bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of GFP‐Fusion p110α and p110β Isoforms of PI3K Signaling Pathway in Normal and Cancer Cells
Authors: Singh Paramjeet , Dar Mohd Saleem , Singh Gurjinder , Jamwal Gayatri , Sharma Parduman Raj , Ahmad Muzamil , Dar Mohd Jamal
Published: May 2016

Cancer therapeutics is a hot subject and PI3K class 1A isoforms (p110α and p110β) are pursued as major targets. Genetic analysis, biochemical approaches, and structural studies have demonstrated crucial roles for these isoforms in several physiological processes. p110α is critical for insulin signaling, whereas p110β is essential for the growth and differs from p110α in many ways. Here, we have generated GFP‐fusion clones of wildtype and mutant version of p110α and p110β and expressed them in HEK293 and cancer cells to examine their subcellular localization and their impact on downstream signaling. In HEK293 cells, p110β GFP‐fusion protein is translocated into the nucleus, whereas p110α‐GFP stays exclusively in the cytoplasm. This study demonstrates that p110α and p110β oncogenecity, kinase activity, and interaction with p85 regulatory subunit does not have any impact on their subcellular localization. PI3K pathway specific inhibitor, LY294002, abrogated PI3K signaling by reducing pAkt levels, however, the subcellular localization of p110α and p110β remained unchanged. Furthermore, we analyzed the expression of recombinant p110α and p110β in a panel of human cancer cells and observed remarkable differences in their expression levels. The differential expression of recombinant p110α and p110β was observed to be mainly regulated by the endogenous levels of pAkt. Unlike in HEK293, p110α showed nuclear localization in cancer cells in a similar fashion to p110β. Moreover, we observed the PI3K signaling activities in low pAkt expressing cells are mediated by PDK1 and S6K proteins. Finally, p110α and p110β were seen to play an essential role in promoting the cell cycle progression in MCF‐7 and HCT‐116 cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 2864–2874, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Early enteral nutrition improves intestinal immune barrier in a rat model of severe acute pancreatitis
Authors: Peng Lan , Wu Li‐Guo , Li Bo , Zhao Jun , Wen Li‐Ming
Published: May 2016

Background

The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of early enteral nutrition (EEN) in the intestinal immune barrier in severe acute pancreatitis (SAP), and to explore its potential mechanisms.

Methods

Sixty rats were randomly assigned to three groups: sham‐operated group (SO group, n = 20), SAP group receiving EEN (SAP + EEN group, n = 20), and SAP group receiving total parental nutrition (SAP + TPN group, n = 20). SAP was induced by infusion of sodium taurocholate. Rats were killed 5 days after nutritional support. The pathological damage of the intestine was determined using HE staining. The expression of MAdCAM‐1, CD4+, and CD8+ in Peyer's lymph nodes of the distal ilium was examined by immunohistochemistry. Serum levels of endotoxin and bacterial translocation were determined.

Results

The survival rate in the SAP + TPN (50%) and SAP + EEN (75%) groups was significantly lower than in the SO group (100%) (P < 0.05). The survival rate in the SAP + EEN group was significantly higher than in the SAP + TPN group (P < 0.05). The expression of MAdCAM‐1, CD4+ and CD8+ in the intestine was decreased in SAP rats. EEN significantly increased the expression of MAdCAM‐1, CD4+ and CD8+ compared with TPN, accompanied by a decrease in the serum levels of endotoxin and bacterial translocation.

Conclusions

Early enteral nutrition improves intestinal immune barrier, thus reducing bacterial and endotoxin translocation and improving the survival rate in SAP rats.
What Do We Mean by ‘Women's Crops'? Commercialisation, Gender and the Power to Name
Authors: Orr Alastair , Tsusaka Takuji , Kee‐Tui Sabine Homann , Msere Harry
Published: May 2016

We explore the relationship between commercialisation and gender for groundnuts in Eastern Province, Zambia, using a mixed methods approach. Women saw themselves as having greater control over groundnuts than other crops, and both sexes saw groundnuts as controlled by women. Propensity Score Matching showed that machine shelling and higher sales did not reduce women's perceived level of control over groundnuts. On the other hand, women welcomed greater male participation in machine shelling because it reduced the drudgery of shelling by hand, and were willing to trade some control in exchange for the male labour required to capture the full benefits from commercialisation. This suggests the need to re‐think the narrative of commercalisation and gender as a zero sum game in favour of a cooperative‐conflict model where bargaining between women and men can result in higher incomes for them both. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):GlycosAminoGlycan Aqueous Dispersions: Toward Electrically Conductive Bioactive Materials for Neural Interfaces
Authors: Mantione Daniele , del Agua Isabel , Schaafsma Wandert , Diez‐Garcia Javier , Castro Begona , Sardon Haritz , Mecerreyes David
Published: May 2016

There is an actual need of advanced materials for the emerging field of bioelectronics. One commonly used material is the conducting polymer poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) due to its general use in organic electronics. However, depending on the application in bioelectronics, PEDOT:PSS is not fully biocompatible due to the high acidity of the residual sulfonate protons of PSS. In this paper, the synthesis and biocompatibility properties of new poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):GlycosAminoGlycan (PEDOT:GAG) aqueous dispersions and its resulting films are shown. Thus, negatively charged GAGs as an alternative to PSS are presented. Three different commercially available GAGs, hyaluronic acid, heparin, and chondroitin sulfate are used. Indeed, PEDOT:GAGs dispersions are prepared through an oxidative chemical polymerization in water. Biocompatibility assays of the PEDOT:GAGs coatings are performed using SH‐SY5Y and CCF‐STTG1 cell lines and with ATP and Ca2+. Results show full biocompatibility and a pronounced anti‐inflammatory effect. This last characteristic becomes crucial if implanted in the body. These materials can be used for in vivo applications, as transistor or electrode for electrical recording and for all the possible situations when there is contact between electronic circuits and living tissues.

