bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Work function measurements using a field emission retarding potential technique
Authors: Hamanaka M. H. M. O. , Dall’Agnol F. F. , Pimentel V. L. , Mammana V. P. , Tatsch P. J. , den Engelsen D.
Published: March 2016

Herein we describe the measurement of the work function of a metal with advanced equipment based on the field emission retarding potential (FERP) method using a carbon nanotube (CNT) as cathode. The accuracy of the FERP method using a CNT emitter is described and a comparison between measurements of the work functions of aluminum, barium, calcium, gold, and platinum with published data will be presented. Our FERP equipment could be optimized with the aid of particle tracing simulations. These simulations led us to insert a magnetic collimator to improve the collection efficiency at the anode.
Response to “Comment on ‘Application of the extended Lie group analysis to the Hopf functional formulation of the Burgers equation’” [J. Math. Phys. 57, 034102 (2016)]
Authors: Wacławczyk Marta , Oberlack Martin
Published: March 2016

We address the criticism of Frewer et al. concerning the paper “Application of the extended Lie group analysis to the Hopf functional formulation of the Burgers equation” [J. Math. Phys. 54, 072901 (2013)]. Most importantly, we stress that we never claimed that any new statistical symmetries were found in this paper. The aim of this paper was to apply the Lie group analysis to an equation with functional derivatives and derive invariant solutions for this equation. These results still stand as they are, most important, mathematically correct. We address also other critical statements of Frewer et al. and show that there is a connection between the translational invariance of statistics and transformations of the functional Φ. To sum up, key ideas and fundamental result in the work of Wacławczyk and Oberlack are still unaffected.
Explicit accounting of electronic effects on the Hugoniot of porous materials
Authors: Nayak Bishnupriya , Menon S. V. G.
Published: March 2016

A generalized enthalpy based equation of state, which includes thermal electron excitations explicitly, is formulated from simple considerations. Its application to obtain Hugoniot of materials needs simultaneous evaluation of pressure-volume curve and temperature, the latter requiring solution of a differential equation. The errors involved in two recent papers [Huayun et al., J. Appl. Phys. 92, 5917 (2002); 92, 5924 (2002)], which employed this approach, are brought out and discussed. In addition to developing the correct set of equations, the present work also provides a numerical method to implement this approach. Constant pressure specific heat of ions and electrons and ionic enthalpy parameter, needed for applications, are calculated using a three component equation of state. The method is applied to porous Cu with different initial porosities. Comparison of results with experimental data shows good agreement. It is found that temperatures along the Hugoniot of porous materials are significantly modified due to electronic effects.
Quadratic integrand double-hybrid made spin-component-scaled
Authors: Brémond Éric , Savarese Marika , Sancho-García Juan C. , Pérez-Jiménez Ángel J. , Adamo Carlo
Published: March 2016

We propose two analytical expressions aiming to rationalize the spin-component-scaled (SCS) and spin-opposite-scaled (SOS) schemes for double-hybrid exchange-correlation density-functionals. Their performances are extensively tested within the framework of the nonempirical quadratic integrand double-hybrid (QIDH) model on energetic properties included into the very large GMTKN30 benchmark database, and on structural properties of semirigid medium-sized organic compounds. The SOS variant is revealed as a less computationally demanding alternative to reach the accuracy of the original QIDH model without losing any theoretical background.
Unscented transform-based uncertainty analysis of rotating coil transducers for field mapping
Authors: Arpaia P. , De Matteis E. , Schiano Lo Moriello R.
Published: March 2016

The uncertainty of a rotating coil transducer for magnetic field mapping is analyzed. Unscented transform and statistical design of experiments are combined to determine magnetic field expectation, standard uncertainty, and separate contributions of the uncertainty sources. For nonlinear measurement models, the unscented transform-based approach is more error-proof than the linearization underlying the “Guide to the expression of Uncertainty in Measurements” (GUMs), owing to the absence of model approximations and derivatives computation. When GUM assumptions are not met, the deterministic sampling strategy strongly reduces computational burden with respect to Monte Carlo-based methods proposed by the Supplement 1 of the GUM. Furthermore, the design of experiments and the associated statistical analysis allow the uncertainty sources domain to be explored efficiently, as well as their significance and single contributions to be assessed for an effective setup configuration. A straightforward experimental case study highlights that a one-order-of-magnitude reduction in the relative uncertainty of the coil area produces a decrease in uncertainty of the field mapping transducer by a factor of 25 with respect to the worst condition. Moreover, about 700 trials and the related processing achieve results corresponding to 5 × 106 brute-force Monte Carlo simulations.
Properties of density of modes in one dimensional magnetized plasma photonic crystals
Authors: Prasad S. , Sharma Y. , Shukla S. , Singh V.
Published: March 2016

The electromagnetic density of modes in a finite one dimensional magnetized plasma photonic crystal is computed using Wigner time approach. Structural parameters are varied to observe its effect on the density of modes. It is found that cyclotron frequency, collision frequency, incident angle, dielectric constant of constituent material, and filling factor of plasma strongly influence the value of density of modes on the band gap edges and in the mid frequency. It is observed that the value of density of modes at the left edge of the band gap is always higher than those at the right edge and in the midpoint of the band gap.
Temperature distribution in an ohmic-heated electrical contact at high signal frequencies
Authors: Timsit Roland S. , Luttgen Andrea
Published: March 2016

