale. A cumulative effects analysis was conducted in the upper Rangitaiki catchment (118,345 ha) in New Zealand, to determine the risk to water quality from two herbicides commonly used for post-plant weed control: terbuthylazine and hexazinone. Data from a 12.5 ha catchment study within the Rangitaiki Basin, where these herbicides were aerially applied in two consecutive years, were used to model herbicide concentrations entering the Rangitaiki River for the remaining treated areas in the catchment for the same two spray seasons. A spreadsheet model routed herbicide residues from their point of entry into the river to a flow gauge on the Rangitaiki River. Modeling of chemical residue loadings and concentrations of terbuthylazine and hexazinone indicated that potential herbicide residues in stream waters would be mainly below analytical detection limits and pose no risk to the aquatic environment or human health and safety. Safety factors for drinking water quality standards, aquatic organisms, and human Acceptable Daily Intake levels were very large.
Radioiodtherapie bei benignen Schilddrüsenerkrankungen (Version 5)*
Authors: Grünwald Frank , Schmidt Matthias , Schneider Peter , Verburg Frederik , Luster Markus , Dietlein Markus
Published: December 2016

Die Version 5 der Leitlinie zur Radioiodtherapie bei benignen Schilddrüsenerkrankungen ist ein Update der Version 4, die im Jahr 2007 durch die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Nuklearmedizin (DGN) in Abstimmung mit der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Endokrinologie (DGE, Sektion Schilddrüse) und der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Allgemein- und Viszeralchirurgie (DGAV) publiziert worden war. Die Leitlinie ist mit den Empfehlungen der European Association of Nuclear Medicine (EANM) harmonisiert worden. Nach der „Richtlinie Strahlenschutz in der Medizin“ ist die „rechtfertigende Indikation“ zur Radioiodtherapie durch einen fachkundigen Arzt („Fachkunde in der Therapie mit offenen radioaktiven Stoffen“) zu stellen. Daher werden Indikationen zur Radioiodtherapie und alternative Behandlungsmöglichkeiten in dieser Leitlinie diskutiert. Die Leitlinie wurde von einer repräsentativen Expertengruppe im informellen Konsens verabschiedet und entspricht damit einer Verfahrensanweisung der ersten Stufe (S1) nach den Kriterien der Arbeitsgemeinschaft der Wissenschaftlichen Medizinischen Fachgesellschaften (AWMF).
Eye Movement Analysis and Cognitive Assessment
Authors: Gamito Pedro , Oliveira Jorge , Morais Diogo , Pavlovic Matthew , Smyth Olivia , Maia Inês , Gomes Tiago , Rosa Pedro J.
Published: December 2016

Background: An adequate behavioral response depends on attentional and mnesic processes. When these basic cognitive functions are impaired, the use of non-immersive Virtual Reality Applications (VRAs) can be a reliable technique for assessing the level of impairment. However, most non-immersive VRAs use indirect measures to make inferences about visual attention and mnesic processes (e.g., time to task completion, error rate).

Objectives: To examine whether the eye movement analysis through eye tracking (ET) can be a reliable method to probe more effectively where and how attention is deployed and how it is linked with visual working memory during comparative visual search tasks (CVSTs) in non-immersive VRAs.

Methods: The eye movements of 50 healthy participants were continuously recorded while CVSTs, selected from a set of cognitive tasks in the Systemic Lisbon Battery (SLB). Then a VRA designed to assess of cognitive impairments were randomly presented.

Results: The total fixation duration, the number of visits in the areas of interest and in the interstimulus space, along with the total execution time was significantly different as a function of the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores.

