bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tolerance Control Using Subvoxel Gray-Scale DLP 3D Printing
Authors: Mostafa Khaled , Qureshi A. J. , Montemagno Carlo
Published: January 2018

3D printing manufacturing technology has been utilized in various applications due to its promising manufacturing advantages. Desktop Digital Light Processing (DLP) printers provide high-resolution products with a moderate price range. DLP uses an array of micromirrors to transmit UV light from the light projector in order to perform selective curing of a prepolymer resin and turn it in to the required geometry. The CAD file is transformed into several slices according to the layer thickness. Each slice is then converted to an image of black and white pixels, in which each white pixel actuates a corresponding micromirror to transmit the UV light to cure a corresponding voxel, while a black pixel corresponds to no actuation, which means no curing for the corresponding voxel. The micromirror’s size determines the resolution of the printer. Although a theoretical voxel size can be determined as a function of the micromirror’s dimensions and layer thickness, the actual voxel volume depends on several parameters such as the layer thickness, UV exposure time, and UV exposure intensity. Controlling these three parameters would result in more accurate 3D printed parts and more control over the dimensional tolerance. In this paper, the effect of variable light intensity in terms of grayscale pixels is studied along with the exposure time and layer thickness to manipulate the voxel horizontal dimensions. This enables printing with voxel dimensions below the size of the micromirrors in the DLP, which improve the geometric dimensioning and tolerance of the printed parts.
A Numerical Study to Investigate the Heat Transfer and Thermodynamic Performance of a Natural Convection Driven Thermal Energy Storage System
Authors: Satbhai Ojas , Roy Subhransu , Ghosh Sudipto
Published: January 2018

In this work numerical experiment was performed for studying the heat transfer and thermodynamic performance of the melting process in a bottom heated square cavity. The bottom wall is maintained at a temperature higher that the melting temperature of the PCM, while all other walls are perfectly insulated. The transient numerical simulations were performed for melting Gallium, (a low Prandtl number PCM with high latent heat to density ratio) at moderate Rayleigh number (Ra ≊ 105). The transient numerical model consist of solving coupled continuity, momentum and energy equation in the unstructured formulation using the PISO algorithm. In this work, the fixed grid, source-based enthalpy-porosity approach has been adopted. The heat transfer performance of the melting process was analyzed by studying the evolution of global fluid fraction, Nusselt number at the hot wall, volume averaged normalised flow kinetic energy with time. The thermodynamic performance is analyzed by calculating local entropy generation rates considering both irreversibility due to finite temperature gradient and viscous dissipation. The values of second law efficiency clearly shows that the current thermal design of the phase-change heat accumulators are very close to the ideal design.
Integral Methods in Solving Governing Nonlinear Partial Differential Equations in the Undergraduate Heat Transfer Course
Authors: Haidar Salim M. , Mohammadzadeh AliReza
Published: January 2018

All undergraduate heat transfer textbooks available today give an overriding role to the method of separation of variables to the point of excluding other frameworks and views for solving the underlying governing PDEs. However, the transition from a linear to a nonlinear heat transfer model not only makes the method of separation of variables inapplicable, but also introduces additional mathematical and computational difficulties that must be studied further and overcome. Yet, none of these textbooks discuss integral methods for solving the governing PDEs in heat transfer which are at least as good as the common separation of variables and finite difference techniques taught in the classroom. In this paper, we extend our new methodology from the linear to the nonlinear heat conduction problems by bringing such powerful methods to the undergraduate heat transfer classroom with no prior student experience with PDEs [1]. Integral methods of Von Kármán together with Ritz and Kantorovich methods are used to show our students in the undergraduate heat transfer course how to find approximate analytic solutions to nonlinear multidimensional steady and unsteady conduction problems involving surface radiation and temperature-dependent thermo-physical properties under distinct temperature profiles. The approach has a certain elegance in the sense that it expresses the complete physical effect of the system in terms of a single integral representing the first law of thermodynamics; moreover, the implications of using integral methods in this undergraduate course show the value of mathematical simplification in reducing the order of the governing PDEs and/or the number of associated independent variables. No knowledge of separation of variables or transform methods is needed to obtain an approximate analytic solution to such nonlinear multidimensional steady or unsteady problems with accuracy acceptable by most engineering standards.
An Experimental Study of 3D Printed Herringbone Grooved Journal Bearings
Authors: Rasmussen Elizabeth , Rudolph Phillip , Mamishev Alexander
Published: January 2018

Herringbone grooved journal bearings are well known for their reliability and high rotor dynamic stability thresholds. While there is a large body of research surrounding the optimized groove geometry parameters, analysis on the material the groves are placed on has been mainly limited to metals. The ability to use plastic while maintaining desired qualities of reliability and stability is of great interest due to its light weight and low cost possibilities. The goal of the current study is to see if current technology limits on plastic 3D printed parts layer thickness inhibit lubricant flow, or if 3D printed parts can be used as an alternative choice in manufacturing journal bearings. The optimum geometries for square, circular, and beveled step groove profiles were 3D printed with layer thicknesses of 16, 50, 100, and 250 micrometers. Additionally, the effect of herringbone groove parameters such as groove width ratio, groove depth ratio, and groove angle were explored. Finally, a 2-dimentional Computational Fluid Dynamics simulation of a square, circular, and beveled step herringbone groove geometry velocity magnitude profiles are presented.
A Triassic-Jurassic window into the evolution of Lepidoptera
Authors: van Eldijk Timo J. B. , Wappler Torsten , Strother Paul K. , van der Weijst Carolien M. H. , Rajaei Hossein , Visscher Henk , van de Schootbrugge Bas
Published: January 2018

