bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute Ingestion of Caffeinated Chewing Gum Improves Repeated Sprint Performance of Team Sport Athletes With Low Habitual Caffeine Consumption
Authors: Evans Mark , Tierney Peter , Gray Nicola , Hawe Greg , Macken Maria , Egan Brendan
Published: November 2017

The effects of acute ingestion of caffeine on short-duration high-intensity performance are equivocal, while studies of novel modes of delivery and the efficacy of low doses of caffeine are warranted. The aims of the present study were to investigate the effect of acute ingestion of caffeinated chewing gum on repeated sprint performance (RSP) in team sport athletes, and whether habitual caffeine consumption alters the ergogenic effect, if any, on RSP. A total of 18 male team sport athletes undertook four RSP trials using a 40-m maximum shuttle run test, which incorporates 10 × 40-m sprints with 30 s between the start of each sprint. Each participant completed two familiarization sessions, followed by caffeine (CAF; caffeinated chewing gum; 200 mg caffeine) and placebo (PLA; noncaffeinated chewing gum) trials in a randomized, double-blind manner. RSP, assessed by sprint performance decrement (%), did not differ (p = .209; effect size = 0.16; N = 18) between CAF (5.00 ± 2.84%) and PLA (5.43 ± 2.68%). Secondary analysis revealed that low habitual caffeine consumers (<40 mg/day, n = 10) experienced an attenuation of sprint performance decrement during CAF relative to PLA (5.53 ± 3.12% vs. 6.53 ± 2.91%, respectively; p = .049; effect size =0.33); an effect not observed in moderate/high habitual caffeine consumers (>130 mg/day, n = 6; 3.98 ± 2.57% vs. 3.80 ± 1.79%, respectively; p = .684; effect size = 0.08). The data suggest that a low dose of caffeine in the form of caffeinated chewing gum attenuates the sprint performance decrement during RSP by team sport athletes with low, but not moderate-to-high, habitual consumption of caffeine.
The Effect of Mode of Transport on Intraindividual Variability in Glycemic and Insulinemic Response Testing
Authors: El-Chab Alaaddine , Clegg Miriam E.
Published: November 2017

The effect of light- to moderate-intensity exercise, such as that used as a mode of transport, on glycemic response testing is unclear. The aim was to investigate the effect of acute exercise (walking and cycling), simulated to act as a mode of transport, prior to glycemic response testing on the intraindividual variability of blood glucose and insulin. A total of 11 male participants visited the laboratory four times. Initially, they undertook a maximum oxygen uptake and two submaximal exercise tests. For the other three visits, they either rested (25 min), cycled, or walked 5 km followed by a 2-hr glycemic response test after consuming a glucose drink (50 g of available carbohydrate). The mean coefficient of variation of each transport group was below the International Organization for Standardization cutoff of 30%. The highest mean coefficient of variation of glucose area under the curve (AUC) was between the rest and the walking trials (30%) followed by walking and cycling (26%). For insulin AUC, the highest mean coefficient of variation was between walking and cycling (28%) followed by rest and walking (24%). The lowest glucose AUC and insulin AUC were between rest and cycling (25% and 14%, respectively). This study did not find differences (p > .05) between the conditions for glucose AUC (at 120 min, rest: 134.5 ± 104.6 mmol/L; walking: 115.5 ± 71.7 mmol/L; and cycling: 142.5 ± 75 mmol/L) and insulin AUC (at 120 min, rest: 19.45 ± 9.12 μmol/ml; walking: 16.49 ± 8.42 μmol/ml; and cycling: 18.55 ± 9.23 μmol/ml). The results indicate no difference between the tests undertaken; however, further research should ensure the inclusion of two rest conditions.
Validity of the Online Athlete Management System to Assess Training Load
Authors: Menaspà Miranda J. , Menaspà Paolo , Clark Sally A. , Fanchini Maurizio
Published: November 2017

