bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water Mediated Domino Knoevenagel‐Michael‐cyclocondensation Reaction of Malononitrile, Various Aldehydes and Barbituric Acid Derivatives Using Boric Acid Aqueous Solution System Compared with Nano‐titania Sulfuric Acid
Authors: Khazaei Ardeshir , Nik Heidar Ali Alavi , Moosavi‐Zare Ahmad Reza
Published: August 2015

Nano‐titania sulfuric acid (TSA) and boric acid [B(OH)3] were efficiently utilized for domino Knoevenagel‐Michael‐cyclocondensation reaction of malononitrile, various aldehydes and barbituric acid derivatives to synthesis of pyrano[2,3‐d]pyrimidine diones. It is interesting that in boric acid aqueous solution system, H+ which abstracted from water by the interaction with B(OH)3, efficiently catalyzed the reaction.
The Vertical Distribution of Soil Seed Bank and Its Restoration Implication in an Active Sand Dune of Northeastern Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Qian Jianqiang , Liu Zhimin , Hatier Jean‐Hugues B. , Liu Bo
Published: August 2015

Although the functions and characteristics of soil seed banks in topsoil layers have been described for various ecosystems, the spatiotemporal pattern of the seed bank in deep soil and its ecological implications for vegetation restoration of active sand dune have not been fully explored. In 2007 and 2008, seed densities with regard to dune position, soil depth and season were investigated on an active and a stabilized sand dune of northeastern Inner Mongolia, China. Seeds in the 0–10 cm topsoil layer accounted for 60% of total soil seed bank on the stabilized sand dune, while more than 40% of seeds were stored in the 50–100 cm layers on the active sand dune. Seed density declined significantly with soil depth on the stabilized sand dune, but it was relatively constant across the 0–100 cm soil profile on the active sand dune. Seed density fluctuated with soil depth on the active sand dune suggesting that seeds were either relocated upward or downward over time. Seeds of annual non‐psammophytic species accounted for the majority of soil seed bank on the stabilized sand dune, while pioneer psammophytes contributed more to the soil seed bank of the active sand dune. Our data suggest that seeds in the deep soil layers of active sand dunes account for a large proportion of the whole soil seed bank. Because of the effect of wind erosion, seeds in deep soil could be gradually exposed to shallow soil layers and potentially contribute to population recruitment and vegetation restoration on active sand dunes. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A coupled poroplastic damage model accounting for cracking effects on both hydraulic and mechanical properties of unsaturated media
Authors: Bui Tuan Anh , Wong Henry , Deleruyelle Frederic , Zhou Annan , Lei Xiaoqin
Published: August 2015

Damage induced by microcracking affects not only the mechanical behaviour of geomaterials but also their hydraulic properties. Evaluating these impacts is important for many engineering applications, such as the safety assessment of radioactive waste disposal facilities. This paper presents a new constitutive model accounting simultaneously for the impact of damage on hydraulic and mechanical properties of unsaturated poroplastic geomaterials. The hydro‐mechanical coupling is formulated by means of the thermodynamic framework for partially saturated media, extended by taking into account isotropic damage and plasticity. State and complementary laws are governed by the so‐called plastic effective stress and equivalent pore pressure. Assuming a bimodal pore size distribution for cracked porous media, the hydraulic part (water retention curve and hydraulic conductivity) is modelled using phenomenological functions of damage variable. The participation of damage on both mechanical and hydraulic part enables this model to describe bilateral couplings between them. This coupled model is then validated against a number of experimental data obtained from Callovo‐Oxfordian argillite, which is the possible host rock for a radioactive waste disposal in France. Parametric studies are also carried out to check the consistency and to better demonstrate the bilateral couplings in the model. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Non‐normality and induced plastic anisotropy under fractional plastic flow rule: a numerical study
Authors: Sumelka Wojciech , Nowak Marcin
Published: August 2015

In this paper, an implementation of fractional plastic flow rule in the framework of implicit and explicit procedures is under consideration. The fractional plastic flow rule is obtained from a generalisation of the classical plastic flow rule utilising fractional calculus. The key feature of this new concept is that in general, the non‐associative flow is obtained without necessity of additional potential assumption. If needed, the model can cover the anisotropy induced by plastic deformation. Illustrative examples showing the unusual flexibility of this model are also presented. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nurse Staffing in Neonatal Intensive Care Units in the United States
Authors: Rogowski Jeannette A. , Staiger Douglas O. , Patrick Thelma E. , Horbar Jeffrey D. , Kenny Michael J. , Lake Eileen T.
Published: August 2015