The oldest ancestors of moths and butterflies evolved in a gymnosperm world.
Unlocking data sets by calibrating populations of models to data density: A study in atrial electrophysiology
Authors: Lawson Brodie A. J. , Drovandi Christopher C. , Cusimano Nicole , Burrage Pamela , Rodriguez Blanca , Burrage Kevin
Published: January 2018

We describe a statistically informed calibration of in silico populations to explore variability in complex systems.
Declining oxygen in the global ocean and coastal waters
Authors: Breitburg Denise , Levin Lisa A. , Oschlies Andreas , Grégoire Marilaure , Chavez Francisco P. , Conley Daniel J. , Garçon Véronique , Gilbert Denis , Gutiérrez Dimitri , Isensee Kirsten , Jacinto Gil S. , Limburg Karin E. , Montes Ivonne , Naqvi S. W. A. , Pitcher Grant C. , Rabalais Nancy N. , Roman Michael R. , Rose Kenneth A. , Seibel Brad A. , Telszewski Maciej , Yasuhara Moriaki , Zhang Jing
Published: January 2018

Beneath the waves, oxygen disappears

As plastic waste pollutes the oceans and fish stocks decline, unseen below the surface another problem grows: deoxygenation. Breitburg
et al.
review the evidence for the downward trajectory of oxygen levels in increasing areas of the open ocean and coastal waters. Rising nutrient loads coupled with climate change—each resulting from human activities—are changing ocean biogeochemistry and increasing oxygen consumption. This results in destabilization of sediments and fundamental shifts in the availability of key nutrients. In the short term, some compensatory effects may result in improvements in local fisheries, such as in cases where stocks are squeezed between the surface and elevated oxygen minimum zones. In the longer term, these conditions are unsustainable and may result in ecosystem collapses, which ultimately will cause societal and economic harm.

Science
, this issue p.
eaam7240
Observation of bulk Fermi arc and polarization half charge from paired exceptional points
Authors: Zhou Hengyun , Peng Chao , Yoon Yoseob , Hsu Chia Wei , Nelson Keith A. , Fu Liang , Joannopoulos John D. , Soljačić Marin , Zhen Bo
Published: January 2018

Exploring photonic topology

Scattering topological effects are being explored in a variety of electronic and optical materials systems owing to their robustness against defects (see the Perspective by Özdemir). Yang
et al.
designed and fabricated an ideal optical analog of a three-dimensional Weyl system. Angular transmission measurements revealed four Weyl points at the same energy, as well as the signature helicoidal arcs associated with such an exotic topological system. Zhou
et al.
theoretically proposed and experimentally demonstrated the formation of a topologically protected bulk Fermi arc. They attributed the formation of the arc to the topological nature of paired exceptional points (points at which gain and loss in the system are matched). Photonic crystals may provide a powerful platform for studying exotic properties of topological electronic systems and may also be used to develop optical devices that exploit topological properties of light-matter interactions.

Science
, this issue p.
1013
, p.
1009
; see also p.
995
A Novel Inhibitor of the LolCDE ABC Transporter Essential for Lipoprotein Trafficking in Gram-Negative Bacteria
Authors: Nickerson Nicholas N. , Jao Christine C. , Xu Yiming , Quinn John , Skippington Elizabeth , Alexander Mary Kate , Miu Anh , Skelton Nicholas , Hankins Jessica V. , Lopez Michael S. , Koth Christopher M. , Rutherford Steven , Nishiyama Mireille
Published: January 2018

The outer membrane is an essential structural component of Gram-negative bacteria that is composed of lipoproteins, lipopolysaccharides, phospholipids, and integral β-barrel membrane proteins. A dedicated machinery, called the Lol system, ensures proper trafficking of lipoproteins from the inner to the outer membrane. The LolCDE ABC transporter is the inner membrane component, which is essential for bacterial viability. Here, we report a novel pyrrolopyrimidinedione compound, G0507, which was identified in a phenotypic screen for inhibitors of
Escherichia coli
growth followed by selection of compounds that induced the extracytoplasmic σ
E
stress response. Mutations in
lolC
,
lolD
, and
lolE
conferred resistance to G0507, suggesting LolCDE as its molecular target. Treatment of
E. coli
cells with G0507 resulted in accumulation of fully processed Lpp, an outer membrane lipoprotein, in the inner membrane. Using purified protein complexes, we found that G0507 binds to LolCDE and stimulates its ATPase activity. G0507 still binds to LolCDE harboring a Q258K substitution in LolC (LolC
Q258K
), which confers high-level resistance to G0507
in vivo
but no longer stimulates ATPase activity. Our work demonstrates that G0507 has significant promise as a chemical probe to dissect lipoprotein trafficking in Gram-negative bacteria.
Novel Two-Component System of Streptococcus sanguinis Affecting Functions Associated with Viability in Saliva and Biofilm Formation
Authors: Camargo Tarsila M. , Stipp Rafael N. , Alves Lívia A. , Harth-Chu Erika N. , Höfling José F. , Mattos-Graner Renata O.
Published: January 2018

