bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local adaptation despite high gene flow in the waterfall‐climbing Hawaiian goby,Sicyopterus stimpsoni
Authors: Moody K. N. , Hunter S. N. , Childress M. J. , Blob R. W. , Schoenfuss H. L. , Blum M. J. , Ptacek M. B.
Published: November 2014

Environmental heterogeneity can promote the emergence of locally adapted phenotypes among subpopulations of a species, whereas gene flow can result in phenotypic and genotypic homogenization. For organisms like amphidromous fishes that change habitats during their life history, the balance between selection and migration can shift through ontogeny, making the likelihood of local adaptation difficult to predict. In Hawaiian waterfall‐climbing gobies, it has been hypothesized that larval mixing during oceanic dispersal counters local adaptation to contrasting topographic features of streams, like slope gradient, that can select for predator avoidance or climbing ability in juvenile recruits. To test this hypothesis, we used morphological traits and neutral genetic markers to compare phenotypic and genotypic distributions in recruiting juveniles and adult subpopulations of the waterfall‐climbing amphidromous goby,Sicyopterus stimpsoni,from the islands of Hawai'i and Kaua'i. We found that body shape is significantly different between adult subpopulations from streams with contrasting slopes and that trait divergence in recruiting juveniles tracked stream topography more so than morphological measures of adult subpopulation differentiation. Although no evidence of population genetic differentiation was observed among adult subpopulations, we observed low but significant levels of spatially and temporally variable genetic differentiation among juvenile cohorts, which correlated with morphological divergence. Such a pattern of genetic differentiation is consistent with chaotic genetic patchiness arising from variable sources of recruits to different streams. Thus, at least inS. stimpsoni, the combination of variation in settlement cohorts in space and time coupled with strong postsettlement selection on juveniles as they migrate upstream to adult habitats provides the opportunity for morphological adaptation to local stream environments despite high gene flow.
Optimization of pyrethroid and repellent on fabrics against Stegomyia albopicta (=Aedes albopictus) using a microencapsulation technique
Authors: YAO T.‐T. , WANG L.‐K. , CHENG J.‐L. , HU Y.‐Z. , ZHAO J.‐H. , ZHU G.‐N.
Published: November 2014

A new approach employing a combination of pyrethroid and repellent is proposed to improve the protective efficacy of conventional pyrethroid‐treated fabrics against mosquito vectors. In this context, the insecticidal and repellent efficacies of commonly used pyrethroids and repellents were evaluated by cone tests and arm‐in‐cage tests against Stegomyia albopicta (=Aedes albopictus) (Diptera: Culicidae). At concentrations of LD50 (estimated for pyrethroid) or ED50 (estimated for repellent), respectively, the knock‐down effects of the pyrethroids or repellents were further compared. The results obtained indicated that deltamethrin and DEET were relatively more effective and thus these were selected for further study. Synergistic interaction was observed between deltamethrin and DEET at the ratios of 5 : 1, 2 : 1, 1 : 1 and 1 : 2 (but not 1 : 5). An optimal mixing ratio of 7 : 5 was then microencapsulated and adhered to fabrics using a fixing agent. Fabrics impregnated by microencapsulated mixtures gained extended washing durability compared with those treated with a conventional dipping method. Results indicated that this approach represents a promising method for the future impregnation of bednet, curtain and combat uniform materials.
Aggregated and complementary: symmetric proliferation, overyielding, and mass effects explain fine‐root biomass in soil patches in a diverse temperate deciduous forest landscape
Authors: Valverde‐Barrantes Oscar J. , Smemo Kurt A. , Feinstein Larry M. , Kershner Mark W. , Blackwood Christopher B.
Published: November 2014

Few studies describe root distributions at the species level in diverse forests, although belowground species interactions and traits are often assumed to affect fine‐root biomass (FRB).

We used molecular barcoding to study how FRB of trees relates to soil characteristics, species identity, root diversity, and root traits, and how these relationships are affected by proximity to ecotones in a temperate forest landscape.

We found that soil patch root biomass increased in response to soil resources across all species, and there was little belowground vertical or horizontal spatial segregation among species. Root traits and species relative abundance did not explain significant variation in FRB after correcting for soil fertility. A positive relationship between phylogenetic diversity and FRB indicated significant belowground overyielding attributable to local root diversity. Finally, variation in FRB explained by soil fertility and diversity was reduced near ecotones, but only because of a reduction in biomass in periodically anoxic areas.

These results suggest that symmetric responses to soil properties are coupled with complementary species traits and interactions to explain variation in FRB among soil patches. In addition, landscape‐level dispersal among habitats and across ecotones helps explain variation in the strength of these relationships in complex landscapes.
Identification of Long Noncoding RNA Associated with Osteoarthritis in Humans
Authors: Xing Dan , Liang Jin‐qian , Li Yan , Lu Jun , Jia Hao‐bo , Xu Li‐yan , Ma Xin‐long
Published: November 2014

Objective

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are an important class of genes involved in various biological functions; however, knowledge about lncRNAs in osteoarthritis (OA) is limited. Therefore, the present study aimed to identify which lncRNAs are expressed in OA versus normal cartilage.

Methods

To identify lncRNAs specifically expressed in OA cartilage, expression of lncRNAs in OA cartilage was compared with that in normal cartilage using microarray analysis. The identified differences in expression of lncRNAs were validated by real time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). Furthermore, expression of several key mRNAs associated with OA, including those for matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐9, MMP‐13, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)‐2, COL2A1 and ADAMTS5, was investigated by RT‐PCR in OA and normal cartilage.