In classical contact theory, the temperature T of contact spots in an electrical interface passing a DC current is determined by the voltage drop V across the contact, i.e., the V-T relation. This paper reports on evaluations of the temperature distribution in a single circular contact spot in a copper-copper contact heated by an AC current. The steady-state maximum temperature was computed numerically for an AC electrical current of fixed amplitude and a frequency ranging from 100 Hz to 100 MHz. The computed temperature was compared with the predictions of the V-T relation.
Measuring magnetic field vector by stimulated Raman transitions
Authors: Wang Wenli , Dong Richang , Wei Rong , Lin Jinda , Zou Fan , Chen Tingting , Wang Yuzhu
Published: March 2016

We present a method for measuring the magnetic field vector in an atomic fountain by probing the line strength of stimulated Raman transitions. The relative line strength for a Λ-type level system with an existing magnetic field is theoretically analyzed. The magnetic field vector measured by our proposed method is consistent well with that by the traditional bias magnetic field method with an axial resolution of 6.1 mrad and a radial resolution of 0.16 rad. Dependences of the Raman transitions on laser polarization schemes are also analyzed. Our method offers the potential advantages for magnetic field measurement without requiring additional bias fields, beyond the limitation of magnetic field intensity, and extending the spatial measurement range. The proposed method can be widely used for measuring magnetic field vector in other precision measurement fields.
Equally sloped X-ray microtomography of living insects with low radiation dose and improved resolution capability
Authors: Yao Shengkun , Fan Jiadong , Zong Yunbing , He You , Zhou Guangzhao , Sun Zhibin , Zhang Jianhua , Huang Qingjie , Xiao Tiqiao , Jiang Huaidong
Published: March 2016

Three-dimensional X-ray imaging of living specimens is challenging due to the limited resolution of conventional absorption contrast X-ray imaging and potential irradiation damage of biological specimens. In this letter, we present microtomography of a living specimen combining phase-contrast imaging and a Fourier-based iterative algorithm termed equally sloped tomography. Non-destructive 3D imaging of an anesthetized living yellow mealworm Tenebrio molitor was demonstrated with a relatively low dose using synchrotron generated X-rays. Based on the high-quality 3D images, branching tracheoles and different tissues of the insect in a natural state were identified and analyzed, demonstrating a significant advantage of the technique over conventional X-ray radiography or histotomy. Additionally, the insect survived without problem after a 1.92-s X-ray exposure and subsequent absorbed radiation dose of ∼1.2 Gy. No notable physiological effects were observed after reviving the insect from anesthesia. The improved static tomographic method demonstrated in this letter shows advantage in the non-destructive structural investigation of living insects in three dimensions due to the low radiation dose and high resolution capability, and offers many potential applications in biological science.
Spin current transport in ceramic: TiN thin film
Authors: An Hongyu , Kanno Yusuke , Tashiro Takaharu , Nakamura Yoshio , Shi Ji , Ando Kazuya
Published: March 2016

The spin current transport property in a ceramic material TiN has been investigated at room temperature. By attaching TiN thin films on Ni20Fe80 with different thicknesses of TiN, the spin pumping experiment has been conducted, and the spin diffusion length in TiN was measured to be around 43 nm. Spin-torque ferromagnetic resonance has also been taken to investigate the spin Hall angle of TiN, which was estimated to be around 0.0052. This study on ceramic material provides a potential selection in emerging materials for spintronics application.
Upgraded metallurgical-grade silicon solar cells with efficiency above 20%
Authors: Zheng P. , Rougieux F. E. , Samundsett C. , Yang Xinbo , Wan Yimao , Degoulange J. , Einhaus R. , Rivat P. , Macdonald D.
Published: March 2016

We present solar cells fabricated with n-type Czochralski–silicon wafers grown with strongly compensated 100% upgraded metallurgical-grade feedstock, with efficiencies above 20%. The cells have a passivated boron-diffused front surface, and a rear locally phosphorus-diffused structure fabricated using an etch-back process. The local heavy phosphorus diffusion on the rear helps to maintain a high bulk lifetime in the substrates via phosphorus gettering, whilst also reducing recombination under the rear-side metal contacts. The independently measured results yield a peak efficiency of 20.9% for the best upgraded metallurgical-grade silicon cell and 21.9% for a control device made with electronic-grade float-zone silicon. The presence of boron-oxygen related defects in the cells is also investigated, and we confirm that these defects can be partially deactivated permanently by annealing under illumination.
Lifetime degradation and regeneration in multicrystalline silicon under illumination at elevated temperature
Authors: Bredemeier Dennis , Walter Dominic , Herlufsen Sandra , Schmidt Jan
Published: March 2016

We examine the carrier lifetime evolution of block-cast multicrystalline silicon (mc-Si) wafers under illumination (100 mW/cm2) at elevated temperature (75°C). Samples are treated with different process steps typically applied in industrial solar cell production. We observe a pronounced degradation in lifetime after rapid thermal annealing (RTA) at 900°C. However, we detect only a weak lifetime instability in mc-Si wafers which are RTA-treated at 650°C. After completion of the degradation, the lifetime is observed to recover and finally reaches carrier lifetimes comparable to the initial state. To explain the observed lifetime evolution, we suggest a defect model, where metal precipitates in the mc-Si bulk dissolve during the RTA treatment.
Comparative study of defect levels in GaInNAs, GaNAsSb, and GaInNAsSb for high-efficiency solar cells
Authors: Polojärvi Ville , Aho Arto , Tukiainen Antti , Schramm Andreas , Guina Mircea
Published: March 2016

