bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling take-off moment arms in an ornithocheiraean pterosaur
Authors: Griffin Benjamin W. , Martin-Silverstone Elizabeth , Pêgas Rodrigo V. , Meilak Erik Anthony , Costa Fabiana R. , Palmer Colin , Rayfield Emily J.
Published: August 2024

Take-off is a vital part of powered flight which likely constrains the size of birds, yet extinct pterosaurs are known to have reached far larger sizes. Three different hypothesised take-off motions (bipedal burst launching, bipedal countermotion launching, and quadrupedal launching) have been proposed as explanations for how pterosaurs became airborne and circumvented this proposed morphological limit. We have constructed a computational musculoskeletal model of a 5 m wingspan ornithocheiraean pterosaur, reconstructing thirty-four key muscles to estimate the muscle moment arms throughout the three hypothesised take-off motions. Range of motion constrained hypothetical kinematic sequences for bipedal and quadrupedal take-off motions were modelled after extant flying vertebrates. Across our simulations we did not find higher hindlimb moment arms for bipedal take-off motions or noticeably higher forelimb moment arms in the forelimb for quadrupedal take-off motions. Despite this, in all our models we found the muscles utilised in the quadrupedal take-off have the largest total launch applicable moment arms throughout the entire take-off sequences and for the take-off pose. This indicates the potential availability of higher leverage for a quadrupedal take-off than hypothesised bipedal motions in pterosaurs pending further examination of muscle forces.
Within-host adaptive speciation of commensal yoyo clams leads to ecological exclusion, not co-existence
Authors: Harrison Teal A. , Goto Ryutaro , Li Jingchun , Ó Foighil Diarmaid
Published: August 2024

Symbionts dominate planetary diversity and three primary symbiont diversification processes have been proposed: co-speciation with hosts, speciation by host-switching, and within-host speciation. The last mechanism is prevalent among members of an extraordinary marine symbiosis in the Indian River Lagoon, Florida, composed of a host mantis shrimp, Lysiosquilla scabricauda, and seven host-specific commensal vasconielline “yoyo” clams (Galeommatoidea) that collectively occupy two distinct niches: burrow-wall-attached, and host-attached/ectocommensal. This within-host symbiont radiation provides a natural experiment to test how symbiont coexistence patterns are regulated in a common ancestral habitat. The competitive exclusion principle predicts that sister taxa produced by adaptive speciation (with distinct morphologies and within-burrow niches) are most likely to coexist whereas the neutral theory predicts no difference among adaptive and non-adaptive sister taxa co-occurrence. To test these predictions, we engaged in (1) field-censusing commensal species assemblages; (2) trophic niche analyses; (3) laboratory behavioral observations. Although predicted by both models, the field census found no mixed-niche commensal assemblages: multi-species burrows were exclusively composed of burrow-wall commensals. Their co-occurrence matched random assembly process expectations, but presence of the single ectocommensal species had a highly significant negative effect on recruitment of all burrow-wall commensal species (P < 0.001), including on its burrow-wall commensal sister species (P < 0.001). Our stable isotope data indicated that commensals are suspension feeders and that co-occurring burrow-wall commensals may exhibit trophic niche differentiation. The artificial burrow behavioral experiment yielded no evidence of spatial segregation among burrow-wall commensals, and it was terminated by a sudden breakdown of the host-commensal relationship resulting in a mass mortality of all commensals unattached to the host. This study system appears to contain two distinct, superimposed patterns of commensal distribution: (1) all burrow-wall commensal species; (2) the ectocommensal species. Burrow-wall commensals (the plesiomorphic condition) broadly adhere to neutral theory expectations of species assembly but the adaptive evolution of ectocommensalism has apparently led to ecological exclusion rather than coexistence, an inverse outcome of theoretical expectations. The ecological factors regulating the observed burrow-wall/ectocommensal exclusion are currently obscure but potentially include differential recruitment to host burrows and/or differential survival in “mixed” burrow assemblages, the latter potentially due to changes in host predatory behavior. Resampling host burrows during commensal recruitment peak periods and tracking burrow-wall commensal survival in host burrows with and without added ectocommensals could resolve this outstanding issue.
Review of Incidence and Risk Factors for Spinal Fauctures in Canines
Authors: Reddy Puli Vishnu Vardhan , Shafiuzama Mohammed , H Pushkin Raj, , S Ramesh, , M Chandrasekar,
Published: August 2024

