bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Landscape analysis for multi-hazard prevention in Orco and Soana valleys, Northwest Italy
Authors: Turconi L. , Tropeano D. , Savio G. , De S. K. , Mason P. J.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. The study area (600 km2), consisting of Orco and Soana valleys in the Western Italian Alps, experienced different types of natural hazards, typical of the whole Alpine environment. Some of the authors have been requested to draw a civil protection plan for such mountainous regions. This offered the special opportunity (1) to draw a lot of unpublished historical data, dating back several centuries mostly concerning natural hazard processes and related damages, (2) to develop original detailed geo-morphological studies in a region still poorly known, (3) to prepare detailed thematic maps illustrating landscape components related to natural conditions and hazards, (4) to thoroughly check present-day situations in the area compared to the effects of past events and (5) to find adequate natural hazard scenarios for all sites exposed to risk. The method of work has been essentially to compare archival findings with field evidence in order to assess natural hazard processes, their occurrence and magnitude, and to arrange all such elements in a database for GIS-supported thematic maps. Several types of natural hazards, such as landslides, rockfalls, debris flows, stream floods and snow avalanches cause huge damage to lives and properties (housings, roads, tourist sites). We aim to obtain newly acquired knowledge in this large, still poorly understood area as well as develop easy-to-interpret products such as natural risk maps.
Detailed quantification of delta subsidence, compaction and interaction with man-made structures: the case of the NCA airport, France
Authors: Cavalié O. , Sladen A. , Kelner M.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. River deltas are dynamic coastal systems and their evolutions are closely monitored as it often concentrates vital natural resources for the surrounding areas. Many deltas worldwide experience subsidence due to geological processes (sediment loading and compaction) or human activities (groundwater or hydrocarbon extraction, land reclamation). This causes shoreline erosion or wetland loss which represent serious issues for the population. In this study we investigate the dynamic of the Var delta (France) where reclaimed lands over sea have been built to host the Nice côte d'Azur airport (NCA). Actually, the stability of this infrastructure is a permanent concern since, in 1979, a newly built extension of the runway platform collapsed in the sea, causing important damages. The project of land extension stopped, but the present airport platform is still located on reclaimed land. Factors that can trigger such catastrophic landslide are thought to be linked to the delta activity and the artificial airport platform load. We used, therefore, Envisat InSAR data to measure accurately the ground deformation of the area that includes the Var delta and NCA airport. Combining data from ascending and descending orbits, we estimated the east–west and vertical components of the deformation and obtained very accurate displacement rate (with a 1σ error of 0.25 mm yr−1). We found that nearly all the deformation is vertical and impacts the whole Var delta. The Var valley subsides at a very low rate (0.5–1 mm yr−1) but downstream the subsidence rate increases and a clear jump is observed at the transition with the reclaimed lands (1–2 mm yr−1). On average, the reclaimed lands subside at 3 mm yr−1. Since the subsidence rate increases in correlation with the sediment thickness, we interpret it as the compaction of the delta quaternary sedimentary wedge. In addition, three areas subside faster (between 5 and 10 mm yr−1), with one calling for more attention as it is the largest and overlooks the steep Var canyon. The progressive increase of subsidence rates toward the sea also suggests that the underwater parts of the margins could subside at rates well above 10 mm yr−1.
Chronology and impact of the 2011 Puyehue-Cordón Caulle eruption, Chile
Authors: Elissondo M. , Baumann V. , Bonadonna C. , Pistolesi M. , Cioni R. , Bertagnini A. , Biass S. , Herrero J. C. , Gonzalez R.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. We present a detailed chronological reconstruction of the 2011 eruption of Puyehue-Cordón Caulle volcano (Chile) based on information derived from newspapers, scientific reports and satellite images. Chronology of associated volcanic processes and their local and regional effects (i.e. precursory activity, tephra fallout, lahars, pyroclastic density currents, lava flows) are also presented. The eruption had a severe impact on the ecosystem and on various economic sectors, including aviation, tourism, agriculture, and fishing industry. Urban areas and critical infrastructures, such as airports, hospitals and roads, were also impacted. The concentration of PM10 (Particulate Matter ≤ 10 μm) was measured during and after the eruption, showing that maximum safety threshold levels of daily and annual exposures were surpassed in several occasions. Probabilistic analysis of atmospheric and eruptive conditions have shown that the main direction of dispersal is directly towards east of the volcano and that the climactic phase of the eruption, dispersed toward south-east, has a probability of occurrence within 1 %. The management of the crisis, including evacuation of people, is discussed, as well as the comparison with the impact associated with other recent eruptions located in similar areas and having similar characteristics (i.e. Quizapu, Hudson, and Chaitén volcanoes). This comparison shows that the regions downwind and very close to the erupting volcanoes suffered very similar problems, without a clear relation with the intensity of the eruption (e.g. health problems, damage to vegetation, death of animals, roof collapse, air traffic disruptions, road closure, lahars and flooding). This suggests that a detailed collection of impact data can be largely beneficial for the development of plans for the management of an eruptive crisis and the mitigation of associated risk of the Andean region.
On the thermal gradient in the Earth's deep interior
Authors: Tirone M.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Temperature variations in large portions of the mantle are mainly controlled by the reversible and irreversible transformation of mechanical energy related to pressure and viscous forces into internal energy along with diffusion of heat and chemical reactions. The simplest approach to determine the temperature gradient is to assume that the dynamic process involved is adiabatic and reversible, which means that entropy remains constant in the system. However heat conduction and viscous dissipation during dynamic processes effectively create entropy. The adiabatic and non-adiabatic temperature variation under the influence of a constant or varying gravitational field are discussed in this study from the perspective of the Joule–Thomson (JT) throttling system in relation to the transport equation for change of entropy. The JT model describes a dynamic irreversible process in which entropy in the system increases but enthalpy remains constant (at least in an equipotential gravitational field). A comparison is made between the thermal gradient from the JT model and the thermal gradient from two models, a mantle convection and a plume geodynamic model coupled with thermodynamics including a complete description of the entropy variation. The results show that the difference is relatively small and suggests that thermal structure of the asthenospheric mantle can be well approximated by an isenthalpic model when the formulation includes the effect of the gravitational field. For non-dynamic or parameterized mantle dynamic studies the JT formulation provides a better description of the thermal gradient than the classic isentropic formulation.
Evolution of Ossoue Glacier (French Pyrenees) since the end of the Little Ice Age
Authors: Marti R. , Gascoin S. , Houet T. , Ribière O. , Laffly D. , Condom T. , Monnier S. , Schmutz M. , Camerlynck C. , Tihay J. P. , Soubeyroux J. M. , René P.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Little is known about the fluctuations of the Pyrenean glaciers. In this study, we reconstructed the evolution of Ossoue Glacier (42°46' N, 0.45 km2), which is located in the central Pyrenees, from the Little Ice Age (LIA) onwards. To do so, length, area, thickness, and mass changes in the glacier were generated from historical data sets, topographical surveys, glaciological measurements (2001–2013), a ground penetrating radar (GPR) survey (2006), and stereoscopic satellite images (2013). The glacier has receded considerably since the end of the LIA, losing 40 % of its length and 60 % of its area. Three periods of marked ice depletion were identified: 1850–1890, 1928–1950, and 1983–2013, as well as two short periods of stabilization: 1890–1894, 1905–1913, and a longer period of slight growth: 1950–1983; these agree with other Pyrenean glacier reconstructions (Maladeta, Coronas, Taillon glaciers). Pyrenean and Alpine glaciers exhibit similar multidecadal variations during the 20th century, with a stable period detected at the end of the 1970s and periods of ice depletion during the 1940s and since the 1980s. Ossoue Glacier fluctuations generally concur with climatic data (air temperature, precipitation, North Atlantic Oscillation, Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation). Geodetic mass balance over 1983–2013 was −1.04 ± 0.06 w.e.a−1 (−31.3 ± 1.9 m w.e.), whereas glaciological mass balance was −1.45 ± 0.85 m w.e. a−1 (−17.3 ± 2.9 m w.e.) over 2001–2013, resulting in a doubling of the ablation rate in the last decade. In 2013 the maximum ice thickness was 59 ± 10.3 m. Assuming that the current ablation rate remains constant, Ossoue Glacier will disappear midway through the 21st century.
The Impact of Personal Characteristics and Employees Perception towards the Objectivity of Performance Appraisal
Authors: Abu Shiekhah Nader , Sarhan Nael Mosa , Abbad Muneer , Istaiteyah Rasha
Published: September 2015