Purpose: To validate the quantification of training load (session rating of perceived exertion [s-RPE]) in an Australian Olympic squad (women’s water polo), assessed with the use of a modified RPE scale collected via a newly developed online system (athlete management system). Methods: Sixteen elite women water polo players (age = 26 [3] y, height  = 1.78 [0.05] m, and body mass  = 75.5 [7.1] kg) participated in the study. Thirty training sessions were monitored for a total of 303 individual sessions. Heart rate was recorded during training sessions using continuous heart-rate telemetry. Participants were asked to rate the intensity of the training sessions on the athlete management system RPE scale, using an online application within 30 min of completion of the sessions. Individual relationships between s-RPE and both Banister training impulse (TRIMP) and Edwards’ method were analyzed. Results: Individual correlations with s-RPE ranged between r = .51 and .79 (Banister TRIMP) and r = .54 and .83 (Edwards’ method). The percentages of moderate and large correlation were 81% and 19% between s-RPE method and Banister TRIMP, and 56% and 44% between s-RPE and Edwards’ method. Conclusions: The online athlete management system for assessing s-RPE was shown to be a valid indicator of internal training load and can be used in elite sport.
The Postinjury Psychological Sequelae of High-Level Jamaican Athletes: Exploration of a Posttraumatic Stress Disorder–Self-Efficacy Conceptualization
Authors: Bateman André , Morgan Kai A.D.
Published: November 2017

Context:Athletes at the highest levels appear to be most affected by sport-related injuries and suffer both physiologically and psychologically. Established models of psychological responses to injury, however, do not offer a comprehensive explanation based on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), although some studies suggest that injuries may be interpreted as traumatic. Studies also suggest that perceived self-efficacy may be a mediator of PTSD development.Objective:This study examines the psychological sequelae experienced by high-level athletes as a result of sport-related injuries based on a PTSD–self-efficacy framework.Design:A cross-sectional survey design was used.Participants:Forty-six athletes (30 males and 16 females) from 4 different sports were conveniently sampled and completed a questionnaire battery assessing injury characteristics, trauma sequelae, and self-efficacy.Main Outcome Measures:Present injury status, PTSD symptomatology, and general self-efficacy.Results:Injury was found to be associated with elevated levels of PTSD symptomatology. The presence of injury was a significant predictor of general PTSD and, specifically, hyperarousal symptoms; however, general self-efficacy was not found to predict trauma-related symptoms. There were indications, however, that self-efficacy beliefs may affect injury-related factors.Conclusions:This research highlights the presence of PTSD-related psychological dysfunction associated with sport injury, and further uncovers the possible impacts of self-efficacy beliefs in managing the stress of injury. These findings highlight the need for psychological support as injured athletes undergo rehabilitation.
Humor, Irony, and Indigenous Peoples: A Re-Reading of the Historical Record of the 1904 St. Louis Olympic Championship
Authors: O’Bonsawin Christine M.
Published: November 2017

This paper serves as a re-reading of the historical record concerning the participation of a Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) team in the lacrosse championship of the 1904 St. Louis Olympic Games. Indigenous and deconstructionist methodological frameworks provide historians with strategies for reopening archival texts to ironic interpretation in the hope that we may better recognize the efforts of Indigenous peoples to confront and challenge colonial hegemony. Accordingly, this paper first evaluates the uncritical acceptance of a Kanien’kehá:ka lacrosse player roster comprising unconventional names into the official Olympic record. Second, a re-reading of archival texts allows us to reopen history to ironic interpretation, exposing the possibility that Kanien’kehá:ka players used humor and laughter to resist, subvert, and, ultimately, deny colonial hegemony. We may begin to support the larger missions of Indigenous resurgence and decolonization by revisiting our histories, and thus giving testimony to the past.
Reading Frank Grace’s Record: Life Writing and Lacrosse in Early Twentieth-Century Canada
Authors: Holman Andrew C.
Published: November 2017