A survey was conducted to analyze vertebral fractures in dogs presented to the Madras Veterinary College Orthopaedic Outpatient Unit during a period of one and half year. A total of 24 cases were included, predominantly males with an average weight of 16 to 18 kilograms. The primary causes identified were road traffic accidents (n=15) and high-rise syndrome (n=9), affecting predominantly dogs aged 5 months to 2 years (n=14). Non-descript breeds were most commonly affected. Fractures were most frequently observed in the caudal thoracic vertebrae (T11 to L1). CT myelography revealed ventral displacement in cases of luxation, primarily affecting the thoracolumbar and lumbosacral regions. This study underscores the prevalence and characteristics of vertebral fractures in dogs, highlighting the need for prompt diagnosis and appropriate management strategies.
Perception of the Farmers Regarding Kisan Mela Organized at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana, India
Authors: Swati  , Singh Kiran
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the impact and effectiveness of the Haryana Agricultural University (HAU) Kisan Mela as a platform for farmers' engagement and knowledge exchange. Using an ex-post facto research design, data were collected from 30 farmers who attended the Kisan Mela in March 2024. The study focused on various socio-economic factors, farmers' perceptions and satisfaction levels, participation in extension activities, and problems faced during the event. The findings revealed a diverse participation of farmers across different age groups, family structures, educational backgrounds, and occupations. The majority of participants reported positive experiences and high satisfaction levels with the services, information quality, and infrastructure provided at the Mela. While minimal problems were reported, they highlight areas for improvement to enhance farmers' experiences further. Overall, the study concludes that the HAU Kisan Mela plays a crucial role in disseminating agricultural information, fostering innovation, and facilitating community networking among farmers, contributing significantly to the advancement of agriculture in the region.
Development of a Choreography-Based Learning Model Focused on Independent Learning
Authors: M Rahma , Bundu Patta , Syahrir Nurlina
Published: August 2024

This study aims to develop a choreography-based learning model focused on independent learning to enhance students' creativity. The learning model is designed to provide students with the freedom to explore their own dance ideas and concepts with minimal intervention from instructors. The research employs a Research and Development (R&D) method with a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative methods. The model development process involves several stages, including needs analysis, model design, validity testing, model revision, and implementation. The research findings indicate that this learning model is effective in enhancing students' creativity. Creativity measurement is conducted using the Torrance Creativity Test, which reveals a significant increase in creativity scores among students who use this model compared to the control group. Furthermore, feedback from students and instructors suggests that this model can increase student motivation and engagement in the learning process. It is hoped that these findings will contribute positively to the development of learning methods in the field of dance and can be adapted for other disciplines that require creative approaches in their learning processes.
Socio-demographic Determinants of Healthcare Utilization among Adults in Rural Communities of Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: G. K. Samuel, , Okpe Ogar,
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the determinants of HealthCare Utilization among Adults in Rural Communities in Benue State. A descriptive survey design was adopted for the study. Population for the study consisted of 4,253,641 adults in rural communities in Benue State. A sample size of 612 adults was selected by a multistage sampling procedure. The instrument for data collection was a self-structure questionnaire with reliability coefficients of 0.82. Data analysis was done using the statistical package for social sciences. Percentage and Mean (x) sores were used in analyzing the demographic variables and research questions, while Spearman rank order was used in testing the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study showed that socio-demographic variables such as age, educational level, marital status and location had no significant difference in the utilization of health services (\(\bar{X}\)>2.50) while religion have significant difference (\(\bar{X}\)<2.50) in the utilization of health care service in the study area. It was concluded that sociodemographic variables have influence utilization of health care services among adult was high. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others that, Government need to improve on accessibility to health care facilities by building additional health care facilities where distance will be closer to the people.
Evaluation of the Phytochemical and Elemental Composition of Andrographic paniculata Leaves
Authors: Ekanem Ime R. , Essien Nsikak B. , Ekanem Ima I. , R.S.Zayyan  , Chukwuemeka Iheanyichukwu E.
Published: August 2024

This research work was designed to determine the phytochemical and elemental composition of Andrographic paniculata leaves grown in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The analysis was carried out using standard procedures. The results of the phytochemical constituents were as follows: alkaloids (2.48 + 0.36%), saponins (9.56 + 0.77%), Flavonoids (4.57 + 0.07%), Tannins ((12.34 + 0.36%) and cardiac glycosides (0.39 + 0.01%). The results of the elemental composition were as follows: Magnesium (3.02 + 0.05mg/kg), calcium (5.57 + 0.07 mg/kg), potassium (20.70 + 0.11 mg/kg), sodium (1.58 + 0.61 mg/kg), Zinc (2.17 + 0.08 mg/kg), Copper (10.45 + 0.14 mg/kg) and Iron (12.50 + 0.21 mg/kg). The phytochemicals present in this plant may be responsible for its medicinal properties. The elemental composition shows that the plant may be rich in minerals.
Modulatory Effects of Natron on Biochemical Indices and Cardiac Muscle Gene Expression in Postpartum Albino Rats
Authors: A Ahmad , U Wali , JO Yinka , GI Kasimu , SK Muhammad
Published: August 2024

Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a major public health problem that causes significant morbidity, mortality and huge economic burden among peripartum women. The proposal that natron consumption during postpartum period is involved in the development of peripartum cardiomyopathy requires further scientific elucidation. The current research investigated the effects of natron administration on antioxidant status of cardiac muscles, serum cardiac troponins among postpartum albino rats. Postpartum rats were group into 4, each containing 5 rats. Colorimetric, sandwich microplate immunoenzymometric assay was used for troponins estimation. Real Time PCR was used for the gene expression studies. Antioxidants status was measured using enzymatic methods. Natron administration reduces oxidative stress at lower dose, while it induces oxidative stress at higher concentration. There was a significant increase (P<0.05) in MDA concentration in groups 3 and 4 and a decrease in group 2 compared with controls. There was a significant decrease (P<0.05) in GPX and SOD activity in groups 3 and 4 and an increase in group 2 compared with controls. There was significant increase (P<0.05) in CAT activity in all groups administered natron compared with controls. There was significant decrease(p˂0.05) in troponin I, C and T in groups administered natron compared with controls. Also natron administration up regulates cardiac troponins genes and STAT3 genes. The current study revealed that though natron played a protective role at a low concentration, it may cause oxidative stress in the cardiac muscles at higher doses. Thus, oxidative stress in cardiac muscles and modulation of cardiac muscle genes is likely the mechanism by which high natron intake causes Peripartum cardiomyopathy. Further research is recommended in humans to determine the safety of natron in postpartum period.
Assessment of the Drinking Water Quality in Shendam Local Government Area of Southern Senatorial District of Plateau State, Nigeria
Authors: C Chukwu Anthonia , P Zipporah Duguryil , N Gambo Nanbol , Lubis Sati , B Denji Kitka
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Access to clean water is fundamental to human health. The importance of water to human’s health and wellbeing is encapsulated in the human right to water, reaffirmed by the united nation in 2010. The, aim of this study was to assessed the quality of drinking water in Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State Nigeria.
Place and Duration of Study: The water samples were collected from Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State Nigeria. 20 samples of the water were collected in the month of May from different locations within the study area.
Methodology: The samples were analyzed using automated instrumental methods prescribed by standard methods for the analysis of water and wastewater and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA, 2010).
Results: The results showed SO42- range from ND to 69.00mg/L; pH 6.93 to 7.69; NO3- 4.40 to 113.08 mg/L; PO42- 1.48 to 69.00 mg/L; Cd range from 0.002 ± 0.03 to 0.036 ± 0.005 mg/L; Ni, from 0.002 ± 0.010 to 0.162 ± 0.013 mg/L; Cr, ND to 0.337 ± 0.051 mg/L; Pb 0.012 ± 0.002 to 0.213 ± 0.029 mg/L. The calculated average daily intake (ADI) for Cd, Ni, Cr and Pb were within acceptable limits while the hazard quotients (HQ) for some of the metals were >1, while some are  < 1 signifying that some of the population would experience non-cancer risks due to exposure to these metals in drinking water. The bacteriological study of the water samples also revealed that the water samples were all polluted with bacteria and coliforms.
Conclusion: From the foregoing, these drinking water sources, therefore require treatment before consumption to minimize or avoid the incidences of water-related diseases.
Interplay of Abiotic Factors on Various Phytophagous Beetles in Cucumber Under Different Agro-climatic Conditions
Authors: B Mohan Ganesh. , M Gopi Prasad. , D Sravani. , D.K. Saikia.
Published: August 2024

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.2n = 14) is one of the widely cultivated summer vegetable crops from the gourd family of Cucurbitaceae which is native to India. The climatic conditions of northeast India especially Assam are highly conducive for reproduction of insects, and this region has been considered to be a biodiversity hotspot. Moreover, this region has huge potential for the production of vegetable crops especially cucurbits, but insect pests like fruit flies, pumpkin beetle and sucking pests are major limiting factors for successful cultivation of cucurbits like cucumber etc. Therefore, understanding population fluctuation in the field in relation to losses caused by insect pests are a function of their population dynamics which needs to be thoroughly studied. In view of above factors, an investigation on “Interplay of Abiotic and Biotic Factors on various phytophagous beetles of Cucumber Under Different Agro- Climatic Conditions” was carried out at Horticultural Farm, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat. Population of phytophagous beetles were recorded on weekly intervals based on number of beetles per plant at seven days interval on 5 randomly selected plants after appearance of the pest. The results showed that during 2019 -2021 summer season, the red pumpkin beetle first appeared on 24th April 2019 and 7th May 2020 with initial population of 4.51 and 2.23 beetles per plant, respectively. However, maximum beetle populations were recorded on 8thMay 2019 and 3rd July 2020 with 6.15 and 6.52 beetles per plant, respectively.
Body Composition and Non-invasive Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Urban and Rural Students: The Impact of Regular Physical Activity and Diet Behavior
Authors: Nascimento-da-Silva Fábio , Valentim-Silva João Rafael , Andrade Alexandro , Furtado-da-Silva Vernon , Peres Jessica Ohrana Façanha Bastos , Almeida Ana Paula de Sousa , Ramalho Alanderson Alves , Andrade Andréia Moreira de , Casonatto Juliano
Published: August 2024