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of personal characteristics on employees' perception towards the objectivity of performance appraisal at Jordanian ministries. A quantitative approach was established by collecting 283 questionnaires. Descriptive analysis, T-Test and ANOVA technics were used. The results of this study found out that there is an impact of the personal characteristics on the employees' perception towards the objectivity of performance appraisal among Jordanian ministries. Moreover, the results proposed that the employees believed that the performance appraisal process is not objective. The study provides a number of recommendations that help governmental managers to deal with the employees' performance appraisal errors to be more objective in the future.
De duurzaamheid van burgerinitiatieven
Authors: Igalla Malika , van Meerkerk Ingmar
Published: September 2015

The sustainability of citizens’ initiatives. An empirical exploration

Citizens’ initiatives are the focus of public attention as part of the popular ‘do-democracy’ (associative democracy). However, it is not clear to what extent citizens are able to shape self-organization in a sustainable manner, what the important factors in this respect are and if citizens’ initiatives are the sole preserve of a better educated group of citizens. Through a secondary quantitative analysis of 56 citizens’ initiatives, this article offers an empirical contribution to answering these questions. The authors explore the effects of three possible factors on the sustainability of citizens’ initiatives: the network structure of the citizens’ initiative, the organizational design of the initiative and the revenue model. They show significant relationships between the organizational design of citizens’ initiatives and their sustainability. They also show a relationship between the network structure of these initiatives and their sustainability: initiatives that develop into a fully connected network or a polycentric network are more sustainable than initiatives with a star network. The personal characteristics of the initiators show a dispersal in age, descent, gender and retirement. Relatively speaking, many initiators have a high level of education: 80% has a higher professional or university education. But there are no significant relations between these personal characteristics and the sustainability of citizens’ initiatives.
Spanningsvolle verbindingen tussen verticale en horizontale sturing
Authors: Ponsioen Arnout , van Staden Mildo , Meijer Albert
Published: September 2015