Background doping and defect levels in GaInNAs, GaNAsSb, and GaInNAsSb solar cells with 1 eV band-gap are reported. Localized point defect induced traps were observed showing broadest defect distribution in GaInNAsSb. Incorporation of Sb reduced the unintentional p-type background doping by an order of magnitude, but increased the capture cross sections of deep levels by three orders of magnitude. The thermal activation energy of the dominating hole trap was increased from 350 meV for GaInNAs to 560 meV for GaNAsSb. Annealing of GaNAsSb solar cells improved the open circuit voltage from 280 mV to 415 mV, owing to the reduction in trap density.
Morphological dependent Indium incorporation in InGaN/GaN multiple quantum wells structure grown on 4° misoriented sapphire substrate
Authors: Jiang Teng , Xu Shengrui , Zhang Jincheng , Li Peixian , Huang Jun , Ren Zeyang , Zhu Jiaduo , Chen Zhibin , Zhao Ying , Hao Yue
Published: March 2016

The epitaxial layers of InGaN/GaN MQWs structure were grown on both planar and vicinal sapphire substrates by metal organic chemical vapor deposition. By comparing the epitaxial layers grown on planar substrate, the sample grown on 4° misoriented from c-plane toward <101̄0> m-plane substrate exhibited many variations both on surface morphology and optical properties according to the scanning electronic microscopy and cathodoluminescence (CL) spectroscopy results. Many huge steps were observed in the misoriented sample and a large amount of V-shape defects located around the boundary of the steps. Atoms force microscopy images show that the steps were inclined and deep grooves were formed at the boundary of the adjacent steps. Phase separation was observed in the CL spectra. CL mapping results also indicated that the deep grooves could effectively influence the localization of Indium atoms and form an In-rich region.
Neural basis of reward anticipation and its genetic determinants
Authors: Jia Tianye , Macare Christine , Desrivières Sylvane , Gonzalez Dante A. , Tao Chenyang , Ji Xiaoxi , Ruggeri Barbara , Nees Frauke , Banaschewski Tobias , Barker Gareth J. , Bokde Arun L. W. , Bromberg Uli , Büchel Christian , Conrod Patricia J. , Dove Rachel , Frouin Vincent , Gallinat Jürgen , Garavan Hugh , Gowland Penny A. , Heinz Andreas , Ittermann Bernd , Lathrop Mark , Lemaitre Hervé , Martinot Jean-Luc , Paus Tomáš , Pausova Zdenka , Poline Jean-Baptiste , Rietschel Marcella , Robbins Trevor , Smolka Michael N. , Müller Christian P. , Feng Jianfeng , Rothenfluh Adrian , Flor Herta , Schumann Gunter ,   the IMAGEN Consortium, Albrecht Lisa , Arroyo Mercedes , Artiges Eric , Aydin Semiha , Bach Christine , Banaschewski Tobias , Barbot Alexis , Barker Gareth , Bokde Arun , Bricaud Zuleima , Bromberg Uli , Bruehl Ruediger , Büchel Christian , Cattrell Anna , Conrod Patricia , Czech Katharina , Dalley Jeffrey , Desrivieres Sylvane , Fadai Tahmine , Flor Herta , Frouin Vincent , Gallinat Jürgen , Garavan Hugh , Gollier Briand Fanny , Gowland Penny , Heinrichs Bert , Heinz Andreas , Hübner Thomas , Ihlenfeld Albrecht , Ing Alex , Ittermann Bernd , Jia Tianye , Jones Jennifer , Kennedy Eleanor , Lanzerath Dirk , Lathrop Mark , Lawrence Claire , Lemaitre Hervé , Lüdemann Katharina , Macare Christine , Mann Karl , Mar Adam , Martinot Jean-Luc , Mennigen Eva , Mesquita de Carvahlo Fabiana , Müller Kathrin , Nees Frauke , Nymberg Charlotte , Paillere Marie-Laure , Paus Tomas , Pausova Zdenka , Poline Jean-Baptiste , Poustka Luise , Quinlan Erin , Reuter Jan , Ripke Stephan , Robbins Trevor , Robert Gabriel , Rodehacke Sarah , Ruggeri Barbara , Ruggeri Barbara , Schmidt Dirk , Schneider Sophia , Schubert Florian , Smolka Michael , Sommer Wolfgang , Spanagel Rainer , Speiser Claudia , Spranger Tade , Stedman Alicia , Stephens Dai , Strache Nicole , Ströhle Andreas , Struve Maren , Subramaniam Naresh , Tahmasebi Amir , Theobald David , Vetter Nora , Vulser Helene , Walaszek Bernadeta , Whelan Robert , Williams Steve , Xu Bing , Yacubian Juliana , Ziesch Veronika
Published: March 2016

Significance

We characterize in humans a coordinated network of brain activity describing neurobehavioral correlates of reward anticipation. The network involves nodes in striatal and cortical brain regions, which are preferentially associated with distinct externalizing behaviors—hyperactivity and alcohol consumption—suggesting that the heterogeneity of reward-related behaviors might be accounted for by different association patterns of nodes and their connecting links. In a genome-wide association study of the striatal node with subsequent functional validation in
Drosophila
, we identify molecular genetic mechanisms involving
vacuolar protein sorting-associated protein 4A
(
VPS4A
) in dopamine regulation, reward anticipation, and hyperactivity. Our approach might facilitate the identification of causal neural mechanisms, important for the identification of previously unidentified targets and the establishment of neurobehaviorally informed end points for clinical trials.
Functional identification of a neurocircuit regulating blood glucose
Authors: Meek Thomas H. , Nelson Jarrell T. , Matsen Miles E. , Dorfman Mauricio D. , Guyenet Stephan J. , Damian Vincent , Allison Margaret B. , Scarlett Jarrad M. , Nguyen Hong T. , Thaler Joshua P. , Olson David P. , Myers Martin G. , Schwartz Michael W. , Morton Gregory J.
Published: March 2016