Aims: This study aims to investigate and compare these factors among children, including physical activity time, blood pressure, and screen time, in both urban and rural areas, utilizing non-invasive methods related to cardiovascular risk.
Study Design: We proposed an ex-post-facto and quantitative study.
Place and Duration of Study: Sample: Students selected from two regions of Rondônia (Brazil), between August 2023 and December 2023.
Methodology: After we recruited a total of 1045 schoolchildren aged 8 to 14 years, with 545 in the urban area and 500 in the rural area. The "Quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire" (QQFA) assessed the quality and quantity of food consumed over a year. Additionally, the "Self-Administered Physical Activity" (SAPAC) questionnaire evaluated daily physical activity time and sedentary behavior. Body composition of the children was also assessed.
Results: Children in rural areas demonstrated higher levels of physical activity (p < 0.05), with greater intensity (p < 0.05), and exhibited a preference for natural foods, including animal fat and unprocessed juices (p < 0.05). Moreover, they displayed lower body fat accumulation (p < 0.05), lower body mass (p < 0.05), lower BMI (p < 0.05), smaller waist circumference (p < 0.05), and improved waist-to-hip ratio (p < 0.05) and waist-to-height ratio (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed in blood pressure values (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: Non-invasive factors related to the development of cardiovascular diseases are more prevalent among urban schoolchildren compared to their rural counterparts. These factors are associated with a sedentary lifestyle and the quality and quantity of food consumed.
Study of Genetic Variability and Character Association for Yield and Components Traits in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Germplasm in Bundelkhand Region
Authors: Kumar Amit , Singh Anshuman , Arya Meenakshi , Bhanu A. Nishant , Kumar Vishnu , Chaturvedi S. K.
Published: August 2024

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a very important crop among the grain legume crops in India. It is grown in north India in the winter season on marginal and semi-marginal land as a commonly non-irrigated crop. Bundelkhand, a region in Uttar Pradesh, India, is notorious for its harsh climate, characterized by extreme heat and drought stress. Temperature fluctuate with highs reaching 50°C in summer and lows of 5°C in winter, exert substantial adverse effects on chickpea cultivation, impairing crop growth and yield and demand to have genetic resources used in breeding programs. The experiment aimed to characterize and evaluate 204 chickpea lines, including commercial varieties, to understand the magnitude of variability and the association of various yield parameters on the yield of chickpea based on 12 agro-morphological characters under Bundelkhand region. ANOVA shows that significant variation exists for most of the characteristics of chickpeas. Higher GCV and PCV were observed for plant population (GCV 24.92, PCV 31.22) followed by the number of secondary branches (GCV 21.61, PCV 26.55), number of pods per plant (GCV 12.92, PCV 18.47), seed yield per plant (GCV 11.39, PCV 21.98) and biological yield per plant (GCV 11.68, PCV 20.37), revealing that the environment plays a positive role in the expression of these characters. High heritability was found by 100 seed weight (96.41) followed by seed yield per plant (84.11) and number of pods per plant (66.26) and a high degree of genetic advance was found in the number of pods per plant (26.24) followed by biological and seed yield per plant (15.25 and 6.92). High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was found in seed yield per plant, followed by biological yield per plant, indicating selection could be rewarding in proper breeding programs. Correlation and path studies showed that biological yield per plant (r-0.91), number of pods per plant (r- 0.680), number of secondary branches per plant (r-0.46), number of seeds per pod (r-0.32) and 100 seed weight (0.29) turned out to be the main components for seed yield per plant in chickpea, stipulating that these characters could be desirable selection parameter.
Study of Subacute Toxicity in Wistar Rats Challenged with Phyllanthus amarus Schum and Thonn
Authors: Dennis Kpomah Enyohwo , Bridget Kpomah , Stanislaus Okonkwo Chisom
Published: August 2024

Phyllanthus amarus, a widely used plant in complementary and alternative medicine practice in Southern Nigeria, is used in treating and managing numerous metabolic disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. This study is designed to assess the subacute toxicity of P. amarus in Wistar rats using body and relative organ weight, renal function, in-vivo antioxidant status and organ histology indices as a baseline. The twenty adult male rats weighing 120.00 ± 6.18 g were apportioned into four groups with five rats per group. Group A (Control) received 1.0 mL of distilled water, group B received 1000 mg/kg group C received 1500 mg/kg and group D received 2000 mg/kg body weight of the crude ethanol extract. The extract from P. amarus was administered orally once daily at 8:30 am using an oral cannula attached to a 2 mL syringe. Subacute toxicity was evaluated after 14 days. The findings showed no visible and noticeable overt signs of toxicity throughout the experimental period, non-significant adverse change in body and relative organ weight, renal function and organ histopathology of the rats in the treated and control groups. However, P. amarus significantly  improved in-vivo antioxidant status while significantly reducing the level of malondialdehyde, a biological indicator of oxidative stress in the living system.
Microbial Forensics: Comparison of MLVA Results According to NGS Methods, and Forensic DNA Analysis Using MLVA
Authors: Yun Hyeongseok , Lee Seungho , Lim Seunghyun , Lee Daesang , Gu Sehun , Kim Jungeun , Jeong Juhwan , Kim Seongjoo , Hur Gyeunghaeng , Song Donghyun
Published: August 2024