Stressful connections between vertical and horizontal steering. An empirical analysis of the Dialogue Table in Groningen

This article analyses the Dialogue Table (‘Dialoogtafel’ in Dutch) in Groningen, the most northern province in the Netherlands, as an example of connecting vertical and horizontal steering. The Dialogue Table was set up to supervise the spending of compensation money for the damage from the earthquakes caused by gas extraction in this province. The Dialogue Table combines vertical forms of governance, such as a unilateral imposition of the budget and the presidency of the Dialogue Table, and more horizontal forms such as equal deliberation between administrative bodies and stakeholders. The central questions are which tensions will occur in these two different logics of steering, how one deals with these tensions and which competences this requires from civil servants. An exploratory analysis of the case shows that tensions occur around (1) the starting conditions (costs, presidency, selection and representation), (2) the progress of the process (desired results, openness, inequality) and (3) the outcomes of the process (influence). On the basis of their research, the authors offer recommendations about the organization of such hybrid steering processes and indicate which competences are required in this respect from civil servants.
The Management of Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction in Patients with Advanced Prostate Cancer
Authors: Harutyunyan Yervand S. , Antonyan Haykaz Y. , Antonyan Tigran Y. , Hambardzumyan Lernik Y. , Gevorgyan Sargis S.
Published: September 2015

Objectives: To determine the optimal time to wait for urination ability restoration after urethral catheterization and anti - androgen treatment, in cases of acute urinary retention and advanced prostate cancer. Methods: We enrolled 26 patients with histologically confirmed prostate cancer after transrectal ultrasound guided biopsy of the prostate and CT or MRI proven advanced stages (T3-T4). We evaluated the dynamic changes of the following factors; IPSS, QoL, Vmax, residual urine, serum concentration of PSA at the following periods; before hormonal treatment, 1, 3 and 6 months after hormonal treatment. Results: How long we have to wait after urethral catheter insertion and hormonal treatment for voiding ability restoration? Our data analyses revealed the answer to this question. The dynamic changes of all the parameters (IPSS, QoL, Vmax, PSA) we studied disclosed interesting regularity. The consequent comparative analyses of parameters showed statistically significant changes only 1 month after anti - androgen treatment. These changes indicate that the prostate cancerous process is significantly suppressed within 1 month after hormonal treatment and there is no point to wait more than 1 month. Conclusion: Analyzing our data we obtained versatile evidence, that in advanced prostate cancer and acute urinary retention cases the optimal time to wait for sufficient voiding is 1 month period after permanent catheter insertion and anti - androgen treatment.
Thermodynamic Modeling of Chiral Compounds Solubility Using Correlative and Predictive Models
Authors: Salimi Morteza , Zarenezhad Bahman , Fakhraian Hossein , Choobdari Ebrahim
Published: September 2015

Many intermolecular forces and parameters affect the solubility of a compound in a solvent. Various thermodynamic models are presented to predict these parameters and determine solid liquid equilibrium data. By selecting suitable thermodynamic model for solubility modeling, calculation error is reduced and the results will be closer to the experimental data. Herein, the ability of two predictive and two correlative models in solubility modeling of chiral compounds is investigated. Thus, solubility of pure and racemic forms of chiral Ketamine, Mandelic acid and 3-Chloromandelic acid is evaluated using UNIQUAC and NRTL models. The solubility modeling of pure and racemic forms of Ketamine in Ethanol is also determined by UNIFAC and NRTL-SAC models. There are good agreement between experimental data and results of NRTL and UNIQUAC models. Predictive NRTL-SAC model shows smaller deviation than UNIFAC in solubility determination of pure and racemic form of Ketamine.
10necessárias falas: cidade, arquitetura e urbanismo
Authors: Heliodorio Lima Sampaio Antonio
Published: September 2015

Esta publicação integra a Coleção do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Arquitetura e Urbanismo da Universidade Federal da Bahia (Coleção PPG-AU FAUFBA), da Editora da Universidade Federal da Bahia (EDUFBA). Consiste em uma coletânea de ensaios acerca de planejamento, arquitetura e urbanismo, estabelecendo relações de totalidade e fragmentos, expondo ideias e percepções do autor, algumas ainda provisórias e abertas ao diálogo com os leitores. O livro vincula-se a uma ideia de totalidade bem diferente da adotada pelo senso comum dos arquitetos e pertence a um tempo atual, registrando um espaço-tempo específico.
CarD uses a minor groove wedge mechanism to stabilize the RNA polymerase open promoter complex
Authors: Bae Brian , Chen James , Davis Elizabeth , Leon Katherine , Darst Seth A , Campbell Elizabeth A
Published: September 2015

