bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tracking transcription factor mobility and interaction in Arabidopsis roots with fluorescence correlation spectroscopy
Authors: Clark Natalie M , Hinde Elizabeth , Winter Cara M , Fisher Adam P , Crosti Giuseppe , Blilou Ikram , Gratton Enrico , Benfey Philip N , Sozzani Rosangela
Published: June 2016

To understand complex regulatory processes in multicellular organisms, it is critical to be able to quantitatively analyze protein movement and protein-protein interactions in time and space. During Arabidopsis development, the intercellular movement of SHORTROOT (SHR) and subsequent interaction with its downstream target SCARECROW (SCR) control root patterning and cell fate specification. However, quantitative information about the spatio-temporal dynamics of SHR movement and SHR-SCR interaction is currently unavailable. Here, we quantify parameters including SHR mobility, oligomeric state, and association with SCR using a combination of Fluorescent Correlation Spectroscopy (FCS) techniques. We then incorporate these parameters into a mathematical model of SHR and SCR, which shows that SHR reaches a steady state in minutes, while SCR and the SHR-SCR complex reach a steady-state between 18 and 24 hr. Our model reveals the timing of SHR and SCR dynamics and allows us to understand how protein movement and protein-protein stoichiometry contribute to development.
Experimental analysis of behavior in nanobubbles using echograms under ultrasound exposure
Authors: Wada Hikaru , Koido Jun , Miyazawa Shinya , Mochizuki Takashi , Masuda Kohji , Unga Johan , Oda Yusuke , Suzuki Ryo , Maruyama Kazuo
Published: June 2016

Although we have reported our attempts to actively control microbubbles in flow using acoustic radiation force for future drug delivery systems, the microbubbles we used are not applicable for in vivo experiments. Thus, we examined two types of nanobubble with a drug-retaining function. Because the nanobubbles are invisible in a conventional optical observation, we observed the behavior of nanobubbles using ultrasound images (echograms). First, we found the optimal settings of echography to guarantee the relationship between the brightness variation and lipid concentration of nanobubbles. Then, we derived the destructive coefficient using two types of path under continuous ultrasound exposure of 5 MHz. Results indicate that the controllability is related to the construction of nanobubbles and the spatial distribution of the ultrasound field. We realized that the design of the ultrasound field is important with Bubble A, whereas the frequency of ultrasound emission needs to be discussed with Bubble B.
Theoretical modeling of pulse discharge cycle in dielectric barrier discharge plasma actuator
Authors: Sato Shintaro , Ohnishi Naofumi
Published: June 2016

Simple models based on two-dimensional simulations are proposed to estimate intervals of periodically observed current pulses with a positive-going voltage in a dielectric barrier discharge plasma actuator. There are two distinct peaks in one streamer discharge; one is related to the formation of an ion cloud and the other is related to a filamentary discharge that is identified as a streamer. Simulation results show that the intervals of the current pulses depend on the slope of the applied voltage. For the ion-cloud formation phase, we model the time evolution of electron number density at the exposed electrode with ionization frequency. For the ion-cloud expansion phase, a positive ion cylinder model is proposed to estimate the electric field generated by surface charge on the dielectric. These models well reproduce the discharge intervals obtained in the numerical simulations.
Fuzzy based binary feature profiling for modus operandi analysis
Authors: Chamikara Mahawaga Arachchige Pathum , Galappaththi Akalanka , Yapa Roshan Dharshana , Nawarathna Ruwan Dharshana , Kodituwakku Saluka Ranasinghe , Gunatilake Jagath , Jayathilake Aththanapola Arachchilage Chathranee Anumitha , Liyanage Liwan
Published: June 2016

It is a well-known fact that some criminals follow perpetual methods of operations known as modi operandi. Modus operandi is a commonly used term to describe the habits in committing crimes. These modi operandi are used in relating criminals to crimes for which the suspects have not yet been recognized. This paper presents the design, implementation and evaluation of a new method to find connections between crimes and criminals using modi operandi. The method involves generating a feature matrix for a particular criminal based on the flow of events of his/her previous convictions. Then, based on the feature matrix, two representative modi operandi are generated: complete modus operandi and dynamic modus operandi. These two representative modi operandi are compared with the flow of events of the crime at hand, in order to generate two other outputs: completeness probability (CP) and deviation probability (DP). CP and DP are used as inputs to a fuzzy inference system to generate a score which is used in providing a measurement for the similarity between the suspect and the crime at hand. The method was evaluated using actual crime data and ten other open data sets. In addition, comparison with nine other classification algorithms showed that the proposed method performs competitively with other related methods proving that the performance of the new method is at an acceptable level.
EDUCACIÓN RELIGIOSA EN ESCUELAS PÚBLICAS: LA TENSIÓN DEL CASO BRASILEÑO
Authors:   Centro Universitário La Salle - Canoas (Brasil), Weingartner Neto Jayme
Published: June 2016