Significance

Hypoglycemia is an important and frequently encountered complication of diabetes treatment. Here, we identify a subset of neurons located in the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus, activation of which is both necessary and sufficient to mediate adaptive counterregulatory responses to hypoglycemia that return low blood glucose levels into the normal range. These neurons receive ascending input from neurons in the lateral parabrachial nucleus and in turn control blood glucose levels via projections to the anterior bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. Together, this work identifies a previously unrecognized functional neurocircuit involved in glycemic control.
Spatial landmarks regulate a Cdc42-dependent MAPK pathway to control differentiation and the response to positional compromise
Authors: Basu Sukanya , Vadaie Nadia , Prabhakar Aditi , Li Boyang , Adhikari Hema , Pitoniak Andrew , Chow Jacky , Chavel Colin A. , Cullen Paul J.
Published: March 2016

Significance

We identify a new role for bud-site–selection proteins outside of their established roles in regulating growth site determination, as components of a surveillance pathway that monitors spatial position during intrinsic and extrinsic morphogenetic stress and regulates a Cdc42p- and MAPK-dependent response.
Manipulating spin-polarized photocurrents in 2D transition metal dichalcogenides
Authors: Xie Lu , Cui Xiaodong
Published: March 2016

Significance

Monolayer group VI transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) feature a massive Dirac fermion system with strong spin–valley locking. It provides a route to manipulate quantum states via the interplay of spin and valley degrees of freedom. Here we report that the spin polarization and spin–valley lifetime of free carriers are electrically detected via a spin–valve-like structure in monolayer TMDs. The long spin–valley lifetime (∼10
2
ns) of free carriers is electrically probed, contrasting to that of excitons (∼10
1
–10
2
ps) probed by optical spectroscopy. It demonstrates the potential application of 2D TMDs in nonmagnetic semiconductor-based spintronics.
Phase transitions in semidefinite relaxations
Authors: Javanmard Adel , Montanari Andrea , Ricci-Tersenghi Federico
Published: March 2016

Significance

Modern data analysis requires solving hard optimization problems with a large number of parameters and a large number of constraints. A successful approach is to replace these hard problems by surrogate problems that are convex and hence tractable. Semidefinite programming relaxations offer a powerful method to construct such relaxations. In many instances it was observed that a semidefinite relaxation becomes very accurate when the noise level in the data decreases below a certain threshold. We develop a new method to compute these noise thresholds (or phase transitions) using ideas from statistical physics.
Structural basis of rifampin inactivation by rifampin phosphotransferase
Authors: Qi Xiaofeng , Lin Wei , Ma Miaolian , Wang Chengyuan , He Yang , He Nisha , Gao Jing , Zhou Hu , Xiao Youli , Wang Yong , Zhang Peng
Published: March 2016

Significance

Rifampin phosphotransferases (RPH) belong to a recently identified antibiotic-resistance protein family that inactivates rifampin, the first-line drug against tuberculosis, by phosphorylation. By determining the structures of RPH from
Listeria monocytogenes
(LmRPH) in different conformations, we reveal a toggle-switch mechanism of the LmRPH catalytic process in which the C-terminal His domain swings between the ATP-binding domain and the rifampin-binding domain to transfer phosphate from ATP to rifampin. These structures explain the low substrate selectivity of RPH for the rifamycins. The residues involved in rifampin phosphorylation are identified also. The structural mechanism revealed in this study will guide the development of a new generation of rifamycins.
Invasive species triggers a massive loss of ecosystem services through a trophic cascade
Authors: Walsh Jake R. , Carpenter Stephen R. , Vander Zanden M. Jake
Published: March 2016

Significance

Invasive species represent a largely unquantified threat to ecosystem services. Although investment in the prevention of species invasions may sustain ecosystem services, these effects of invasions are rarely measured in monetary terms useful to decision makers. We quantify the economic damages of the degradation of an important ecosystem service, water clarity, caused by invasion by the spiny water flea. We find that the costs of restoring this service, US$86.5 million–US$163 million, are comparable with the willingness to pay for the service itself: US$140 million. This finding highlights the severity of invasive species’ impacts when their damages to ecosystem services are considered. Costs of invasive species’ secondary spread aggregated across many invasive species and ecosystem services may be large.
Suramin inhibits cullin-RING E3 ubiquitin ligases
Authors: Wu Kenneth , Chong Robert A. , Yu Qing , Bai Jin , Spratt Donald E. , Ching Kevin , Lee Chan , Miao Haibin , Tappin Inger , Hurwitz Jerard , Zheng Ning , Shaw Gary S. , Sun Yi , Felsenfeld Dan P. , Sanchez Roberto , Zheng Jun-nian , Pan Zhen-Qiang
Published: March 2016

