bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Numerical and Experimental Investigation of Period-n Bifurcations in Milling
Authors: Honeycutt Andrew , Schmitz Tony
Published: July 2016

Numerical and experimental analyses of milling bifurcations, or instabilities, are detailed. The time-delay equations of motions that describe milling behavior are solved numerically and once-per-tooth period sampling is used to generate Poincaré maps. These maps are subsequently used to study the stability behavior, including period-n bifurcations. Once-per-tooth period sampling is also used to generate bifurcation diagrams and stability maps. The numerical studies are combined with experiments, where milling vibration amplitudes are measured for both stable and unstable conditions. The vibration signals are sampled once-per-tooth period to construct experimental Poincaré maps and bifurcation diagrams. The results are compared to numerical stability predictions. The sensitivity of milling bifurcations to changes in natural frequency and damping is also predicted and observed.
A Foil-Based Additive Manufacturing Technology for Metal Parts
Authors: Chen Chen , Shen Yiyu , Tsai Hai-Lung
Published: July 2016

In this paper, the method, system setup, and procedure of a new additive manufacturing (AM) technology for manufacturing three-dimensional (3D) metal parts are introduced. Instead of using metal powders as in most commercial AM technologies, the new method uses metal foils as feed stock. The procedure consists of two alternating processes: foil-welding by a high-power continuous-wave (CW) laser and foil-cutting by a Q-switched ultraviolet (UV) laser. The foil-welding process involves two subprocesses: laser spot welding and laser raster-scan welding. The reason for using two lasers is to achieve simultaneously the high-speed and high-precision manufacturing. The results on laser foil-welding and foil-cutting show that complete and strong welding bonds can be achieved with determined parameters, and that clean and no-burr/distortion cut of foil can be obtained. Several 3D AISI 1010 steel parts fabricated by the proposed AM technology are presented, and the microhardness and tensile strength of the as-fabricated parts are both significantly greater than those of the original foil.
Design of a Multi-Arm Surgical Robotic System for Dexterous Manipulation
Authors: Li Zhi , Milutinović Dejan , Rosen Jacob
Published: July 2016

Surgical procedures are traditionally performed by two or more surgeons along with staff nurses: one serves as the primary surgeon and the other as his/her assistant. Introducing surgical robots into the operating room has significantly changed the dynamics of interaction between the surgeons and with the surgical site. In this paper, we design a surgical robotic system to support the collaborative operation of multiple surgeons. This Raven IV surgical robotic system has two pairs of articulated robotic arms with a spherical configuration, each arm holding an articulated surgical tool. It allows two surgeons to teleoperate the Raven IV system collaboratively from two remote sites. To optimize the mechanism design of the Raven IV system, we configure the link architecture of each robotic arm, along with the position and orientation of the four bases and the port placement with respect to the patient's body. The optimization considers seven different parameters, which results in 2.3×1010 system configurations. We optimize the common workspace and the manipulation dexterity of each robotic arm. We study here the effect of each individual parameter and conduct a brute force search to find the optimal set of parameters. The parameters for the optimized configuration result in an almost circular common workspace with a radius of 150 mm, accessible to all four arms.
Parameterizing Compact and Extensible Compressor Models Using Orthogonal Distance Minimization
Authors: Llamas Xavier , Eriksson Lars
Published: July 2016

A complete and compact control-oriented compressor model consisting of a mass flow submodel and an efficiency submodel is described. The final application of the model is a complete two-stroke mean value engine model (MVEM) which requires simulating the compressor operating at the low-flow and low-pressure ratio area. The model is based on previous research done for automotive-size compressors, and it is shown to be general enough to adapt well to the characteristics of the marine-size compressors. A physics-based efficiency model allows, together with the mass flow model, extrapolating to low-pressure ratios. The complexity of the model makes its parameterization a difficult task; hence, a method to efficiently estimate the 19 model parameters is proposed. The method computes analytic model gradients and uses them to minimize the orthogonal distances between the modeled speed lines (SpLs) and the measured points. The results of the parameter estimation are tested against nine different standard marine-size maps showing good agreement with the measured data. Furthermore, the results also show the importance of estimating the parameters of the mass flow and efficiency submodels at the same time to obtain an accurate model. The extrapolation capabilities to low-load regions are also tested using low-load measurements from an automotive-size compressor. It is shown that the model follows the measured efficiency trend down to low loads.
Influence of Main Swirler Vane Angle on the Ignition Performance of TeLESS-II Combustor
Authors: Wang Bo , Zhang Chi , Lin Yuzhen , Hui Xin , Li Jibao
Published: July 2016