A key point to regulate gene expression is at transcription initiation, and activators play a major role. CarD, an essential activator in Mycobacterium tuberculosis, is found in many bacteria, including Thermus species, but absent in Escherichia coli. To delineate the molecular mechanism of CarD, we determined crystal structures of Thermus transcription initiation complexes containing CarD. The structures show CarD interacts with the unique DNA topology presented by the upstream double-stranded/single-stranded DNA junction of the transcription bubble. We confirm that our structures correspond to functional activation complexes, and extend our understanding of the role of a conserved CarD Trp residue that serves as a minor groove wedge, preventing collapse of the transcription bubble to stabilize the transcription initiation complex. Unlike E. coli RNAP, many bacterial RNAPs form unstable promoter complexes, explaining the need for CarD.
Structural determinants of nuclear export signal orientation in binding to exportin CRM1
Authors: Fung Ho Yee Joyce , Fu Szu-Chin , Brautigam Chad A , Chook Yuh Min
Published: September 2015

The Chromosome Region of Maintenance 1 (CRM1) protein mediates nuclear export of hundreds of proteins through recognition of their nuclear export signals (NESs), which are highly variable in sequence and structure. The plasticity of the CRM1-NES interaction is not well understood, as there are many NES sequences that seem incompatible with structures of the NES-bound CRM1 groove. Crystal structures of CRM1 bound to two different NESs with unusual sequences showed the NES peptides binding the CRM1 groove in the opposite orientation (minus) to that of previously studied NESs (plus). Comparison of minus and plus NESs identified structural and sequence determinants for NES orientation. The binding of NESs to CRM1 in both orientations results in a large expansion in NES consensus patterns and therefore a corresponding expansion of potential NESs in the proteome.
Catching more flies with vinegar
Authors: Jouandet Genevieve C , Gallio Marco
Published: September 2015

Two signalling pathways work together to reshape olfactory responses so that hungry flies are attracted to food sources they would otherwise ignore.
Interfirm Structure and Buyer-Salesperson Behavior Impact on Relationship Outcomes
Authors: Johnson-Busbin Julie T. , Busbin James W. , Boles James S. , Barksdale Hiram C.
Published: September 2015

The individual level interaction between the buyer and salesperson can best be understood in the broader framework provided by the inter-firm relationship. Very little research has been conducted that examines both firm level and interpersonal level constructs in the context of business relationships. The primary purpose of this study is to design and test a theoretical model that examines the effect of inter-firm structure and buyer-salesperson behaviors on relationship outcomes. The results suggest that in established relationships, the external environment plays a role in determining the how buyer-seller firms structure their relationships. The way in which the relationship is structured plays an important role in determining how the buyer and salesperson interact. Both inter-firm structure and buyer-salesperson behaviors, in turn, influence buyer satisfaction.
Internet-Enabled Mobile Handheld Devices for Mobile Commerce
Authors: Hu Wen-Chen , Yeh Jyh-haw , Chu Hung-Ju , Lee Chung-wei
Published: September 2015

The emergence of wireless and mobile networks has made possible the introduction of electronic commerce to a new application and research area: mobile commerce. Internet-enabled mobile handheld devices are one of the core components of a mobile commerce system, making it possible for mobile users to directly interact with mobile commerce applications. Much of a mobile user’s first impression of the application will be formed by his or her interaction with the device, therefore the success of mobile commerce applications is greatly dependent on how easy they are to use. This article first explains the role of handheld devices in mobile commerce systems and then discusses the devices in detail. A mobile handheld device includes six major components: i) a mobile operating system, ii) a mobile central processor unit, iii) a microbrowser, iv) input/output devices, v) a memory, and vi) batteries. Each component is described in detail and major products and technologies for the component are given. The technology needed for synchronization with desktop PCs and various mobile commerce applications is also presented.
Biogenic carbon fluxes from global agricultural production and consumption
Authors: Wolf Julie , West Tristram O. , Le Page Yannick , Kyle G. Page , Zhang Xuesong , Collatz G. James , Imhoff Marc L.
Published: September 2015

Quantification of biogenic carbon fluxes from agricultural lands is needed to generate comprehensive bottom‐up estimates of net carbon exchange for global and regional carbon monitoring. We estimated global agricultural carbon fluxes associated with annual crop net primary production (NPP), harvested biomass, and consumption of biomass by humans and livestock. These estimates were combined for a single estimate of net carbon exchange and spatially distributed to 0.05° resolution using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer satellite land cover data. Global crop NPP in 2011 was estimated at 5.25 ± 0.46 Pg C yr−1, of which 2.05 ± 0.05 Pg C yr−1 was harvested and 0.54 Pg C yr−1 was collected from crop residues for livestock fodder. Total livestock feed intake in 2011 was 2.42 ± 0.21 Pg C yr−1, of which 2.31 ± 0.21 Pg C yr−1 was emitted as CO2, 0.07 ± 0.01 Pg C yr−1 was emitted as CH4, and 0.04 Pg C yr−1 was contained within milk and egg production. Livestock grazed an estimated 1.27 Pg C yr−1 in 2011, which constituted 52.4% of total feed intake. Global human food intake was 0.57 ± 0.03 Pg C yr−1 in 2011, the majority of which was respired as CO2. Completed global cropland carbon budgets accounted for the ultimate use of approximately 80% of harvested biomass. The spatial distribution of these fluxes may be used for global carbon monitoring, estimation of regional uncertainty, and for use as input to Earth system models.
Successive estimation of a tsunami wavefield without earthquake source data: A data assimilation approach toward real‐time tsunami forecasting
Authors: Maeda Takuto , Obara Kazushige , Shinohara Masanao , Kanazawa Toshihiko , Uehira Kenji
Published: September 2015