Microbial forensics is a scientific discipline for analyzing evidence related to biological crimes by identifying the origin of microorganisms. Multiple locus variable number tandem repeat analysis(MLVA) is one of the microbiological analysis methods used to specify subtypes within a species based on the number of tandem repeat in the genome, and advances in next generation sequencing(NGS) technology have enabled in silico anlysis of full-length whole genome sequences. In this paper, we analyzed unknown samples provided by Robert Koch Institute(RKI) through The United Nations Secretary-General’s Mechanism(UNSGM)’s external quality assessment exercise(EQAE) project, which we officially participated in 2023. We confirmed that the 3 unknown samples were B. anthracis through nucleic acid isolation and genetic sequence analysis studies. MLVA results on 32 loci of B. anthracis were analysed by using genome sequences obtained from NGS(NextSeq and MinION) and Sanger sequencing. The MLVA typing using short-reads based NGS platform(NextSeq) showed a high probability of causing assembly error when a size of the tandem repeats was grater than 200 bp, while long-reads based NGS platform(MinION) showed higher accuracy than NextSeq, although insertion and deletion was observed. We also showed hybrid assembly can correct most indel error caused by MinION. Based on the MLVA results, genetic identification was performed compared to the 2,975 published MLVA databases of B. anthracis, and MLVA results of 10 strains were identical with 3 unkonwn samples. As a result of whole genome alignment of the 10 strains and 3 unknown samples, all samples were identified as B. anthracis strain A4564 which is associated with injectional anthrax isolates in heroin users.
An algorithm for approximating the L * invariant coordinate from the real‐time tracing of one magnetic field line between mirror points
Authors: Lejosne Solène
Published: August 2014

The L * invariant coordinate depends on the global electromagnetic field topology at a given instance, and the standard method for its determination requires a computationally expensive drift contour tracing. This fact makes L * a cumbersome parameter to handle. In this paper, we provide new insights on the L * parameter, and we introduce an algorithm for an L * approximation that only requires the real‐time tracing of one magnetic field line between mirrors points. This approximation is based on the description of the variation of the magnetic field mirror intensity after an adiabatic dipolarization, i.e., after the nondipolar components of a magnetic field have been turned off with a characteristic time very long in comparison with the particles' drift periods. The corresponding magnetic field topological variations are deduced, assuming that the field line foot points remain rooted in the Earth's surface, and the drift average operator is replaced with a computationally cheaper circular average operator. The algorithm results in a relative difference of a maximum of 12% between the approximate L * and the output obtained using the International Radiation Belt Environment Modeling library, in the case of the Tsyganenko 89 model for the external magnetic field (T89). This margin of error is similar to the margin of error due to small deviations between different magnetic field models at geostationary orbit. This approximate L * algorithm represents therefore a reasonable compromise between computational speed and accuracy of particular interest for real‐time space weather forecast purposes.
Vertical gradient correction for the oceanographic Atlas of the East Asian Seas
Authors: Chang You‐Soon , Shin Hong‐Ryeol
Published: August 2014

Regional climatology around the East Asian Seas has been developed by an international collaboration between the National Oceanic Data Center and the Korea Oceanic Data Center. It provides reliable information on temperature and salinity climatological fields with high resolution (0.1° × 0.1° by 137 levels). However, there is a problem around near‐bottom areas where topographic change is steep and observations are not available near the bottom. This study resolves this problem using a vertical gradient correction method when the profile is statically unstable. The stability is determined based on the Brunt‐Väisälä frequency with individual temperature and salinity profiles. Topographic‐following mapping technique employing the potential vorticity constraint term is used to construct a vertical gradient database for the temperature and salinity at every grid point. The results show that the correction is effective for eliminating large erroneous vertical gradients around near‐bottom areas. In addition, we show the importance of the optimal length scale to construct a precise vertical gradient database in a particular area such as the northern shelf of Taiwan. We expect that our revised high‐resolution climatological mean fields will serve as important data for relevant studies around the East Asian Seas.
Observed wintertime tidal and subtidal currents over the continental shelf in the northern South China Sea
Authors: Li Ruixiang , Chen Changsheng , Xia Huayong , Beardsley Robert C. , Shi Maochong , Lai Zhigang , Lin Huichan , Feng Yanqing , Liu Changjian , Xu Qichun , Ding Yang , Zhang Yu
Published: August 2014

Synthesis analyses were performed to examine characteristics of tidal and subtidal currents at eight mooring sites deployed over the northern South China Sea (NSCS) continental shelf in the 2006–2007 and 2009–2010 winters. Rotary spectra and harmonic analysis results showed that observed tidal currents in the NSCS were dominated by baroclinic diurnal tides with phases varying both vertically and horizontally. This feature was supported by the CC‐FVCOM results, which demonstrated that the diurnal tidal flow over this shelf was characterized by baroclinic Kelvin waves with vertical phase differences varying in different flow zones. The northeasterly wind‐induced southwestward flow prevailed over the NSCS shelf during winter, with episodic appearances of mesoscale eddies and a bottom‐intensified buoyancy‐driven slope water intrusion. The moored current records captured a warm‐core anticyclonic eddy, which originated from the southwestern coast of Taiwan and propagated southwestward along the slope consistent with a combination of β‐plane and topographic Rossby waves. The eddy was surface‐intensified with a swirl speed of >50 cm/s and a vertical scale of ∼400 m. In absence of eddies and onshore deep slope water intrusion, the observed southwestward flow was highly coherent with the northeasterly wind stress. Observations did not support the existence of the permanent wintertime South China Sea Warm Current (SCSWC). The definition of SCSWC, which was based mainly on thermal wind calculations with assumed level of no motion at the bottom, needs to be interpreted with caution since the observed circulation over the NSCS shelf in winter included both barotropic and baroclinic components.
Water vapor isotopic composition of a stratospheric air intrusion: Measurements from the Chajnantor Plateau, Chile
Authors: Galewsky Joseph , Samuels‐Crow Kimberly
Published: August 2014