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High‐Tg Thiol‐Click Thermoset Networks via the Thiol‐Maleimide Michael Addition
Authors: Parker Shelbi , Reit Radu , Abitz Haley , Ellson Gregory , Yang Kejia , Lund Benjamin , Voit Walter E.
Published: May 2016

Thiol‐click reactions lead to polymeric materials with a wide range of interesting mechanical, electrical, and optical properties. However, this reaction mechanism typically results in bulk materials with a low glass transition temperature (Tg) due to rotational flexibility around the thioether linkages found in networks such as thiol‐ene, thiol‐epoxy, and thiol‐acrylate systems. This report explores the thiol‐maleimide reaction utilized for the first time as a solvent‐free reaction system to synthesize high‐Tg thermosetting networks. Through thermomechanical characterization via dynamic mechanical analysis, the homogeneity and Tgs of thiol‐maleimide networks are compared to similarly structured thiol‐ene and thiol‐epoxy networks. While preliminary data show more heterogeneous networks for thiol‐maleimide systems, bulk materials exhibit Tgs 80 °C higher than other thiol‐click systems explored herein. Finally, hollow tubes are synthesized using each thiol‐click reaction mechanism and employed in low‐ and high‐temperature environments, demonstrating the ability to withstand a compressive radial 100 N deformation at 100 °C wherein other thiol‐click systems fail mechanically.

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Computation of effective properties in elastic composites under imperfect contact with different inclusion shapes
Authors: Otero J. A. , Rodríguez‐Ramos R. , Monsivais G.
Published: May 2016

A fibrous elastic composite is considered with transversely isotropic constituents. Three types of fibers are studied: circular, square, and rhombic. Fibers are distributed with the same periodicity along the two perpendicular directions to the fiber orientation, that is, the periodic cell of the composite is square. The composite exhibits imperfect contact at the interface between the fiber and matrix. Effective properties of this composite are calculated by means of a semi‐analytic method, that is, the differential equations that described the local problems obtained by asymptotic homogenization method are solved using the finite element method. The finite element formulation can be applied to any type of element; particularly, three approaches are used: quadrilateral element of 4 nodes, quadrilateral element of 8 nodes, and quadrilateral element of 12 nodes. Numerical computations are implemented, and different comparisons are presented. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stability and accuracy of a pseudospectral scheme for the Wigner function equation
Authors: Thomann Andrea , Borzì Alfio
Published: May 2016

A pseudospectral scheme with centered time‐differencing for solving the Wigner function (WF) equation is investigated. Stability, second‐order accuracy in time, and spectral accuracy in space are proved for the WF equation with a potential in a periodic setting. In addition, normalization and energy conservation properties, and Ehrenfest's theorem are discussed. Numerical experiments are presented to validate the theoretical results. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 33: 62–87, 2017
Poly(styrene‐co‐butyl acrylate)/organo‐silica core–shell and ethylene vinyl acetate nanocomposites
Authors: Ahmed Abd El‐Shafey I. , Hussain Ahmed I. , El‐Masry Ahmed M. , Saleh Ahmed
Published: May 2016

Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and poly(styrene‐co‐butyl acrylate)/organo‐silica nanocomposites were prepared by melt blending in a twin screw bara‐bender. The structural, morphological, thermal, and mechanical properties of the prepared nanocomposites were investigated using Fourier Transform Infrared, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy, and thermal analysis (TGA and DSC). In addition, the tensile properties were identified. It was found that addition of 5% poly(styrene‐co‐butyl acrylate)/organo‐silica to the matrix of EVA has improved the tensile strength of the nanocomposite by 29%. The thermal stability of the nanocomposites has been improved and the residue (char % at 500°C) reaches its maximum value. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:E214–E220, 2017. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
New aspects of nonlinear elasticity of polymer gels and elastomers revealed by stretching experiments in various geometries
Authors: Urayama Kenji
Published: May 2016

This review focuses on the novel features of nonlinear elasticity for a range of gels and elastomers that were recently revealed through experiments using various types of strain such as uniaxial and biaxial stretching. Particular emphasis is placed on the magnitude of the cross‐effect of strains in different directions which can be characterized by unequal biaxial stretching. The studied materials include (1) markedly swollen hydrogels with a water content of 98%, (2) tetra‐arm poly(ethylene glycol) (Tetra‐PEG) gels with nearly uniform network structures without entanglement couplings of network strands, (3) slide‐ring gels with movable crosslinks along network strands and (4) elastomer foams with low densities of polymer solids. The magnitude of the cross‐effect of strains reflects the structural features of networks and crosslinks as well as bulk compressibility for each material. We also summarize recent results on strain‐driven swelling and the accompanying force reduction phenomena under various types of stretching. Remaining issues to be investigated are presented on the basis of existing results. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Role of in situ generated silica for rubber science and technology
Authors: Ohashi Takumi , Tohsan Atitaya , Ikeda Yuko
Published: May 2016