Results

Microarray analysis identified 121 lncRNAs that were up‐ or down‐regulated in OA compared with normal tissue, 73 being upregulated and 48 downregulated compared with normal cartilage. Twenty‐one of the above differently expressed lncRNAs were up‐regulated twofold. Expression of six lncRNAs, including HOTAIR, GAS5, PMS2L2, RP11‐445H22.4, H19 and CTD‐2574D22.4, was up‐regulated in OA compared with normal tissue as validated by RT‐PCR after microarray analysis. Expression of mRNA for MMP‐9, MMP‐13, BMP‐2, and ADAMTS5 in OA was significantly greater than in normal cartilage. However, expression of mRNA for COL2A1 was lower in OA than in normal cartilage.

Conclusion

The differently expressed lncRNAs may be associated with the pathogenesis of OA. Further functional studies are critical to confirming the function of lncRNAs in OA and to exploring new potential targets for therapy.
Scar Characteristics for Prediction of Ventricular Arrhythmia in Ischemic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: GOUDA SHERIF , ABDELWAHAB AMIR , SALEM MOHAMED , HAMID MAGDY ABDEL
Published: November 2014

Background

Better risk‐stratification tools are needed to identify the best candidates for implantable cardioverter defibrillator implantation. Infarct characterization by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) has become an evolving potential tool for risk stratification.

Objective

We assessed the ability of scar characteristics by CMR in patients with postinfarction left ventricular (LV) dysfunction to predict sustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia (SMVT).

Methods

Forty‐eight patients with postinfarction LV dysfunction underwent CMR study. Twenty‐four patients had history of SMVT and the other 24 were control group and underwent electrophysiological study to assess SMVT inducibilty. Various scar characteristics were assessed in the spontaneous SMVT group and were compared with the inducible and noninducible SMVT groups.

Results

Only six patients in the control group had inducible SMVT. In univariable analysis, total scar (absolute and as percent of LV), scar core (absolute and as percent of LV), peri‐infarct zone (absolute and as percent of LV), mean infarct transmurality, and number of segments with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) were statistically significant predictors of spontaneous SMVT experience and SMVT inducibility. In multivariable analysis, total infarct as percent of LV mass was the only significant independent predictor of spontaneous SMVT experience (odds ratio [OR] 1.33 per% change, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12–1.6, P = 0.001) and SMVT inducibility (OR 1.3 per% change, 95% CI 1.1–1.6, P = 0.004).

Conclusion

Characterization of myocardial infarct by LGE‐CMR, specifically total infarct size, is better predictor of spontaneous SMVT experience and SMVT inducibility than LV ejection fraction.
Variable agreement among experts regarding Mycobacterium avium complex lung disease
Authors: Marras Theodore K. , Prevots D. Rebecca , Jamieson Frances B. , Winthrop Kevin L. ,   the Pulmonary MAC Outcomes Group
Published: November 2014

Data regarding many clinical aspects of pulmonary Mycobacterium avium complex (pMAC) are lacking. Guidelines rely substantially upon expert opinion, integrated through face‐to‐face meetings, variably weighting individual opinions. We surveyed North American non‐tuberculous mycobacteria experts regarding clinical aspects of pMAC using Delphi methods. Nineteen of 26 invited experts (73%) responded, with extensive variability. Convergence could not be reached for most questions. Respondents described extensive uncertainty around specific issues. Findings underscore urgent need for more research.
Fiscal Balance and Current Account in Professional Forecasts
Authors: Bianchi Paolo , Deschamps Bruno , Kiani Khurshid M.
Published: November 2014

This paper investigates the relationship between financial institutions' expectations of the current account and the fiscal balance. Using professional macroeconomic forecasts for the G‐7 countries, we find a positive relationship between forecasts of the cyclically adjusted fiscal balance deficit and forecasts of the current account deficit, indicating that professional forecasts embody links implied by the twin deficits hypothesis. In assessing the relationship between the forecasts of the fiscal deficit and the current account, we find that forecasters correctly make the distinction between the effect of fiscal policy and automatic stabilizers.
Antimicrobial Usage in Chicken Production in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam
Authors: Carrique‐Mas Juan J , Trung Nguyen V. , Hoa Ngo T. , Mai Ho Huynh , Thanh Tuyen H. , Campbell James I. , Wagenaar Jaap A. , Hardon Anita , Hieu Thai Quoc , Schultsz Constance
Published: November 2014