In order to balance the low emission and wide stabilization for lean premixed prevaporized (LPP) combustion, the centrally staged layout is preferred in advanced aero-engine combustors. However, compared with the conventional combustor, it is more difficult for the centrally staged combustor to light up as the main stage air layer will prevent the pilot fuel droplets arriving at igniter tip. The goal of the present paper is to study the effect of the main stage air on the ignition of the centrally staged combustor. Two cases of the main swirler vane angle of the TeLESS-II combustor, 20 deg and 30 deg are researched. The ignition results at room inlet temperature and pressure show that the ignition performance of the 30 deg vane angle case is better than that of the 20 deg vane angle case. High-speed camera, planar laser induced fluorescence (PLIF), and computational fluids dynamics (CFD) are used to better understand the ignition results. The high-speed camera has recorded the ignition process, indicated that an initial kernel forms just adjacent the liner wall after the igniter is turned on, the kernel propagates along the radial direction to the combustor center and begins to grow into a big flame, and then it spreads to the exit of the pilot stage, and eventually stabilizes the flame. CFD of the cold flow field coupled with spray field is conducted. A verification of the CFD method has been applied with PLIF measurement, and the simulation results can qualitatively represent the experimental data in terms of fuel distribution. The CFD results show that the radial dimensions of the primary recirculation zone of the two cases are very similar, and the dominant cause of the different ignition results is the vapor distribution of the fuel. The concentration of kerosene vapor of the 30 deg vane angle case is much larger than that of the 20 deg vane angle case close to the igniter tip and along the propagation route of the kernel, therefore, the 30 deg vane angle case has a better ignition performance. For the consideration of the ignition performance, a larger main swirler vane angle of 30 deg is suggested for the better fuel distribution when designing a centrally staged combustor.
Teaching Sport Psychology for Now and the Future? The Psychological UNIFORM with High School Varsity Athletes
Authors: Gilbert Jenelle N. , Moore-Reed Stephanie D. , Clifton Alexandra M.
Published: July 2016

Adolescent athletes can use psychological skills immediately after being taught, but a dearth of empirical evidence exists regarding whether these skills are maintained over time. A 12-week curriculum (i.e., UNIFORM; Gilbert, 2011) was taught to a high school varsity soccer team with three data collection points: pretest, posttest, 4-week follow-up. Use of several skills was significantly greater posttest compared with pretest as measured by the Test of Performance Strategies (Thomas, Murphy, & Hardy, 1999). Follow-up results were also salient. Relaxation, imagery, and self-talk use in practice was significantly greater than pretest at follow-up; relaxation, imagery, goal setting, and self-talk in competition showed similar results. Descriptive statistics and qualitative data triangulate these results. The UNIFORM curriculum enabled the athletes to use the skills more consistently. This study makes a contribution by measuring the skills at follow-up and providing evidence of their continued use four weeks after the curriculum’s conclusion.
Are Career Termination Concerns Only for Athletes? A Case Study of the Career Termination of an Elite Female Coach
Authors: Kenttä Göran , Mellalieu Stephen , Roberts Claire-Marie
Published: July 2016

This paper presents a case study of an elite female coach and her career termination from a 20+ year career following a critical life incident. A novel autobiographical approach was adopted whereby the participant undertook expressive writing to describe her experiences before, during, and following coaching an athlete at the 2012 Summer Olympic Games. Thematic analysis indicated seven phases related to the participant’s experiences of the critical incident: Build up to the event, the event, the aftermath, recovery and reflection on the event, sampling of new avenues, enlightenment, and career rebirth. The findings reinforce the high demands placed upon elite coaches, the subsequent threats to physical and mental well-being, and the importance of having robust psychological skills and suitable social support to cope with these demands. Implications for preparing and supporting coaches for successful career transition are discussed.
Global trends in satellite-based emergency mapping
Authors: Voigt Stefan , Giulio-Tonolo Fabio , Lyons Josh , Kučera Jan , Jones Brenda , Schneiderhan Tobias , Platzeck Gabriel , Kaku Kazuya , Hazarika Manzul Kumar , Czaran Lorant , Li Suju , Pedersen Wendi , James Godstime Kadiri , Proy Catherine , Muthike Denis Macharia , Bequignon Jerome , Guha-Sapir Debarati
Published: July 2016

Over the past 15 years, scientists and disaster responders have increasingly used satellite-based Earth observations for global rapid assessment of disaster situations. We review global trends in satellite rapid response and emergency mapping from 2000 to 2014, analyzing more than 1000 incidents in which satellite monitoring was used for assessing major disaster situations. We provide a synthesis of spatial patterns and temporal trends in global satellite emergency mapping efforts and show that satellite-based emergency mapping is most intensively deployed in Asia and Europe and follows well the geographic, physical, and temporal distributions of global natural disasters. We present an outlook on the future use of Earth observation technology for disaster response and mitigation by putting past and current developments into context and perspective.
Ocean forcing of glacier retreat in the western Antarctic Peninsula
Authors: Cook A. J. , Holland P. R. , Meredith M. P. , Murray T. , Luckman A. , Vaughan D. G.
Published: July 2016

The heat is on

Rising surface air temperatures are understood to cause glacial melting, but it is becoming increasingly clear that the ocean also has a strong impact. Cook
et al.
studied glaciers that drain the Antarctic Peninsula and found a strong correlation between mid-depth ocean temperatures and glacier-front changes along the peninsula's western coastline. Glaciers in the south, which are exposed to warmer waters, have undergone significant retreat, while those in the northwest, which terminate in cooler waters, have not retreated as much or as uniformly. Thus, ocean-induced melting appears to be the main cause of glacial retreat in the region.