Filled rubbers have a long history in rubber technology. Filler morphology in the rubber matrix significantly influences the performance of filled rubber products. Therefore, we have to achieve a certain morphology of filler in the rubbery matrix in order to enjoy good reinforcement. However, it has not been sufficiently known what kind of morphology is necessary for the reinforcement, because preparations of adequate models for the characterization of filler morphology have been difficult. The in situ silica filling of the rubber matrix can be modeled for the preparations. In this paper, the characteristic features of in situ silica generated in diene rubbers are reviewed, citing recent reports. Two important models are presented. One is a homogeneous silica filling in situ, producing soft rubber nanocomposites. The other is the formation of an in situ silica filler network, creating stiff rubber nanocomposites. The controlled in situ silica filling is useful to evaluate the reinforcement effect of filler in a rubber matrix. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Copper (I) Oxide (Cu2O) based back contact for p‐i‐n CdTe solar cells
Authors: Türck Johannes , Nonnenmacher Hermann‐Josef , Connor Paula M. L. , Siol Sebastian , Siepchen Bastian , Heimfarth Jan Peter , Klein Andreas , Jaegermann Wolfram
Published: May 2016

In this paper a promising solution for the notorious problem of manufacturing a stable low ohmic back contact of a CdTe thin film superstrate solar cell is presented without using elemental copper. Instead we have used a Cu2O layer inserted between the CdTe absorber and metal contact (Au). In contrast to the barrier free band alignment gained by using the transitivity rules, XPS measurements show a barrier in the valence band of the Cu2O layers directly after deposition, which results in a low performing JV curve. The contact can be improved by a short thermal treatment resulting in efficiencies superior to copper based contacts for standard CdS/CdTe hetero junction solar cells prepared on commercial glass/FTO substrates. By replacing the CdS window layer with a CdS:O buffer layer efficiencies of >15% could be achieved. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation of interactions between scales of motion in the stable boundary layer
Authors: Vercauteren Nikki , Mahrt Larry , Klein Rupert
Published: May 2016

Interactions between motions on different time‐scales are investigated in the SnoHATS dataset of near‐surface stable boundary layer (SBL) turbulence. In an earlier study, the authors applied a data‐clustering methodology based on a bounded variation, finite element, vector autoregressive factor method (FEM‐BV‐VARX) to characterize the influence of non‐turbulent, submesoscale motions on the turbulence in the SnoHATS dataset. Regimes were identified, two of them weakly stable and two very stable turbulence states. In each identified regime, the variability of turbulent momentum fluxes is characterized here using an extended multiresolution flux decomposition methodology. The transport properties in each regime of near‐surface SBL turbulence are thereby assessed. The same methodology is used to investigate the scales of motion responsible for shear generation of turbulence.
Properties of starch–polyglutamic acid (PGA) graft copolymer prepared by microwave irradiation − Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and rheology studies
Authors: Xu Jingyuan , Solaiman Daniel , Ashby Richard D. , Garcia Rafael A. , Gordon Sherald H. , Harry‐O'kuru Rogers E.
Published: May 2016

The rheological properties of waxy starch‐γ‐polygutamic acid (PGA) graft copolymers were investigated. Grafting was confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy. The starch–PGA copolymers absorbed water and formed gels, which exhibited concentration‐dependent viscoelastic solid properties. Higher starch–PGA concentrations resulted in stronger viscoelastic properties. The analysis for moduli of different concentrations indicated that the starch–PGA graft copolymer gels were physical gels, meaning the cross‐links between the molecules were physical junctions. However, stress relaxation measurements showed that the starch–PGA graft copolymer gels had long relaxation times, which result from the presence of the chemical cross‐links that were evident in the FTIR spectra. The non‐linear steady shearing rheological properties studies indicated that starch–PGA gels exhibited shear thinning behavior, which can be well fitted with the power law constitutive equation. The function and behavior of the starch–PGA graft copolymer gels suggest that this kind of starch‐based biomaterial could be a potential candidate for applications in cosmetic gels, skin wound care materials, and agricultural products.
Corrosion Inhibition of Carbon Steel Pipelines by Some New Amphoteric and Di‐cationic Surfactants in Acidic Solution by Chemical and Electrochemical Methods
Authors: Hegazy M. A. , Azzam Eid M. S. , Kandil Nadia G. , Badawi A. M. , Sami R. M.
Published: May 2016

The inhibition effect of new synthesized amphoteric and di‐cationic surfactants, namely: 4‐((((1‐dodecylpyridin‐1‐ium bromide)‐4‐yl)methylene)amino)benzoate sodium (I) and 1‐dodecyl‐4‐(((1‐dodecylpyridin‐1‐ium‐4‐yl)imino)methyl)pyridin‐1‐ium bromide (II), respectively, on the corrosion of carbon steel in 1 M HCl have been investigated using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, Tafel polarization and weight loss measurements. The inhibition efficiencies obtained from all methods employed are in good agreement with each other. Tafel polarization studies showed that the surfactants are mixed type inhibitors. The adsorption of two compounds onto the surface of carbon steel in 1 M HCl obeys the Langmuir isotherm. Adsorption thermodynamic parameters reveal that the adsorption of inhibitors is a mixture of physical and chemical adsorption.
Managing the risk of misleading financial metrics in annual reports: A first step towards providing assurance over management’s discussion
Authors: Caplan Dennis , Dutta Saurav K.
Published: May 2016