Measurements of water vapor isotopic composition in stratospheric air intrusions can be used to constrain the dilution of the intrusion as it mixes into the middle troposphere. The intrusion studied here occurred on 17 and 18 August 2012 with measurements obtained at an altitude of 5 km in the Chilean Andes at the Atacama Large Millimeter Array astronomical observatory on the Chajnantor Plateau. Surface ozone concentrations rose 16 ppb in 6 h and were associated with a potential vorticity intrusion on the 330 K isentropic surface. A simulated stratospheric ozone tracer reaching Chajnantor also supports the interpretation of a stratospheric intrusion. Beginning around 18:00 UTC on 17 August, the mixing ratio dropped from 3000 ppmv to 430 ppmv as the water vapor δD values dropped from −153‰ to −438‰ over 13 h while the δ18O values dropped from −20‰ to −63‰. The average mixing ratio, δD, and δ18O values during August 2012 were measured to be 1500 ppmv, −250‰, and −34‰, respectively. The minimum water vapor concentration during the intrusion was in the driest 5% of measurements made during that month, while the minimum δD and δ18O values were within the lowest 0.5% of measurements made during that month. Simple two‐component models of mixing between stratospheric or upper tropospheric air with boundary layer air fail to reproduce observations, but a three‐component mixing model, in which the stratospheric intrusion mixes with an upper tropospheric background air mass, as it mixes with boundary layer air on Chajnantor, matches the observations.
A Triboelectric Generator Based on Checker‐Like Interdigital Electrodes with a Sandwiched PET Thin Film for Harvesting Sliding Energy in All Directions
Authors: Guo Hengyu , Leng Qiang , He Xianming , Wang Mingjun , Chen Jie , Hu Chenguo , Xi Yi
Published: August 2014

A triboelectric generator based on checker‐like interdigital electrodes (TEGC) with a sandwiched polyethylene terephthalate (PET) thin film that can convert translation kinetic energy in all directions to electricity is reported. The design of the sandwiched PET thin film can effectively avoid direct wear between metal electrodes and sliding panel. The mechanism of the TEGC is described in detail. The performance of the TEGC in different sliding directions is studied, indicating a maximum output power density of 1.9 W m‐2 and open‐circuit voltage of 210 V achieved in the X or Y sliding direction. The TEGC is used to charge a 110 μF commercial capacitor to 5 V in 35 s and light up two light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) connected with the capacitor simultaneously. The TEGC based mouse pad and sliding panel are fabricated to harvest mouse operation energy to light up LEDs connected in antiparallel when the computer mouse operates a game. The TEGC has advantages of being flexible, light weight, durable, cost effective, and portable by folding or rolling into a small part. This work presents a significant progress toward the structure design of triboelectric generator for its practical applications.
Influences of loading rate and preloading on the mechanical properties of dry elasto‐plastic granules under compression
Authors: Russell Alexander , Müller Peter , Shi Hao , Tomas Jürgen
Published: August 2014

To ensure high quality of granular products post‐industrial operations, it is necessary to precisely define their micro–macro mechanical properties. However, such an endeavor is arduous, owing to their highly inhomogeneous, anisotropic and history‐dependent nature. In this article, we present the distributed granular micromechanical and macromechanical, energetic and breakage characteristics using statistical distributions. We describe the material behavior of elastoplastic zeolite 4AK granules under uniaxial compressive loading until primary breakage, and localized cyclic loading up to different maximum force levels, at different displacement‐controlled loading rates. The observed force‐displacement behavior had been approximated and further evaluated using well‐known contact models. The results provide the basis for a detailed analysis of the viscous behavior of zeolite 4AK granules in the moist and wet states, indicating that higher compressive loads are required at higher displacement‐controlled loading rates to realize equivalent deformation and breakage probability achieved by loads at lower displacement‐controlled loading rates. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J 60: 4037–4050, 2014
Spoken language achieves robustness and evolvability by exploiting degeneracy and neutrality
Authors: Winter Bodo
Published: August 2014

As with biological systems, spoken languages are strikingly robust against perturbations. This paper shows that languages achieve robustness in a way that is highly similar to many biological systems. For example, speech sounds are encoded via multiple acoustically diverse, temporally distributed and functionally redundant cues, characteristics that bear similarities to what biologists call “degeneracy”. Speech is furthermore adequately characterized by neutrality, with many different tongue configurations leading to similar acoustic outputs, and different acoustic variants understood as the same by recipients. This highlights the presence of a large neutral network of acoustic neighbors for every speech sound. Such neutrality ensures that a steady backdrop of variation can be maintained without impeding communication, assuring that there is “fodder” for subsequent evolution. Thus, studying linguistic robustness is not only important for understanding how linguistic systems maintain their functioning upon the background of noise, but also for understanding the preconditions for language evolution.
Risk of bleeding and adverse outcomes predicted by thromboelastography platelet mapping in patients taking clopidogrel within 7 days of non-cardiac surgery
Authors: Kasivisvanathan R , Abbassi-Ghadi N , Kumar S , Mackenzie H , Thompson K , James K , Mallett S V
Published: August 2014

Background

Patients often fail to stop clopidogrel appropriately before non-cardiac surgery. Thromboelastography platelet mapping (TEG-PM) can be used to measure the percentage adenosine 5′-diphosphate platelet receptor inhibition (ADP-PRI) by clopidogrel in these patients.