Science
, this issue p.
283
Structural basis for integration of GluD receptors within synaptic organizer complexes
Authors: Elegheert Jonathan , Kakegawa Wataru , Clay Jordan E. , Shanks Natalie F. , Behiels Ester , Matsuda Keiko , Kohda Kazuhisa , Miura Eriko , Rossmann Maxim , Mitakidis Nikolaos , Motohashi Junko , Chang Veronica T. , Siebold Christian , Greger Ingo H. , Nakagawa Terunaga , Yuzaki Michisuke , Aricescu A. Radu
Published: July 2016

Transmitting signals across the synapse

Glutamate receptors located on neuronal cells play a role in mediating electrical signals at excitatory synapses. These glutamatergic synapses are extremely important for nearly all cognitive functions. Elegheert
et al.
analyzed a complex that bridges the synapse, comprising β-neurexin 1, a cell adhesion molecule on the surface of presynaptic axons; cerebellin 1, a synaptic organizer; and the postsynaptic glutamate receptor GluD2. The structural and functional analysis provides insight into the mechanism of synaptic signaling.

Science
, this issue p.
295
Has land use pushed terrestrial biodiversity beyond the planetary boundary? A global assessment
Authors: Newbold Tim , Hudson Lawrence N. , Arnell Andrew P. , Contu Sara , De Palma Adriana , Ferrier Simon , Hill Samantha L. L. , Hoskins Andrew J. , Lysenko Igor , Phillips Helen R. P. , Burton Victoria J. , Chng Charlotte W. T. , Emerson Susan , Gao Di , Pask-Hale Gwilym , Hutton Jon , Jung Martin , Sanchez-Ortiz Katia , Simmons Benno I. , Whitmee Sarah , Zhang Hanbin , Scharlemann Jörn P. W. , Purvis Andy
Published: July 2016

Crossing “safe” limits for biodiversity loss

The planetary boundaries framework attempts to set limits for biodiversity loss within which ecological function is relatively unaffected. Newbold
et al.
present a quantitative global analysis of the extent to which the proposed planetary boundary has been crossed (see the Perspective by Oliver). Using over 2 million records for nearly 40,000 terrestrial species, they modeled the response of biodiversity to land use and related pressures and then estimated, at a spatial resolution of ∼1 km
2
, the extent and spatial patterns of changes in local biodiversity. Across 65% of the terrestrial surface, land use and related pressures have caused biotic intactness to decline beyond 10%, the proposed “safe” planetary boundary. Changes have been most pronounced in grassland biomes and biodiversity hotspots.

Science
, this issue p.
288
; see also p.
220
Return to quiescence of mouse neural stem cells by degradation of a proactivation protein
Authors: Urbán Noelia , van den Berg Debbie L. C. , Forget Antoine , Andersen Jimena , Demmers Jeroen A. A. , Hunt Charles , Ayrault Olivier , Guillemot François
Published: July 2016

Sending neural stem cells back to the garage

In the brain's hippocampus, which modulates memories and emotions, neural stem
cells generate new neurons, even during adulthood. How many new neurons are
generated, and when, follows from the balance between quiescence and
proliferation in the pool of neural stem cells. Urbán
et
al.
asked what signals send proliferating stem cells back into a
quiescent state. They found that a key transcription factor that promotes
cellular proliferation was degraded through the ubiquitinylation system. This
molecular interaction regulated the return to a resting state, but one that was
not quite as quiescent as the original state. Stem cells in this resting but
primed state sustained the stem cell pool.

Science
, this issue p.
292
Human influence on tropical cyclone intensity
Authors: Sobel Adam H. , Camargo Suzana J. , Hall Timothy M. , Lee Chia-Ying , Tippett Michael K. , Wing Allison A.
Published: July 2016

Recent assessments agree that tropical cyclone intensity should increase as the climate warms. Less agreement exists on the detection of recent historical trends in tropical cyclone intensity. We interpret future and recent historical trends by using the theory of potential intensity, which predicts the maximum intensity achievable by a tropical cyclone in a given local environment. Although greenhouse gas–driven warming increases potential intensity, climate model simulations suggest that aerosol cooling has largely canceled that effect over the historical record. Large natural variability complicates analysis of trends, as do poleward shifts in the latitude of maximum intensity. In the absence of strong reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, future greenhouse gas forcing of potential intensity will increasingly dominate over aerosol forcing, leading to substantially larger increases in tropical cyclone intensities.
How much biodiversity loss is too much?
Authors: Oliver Tom H.
Published: July 2016

Widespread biodiversity losses are observed but safe-limit thresholds remain uncertain
An miRNA-mediated therapy for SCA6 blocks IRES-driven translation of the
CACNA1A
second cistron
Authors: Miyazaki Yu , Du Xiaofei , Muramatsu Shin-ichi , Gomez Christopher M.
Published: July 2016

Selective translational blockade of the
CACNA1A
second cistron using miRNAs may have potential for treating spinocerebellar ataxia type 6.
EZH2 drives and defines an epigenetic subclass of lung cancer
Authors: Beltran Himisha
Published: July 2016

Overexpression of EZH2 causes lung adenocarcinoma in murine models, and these tumors are sensitive to EZH2 inhibition.
Continuous and Prolonged Intravenous β-Lactam Dosing: Implications for the Clinical Laboratory
Authors: Grupper Mordechai , Kuti Joseph L. , Nicolau David P.
Published: July 2016