The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is a setting with high nurse‐to‐patient ratios. Little is known about the factors that determine nurse workload and assignment. The goals of this study were to (1) develop a measure of NICU infant acuity; (2) describe the acuity distribution of NICU infants; (3) describe the nurse/infant ratio at each acuity level, and examine the factors other than acuity, including nurse qualifications and the availability of physicians and other providers, that determined staffing ratios; and (4) explore whether nurse qualifications were related to the acuity of assigned infants. In a two‐stage cohort study, data were collected in 104 NICUs in 2008 by nurse survey (6,038 nurses and 15,191 infants assigned to them) and administrators reported on unit‐level staffing of non‐nurse providers; in a subset of 70 NICUs in 2009–2010, census data were collected on four selected shifts (3,871 nurses and 9,276 infants assigned to them). Most NICU infants (62%) were low‐acuity (Levels 1 and 2); 12% of infants were high‐acuity (Levels 4 and 5). The nurse‐to‐infant ratio ranged from 0.33 for the lowest‐acuity infants to 0.95 for the highest‐acuity infants. The staffing ratio was significantly related to the acuity of assigned infants but not to nurse education, experience, certification, or availability of other providers. There was a significant but small difference in the percentage of high‐acuity (Levels 4 and 5) infants assigned to nurses with specialty certification (15% vs. 12% for nurses without certification). These staffing patterns may not optimize patient outcomes in this highly intensive pediatric care setting. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Symmetries and analytical solutions of the Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equation for a class of optimal control problems
Authors: Rodrigues Luis , Henrion Didier , Cantwell Brian J.
Published: August 2015

The main contribution of this paper is to identify explicit classes of locally controllable second‐order systems and optimization functionals for which optimal control problems can be solved analytically, assuming that a differentiable optimal cost‐to‐go function exists for such control problems. An additional contribution of the paper is to obtain a Lyapunov function for the same classes of systems. The paper addresses the Lie point symmetries of the Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman (HJB) equation for optimal control of second‐order nonlinear control systems that are affine in a single input and for which the cost is quadratic in the input. It is shown that if there exists a dilation symmetry of the HJB equation for optimal control problems in this class, this symmetry can be used to obtain a solution. It is concluded that when the cost on the state preserves the dilation symmetry, solving the optimal control problem is reduced to finding the solution to a first‐order ordinary differential equation. For some cases where the cost on the state breaks the dilation symmetry, the paper also presents an alternative method to find analytical solutions of the HJB equation corresponding to additive control inputs. The relevance of the proposed methodologies is illustrated in several examples for which analytical solutions are found, including the Van der Pol oscillator and mass–spring systems. Furthermore, it is proved that in the well‐known case of a linear quadratic regulator, the quadratic cost is precisely the cost that preserves the dilation symmetry of the equation. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expanded proximate time‐optimal servo control of permanent magnet synchronous motor
Authors: Lu Tao , Cheng Guoyang
Published: August 2015

This paper extends the existing proximate time‐optimal servomechanism control methodology to the more typical second‐order servo systems with a damping element. A parameterized design of expanded proximate time‐optimal servomechanism control law with a speed‐dependent linear region is presented for rapid and smooth set‐point tracking using a bounded input signal. The control scheme uses the time‐optimal bang‐bang control law to accomplish maximum acceleration or braking whenever appropriate and then smoothly switches into a linear control law to achieve a bumpless settling. The closed‐loop stability is analyzed, and then the control scheme is applied to the position–velocity control loop in a permanent magnet synchronous motor servo system for set‐point position regulation. Numerical simulation has been conducted, followed by experimental verification based on a TMS320F2812 digital signal controller board. The results confirm that the servo system can track a wide range of target references with superior transient performance and steady‐state accuracy. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reproductive genetic counseling challenges associated with diagnostic exome sequencing in a large academic private reproductive genetic counseling practice
Authors: Westerfield Lauren E. , Stover Samantha R. , Mathur Veena S. , Nassef Salma A. , Carter Tiffiney G. , Yang Yaping , Eng Christine M. , Van den Veyver Ignatia B.
Published: August 2015

Objective

Diagnostic whole exome sequencing (WES) is rapidly entering clinical genetics, but experience with reproductive genetic counseling aspects is limited. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively review and report on our experience with preconception and prenatal genetic counseling for diagnostic WES.

Method

We performed a retrospective chart review over 34 months in a large private prenatal genetic counseling practice and analyzed data for referral indications, findings, and results of genetic counseling related to diagnostic WES.

Results

Ten of 14 patients counseled about diagnostic WES for ongoing pregnancies pursued the test, resulting in identification of three pathogenic variants (30%). Five of 15 patients seeking counseling about familial WES results in an affected proband pursued prenatal diagnosis, resulting in identification of one affected fetus and five unaffected fetuses. We experienced challenges related to complexity and uncertainty of results, turnaround time, cost and insurance overage, and multidisciplinary fetal care coordination.

Conclusion

Despite having experienced complexity and identified challenges of the reproductive genetic counseling, availability of diagnostic WES contributed important information that aided in prenatal care planning and decision‐making. Future enhanced provider education and larger studies to systematically study the integration of WES in reproductive genetic counseling and prenatal care will be important. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exome sequencing for prenatal diagnosis of fetuses with sonographic abnormalities
Authors: Drury Suzanne , Williams Hywel , Trump Natalie , Boustred Christopher ,   GOSGene, Lench Nicholas , Scott Richard H. , Chitty Lyn S.
Published: August 2015

Objective

In the absence of aneuploidy or other pathogenic cytogenetic abnormality, fetuses with increased nuchal translucency (NT ≥ 3.5 mm) and/or other sonographic abnormalities have a greater incidence of genetic syndromes, but defining the underlying pathology can be challenging. Here, we investigate the value of whole exome sequencing in fetuses with sonographic abnormalities but normal microarray analysis.