Antimicrobials are used extensively in chicken production in Vietnam, but to date no quantitative data are available. A 2012–2013 survey of 208 chicken farms in Tien Giang province, stratified by size (10–200 chickens; >200–2000), was carried out to describe and quantify the use of antibacterial antimicrobials (usage per week per chicken and usage per 1000 chickens produced) in the Mekong Delta and to investigate factors associated with usage. Twenty‐eight types of antimicrobial belonging to 10 classes were reported. Sixty‐three per cent of all commercial formulations contained at least two antimicrobials. On 84% occasions, antimicrobials were administered with a prophylactic purpose. The overall adjusted quantities of antimicrobials used/week/chicken and per 1000 chickens produced (g) were 26.36 mg (SE ± 3.54) and 690.4 g (SE ± 203.6), respectively. Polypeptides, tetracyclines, penicillins and aminoglycosides were the antimicrobials used by most farms (18.6% farms, 17.5%, 11.3% and 10.1% farms, respectively), whereas penicillins, lincosamides, quinolones, and sulphonamides/trimethoprim were quantitatively the most used compounds (8.27, 5.2, 3.16 and 2.78 mg per week per chicken, respectively). Factors statistically associated with higher levels of usage (per week per chicken) were meat farms (OR = 1.40) and farms run by a male farmer (OR = 2.0). All‐in‐all‐out farming systems (correlated with medium farms) were associated with reduced levels of antimicrobial usage (OR = 0.68). Usage levels to produced meat chickens were considerably higher than those reported in European countries. This should trigger the implementation of surveillance programmes to monitor sales of antimicrobials that should contribute to the rational administration of antimicrobials in order to preserve the efficacy of existing antimicrobials in Vietnam.
Measurements of Hub Flow Interaction on Film Cooled Nozzle Guide Vane in Transonic Annular Cascade
Authors: El-Gabry Lamyaa A. , Saha Ranjan , Fridh Jens , Fransson Torsten
Published: November 2014

An experimental study has been performed in a transonic annular sector cascade of nozzle guide vanes (NGVs) to investigate the aerodynamic performance and the interaction between hub film cooling and mainstream flow. The focus of the study is on the endwalls, specifically the interaction between the hub film cooling and the mainstream. Carbon dioxide (CO2) has been supplied to the coolant holes to serve as tracer gas. Measurements of CO2 concentration downstream of the vane trailing edge (TE) can be used to visualize the mixing of the coolant flow with the mainstream. Flow field measurements are performed in the downstream plane with a five-hole probe to characterize the aerodynamics in the vane. Results are presented for the fully cooled and partially cooled vane (only hub cooling) configurations. Data presented at the downstream plane include concentration contour, axial vorticity, velocity vectors, and yaw and pitch angles. From these investigations, secondary flow structures such as the horseshoe vortex, passage vortex, can be identified and show the cooling flow significantly impacts the secondary flow and downstream flow field. The results suggest that there is a region on the pressure side (PS) of the vane TE where the coolant concentrations are very low suggesting that the cooling air introduced at the platform upstream of the leading edge (LE) does not reach the PS endwall, potentially creating a local hotspot.
Efficient State Reference Generation for Torque Control in Externally Excited Synchronous Machines
Authors: Carpiuc Sabin-Constantin , Lazar Mircea
Published: November 2014

A relevant challenge in hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and full EVs is the torque control of externally excited synchronous machines (EESMs). Effective torque control requires an efficient solution to the state reference generation problem, which is a nonlinear nonconvex optimization problem. The goal of this paper is to develop a state reference generation algorithm based on the gridding of the state and output spaces. First, an approximation defined over a cubic partition of the torque function with a piecewise affine (PWA) function is made. As a result, the state reference generation problem is reduced in each cube to solving a convex optimization problem. Moreover, this approach provides guarantees about the error bound introduced by the state reference generation procedure for the full operational state-space. To illustrate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed algorithm, several real-time results obtained on an industrial hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) test-bench are presented. The obtained results show significant improvement compared with existing state-of-the-art reference generation methods.
Mechanics of Nanocrystalline Particles With the Distinct Element Method
Authors: Ostanin Igor , Wang Yuezhou , Ni Yuxiang , Dumitricǎ Traian
Published: November 2014

In geomechanics and civil engineering, the distinct element method (DEM) is employed in a top-down manner to simulate problems involving mechanics of granular media. Because this particle-based method is well adapted to discontinuities, we propose here to adapt DEM at the mesoscale in order to simulate the mechanics of nanocrystalline structures. The modeling concept is based on the representation of crystalline nanograins as mesoscopic distinct elements. The elasticity, plasticity, and fracture processes occurring at the interfaces are captured with contact models of interaction between elements. Simulations that rely on the fitting of the peak stress, strain, and failure mode on the experimental testing of Au and CdS hollow nanocrystalline particles illustrate the promising potential of mesoscopic DEM for bridging the atomistic-scale simulations with experimental testing data.
Fault Reconstruction and Accommodation in Linear Parameter-Varying Systems via Learning Unknown-Input Observers
Authors: Jia Qingxian , Chen Wen , Zhang Yingchun , Chen Xueqin
Published: November 2014

This paper addresses the problem of observer-based fault reconstruction and accommodation for polytopic linear parameter-varying (LPV) systems. A polytopic representation of an LPV system subject to actuator faults and external disturbances is first established; then, a novel polytopic learning unknown-input observer (LUIO) is constructed for simultaneous state estimation and robust fault reconstruction. The stability of the presented LUIO is proved using Lyapunov stability theory together with H∞ techniques. Further, using reconstructed fault information, a reconfigurable fault-tolerant controller is designed to compensate for the influence of actuator faults by stabilizing the closed-loop system. At last, an aircraft example is employed to illustrate the effectiveness and practicability of the proposed techniques.
Experimental Validation of a Volumetric Planetary Rover Wheel/Soil Interaction Model
Authors: Petersen Willem , McPhee John
Published: November 2014