Recent public policy initiatives seek greater transparency in financial reporting through an honest, balanced and thorough management discussion of company performance in the annual report. Management’s discussion invariably includes key performance indicators, such as financial ratios, relevant to external stakeholders. We model the impact of accounting estimates, assumptions, choices and errors on the risk of misleading financial ratios. This framework is illustrated through good and bad examples of financial reporting practices and by simulation of financial data of public companies. We provide a structured approach to inform policymakers, auditors and other stakeholders of the incremental financial reporting risk that accompanies current regulatory efforts.
Integrating mutation variant allele frequency into clinical practice in myeloid malignancies
Authors: Sallman David A. , Padron Eric
Published: May 2016

Hematologic myeloid neoplasms represent a heterogeneous group of disorders with defined clinical and pathologic characteristics. However, intensive investigation into the genetic abnormalities of these diseases has not only significantly advanced our understanding, but also revolutionized our diagnostic and prognostic capabilities. Moreover, more recent discovery on the impact of clonal burden has highlighted the critical and dynamic role of clonal evolution over time, which is integrally linked to a patient's clinical trajectory. This review will highlight the evidence supporting the incorporation of allelic burden of somatic mutations into clinical practice for the diagnosis and prognosis of myeloid neoplasms.
Neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease: Current evidence and future directions
Authors: Calsolaro Valeria , Edison Paul
Published: May 2016

Several attempts have been made to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD) using anti‐amyloid strategies with disappointing results. It is clear that the “amyloid cascade hypothesis” alone cannot fully explain the neuronal damage in AD, as evidenced both by autopsy and imaging studies. Neuroinflammation plays a significant role in neurodegenerative diseases, whereas the debate is ongoing about its precise role, whether it is protective or harmful. In this review, we focus on the potential mechanism of glial activation and how local and systemic factors influence disease progression. We focus on neuroinflammation in AD, especially in the earliest stages, a vicious cycle of glial priming, release of pro‐inflammatory factors, and neuronal damage. We review the evidence from imaging studies, regarding the temporal relationship between amyloid deposition and neuroinflammation, the influence of systemic inflammation on glial activation, both in acute and chronic stimulation and the relevance of inflammation as a diagnostic and therapeutic target.
Influence of paravertebral muscles training on brain plasticity and postural control in chronic low back pain
Authors: Massé-Alarie Hugo , Beaulieu Louis-David , Preuss Richard , Schneider Cyril
Published: May 2016

Background and purpose

Isometric activation (ISOM) of deep multifidi muscles (MF) can influence postural adjustments and primary motor cortex (M1) function in chronic low back pain (CLBP). In order to better understand how ISOM impacts on CLBP condition, the present study contrasted ISOM aftereffects on Ml function, MF postural activation and pain with another training, the global activation of paravertebral muscles (GLOB, hip extension). The main objective of this study was to compare the effects of ISOM and GLOB (3-week training each) on MF postural activation and Ml function in a CLBP population.

Methods

Twenty-four people with CLBP were randomly allocated to ISOM and GLOB groups for a 3- week daily practice. Pre/post-training after-effects were assessed by the onset of superficial MF (MF-S) activation during ballistic limb movements (bilateral shoulder flexion in standing; unilateral hip extension in prine lying), MF-S corticomotor control tested by transcranial magnetic stimulation of M1, and assessment of pain, kinesiophobia and disability by standardized questionnaires.

Results

Both ISOM and GLOB improved pain and disability. However, only ISOM influenced Ml function (decreased corticospinal excitability and increased intracortical inhibition), fastened MF-S postural activation and decreased kinesiophobia.

Conclusions

Changes of corticospinal excitability and of MF-S postural adjustments suggest that ISOM better influenced brain plasticity. Future studies should further test whether our novel findings relate to an influence of the exercises on the lumbopelvic control of different muscles and on cognitive function. Clinically, individual’s evaluation remains warranted before prescribing one or the other of these two conventional exercises for reducing pain.

Implications

This original study presents how motor control exercises can influence brain plasticity and postural control in chronic low back pain. This knowledge will impact on the decision of clinicians to prescribe specific exercises with a view of improving motor control in this musculoskeletal condition.
Crisis Decision-Making During Hurricane Sandy: An Analysis of Established and Emergent Disaster Response Behaviors in the New York Metro Area
Authors: Chandler Thomas , Abramson David M , Panigrahi Benita , Schlegelmilch Jeff , Frye Noelle
Published: May 2016

Objective

This collective case study examined how and why specific organizational decision-making processes transpired at 2 large suburban county health departments in lower New York State during their response to Hurricane Sandy in 2012. The study also examined the relationships that the agencies developed with other emerging and established organizations within their respective health systems.