Streptococcus sanguinis
is a pioneer species of teeth and a common opportunistic pathogen of infective endocarditis. In this study, we identified a two-component system,
S. sanguinis
SptRS (SptRS

Ss

), affecting
S. sanguinis
survival in saliva and biofilm formation. Isogenic mutants of

sptR
Ss

(SKsptR) and

sptS
Ss

(SKsptS) showed reduced cell counts in
ex vivo
assays of viability in saliva compared to those of parent strain SK36 and complemented mutants. Reduced counts of the mutants in saliva were associated with reduced growth rates in nutrient-poor medium (RPMI) and increased susceptibility to the deposition of C3b and the membrane attach complex (MAC) of the complement system, a defense component of saliva and serum. Conversely,

sptR
Ss

and

sptS
Ss

mutants showed increased biofilm formation associated with higher levels of production of H
2
O
2
and extracellular DNA. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) comparisons of strains indicated a global role of SptRS

Ss

in repressing genes for H
2
O
2
production (2.5- to 15-fold upregulation of
spxB
,
spxR
,
vicR
,
tpk
, and
ackA
in

sptR
Ss

and

sptS
Ss

mutants), biofilm formation, and/or evasion of host immunity (2.1- to 11.4-fold upregulation of
srtA
,
pcsB
,
cwdP
,
iga
, and
nt5e
). Compatible with the homology of SptR

Ss

with AraC-type regulators, duplicate to multiple conserved repeats were identified in 1,000-bp regulatory regions of downstream genes, suggesting that SptR

Ss

regulates transcription by DNA looping. Significant transcriptional changes in the regulatory genes
vicR
,
spxR
,
comE
,
comX
, and
mecA
in the

sptR
Ss

and

sptS
Ss

mutants further indicated that SptRS

Ss

is part of a regulatory network that coordinates cell wall homeostasis, H
2
O
2
production, and competence. This study reveals that SptRS

Ss

is involved in the regulation of crucial functions for
S. sanguinis
persistence in the oral cavity.
Comparative analysis of the safety and efficacy of intracameral cefuroxime, moxifloxacin and vancomycin at the end of cataract surgery: a meta-analysis
Authors: Bowen Randy C , Zhou Andrew Xingyu , Bondalapati Sailaja , Lawyer Thomas W , Snow Karisa B , Evans Patrick R , Bardsley Tyler , McFarland Mary , Kliethermes Matthew , Shi Dallas , Mamalis Christina A , Greene Tom , Rudnisky Christopher J , Ambati Balamurali Krishna
Published: January 2018

Background

Current practice methods are unclear as to the most safe and effective prophylactic pharmacotherapy and method of delivery to reduce postoperative endophthalmitis occurrence.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis using Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines was performed to compare the efficacy of intracameral cefuroxime, moxifloxacin and vancomycin in preventing postphacoemulsification cataract surgery endophthalmitis. A safety analysis of intracameral antibiotics was concurrently performed.

Data sources

BIOSIS Previews, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov, Cochrane Library, Dissertations & Theses, EMBASE, PubMed, ScienceDirect and Scopus were searched from inception to January 2017. Data were pooled using a random effects model. All articles were individually reviewed and data were extracted by two independent reviewers. Funnel plot, risk of bias and quality of evidence analyses were performed.

Results

Seventeen studies with over 900 000 eyes were included, which favoured the use of intracameral antibiotics at the end of cataract surgery (OR 0.20; 95% CI 0.13 to 0.32; P<0.00001). The average weighted postoperative endophthalmitis incidence rates with intracameral cefuroxime, moxifloxacin and vancomycin were 0.0332%, 0.0153% and 0.0106%, respectively. Secondary analyses showed no difference in efficacy between intracameral plus topical antibiotics versus intracameral alone (P>0.3). Most studies had low to moderate risk of bias. The safety analysis showed minimal toxicity for moxifloxacin. Dosing errors led to the majority of toxicities with cefuroxime. Although rare, vancomycin was associated with toxic retinal events.

Conclusion

Intracameral cefuroxime and moxifloxacin reduced endophthalmitis rates compared with controls with minimal or no toxicity events at standard doses. Additionally, intracameral antibiotics alone may be as effective as intracameral plus topical antibiotics.
Functional lesional neurosurgery for tremor: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Schreglmann Sebastian R , Krauss Joachim K , Chang Jin Woo , Bhatia Kailash P , Kägi Georg
Published: January 2018

Background

This work evaluates the consistency, effect size and incidence of persistent side effects of lesional neurosurgical interventions in the treatment of tremor due to Parkinson’s disease (PD), essential tremor (ET), multiple sclerosis (MS) and midbrain lesions.

Methods

Systematic review and meta-analysis according to PRISMA-P guidelines. Random effects meta-analysis of standardised mean difference based on a peer-reviewed protocol (PROSPERO no. CRD42016048049).

Results

From 1249 abstracts screened, 86 peer-reviewed studies reporting 102 cohorts homogeneous for tremor aetiology, surgical target and technique were included.