El texto trata de “educación religiosa” en las escuelas públicas de primaria, polémica en Brasil a partir de la previsión literal en la norma constitucional. Aunque de matrícula facultativa, la ley general relativa a la educación y el acuerdo celebrado por el Estado brasileño con la Santa Sede están siendo discutidos en la Corte Suprema con base en el principio de Estado laico. Se concluye que el modelo interconfesional no viola a la Constitución y mismo el confesional (desde que no haya participación excesiva del Estado) puede ser compatibilizado, desde que sean respetados los valores constitucionales básicos
LIMITACIÓN DE LA LIBERTAD PARA MANIFESTAR LA RELIGIÓN: LA INTERPRETACIÓN POR EL TERCER DE LOS "DERECHOS Y LIBERTADES DE LOS DEMÁS"
Authors: Pérez Dibarrart Magdalena
Published: June 2016

Durante las últimas décadas, la limitación de la libertad de manifestar su religión ha sido un tema controversial. Algunos estados europeos han impuesto limitaciones al uso de algunos símbolos y vestimentas religiosas, y el Tribunal Europeo de Derechos Humanos (el “Tribunal”) ha emitido varias decisiones respecto a estos asuntos. Para que una restricción sea legítima, ésta debe constituir una medida necesaria, y una de esas posibles medidas necesarias es la protección de los derechos o las libertades de los demás. Con el objetivo de clarificar qué implica esta medida necesaria se estudiaron varias decisiones del Tribunal sobre este tema. Se concluyó que, en general, el Tribunal no suele analizar este concepto con mucha profundidad. Sin embargo, se destacaron importantes inferencias, en base a las cuales también se recalcaron algunos problemas en el análisis del Tribunal. Esos problemas implican una menor protección de la libertad de manifestar su religión mediante el uso de símbolos y vestimentas religiosas.
HIYAB Y ESCUELA EN ESPAÑA: UN SUPUESTO DE GESTIÓN EXCLUYENTE DE LA DIVERSIDAD
Authors: Morón Antón María
Published: June 2016

En los últimos años se han recrudecido los conflictos relacionados con la utilización de atuendos identificativos de la creencia por parte de algunas estudiantes musulmanas, concretamente el pañuelo islámico o hiyab. ¿Hay que permitir su presencia en las aulas? ¿Debe prevalecer el derecho a la educación o la libertad religiosa? La falta de legislación ante un fenómeno impensable en nuestro país hace unos años ha generado un vacío legal que alimenta el debate, no sólo en foros jurídicos y políticos, sino también en la calle. La integración debe ser el objetivo a lograr, pero debemos preguntarnos si el sistema hace lo necesario para tender a ella. La respuesta es un rotundo no a juzgar por el asunto Najwa Malha, eje del presente estudio
THz limb sounder (TLS) for lower thermospheric wind, oxygen density, and temperature
Authors: Wu Dong L. , Yee Jeng‐Hwa , Schlecht Erich , Mehdi Imran , Siles Jose , Drouin Brian J.
Published: June 2016

Neutral winds are one of the most critical measurements in the lower thermosphere and E region ionosphere (LTEI) for understanding complex electrodynamic processes and ion‐neutral interactions. We are developing a high‐sensitivity, low‐power, noncryogenic 2.06 THz Schottky receiver to measure wind profiles at 100–140 km. The new technique, THz limb sounder (TLS), aims to measure LTEI winds by resolving the wind‐induced Doppler shift of 2.06 THz atomic oxygen (OI) emissions. As a transition between fine structure levels in the ground electronic state, the OI emission is in local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) at altitudes up to 350 km. This LTE property, together with day‐and‐night capability and small line‐of‐sight gradient, makes the OI limb sounding a very attractive technique for neutral wind observations. In addition to the wind measurement, TLS can also retrieve [OI] density and neutral temperature in the LTEI region. TLS leverages rapid advances in THz receiver technologies including subharmonically pumped (SHP) mixers and Schottky‐diode‐based power multipliers. Current SHP Schottky receivers have produced good sensitivity for THz frequencies at ambient environment temperatures (120–150 K), which are achievable through passively cooling in spaceflight. As an emerging technique, TLS can fill the critical data gaps in the LTEI neutral wind observations to enable detailed studies on the coupling and dynamo processes between charged and neutral molecules.
Sensitivity of Arctic warming to sea ice concentration
Authors: Yim Bo Young , Min Hong Sik , Kim Baek‐Min , Jeong Jee‐Hoon , Kug Jong‐Seong
Published: June 2016

We examine the sensitivity of Arctic amplification (AA) to background sea ice concentration (SIC) under greenhouse warming by analyzing the data sets of the historical and Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5 runs of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5. To determine whether the sensitivity of AA for a given radiative forcing depends on background SIC state, we examine the relationship between the AA trend and mean SIC on moving 30 year windows from 1960 to 2100. It is found that the annual mean AA trend varies depending on the mean SIC condition. In particular, some models show a highly variable AA trend in relation to the mean SIC clearly. In these models, the AA trend tends to increase until the mean SIC reaches a critical level (i.e., 20–30%), and the maximum AA trend is almost 3 to 5 times larger than the trend in the early stage of global warming (i.e., 50–60%, 60–70%). However, the AA trend tends to decrease after that. Further analysis shows that the sensitivity of AA trend to mean SIC condition is closely related to the feedback processes associated with summer surface albedo and winter turbulent heat flux in the Arctic Ocean.
Quantifying the drivers of ocean‐atmosphere CO2 fluxes
Authors: Lauderdale Jonathan M. , Dutkiewicz Stephanie , Williams Richard G. , Follows Michael J.
Published: June 2016