Significance

Interactions between E2 and E3 enzymes are key for ubiquitination, but whether such a dynamic association is susceptible to perturbation by small-molecule modulators remains elusive. By demonstrating that suramin can inhibit cullin-RING E3 ubiquitin ligase by disrupting its ability to recruit E2 Cdc34, this work suggests that the E2–E3 interface may be druggable. In addition, suramin is an antitrypansomal drug that also possesses antitumor activity. Our findings have linked the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway to suramin and suggest additional biochemical mode of action for this century-old drug.
Origin of low sodium capacity in graphite and generally weak substrate binding of Na and Mg among alkali and alkaline earth metals
Authors: Liu Yuanyue , Merinov Boris V. , Goddard William A.
Published: March 2016

Significance

The growing demand for energy storage urges the development of alternative cation batteries, which calls for a systematic understanding of binding energetics. We discover a general phenomenon for binding of alkali and alkaline earth metal atoms with substrates, which is explained in a unified picture of chemical bonding. This allows us to solve the long-standing puzzle of low Na capacity in graphite and predict the trends of battery voltages, and also forms a basis for analyzing the binding of alkali and alkaline earth metal atoms over a broad range of systems.
Vertical distribution of saithe (Pollachius virens) aggregating around fish farms
Authors: Skilbrei O. T. , Otterå H.
Published: March 2016

Floating fish farm installations attract a number of marine species, probably because they provide both shelter and excess feed from the cages. Saithe are by far the most numerous fish visitors to fish farms on the Norwegian coast, and may gather in large numbers beneath the cages, but detailed knowledge of their swimming behaviour is limited. This study examined the vertical movements and distribution of saithe equipped with acoustic transmitters at 15 fish farms over a period of almost 2 years. The saithe aggregating around fish farms displayed behavioural patterns reported from saithe elsewhere; diel rhytms in vertical distribution, reduced activity level at night and seasonality in swimming depth. Typical residence depth was from 25 to 50 m in summer and 60 to 90 m during winter. However, an anomaly was observed, as fish moved 10–20 m closer to the surface during mid-winter. The reason for this is not known, but may be associated with the use of artificial light to illuminate the fish farm sea cages. The fish were usually distributed through ∼100 m of the water column. In 38% of the observations, there was no apparent diel vertical migration pattern, but 46% of the data showed fish either moved up or down during the daylight hours. Interindividual and intersite variability, in preferred night-resting depth, is a possible explanation for the differing vertical migratory patterns. Fish also moved away from fish farms in daytime (16% of all observations), probably to feed elsewhere. The results suggest that saithe establish core residence areas close to fish farms.
Fishing for function: the use of biological traits to evaluate the effects of multispecies fisheries on the functioning of fisheries assemblages
Authors: Koutsidi Martha , Tzanatos Evangelos , Machias Athanassios , Vassilopoulou Vassiliki
Published: March 2016

The Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management claims that fisheries management should take into account the ecosystem processes; in that context, it is useful to examine the functional traits of fisheries assemblages. This can be a challenge in multispecies fisheries. We used 21 biological traits of 86 species to investigate the relationship between-species and trait composition and to identify species with rare functional traits. Combining these traits with two catch datasets from the eastern Mediterranean (Patraikos Gulf: small-scale fleet, eastern Ionian Sea: entire multispecies fleet), we investigated whether certain fishing tactics or gears tend to remove specific traits, using multivariate methodologies. Species and traits composition of the catches were related, but an important part of trait variability was not explained by species composition. Rare traits and trait combinations were found for important target or bycatch species. Differences in the traits composition of fishing operations were revealed both between fishing tactics (Patraikos) as well as gears and areas (eastern Ionian); hierarchical clustering and MDS indicated the distinction of purse-seine catches at gear level. SIMPER analysis by trait indicated associations of certain trait categories mainly with purse-seines (at gear level) and longline métiers and a trammel-net métier (at métier level). The identification of rare traits or their combinations can have significant management implications as overfishing of the species with these traits could result in altering assemblage functioning. It seems that the multispecies character of the benthic fisheries results in a balanced trait removal, while management should regulate the effects of purse-seine fisheries on the fisheries assemblage functioning. Further investigation of the functions that fishing may remove from the ecosystem could contribute to understanding the effects of fishing and reveal overlooked aspects useful for the improvement of fisheries management.
Is the problem list in the eye of the beholder? An exploration of consistency across physicians
Authors: Krauss John C , Boonstra Philip S , Vantsevich Anna V , Friedman Charles P
Published: March 2016

Objective Quantify the variability of patients’ problem lists – in terms of the number, type, and ordering of problems – across multiple physicians and assess physicians’ criteria for organizing and ranking diagnoses.

Materials and Methods In an experimental setting, 32 primary care physicians generated and ordered problem lists for three identical complex internal medicine cases expressed as detailed 2- to 4-page abstracts and subsequently expressed their criteria for ordering items in the list. We studied variability in problem list length. We modified a previously validated rank-based similarity measure, with range of zero to one, to quantify agreement between pairs of lists and calculate a single consensus problem list that maximizes agreement with each physician. Physicians’ reasoning for the ordering of the problem lists was recorded.

Results Subjects’ problem lists were highly variable. The median problem list length was 8 (range: 3–14) for Case A, 10 (range: 4–20) for Case B, and 7 (range: 3–13) for Case C. The median indices of agreement – taking into account the length, content, and order of lists – over all possible physician pairings was 0.479, 0.371, 0.509, for Cases A, B, and C, respectively. The median agreements between the physicians’ lists and the consensus list for each case were 0.683, 0.581, and 0.697 (for Cases A, B, and C, respectively).Out of a possible 1488 pairings, 2 lists were identical. Physicians most frequently ranked problem list items based on their acuity and immediate threat to health.