We propose a tsunami forecasting method based on a data assimilation technique designed for dense tsunameter networks. Rather than using seismic source parameters or initial sea surface height as the initial condition of for a tsunami forecasting, it estimates the current tsunami wavefield (tsunami height and tsunami velocity) in real time by repeatedly assimilating dense tsunami data into a numerical simulation. Numerical experiments were performed using a simple 1‐D station array and the 2‐D layout of the new S‐net tsunameter network around the Japan Trench. Treating a synthetic tsunami calculated by the finite‐difference method as observed data, the data assimilation reproduced the assumed tsunami wavefield before the tsunami struck the coastline. Because the method estimates the full tsunami wavefield, including velocity, these wavefields can be used as initial conditions for other tsunami simulations to calculate inundation or runup for real‐time forecasting.
Effect of ions on sulfuric acid‐water binary particle formation: 1. Theory for kinetic‐ and nucleation‐type particle formation and atmospheric implications
Authors: Merikanto Joonas , Duplissy Jonathan , Määttänen Anni , Henschel Henning , Donahue Neil M. , Brus David , Schobesberger Siegfried , Kulmala Markku , Vehkamäki Hanna
Published: September 2015

We derive a version of Classical Nucleation Theory normalized by quantum chemical results on sulfuric acid‐water hydration to describe neutral and ion‐induced particle formation in the binary sulfuric acid‐water system. The theory is extended to treat the kinetic regime where the nucleation free energy barrier vanishes at high sulfuric acid concentrations or low temperatures. In the kinetic regime particle formation rates become proportional to sulfuric acid concentration to second power in the neutral system or first power in the ion‐induced system. We derive simple general expressions for the prefactors in kinetic‐type and activation‐type particle formation calculations applicable also to more complex systems stabilized by other species. The theory predicts that the binary water‐sulfuric acid system can produce strong new particle formation in the free troposphere both through barrier crossing and through kinetic pathways. At cold stratospheric and upper free tropospheric temperatures neutral formation dominates the binary particle formation rates. At midtropospheric temperatures the ion‐induced pathway becomes the dominant mechanism. However, even the ion‐induced binary mechanism does not produce significant particle formation in warm boundary layer conditions, as it requires temperatures below 0°C to take place at atmospheric concentrations. The theory successfully reproduces the characteristics of measured charged and neutral binary particle formation in CERN CLOUD3 and CLOUD5 experiments, as discussed in a companion paper.
Evaluating stomatal models and their atmospheric drought response in a land surface scheme: A multibiome analysis
Authors: Knauer Jürgen , Werner Christiane , Zaehle Sönke
Published: September 2015

Stomatal conductance (gs) is a key variable in Earth system models as it regulates the transfer of carbon and water between the terrestrial biosphere and the lower atmosphere. Various approaches have been developed that aim for a simple representation of stomatal regulation applicable at the global scale. These models differ, among others, in their response to atmospheric humidity, which induces stomatal closure in a dry atmosphere. In this study, we compared the widely used empirical Ball‐Berry and Leuning stomatal conductance models to an alternative empirical approach, an optimization‐based approach, and a semimechanistic hydraulic model. We evaluated these models using evapotranspiration (ET) and gross primary productivity (GPP) observations derived from eddy covariance measurements at 56 sites across multiple biomes and climatic conditions. The different models were embedded in the land surface model JSBACH. Differences in performance across plant functional types or climatic conditions were small, partly owing to the large variations in the observational data. The models yielded comparable results at low to moderate atmospheric drought but diverged under dry atmospheric conditions, where models with a low sensitivity to air humidity tended to overestimate gs. The Ball‐Berry model gave the best fit to the data for most biomes and climatic conditions, but all evaluated approaches have proven adequate for use in land surface models. Our findings further encourage future efforts toward a vegetation‐type‐specific parameterization of gs to improve the modeling of coupled terrestrial carbon and water dynamics.
Death Penalty and Race
Authors: Lee Jacqueline G. C. , Paternoster Ray , Rowan Zachary
Published: September 2015

There has always been an association between race and the death penalty in America, which should not be surprising given the history of racial animus in the country. This animus has been expressed in both formal and informal attempts to discipline racial minorities from the Slave Codes, lynchings after reconstruction, Jim Crow laws, to the historical and current imposition of the death penalty. In the past African American offenders were more likely to fare worse at every decision‐making point in the capital punishment system. Now, those who slay white offenders are consistently more likely to ultimately find themselves on death row. Although there have been attempts to legally reform the death penalty, it continues to be fraught with racial disparity in its administration.
S
outheast
A
sia
Authors: Kingsbury Damien
Published: September 2015