For the multibody simulation of planetary rover operations, a wheel–soil contact model is necessary to represent the forces and moments between the tire and the soft soil. A novel nonlinear contact modeling approach based on the properties of the hypervolume of interpenetration is validated in this paper. This normal contact force model is based on the Winkler foundation model with nonlinear spring properties. To fully define the proposed normal contact force model for this application, seven parameters are required. Besides the geometry parameters that can be easily measured, three soil parameters representing the hyperelastic and plastic properties of the soil have to be identified. Since it is very difficult to directly measure the latter set of soil parameters, they are identified by comparing computer simulations with experimental results of drawbar pull tests performed under different slip conditions on the Juno rover of the Canadian Space Agency (CSA). A multibody dynamics model of the Juno rover including the new wheel/soil interaction model was developed and simulated in maplesim. To identify the wheel/soil contact model parameters, the cost function of the model residuals of the kinematic data is minimized. The volumetric contact model is then tested by using the identified contact model parameters in a forward dynamics simulation of the rover on an irregular three-dimensional terrain and compared against experiments.
A Subject-Specific Musculoskeletal Modeling Framework to Predict In Vivo Mechanics of Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Marra Marco A. , Vanheule Valentine , Fluit René , Koopman Bart H. F. J. M. , Rasmussen John , Verdonschot Nico , Andersen Michael S.
Published: November 2014

Musculoskeletal (MS) models should be able to integrate patient-specific MS architecture and undergo thorough validation prior to their introduction into clinical practice. We present a methodology to develop subject-specific models able to simultaneously predict muscle, ligament, and knee joint contact forces along with secondary knee kinematics. The MS architecture of a generic cadaver-based model was scaled using an advanced morphing technique to the subject-specific morphology of a patient implanted with an instrumented total knee arthroplasty (TKA) available in the fifth “grand challenge competition to predict in vivo knee loads” dataset. We implemented two separate knee models, one employing traditional hinge constraints, which was solved using an inverse dynamics technique, and another one using an 11-degree-of-freedom (DOF) representation of the tibiofemoral (TF) and patellofemoral (PF) joints, which was solved using a combined inverse dynamic and quasi-static analysis, called force-dependent kinematics (FDK). TF joint forces for one gait and one right-turn trial and secondary knee kinematics for one unloaded leg-swing trial were predicted and evaluated using experimental data available in the grand challenge dataset. Total compressive TF contact forces were predicted by both hinge and FDK knee models with a root-mean-square error (RMSE) and a coefficient of determination (R2) smaller than 0.3 body weight (BW) and equal to 0.9 in the gait trial simulation and smaller than 0.4 BW and larger than 0.8 in the right-turn trial simulation, respectively. Total, medial, and lateral TF joint contact force predictions were highly similar, regardless of the type of knee model used. Medial (respectively lateral) TF forces were over- (respectively, under-) predicted with a magnitude error of M < 0.2 (respectively > −0.4) in the gait trial, and under- (respectively, over-) predicted with a magnitude error of M > −0.4 (respectively < 0.3) in the right-turn trial. Secondary knee kinematics from the unloaded leg-swing trial were overall better approximated using the FDK model (average Sprague and Geers' combined error C = 0.06) than when using a hinged knee model (C = 0.34). The proposed modeling approach allows detailed subject-specific scaling and personalization and does not contain any nonphysiological parameters. This modeling framework has potential applications in aiding the clinical decision-making in orthopedics procedures and as a tool for virtual implant design.
Comparison of RANS and Detached Eddy Simulation Results to Wind-Tunnel Data for the Surface Pressures Upon a Class 43 High-Speed Train
Authors: Morden Justin A. , Hemida Hassan , Baker Chris. J.
Published: November 2014

Currently, there are three different methodologies for evaluating the aerodynamics of trains; full-scale measurements, physical modeling using wind-tunnel, and moving train rigs and numerical modeling using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Moreover, different approaches and turbulence modeling are normally used within the CFD framework. The work in this paper investigates the consistency of two of these methodologies; the wind-tunnel and the CFD by comparing the measured surface pressure with the computed CFD values. The CFD is based on Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) turbulence models (five models were used; the Spalart–Allmaras (S–A), k-ε, k-ε re-normalization group (RNG), realizable k-ε, and shear stress transport (SST) k-ω) and two detached eddy simulation (DES) approaches; the standard DES and delayed detached eddy simulation (DDES). This work was carried out as part of a larger project to determine whether the current methods of CFD, model scale and full-scale testing provide consistent results and are able to achieve agreement with each other when used in the measurement of train aerodynamic phenomena. Similar to the wind-tunnel, the CFD approaches were applied to external aerodynamic flow around a 1/25th scale class 43 high-speed tunnel (HST) model. Comparison between the CFD results and wind-tunnel data were conducted using coefficients for surface pressure, measured at the wind-tunnel by pressure taps fitted over the surface of the train in loops. Four different meshes where tested with both the RANS SST k-ω and DDES approaches to form a mesh sensitivity study. The four meshes featured 18, 24, 34, and 52 × 106 cells. A mesh of 34 × 106 cells was found to provide the best balance between accuracy and computational cost. Comparison of the results showed that the DES based approaches; in particular, the DDES approach was best able to replicate the wind-tunnel results within the margin of uncertainty.
Analysis of Micro/Mesoscale Sheet Forming Process by Strain Gradient Plasticity and Its Characterization of Tool Feature Size Effects
Authors: Peng Linfa , Yi Peiyun , Hu Peng , Lai Xinmin , Ni Jun
Published: November 2014