This essay assesses the merits of life writing in sport history as it is represented in one rare document, the Record, a diary-notebook-scrapbook constructed by lacrosse player Frank J. Grace (1878–1954) beginning in 1907. A talented athlete, Grace was a professional “tourist” who suited up for teams in Ottawa, Hamilton, Toronto, Chatham, Orillia, and Winnipeg during the twilight of Canadian lacrosse; that is, in the years preceding World War I. The highlight of Grace’s career was his selection to the All-Canada Lacrosse Team that traveled to play 16 games against teams in Australia in July and August of 1907, which prompted him to begin recording his life in the sport. This study makes sense of the Record by examining its making as an historical document, by placing it in the context of its times, and by interpreting the story it tells about Grace’s life in the game.
Therapeutic targeting of PGBD5-induced DNA repair dependency in pediatric solid tumors
Authors: Henssen Anton G. , Reed Casie , Jiang Eileen , Garcia Heathcliff Dorado , von Stebut Jennifer , MacArthur Ian C. , Hundsdoerfer Patrick , Kim Jun Hyun , de Stanchina Elisa , Kuwahara Yasumichi , Hosoi Hajime , Ganem Neil J. , Dela Cruz Filemon , Kung Andrew L. , Schulte Johannes H. , Petrini John H. , Kentsis Alex
Published: November 2017

PGBD5 DNA transposase confers therapeutically actionable dependency in solid tumors.
Merkel Cell Polyomavirus Small T Antigen Drives Cell Motility via Rho-GTPase-Induced Filopodium Formation
Authors: Stakaitytė Gabrielė , Nwogu Nnenna , Dobson Samuel J. , Knight Laura M. , Wasson Christopher W. , Salguero Francisco J. , Blackbourn David J. , Blair G. Eric , Mankouri Jamel , Macdonald Andrew , Whitehouse Adrian
Published: November 2017

Cell motility and migration is a complex, multistep, and multicomponent process intrinsic to progression and metastasis. Motility is dependent on the activities of integrin receptors and Rho family GTPases, resulting in the remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton and formation of various motile actin-based protrusions. Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive skin cancer with a high likelihood of recurrence and metastasis. Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is associated with the majority of MCC cases, and MCPyV-induced tumorigenesis largely depends on the expression of the small tumor antigen (ST). Since the discovery of MCPyV, a number of mechanisms have been suggested to account for replication and tumorigenesis, but to date, little is known about potential links between MCPyV T antigen expression and the metastatic nature of MCC. Previously, we described the action of MCPyV ST on the microtubule network and how it impacts cell motility and migration. Here, we demonstrate that MCPyV ST affects the actin cytoskeleton to promote the formation of filopodia through a mechanism involving the catalytic subunit of protein phosphatase 4 (PP4C). We also show that MCPyV ST-induced cell motility is dependent upon the activities of the Rho family GTPases Cdc42 and RhoA. In addition, our results indicate that the MCPyV ST-PP4C interaction results in the dephosphorylation of β
1
integrin, likely driving the cell motility pathway. These findings describe a novel mechanism by which a tumor virus induces cell motility, which may ultimately lead to cancer metastasis, and provides opportunities and strategies for targeted interventions for disseminated MCC.

IMPORTANCE
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is the most recently discovered human tumor virus. It causes the majority of cases of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), an aggressive skin cancer. However, the molecular mechanisms implicating MCPyV-encoded proteins in cancer development are yet to be fully elucidated. This study builds upon our previous observations, which demonstrated that the MCPyV ST antigen enhances cell motility, providing a potential link between MCPyV protein expression and the highly metastatic nature of MCC. Here, we show that MCPyV ST remodels the actin cytoskeleton, promoting the formation of filopodia, which is essential for MCPyV ST-induced cell motility, and we also implicate the activity of specific Rho family GTPases, Cdc42 and RhoA, in these processes. Moreover, we describe a novel mechanism for the activation of Rho-GTPases and the cell motility pathway due to the interaction between MCPyV ST and the cellular phosphatase catalytic subunit PP4C, which leads to the specific dephosphorylation of β1 integrin. These findings may therefore provide novel strategies for therapeutic intervention for disseminated MCC.
Analysis of Select Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1) Proteins for Restriction of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 (HIV-1): HSV-1 gM Protein Potently Restricts HIV-1 by Preventing Intracellular Transport and Processing of Env gp160
Authors: Polpitiya Arachchige Sachith , Henke Wyatt , Pramanik Ankita , Kalamvoki Maria , Stephens Edward B.
Published: November 2017