A mechanistic framework for quantitatively mapping the regional drivers of air‐sea CO2 fluxes at a global scale is developed. The framework evaluates the interplay between (1) surface heat and freshwater fluxes that influence the potential saturated carbon concentration, which depends on changes in sea surface temperature, salinity and alkalinity, (2) a residual, disequilibrium flux influenced by upwelling and entrainment of remineralized carbon‐ and nutrient‐rich waters from the ocean interior, as well as rapid subduction of surface waters, (3) carbon uptake and export by biological activity as both soft tissue and carbonate, and (4) the effect on surface carbon concentrations due to freshwater precipitation or evaporation. In a steady state simulation of a coarse‐resolution ocean circulation and biogeochemistry model, the sum of the individually determined components is close to the known total flux of the simulation. The leading order balance, identified in different dynamical regimes, is between the CO2 fluxes driven by surface heat fluxes and a combination of biologically driven carbon uptake and disequilibrium‐driven carbon outgassing. The framework is still able to reconstruct simulated fluxes when evaluated using monthly averaged data and takes a form that can be applied consistently in models of different complexity and observations of the ocean. In this way, the framework may reveal differences in the balance of drivers acting across an ensemble of climate model simulations or be applied to an analysis and interpretation of the observed, real‐world air‐sea flux of CO2.
High‐frequency gravity waves and homogeneous ice nucleation in tropical tropopause layer cirrus
Authors: Jensen Eric J. , Ueyama Rei , Pfister Leonhard , Bui Theopaul V. , Alexander M. Joan , Podglajen Aurélien , Hertzog Albert , Woods Sarah , Lawson R. Paul , Kim Ji‐Eun , Schoeberl Mark R.
Published: June 2016

The impact of high‐frequency gravity waves on homogeneous‐freezing ice nucleation in cold cirrus clouds is examined using parcel model simulations driven by superpressure balloon measurements of temperature variability experienced by air parcels in the tropical tropopause region. We find that the primary influence of high‐frequency waves is to generate rapid cooling events that drive production of numerous ice crystals. Quenching of ice nucleation events by temperature tendency reversal in the highest‐frequency waves does occasionally produce low ice concentrations, but the overall impact of high‐frequency waves is to increase the occurrence of high ice concentrations. The simulated ice concentrations are considerably higher than indicated by in situ measurements of cirrus in the tropical tropopause region. One‐dimensional simulations suggest that although sedimentation reduces mean ice concentrations, a discrepancy of about a factor of 3 with observed ice concentrations remains. Reconciliation of numerical simulations with the observed ice concentrations will require inclusion of physical processes such as heterogeneous nucleation and entrainment.
Electric fields associated with small‐scale magnetic holes in the plasma sheet: Evidence for electron currents
Authors: Goodrich Katherine A. , Ergun Robert E. , Stawarz Julia E.
Published: June 2016

We report observations of magnetic holes (MHs) in the near‐Earth (8 RE to 12 RE) plasma sheet that have physical sizes perpendicular to the magnetic field (B) on the order of the ion Larmor radius (ρi) and, more importantly, have current layers less than ρi in thickness. Small‐scale MHs can have >90% depletion in |B| and are commonly associated with the braking of bursty bulk flow events. The generation of MHs is often attributed to magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) instabilities, which requires a size greater than ρi; the depletion in |B| is from an ion current consistent with a pressure gradient. Electric field (E) observations indicate a negative potential inside of small‐scale MHs that creates an outward E at the boundary, which drives an E × B electron current in a thin layer. These observations indicate that a Hall electron current is primarily responsible for the depletion of |B| in small‐scale magnetic holes, rather than the ion pressure gradient.
Confirming a pyrolitic lower mantle using self‐consistent pressure scales and new constraints on CaSiO3 perovskite
Authors: Sun Ningyu , Mao Zhu , Yan Shuai , Wu Xiang , Prakapenka Vitali B. , Lin Jung‐Fu
Published: June 2016

In this study, we have examined the lower mantle composition and mineralogy by modeling the density (ρ), bulk sound velocity (VΦ), and dlnρ/dlnVΦ profiles of candidate lower mantle minerals using literature and new experimental equation of state (EoS) results. For CaSiO3 perovskite, complimentary synchrotron X‐ray diffraction measurements in a laser‐heated diamond anvil cell were conducted up to 156 GPa between 1200 K and 2600 K to provide more reliable constraints on the thermal EoS parameters. These new experimental results as well as literature P‐V‐T data sets are systematically analyzed using an internally self‐consistent pressure scale. We have modeled ρ, VΦ, and dlnρ/dlnVΦ profiles of the lower mantle with representative pyrolitic and chondritic compositional models in which the effect of Fe spin transition in ferropericlase is also taken into account. Our modeling results show that a pyrolitic lower mantle with an aggregate mineralogy of 75 vol % bridgmanite, 17 vol % ferropericlase, and 8 vol % CaSiO3 perovskite produces ρ and VΦ profiles in better agreement with preliminary reference Earth model than a lower mantle with a chondritic composition. The modeled ρ, VΦ, and dlnρ/dlnVΦ are mainly affected by the relative ratio of bridgmanite and ferropericlase but are not sensitive to the variation of the CaSiO3 perovskite content. In addition, the spin crossover of Fe in ferropericlase can greatly raise the value of dlnρ/dlnVΦ in the middle lower mantle, which is useful in detecting the presence of ferropericlase in the region. Based on these new mineral physical constraints and radial seismic structure, our study suggests the lower mantle is pyrolitic, which is chemically indistinguishable from the upper mantle.
Effects of compositional changes on reactivity continuum and decomposition kinetics of lake dissolved organic matter
Authors: Mostovaya Alina , Koehler Birgit , Guillemette François , Brunberg Anna‐Kristina , Tranvik Lars J.
Published: June 2016