Method

Whole exome sequencing was performed on DNA extracted from chorionic villi or amniocytes in 24 fetuses with unexplained ultrasound findings. In the first 14 cases sequencing was initially performed on fetal DNA only. For the remaining 10, the trio of fetus, mother and father was sequenced simultaneously.

Results

In 21% (5/24) cases, exome sequencing provided definitive diagnoses (Milroy disease, hypophosphatasia, achondrogenesis type 2, Freeman–Sheldon syndrome and Baraitser–Winter Syndrome). In a further case, a plausible diagnosis of orofaciodigital syndrome type 6 was made. In two others, a single mutation in an autosomal recessive gene was identified, but incomplete sequencing coverage precluded exclusion of the presence of a second mutation.

Conclusion

Whole exome sequencing improves prenatal diagnosis in euploid fetuses with abnormal ultrasound scans. In order to expedite interpretation of results, trio sequencing should be employed, but interpretation can still be compromised by incomplete coverage of relevant genes. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High efficiency arrays of polymer solar cells fabricated by spray‐coating in air
Authors: Zhang Yiwei , Griffin Jonathan , Scarratt Nicholas W. , Wang Tao , Lidzey David G.
Published: August 2015

We present bulk heterojunction organic solar cells fabricated by spray‐casting both the PEDOT:PSS hole‐transport layer (HTL) and active PBDTTT‐EFT:PC71BM layers in air. Devices were fabricated in a (6 × 6) array across a large‐area substrate (25 cm2) with each pixel having an active area of 6.45 mm2. We show that the film uniformity and operational homogeneity of the devices are excellent. The champion device with spray cast active layer on spin cast PEDOT:PSS had an power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 8.75%, and the best device with spray cast active layer and PEDOT:PSS had a PCE of 8.06%. The impacts of air and light exposure of the active layer on device performance are investigated and found to be detrimental. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lack of concordance in parapneumonic effusion management in children in central Europe
Authors: Hafen Gaudenz M. , Grenzbach Andrea‐Claudia , Moeller Alexander , Rochat Mascha K.
Published: August 2015

Treatment of parapneumonic effusion in children remains controversial in the literature and in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to determine whether mutual consensus exists in the diagnosis and treatment of parapneumonic effusion in Central European countries. A questionnaire was sent to all directors of pediatric respiratory units in four adjacent Central European countries (Austria, France, Germany, Switzerland). The response rate was 61.8%. Responses reflected acceptable agreement regarding initial diagnostic procedures, as most centers performed chest X‐ray and biological exams, followed by ultrasound, thoracocentesis, or computed tomography. However, antibiotic regimens were very heterogeneous, and the survey revealed complete lack of agreement on the indications and effusion volume threshold for invasive procedures, such as fibrinolytic instillation and thoracoscopy. In conclusion, apart from initial diagnostic procedures, this study showed a lack of mutual consensus among the four countries regarding the management of pediatric parapneumonic effusion. Multicenter prospective trials are clearly needed to acquire more evidence on the management of childhood parapneumonic effusion, enabling the development of evidence‐based algorithms that could help to avoid unnecessary examinations with potential long‐term side effects, such as radiation exposure at a young age. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2016;51:411–417. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Growth mechanisms of GaN microrods for 3D core–shell LEDs: The influence of silane flow
Authors: Hartmann Jana , Wang Xue , Schuhmann Henning , Dziony Wanja , Caccamo Lorenzo , Ledig Johannes , Mohajerani Matin Sadat , Schimpke Tilman , Bähr Markus , Lilienkamp Gerhard , Daum Winfried , Seibt Michael , Straßburg Martin , Wehmann Hergo‐Heinrich , Waag Andreas
Published: August 2015

The three‐dimensional growth of GaN structures as a basis for the fabrication of 3D GaN core–shell LEDs has attracted substantial attention in the past few years. GaN nanorods or microrods with high aspect ratios can be grown by selective area epitaxy on a GaN buffer through a SiOx mask. It has been found earlier that silane substantially initiates vertical growth, with the exact underlying mechanisms being still unclear. Here, the influence of silane on the 3D GaN column growth was investigated by performing detailed growth experiments in combination with a thorough surface analysis in order to get insight into these mechanisms. The vertical growth rate is significantly enhanced by high silane fluxes, whereas the saturation of growth rate with the time is reduced. Thus, homogenous GaN columns with an aspect ratio of more than 35 could be achieved. A thin Si‐rich layer on the non‐polar m‐plane facets of the columns has been detected using a combination of transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy and Auger electron spectroscopy. This layer is suggested to be the reason for the increase in growth rate, modifying the effective collection range of the species along the sidewalls, and preventing the lateral growth.
Bayesian inference in two‐arm trials using relative belief ratios
Authors: Muthukumarana Saman , Evans Michael
Published: August 2015

Various methodologies proposed for some inference problems associated with two‐arm trails are known to suffer from difficulties, as documented in Senn (2001). We propose an alternative Bayesian approach to these problems that deals with these difficulties through providing an explicit measure of statistical evidence and the strength of this evidence. Bayesian methods are often criticized for their intrinsic subjectivity. We show how these concerns can be dealt with through assessing the bias induced by a prior model checking and checking for prior‐data conflict. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Engineering Gyroid‐Structured Functional Materials via Templates Discovered in Nature and in the Lab
Authors: Wu Liping , Zhang Wang , Zhang Di
Published: August 2015