Effect on PD tremor was better when targeted at the ventral intermediate nucleus (V.im.) by radiofrequency ablation (RF) (Hedge’s g: −4.15;) over V.im. by Gamma Knife (GK) (−2.2), subthalamic nucleus (STN) by RF (−1.12) and globus pallidus internus (GPi) by RF (−0.89). For ET MRI-guided focused ultrasound (MRIgFUS) ablation of the cerebellothalamic tract (CTT) (−2.35) and V.im. (−2.08) showed similar mean tremor reductions to V.im. ablation by RF (−2.42) or GK (−2.13). In MS V.im. ablation by GK (−1.96) and RF (−1.63) were similarly effective.

Mean rates of persistent side effects after unilateral lesions in PD were 12.8% (RF V.im.), 13.6% (RF STN), 9.2% (RF GPi), 0.7% (GK V.im.) and 7.0% (MRIgFUS V.im.). For ET, rates were 9.3% (RF V.im.), 1.8% (GK V.im.), 18.7% (MRIgFUS V.im.) and 0.0% (MRIgFUS CTT), for MS 37.7% (RF V.im.) and for rubral tremor 30.3% (RF V.im.).

Conclusion

This meta-analysis quantifies safety, consistency and efficacy of lesional neurosurgical interventions for tremor by target, technique and aetiology.
Prevalence of hippocampal enlarged perivascular spaces in a sample of patients with hypertension and their relation with vascular risk factors and cognitive function
Authors: Jiménez-Balado Joan , Riba-Llena Iolanda , Garde Edurne , Valor Marta , Gutiérrez Belen , Pujadas Francesc , Delgado Pilar
Published: January 2018

Objectives

The clinical importance of hippocampal enlarged perivascular spaces (H-EPVS) remains uncertain. We aimed to study their association with vascular risk factors, cognitive function and mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Methods

Data were obtained from the ISSYS (Investigating Silent Strokes in hYpertensives, a magnetic resonance imaging Study) cohort, which is a prospective study of patients with hypertension aged 50–70 with no prior stroke or dementia. Participants were clinically evaluated and underwent a cognitive screening test, Dementia Rating Scale-2, which includes five cognitive subscales (attention, initiation/perseveration, conceptualisation, construction and memory). Besides, they were diagnosed with MCI or normal ageing following standard criteria. H-EPVS were manually counted on brain MRI according to a previous scale and defined as extensive when H-EPVS count was ≥7 (upper quartile). Multivariate models were created to study the relationship between H-EPVS, vascular risk factors and cognitive function.

Results

723 patients were included; the median age was 64 (59–67) and 51% were male. Seventy-two patients (10%) were diagnosed with MCI and 612 (84.6%) had at least 1 H-EPVS. Older age (OR per year=1.04, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.08) and poor blood pressure treatment compliance (OR=1.50, 95% CI 1.07 to 2.11) were independently associated with extensive H-EPVS. Regarding cognitive function, H-EPVS were independently and inversely correlated with verbal reasoning (β=−0.021, 95% CI −0.038 to −0.003). No association was found between H-EPVS and MCI.

Conclusions

H-EPVS are a frequent finding in patients with hypertension and are associated with ageing and poor hypertension treatment compliance. Besides, H-EPVS are associated with worse verbal reasoning function.
Advanced therapies for the management of adults with pulmonary arterial hypertension due to congenital heart disease: a systematic review
Authors: Varela Daniel L , Teleb Mohamed , El-Mallah Wael
Published: January 2018

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) secondary to congenital heart disease (CHD) is the third most common cause of PAH, and it is becoming increasingly common as improvements in the management of CHD have led to increased life expectancy for these patients. The medical management of PAH due to CHD (PAH-CHD) is largely the same as what has been used for the treatment of idiopathic PAH, though the body of literature supporting this management decision is very small. There are currently few studies available which specifically focus on the treatment of PAH-CHD. The purpose of this literature review is to compare the results of those studies that assessed the response to medical therapy among adults with PAH-CHD; studies were excluded if they focused on paediatric patients, did not include an assessment of 6 min walking distance or specifically assessed combination therapies. This review found that riociguat, bosentan, epoprostenol and sildenafil were all capable of improving functional capacity and haemodynamic parameters in patients with PAH-CHD, but whether this corresponds to an increase in mortality remains to be seen. Limitations of this review include the small sample size and variable duration of the included studies, which makes drawing direct comparisons between studies and the study drugs difficult. The lack of large, randomised double-blind clinical trials comparing different drugs head to head highlights an area that is ripe for ongoing medical research, the results of which may help shape future treatment algorithms tailored specifically for adults with PAH-CHD.
Mixed-methods evaluation of a novel online STI results service
Authors: Gibbs Jo , Aicken Catherine R H , Sutcliffe Lorna J , Gkatzidou Voula , Tickle Laura J , Hone Kate , Sadiq S Tariq , Sonnenberg Pam , Estcourt Claudia S
Published: January 2018

Objectives

Evidence on optimal methods for providing STI test results is lacking. We evaluated an online results service, developed as part of an eSexual Health Clinic (eSHC).