To address the link between the composition and decomposition of freshwater dissolved organic matter (DOM), we manipulated the DOM from three boreal lakes using preincubations with UV light to cleave large aromatic molecules and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) to remove colored phenolic compounds. Subsequently, we monitored the dissolved organic carbon (DOC) loss over 4 months of microbial degradation in the dark to assess how compositional changes in DOM affected different aspects of the reactivity continuum, including the distribution of the apparent decay coefficients. We observed profound effects on decomposition kinetics, with pronounced shifts in the relative share of rapidly and more slowly decomposing fractions of the DOM. In the UV‐exposed treatment initial apparent decay coefficient k0 was almost threefold higher than in the control. Significantly higher relative DOC loss in the UV‐exposed treatment was sustained for 2 months of incubation, after which decay coefficients converged with those in the control. The PVP removed compounds with absorbance and fluorescence characteristics representative of aromatic compounds, which led to slower decomposition, compared to that in the control. Our results demonstrate the reactivity continuum underlying the decomposition of DOM in freshwaters and highlight the importance of intrinsic properties of DOM in determining its decomposition kinetics.
On Becoming Scholars and Activists for Disability Rights
Authors: Balcazar Fabricio E. , Suarez‐Balcazar Yolanda
Published: June 2016

In this paper, the authors discussed the nexus between the Americans with Disabilities Act and the founding of the field of Community Psychology. Contributions of the latter and future areas of research are reviewed here in three areas of importance to both fields: Community living and participation, employment, and transition from high school. Community psychology can make potential contributions to advancing research in these three areas. Implications for future research are discussed.
Proteasome inhibitor associated thrombotic microangiopathy
Authors: Yui Jennifer C. , Van Keer Jan , Weiss Brendan M. , Waxman Adam J. , Palmer Matthew B. , D'Agati Vivette D. , Kastritis Efstathios , Dimopoulos Meletios A. , Vij Ravi , Bansal Dhruv , Dingli David , Nasr Samih H. , Leung Nelson
Published: June 2016

A variety of medications have been implicated in the causation of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). Recently, a few case reports have emerged of TMA attributed to the proteasome inhibitors (PI) bortezomib and carfilzomib in patients with multiple myeloma. The aim of this case series was to better characterize the role of PI in the etiology of drug‐induced TMA. We describe eleven patients from six medical centers from around the world who developed TMA while being treated with PI. The median time between medication initiation and diagnosis of TMA was 21 days (range 5 days to 17 months). Median laboratory values at diagnosis included hemoglobin—7.5 g dL−1, platelet count—20 × 109/L, LDH—698 U L−1, creatinine—3.12 mg dL−1. No patient had any other cause of TMA, including ADAMTS13 inhibition, other malignancy or use of any other medication previously associated with TMA. Nine patients had resolution of TMA without evidence of hemolysis after withdrawal of PI. Two patients had stabilization of laboratory values but persistent evidence of hemolysis despite medication withdrawal. One patient had recurrence of TMA with rechallenge of PI. There is a strong level of evidence that PI can cause DITMA. In evaluating patients with suspected TMA, PI use should be recognized as a potential etiology, and these medications should be discontinued promptly if thought to be the cause of TMA. Am. J. Hematol. 91:E348–E352, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A de novo microtriplication at 4q21.21‐q21.22 in a patient with a vascular malignant hemangioma, elongated sigmoid colon, developmental delay, and absence of speech
Authors: Lebedev Igor N. , Nazarenko Lyudmila P. , Skryabin Nikolay A. , Babushkina Nadezhda P. , Kashevarova Anna A.
Published: June 2016

The widespread application of array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) has provided new insights into the clinical significance of copy number variations (CNVs) in the human genome. Many microdeletion syndromes have recently been linked to corresponding reciprocal microduplication syndromes related to CNVs in the same chromosomal regions. However, the extent of CNVs may not be restricted to only microduplications but may also include microtriplications or even quadruplications. 4q21 microdeletion syndrome is one of these recently described syndromes. The phenotype includes growth restriction, neonatal hypotonia, severe developmental delay, absent or delayed speech, and distinct facial features. The minimal critical deleted region, which is 1.3 Mb in size, contains the PRKG2, RASGEF1B, HNRNPD, HNRPDL, and ENOPH1 genes. Here, we report a 5.4‐year‐old girl with developmental delay, absence of speech, muscular hypertension, macrocephaly, a broad forehead, frontal bossing, relatively elongated extremities, a vascular malignant hemangioma in anamnesis, and elongated sigmoid colon. aCGH revealed a microtriplication at 4q21.21‐q21.22 that was 1.61 Mb in size. This de novo microtriplication included nine genes (BMP3, PRKG2, RASGEF1B, HNRNPD, HNRPDL, ENOPH1, TMEM150C, LINC00575, and SCD5) and overlapped with the minimal critical region for 4q21 microdeletion syndrome. Some clinical features of the patient were similar to those of 4q21 microdeletion (macrocephaly, frontal bossing, developmental delay, absence of speech, and anxiety), whereas others were mirrored (elongated extremities and muscular hypertension). The first identified case of a de novo microtriplication at 4q21.21‐q21.22 emphasizes the clinical significance of CNVs at 4q21 for patients with developmental delay and absence of speech. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genotype–phenotype correlation and pregnancy outcomes of partial trisomy 14q: A systematic review
Authors: Bregand‐White Julia , Saller Devereux N. , Clemens Michele , Surti Urvashi , Yatsenko Svetlana A. , Rajkovic Aleksandar
Published: June 2016