In search of optimal structures for functional materials fabrication, the gyroid (G) structure has emerged as a promising subject of widespread research due to its distinct symmetry, 3D interconnected networks, and inherent chiral helices. In the past two decades, researchers have made great progress fabricating G‐structured functional materials (GSFMs) based on G templates discovered both in nature and in the lab. The GSFMs demonstrate extraordinary resonance when interacting with light and matter. The superior properties of GSFMs can be divided into two categories based on the dominant structural properties, namely, dramatic optical performances dominated by short‐range symmetry and well‐defined texture, and effective matter transport due to long‐range 3D interconnections and high integrity. In this review, G templates suitable for fabrication of GSFMs are summarized and classified. State‐of‐the‐art optical applications of GSFMs, including photonic bandgap materials, chiral devices, plasmonic materials, and matamaterials, are systematically discussed. Applications of GSFMs involved in effective electron transport and mass transport, including electronic devices, ultrafiltration, and catalysis, are highlighted. Existing challenges that may hinder the final application of GSFMS together with possible solutions are also presented.
No Vehicle Means No Aid—A Paradigm Change for the Humanitarian Logistics Business Model
Authors: Hirschinger Micha , Moser Roger , Schaefers Tobias , Hartmann Evi
Published: August 2015

The growing interest in humanitarian logistics is witnessed by an increasing focus of researchers and practitioners on that topic. Transportation in particular is emphasized as key to disaster relief. Despite its relevance, it suffers from a number of drawbacks, creating inefficiencies and limited effectiveness of aid. This article describes a paradigm change for fleet management in humanitarian organizations based on access‐based consumption. It further evaluates a case study among small‐scale producers in rural India, showing their acceptance for sharing vehicles. The newly created business opportunities will increase income and contribute to poverty alleviation. Taking part in the proposed vehicle‐sharing system can release them from ownership responsibilities and increase vehicle utilization, as well as improve vehicle availability, increasing the speed of aid from the perspective of humanitarian organizations. This article highlights the applicability of business models relying on the idea of access‐based consumption to not‐yet‐considered research fields, especially the transfer to rural areas of developing countries. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lepton mixing from the interplay of the alternating group A5 and CP
Authors: Di Iura Andrea , Hagedorn Claudia , Meloni Davide
Published: August 2015

Abstract

Assuming three generations of Majorana neutrinos, we study the different mixing patterns that arise from the non-trivial breaking of the flavor group A
5 and CP to the residual symmetries Z
3, Z
5 or Z
2 × Z
2 in the charged lepton and to Z
2 × CP in the neutrino sector. All patterns contain only one free parameter θ and thus mixing angles as well as the Dirac and the two Majorana phases are strongly correlated. We perform an analytical and a numerical study of all possible mixing patterns. It turns out that only four patterns can describe the experimentally measured values of the mixing angles for a particular choice of θ well. All of them predict trivial Majorana phases, while the Dirac phase δ is maximal for two patterns and trivial for the two remaining ones. If δ is maximal, also the atmospheric mixing angle is fixed to be maximal.
Portrait of the Master Genetic Counselor Clinician: A Qualitative Investigation of Expertise in Genetic Counseling
Authors: Miranda Cacy , Veach Patricia McCarthy , Martyr Meredith A. , LeRoy Bonnie S.
Published: August 2015

This study comprises an initial empirical description of personal and professional characteristics of master genetic counselors—those considered to be experts in the profession. Fifteen peer‐nominated genetic counselors, actively engaged in providing clinical services to patients, participated in semi‐structured telephone interviews exploring their personal qualities, inspirations, and perspectives on professional development of expertise. Analysis using modified Consensual Qualitative Research methods yielded 7 domains and 33 categories. Findings indicate master genetic counselors have a strong passion for and dynamic commitment to the profession. They also have insatiable curiosity and are life‐long learners who are reflective, self‐aware, confident, and recognize their limitations. They are authentic and genuine, and consider their personality to be their counseling style. They form collaborative and interactive relationships with patients based on trust, and they have nuanced attunement to the complexity and multiple levels of the counseling process. Master genetic counselors have deep empathy and are inspired by patients and colleagues, and they derive personal meaning from their work. They are affected emotionally by their work, but effectively manage the emotional impact. They view their professional development as ongoing, influenced by colleagues, patients, mentoring, multicultural considerations, and their own family of origin. They also believe professional development of expertise occurs through critical reflection upon the experiences one accrues. Additional findings and their relationship to theory and research, study strengths and limitations, implication for training and practice, and research recommendation are discussed.
Understanding the Physicochemical Characteristics and the Improved Enzymatic Saccharification of Corn Stover Pretreated with Aqueous and Gaseous Ammonia
Authors: Yoo Chang Geun , Kim Hoon , Lu Fachuang , Azarpira Ali , Pan Xuejun , Oh Kyeong Keun , Kim Jun Seok , Ralph John , Kim Tae Hyun
Published: August 2015