Methods

In investigating these themes, the authors conducted in-depth, one-on-one interviews with 30 senior-level public health staff and first responders; reviewed documentation; and moderated 2 focus group discussions with 17 participants.

Results

Although a natural hazard such as a hurricane was not an unexpected event for these health departments, they nevertheless confronted a number of unforeseen challenges during the response phase: prolonged loss of power and fuel, limited situational awareness of the depth and breadth of the storm’s impact among disaster-exposed populations, and coordination problems with a number of organizations that emerged in response to the disaster.

Conclusions

Public health staff had few plans or protocols to guide them and often found themselves improvising and problem-solving with new organizations in the context of an overburdened health care system (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2016;10:436–442).
Impact on Primary Care Access Post-Disaster: A Case Study From the Rockaway Peninsula
Authors: Sood Rishi K. , Bocour Angelica , Kumar Supriya , Guclu Hasan , Potter Margaret , Shah Tanya B.
Published: May 2016

Objective

Assess Hurricane Sandy’s impact on primary care providers’ services in the Rockaways.

Methods

In-person surveys were conducted in 2014. A list of 46 health care sites in the area of interest was compiled and each site was called to offer participation in our survey. Respondents included physicians and practice administrators who remained familiar with Sandy-related operational challenges.

Results

Of the 40 sites that opted in, most had been in their current location for more than 10 years (73%) and were a small practice (1 or 2 physicians) before Hurricane Sandy (75%). All but 2 (95%) had to temporarily close or relocate. All sites experienced electrical problems that impacted landline, fax, and Internet. Less than one-quarter (n = 9) reported having a plan for continuity of services before Hurricane Sandy, and 43% reported having a plan poststorm. The majority (80%) did not report coordinating with other primary care stakeholders or receiving support from government agencies during the Sandy response.

Conclusions

Hurricane Sandy significantly disrupted access to primary care in the Rockaways. Severe impact to site operations and infrastructure forced many practices to relocate. Greater emergency response and recovery planning is needed, including with government agencies, to minimize disruptions of access to primary care during disaster recovery. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2016;10:492–495)
Analogies and differences between the stability of an isolated pancake vortex and a columnar vortex in stratified fluid
Authors: Yim Eunok , Billant Paul
Published: May 2016

In order to understand the dynamics of pancake shaped vortices in stably stratified fluids, we perform a linear stability analysis of an axisymmetric vortex with Gaussian angular velocity in both the radial and axial directions with an aspect ratio of ${\it\alpha}$. The results are compared to those for a columnar vortex (${\it\alpha}=\infty$) in order to identify the instabilities. Centrifugal instability occurs when $\mathscr{R}>c(m)$ where $\mathscr{R}=ReF_{h}^{2}$ is the buoyancy Reynolds number, $F_{h}$ the Froude number, $Re$ the Reynolds number and $c(m)$ a constant which differs for the three unstable azimuthal wavenumbers $m=0,1,2$. The maximum growth rate depends mostly on $\mathscr{R}$ and is almost independent of the aspect ratio ${\it\alpha}$. For sufficiently large buoyancy Reynolds number, the axisymmetric mode is the most unstable centrifugal mode whereas for moderate $\mathscr{R}$, the mode $m=1$ is the most unstable. Shear instability for $m=2$ develops only when $F_{h}\leqslant 0.5{\it\alpha}$. By considering the characteristics of shear instability for a columnar vortex with the same parameters, this condition is shown to be such that the vortex is taller than the minimum wavelength of shear instability in the columnar case. For larger Froude number $F_{h}\geqslant 1.5{\it\alpha}$, the isopycnals overturn and gravitational instability can operate. Just below this threshold, the azimuthal wavenumbers $m=1,2,3$ are unstable to baroclinic instability. A simple model shows that baroclinic instability develops only above a critical vertical Froude number $F_{h}/{\it\alpha}$ because of confinement effects.
Brilliant Minds: A Snapshot of Successful Indigenous Australian Doctoral Students
Authors: Trudgett Michelle , Page Susan , Harrison Neil
Published: May 2016

Drawing on demographic data collected from interviews with 50 Indigenous Australians with a doctoral qualification and 33 of their supervisors, this paper provides the first detailed picture of Indigenous doctoral education in Australia, with the focus on study modes, age of candidates, completion times and employment. It also analyses data produced through interviews with supervisors including age, employment levels and academic background. The study confronts a number of common perceptions in the higher education sector, to find that many Indigenous Australians are awarded their doctoral qualification in the middle stages of their career. This particular cohort is more likely to be studying in the arts and humanities, employed in higher education and enrolled on a full-time basis. This Australian Research Council (ARC) funded research provides new and important data to inform government policy, and to allow universities to implement strategies and recommendations arising from the Behrendt Report of 2012.
Ribbed bedforms on palaeo-ice stream beds resemble regular patterns of basal shear stress (‘traction ribs’) inferred from modern ice streams
Authors: STOKES CHRIS R. , MARGOLD MARTIN , CREYTS TIMOTHY T.
Published: May 2016