Virus-encoded proteins that impair or shut down specific host cell functions during replication can be used as probes to identify potential proteins/pathways used in the replication of viruses from other families. We screened nine proteins from herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) for the ability to enhance or restrict human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) replication. We show that several HSV-1 proteins (glycoprotein M [gM], US3, and UL24) potently restricted the replication of HIV-1. Unlike UL24 and US3, which reduced viral protein synthesis, we observed that gM restriction of HIV-1 occurred through interference with the processing and transport of gp160, resulting in a significantly reduced level of mature gp120/gp41 released from cells. Finally, we show that an HSV-1 gM mutant lacking the majority of the C-terminal domain (HA-gM[Δ345-473]) restricted neither gp160 processing nor the release of infectious virus. These studies identify proteins from heterologous viruses that can restrict viruses through novel pathways.

IMPORTANCE
HIV-1 infection of humans results in AIDS, characterized by the loss of CD4
+
T cells and increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections. Both HIV-1 and HSV-1 can infect astrocytes and microglia of the central nervous system (CNS). Thus, the identification of HSV-1 proteins that directly restrict HIV-1 or interfere with pathways required for HIV-1 replication could lead to novel antiretroviral strategies. The results of this study show that select viral proteins from HSV-1 can potently restrict HIV-1. Further, our results indicate that the gM protein of HSV-1 restricts HIV-1 through a novel pathway by interfering with the processing of gp160 and its incorporation into virus maturing from the cell.
Use of emergency department point-of-care ultrasound in a case of cholecystitis
Authors: Lim Nicolas , McCabe Aileen , Cronin John
Published: November 2017

A 54-year-old man presented with severe right upper quadrant (RUQ) abdominal pain. He denied any infective symptoms. On clinical examination, he was afebrile and anicteric. His abdomen was soft with tenderness elicited on the RUQ. A point-of-care ultrasound in the emergency department demonstrated a distended gallbladder with a thickened wall and an impacted large gallstone at the neck of the gallbladder. Furthermore, the point-of-care ultrasound also identified a highly reflective echo from the anterior surface of the gallstone and marked posterior acoustic shadowing. A diagnosis of cholecysitis was made after confirmatory ultrasonography performed in the radiology department. The patient had a cholecystostomy performed under interventional radiology and was managed with course of intravenous antibiotics for 7 days. He was discharged from hospital with an elective cholecystectomy planned to be performed 8 weeks posthospital discharge.
Aortic valve replacement associated with survival in severe regurgitation and low ejection fraction
Authors: Fiedler Amy G , Bhambhani Vijeta , Laikhter Elizabeth , Picard Michael H , Wasfy Meagan M , Tolis George , Melnitchouk Serguei , Sundt Thoralf M , Wasfy Jason H
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Although guidelines support aortic valve replacement (AVR) in patients with severe aortic regurgitation (AR) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <50%, severe left ventricular dysfunction (LVEF <35%) is thought to confer high surgical risk. We sought to determine if a survival benefit exists with AVR compared with medical management in this high-risk, relatively rare population.

Methods

A large institutional echocardiography database was queried to identify patients with severe AR and LVEF <35%. Manual chart review was performed. Due to small sample size and population heterogeneity, corrected group prognosis method was applied, which calculates the adjusted survival curve for each individual using fitted Cox proportional hazard model. Average survival adjusted for comorbidities and age was then calculated using the weighted average of the individual survival curves.