Physicochemical characteristics of corn stover pretreated by soaking in aqueous ammonia (SAA) and low-moisture anhydrous ammonia (LMAA) were compared and investigated. The glucan digestibility of the treated biomass reached 90 % (SAA) and 84 % (LMAA). The LMAA pretreatment enhanced the digestibility by cleaving cross-linkages between cell wall components, whereas the SAA pretreatment additionally improved the digestibility by efficiently removing a major portion of the lignin under mild reaction conditions without significant loss of carbohydrates. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and gel permeation chromatography (GPC) revealed the structural and chemical transformations of lignin during the pretreatments. Both pretreatments effectively cleaved ferulate cell wall cross-linking that is associated with the recalcitrance of grass lignocellulosics toward enzymatic saccharification. Extracted lignin from SAA pretreatment was extensively depolymerized but retained “native” character, as evidenced by the retention of β-ether linkages.
Predicting violent behavior: The role of violence exposure and future educational aspirations during adolescence
Authors: Stoddard Sarah A. , Heinze Justin E. , Choe Daniel Ewon , Zimmerman Marc A.
Published: August 2015

Few researchers have explored future educational aspirations as a promotive factor against exposure to community violence in relation to adolescents' violent behavior over time. The present study examined the direct and indirect effect of exposure to community violence prior to 9th grade on attitudes about violence and violent behavior in 12th grade, and violent behavior at age 22 via 9th grade future educational aspirations in a sample of urban African American youth (n = 681; 49% male). Multi‐group SEM was used to test the moderating effect of gender.

Exposure to violence was associated with lower future educational aspirations. For boys, attitudes about violence directly predicted violent behavior at age 22. For boys, future educational aspirations indirectly predicted less violent behavior at age 22. Implications of the findings and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Role of RSUME in inflammation and cancer
Authors: Antico Arciuch Valeria G. , Tedesco Lucas , Fuertes Mariana , Arzt Eduardo
Published: August 2015

RSUME (for RWD‐domain‐containing sumoylation enhancer), RWDD3 gene, was identified from a pituitary tumor cell with increased tumorigenic and angiogenic potential, and has higher expression in cerebellum, pituitary, heart, kidney, liver, pancreas, adrenal gland and prostate. RSUME is induced by cellular stress like hypoxia and heat shock, and is increased in pituitary tumors, in gliomas and in VHL tumors. Seven splicing forms have been described. Two of them correspond to non‐coding RNAs and the other five possess an RWD domain in the N‐terminus and differ in their C‐terminal end. RSUME enhances SUMO conjugation by interacting with the SUMO conjugase Ubc9, increases Ubc9 thioester formation and therefore favors sumoylation of specific targets. RSUME increases IκB levels and stabilizes HIF‐1α during hypoxia, leading to inhibition of NF‐κB and increased HIF‐1 transcriptional activity. RSUME inhibits pVHL function, thus suppressing HIF‐1 and 2α ubiquitination and degradation. Disruption of the RWD domain structure of RSUME indicated that this domain is critical for RSUME action. The findings point to an important role of RSUME in the regulation and stability of specific targets, which are key regulatory mediators in cancer and inflammation.
RNF4 negatively regulates NF‐κB signaling by down‐regulating TAB2
Authors: Tan Bo , Mu Rui , Chang Yan , Wang Yu-Bo , Wu Min , Tu Hai-Qing , Zhang Yu-Cheng , Guo Sai-Sai , Qin Xuan-He , Li Tao , Li Wei-Hua , Zhang Xue-Min , Li Ai-Ling , Li Hui-Yan
Published: August 2015

Most of NF‐κB (nuclear factor kappa B) signaling molecules have various types of post‐translational modifications. In this study, we focused on ubiquitination and designed a siRNA library including most ubiquitin‐binding domains. With this library, we identified several candidate regulators of canonical NF‐κB pathway, including RNF4. Overexpression of RNF4 impaired NF‐κB activation in a dose‐dependent manner, whereas RNF4 knockdown potentiated NF‐κB activation. We showed that RNF4 interacts with the TAK1–TAB2–TAB3 complex, but not TAB1. Further, we found that RNF4 specifically down‐regulated TAB2 through a lysosomal pathway, and knockdown of RNF4 impaired endogenous TAB2 degradation. Therefore, our findings will provide new insights into the negative regulation of NF‐κB signaling.
Overcoming differences: The catalytic mechanism of metallo‐β‐lactamases
Authors: Meini María-Rocío , Llarrull Leticia I. , Vila Alejandro J.
Published: August 2015

Metallo‐β‐lactamases are the latest resistance mechanism of pathogenic and opportunistic bacteria against carbapenems, considered as last resort drugs. The worldwide spread of genes coding for these enzymes, together with the lack of a clinically useful inhibitor, have raised a sign of alarm. Inhibitor design has been mostly impeded by the structural diversity of these enzymes. Here we provide a critical review of mechanistic studies of the three known subclasses of metallo‐β‐lactamases, analyzed at the light of structural and mutagenesis investigations. We propose that these enzymes present a modular structure in their active sites that can be dissected into two halves: one providing the attacking nucleophile, and the second one stabilizing a negatively charged reaction intermediate. These are common mechanistic elements in all metallo‐β‐lactamases. Nucleophile activation does not necessarily requires a Zn(II) ion, but a Zn(II) center is essential for stabilization of the anionic intermediate. Design of a common inhibitor could be therefore approached based in these convergent mechanistic features despite the structural differences.
Meta‐analysis of oral contraceptive use and risks of all‐cause and cause‐specific death
Authors: Zhong Guo‐Chao , Cheng Jia‐Hao , Xu Xiang‐Long , Wang Kang
Published: August 2015

Background

Whether ever use of oral contraceptives (OCs) is associated with mortality remains unclear.