Conclusions The problem list is a physician’s mental model of a patient’s health status. These mental models were found to vary significantly between physicians, raising questions about whether problem lists created by individual physicians can serve their intended purpose to improve care coordination.
Could multiple voids explain the cosmic microwave background Cold Spot anomaly?
Authors: Naidoo Krishna , Benoit-Lévy Aurélien , Lahav Ofer
Published: March 2016

Understanding the observed Cold Spot (CS, temperature of ∼ − 150 μK at its centre) on the cosmic microwave background is an outstanding problem. Explanations vary from assuming it is just a ≳3σ primordial Gaussian fluctuation to the imprint of a supervoid via the Integrated Sachs–Wolfe and Rees–Sciama (ISW+RS) effects. Since single spherical supervoids cannot account for the full profile, the ISW+RS of multiple line-of-sight voids is studied here to mimic the structure of the cosmic web. Two structure configurations are considered. The first, through simulations of 20 voids, produces a central mean temperature of ∼ − 50 μK. In this model the central CS temperature lies at ∼2σ but fails to explain the CS hot ring. An alternative multivoid model (using more pronounced compensated voids) produces much smaller temperature profiles, but contains a prominent hot ring. Arrangements containing closely placed voids at low redshift are found to be particularly well suited to produce CS-like profiles. We then measure the significance of the CS if CS-like profiles (which are fitted to the ISW+RS of multivoid scenarios) are removed. The CS tension with the Λ cold dark matter model can be reduced dramatically for an array of temperature profiles smaller than the CS itself.
Effect of Genotype and Growth Temperature on Sorghum Grain Physical Characteristics, Polyphenol Content, and Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Wu Gangcheng , Johnson Stuart K. , Bornman Janet F. , Bennett Sarita , Singh Vijaya , Fang Zhongxiang
Published: March 2016

This paper reports how genotype and growth temperature affect the physical characteristics and polyphenol content in sorghum grains. Two day/night temperature regimes, 32/21 and 38/21°C, were used to grow six sorghum genotypes (CCH1, CCH2, AQL33/QL36, Ai4, PI563516, and IS 8525). The physical characteristics (hardness, weight, and diameter) of sorghum grain and their free, bound, and total polyphenol contents were determined. Grain antioxidant activity was evaluated by 2,2′‐azinobis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) diammonium salt and 2‐2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl assays. The results indicate that the weight and diameter of the sorghum kernels were significantly increased in all genotypes except for CCH1, under higher temperature, whereas kernel hardness decreased. Genotype had a significant influence polyphenol content (IS 8525 about four times higher than PI563516 under optimum temperature) and antioxidant activity, but temperature did not, with the exception of IS 8525 in which polyphenol content (reduced by about 10%) and antioxidant activity were lower at the high temperature. Polyphenol content was strongly positively correlated with antioxidant activity. This research provides valuable information on the properties of different sorghum genotypes under expected future increased temperatures that may be of value for varietal selection for specific end use.
Feruloylated Wheat Bran Arabinoxylans: Isolation and Characterization of Acetylated and O–2‐Monosubstituted Structures
Authors: Schendel Rachel R. , Puchbauer Ann‐Katrin , Britscho Natalie , Bunzel Mirko
Published: March 2016

Arabinoxylan structures vary based on the degree and pattern of substitution of the β‐(1→4)‐linked d‐xylopyranose backbone with α‐l‐arabinofuranose units, acetyl groups, uronic acids, and feruloylated side chains. Substitution differences affect arabinoxylans’ physicochemical and physiological characteristics. Wheat bran arabinoxylans were hydrolyzed with GH10 and GH11 endo‐1,4‐β‐xylanases, and feruloylated oligosaccharides were isolated and purified (Amberlite XAD‐2 isolation, Sephadex LH‐20 gel permeation chromatography, and preparative reversed‐phase HPLC). The pure, isolated compounds were structurally characterized via liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–mass spectrometry and one‐dimensional and two‐dimensional NMR analyses. In addition to the well‐known products of endo‐xylanase hydrolysis (xylotriose and xylobiose O–3‐substituted with a 5‐O‐trans‐feruloyl‐α‐arabinofuranosyl unit on the middle and nonreducing xylose residue, respectively), novel structural features, including O–2‐monosubstitution of xylose adjacent to a xylose carrying feruloylated arabinose, were observed. Additionally, a simultaneously acetylated and feruloylated oligosaccharide has been isolated and tentatively characterized. Oligosaccharides esterified with caffeic acid were also isolated, but these were proven to result, at least in part, as artifacts of the enzymatic hydrolysis.
Relationship of Soil Properties and Sugarcane Yields to Red Stripe in Louisiana
Authors: Johnson Richard M. , Grisham Michael P. , Warnke Kathryn Z. , Maggio Jeri R.
Published: March 2016