Beta-lactam antibiotics serve as a cornerstone in the management of bacterial infections because of their wide spectrum of activity and low toxicity. Since resistance rates among bacteria are continuously on the rise and the pipeline for new antibiotics does not meet this trend, an optimization of current beta-lactam treatment is needed. This review provides an overview of optimization through use of prolonged- and continuous-infusion dosing strategies compared with more traditional intermittent infusions. Included is an overview of the scientific basis for using these nontraditional prolonged- and continuous-infusion-based regimens, with a focus on major areas in which the clinical laboratory can support the clinical use of these regimens.
Automatic Digital Analysis of Chromogenic Media for Vancomycin-Resistant-Enterococcus Screens Using Copan WASPLab
Authors: Faron Matthew L. , Buchan Blake W. , Coon Christopher , Liebregts Theo , van Bree Anita , Jansz Arjan R. , Soucy Genevieve , Korver John , Ledeboer Nathan A.
Published: July 2016

Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) are an important cause of health care-acquired infections (HAIs). Studies have shown that active surveillance of high-risk patients for VRE colonization can aid in reducing HAIs; however, these screens generate a significant cost to the laboratory and health care system. Digital imaging capable of differentiating negative and “nonnegative” chromogenic agar can reduce the labor cost of these screens and potentially improve patient care. In this study, we evaluated the performance of the WASPLab Chromogenic Detection Module (CDM) (Copan, Brescia, Italy) software to analyze VRE chromogenic agar and compared the results to technologist plate reading. Specimens collected at 3 laboratories were cultured using the WASPLab CDM and plated to each site's standard-of-care chromogenic media, which included Colorex VRE (BioMed Diagnostics, White City, OR) or Oxoid VRE (Oxoid, Basingstoke, United Kingdom). Digital images were scored using the CDM software after 24 or 40 h of growth, and all manual reading was performed using digital images on a high-definition (HD) monitor. In total, 104,730 specimens were enrolled and automation agreed with manual analysis for 90.1% of all specimens tested, with sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 89.5%, respectively. Automation results were discordant for 10,348 specimens, and all discordant images were reviewed by a laboratory supervisor or director. After a second review, 499 specimens were identified as representing missed positive cultures falsely called negative by the technologist, 1,616 were identified as containing borderline color results (negative result but with no package insert color visible), and 8,234 specimens were identified as containing colorimetric pigmentation due to residual matrix from the specimen or yeast (
Candida
). Overall, the CDM was accurate at identifying negative VRE plates, which comprised 84% (87,973) of the specimens in this study.
Evaluation of Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry for Identification of KPC-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Gaibani Paolo , Galea Anna , Fagioni Marco , Ambretti Simone , Sambri Vittorio , Landini Maria Paola
Published: July 2016

We evaluated a real-time single-peak (11.109-Da) detection assay based on matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) for the identification of
Klebsiella pneumoniae
carbapenemase (KPC)-producing
K. pneumoniae
. Our results demonstrated that the 11.109-Da peak was detected in 88.2% of the KPC producers. Analysis of
bla
KPC
-producing
K. pneumoniae
showed that the gene encoding the 11.109-Da protein was commonly (97.8%) associated with the Tn
4401
a isoform.
Poliovirus Polymerase Leu420 Facilitates RNA Recombination and Ribavirin Resistance
Authors: Kempf Brian J. , Peersen Olve B. , Barton David J.
Published: July 2016

RNA recombination is important in the formation of picornavirus species groups and the ongoing evolution of viruses within species groups. In this study, we examined the structure and function of poliovirus polymerase, 3D
pol
, as it relates to RNA recombination. Recombination occurs when nascent RNA products exchange one viral RNA template for another during RNA replication. Because recombination is a natural aspect of picornavirus replication, we hypothesized that some features of 3D
pol
may exist, in part, to facilitate RNA recombination. Furthermore, we reasoned that alanine substitution mutations that disrupt 3D
pol
-RNA interactions within the polymerase elongation complex might increase and/or decrease the magnitudes of recombination. We found that an L420A mutation in 3D
pol
decreased the frequency of RNA recombination, whereas alanine substitutions at other sites in 3D
pol
increased the frequency of recombination. The 3D
pol
Leu420 side chain interacts with a ribose in the nascent RNA product 3 nucleotides from the active site of the polymerase. Notably, the L420A mutation that reduced recombination also rendered the virus more susceptible to inhibition by ribavirin, coincident with the accumulation of ribavirin-induced G→A and C→U mutations in viral RNA. We conclude that 3D
pol
Leu420 is critically important for RNA recombination and that RNA recombination contributes to ribavirin resistance.

IMPORTANCE
Recombination contributes to the formation of picornavirus species groups and the emergence of circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses (cVDPVs). The recombinant viruses that arise in nature are occasionally more fit than either parental strain, especially when the two partners in recombination are closely related, i.e., members of characteristic species groups, such as enterovirus species groups A to H or rhinovirus species groups A to C. Our study shows that RNA recombination requires conserved features of the viral polymerase. Furthermore, a polymerase mutation that disables recombination renders the virus more susceptible to the antiviral drug ribavirin, suggesting that recombination contributes to ribavirin resistance. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms of RNA replication and recombination may help mankind achieve and maintain poliovirus eradication.
Relative Contributions of Herpes Simplex Virus 1 ICP0 and vhs to Loss of Cellular IFI16 Vary in Different Human Cell Types
Authors: Orzalli Megan H. , Broekema Nicole M. , Knipe David M.
Published: July 2016

The herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) ICP0 protein is an E3 ubiquitin ligase that promotes the degradation of several host cell proteins. Most studies have found that ICP0 promotes the loss of IFI16 in infected cells, but one study reported that ICP0 was not necessary or sufficient for loss of IFI16 in a tumor-derived cell line. Therefore, in this study, we examined the requirement for ICP0 in promoting the loss of IFI16 in several normal and tumor-derived cell lines. HSV-1 infection resulted in an observable decrease of IFI16 protein levels in normal human foreskin fibroblasts (HFFs), normal oral keratinocytes (NOKs), and HeLa cells but not in U2OS cells. During infection with an ICP0-null virus, we observed a reduced loss of IFI16 in HFFs and NOKs but not in HeLa cells. Ectopic expression of ICP0 from a transfected plasmid was sufficient to promote the loss of IFI16 in HFFs and NOKs. In the absence of ICP0, we observed a delayed reduction of IFI16 protein that correlated with a reduction in the steady-state levels of
IFI16
mRNA. In addition, we show that the ICP0-independent loss of IFI16 in HeLa cells is dependent in part on the activity of the viral virion host shutoff (vhs) tegument protein. Together, these results demonstrate that HSV-1 promotes the loss of IFI16 through at least two mechanisms: (i) by ICP0-dependent degradation of IFI16 and (ii) by vhs-dependent turnover of
IFI16
mRNA. In addition, this study highlights a potential intrinsic difference between normal and tumor-derived cells for the activities of IFI16 and HSV-1 ICP0.

IMPORTANCE
HSV-1 is a ubiquitous virus that establishes a lifetime persistent infection in humans. The relative success of HSV-1 as a pathogen is, in part, dependent on the expression of viral proteins that counteract host intrinsic defense mechanisms and that modulate immune responses during viral infection. In this study, we examined the relative roles of two viral gene products for the ability to promote loss of the antiviral IFI16 DNA sensor. We demonstrate that the viral immediate early ICP0 protein plays a dominant role in the loss of IFI16 in normal, but not tumor-derived, human cell lines. In contrast, viral vhs-mediated loss of IFI16 by mRNA destabilization is revealed to be dominant in tumor-derived cells in which ICP0 is nonfunctional. Together, these results contribute to our understanding of how HSV-1 modulates IFI16 protein levels and highlight cell-type-dependent differences between normal and tumor-derived cells.
Myristoylation of the Arenavirus Envelope Glycoprotein Stable Signal Peptide Is Critical for Membrane Fusion but Dispensable for Virion Morphogenesis
Authors: York Joanne , Nunberg Jack H.
Published: July 2016

Arenaviruses are responsible for severe and often fatal hemorrhagic disease. In the absence of effective antiviral therapies and vaccines, these viruses pose serious threats to public health and biodefense. Arenaviruses enter the host cell by fusion of the viral and endosomal membranes, a process mediated by the virus envelope glycoprotein GPC. Unlike other class I viral fusion proteins, GPC retains its stable signal peptide (SSP) as an essential third subunit in the mature complex. SSP spans the membrane twice and is myristoylated at its cytoplasmic N terminus. Mutations that abolish SSP myristoylation have been shown to reduce pH-induced cell-cell fusion activity of ectopically expressed GPC to ∼20% of wild-type levels. In order to examine the role of SSP myristoylation in the context of the intact virus, we used reverse genetics to generate Junín viruses (Candid #1 isolate) in which the critical glycine-2 residue in SSP was either replaced by alanine (G2A) or deleted (ΔG2). These mutant viruses produced smaller foci of infection in Vero cells and showed an ∼5-fold reduction in specific infectivity, commensurate with the defect in cell-cell fusion. However, virus assembly and GPC incorporation into budded virions were unaffected. Our findings suggest that the myristate moiety is cryptically disposed in the prefusion GPC complex and may function late in the fusion process to promote merging of the viral and cellular membranes.

IMPORTANCE
Hemorrhagic fever arenaviruses pose significant threats to public health and biodefense. Arenavirus entry into the host cell is promoted by the virus envelope glycoprotein GPC. Unlike other viral envelope glycoproteins, GPC contains a myristoylated stable signal peptide (SSP) as an essential third subunit. Myristoylation has been shown to be important for the membrane fusion activity of recombinantly expressed GPC. Here, we use reverse genetics to study the role of SSP myristoylation in the context of the intact virion. We find that nonmyristoylated GPC mutants of the Candid #1 strain of Junín virus display a commensurate deficiency in their infectivity, albeit without additional defects in virion assembly and budding. These results suggest that SSP myristoylation may function late in the fusion process to facilitate merging of the viral and cellular membranes. Antiviral agents that target this novel aspect of GPC membrane fusion may be useful in the treatment of arenavirus hemorrhagic fevers.
Linking e-health records, patient-reported symptoms and environmental exposure data to characterise and model COPD exacerbations: protocol for the COPE study
Authors: Moore Elizabeth , Chatzidiakou Lia , Jones Roderic L , Smeeth Liam , Beevers Sean , Kelly Frank J , K Quint Jennifer , Barratt Benjamin
Published: July 2016

Introduction

Relationships between exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and environmental factors such as temperature, humidity and air pollution are not well characterised, due in part to oversimplification in the assignment of exposure estimates to individuals and populations. New developments in miniature environmental sensors mean that patients can now carry a personal air quality monitor for long periods of time as they go about their daily lives. This creates the potential for capturing a direct link between individual activities, environmental exposures and the health of patients with COPD. Direct associations then have the potential to be scaled up to population levels and tested using advanced human exposure models linked to electronic health records.