Conventional material models cannot describe material behaviors precisely in micro/mesoscale due to the size/scale effects. In micro/mesoscale forming process, the reaction force, localized stress concentration, and formability are not only dependent on the strain distribution and strain path but also on the strain gradient and strain gradient path caused by decreased scale. This study presented an analytical model based on the conventional mechanism of strain gradient (CMSG) plasticity. Finite element (FE) simulations were performed to study the effects of the width of microchannel features. Die sets were fabricated and micro/mesoscale sheet forming experiments were conducted. The results indicated that the CMSG plastic theory achieves better agreements compared to the conventional plastic theory. It was also found that the influence of strain gradient on the forming process increases with the decrease of the geometrical parameters of tools. Furthermore, the feature size effects in the forming process were evaluated and quantitated by the similarity difference and the similarity accuracy. Various tool geometrical parameters were designed based on the Taguchi method to explore the influence of the strain gradient caused by the decrease of tool dimension. According to the scale law, the difference and accuracy of similarity were calculated. Greater equivalent strain gradient was revealed with the decrease of tool dimension, which led to the greater maximum reaction force error due to the increasing size effects. The main effect plots for equivalent strain gradient and reaction force indicated that the influence of tools clearance is greater than those of punch radius, die radius, and die width.
Bubble Formation Modeling During Laser Direct Writing of Glycerol Solutions
Authors: Xiong Ruitong , Zhang Zhengyi , Shen Jianxin , Lin Yafu , Huang Yong , Chrisey Douglas B.
Published: November 2014

Laser direct writing, a noncontact modified laser-induced forward transfer (LIFT) technique, has emerged as a promising technology for various applications from microelectronics printing to biofabrication. For it to be a viable technology, the bubble formation process during laser direct writing should be carefully examined. In this study, the bubble formation process during the laser direct writing of glycerol–water solutions has been studied using a nucleation-based phase explosion modeling approach. The effects of laser fluence and material properties of glycerol solution on the resulting bubble geometry have been examined both analytically and experimentally. Overall, a satisfactory modeling accuracy has been achieved, while the proposed modeling approach slightly underestimates the bubble diameter. Both the measured and predicted bubble diameters increase when the laser fluence increases. Interestingly, the measured and predicted diameters first decrease, then increase, and decrease again with the increase of glycerol concentration. Furthermore, it is noted that the bubble diameter is more sensitive to the laser fluence than the glycerol concentration.
Experimental Analysis of a Vertical and Flexible Cylinder in Water: Response to Top Motion Excitation and Parametric Resonance
Authors: Franzini Guilherme R. , Pesce Celso P. , Salles Rafael , Gonçalves Rodolfo T. , Fujarra André L. C. , Mendes Pedro
Published: November 2014

Experiments with a vertical, flexible, and submerged cylinder were carried out to investigate fundamental aspects of risers dynamics subjected to harmonic excitation at the top. The flexible model was designed aiming a high level of dynamic similarity with a real riser. Vertical motion, with amplitude of 1% of the unstretched length, was imposed with a device driven by a servomotor. Responses to distinct exciting frequency ratios were investigated, namely, ft:fN,1 = 1:3; 1:1; 2:1, and 3:1. Cartesian coordinates of 43 monitored points positioned all along the span were experimentally acquired by using an optical tracking system. A simple Galerkin's projection applied for modal decomposition, combined with standard Mathieu chart analysis, led to the identification of parametric resonances. A curious finding is that the Mathieu instability may simultaneously occur in more than one mode, leading to interesting dynamic behaviors, also revealed through standard power spectra analysis and displacement scalograms.
Mechanism of DNA interstrand cross-link processing by repair nuclease FAN1
Authors: Wang Renjing , Persky Nicole S. , Yoo Barney , Ouerfelli Ouathek , Smogorzewska Agata , Elledge Stephen J. , Pavletich Nikola P.
Published: November 2014

DNA interstrand cross-links (ICLs) are highly toxic lesions associated with cancer and degenerative diseases. ICLs can be repaired by the Fanconi anemia (FA) pathway and through FA-independent processes involving the FAN1 nuclease. In this work, FAN1-DNA crystal structures and biochemical data reveal that human FAN1 cleaves DNA successively at every third nucleotide. In vitro, this exonuclease mechanism allows FAN1 to excise an ICL from one strand through flanking incisions. DNA access requires a 5′-terminal phosphate anchor at a nick or a 1- or 2-nucleotide flap and is augmented by a 3′ flap, suggesting that FAN1 action is coupled to DNA synthesis or recombination. FAN1’s mechanism of ICL excision is well suited for processing other localized DNA adducts as well.
Forgetting the presidents
Authors: Roediger H. L. , DeSoto K. A.
Published: November 2014

Two studies examined how U.S. presidents are forgotten. A total of 415 undergraduates in 1974, 1991, and 2009 recalled as many presidents as possible and attempted to place them in their correct ordinal positions. All showed roughly linear forgetting of the eight or nine presidents prior to the president holding office at the time, and recall of presidents without respect to ordinal position also showed a regular pattern of forgetting. Similar outcomes occurred with 497 adults (ages 18 to 69) tested in 2014. We fit forgetting functions to the data to predict when six relatively recent presidents will recede in memory to the level of most middle presidents (e.g., we predict that Truman will be forgotten to the same extent as McKinley by about 2040). These studies show that forgetting from collective memory can be studied empirically, as with forgetting in other forms of memory.
Catalytically active Au-O(OH)

x

- species stabilized by alkali ions on zeolites and mesoporous oxides
Authors: Yang Ming , Li Sha , Wang Yuan , Herron Jeffrey A. , Xu Ye , Allard Lawrence F. , Lee Sungsik , Huang Jun , Mavrikakis Manos , Flytzani-Stephanopoulos Maria
Published: November 2014