Objectives

To evaluate the association between ever use of OCs and mortality.

Search strategy

On November 2, 2014, PubMed and Embase were searched for human studies, using the terms “contraceptive,” “contraceptives,” “death,” and “mortality.”

Selection criteria

Prospective cohort studies were included that provided risk estimates on OC use and mortality, and were reported in English or Chinese.

Data collection and analysis

A random‐effects model was used to pool data. Random‐effects meta‐regression was used to determine whether duration of OC use and time since last OC use were associated with mortality.

Main results

Nine studies were included. Ever use of OCs was not associated with mortality from all causes (hazard ratio [HR] 0.94; 95% CI 0.87–1.02) or breast cancer (HR 1.00; 95% CI 0.95–1.06). Neither the duration of OC use nor the time since last OC use was associated with all‐cause or breast cancer mortality. In an analysis of a small number of studies, ever users were at decreased risk of mortality from ovarian cancer (HR 0.58; 95% CI 0.35–0.94).

Conclusions

There is no significant association between ever use of OCs and mortality from all causes or breast cancer.
A randomized placebo‐controlled trial of preoperative tranexamic acid among women undergoing elective cesarean delivery
Authors: Maged Ahmed M. , Helal Omneya M. , Elsherbini Moutaz M. , Eid Marwa M. , Elkomy Rasha O. , Dahab Sherif , Elsissy Maha H.
Published: August 2015

Objective

To study the efficacy and safety of preoperative intravenous tranexamic acid to reduce blood loss during and after elective lower‐segment cesarean delivery.

Methods

A single‐blind, randomized placebo‐controlled study was undertaken of women undergoing elective lower‐segment cesarean delivery of a full‐term singleton pregnancy at a center in Cairo, Egypt, between November 2013 and November 2014. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) using computer‐generated random numbers to receive either 1 g tranexamic acid or 5% glucose 15 minutes before surgery. Preoperative and postoperative complete blood count, hematocrit values, and maternal weight were used to calculate the estimated blood loss (EBL) during cesarean, which was the primary outcome. Analyses included women who received their assigned treatment, whose surgery was 90 minutes or less, and who completed follow‐up.

Results

Analyses included 100 women in each group. Mean EBL was significantly higher in the placebo group (700.3 ± 143.9 mL) than in the tranexamic acid group (459.4 ± 75.4 mL; P < 0.001). Only six women, all in the placebo group, experienced an EBL of more than 1000 mL. There were no reports of thromboembolic events up to 4 weeks postoperatively.

Conclusion

Preoperative administration of tranexamic acid safely reduces blood loss during elective lower‐segment cesarean delivery.

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12615000312549.
Fostering Customer Ideation in Crowdsourcing Community: The Role of Peer-to-peer and Peer-to-firm Interactions
Authors: Chan Kimmy Wa , Li Stella Yiyan , Zhu John Jianjun
Published: August 2015

Firms increasingly engage customers in idea generation (or ideation) to sustain their competitive advantages. Drawing from social interaction literature, this study adopts a social network perspective to investigate empirically how the characteristics (i.e., direction, size, and strength) of customers’ online peer-to-peer (P2P) and peer-to-firm (P2F) interactions, moderated by customers’ past efforts to post ideas (i.e., past ideation participation), influence their likelihood of generating ideas in an idea crowdsourcing community. With four years of data from a popular online crowdsourcing site, this study demonstrates the significant impacts of P2P and P2F online interactions on customers’ likelihood of subsequent idea generation. In particular, a potential double-edged sword of past ideation participation emerges: A high level of past ideation participation strengthens (weakens) the impact of P2F (P2P) interactions on customers’ subsequent idea generation. These findings suggest implications for how firms can cultivate customers’ online social interactions with peers and firms and enhance their capabilities for capturing the wisdom of the crowd.
Managing contract manufacturer quality in the presence of performance ambiguity
Authors: Gray John V. , Handley Sean M.
Published: August 2015

Brand‐owing firms have been outsourcing the production of complete finished products to contract manufacturers (CMs) for some time. Increasingly, brand‐owning firms have been employing CMs to produce products for which performance ambiguity is high. Doing so poses challenges for the management of CM performance. As expected, we find that quality performance ambiguity has a significant negative relationship with CM conformance quality performance, as reported by the buyers (the brand‐owning firms). Drawing from and expanding the quality management (QM) literature, we assess the effectiveness of key constructs, derived primarily from the “supplier QM” meta‐construct, at mitigating the detrimental effect of ambiguity. Two constructs consistently moderate the ambiguity‐CM quality performance link. Heavily emphasizing quality at the time of CM selection moderates this relationship in the expected direction (i.e., it mitigates the challenges created by ambiguity). Surprisingly, we find that using one CM amplifies the negative relationship between ambiguity and conformance quality performance. One possible explanation is that employing only one CM aggravates existing opportunism concerns with regard to conformance quality performance under high levels of ambiguity.
Historical Inquiry and the Limitations of the Common Core State Standards
Authors: Wright Ginney P. , Endacott Jason L.
Published: August 2015