Conclusions: The present study demonstrates that CVSTs in SLB, when combined with ET, can be a reliable and unobtrusive method for assessing cognitive abilities in healthy individuals, opening it to potential use in clinical samples.
Copper-catalyzed asymmetric sp3 C–H arylation of tetrahydroisoquinoline mediated by a visible light photoredox catalyst
Authors: Querard Pierre , Perepichka Inna , Zysman-Colman Eli , Li Chao-Jun
Published: December 2016

This report describes a highly enantioselective oxidative sp3 C–H arylation of N-aryltetrahydroisoquinolines (THIQs) through a dual catalysis platform. The combination of the photoredox catalyst, [Ir(ppy)2(dtbbpy)]PF6, and chiral copper catalysts provide a mild and highly effective sp3 C–H asymmetric arylation of THIQs.
A fuzzy AHP model to assess sustainable performance of the construction industry from urban regeneration perspective
Authors: IŞIK Zeynep , ALADAĞ Hande
Published: December 2016

The construction industry needs to assess its performance in the long term, considering the intangible pa­rameters together with the tangible ones. Urban regeneration as well as infrastructural development have considerable impacts on the construction industry performance in developing countries. Therefore, in order to provide efficient and sustainable performance for the construction industry in the long term, it is crucial to determine the benchmarks and indicators from the perspective of those projects. In this context, major objective of this study is to represent a model showing the parameters affecting the sustainable performance of construction industry from urban regeneration perspec­tive. Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) analysis was employed in order to determine measures and indicators associated with sustainable performance and a model was established reaching the objective of the study. According to the FAHP analysis results, among measures such as Company Performance, Extrinsic, Economic, Environmental, Social and Innovational Factors set in the research, intangible values such as innovation and social protection were also found to have prior effects as well as the inevitable tangible ones such as cost, profitability and macro economy to sustain the performance of the construction industry for urban regeneration projects in the long term.
La parentalité à l’épreuve de l’exil : un groupe à médiation, multiculturel et pluridisciplinaire
Authors: Allafort Céline , Sanca Roxana , Postolache Irina , Mantrach Zineb
Published: December 2016

L’atelier « Accueil du nouveau-né et parentalité » est un dispositif à médiation proposé dans un centre d’accueil de demandeurs d’asile ( cada ). La médiation est donc utilisée en tant qu’outil de soin thérapeutique à la croisée des champs cliniques de l’exil et de la périnatalité. En appui sur le groupe, ses fonctions et les objets culturels en place de médium, le dispositif vise à réinstaurer de la continuité face à la discontinuité induite par l’exil d’une part et les remaniements psychiques liés à la maternité d’autre part. Créer des liens entre le passé et le présent, l’ici et l’ailleurs, le corps et la psyché, la mère et son bébé, et ainsi restaurer la continuité de soi et dans le rapport à l’autre, sont autant d’éléments qui circonscrivent les indications. Partant de situations cliniques, les auteurs montrent comment l’espace transitionnel créé permet la revalorisation des compétences parentales et accompagne la construction de la relation mère-bébé grâce à un métissage des pratiques.
Surplus d’épargne et déficit d’investissement : quelles solutions ?
Authors: Villeroy de Galhau François , Jaillet Pierre , Pollin Jean-Paul
Published: December 2016

L’économie européenne est aujourd’hui confrontée à un réel défi de financement qui handicape les conditions de sa croissance. Il est donc nécessaire de construire une véritable « Union de financement et d’investissement » qui permette à la fois de diversifier les financements des entreprises, de réorienter l’épargne des ménages vers le long terme et de développer un véritable marché européen du capital. Il faut en particulier veiller à ce que le système financier puisse remplir au mieux sa fonction d’allocation des capitaux et ainsi financer l’investissement productif. Pour cela, une augmentation importante des exigences en capital pesant sur les banques doit être évitée. Il faut également créer de nouveaux produits d’épargne et éviter les distorsions fiscales qui favorisent les placements courts et liquides. Enfin la diversité des canaux de financements doit être assurée et il faut poursuivre les réformes réglementaires visant à mieux contrôler le shadow banking et à assurer sa stabilité. Classification JEL : E21, E22, E6, F36, G20.
Les imperfections de l’intégration financière internationale
Authors: Garnier Olivier
Published: December 2016