Symptoms of red stripe disease caused by Acidovorax avenae subsp. avenae in Louisiana between 1985 and 2010 were limited to the leaf stripe form, which caused no apparent yield loss. During 2010, the more severe top rot form was observed, and a study was initiated to investigate the distribution of red stripe in the field and determine its effects on cane and sugar yields. Soil properties data, red stripe incidence, and sugarcane yields were all highly variable and were not randomly distributed in the field. Combined harvest data showed a negative correlation between yield components and red stripe incidence, with the strongest relationship between sucrose per metric ton and disease incidence. Red stripe incidence was positively correlated with several soil properties, including phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and calcium. Red stripe incidence also was found to increase with increasing nitrogen rate, with the greatest effects in heavy soils. Results also indicated that using red-stripe-infected cane as a seed source can significantly decrease shoot emergence, stalk population, and subsequent cane and sugar yields. These combined data suggest that red stripe disease can exhibit a highly variable rate of infection in commercial sugarcane fields and may also significantly decrease sugar yields.
A Genome-Wide Association Study for Partial Resistance to Maize Common Rust
Authors: Olukolu Bode A. , Tracy William F. , Wisser Randall , De Vries Brian , Balint-Kurti Peter J.
Published: March 2016

Quantitative resistance to maize common rust (causal agent Puccinia sorghi) was assessed in an association mapping population of 274 diverse inbred lines. Resistance to common rust was found to be moderately correlated with resistance to three other diseases and with the severity of the hypersensitive defense response previously assessed in the same population. Using a mixed linear model accounting for the confounding effects of population structure and flowering time, genome-wide association tests were performed based at 246,497 single-nucleotide polymorphism loci. Three loci associated with maize common rust resistance were identified. Candidate genes at each locus had predicted roles, mainly in cell wall modification. Other candidate genes included a resistance gene and a gene with a predicted role in regulating accumulation of reactive oxygen species.
Influence of Diaphragmatic Motion on Inferior Vena Cava Diameter Respiratory Variations in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Gignon Lucile , Roger Claire , Bastide Sophie , Alonso Sandrine , Zieleskiewicz Laurent , Quintard Hervé , Zoric Lana , Bobbia Xavier , Raux Mathieu , Leone Marc , Lefrant Jean-Yves , Muller Laurent
Published: March 2016

AbstractAbstract

In 52 spontaneously breathing healthy adults, respiratory variation of collapsibility of central vena cava (cIVC) was associated with inspiratory effort and diaphragmatic motion. This study identified a gray zone of the diaphragmatic motion ranging from 25 to 43 mm for predicting cIVC more than or equal to 40%. This study suggests, although not tested, inaccuracy of cIVC for determining fluid responsiveness when the diaphragmatic motion is more than 25 mm.

Background

The collapsibility index of inferior vena cava (cIVC) is widely used to decide fluid infusion in spontaneously breathing intensive care unit patients. The authors hypothesized that high inspiratory efforts may induce false-positive high cIVC values. This study aims at determining a value of diaphragmatic motion recorded by echography that could predict a high cIVC (more than or equal to 40%) in healthy volunteers.

Methods

The cIVC and diaphragmatic motions were recorded for three levels of inspiratory efforts. Right and left diaphragmatic motions were defined as the maximal diaphragmatic excursions. Receiver operating characteristic curves evaluated the performance of right diaphragmatic motion to predict a cIVC more than or equal to 40% defining the best cutoff value.

Results

Among 52 included volunteers, interobserver reproducibility showed a generalized concordance correlation coefficient (ρc) above 0.9 for all echographic parameters. Right diaphragmatic motion correlated with cIVC (r = 0.64, P < 0.0001). Univariate analyses did not show association between cIVC and age, sex, weight, height, or body mass index. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves for cIVC more than or equal to 40% was 0.87 (95% CI, 0.81 to 0.93). The best diaphragmatic motion cutoff was 28 mm (Youden Index, 0.65) with sensitivity of 89% and specificity of 77%. The gray zone area was 25 to 43 mm.

Conclusions

Inferior vena cava collapsibility is affected by diaphragmatic motion. During low inspiratory effort, diaphragmatic motion was less than 25 mm and predicted a cIVC less than 40%. During maximal inspiratory effort, diaphragmatic motion was more than 43 mm and predicted a cIVC more than 40%. When diaphragmatic motion ranged from 25 to 43 mm, no conclusion on cIVC value could be done.
Irisin Increased the Number and Improved the Function of Endothelial Progenitor Cells in Diabetes Mellitus Mice
Authors: Zhu Guangxu , Wang Jinxiang , Song Mingbao , Zhou Fang , Fu Dagan , Ruan Guangping , Zhu Xiangqing , Bai Yinyin , Huang Lan , Pang Rongqing , Kang Huali , Pan Xinghua
Published: March 2016

The dysfunction of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) was found to be associated with vascular complications in diabetes mellitus (DM) patients. Previous studies found that regular exercise could improve the function of EPCs in DM patients, but the underling mechanism was unclear. Irisin, a newly identified myokine, was induced by exercise and has been demonstrated to mediate some of the positive effects of exercise. In this study, we hypothesize that irisin may have direct effects on EPC function in DM mice. These data showed for the first time that irisin increased the number of EPCs in peripheral blood of DM mice and improved the function of EPCs derived from DM mice bone marrow. The mechanism for the effect of irisin is related to the PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway. Furthermore, irisin was demonstrated to improve endothelial repair in DM mice that received EPC transplants after carotid artery injury. The results of this study indicate a novel effect of irisin in regulating the number and function of EPCs via the PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway, suggesting a potential for the administration of exogenous irisin as a succedaneum to improve EPC function in diabetic patients who fail to achieve such improvements through regular exercise.
Mean Platelet Volume, Red Cell Distribution Width to Platelet Count Ratio, Globulin Platelet Index, and 16 Other Indirect Noninvasive Fibrosis Scores
Authors: Thandassery Ragesh B. , Al Kaabi Saad , Soofi Madiha E. , Mohiuddin Syed A. , John Anil K. , Al Mohannadi Muneera , Al Ejji Khalid , Yakoob Rafie , Derbala Moutaz F. , Wani Hamidullah , Sharma Manik , Al Dweik Nazeeh , Butt Mohammed T. , Kamel Yasser M. , Sultan Khaleel , Pasic Fuad , Singh Rajvir
Published: March 2016

Background and Aim:

Many indirect noninvasive scores to predict liver fibrosis are calculated from routine blood investigations. Only limited studies have compared their efficacy head to head. We aimed to compare these scores with liver biopsy fibrosis stages in patients with chronic hepatitis C.