Rapidly-flowing ice streams are an important mechanism through which ice sheets lose mass, and much work has been focussed on elucidating the processes that increase or decrease their velocity. Recent work using standard inverse methods has inferred previously-unrecognised regular patterns of high basal shear stress (‘sticky spots’ >200 kPa) beneath a number of ice streams in Antarctica and Greenland, termed ‘traction ribs’. They appear at a scale intermediate between smaller ribbed moraines and much larger mega-ribs observed on palaeo-ice sheet beds, but it is unclear whether they have a topographic expression at the bed. Here, we report observations of rib-like bedforms from DEMs along palaeo-ice stream beds in western Canada that resemble both the pattern and dimensions of traction ribs. Their identification suggests that traction ribs may have a topographic expression that lies between, and partly overlaps with, ribbed moraines and much larger mega-ribs. These intermediate-sized bedforms support the notion of a ribbed bedform continuum. Their formation remains conjectural, but our observations from palaeo-ice streams, coupled with those from modern ice masses, suggest they are related to wave-like instabilities occurring in the coupled flow of ice and till and modulated by subglacial meltwater drainage. Their form and pattern may also involve glaciotectonism of subglacial sediments.
EXPANSIONS OF THE ORDERED ADDITIVE GROUP OF REAL NUMBERS BY TWO DISCRETE SUBGROUPS
Authors: HIERONYMI PHILIPP
Published: May 2016

The theory of (ℝ, <, +, ℤ, ℤa) is decidable if a is quadratic. If a is the golden ratio, (ℝ, <, +, ℤ, ℤa) defines multiplication by a. The results are established by using the Ostrowski numeration system based on the continued fraction expansion of a to define the above structures in monadic second order logic of one successor. The converse that (ℝ, <, +, ℤ, ℤa) defines monadic second order logic of one successor, will also be established.
IlluminatingBotteghe Oscure’s British network
Authors: Sullam Sara
Published: May 2016

Working at the intersection between literary history and periodical studies, this article investigates the role played by the literary journalBotteghe Oscure(Rome, 1948–1960) in processes of Anglo-Italian literary transfer. The article charts the journal’s British network, analysing quantitatively the presence of both established and new writers. Further, it focuses onBotteghe Oscure’s publishing and distribution policy in the United Kingdom, drawing on its founder Marguerite Caetani’s correspondence in order to interrogate the location of the journal within the Italian and the English literary systems, and thus illuminate the journal’s role as a site of literary production as it was shaped in both Italy and Britain.
Radio emission physics in the Crab pulsar
Authors: Eilek Jean A. , Hankins Timothy H.
Published: May 2016

We review our high-time-resolution radio observations of the Crab pulsar and compare our data to a variety of models for the emission physics. The Main Pulse and the Low Frequency Interpulse come from regions somewhere in the high-altitude emission zones (caustics) that also produce pulsed X-ray and${\it\gamma}$-ray emission. Although no emission model can fully explain these two components, the most likely models suggest they arise from a combination of beam-driven instabilities, coherent charge bunching and strong electromagnetic turbulence. Because the radio power fluctuates on a wide range of time scales, we know the emission zones are patchy and dynamic. It is tempting to invoke unsteady pair creation in high-altitude gaps as the source of the variability, but current pair cascade models cannot explain the densities required by any of the likely models. It is harder to account for the mysterious High Frequency Interpulse. We understand neither its origin within the magnetosphere nor the striking emission bands in its dynamic spectrum. The most promising models are based on analogies with solar zebra bands, but they require unusual plasma structures which are not part of our standard picture of the magnetosphere. We argue that radio observations can reveal much about the upper magnetosphere, but work is required before the models can address all of the data.
Application of particle image velocimetry to dusty plasma systems
Authors: Williams Jeremiah D.
Published: May 2016

Particle image velocimetry is a fluid measurement technique that has been used for more than 20 years to characterize the particle transport and thermal state of dusty plasma systems. This manuscript provides an overview of this diagnostic technique, highlighting the strengths and limitations that are associated with its use. Additionally, the variations of this technique that have been applied in the study of dusty plasma systems will be discussed, along with a small selection of measurements that can be made with the technique. Potential future directions for this diagnostic tool within the dusty plasma community will also be discussed.
Comparison of participants and non-participants in patient-reported outcome surveys: the case of Assessment of Patterns of Patient-Reported Outcomes in Adults with Congenital Heart disease – International Study
Authors: Berghammer Malin C. , Mattsson Eva , Johansson Bengt , Moons Philip , Dellborg Mikael
Published: May 2016

Background

The last decade has seen a vast increase in the use of patient-reported outcomes. As patient-reported outcomes are used in order to capture patients’ perspectives of their health and illness, it is a prerequisite for accurate patient-reported outcome evaluations to use representative samples. In order to evaluate representativeness, the present study focussed on the comparison between participants and non-participants in the Swedish branch of the international study APPROACH-IS (Assessment of Patterns of Patient-Reported Outcomes in Adults with Congenital Heart disease – International Study), regarding demographic, clinical, and health status characteristics.

Methods

Eligible patients for APPROACH-IS were identified and selected from SWEDCON, the Swedish registry for congenital heart disease (CHD). Overall, 912 eligible patients were identified, of whom 471 participated, 398 did not participate, and 43 were either unreachable or declined to participate in APPROACH-IS. The participants and non-participants were compared in terms of statistical significance and effect sizes.