Methods

We evaluated the online results service using a mixed-methods approach within large exploratory studies of the eSHC. Participants were chlamydia- positive and negative users of online postal self-sampling services in six National Chlamydia Screening Programme (NCSP) areas and chlamydia-positive patients from two genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics between 21 July 2014 and 13 March 2015. Participants received a discreetly worded National Health Service ’NHS no-reply’ text message (SMS) informing them that their test results were ready and providing a weblink to a secure website. Participants logged in with their date of birth and mobile telephone or clinic number. Chlamydia-positive patients were offered online management. All interactions with the eSHC system were automatically logged and their timing recorded. Post-treatment, a service evaluation survey (n=152) and qualitative interviews (n=36) were conducted by telephone. Chlamydia-negative patients were offered a short online survey (n=274). Data were integrated.

Results

92% (134/146) of NCSP chlamydia-positive patients, 82% (161/197) of GUM chlamydia-positive patients and 89% (1776/1997) of NCSP chlamydia-negative participants accessed test results within 7 days. 91% of chlamydia-positive patients were happy with the results service; 64% of those who had tested previously found the results service better or much better than previous experiences. 90% of chlamydia-negative survey participants agreed they would be happy to receive results this way in the future. Interviewees described accessing results with ease and appreciated the privacy and control the two-step process gave them.

Conclusion

A discreet SMS to alert users/patients that results are available, followed by provision of results via a secure website, was highly acceptable, irrespective of test result and testing history. The eSHC results service afforded users privacy and control over when they viewed results without compromising access.
Maxillary nerve block as part of a multimodal anaesthesia in a lactating red‐necked wallaby (Macropus rufogriseus) undergoing partial maxillectomy
Authors: Rodrigo‐Mocholi Diego , Vlaminck Lieven , Gasthuys Frank , Schauvliege Stijn
Published: January 2018

A partial maxillectomy was performed in a four‐year‐old, 12‐kg lactating female red‐necked wallaby or Bennett’s wallaby (Macropus rufogriseus) with a diagnosis of oral necrobacillosis or ‘lumpy jaw disease’. After intramuscular administration of dexmedetomidine and ketamine, anaesthesia was maintained with isoflurane in a mixture of oxygen and medical air. A maxillary nerve block was performed through the infraorbital canal with bupivacaine 0.5 per cent (0.2 ml/kg) to provide perioperative analgesia. Inhalant anaesthesia requirements gradually decreased during maintenance of anaesthesia. Oral tramadol was administered for postoperative pain management. During the following days, no behavioural or other signs of pain or discomfort were recorded. Physiological parameters stayed within reference values.
Conceptual model of local value creation applied to forest management in France
Authors: Sirina Natalia , Rohmer Serge , Tyl Benjamin , Kim Junbeum , Leseurre Johan
Published: January 2018

By incorporating the consideration of local issues, local value creation (LVC) creates value for local stakeholders, favoring local industry, local economic activity, and local availability of materials, services, and skills. The purpose of this study is to understand how local values in forest management could be framed and defined within the French forest management context and to explore how the process of LVC could be modeled. Therefore, in this study, we propose a meta-model that can be applied to ecosystem services provided by forests, enhancing the importance of the local context. Also, we introduce the concept of value creation, its connection with forest management, and the pivotal role of stakeholders in value definition. Finally, the way in which this generic conceptual model of the LVC can be applied to the forest management system in France is presented and discussed.
When generalists behave as specialists: local specialization by American badgers (Taxidea taxus)
Authors: Grassel S.M. , Rachlow J.L.
Published: January 2018

Differentiating species according to their relative niche breadth is a common approach in community ecology that can enhance understanding about how species relate to the environment. Although a species might exhibit a generalized ecology across its entire range, on a local scale, individuals might function as specialists. American badgers (Taxidea taxus (Schreber, 1777)) are terrestrial carnivores that have been described most often as generalists. We compared patterns of habitat selection by badgers at three scales to test the hypothesis that badgers would exhibit behaviors more closely aligned with specialists than generalists when inhabiting landscapes with black-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus (Ord, 1815)). At a course scale, badgers selected for prairie dog colonies across the landscape. At an intermediate scale, we documented significantly greater use of prairie dog colonies within the home ranges of badgers. At fine scales within colonies, badgers used areas that had relatively high densities of prairie dog burrows, where prey was presumably abundant. On multiple scales, badgers exhibited a narrow use of resources in comparison with the resources available. Our study provides additional evidence that badgers behave as specialists when burrowing rodents are highly concentrated and predictable over space and time.
Additive Manufacturing in SMEs: Empirical Evidences from Italy
Authors: Marzi Giacomo , Zollo Lamberto , Boccardi Andrea , Ciappei Cristiano
Published: January 2018

Research on innovative technological methods in SMEs’ production processes is progressively receiving attention. However, little is known about the emerging phenomenon of additive manufacturing (AM), which may represent a significant strategic lever for fostering a company’s competitiveness and performance, especially for SMEs. Our aim is to investigate the effects of AM on SMEs’ production process, in order to better understand the relative outcomes of such an innovative technique. We used latent content analysis for empirically analyzing SMEs present in one of the most important Italian gold jewelry districts. Our findings suggest that the AM introduction in a company’s production process effectively results in many positive outcomes, such as process innovation, customer satisfaction, costs, revenues, profits, and competitive advantage. Specifically, there is a positive linkage between AM and a company’s performance. Hence, such an innovative technique may be interpreted as a viable growth strategy for SMEs. Theoretical and managerial implications are discussed.
Multi-stage pyrite genesis and epigenetic selenium enrichment of Greenburn coals (East Ayrshire)
Authors: Bullock Liam A. , Parnell John , Perez Magali , Boyce Adrian , Feldmann Joerg , Armstrong Joseph G.T.
Published: January 2018