Students’ written argumentation, including historical argumentation, is an important aspect of standardized assessments under the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). This mixed methods study explores the differences in students’ written argumentation when inquiry methods of instruction are employed and a rubric designed for CCSS standardized assessment is used in evaluation. Results indicate that inquiry methods do not necessarily improve students’ argumentative writing when scored on CCSS criteria, though qualitative analysis reveals considerable differences in the demonstration of historical thinking by students in the treatment group. Many of these differences were captured with additional quantitative evaluation using a disciplinary specific instrument, though concerns remain regarding the ability to capture student knowledge through purely quantitative means. Implications for further assessment, research and instruction are discussed.
Participación de las mujeres en las prácticas socioeconómicas del proyecto de ecoturismo de la reserva de la biosfera Ría Celestún
Authors: Casais Molina Danahe , Cortés Campos Rocío Leticia , Martín Méndez Marlene , Pinkus Rendón Manuel , Pinkus Rendón Miguel
Published: August 2015

Las mujeres de Celestún están conscientes de su papel en la vida económica y social en su comunidad, particularmente como fuente de ingreso, pues su aporte económico representa un fuerte apoyo al mantenimiento familiar y en algunos casos son el principal sostén. Saben que si bien su actividad no es tan importante económicamente para la comunidad, como en el caso de los lancheros de la reserva de la biosfera o los pescadores, reconocen el papel significativo de su trabajo para el rubro turístico como servicio complementario, sobre todo de parte de las artesanas y las mujeres dedicadas a la hotelería. Este trabajo tiene por objetivo explorar la participación económica y social desde una perspectiva de género y con el enfoque de la economía ecológica sobre las prácticas económicas de las mujeres en el proyecto ecoturístico de esta localidad.
Coeducación: derecho humano
Authors: Delgado Ballesteros Gabriela
Published: August 2015

La escuela debe cambiar para cumplir con los derechos humanos; la coeducación es una posibilidad, porque exige igualdad de oportunidades entre mujeres y hombres. Su historia es como la evolución de la sociedad de exclusión, segregación, integración y coeducación. Su transcurso ha determinado crisis estructurales con rasgos disruptivos y nuevos elementos. El Plan Nacional de Desarrollo 2013-2018 presenta tres ejes transversales que deberían ser incluidos en todos los programas de la administración pública; uno de ellos es la incorporación de la perspectiva de género para la igualdad entre mujeres y hombres, lo cual logrará la coeducación. México vive el periodo de la integración. Para la coeducación requiere de la participación de la educación informal y no formal en el logro de la igualdad de oportunidades en la familia, escuela, medios de comunicación y trabajo.
Racismo y desarrollo: el proyecto turístico Uh Najil en Ek Balam, Yucatán
Authors: Iturriaga Eugenia , Rodríguez Yassir
Published: August 2015

A partir del análisis de un proyecto de desarrollo en una comunidad maya del estado de Yucatán y los discursos de sus promotores, este trabajo pretende mostrar cómo la visión de quienes buscan “ayudar” a las comunidades indígenas a alcanzar el desarrollo revela un racismo naturalizado. Sostenemos que la idea de desarrollo es un aura que enmascara una serie de relaciones de poder en los que se expresa, ejecuta y promueve un discurso en el cual el racismo se hace presente.
Visiones inglesas sobre la región maya en el siglo XVI
Authors: Valencia Suárez María Fernanda
Published: August 2015

A través de la presentación y análisis de los documentos que fueron publicados en Inglaterra en el siglo XVI, este artículo aborda la génesis del proceso de construcción de visiones inglesas sobre la región que hoy se identifica como maya. En un contexto marcado por crecientes tensiones con España,  la región maya —convenientemente cercana a los bastiones ingleses establecidos en el Caribe— fue vista por algunos en Inglaterra como una zona estratégica para mermar el poder español y promover las nacientes ambiciones imperiales inglesas.
La aplicación de la política migratoria restrictiva y controladora en Motul. El caso de libaneses y coreanos
Authors: Dávila Valdés Claudia
Published: August 2015

Este trabajo analiza la aplicación de las políticas migratorias federales restrictivas y controladoras de los años veinte y treinta del siglo XX en Motul, Yucatán, un municipio pequeño y alejado del centro del país. El objetivo es entender de qué manera las decisiones tomadas a nivel federal llegaron a los lugares más remotos y cuáles fueron las posibilidades reales para llevar a cabo, en dichas regiones, lo establecido por el gobierno federal. Se destaca, por ejemplo, que el impacto de esas políticas no fue homogéneo para todos los extranjeros pues entre libaneses y coreanos se pueden identificar algunas diferencias debido a sus propias características como grupos migratorios.
La configuración identitaria en Los territorios de migrantes internacionales
Authors: Reyes Tovar Miriam , Martínez Ruíz Diana Tamara
Published: August 2015