Methods and analysis

This study has 5 stages: (1) development and deployment of personal air monitors; (2) recruitment and monitoring of a cohort of 160 patients with COPD for up to 6 months with recruitment of participants through the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD); (3) statistical associations between personal exposure with COPD-related health outcomes; (4) validation of a time-activity exposure model and (5) development of a COPD prediction model for London.

Ethics and dissemination

The Research Ethics Committee for Camden and Islington has provided ethical approval for the conduct of the study. Approval has also been granted by National Health Service (NHS) Research and Development and the Independent Scientific Advisory Committee. The results of the study will be disseminated through appropriate conference presentations and peer-reviewed journals.
Anaesthetic management for caesarean sections in dogs and cats
Authors: Robertson Sheilah
Published: July 2016

In dogs and cats, a caesarean section can be performed for many reasons – including maternal‐fetal disproportion and uterine inertia – as an elective or emergency procedure. Several different surgical techniques have been described and the dam may undergo an ovariohysterectomy at the same time. Regardless of the situation, the outcome for both the dam and the offspring should be positive if there is an understanding of the physiological changes that occur during pregnancy and their impact on anaesthetic management, good preparation before the procedure and a neonatal resuscitation protocol in place. This article outlines the physiological changes that have the greatest impact on anaesthetic management for a caesarean section and describes anaesthetic protocols for use before, during and after the procedure.
Delayed infarction following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: Can the role of severe angiographic vasospasm really be dismissed?
Authors: Mortimer Alex M , Steinfort Brendan , Faulder Ken , Harrington Timothy
Published: July 2016

Background

The recent literature pertaining to delayed cerebral ischemia following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage has downplayed the role of angiographic vasospasm. However, it is our hypothesis that angiographic vasospasm has a significant pathophysiological role in this disease. We undertook an observational radiographic study of patients who presented in a delayed manner (>72 h from ictus) with evidence of severe angiographic vasospasm on initial angiography in order to describe an apparent association between vasospasm and infarct location.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of consecutive patients treated at our unit. Initial, subsequent, and follow-up cross-sectional imaging with CT or MRI was analyzed in conjunction with initial angiography. Sites of angiographic narrowing, angiographic hypoperfusion, and subsequent sites of infarction were assessed.

Results

Thirteen patients (6 women, 7 men) of mean age 49 years were assessed. Mean time to presentation was 6 days. All had severe angiographic vasospasm. Nine of the 13 patients suffered infarction; the infarcts in seven of the nine patients were large. There was correlation between sites of angiographic narrowing and infarction in all cases and eight of the nine cases showed angiographic hypoperfusion in a location corresponding to eventual infarct location.

Conclusions

Severe angiographic vasospasm may be linked to infarction in patients who present late. These infarcts are mostly large despite maximal treatment. We question the notion that proximal vasospasm has a minor role in delayed ischemia.
Large-scale prediction of aboveground biomass in heterogeneous mountain forests by means of airborne laser scanning
Authors: Maltamo M. , Bollandsås O.M. , Gobakken T. , Næsset E.
Published: July 2016

This study considered airborne laser scanning (ALS) based aboveground biomass (AGB) prediction in mountain forests. The study area consisted of a long transect from southern Norway to northern parts of the country with wide ranges of elevation along a long latitudinal gradient (58°N–69°N). This transect was covered by ALS data and field data from 238 plots. AGB was modeled using different types of predictor variables, namely ALS metrics, variables related to growing conditions (elevation, latitude, and climatic variables), and tree species information. Modelling of AGB in the long transect covering diverse mountainous forest conditions was challenging: the RMSE values were rather large (37%–70%). The effects of growing conditions on model predictions were minor. However, species information was essential to improve accuracy. The analysis revealed that when doing inventories of spruce-dominated areas, all plots should be pooled together when the models are developed, whereas if pine or deciduous species dominate the area in question, separate dominant species-wise models should be constructed.
QCD test with the momentum spectra and the second binomial moment R2 using e+e− data
Authors: Hasheminia M. , Zomorrodian M.E. , Mirjalili A.
Published: July 2016

Experimental data on the shape of hadronic momentum spectra are compared to the context of calculations in modified leading log approximation (MLLA), under the assumption of local parton hadron duality (LPHD). Considered are the inclusive momentum spectra and charged particle distributions in the reaction e+e− → hadrons, using the experimental as well as the Monte Carlo data at center of mass energies up to 200 GeV. Values of the second binomial moment R2 obtained from the multiplicity distributions are also studied. Our results are compared with both experimental data from high and low energy e+e−, e−p, and pp experiments and QCD calculations in various theoretical approaches. In general, good agreement is found between the measurements and the corresponding QCD predictions. A quantitative check of LPHD + MLLA has been performed by extracting a value of the strong coupling constant from the corresponding distributions. Possible explanations for all these features will be presented in this paper.
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) activation in cutaneous wounds after topical application of aloe vera gel
Authors: Takzaree Nasrin , Hadjiakhondi Abbas , Hassanzadeh Gholamreza , Rouini Mohammad Reza , Manayi Azadeh , Zolbin Masoumeh Majidi
Published: July 2016