Carboniferous coals of the Ayrshire Coalfield are enriched in selenium (Se) relative to average UK and world compositions, substituting for sulphur in pyrite. Greenburn surface mine coals are characterized by syngenetic concretionary pyrite (
c.
15% total area), occurring as bedding-parallel banding, and later-formed (epigenetic) cross-cutting pyrite in cleats (
c.
9% total area). In these, sulphur isotope compositions for both syngenetic and epigenetic pyrite include isotopically light and heavy variants, suggesting diagenetic and hydrothermal fluid formation. Late/post-Visean cleat-filling pyrite is enriched in Se (up to 266 ppm) compared to the earlier-formed material (Se up to 181 ppm).

Anomalous Se may have been sourced from near-by sulphidic Dalradian metamorphic rocks. Initial Se sequestration is associated with syngenetic pyrite mineralization, absorbed from seawater and pore waters, with additional Se introduced from fluids mobilized during epigenetic pyrite formation. Cleats from local brittle fracturing provided channels for fluid flow and a locus for precipitation of comparatively high-Se pyrite. Permian dolerite intrusions may have provided an enrichment source and/or fluid distribution mechanism. The Se concentrations of the Greenburn coals relate to multi-stage mineralization, with cleat-filling pyrite showing the highest Se content, and highlight the potential for high Se in similarly altered and fractured coal deposits worldwide.

Supplementary material:
LA-ICP-MS maps for Fe, Se, Ag, As, Cu, Hg, Pb and Te for Greenburn coal samples from seams 9300 Lime and 6900 Burnfoot Bridge are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.3967860
Recent Advances in Solid-State Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Ashbrook Sharon E. , Griffin John M. , Johnston Karen E.
Published: January 2018

The sensitivity of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to the local atomic-scale environment offers great potential for the characterization of a diverse range of solid materials. Despite offering more information than its solution-state counterpart, solid-state NMR has not yet achieved a similar level of recognition, owing to the anisotropic interactions that broaden the spectral lines and hinder the extraction of structural information. Here, we describe the methods available to improve the resolution of solid-state NMR spectra and the continuing research in this area. We also highlight areas of exciting new and future development, including recent interest in combining experiment with theoretical calculations, the rise of a range of polarization transfer techniques that provide significant sensitivity enhancements, and the progress of in situ measurements. We demonstrate the detailed information available when studying dynamic and disordered solids and discuss the future applications of solid-state NMR spectroscopy across the chemical sciences.
Neonicotinoids and Other Insect Nicotinic Receptor Competitive Modulators: Progress and Prospects
Authors: Casida John E.
Published: January 2018

Neonicotinoids (neonics) are remarkably effective as plant systemics to control sucking insects and for flea control on dogs and cats. The nitroimines imidacloprid, clothianidin, thiamethoxam, and dinotefuran are the leaders among the seven commercial neonics that also include the nitromethylene nitenpyram, the nitromethylene-derived cycloxaprid, and the cyanoimines acetamiprid and thiacloprid. Honey bees are highly sensitive to the nitroimines and nitromethylenes, but the cyanoimines are less toxic. All neonics are nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) agonists with a common mode of action, target-site cross-resistance, and much higher potency on insect than mammalian nAChRs at defined binding sites. The structurally related sulfoximine sulfoxaflor and butenolide flupyradifurone are also nAChR agonists, and the mesoionic triflumezopyrim is a nAChR competitive modulator with little or no target-site cross-resistance. Some neonics induce stress tolerance in plants via salicylate-associated systems. The neonics in general are readily metabolized and, except for pollinators, have favorable toxicological profiles.
The Management of Insect Pests in Australian Cotton: An Evolving Story
Authors: Wilson Lewis J. , Whitehouse Mary E. A. , Herron Grant A.
Published: January 2018

The Australian cotton industry progressively embraced integrated pest management (IPM) to alleviate escalating insecticide resistance issues. A systems IPM approach was used with core principles that were built around pest ecology/biology and insecticide resistance management; together, these were integrated into a flexible, year-round approach that facilitated easy incorporation of new science, strategies, and pests. The approach emphasized both strategic and tactical elements to reduce pest abundance and rationalize decisions about pest control, with insecticides as a last resort. Industry involvement in developing the approach was vital to embedding IPM within the farming system. Adoption of IPM was facilitated by the introduction of Bt cotton, availability of selective insecticides, economic validation, and an industry-wide extension campaign. Surveys indicate IPM is now embedded in industry, confirming the effectiveness of an industry-led, backed-by-science approach. The amount of insecticide active ingredient applied per hectare against pests has also declined dramatically. Though challenges remain, pest management has transitioned from reactively attempting to eradicate pests from fields to proactively managing them year-round, considering the farm within the wider landscape.
Vagally mediated gastric effects of brain stem α2-adrenoceptor activation in stressed rats
Authors: Jiang Yanyan , Browning Kirsteen N. , Toti Luca , Travagli R. Alberto
Published: January 2018