Results

Significant differences were observed between participants and non-participants for sex, age, primary diagnosis, number of cardiac operations, and fatigue; however, the effect sizes were in general small, except for the difference in primary diagnosis. No differences between the two groups were found in number of catheterisations, implanted device, the distribution of NYHA functional class, or health status and symptoms.

Conclusions

This study shows that participants and non-participants are relatively comparable groups, which confirms the representativeness of the participants. The Swedish data from APPROACH-IS can therefore be reliably generalised to the population of adults with CHD in Sweden.
FISCAL POLICY AND THE REAL EXCHANGE RATE
Authors: Chatterjee Santanu , Mursagulov Azer
Published: May 2016

This paper examines the mechanisms through which government spending affects the dynamics of the real exchange rate. Using a two-sector dependent open economy model with intersectoral mobility costs for private capital, we show that public investment generates (i) a nonmonotonic U-shaped adjustment path for the real exchange rate with sharp intertemporal trade-offs and (ii) a crowding-in of private consumption, consistent with stylized facts. The effects of public consumption, however, are in sharp contrast to those of public investment. The effect of government spending on the real exchange rate depends critically on (i) the sectoral composition of public spending, (ii) the underlying financing policy, (iii) the sectoral intensity of private capital in production, (iv) the relative sectoral productivity of public infrastructure, (v) the elasticity of substitution in production, and (vi) intersectoral mobility costs for capital. In deriving these results, we identify conditions under which the predictions of the neoclassical open economy model can be reconciled with empirical regularities. Our results underscore the importance of decoupling the effects of government investment from those of government consumption in understanding the relationship between fiscal policy and the real exchange rate.
Coactivation: The portmanteau constructions in bilingual grammar
Authors: BHATT RAKESH M.
Published: May 2016

Goldrick, Putnam and Schwarz (Goldrick, Putnam & Schwarz) have offered an account that must delight all linguists who have spent an inordinate amount of their professional time working on understanding the grammar of bilingual language use – just how, and why, do bilinguals produce the utterances that they do. The computational approach Goldrick et al. propose blends the grammatical principles (of the optimality kind) with general processing constraints to yield patterns of code-mixing that may be sparse – the emergence of doubled elements in bilinguals’ utterances – but certainly needing an explanation. Their Gradient Symbolic Computation model is, in fact, the first robust account of the presence of doubled elements, i.e., an element of the utterance is doubled, appearing in both languages within a single utterance (see 1 below). Their account, however, does force them to make an important, but vulnerable, theoretical assumption: that grammatical principles can refer to language membership. It recalls, albeit obliquely, Belazi, Rubin and Toribio's much discussed ‘Language’ feature needed to mobilize their Functional Head Constraint (see Bhatt, 1997, for an empirical and theoretical critique of the Functional Head Constraint).
OPERATOR SYSTEM NUCLEARITY VIA -ENVELOPES
Authors: GUPTA VED PRAKASH , LUTHRA PREETI
Published: May 2016

We prove that an operator system is (min, ess)-nuclear if its $C^{\ast }$-envelope is nuclear. This allows us to deduce that an operator system associated to a generating set of a countable discrete group by Farenick et al. [‘Operator systems from discrete groups’, Comm. Math. Phys.329(1) (2014), 207–238] is (min, ess)-nuclear if and only if the group is amenable. We also make a detailed comparison between ess and other operator system tensor products and show that an operator system associated to a minimal generating set of a finitely generated discrete group (respectively, a finite graph) is (min, max)-nuclear if and only if the group is of order less than or equal to three (respectively, every component of the graph is complete).
Reconfigurable circularly polarized capacitive coupled microstrip antenna
Authors: Singh Dinesh Kumar , Kanaujia Binod Kumar , Dwari Santanu , Pandey Ganga Prasad , Kumar Sandeep
Published: May 2016

The design and measurement of reconfigurable circularly polarized capacitive fed microstrip antenna are presented. Small isosceles right angle triangular sections are removed from diagonally opposite corners for the generation of circular polarization (CP) of axial ratio bandwidth of 11.1%. Horizontal slits of different lengths are inserted at the edges of the truncated patch to provide the dual-band CP and by switching PIN diodes across the slits ON and OFF, reconfigurable circularly polarized antenna is realized. The antenna shows dual-band behavior with reconfigurable CP. In order to enhance the operation bandwidth of the antenna, an inclined slot was embedded on the patch along with PIN diodes across the horizontal slits. This proposed antenna gave an impedance bandwidth of 66.61% (ON state) ranging from 4.42 to 8.80 GHz and 68.42% (OFF state) ranging from 4.12 to 8.91 GHz and exhibits dual-frequency CP with PIN diode in OFF state and single-frequency CP with PIN diode in ON state with good axial ratio bandwidth. The axial ratio bandwidth of 4.42, 2.35, and 2.72% is obtained from the antenna. The antenna has a similar radiation pattern in all the three different CP bands and almost constant gain within the bands of CP operation.
System characteristics and management practices for small ruminant production in “Climate Smart Villages” of Kenya
Authors: Ojango J.M.K. , Audho J. , Oyieng E. , Recha J. , Okeyo A.M. , Kinyangi J. , Muigai A.W.T.
Published: May 2016