Aloe vera is a medicinal plant used to treat various skin diseases. The effects of using aloe vera gel on the healing process were investigated by microscopic methods, cell counting, and TGF-β gene expression in the wound bed. Sixty Wistar rats weighing 200–250 g were placed under anesthesia in sterile conditions. A square 1.5 cm × 1.5 cm wound was made on the back of the neck. The rats were divided into control and 2 experimental groups. Additionally, the control and experimental groups were separated into 3 subgroups corresponding to 4, 7, and 14 days of study. In the first experimental group, aloe vera was used twice on the wound. The second experimental group received aloe vera overtreatment once on the wound. The positive control group received daily application of 1% phenytoein cream following surgical wound creation. The control group did not receive any treatment. This tissue was examined using histological staining (H&E) and Masson’s Trichrome. Wound surface and wound healing were evaluated separately. TGF-β gene expression was analyzed by RT–PCR. Results showed that fibroblasts in both experimental groups were significantly increased, thereby acceleration wound healing. Application of aloe vera gel will increase TGF-β gene expression, ultimately accelerating the wound healing process.
Exposing the illegal trade in cycad species (Cycadophyta:Encephalartos) at two traditional medicine markets in South Africa using DNA barcoding
Authors: Williamson J. , Maurin O. , Shiba S.N.S. , van der Bank H. , Pfab M. , Pilusa M. , Kabongo R.M. , van der Bank M.
Published: July 2016

Species in the cycad genus Encephalartos are listed in CITES Appendix I and as Threatened or Protected Species in terms of South Africa’s National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEM:BA) of 2004. Despite regulations, illegal plant harvesting for medicinal trade has continued in South Africa and resulted in declines in cycad populations and even complete loss of sub-populations. Encephalartos is traded at traditional medicine markets in South Africa in the form of bark strips and stem sections; thus, determining the species traded presents a major challenge due to a lack of characteristic plant parts. Here, a case study is presented on the use of DNA barcoding to identify cycads sold at the Faraday and Warwick traditional medicine markets in Johannesburg and Durban, respectively. Market samples were sequenced for the core DNA barcodes (rbcLa and matK) as well as two additional regions: nrITS and trnH-psbA. The barcoding database for cycads at the University of Johannesburg was utilized to assign query samples to known species. Three approaches were followed: tree-based, similarity-based, and character-based (BRONX) methods. Market samples identified were Encephalartos ferox (Near Threatened), Encephalartos lebomboensis (Endangered), Encephalartos natalensis (Near Threatened), Encephalartos senticosus (Vulnerable), and Encephalartos villosus (Least Concern). Results from this study are crucial for making appropriate assessments and decisions on how to manage these markets.
The fermionic covariant prolongation structure of the super generalized Hirota equation
Authors: Yan Zhaowen , Yao Shaokui , Zhang Chunhong , Gegenhasi
Published: July 2016

The integrability of a super generalized Hirota equation (GHE) is investigated by means of the fermionic covariant prolongation structure theory. We construct the [Formula: see text] prolongation structure for the super GHE and derive the corresponding Lax representation and the Bäcklund transformation. In addition, a solution of the super integrable equation is presented.
A Bilayer Model for Incorporating the Coupled Effects of Surface Energy and Microstructure on the Electromechanical Stability of NEMS
Authors: Soroush Rahman , Koochi Ali , Keivani Maryam , Abadyan Mohamadreza
Published: July 2016

Herein, the static and dynamic pull-in instabilities of nanotweezers and nanoswitches fabricated from conductive cylindrical nanowires are studied. A bilayer model based on the Gurtin–Murdoch surface elasticity and the consistent couple stress theory is developed to incorporate the coupled effects of surface energy and microstructure phenomenon. The differential quadrature method is employed to solve the nonlinear governing equation of the system. The effects of various parameters on the static and dynamic pull-in parameters and stability threshold of the nanostructures are demonstrated.
Deflection of the progradational axis and asymmetry in tidal seaway and strait deltas: insights from two outcrop case studies
Authors: Longhitano Sergio G. , Steel Ron J.
Published: July 2016

Deltas represent the major sediment source for tectonically confined, tide-dominated seaways or straits. Modern examples show how along-shore tidal currents are able to modify the impinging delta shape, generating asymmetrical coastal plains, deflected delta fronts and elongate sandbanks. Seaway or strait deltas can become become tide-influenced or tide-dominated, assuming physical attributes that may depart from classical models. Ancient deltas in seaways and straits can also reveal unexpected facies stacking and stratigraphies, which can be misinterpreted or attributed to different depositional settings. Two ancient analogues of deltas that prograded into elongate basins dominated by amplified tidal currents are presented here. A common element in these deltas is the progressive-upwards change in the dominant process of sediment dispersion recorded in the delta facies. Early stages of progradation are dominated by river- and wave-influenced lithofacies, whereas late deltaic advancements occur with a dominance of tidal current circulation on the delta fronts and the consequent morphologies are deflected/elongated in the direction of tidal flow. This study provides the basis for a preliminary stratigraphic framework for the depositional style of these types of delta. The studied deposits also suggest analogies with the spatial distribution of many hydrocarbon reservoirs investigated along the margins of confined, narrow, linear basins, the interpretation of which is still debated.
Moho and basement depth in the NE Atlantic Ocean based on seismic refraction data and receiver functions
Authors: Funck Thomas , Geissler Wolfram H. , Kimbell Geoffrey S. , Gradmann Sofie , Erlendsson Ögmundur , McDermott Kenneth , Petersen Uni K.
Published: July 2016