Methods

This prospective case–control study investigated the risk of bleeding in patients who had taken clopidogrel within 7 days of scheduled operation. Patients underwent TEG-PM to stratify their bleeding risk. Low-risk (ADP-PRI below 30 per cent) and urgent priority high-risk (ADP-PRI 30 per cent or more) patients proceeded to surgery. The outcomes of these patients were compared with those of matched controls. Regression analysis, with bootstrapping validation, was used to identify independent risk factors for bleeding and an optimal cut-off value of ADP-PRI for cancellation of surgery.

Results

From May 2008 to October 2013, 182 patients failed to discontinue clopidogrel. No correlation was observed between duration of clopidogrel omission and percentage ADP-PRI; 112 low-risk and 19 high-risk patients proceeded to surgery. High-risk patients had significantly greater intraoperative packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusion in comparison with their matched controls, and a strong positive correlation between percentage ADP-PRI and units of intraoperative PRBCs transfused (r = 0·749, 95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 0·410 to 0·940; P < 0·001). Percentage ADP-PRI was the only independent risk factor for intraoperative PRBC transfusion (odds ratio 1·07, 95 per cent c.i. 1·02 to 1·13; P = 0·005).

Conclusion

An objective measure of platelet inhibition with TEG-PM, using an ADP-PRI cut-off of 34 per cent, can be used to prevent unnecessary cancellations, while minimizing patient risk.
Association between the rotation and three‐dimensional tortuosity of the proximal ascending aorta
Authors: Mori Shumpei , Yamashita Tomoya , Takaya Tomofumi , Kinugasa Mitsuo , Takamine Sachiko , Shigeru Mayumi , Ito Tatsuro , Fujiwara Sei , Nishii Tatsuya , Kono Atsushi K. , Hirata Ken‐ichi
Published: August 2014

Age‐related morphological changes of the aorta, including dilatation and elongation, have been reported. However, rotation has not been fully investigated. We focused on the rotation of the ascending aorta and investigated its relationship with tortuosity. One hundred and two consecutive patients who underwent computed tomography coronary angiography were studied. The angle at which the en face view of the volume‐rendered image of the right coronary aortic sinus (RCS) was obtained without foreshortening was defined as the rotation index. It was defined as zero if the RCS was squarely visible in the frontal view, positive if it rotated clockwise toward the left anterior oblique (LAO) direction, and negative if it rotated counter‐clockwise toward the right anterior oblique (RAO) direction. The tortuosity was evaluated by measuring the biplane tilt angles formed between the ascending aorta and the horizontal line. The mean rotation index, posterior tilt angle viewed from the RAO direction (αRAO), and anterior tilt angle viewed from the LAO direction (αLAO) were 4.8 ± 16.3, 60.7 ± 7.0°, and 63.6 ± 9.0°, respectively. Although no correlation was observed between the rotation index and the αLAO (β = −0.0761, P = 0.1651), there was a significant negative correlation between the rotation index and αRAO (β = −0.1810, P < 0.0001). In multivariate regression analysis, the rotation index was an independent predictor of the αRAO (β = −0.1274, P = 0.0008). Clockwise rotation of the proximal ascending aorta exacerbates the tortuosity by tilting the aorta toward the posterior direction. Clin. Anat. 27:1200–1211, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cytologic characterization of atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor in cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Huang Eric C. , Guzman Miguel A. , De Girolami Umberto , Cibas Edmund S.
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND

Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) is a rare and highly aggressive intracranial malignancy with a predilection to spread along the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pathways. To the authors' knowledge, the cytopathologic characteristics of this tumor have not been extensively studied in CSF. Herein the authors report CSF cytomorphology from a series of patients with histologically documented AT/RT.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 40 malignant CSF specimens from 10 patients with histologically confirmed AT/RT was conducted. All the patients were female and ranged in age from 0.8 to 19.6 years at the time of the initial diagnosis (median age, 1.3 years). Cytospin preparations were reviewed. In the majority of cases, at least 2 slides were prepared with the Wright‐Giemsa and/or Papanicolaou stains.

RESULTS

The CSF samples were predominantly moderately to highly cellular (80%). The 3 most common features were eccentrically placed nuclei (72.5%), prominent nucleoli (70%), and large tumor cells (67.5%). Two principal malignant cell types were noted; the most striking and recognizable form was a large, usually rhabdoid cell with an eccentrically placed nucleus, prominent nucleolus, and abundant cytoplasm, which was observed in 47.5% of the cases. The second type had a small cell appearance and was noted in 57.5% of the cases. Both large rhabdoid and small malignant cells were reported in 25% of the cases.