The CGIAR research programme on Climate Change Agriculture and Food Security, in collaboration with several partners is testing a portfolio of interventions to address the threat of changing climatic conditions for smallholder farming communities living beside river flood plains, grouped into “Climate Smart Villages” (CSVs). We present characteristics of farms in CSV in relation to small ruminant (SR) production and the scenario for a breeding and improvement programme. Information was collated using participatory systems research methods from 140 households in seven CSVs in Nyando basin, Kenya. Although most households were headed by men, there were a higher proportion of adult women within the communities, and literacy levels were moderate. A total of 58 percent of the population owned <1 ha of land for growing crops and rearing on average 6.96 ± 3.35 Tropical Livestock Units comprising different species of animals. Women headed households owned more sheep which were mainly crosses of unspecified local breeds, than Goats which were mainly the Small East African breed-type. Mating among the SR was random, with no control of inbreeding as flocks mixed in grazing fields and at water points. Farmers desired large and resilient animals for better market prices; however, growth rates were slow. The SR flocks were dynamic with 31 percent of the animals moving in and out of flocks in a year. A community breeding programme optimally using available resources and incorporating gender integrated innovative technologies could be implemented for the CSV, alongside strong capacity development on animal husbandry, health and marketing of products.
Nucleation and spreading of a heterochromatic domain in fission yeast
Authors: Obersriebnig Michaela J. , Pallesen Emil M. H. , Sneppen Kim , Trusina Ala , Thon Geneviève
Published: May 2016

Outstanding questions in the chromatin field bear on how large heterochromatin domains are formed in space and time. Positive feedback, where histone-modifying enzymes are attracted to chromosomal regions displaying the modification they catalyse, is believed to drive the formation of these domains; however, few quantitative studies are available to assess this hypothesis. Here we quantified the de novo establishment of a naturally occurring ∼20-kb heterochromatin domain in fission yeast through single-cell analyses, measuring the kinetics of heterochromatin nucleation in a region targeted by RNAi and its subsequent expansion. We found that nucleation of heterochromatin is stochastic and can take from one to ten cell generations. Further silencing of the full region takes another one to ten generations. Quantitative modelling of the observed kinetics emphasizes the importance of local feedback, where a nucleosome-bound enzyme modifies adjacent nucleosomes, combined with a feedback where recruited enzymes can act at a distance.
Correction: Corrigendum: Methylation of ribosomal RNA by NSUN5 is a conserved mechanism modulating organismal lifespan
Authors: Schosserer Markus , Minois Nadege , Angerer Tina B. , Amring Manuela , Dellago Hanna , Harreither Eva , Calle-Perez Alfonso , Pircher Andreas , Peter Gerstl Matthias , Pfeifenberger Sigrid , Brandl Clemens , Sonntagbauer Markus , Kriegner Albert , Linder Angela , Weinhäusel Andreas , Mohr Thomas , Steiger Matthias , Mattanovich Diethard , Rinnerthaler Mark , Karl Thomas , Sharma Sunny , Entian Karl-Dieter , Kos Martin , Breitenbach Michael , Wilson Iain B. H. , Polacek Norbert , Grillari-Voglauer Regina , Breitenbach-Koller Lore , Grillari Johannes
Published: May 2016

Nature Communications 6: Article number: 6158 (2015); Published: 30 January 2015; Updated: 11 May 2016 This Article contains an error in the numbering of the C. elegans 25S rRNA site methylated by nsun-5, which was incorrectly given as C3381. The correct methylation site is C2381. The correct version of Fig.
Assessment of clinical workload for general and specialty genetic counsellors at an academic medical center: a tool for evaluating genetic counselling practices
Authors: Heald Brandie , Rybicki Lisa , Clements Diane , Marquard Jessica , Mester Jessica , Noss Ryan , Nardini Monica , Polk Jill , Psensky Brittany , Rigelsky Christina , Schreiber Allison , Shealy Amy , Smith Marissa , Eng Charis
Published: May 2016

With genomics influencing clinical decisions, genetics professionals are exponentially called upon as part of multidisciplinary care. Increasing demand for genetic counselling, a limited workforce, necessitates practices improve efficiency. We hypothesised that distinct differences in clinical workload exist between various disciplines of genetic counselling, complicating practice standardisation and patient volume expectations. We thus sought to objectively define and assess workload among various specialties of genetic counselling. Twelve genetic counsellors (GCs), representing 9.3 clinical FTE, in general or specialty (cancer, cardiovascular or prenatal) services at an academic health system developed a data collection tool for assessing time and complexity. Over a 6-week period, the data were recorded for 583 patient visits (136 general and 447 specialty) and analysed comparing general versus specialty GCs. Variables were compared with hierarchical linear models for ordinal or continuous data and hierarchical logistic models for binary data. General GCs completed more pre- and post-visit activities (P=0.011) and spent more time (P=0.009) per case. General GCs reported greater case discussion with other providers (P<0.001), literature review (P=0.026), exploring testing options (P=0.041), electronic medical record review (P=0.040), insurance preauthorization (P=0.05) and fielding patient inquiries (P=0.003). Lesser redundancy in referral indication was observed by general GCs. GCs in general practice carry a higher pre- and post-visit workload compared with GCs in specialty practices. General GCs may require lower patient volumes than specialty GCs to allow time for additional pre- and post-visit activities. Non-clinical activities should be transferred to support staff.