Les crises récentes, tant dans la zone dollar que dans la zone euro, ont été alimentées par des imperfections dans le processus d'intégration financière internationale : cette dernière a trop largement reposé sur les instruments de dettes plutôt que sur les investissements directs et en actions. D'où une exposition excessive au risque de liquidité externe et, corrélativement, une demande excessive d'assurance « publique » externe, soit par accumulation de la monnaie de réserve (zone dollar), soit par des mécanismes de mutualisation budgétaire (zone euro). Le processus de diversification des avoirs externes de la Chine, d'une part, et l'Union des marchés de capitaux en Europe, d'autre part, constituent des opportunités pour promouvoir un plus grand recours à des mécanismes de mutualisation internationale des risques via les marchés privés de fonds propres. Classification JEL : F21, F34, F36.
Les dangers du passage à un modèle désintermédié du financement des entreprises dans la zone euro
Authors: Artus Patrick
Published: December 2016

On observe que les entreprises de la zone euro se financent déjà davantage sur les marchés financiers et moins par le crédit bancaire. Cette évolution est due aux nouvelles réglementations imposées aux banques européennes, mais correspond aussi à la vision théorique selon laquelle les financements sur les marchés seraient plus efficaces. Nous pensons que le basculement des entreprises de la zone euro vers un financement sur les marchés de capitaux est une erreur pour deux raisons : la faible demande d'actifs risqués par les épargnants et la nécessité avec ce type de financement d'une forte flexibilité du marché du travail. Classification JEL : G20, G32.
Le rôle des marchés de capitaux dans le financement de l’économie américaine
Authors: Malapert Benoît
Published: December 2016

À l'occasion des réflexions menées à l'échelle européenne sur le développement d'une union des marchés de capitaux, la référence est souvent faite au modèle de financement désintermédié de l'économie américaine qui repose, de manière plus limitée qu'en Europe, sur les financements bancaires. Cette structure de financement semble davantage le résultat d'un long processus historique, marqué par une influence conjointe de facteurs liés à la taille du marché et à la réglementation que celui d'un choix stratégique des autorités. La titrisation des crédits, très répandue notamment dans l'immobilier, contribue aussi à expliquer la structure du financement de l'économie. Classification JEL : G20, G28, N21.
La place de l’assurance et de la réassurance dans la recomposition des institutions financières
Authors: Trainar Philippe
Published: December 2016

La place de la (ré)assurance dans l'économie continue de progresser et ces activités ont fait preuve d'une grande résilience à la crise. Le secteur est actuellement confronté à plusieurs changements profonds. Les pouvoirs publics ont souhaité renforcer la réglementation prudentielle et ce, au moment même où on observait un accroissement significatif de l'intensité capitalistique, et on assiste parallèlement à une internationalisation croissante des activités. La crise et les politiques monétaires ont incité les (ré)assureurs à réduire le poids des actions et des obligations souveraines dans leurs portefeuilles d'actifs et à se tourner vers les investissements « alternatifs » pour compenser les effets des taux d'intérêt nuls ou négatifs. Cette résilience du secteur et sa profitabilité ont accru son attractivité auprès des investisseurs, avec pour conséquence des capacités de couverture accrues et des pressions à la baisse sur les tarifs de certaines lignes d'activité, notamment en catastrophes naturelles. Pour autant, la recomposition du secteur n'est pas achevée. Classification JEL : G01, G22, L11.
Equality of Opportunity: A progress report
Authors: Trannoy Alain
Published: December 2016

L’objet de cet article est d’offrir un tour d’horizon pour non-spécialistes sur la façon dont les économistes ont progressivement appréhendé le concept d’égalité des chances. L’idée clé est que l’égalité des chances ne se préoccupe pas seulement d’égalité ex-ante , quelque chose que le nom même de l’égalité des chances suggère, mais aussi d’égalité ex-post , ce qui rend l’analyse vraiment différente de celle des capabilités. L’article est structuré en trois parties. La première partie s’intéresse aux principaux débats théoriques concernant l’égalité des chances. Nous enchaînons sur des questions touchant aux problèmes de mesure de l’inégalité des chances avant de présenter quelques résultats empiriques. Enfin nous terminons par les défis auxquels sont confrontés les politiques visant à promouvoir l’égalité des chances.