Over the last decade, several advances in ultrasound techniques, increasing availability of whole genome microarray testing, and overall expansion of our knowledge about the human genome have drastically enhanced our ability to detect chromosomal abnormalities prenatally. Despite that, genotype–phenotype correlation is difficult to establish for many chromosomal aberrations, particularly for those that are rare, as it requires thorough analysis of a significant number of cases. This in turn increases the burden of the obstetric provider to appropriately counsel a patient regarding prognosis and pregnancy options in these complicated situations. Our experience in prenatal diagnosis and management of a fetus with multiple anomalies and partial trisomy for the 14q11–q24.2 prompted a comprehensive analysis of the relevant literature. Although complete non‐mosaic trisomy 14 is associated with first trimester miscarriages, partial trisomy 14q is a rare condition with undefined genotype–phenotype correlation, preventing accurate prenatal counseling, and informed decision making. We performed a systematic literature review, that aimed to summarize prenatal and postnatal findings of individual case reports on 51 patients with partial trisomy 14q in order to elucidate genotype–phenotype correlation, and to supply healthcare professionals with recommendation on essential fetal and parental testing for accurate diagnosis, pregnancy outcomes, and proper family counseling. Comparison of the clinical findings among the patients with partial 14q trisomy suggest that the resulting phenotype is likely to be influenced by the extent of the 14q trisomy segment, associated chromosomal imbalances, parental origin of the rearrangement, and dosage of the genes within the imprinted 14q32 cluster. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Temporal changes in chromosome abnormalities in human spontaneous abortions: Results of 40 years of analysis
Authors: Hardy Kathy , Hardy Philip J. , Jacobs Patricia A. , Lewallen Kevin , Hassold Terry J.
Published: June 2016

Studies during the past 50 years demonstrate the importance of chromosome abnormalities to the occurrence of early pregnancy loss in humans. Intriguingly, there appears to be considerable variation in the rates of chromosome abnormality, with more recent studies typically reporting higher levels than those reported in early studies of spontaneous abortions. We were interested in examining the basis for these differences and accordingly, we reviewed studies of spontaneous abortions conducted in our laboratories over a 40‐year‐time span. Our analyses confirm a higher rate of abnormality in more recent series of spontaneous abortions, but indicate that the effect is largely, if not entirely, attributable to changes over time in the maternal age structures of the study populations. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
4p16.3 microdeletions and microduplications detected by chromosomal microarray analysis: New insights into mechanisms and critical regions
Authors: Bi Weimin , Cheung Sau‐Wai , Breman Amy M. , Bacino Carlos A.
Published: June 2016

Deletions in the 4p16.3 region cause Wolf–Hirschhorn syndrome, a well known contiguous microdeletion syndrome with the critical region for common phenotype mapped in WHSCR2. Recently, duplications in 4p16.3 were reported in three patients with developmental delay and dysmorphic features. Through chromosomal microarray analysis, we identified 156 patients with a deletion (n = 109) or duplication (n = 47) in 4p16.3 out of approximately 60,000 patients analyzed by Baylor Miraca Genetics Laboratories. Seventy‐five of the postnatally detected deletions encompassed the entire critical region, 32 (43%) of which were associated with other chromosome rearrangements, including six patients (8%) that had a duplication adjacent to the terminal deletion. Our data indicate that Wolf–Hirschhorn syndrome deletions with an adjacent duplication occur at a higher frequency than previously appreciated. Pure deletions (n = 14) or duplications (n = 15) without other copy number changes distal to or inside the WHSCR2 were identified for mapping of critical regions. Our data suggest that deletion of the segment from 0.6 to 0.9 Mb from the terminus of 4p causes a seizure phenotype and duplications of a region distal to the previously defined smallest region of overlap for 4p16.3 microduplication syndrome are associated with neurodevelopmental problems. We detected seven Wolf–Hirschhorn syndrome deletions and one 4p16.3 duplication prenatally; all of the seven are either >8 Mb in size and/or associated with large duplications. In conclusion, our study provides deeper insight into the molecular mechanisms, the critical regions and effective prenatal diagnosis for 4p16.3 deletions/ duplications. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Acrylic bone cements modified with poly(ethylene glycol)‐based biocompatible phase‐change materials
Authors: Król Klaudia , Macherzyńska Beata , Pielichowska Kinga
Published: June 2016