We report that the addition of alkali ions (sodium or potassium) to gold on KLTL-zeolite and mesoporous MCM-41 silica stabilizes mononuclear gold in Au-O(OH)

x

-(Na or K) ensembles. This single-site gold species is active for the low-temperature (<200°C) water-gas shift (WGS) reaction. Unexpectedly, gold is thus similar to platinum in creating –O linkages with more than eight alkali ions and establishing an active site on various supports. The intrinsic activity of the single-site gold species is the same on irreducible supports as on reducible ceria, iron oxide, and titania supports, apparently all sharing a common, similarly structured gold active site. This finding paves the way for using earth-abundant supports to disperse and stabilize precious metal atoms with alkali additives for the WGS and potentially other fuel-processing reactions.
Chasing South America's monsoon
Authors: Wade Lizzie
Published: November 2014

Future of key rain pattern in doubt as climate negotiators gather in Peru.
U.S. to expand public access to clinical study results
Authors: Kaiser Jocelyn
Published: November 2014

Proposals would require sponsors to report data on thousands of additional trials each year.
Martian obsession
Authors: Hand Eric
Published: November 2014

Black Beauty, a meteorite from ancient Mars, has captivated collectors and scientists.
Powering the cell cycle
Authors: Schulz Christian , Rehling Peter
Published: November 2014

Cell division is linked to mitochondrial protein transport

[Also see Report by

Harbauer
et al.

]
Management of opioid painkiller dependence in primary care: ongoing recovery with buprenorphine/naloxone
Authors: Hard Bernadette
Published: November 2014

Opioid painkiller dependence is a growing problem and best-practice management is not well defined. We report a case of a young woman exhibiting dependence on codeine, originally prescribed for myalgic encephalopathy, after escalating use over a 10-year period. In 2012, a consultation with a new general practitioner, who had extensive experience of patients with substance abuse, revealed the underlying dependence. After building trust for 6 months, she was able to admit to medication abuse, and was referred to the community drug and alcohol team. On presentation to the team, the patient had no pain issues and the dihydrocodeine use—600 tablets/week—solely reflected her dependence. The patient successfully underwent rapid induction with buprenorphine/naloxone as opioid substitution treatment over 2 days. She is currently stable, engaged with recovery support services and psychosocial counselling, and has just returned to work. She is maintained on a therapeutic dose of buprenorphine 10 mg/naloxone 2.5 mg.
Spontaneous pneumomediastinum: an important differential in acute chest pain
Authors: Hogan Francesca , McCullough Chris , Rahman Asif
Published: November 2014

A 38-year-old man presented with pleuritic chest pain that was present on waking and localised to the left costal margin with no radiation. He was otherwise asymptomatic and denied preceding trauma, heavy lifting, coughing or recent vomiting. Observations and examination were unremarkable; however, a chest radiograph showed a pneumomediastinum. Spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) is a rare condition that tends to follow a benign clinical course. A CT of the chest is generally only indicated if the chest X-ray fails to show an SPM in patients for whom there is a high index of clinical suspicion. A contrast-enhanced swallow study is only indicated if there is suspicion of an oesophageal tear or rupture. Evidence suggests that patients with SPM can be managed conservatively and observed for 24 h.
Vanishing bile duct syndrome in the context of concurrent temozolomide for glioblastoma
Authors: Mason Matthew , Adeyi Oyedele , Fung Scott , Millar Barbara-Ann
Published: November 2014

Temozolomide, an oral alkylating agent, is used in the treatment of glioblastoma. We describe a case of a 62-year-old woman developing jaundice with significant derangement of liver function tests on day 17 of focal radiotherapy with concomitant temozolomide. There was no structural abnormality on imaging and liver biopsy was performed. Pathology revealed absence of small terminal bile ducts affecting up to 60% of sampled portal tracts and senescence of many of the remaining small bile ducts, in keeping with a diagnosis of acute vanishing bile duct syndrome. This is a rare syndrome. It has been documented in association with Hodgkin's lymphoma and viral causes. Drugs implicated as precipitating this condition include antiseizure medications, some antibiotics, ibuprofen and antifungals. Temozolomide was stopped. The patient received supportive care, ursodeoxycholic acid 750 mg daily and cholestyramine 4 g twice daily. She was otherwise asymptomatic and her blood results returned to normal by day 129.
Non-diarrhoeal increased frequency of bowel movements (IFoBM-ND): enterovirus association with the symptoms in children
Authors: Rao C Durga , Maiya P P , Babu M Ananda
Published: November 2014

Objective

Infectious and non-infectious causes are associated with increased frequency of bowel movements (IFoBM). But, a viral aetiology to non-diarrhoeal IFoBM (IFoBM-ND) has not been described. Owing to an accidental infection by an echovirus 19 strain, persistent diarrhoea-associated virus, isolated from a child with persistent diarrhoea, DCR experienced persistent IFoBM-ND with an urgency to pass apparently normal stools more than once each day for about 3 months. A follow-up study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of IFoBM-ND, and association of non-polio enteroviruses (NPEVs) with the symptom in infants from birth to 2 years.