Materials and Methods:

From blood investigations of 1602 patients with chronic hepatitis C who underwent a liver biopsy before initiation of antiviral treatment, 19 simple noninvasive scores were calculated. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves and diagnostic accuracy of each of these scores were calculated (with reference to the Scheuer staging) and compared.

Results:

The mean age of the patients was 41.8±9.6 years (1365 men). The most common genotype was genotype 4 (65.6%). Significant fibrosis, advanced fibrosis, and cirrhosis were seen in 65.1%, 25.6, and 6.6% of patients, respectively. All the scores except the aspartate transaminase (AST) alanine transaminase ratio, Pohl score, mean platelet volume, fibro-alpha, and red cell distribution width to platelet count ratio index showed high predictive accuracy for the stages of fibrosis. King’s score (cutoff, 17.5) showed the highest predictive accuracy for significant and advanced fibrosis. King’s score, Göteborg university cirrhosis index, APRI (the AST/platelet count ratio index), and Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) had the highest predictive accuracy for cirrhosis, with the APRI (cutoff, 2) and FIB-4 (cutoff, 3.25) showing the highest diagnostic accuracy.

We derived the study score 8.5 − 0.2(albumin, g/dL) +0.01(AST, IU/L) −0.02(platelet count, 109/L), which at a cutoff of >4.7 had a predictive accuracy of 0.868 (95% confidence interval, 0.833-0.904) for cirrhosis.

Conclusions:

King’s score for significant and advanced fibrosis and the APRI or FIB-4 score for cirrhosis could be the best simple indirect noninvasive scores.
Utility of Emergency Department Use of Abdominal Pelvic Computed Tomography in the Management of Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Koliani-Pace Jenna , Vaughn Byron , Herzig Shoshana J. , Davis Roger B. , Gashin Laurie , Obuch Joshua , Cheifetz Adam S.
Published: March 2016

Goal:

The primary aim of this study was to determine predictors of clinically significant computed tomography (CT) scans, paying particular attention to findings of previous CT scans.

Background:

Use of CT to assess patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) in the Emergency Department (ED) is both costly and exposes patients to high levels of ionizing radiation while not clearly improving outcomes.

Study:

Patients with CD who underwent CT scan in the Emergency Department from 2008 to 2011 at a tertiary referral center were assessed for clinically significant findings. A multivariable generalized estimating equation model with logit link and exchangeable working correlation structure was constructed to assess for independent predictors of CT scans with clinically significant findings.

Results:

A total of 118 patients with CD underwent 194 CT scans. Ninety-two of 194 (47%) CT scans demonstrated clinically significant findings. Predictors of clinically significant CT scans included ileal disease involvement [odds ratios (OR) 3.47, P=0.01] and white blood cell count >12 (OR 2.1, P=0.03). Most notably, patients with a CT scan without clinically significant findings performed in the preceding month were significantly less likely to have a clinically significant CT scan (OR 0.23, P=0.005).

Conclusions:

Patients with CD who had a CT scan without significant findings the month prior are unlikely to have clinically significant CT findings. Ileal disease and an elevated white blood cell are predictive of clinically significant CT scans.
Effect of Direct Glare on Orbicularis Oculi and Trapezius During Computer Reading
Authors: Mork Randi , Bruenech Jan Richard , Thorud Hanne Mari Schiøtz
Published: March 2016

Purpose

Unfavorable visual conditions during computer work may affect development of both eyestrain and musculoskeletal pain in the neck and shoulder area. The aim of the study was to investigate how direct glare affects symptom development, muscle activity, and muscle blood flow in m. orbicularis oculi and m. trapezius during reading on a computer screen.

Methods

Fifteen healthy young adults with normal binocular vision read text on a computer screen at an optimized computer workplace, 30 minutes with glare exposure and 30 minutes with appropriate lighting. Postural angles were continuously registered. Development of eye symptoms and musculoskeletal pain in the neck and shoulder area were recorded using VAS scales. Muscle activity and muscle blood flow were measured continuously using electromyography and photoplethysmography, respectively.

Results

Glare exposure resulted in significantly more pronounced eye pain, increased orbicularis muscle activity, and increased trapezius blood flow compared to reading with appropriate lighting. There were no significant differences in posture between the two light conditions. There were also significant associations between orbicularis oculi activity and both trapezius blood flow and neck pain during both conditions.

Conclusions

Results from the current study show that direct glare conditions cause increased eyestrain and orbicularis oculi contraction during reading on a computer screen. This study also indicates that exposure to direct glare affects the trapezius muscle, possibly by an interaction between the visual system, sympathetic nervous system, and head-stabilizing muscles. In addition, there were associations between the use of orbicularis oculi, trapezius blood flow, and development of neck pain independent of the lighting.