The high polymerization temperature of acrylic bone cements used in hip replacement implantation may cause thermal necrosis of surrounding tissues. In order to reduce the polymerization temperature, acrylic bone cement has been modified with a biocompatible polymeric phase‐change material (PCM) based on poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) of different molecular weights and stabilized with potato starch. Structural and morphological studies were performed, and the thermal and mechanical properties were investigated. The incorporation of PEG‐based PCM led to a decrease in the polymerization temperature of bone cement from 70 °C for unmodified cement to 58 °C for modified cement. Modified cement materials were stable in incubation tests, although acoustic analysis data revealed a decrease in propagation speed after incubation, which indicates formation of material defects (pores, cracks, voids, etc.) due to water activity. However, in the regeneration process, these defects can be filled by freshly grown bone tissue leading to better incorporation of bone cement replacements into tissue. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43898.
Flame‐retardant properties and mechanisms of epoxy thermosets modified with two phosphorus‐containing phenolic amines
Authors: Wang Peng , Yang Fusheng , Li Liang , Cai Zaisheng
Published: June 2016

Two phosphorus‐containing phenolic amines, a 9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide (DOPO)‐based derivative (DAP) by covalently bonding DOPO and imine (SB) obtained from the condensation of p‐phenylenediamine with salicylaldehyde, and its analog (AP) via the addition reaction between diethyl phosphite and SB, were used to prepare flame‐retardant epoxy resins. The burning behaviors and dynamic mechanical properties of epoxy thermosets were studied by limited oxygen index (LOI) measurement, UL‐94 test, and dynamic mechanical analysis. The flame‐retardant mechanisms of modified thermosets were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis, Py‐GC/MS, Fourier transform infrared, SEM, elemental analysis, and laser Raman spectroscopy. The results revealed that epoxy thermoset modified with DAP displayed the blowing‐out effect during UL‐94 test. With the incorporation of 10 wt % DAP, the modified thermoset showed an LOI value of 36.1% and V‐0 rating in UL‐94 test. The flame‐retardant mechanism was ascribed to the quenching and diluting effect in the gas phase and the formation of phosphorus‐rich char layers in the condensed phase. However, the thermoset modified with 10 wt % AP only showed an LOI value of 25.7% and no rating in UL‐94 test, which was possibly ascribed to the mismatching of charring process with gas emission process during combustion. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43953.
Morphology and mechanical properties of natural rubber latex films modified by exfoliated Na‐montmorillonite/polyethyleneimine‐g‐poly (methyl methacrylate) nanocomposites
Authors: Wang Shuyi , Tian Xiaohui , Sun Jinyu , Liu Jin , Duan Junchao
Published: June 2016

Na‐montmorillonite/polyethyleneimine‐g‐poly(methyl methacrylate) (Na‐MMT/PEI‐g‐PMMA) nanocomposite latexes were prepared by soap‐free emulsion polymerization in the aqueous suspension of Na‐MMT. The exfoliated morphology of the nanocomposites was confirmed by XRD and TEM. With the aim of improving morphology and mechanical properties of natural rubber latex (NRL) films, the synthesized Na‐MMT/PEI‐g‐PMMA nanocomposites were mixed with NRL by latex compounding technology. The results of SEM and AFM analysis showed that the surface of NRL/Na‐MMT/PEI‐g‐PMMA film was smoother and denser than that of pristine NRL film while Na‐MMT was dispersed uniformly on the fracture surface of the modified films, which suggested the good compatibility between NRL and Na‐MMT/PEI‐g‐PMMA. The tensile strength of NRL/Na‐MMT/PEI‐g‐PMMA films was increased greatly by 85% with 10 phr Na‐MMT/PEI‐g‐PMMA when Na‐MMT content was 3 wt % and the elongation at break also increased from 930% to 1073% at the same time. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43961.
Numerical investigation of spinneret geometric effect on spinning dynamics of dry‐jet wet‐spinning of cellulose/[BMIM]Cl solution
Authors: Xia Xiaolin , Wang Jianning , Wang Huaping , Zhang Yumei
Published: June 2016

In this study, the effect of spinneret geometry, including the entrance angle α of the entrance channel, the length Ls, and the diameter D0 of the exit channel, on the spinning dynamics of dry‐jet wet‐spinning of cellulose/1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride ([BMIM]Cl) solution was simulated by using finite element method. Based on the mathematical model of dry‐jet wet‐spinning established in our previous work (Xia et al., Cellulose 2015, 22, 1963) the radial and axial profiles of velocity, pressure, and shear rate in the spinneret and the profiles of diameter, temperature, and tensile stress in the air‐gap region were obtained. From the simulated profiles, the effect of spinneret geometric parameters on the flow behavior and the pressure drop of polymer solution in the spinneret and the die‐swell ratio near the spinneret was discussed. The entrance angle α of the entrance channel mainly influences the flow behavior of polymer solution in the spinneret and the die‐swell effect near the spinneret. As the decrease of the entrance angle α of the entrance channel, the vortices in the spinneret could be removed and the die‐swell ratio decreases. The increase of the length Ls of the exit channel results in the increase of pressure drop in the spinneret and the decrease of the die‐swell ratio. It is also found that the increase of the diameter D0 of the exit channel reduces the flow velocity of polymer solution and decreases the pressure drop in the spinneret at a constant mass flow rate. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43962.
Producing high‐quality precursor polymer and fibers to achieve theoretical strength in carbon fibers: A review
Authors: Kaur Jasjeet , Millington Keith , Smith Shaun
Published: June 2016