Design

A cohort of 140 newborns was followed for 6 months to 2 years from birth for IFoBM-ND. Stool samples collected every 14 days were examined for NPEVs, rotavirus and other viral/bacterial agents for their possible association with IFoBM-ND and diarrhoea.

Results

Of 403 NPEV infection episodes among 4545 oral polio vaccine strains-negative stool samples, approximately 29% were associated with IFoBM-ND (15% acute and 14% persistent), including resolution of 74% of constipation episodes, and 18% with diarrhoea, suggesting that about 47% of NPEV infection episodes in children below 2 years of age are associated with gastrointestinal symptoms. About 83% of IFoBM-ND episodes are associated with the NPEV infection and 17% of the episodes are of unknown aetiology.

Conclusions

NPEV is the single most frequently detected viral agent in children with IFoBM-ND and its association with the symptom is highly significant, warranting detailed investigations on the role of NPEVs in gastrointestinal diseases.
The Medical Boomerang: Will it come back?
Authors: McDermott Cian , Sheridan Michael , Moore Katie , Gosbell Andrew
Published: November 2014

Objectives

To explore the increasing numbers of emergency medicine (EM) registrars that obtained their primary medical degree from UK or Irish universities, who work in emergency departments (ED) throughout Australia and New Zealand.

Methods

The Victorian Emergency Registrar Study was published at the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (ACEM) annual scientific meeting in Adelaide in November 2013. As a follow on, ACEM provided the authors with data regarding country of primary degree for international medical graduates (IMG) working as registrars in Australasian EDs.

Results

UK and Irish EM registrars make up the largest proportion of IMGs working in Australian and New Zealand EDs. These figures have increased from 34% in 2008 to 45% in 2013. In 2013, there was the highest yearly intake of UK and Irish ED IMG registrars, representing 41% of registrars joining the Australasian EM training programme. Current data show that >25% of all ED registrars working in Australasian EDs studied for their primary medical degree in a university either in Ireland or the UK.

Conclusions

While there have been anecdotal reports of increased outflow of junior EM doctors from the UK and Ireland, we provide quantitative data on the extent of the recent (5-year trend data) emigration of UK/Irish EM trainees to Australia and New Zealand and discuss the impact of this on both the UK/Irish and Australasian health systems.
Clinical utility of simple non-invasive liver fibrosis indices for predicting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) among Egyptian patients
Authors: Abdelgawad Iman Attia
Published: November 2014

Aim

Serological indices for liver fibrosis have been widely used to estimate liver fibrosis, but as far as we know they have not been tested to predict hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Our aim is to study the clinical usefulness of some simple non-invasive fibrosis indices in the prediction of HCC among Egyptian patients.

Methods

Ninety patients with HCC who were presented to the National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, were included in this study, together with 30 patients with cirrhosis as a benign control group and 30 apparently healthy volunteers as a normal control group. FIB4 Score, Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) to Platelet (PLT) Ratio Index (APRI) Score, AST/PLT ratio, Age/PLT Index and AST/alanine aminotransferase indices were calculated for all patients and controls and were tested for their clinical use to predict HCC.

Results

Double combination between alpha-fetoprotein and FIB4 Score when either one was abnormal showed the highest diagnostic performance between the HCC group and the cirrhosis and control groups with sensitivity and specificity of (93% and 96%), respectively, whereas the APRI Score was the best to differentiate between the cirrhosis and control groups with sensitivity and specificity of 100% each.

Conclusions

Using some simple non-costly indices can accurately predict HCC and differentiate it from cirrhosis and normal control cases among Egyptian patients, it can also differentiate cirrhosis from normal controls, so can be used as diagnostic and screening tools for both HCC and liver cirrhosis among the Egyptian population.
Application of tissue mesodissection to molecular cancer diagnostics
Authors: Krizman David , Adey Nils , Parry Robert
Published: November 2014

Aims

To demonstrate clinical application of a mesodissection platform that was developed to combine advantages of laser-based instrumentation with the speed/ease of manual dissection for automated dissection of tissue off standard glass slides.

Methods

Genomic analysis for KRAS gene mutation was performed on formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) cancer patient tissue that was dissected using the mesodissection platform. Selected reaction monitoring proteomic analysis for quantitative Her2 protein expression was performed on FFPE patient tumour tissue dissected by a laser-based instrument and the MilliSect instrument.

Results

Genomic analysis demonstrates highly confident detection of KRAS mutation specifically in lung cancer cells and not the surrounding benign, non-tumour tissue. Proteomic analysis demonstrates Her2 quantitative protein expression in breast cancer cells dissected manually, by laser-based instrumentation and by MilliSect instrumentation (mesodissection).