Southeast Asia occupies the mainland area east of India and south of China, as well as the archipelago between the mainland and Australia, west of the Pacific Ocean. The region is self‐identified by its geographic proximity, although cultural commonalities across the region occur mostly at the level of
consensus gentium
rather than as an overarching mode of regional distinction. Its peoples derive from a broad East Asian racial grouping, dividing primarily along linguistic lines into four families of languages. These linguistic families thereafter quickly devolve into hundreds of ethnic groups, many of which have been bound together in postcolonial states that, to various degrees, comply or otherwise with precolonial polities. While some states have a strong sense of coherent national identity, others have had to consciously construct such an identity, with varying degrees of success and not a little resistance.
Colonialism, Modern, and Race
Authors: Steinmetz George
Published: September 2015

Empire, colonialism, and race have been linked for more than two millennia. The very concept of race emerged in the context of empire. Modern colonial empires intensified the connections to race, since these polities were predicated on defining the colonized as inherently inferior to their colonizers. Present‐day race relations should not automatically be assumed to have a colonial dimension, but neither should colonialism be dismissed as a possible determinant. Some contemporary race relations are objectively colonial ones; others continue to be shaped by past colonial subjectivities, institutions, and social structures.
Modernization and Families
Authors: Scanzoni John
Published: September 2015

Adaptation implies survival and is thus seen as desirable. Persons in the west are adapting to their evolving environment – the postindustrial information age (PIIA) – by modernizing or changing their family styles in the hope of devising entities that are compatible with PIIA. The challenges they face stem largely from the distinctive characteristics of the PIIA economy. Women and men seeking to adapt in optimal fashion to the PIIA economy have little choice but to pursue economic endeavors that require critical thinking and problem‐solving. Many of the adaptations they have devised have led critics to assert that today's families are undergoing decay and decline, not simply modernization. Critics allege that adults are so intent on pursuing their individual interests that they neglect their children's emotional and spiritual well‐being; their solution for fixing this purported problem is typically a reaffirmation of the nuclear family style.
International Violence against Women Act
Authors: Aly Rasha
Published: September 2015

Violence against women is a major problem worldwide. About one in three women experiences some kind of violence. US lawmakers have been trying to get the United States more involved in preventing violence against women throughout the world. One way to do this would be through the proposed legislation of the International Violence against Women Act. However, lawmakers have faced many challenges in trying to pass this bill through Congress.
Endogenous Stimuli‐Sensitive Multistage Polymeric Micelleplex Anticancer Drug Delivery System for Efficient Tumor Penetration and Cellular Internalization
Authors: Li Junjie , Ke Wendong , Li Hui , Zha Zengshi , Han Yu , Ge Zhishen
Published: September 2015

To efficiently deliver anticancer drugs to the entire tumor tissue and cancer cells, an endogenous stimuli‐sensitive multistage polymeric micelleplex drug delivery system is developed via electrostatic complexation between poly(ethylene glycol)‐block‐poly[(N′‐dimethylmaleoyl‐2‐aminoethyl)aspartamide]‐block‐poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PEG‐b‐PAsp(EDA‐DM)‐b‐PCL) triblock copolymer micelles and cisplatin prodrug (Pt(IV))‐conjugated cationic poly(amidoamine) dendrimers (PAMAM‐Pt(IV)). The micelleplexes maintain structural stability at pH 7.4 ensuring long blood circulation and high tumor accumulation level, while they exhibit triggered release of secondary PAMAM‐Pt(IV) dendrimer nanocarriers at tumoral acidity (≈pH 6.8) due to acid‐labile charge‐reversal properties of PAsp(EDA‐DM) component under mildly acidic condition. The released PAMAM delivery nanocarriers with small size and slightly positive charges exhibit significantly deep tumor tissue penetration and efficient cellular internalization, followed by release of active cisplatin anticancer drug in intracellular reducing medium. In vivo investigation reveals that the Pt(IV)‐loading micelleplexes significantly suppress tumor growth via intravenous injection due to synergistic effect of long circulation in bloodstream, high tumor accumulation, deep tumor tissue penetration, and efficient cellular internalization. Thus, the micelleplexes with stimuli‐responsive multistage release feature show great potentials for better therapeutic efficacy of cancer especially through enhanced tumor penetration and cellular internalization.
Hydrolytically Degradable Hyperbranched PEG‐Polyester Adhesive with Low Swelling and Robust Mechanical Properties
Authors: Zhang Hong , Zhao Tianyu , Duffy Patrick , Dong Yixiao , Annaidh Aisling Ní , O'Cearbhaill Eoin , Wang Wenxin
Published: September 2015

Photocrosslinkable and water soluble hyperbranched PEG‐polyester polymers (HPEGDA) have been developed as robust degradable adhesives. The HPEGDA polymers have been synthesized from controlled homopolymerization of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA700) via in situ deactivation enhanced atom transfer radical polymerization (DE‐ATRP). By introducing a high initiator‐to‐monomer ratio, the obtained HPEGDA polymer is composed of extremely short carbon–carbon backbones interconnected together by the long PEG chains as well as pendent photocrosslinkable acrylate moieties. Due to the extremely short C–C backbone, the long PEG chains can therefore be seen as the main chain, thus, HPEGDA polymers behave more like polyester which is a category of polymers that contain the ester functional group in their main chain. Photo‐cured HPEGDA can be readily adhered to tissue forming a patch with robust mechanical and adhesive strengths. The degradation profile by hydrolysis of polyester blocks as well as a significantly low swelling ratio of HPEGDA gels in an aqueous environment allow them to have great potential for sealing and repair of internal tissue. Furthermore, HPEGDA gels appear to have minor significant cytotoxicity in vitro. These unique properties indicate that the reported HPEGDA polymers are well poised for the development of adhesive tissue engineering matrixes, wound dressings, and sealants.
Strawberry‐like Core–Shell Ag@Polydopamine@BaTiO3 Hybrid Nanoparticles for High‐k Polymer Nanocomposites with High Energy Density and Low Dielectric Loss
Authors: Yang Ke , Huang Xingyi , He Jinliang , Jiang Pingkai
Published: September 2015