CONCLUSIONS

A significant percentage of CSF AT/RT cases consist of only the small cell component, without the characteristic large rhabdoid cells. Familiarity with this pattern of spread is imperative in differentiating AT/RT from other small cell malignancies such as medulloblastoma, because the clinical behavior and therapeutic regimens differ. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2014;122:903–908. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Regional and age‐related differences in GAD67 expression of parvalbumin‐ and calbindin‐expressing neurons in the rhesus macaque auditory midbrain and brainstem
Authors: Gray D.T. , Engle J.R. , Rudolph M.L. , Recanzone G.H.
Published: August 2014

Neurons expressing the calcium binding proteins (CaBPs) parvalbumin (PV) and calbindin (CB) have shown age‐related density changes throughout the ascending auditory system of both rodents and macaque monkeys. In the cerebral cortex, neurons expressing these CaBPs express markers of γ‐aminobutyric acidergic neurotransmission, such as GAD67, and have well‐understood physiological response properties. Recent evidence suggests that, in the rodent auditory brainstem, CaBP‐containing cells do not express GAD67. It is unknown whether PV‐ and CB‐containing cells in subcortical auditory structures of macaques similarly do not express GAD67, and a better understanding of the neurotransmission of neurons expressing these proteins is necessary for understanding the age‐related changes in their density throughout the macaque auditory system. This was investigated with immunofluorescent double‐labeling techniques to coregister PV‐ and CB‐expressing neurons with GAD67 in the superior olivary complex and the inferior colliculus of young and aged rhesus macaques. The proportions of GAD67‐expressing PV‐ and CB‐positive neurons were computed with unbiased sampling techniques. Our results indicate that between 42% and 62% of PV‐ and CB‐positive neurons in the auditory brainstem and midbrain express GAD67, which is significantly less than in the cerebrum. In general, fewer PV+ neurons and more CB+ neurons expressed GAD67 as a function of age. These results demonstrate that the inhibitory molecular profile of PV‐ and CB‐expressing neurons can change with age in subcortical auditory structures and that these neurons are distinct from the well‐described inhibitory interneurons that express these proteins in the cerebral cortex. J. Comp. Neurol. 522:4074–4084, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Atomic Layer Deposition of Transparent VOx Thin Films for Resistive Switching Applications
Authors: Singh Trilok , Wang Shuangzhou , Aslam Nabeel , Zhang Hehe , Hoffmann‐Eifert Susanne , Mathur Sanjay
Published: August 2014

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) offers nearly pinhole‐free, conformal, and with good thickness control, metal oxide nanometric thin films required for next‐generation memory devices. Here we report on the ALD of VOx thin films grown at about 100°C from a vanadium tri‐isopropoxide (VTIP) precursor, with water as the co‐reactant, followed by their post‐growth treatments, for potential applications in resistive switching (RS) devices. As‐grown VOx films are amorphous, and transform into polycrystalline layers upon annealing. Capacitor structures fabricated from amorphous VOx films show current‐voltage (I‐V) characteristics, interesting for RS applications. Depending on the electroforming conditions, bipolar‐type memory switching with a resistance ratio ROFF/RON > 103 is obtained, as well as a combination of memory and threshold switching. The latter is attractive for its highly non‐linear I‐V characteristics, which is attributed to the temperature‐induced insulator‐to‐metal transition (IMT) in vanadium dioxide.
Sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy: A “massive” misnomer
Authors: Sardana Divesh , Goyal Ashima , Gauba Krishan
Published: August 2014

Sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy also known as Rosai–Dorfman disease is a rare, benign, histiocytic disorder of unknown origin characterized by lymphadenopathy. Since its original description by Rosai and Dorfman in 1969, small number of cases has been reported; hence no specific diagnostic criteria and treatment guidelines have been suggested. The purpose of this article is to present and discuss a case of Rosai Dorfman Syndrome in 4‐year‐old child diagnosed with the help of Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology. The swelling resolved over a period of 18 months without any recurrence in 2‐year follow‐up period. This case report highlights the role of Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology in the diagnosis of Rosai–Dorfman disease and the importance of regular follow ups using a careful wait and watch approach in its management. The report also briefly discusses the various dilemmas associated with its diagnosis and treatment. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2015;43:315–319. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neonatal handling: An overview of the positive and negative effects
Authors: Raineki Charlis , Lucion Aldo B. , Weinberg Joanne
Published: August 2014

As one of the first rodent models designed to investigate the effects of early‐life experiences, the neonatal handling paradigm has helped us better understand how subtle changes in the infant environment can powerfully drive neurodevelopment of the immature brain in typical or atypical trajectories. Here, we review data from more than 50 years demonstrating the compelling effects of neonatal handling on behavior, physiology, and neural function across the lifespan. Moreover, we present data that challenge the classical view of neonatal handling as an animal model that results only in positive/beneficial outcomes. Indeed, the overall goal of this review is to offer the suggestion that the effects of early‐life experiences—including neonatal handling—are nuanced rather than unidirectional. Both beneficial and negative outcomes may occur, depending on the parameters of testing, sex of the subject, and neurobehavioral system analyzed. © 2014Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 56: 1613–1625, 2014.