Seismic refraction data and results from receiver functions were used to compile the depth to the basement and Moho in the NE Atlantic Ocean. For interpolation between the unevenly spaced data points, the kriging technique was used. Free-air gravity data were used as constraints in the kriging process for the basement. That way, structures with little or no seismic coverage are still presented on the basement map, in particular the basins off East Greenland. The rift basins off NW Europe are mapped as a continuous zone with basement depths of between 5 and 15 km. Maximum basement depths off NE Greenland are 8 km, but these are probably underestimated. Plate reconstructions for Chron C24 (
c.
54 Ma) suggest that the poorly known Ammassalik Basin off SE Greenland may correlate with the northern termination of the Hatton Basin at the conjugate margin. The most prominent feature on the Moho map is the Greenland–Iceland–Faroe Ridge, with Moho depths >28 km. Crustal thickness is compiled from the Moho and basement depths. The oceanic crust displays an increased thickness close to the volcanic margins affected by the Iceland plume.
Influence of intracellular Ca2+ and alternative splicing on the pharmacological profile of ANO1 channels
Authors: Sung Tae Sik , O'Driscoll Kate , Zheng Haifeng , Yapp Nicholas J. , Leblanc Normand , Koh Sang Don , Sanders Kenton M.
Published: July 2016

Anoctamin-1 (ANO1) is a Ca2+-activated Cl− channel expressed in many types of cells. Splice variants of ANO1 have been shown to influence the biophysical properties of conductance. It has been suggested that several new antagonists of ANO1 with relatively high affinity and selectivity might be useful for experimental and, potentially, therapeutic purposes. We investigated the effects of intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) at 100-1,000 nM, a concentration range that might be achieved in cells during physiological activation of ANO1 channels, on blockade of ANO1 channels expressed in HEK-293 cells. Whole cell and excised patch configurations of the patch-clamp technique were used to perform tests on a variety of naturally occurring splice variants of ANO1. Blockade of ANO1 currents with aminophenylthiazole (T16Ainh-A01) was highly dependent on [Ca2+]i. Increasing [Ca2+]i reduced the potency of this blocker. Similar Ca2+-dependent effects were also observed with benzbromarone. Experiments on excised, inside-out patches showed that the diminished potency of the blockers caused by intracellular Ca2+ might involve a competitive interaction for a common binding site or repulsion of the blocking drugs by electrostatic forces at the cytoplasmic surface of the channels. The degree of interaction between the channel blockers and [Ca2+]i depends on the splice variant expressed. These experiments demonstrate that the efficacy of ANO1 antagonists depends on [Ca2+]i, suggesting a need for caution when ANO1 blockers are used to determine the role of ANO1 in physiological functions and in their use as therapeutic agents.
TNF-α augments RANKL-dependent intestinal M cell differentiation in enteroid cultures
Authors: Wood Megan B. , Rios Daniel , Williams Ifor R.
Published: July 2016

Microfold (M) cells are phagocytic intestinal epithelial cells in the follicle-associated epithelium of Peyer's patches that transport particulate antigens from the gut lumen into the subepithelial dome. Differentiation of M cells from epithelial stem cells in intestinal crypts requires the cytokine receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) and the transcription factor Spi-B. We used three-dimensional enteroid cultures established with small intestinal crypts from mice as a model system to investigate signaling pathways involved in M cell differentiation and the influence of other cytokines on RANKL-induced M cell differentiation. Addition of RANKL to enteroids induced expression of multiple M cell-associated genes, including Spib, Ccl9 [chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 9], Tnfaip2 (TNF-α-induced protein 2), Anxa5 (annexin A5), and Marcksl1 (myristoylated alanine-rich protein kinase C substrate) in 1 day. The mature M cell marker glycoprotein 2 ( Gp2) was strongly induced by 3 days and expressed by 11% of cells in enteroids. The noncanonical NF-κB pathway was required for RANKL-induced M cell differentiation in enteroids, as addition of RANKL to enteroids from mice with a null mutation in the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 14 ( Map3k14) gene encoding NF-κB-inducing kinase failed to induce M cell-associated genes. While the cytokine TNF-α alone had little, if any, effect on expression of M cell-associated genes, addition of TNF-α to RANKL consistently resulted in three- to sixfold higher levels of multiple M cell-associated genes than RANKL alone. One contributing mechanism is the rapid induction by TNF-α of Relb and Nfkb2 (NF-κB subunit 2), genes encoding the two subunits of the noncanonical NF-κB heterodimer. We conclude that endogenous activators of canonical NF-κB signaling present in the gut-associated lymphoid tissue microenvironment, including TNF-α, can play a supportive role in the RANKL-dependent differentiation of M cells in the follicle-associated epithelium.