Flexible nanocomposites comprising of polymer and high‐dielectric‐constant (high‐k) ceramic nanoparticles are becoming increasingly attractive for dielectric and energy storage applications in modern electronic and electric industry. However, a huge challenge still remains. Namely, the increase of dielectric constant usually at the cost of significant decrease of breakdown strength of the nanocomposites because of the electric field distortion and concentration induced by the high‐k filler. To address this long‐standing problem, by using nano‐Ag decorated core–shell polydopamine (PDA) coated BaTiO3 (BT) hybrid nanoparticles, a new strategy is developed to prepare high‐k polymer nanocomposites with high breakdown strength. The strawberry‐like BT‐PDA‐Ag based ferroelectric polymer [i.e., poly(vinylideneflyoride‐co‐hexafluroro propylene), P(VDF‐HFP)] nanocomposites exhibit greatly enhanced energy density and significantly suppressed dielectric loss as well as leakage current density in comparison with the nanocomposites with the core–shell structured BT‐PDA. Coulomb‐blockade effect of super‐small nano‐Ag is used to explain the observed performance enhancement of the nanocomposites. The simplicity and scalability of the described approach provide a promising route to polymer nanocomposites for dielectric and energy storage applications.
Successful matched sibling donor marrow transplantation following reduced intensity conditioning in children with hemoglobinopathies
Authors: King Allison A. , Kamani Naynesh , Bunin Nancy , Sahdev Indira , Brochstein Joel , Hayashi Robert J. , Grimley Michael , Abraham Allistair , Dioguardi Jacqueline , Wah Chan Ka , Douglas Dorothea , Adams Roberta , Andreansky Martin , Anderson Eric , Gilman Andrew , Chaudhury Sonali , Yu Lolie , Dalal Jignesh , Hale Gregory , Cuvelier Geoff , Jain Akshat , Krajewski Jennifer , Gillio Alfred , Kasow Kimberly A. , Delgado David , Hanson Eric , Murray Lisa , Shenoy Shalini
Published: September 2015

Fifty‐two children with symptomatic sickle cell disease sickle cell disease (SCD) (N = 43) or transfusion‐dependent thalassemia (N = 9) received matched sibling donor marrow (46), marrow and cord product (5), or cord blood (1) allografts following reduced intensity conditioning (RIC) with alemtuzumab, fludarabine, and melphalan between March 2003 and May 2014*. The Kaplan–Meier probabilities of overall and event‐free survival at a median of 3.42 (range, 0.75–11.83) years were 94.2% and 92.3% for the group, 93% and 90.7% for SCD, and 100% and 100% for thalassemia, respectively. Treatment‐related mortality (all related to graft versus host disease, GVHD) was noted in three (5.7%) recipients, all 17–18 years of age. Acute and chronic GVHD was noted in 23% and 13%, respectively, with 81% of recipients off immunosuppression by 1 year. Graft rejection was limited to the single umbilical cord blood recipient who had prompt autologous hematopoietic recovery. Fourteen (27%) had mixed chimerism at 1 year and beyond; all had discontinued immunosuppression between 4 and 12 months from transplant with no subsequent consequence on GVHD or rejection. Infectious complications included predominantly bacteremia (48% were staphylococcus) and CMV reactivation (43%) necessitating preemptive therapy. Lymphocyte recovery beyond 6 months was associated with subsidence of infectious complications. All patients who engrafted were transfusion independent; no strokes or pulmonary complications of SCD were noted, and pain symptoms subsided within 6 months posttransplant. These findings support using RIC for patients with hemoglobinopathy undergoing matched sibling marrow transplantation (*www.Clinical Trials.gov: NCT00920972, NCT01050855, NCT02435901). Am. J. Hematol. 90:1093–1098, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Season of birth influences the timing of first menstruation
Authors: Kliś Katarzyna , Jarzebak Krzysztof , Borowska‐Strugińska Beata , Mulawa Agnieszka , Żurawiecka Martyna , Wronka Iwona
Published: September 2015

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the month of birth influences the maturation rate of Polish females from two birth cohorts, namely 1982–1984 and 1992–1994. It was also verified whether socioeconomic status (SES) is capable of altering the above relationship.

Methods

The research material consisted of data collected in two cross‐sectional surveys. The first cohort involved 1,008 female secondary‐school students, the second, 671 female university students. Information on subjects' date of birth, SES, and the age at menarche was obtained from a questionnaire. The subjects were divided into four groups, according to the month of birth: born in spring (III–V), born in summer (VI–VIII), born in autumn (IX–XI), and born in winter (XII–II). Next, the subjects were divided into two groups: born in summer months (VI–VIII) and born in the other months (IX–V).