Conclusions

Slide-mounted tissue dissection is commonly performed using laser-based instruments or manually scraping tissue by scalpel. Here we demonstrate that the mesodissection platform as performed by the MilliSect instrument for tissue dissection is cost-effective; it functions comparably to laser-based dissection and which can be adopted into a clinical diagnostic workflow.
Sedation and mechanical antinociception after intravenous administration of detomidine in donkeys: a dosage–effect study
Authors: Lizarraga Ignacio , Castillo‐Alcala Fernanda , Varner Kelley M. , Robinson Lauren S.
Published: November 2014

There is limited, useful, scientific information on detomidine in donkeys. This study compared the effects of intravenous saline, detomidine (10, 13.5, 17 and 20 μg/kg) and acepromazine (50 μg/kg) in donkeys by computing areas under the curve for 0–30, 30–60 and 60–120 minutes (AUC0–30, AUC30–60and AUC60–120) for sedation scores, head heights and mechanical nociceptive thresholds (MNTs). For sedation scores, all detomidine treatments, except 10 μg/kg, increased AUC0–30values compared with saline, and AUC0–30values were larger for 17 μg/kg detomidine than for acepromazine. All head height AUC values were lower for detomidine than for saline (except AUC60–120for 10 μg/kg detomidine) and acepromazine (except AUC0–30for 10 and 20 μg/kg detomidine, and AUC60–120for 10 μg/kg detomidine). For MNTs, all detomidine treatments increased AUC0–30and AUC30–60values compared with saline and acepromazine; AUC30–60values were smaller for 10 μg/kg than for 17 and 20 μg/kg detomidine. MNT AUC60–120values were larger for 20 μg/kg detomidine than for saline, 10 μg/kg detomidine and acepromazine. Detomidine induced sedation and antinociception, but only antinociception was dosage dependent. Selection of detomidine dosage for donkeys may depend on the required duration of sedation and/or degree of analgesia.
Induction of the lateral flagellar system ofVibrio shiloniiis an early event after inhibition of the sodium ion flux in the polar flagellum
Authors: González Yael , Camarena Laura , Dreyfus Georges
Published: November 2014

In this study, we show the induction of lateral flagella by the action of the sodium channel blocker phenamil, in the marine bacterium Vibrio shilonii, a coral pathogen that causes bleaching. We analyzed the growth and morphology of cells treated with phenamil. A time course analysis showed that after 30 min of exposure to the sodium channel blocker, lateral flagella were present and could be detected by electron microscopy. Detection of the mRNA of the master regulator (lafK) and lateral flagellin (lafA) by RT–PCR confirmed the expression of lateral flagellar genes. We show the simultaneous isolation of polar and, for the first time, lateral flagellar hook-basal bodies. This allowed us to compare the dimensions and morphological characteristics of the 2 structures.
GENETICS OF RESISTANCE TO LEAF RUST IN THE COMMON WHEAT VARIETIES WEBSTER, LOROS, BREVIT, CARINA, MALAKOF AND CENTENARIO
Authors: Dyck P. L. , Samborski D. J.
Published: November 2014

Inheritance of seedling resistance to races 15 and 161 of leaf rust was investigated in the varieties Webster, Loros, Brevit, Carina, Malakof and Centenario. Backcross lines were developed in Thatcher and/or Prelude with leaf rust resistance derived from all the varieties except Brevit. The varieties and backcross lines were tested with nine races of rust. Webster was found to have the Lr2 gene which accounts for all of its resistance to the races used. Carina has an allele, Lr22, at the Lr2 locus, plus a gene tentatively assigned the symbol LrB, independent of the Lr2 locus which confers a type 2 reaction to races 15, 161 and probably several others. Resistance present in Loros is accounted for another allele, Lr24, at the Lr2 locus. Brevit also has an allele at the Lr2 locus which may be the same as that in Loros. In addition it probably has gene LrB conferring a type 2 reaction. Gene Lr1, which was independent of the Lr2 locus, accounts for all the detected resistance in Malakof. Centenario has the Lr1 gene and in addition has resistance to races 5 and 126a.The susceptible parents Thatcher and Prelude influence the dominance of the Lr2 alleles. The Lr22 allele in Carina x Prelude6 was partially dominant in crosses with Thatcher and completely dominant in crosses with Red Bobs. The Lr24 allele in Loros x Prelude6 was recessive in crosses with Thatcher and completely dominant in crosses with Prelude and Red Bobs.The expression of resistance of the Lr2 alleles to race 161 in Webster and Carina was different in crosses with Red Bobs than in those with Thatcher. In the crosses with Red Bobs one or more genes, which modified the degree of resistance to race 161, appeared to be segregating. This was not observed in crosses with Thatcher.
EFFETS DES MICROIRRADIATIONS SUR LES MICROSPOROCYTES ET MICROSPORES DE TRADESCANTIA PALUDOSA: I. La méiose dans les microsporocytes in vitro
Authors: Garot G. , Lebrun-Peremans J. , Moreau L. , Gilles A.
Published: November 2014

Meiocytes of Tradescantia paludosa are cultivated under the microscope in a simple medium. Phase-contrast observation of the chromosomes is very accurate, from metaphase I to telophase II. Such living material is very convenient for the study in vitro of the effects of micro-beam irradiation.
A UV-SENSITIVE MUTANT OF ASPERGILLUS RUGULOSUS UNRELATED TO INTERGENIC CROSSING OVER
Authors: Tuveson R. W. , Lennox J. E.
Published: November 2014

A nuclear gene mutation conferring UV sensitivity in Aspergillus rugulosus has been shown to be uninvolved in the recombination of linked genes and has no effect on ascus and ascospore development. It is possible that this gene is analogous to the well known uvr genes of Escherichia coli. An alternative interpretation of the rec− mutants in E. coli is presented.