The precursor fiber quality has a large impact on carbon fiber processing in terms of its performance, production yield, and cost. Polyacrylonitrile precursor fibers have been used commercially to produce strong carbon fibers with average tensile strength of 6.6 GPa. There is a scope to improve the average tensile strength of carbon fibers, since only 10% of their theoretical strength has been achieved thus far. Most attempts to increase the tensile strength of carbon fibers have been made during the conversion of precursor fiber to carbon fiber. This review highlights the potential opportunities to enhance the quality of the polyacrylonitrile‐based precursor fiber during polymer synthesis, spinning, and postspinning. These high‐quality precursor fibers can lead to new generation carbon fibers with improved tensile strength for high‐performance applications. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2016,133, 43963.
Chemorheological time‐temperature‐transformation‐viscosity diagram: Foamed EPDM rubber compound
Authors: Restrepo‐Zapata Nora Catalina , Eagleburger Ben , Saari Travis , Osswald Tim A , Hernández‐Ortiz Juan Pablo
Published: June 2016

Thermal analysis, rheometry, and kinetic modeling are used to generate a comprehensive processability diagram for thermosetting and elastomeric resins. A chemorheological “time‐temperature‐transformation‐viscosity” diagram is proposed to fully characterize curing reactions toward process' on‐line control, optimization, and material design. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric techniques are used to measure total reaction heat, degree of vulcanization, and cure kinetics. The viscosity, as a function of temperature and cure degree, is obtained from parallel plate rheometry. The auto‐catalytic Kamal–Sourour model, including a diffusion‐control mechanism, is used to model cure kinetics, while the Castro–Macosko model serves to model the rheological behavior. Non‐linear least‐squares regression and numerical integration are used to find models' parameters and to construct the chemorheological diagram. The usefulness of the proposed methodology is illustrated in the context of an industrial‐like Ethylene Propylene Diene Termononer rubber compound that includes a chemical blowing agent. Even though the rubber formulation contains crosslinking agents, primary and secondary accelerators, promoters, activators, and processing aids, the chemorheological diagram is obtained consistently, validating the proposed methodology to any thermosetting or elastomeric resin. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43966.
Influence of cure conditions on out‐of‐autoclave bismaleimide composite laminates
Authors: Anandan Sudharshan , Dhaliwal Gurjot S. , Samaranayake V. A. , Chandrashekhara K. , Berkel Thomas R. , Pfitzinger Doug
Published: June 2016

Bismaleimides (BMI) are thermosetting polymers that are widely used in the aerospace industry due to their good physical properties at elevated temperatures and humid environments. BMI‐based composites are used as a replacement for conventional epoxy resins at higher service temperatures. Out‐of‐Autoclave (OOA) processing of BMI composites is similar to that of epoxies but requires higher cure temperatures. Polymer properties such as degree of cure and crosslink density are dependent on the cure cycle used. These properties affect mechanical strength as well as glass transition temperature of the composite. In the current research, carbon fiber/BMI composite laminates were manufactured by OOA processing. The void content was measured using acid digestion techniques. The influence of cure cycle variations on glass transition temperature and mechanical strength was investigated. Properties of manufactured specimens were compared with that of conventional autoclave cured BMI composites. Laminates fabricated via OOA processing exhibited properties comparable to that of autoclave cured composites. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43984.
Land Inequality or Productivity: What Mattered in Southern Vietnam after 1975?
Authors: Bui Minh‐Tam T. , Preechametta Arayah
Published: June 2016

Land redistribution and agricultural collective production were the key components of agrarian reforms implemented by the Vietnamese Communist Party in the south of the country after 1975. Land inequality was serious in the region under the Republic of Vietnam's regime. The new government struggled with agricultural collectivisation contributing to the decline in rice productivity. This study explains the persistence of a market‐based agricultural production in the southern economy under the new political regime. Beside the economic reasons and arguments of local peasants' everyday politics cited in the literature, we argue that the de facto political power of the middle‐class landowners was an important factor impeding the performance of agricultural cooperatives. It also implies that agricultural productivity was more vital than land inequality during the study period. We apply the model of Acemoglu and Robinson explaining how de facto political power helps elites to maintain their economic institutions in spite of a political change.
Prosperity, Sustainability and the Measurement of Wealth
Authors: Mumford Kevin J.
Published: June 2016

Gross domestic product (GDP) and household income measures provide invaluable metrics of economic activity in an economy, but they tell us little about the sustainability of the economic trends. National wealth accounting can be utilised to determine the size of the underlying productive base, which provides insight into the sustainability of economic activities and indicates the potential for intergenerational well‐being. An empirical methodology was developed to measure wealth and then used to analyse multiple Asian countries. A common theme found across the Asian countries was the depletion of natural capital (forests, minerals and energy) and the development of human and produced capital. A strong correlation between growth in GDP per capita and wealth per capita was also found, but there are instances of GDP growth and wealth growth having different signs.
Nongovernmental Organizations and Influence on Global Public Policy
Authors: Tortajada Cecilia
Published: June 2016

Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) were once considered as altruistic groups which aim was to impartially influence public policy with no vested interests. Nevertheless, this perception has changed. They are increasingly perceived as groups that prioritize their own ideologies or that respond to the interests of their donors, patrons, and members rather than to those of the groups they represent. This article discusses the politics of NGOs in the present changing globalized world as agents concerned with social and environmental change as much as with their own causes. It argues that numerous NGOs are as much a part of national and international politics as any other interest group and that their practices and activities are not always in the search of a good society or the common good.
Take‐off, Persistence and Sustainability: The Demographic Factor in Chinese Growth
Authors: Cai Fang , Lu Yang
Published: June 2016

With the reduction of the working‐age population and the increase of the population dependency ratio as the main indicators of the diminishing demographic dividend, China's potential growth rate is decreasing. Our results suggest that the demographic dividend contributed to nearly one fourth of the economic growth in China in the past three decades, while total factor productive growth explains another third and capital accumulation explaining the remaining growth (nearly half). China's potential growth rate will continue to slow—it was nearly 10 per cent during 1980–2010 but 6.65 per cent on average during 2016–2020—because of the diminishing demographic dividend, but reform measures are conductive to clearing the institutional barriers to the supply of factors and productivity, buffering the potential growth rate. The aggregate reform dividend could reach to 1–2 per cent on average during 2016–2050.
Effects of 1950 MHz W‐CDMA‐like signal on human spermatozoa
Authors: Nakatani‐Enomoto Setsu , Okutsu Miho , Suzuki Satoshi , Suganuma Ryota , Groiss Stefan Jun , Kadowaki Suguru , Enomoto Hiroyuki , Fujimori Keiya , Ugawa Yoshikazu
Published: June 2016

There are growing concerns about how electromagnetic waves (EMW) emitted from mobile phones affect human spermatozoa. Several experiments have suggested harmful effects of EMW on human sperm quality, motility, velocity, or the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) of spermatozoa. In this study, we analyzed the effects on human spermatozoa (sperm motility and kinetic variables) induced by 1 h of exposure to 1950 MHz Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (W‐CDMA)‐like EMW with specific absorption rates of either 2.0 or 6.0 W/kg, using a computer‐assisted sperm analyzer system. We also measured the percentage of 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) positive spermatozoa with flow cytometry to evaluate damage to DNA. No significant differences were observed between the EMW exposure and the sham exposure in sperm motility, kinetic variables, or 8‐OHdG levels. We conclude that W‐CDMA‐like exposure for 1 h under temperature‐controlled conditions has no detectable effect on normal human spermatozoa. Differences in exposure conditions, humidity, temperature control, baseline sperm characteristics, and age of donors may explain inconsistency of our results with several previous studies. Bioelectromagnetics. 37:373–381, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evidence for a quadruplex structure in the polymorphic hs1.2 enhancer of the immunoglobulin heavy chain 3’ regulatory regions and its conservation in mammals
Authors: Sette Marco , D'Addabbo Pietro , Kelly Geoffrey , Cicconi Alessandro , Micheli Emanuela , Cacchione Stefano , Poma Anna , Gargioli Cesare , Giambra Vincenzo , Frezza Domenico
Published: June 2016

Regulatory regions in the genome can act through a variety of mechanisms that range from the occurrence of histone modifications to the presence of protein‐binding loci for self‐annealing sequences. The final result is often the induction of a conformational change of the DNA double helix, which alters the accessibility of a region to transcription factors and consequently gene expression. A ∼300 kb regulatory region on chromosome 14 at the 3' end (3'RR) of immunoglobulin (Ig) heavy‐chain genes shows very peculiar features, conserved in mammals, including enhancers and transcription factor binding sites. In primates, the 3'RR is present in two copies, both having a central enhancer named hs1.2. We previously demonstrated the association between different hs1.2 alleles and Ig plasma levels in immunopathology. Here, we present the analysis of a putative G‐quadruplex structure (tetraplex) consensus site embedded in a variable number tandem repeat (one to four copies) of hs1.2 that is a distinctive element among the enhancer alleles, and an investigation of its three‐dimensional structure using bioinformatics and spectroscopic approaches. We suggest that both the role of the enhancer and the alternative effect of the hs1.2 alleles may be achieved through their peculiar three‐dimensional‐conformational rearrangement. © 2017 The Authors Biopolymers Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 105: 768–778, 2016.
Solvation driven conformational transitions in the second transmembrane domain of mycobacteriophage holin
Authors: Lella Muralikrishna , Mahalakshmi Radhakrishnan
Published: June 2016

Holins are pore‐forming membrane proteins synthesized by lytic phages. The second transmembrane domain (TM2) of Mycobacteriophage D29 holin presents an Ala‐ and Gly‐rich sequence, with a currently unknown structure and function. In this study, we present the spectroscopic characterization of synthetic TM2 in various solvents, detergents, and lipids. We find that TM2 adopts α‐helical conformation under conditions that promote intra‐strand hydrogen bonding, such as organic solvents and detergent micelles. When we transfer the peptide to a well‐hydrated environment, a polyproline II‐like structure is obtained. Surprisingly, we find that the polyproline II–like conformation is retained in lipid vesicles. Based on our results, we present a putative role for TM2 in the process of pore formation by holin. © 2016 The Authors. Peptide Science Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 108: 1–10, 2017.