Chronic stress exerts vagally dependent effects to disrupt gastric motility; previous studies have shown that, among other nuclei, A2 neurons are involved in mediating these effects. Several studies have also shown robust in vitro and in vivo effects of α2-adrenoceptor agonists on vagal motoneurons. We have demonstrated previously that brainstem vagal neurocircuits undergo remodeling following acute stress; however, the effects following brief periods of chronic stress have not been investigated. Our aim, therefore, was to test the hypothesis that different types of chronic stress influence gastric tone and motility by inducing plasticity in the response of vagal neurocircuits to α2-adrenoreceptor agonists. In rats that underwent 5 days of either homotypic or heterotypic stress loading, we applied the α2-adrenoceptor agonist, UK14304, either by in vitro brainstem perfusion to examine its ability to modulate GABAergic synaptic inputs to vagal motoneurons or in vivo brainstem microinjection to observe actions to modulate antral tone and motility. In neurons from naïve rats, GABAergic currents were unresponsive to exogenous application of UK14304. In contrast, GABAergic currents were inhibited by UK14304 in all neurons from homotypic and, in a subpopulation of neurons, heterotypic stressed rats. In control rats, UK14304 microinjection inhibited gastric tone and motility via withdrawal of vagal cholinergic tone; in heterotypic stressed rats, the larger inhibition of antrum tone was due to a concomitant activation of peripheral nonadrenergic, noncholinergic pathways. These data suggest that stress induces plasticity in brainstem vagal neurocircuits, leading to an upregulation of α2-mediated responses.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Catecholaminergic neurons of the A2 area play a relevant role in stress-related dysfunction of the gastric antrum. Brief periods of chronic stress load induce plastic changes in the actions of adrenoceptors on vagal brainstem neurocircuits.
β-Nitrostyrene derivatives attenuate LPS-mediated acute lung injury via the inhibition of neutrophil-platelet interactions and NET release
Authors: Chang Yao-Wen , Tseng Ching-Ping , Lee Chih-Hsun , Hwang Tsong-Long , Chen Yu-Li , Su Mei-Tzu , Chong Kowit-Yu , Lan Ying-Wei , Wu Chin-Chung , Chen Kung-Ju , Lu Fen-Hua , Liao Hsiang-Ruei , Hsueh Chuen , Hsieh Pei-Wen
Published: January 2018

Acute lung injury (ALI) and the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are high-mortality and life-threatening diseases that are associated with neutrophil activation and accumulation within lung tissue. Emerging evidence indicates that neutrophil-platelet aggregates (NPAs) at sites of injury increase acute inflammation and contribute to the development of ALI. Although numerous studies have increased our understanding of the pathophysiology of ALI, there is still a lack of innovative and useful treatments that reduce mortality, emphasizing that there is an urgent need for novel treatment strategies. In this study, a new series of small compounds of β-nitrostyrene derivatives (BNSDs) were synthesized, and their anti-inflammatory bioactivities on neutrophils and platelets were evaluated. The new small compound C7 modulates neutrophil function by inhibiting superoxide generation and elastase release. Compound C7 elicits protective effects on LPS-induced paw edema and acute lung injury via the inhibition of neutrophil accumulation, proinflammatory mediator release, platelet aggregation, myeloperoxidase activity, and neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) release. NET formation was identified as the bridge for the critical interactions between neutrophils and platelets by confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. This research provides new insights for elucidating the complicated regulation of neutrophils and platelets in ALI and sheds further light on future drug development strategies for ALI/ARDS and acute inflammatory diseases.
Successive contractile periods activate mitochondria at the onset of contractions in intact rat cardiac trabeculae
Authors: Wüst Rob C. I. , Stienen Ger J. M.
Published: January 2018

The rate of oxidative phosphorylation depends on the contractile activity of the heart. Cardiac mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation is determined by free ADP concentration, mitochondrial Ca2+accumulation, mitochondrial enzyme activities, and Krebs cycle intermediates. The purpose of the present study was to examine the factors that limit oxidative phosphorylation upon rapid changes in contractile activity in cardiac muscle. We tested the hypotheses that prior contractile performance enhances the changes in NAD(P)H and FAD concentration upon an increase in contractile activity and that this mitochondrial “priming” depends on pyruvate dehydrogenase activity. Intact rat cardiac trabeculae were electrically stimulated at 0.5 Hz for at least 30 min. Thereafter, two equal bouts at elevated stimulation frequency of 1, 2, or 3 Hz were applied for 3 min with 3 min of 0.5-Hz stimulation in between. No discernible time delay was observed in the changes in NAD(P)H and FAD fluorescence upon rapid changes in contractile activity. The amplitudes of the rapid changes in fluorescence upon an increase in stimulation frequency (the on-transients) were smaller than upon a decrease in stimulation frequency (the off-transients). A first bout in glucose-containing superfusion solution resulted, during the second bout, in an increase in the amplitudes of the on-transients, but the off-transients remained the same. No such priming effect was observed after addition of 10 mM pyruvate. These results indicate that mitochondrial priming can be observed in cardiac muscle in situ and that pyruvate dehydrogenase activity is critically involved in the mitochondrial adaptation to increases in contractile performance.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Mitochondrial respiration increases with increased cardiac contractile activity. Similar to mitochondrial “priming” in skeletal muscle, we hypothesized that cardiac mitochondrial activity is altered upon successive bouts of contractions and depends on pyruvate dehydrogenase activity. We found altered bioenergetics upon repeated contractile periods, indicative of mitochondrial priming in rat myocardium. No effect was seen when pyruvate was added to the perfusate. As such, pyruvate dehydrogenase activity is involved in the mitochondrial adaptation to increased contractile performance.
Bilateral Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Reshapes Resting-State Brain Networks: A Magnetoencephalography Assessment
Authors: Pellegrino Giovanni , Maran Matteo , Turco Cristina , Weis Luca , Di Pino Giovanni , Piccione Francesco , Arcara Giorgio
Published: January 2018