Results

In the first cohort, subjects born in the summer reach menarche significantly earlier than subjects born in other seasons. The same tendency was noticeable in subjects born in the years 1992–1994; however, the differences were not statistically significant. In both cohorts, girls born in summer months had their first menstruation at a younger age than girls born in other months. The difference in age at menarche between season/months was also seen after dividing the data into uniform groups in terms of SES.

Conclusion

The present data suggest that the season of birth influences sexual maturation rate in women. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 28:226–232, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Association between Kniest dysplasia and chondrosarcoma in a child
Authors: Hochart Audrey , Dieux Anne , Coucke Paul , Fron Damien , Fayoux Pierre , Labalette Pierre , Boutry Nathalie , Escande Fabienne , Aubert Sébastien , Renaud Florence , Rocourt Nathalie , Vinchon Matthieu , Leblond Pierre
Published: September 2015

Constitutive COL2A1 mutations are associated with a wide variety of clinical manifestations known as type II collagenopathies. Among them is Kniest dysplasia, which is phenotypically variable and includes both skeletal (short trunk and limbs, kyphoscoliosis, prominent joints, and osteoarthritis) and craniofacial characteristics. Kniest dysplasia mutations primarily arise in the triple‐helicoidal region of the alpha 1 (II) chain in COL2A1 between exons 12 and 24. Somatic COL2A1 mutations have been identified in chondrosarcoma, a rare cartilage forming neoplasm, with a hypermutability of the gene reported in 37% of cases. However, to the best of our knowledge, there is no reported increase in predisposition to chondrosarcoma in human collagenopathies, and no reported clinical association between these congenital diseases and cartilaginous tumors. In the case study presented here, we report the first description of an association between these two rare diseases involving COL2A1, in a child presenting with Kniest dysplasia and a grade I sphenoethmoidal chondrosarcoma. We also describe a new constitutive mutation in COL2A1. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genetics of aggressive behavior: An overview
Authors: Veroude Kim , Zhang‐James Yanli , Fernàndez‐Castillo Noèlia , Bakker Mireille J. , Cormand Bru , Faraone Stephen V.
Published: September 2015

The Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) address three types of aggression: frustrative non‐reward, defensive aggression and offensive/proactive aggression. This review sought to present the evidence for genetic underpinnings of aggression and to determine to what degree prior studies have examined phenotypes that fit into the RDoC framework. Although the constructs of defensive and offensive aggression have been widely used in the animal genetics literature, the human literature is mostly agnostic with regard to all the RDoC constructs. We know from twin studies that about half the variance in behavior may be explained by genetic risk factors. This is true for both dimensional, trait‐like, measures of aggression and categorical definitions of psychopathology. The non‐shared environment seems to have a moderate influence with the effects of shared environment being unclear. Human molecular genetic studies of aggression are in an early stage. The most promising candidates are in the dopaminergic and serotonergic systems along with hormonal regulators. Genome‐wide association studies have not yet achieved genome‐wide significance, but current samples are too small to detect variants having the small effects one would expect for a complex disorder. The strongest molecular evidence for a genetic basis for aggression comes from animal models comparing aggressive and non‐aggressive strains or documenting the effects of gene knockouts. Although we have learned much from these prior studies, future studies should improve the measurement of aggression by using a systematic method of measurement such as that proposed by the RDoC initiative. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Predictors of heroin relapse: Personality traits, impulsivity, COMT gene Val158met polymorphism in a 5‐year prospective study in Shanghai, China
Authors: Su Hang , Li Zhibin , Du Jiang , Jiang Haifeng , Chen Zhikang , Sun Haiming , Zhao Min
Published: September 2015

Relapse is a typical feature of heroin addiction and rooted in genetic and psychological determinants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of personality traits, impulsivity, and COMT gene polymorphism (rs4680) on relapse to heroin use during 5‐year follow up. 564 heroin dependent patients were enrolled in compulsory drug rehabilitation center. 12 months prior to their release, personality traits were measured by BIS‐11 (Barratt Impulsiveness Scale‐11) and Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI). The COMT gene rs4680 polymorphism was genotyped using a DNA sequence detection system. The heroin use status was evaluated for 5 years after discharged. Among the 564 heroin‐dependent patients, 500 were followed for 5 years after discharge and 53.0% (n = 265) were considered as relapsed to heroin use according to a strict monitor system. Univariate analysis showed that age, having ever been in methadone maintenance treatment (MMT), the total scores and non‐planning scores of BIS‐11, and the COMT rs4680 gene variants were different between relapse and abstinent groups. Logistic regression analysis showed higher BIS total score, having ever been in MMT and younger first heroin use age are the predictors of relapse to heroin use during 5 years follow‐up, and the COMT rs4680 gene had an interaction with BIS scores. Our findings indicated that the impulsive personality traits, methadone use history, and onset age could predict relapse in heroin‐dependent patients during 5 year's follow up. The COMT gene showed a moderational effect in part the relationship of impulsivity with heroin relapse. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.