El presente artículo presenta una propuesta teórica y analítica acerca de la precisión escalar con respecto a las nociones de pertenencia, identificación y apropiación del territorio por parte de los sujetos, en los estudios de migración internacional. Más allá de pensar en un transnacionalismo, se enfatiza el proceso de territorialización que los migrantes y no migrantes realizan en lugares —tiempos precisos—, como una forma de crear un patrimonio identitario geográfico otorgado por el valor simbólico del territorio. Así es como sustento la importancia que posee el ámbito territorial a nivel socio-cultural y espacial en la migración.
El soldado desconocido (1922) de Salomón de la Selva; la Gran Guerra “vista y vivida” por un poeta centroamericano
Authors: Suárez Turriza Tatiana
Published: August 2015

En este trabajo se analiza la visión de la Gran Guerra que expresa El soldado desconocido (1922), poemario con el que Salomón de la Selva incorporó a la tradición literaria hispánica la experiencia de ese acontecimiento bélico de origen europeo. Dada la importancia que el autor confiere a la vivencia como inspiración poética, se presenta el acopio de noticias sobre su experiencia como soldado en las trincheras. Pero la lectura del poemario deslinda el aspecto testimonial de la elaboración poética: intenta demostrar que, paralelo a la narración cronológica de hechos de guerra, puede identificarse un “segundo argumento” que expone, desde una perspectiva mítica, la paulatina transformación que ocurre en la conciencia del sujeto lírico a medida que asume la personalidad del soldado.
THE AZTEC ATLATL IN THE BRITISH MUSEUM
Authors: Whittaker John C.
Published: August 2015

The British Museum's Aztec atlatl is one of their most famous Mesoamerican objects, yet it has not been studied as a weapon in light of current knowledge of spear-throwers, and the details necessary to do so have not been published. Close examination and experimental replication shows that although it is ornately decorated, it is a serviceable spear-thrower. While evidence of actual use of this specimen is ambiguous, we can at least accept the form as an example of working weapons of Contact period Mesoamerica. The actual effects and circumstances of atlatl use against the Spanish and others are difficult to judge from surviving accounts. The iconography of the decoration, as in other instances, associated this atlatl with elite warfare and deities of war and sacrifice.
RETURN TO MOXVIQUIL: FORM AND FUNCTION IN A SMALL MAYA CITY
Authors: Paris Elizabeth H. , Taladoire Eric , Lee Whiting Thomas A.
Published: August 2015

The excavations of Frans Blom and Clarence Weiant at the small hilltop site of Moxviquil in the early 1950s represent one of the pioneering archaeological projects in highland Chiapas. The results of their excavations, which were minimally published, provide important data on one of the largest Late Classic-Early Postclassic communities in the region. In this paper, we reconsider Moxviquil in light of recent scholarship on Maya urbanism, and present new interpretations of the site as a small city that fulfilled a diversified set of urban functions for residents both within the monumental zone itself, and in the surrounding hinterland areas. Consistent with its likely role as the administrative center of a small, independent highland polity, the monumental center of Moxviquil likely served political, economic, and ritual functions; was an important nucleus of residential settlement; and supported a wide range of household-based craft production and food preparation activities.
INVESTIGATING TEOTIHUACAN THROUGH TMP SURFACE COLLECTIONS AND OBSERVATIONS
Authors: Robertson Ian G.
Published: August 2015

In the 1960s, the Teotihuacan Mapping Project (TMP) focused an ambitious, multiyear survey program on the pre-Columbian urban center of Teotihuacan. In addition to creating a highly detailed map, the TMP made systematic records of surface remains and collected nearly one million artifacts from roughly 5,000 provenience tracts. Taken together, the spatial, descriptive, and artifactual data collected by the TMP still constitutes one of the most extensive and most detailed records in existence for any ancient city. This paper characterizes and provides an update on TMP surface observations, particularly as they exist in digital format. Several analytical case studies illustrate substantive ways in which these data have been used in the decades since the TMP survey to investigate the culture and history of ancient Teotihuacan. The utility of extensive surface survey data for investigating key urban organizational elements such as neighborhoods and social districts is briefly considered, along with the growing importance of the TMP collections and records as increasingly large parts of Teotihuacan are lost to urban sprawl and destructive agricultural practices.
INDIGENOUS COATS OF ARMS IN TÍTULOS PRIMORDIALES AND TECHIALOYAN CÓDICES: NAHUA CORPORATE HERALDRY IN THE LIENZOS DE CHIEPETLAN, GUERRERO, MEXICO
Authors: Gutiérrez Gerardo
Published: August 2015

The introduction of European heraldry in the Americas created a special class of material culture and iconography that circulated widely on coins, paper, architecture, and textiles. More interestingly, its appropriation and use by indigenous communities has not received proper archaeological attention. In this paper I analyze the adoption of royal Spanish heraldry by Nahua political systems (altepetl) during the Colonial period, from the sixteenth to the eighteenth centuries. My primary goal is to understand the context, meaning, and social practices for three late colonial banners from eastern Guerrero—the Lienzos de Chiepetlan IV, V, and VI. I argue that these three banners can be treated as moveable pieces of a complex heraldic ensemble to form the full ornamented coat of arms of the Spanish king. These three banners permit us to compare and contrast indigenous narratives of allegiance and resistance to Spanish imperialism.