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can noninvasively induce brain plasticity, and it is potentially useful to treat patients affected by neurological conditions. However, little is known about tDCS effects on resting-state brain networks, which are largely involved in brain physiological functions and in diseases. In this randomized, sham-controlled, double-blind study on healthy subjects, we have assessed the effect of bilateral tDCS applied over the sensorimotor cortices on brain and network activity using a whole-head magnetoencephalography system. Bilateral tDCS, with the cathode (−) centered over C4 and the anode (+) centered over C3, reshapes brain networks in a nonfocal fashion. Compared to sham stimulation, tDCS reduces left frontal alpha, beta, and gamma power and increases global connectivity, especially in delta, alpha, beta, and gamma frequencies. The increase of connectivity is consistent across bands and widespread. These results shed new light on the effects of tDCS and may be of help in personalizing treatments in neurological disorders.
Long-Term Clinical Efficacy and Perioperative Safety of Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection versus Endoscopic Mucosal Resection for Early Gastric Cancer: An Updated Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhao Yajie , Wang Chengfeng
Published: January 2018

Background. To systematically evaluate the safety and efficacy of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) versus endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) for early gastric cancer (EGC). Methods. We searched the databases of PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library from January 2000 to April 2017 and included studies that compared the outcomes of ESD with EMR for EGC. These eligible studies that met the inclusion criteria were screened out and were assessed by two independent investigators. Result. In total, 18 retrospective cohort studies were eligible for analysis. Our results indicated that ESD is more beneficial than EMR in increasing the complete resection rate and en bloc resection rate and decreasing the local recurrence rate. However, ESD prolonged operative time and increased incidence of gastric perforation than EMR. No differences were found in postoperative bleeding rate between the two approaches. Conclusion. Compared with EMR, ESD offers higher complete resection rate, higher en bloc resection rate, and lower local recurrence rate but has prolonged operative time and increased incidence of gastric perfusion. There is no statistical difference in the rate of postoperative bleeding between the two groups. However, the above conclusion needs further verification by well-designed, randomized trials with larger samples and long follow-up periods.
Interactive Relationship between Silver Ions and Silver Nanoparticles with PVA Prepared by the Submerged Arc Discharge Method
Authors: Tseng Kuo-Hsiung , Chou Chih-Ju , Liu To-Cheng , Tien Der-Chi , Wu Tong-chi , Stobinski Leszek
Published: January 2018

This study uses the submerged arc discharge method (SADM) and the concentrated energy of arc to melt silver metal in deionized water (DW) so as to prepare metal fluid with nanoparticles and submicron particles. The process is free from any chemical agent; it is rapid and simple, and rapid and mass production is available (0.5 L/min). Aside from the silver nanoparticle (Ag0), silver ions (Ag+) exist in the colloidal Ag prepared by the system. In the preparation of colloidal Ag, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is used as an additive so that the Ag0/Ag+ concentration, arcing rate, peak, and scanning electron microscopic (SEM) images in the cases with and without PVA can be analyzed. The findings show that the Ag0/Ag+ concentration increases with the addition level of PVA, while the nano‐Ag and Ag+ electrode arcing rate rises. The UV‐Vis absorption peak increases Ag0 absorbance and shifts as the dispersity increases with PVA addition. Lastly, with PVA addition, the proposed method can prepare smaller and more amounts of Ag0 nanoparticles, distributed uniformly. PVA possesses many distinct features such as cladding, dispersion, and stability.
Influence of Pb Dosage on Immobilization Characteristics of Different Types of Alkali‐Activated Mixtures and Mortars
Authors: Koplík Jan , Pořízka Jaromír , Kalina Lukáš , Másilko Jiří , Březina Matěj
Published: January 2018

Alkali‐activated matrices are suitable materials for the immobilization of hazardous materials such as heavy metals. This paper is focused on the comparison of immobilization characteristics of various inorganic composite materials based on blast furnace slag and on the influence of various dosages of the heavy metal Pb on the mechanical properties and fixation ability of prepared matrices. Blast furnace slag (BFS), fly ash, and standard sand were used as raw materials, and sodium water glass was used as an alkaline activator. Pb(NO3)2 served as a source of heavy metal and was added in various dosages in solid state or as aqueous solution. The immobilization characteristics were determined by leaching tests, and the content of Pb in the eluate was measured by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP‐OES). The microstructure of matrices and distribution of Pb within the matrix were determined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS). Increasing the dosage of the heavy metal had negative impacts on the mechanical properties of prepared matrices. The leaching tests confirmed the ability of alkali‐activated materials to immobilize heavy metals. With increasing addition of Pb, its content in eluates increased.