Results

Initially, 2 54 614 echocardiograms were considered, representing 1 45 785 unique patients, of which 40 patients met inclusion criteria. Of those, 18 (45.0%) underwent AVR and 22 (55.0%) were managed medically. Absolute mortality was 27.8% in the AVR group and 91.2% in the medical management group. After multivariate adjustment, end-stage renal disease (HR=17.633, p=0.0335) and peripheral arterial disease (HR=6.050, p=0.0180) were associated with higher mortality. AVR was associated with lower mortality (HR=0.143, p=0.0490). Mean follow-up time of the study cohort was 6.58 years, and mean survival for patients undergoing AVR was 6.31 years.

Conclusions

Even after adjustment for clinical characteristics and patient age, AVR is associated with higher survival for patients with low LVEF and severe AR. Although treatment selection bias cannot be completely eliminated by this analysis, these results provide some evidence that surgery may be associated with prolonged survival in this high-risk patient group.
Aortic sinus diameter in middle age is associated with body size in young adulthood
Authors: Hernesniemi Jussi A , Heiskanen Jarkko , Ruohonen Saku , Kartiosuo Noora , Hutri-Kähönen Nina , Kähönen Mika , Jokinen Eero , Tossavainen Päivi , Kallio Merja , Laitinen Tomi , Lehtimäki Terho , Viikari Jorma S A , Juonala Markus , Raitakari Olli T
Published: November 2017

Objective

Aortic sinus dilatation can lead to aortic valve regurgitation or even aortic dissection. Our objective was to examine the association between body surface area (BSA) measures from childhood to middle age and aortic sinus diameter in middle age. Understanding the relation of these two clarifies how aortic size is normally determined.

Methods

Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study is a longitudinal study with follow-up of over 31 years (1980–2011). The study comprises information of body composition from multiple time points of 1950 subjects with cardiac ultrasound measurements made in 2011. The association between BSA in different ages and aortic sinus diameter in middle age was analysed by linear regression modelling adjusted with age, sex and diastolic blood pressure. Missing BSA values were derived for each life year (ages 3–33 years) from subject-specific curves for body weight and height estimated from longitudinal measurements using mixed model regression splines.

Results

BSA estimates in early 20s are most strongly associated with aortic sinus diameter in middle age. Top association was observed at age 23 years with one SD increase in estimated BSA corresponding to 1.04 mm (0.87–1.21 mm) increase in aortic diameter. Increase in body weight beyond early 20s does not associate with aortic sinus diameter, and the association between middle age BSA and aortic size is substantially weaker (0.74 mm increase (0.58–0.89 mm)). These results were confirmed in a subpopulation using only measured data.

Conclusion

The association between aortic sinus diameter and BSA is stronger when considering BSA in young adulthood compared with BSA in middle age.
Postnatal nutritional treatment of neurocognitive deficits in fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
Authors: Bastons-Compta A. , Astals M. , Andreu-Fernandez V. , Navarro-Tapia E. , Garcia-Algar O.
Published: November 2017

Ethanol is the most important teratogen agent in humans. Prenatal alcohol exposure can lead to a wide range of adverse effects, which are broadly termed as fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). The most severe consequence of maternal alcohol abuse is the development of fetal alcohol syndrome, defined by growth retardation, facial malformations, and central nervous system impairment expressed as microcephaly and neurodevelopment abnormalities. These alterations generate a broad range of cognitive abnormalities such as learning disabilities and hyperactivity and behavioural problems. Socioeconomic status, ethnicity, differences in genetic susceptibility related to ethanol metabolism, alcohol consumption patterns, obstetric problems, and environmental influences like maternal nutrition, stress, and other co-administered drugs are all factors that may influence FASD manifestations. Recently, much attention has been paid to the role of nutrition as a protective factor against alcohol teratogenicity. There are a great number of papers related to nutritional treatment of nutritional deficits due to several factors associated with maternal consumption of alcohol and with eating and social disorders in FASD children. Although research showed the clinical benefits of nutritional interventions, most of work was in animal models, in a preclinical phase, or in the prenatal period. However, a minimum number of studies refer to postnatal nutrition treatment of neurodevelopmental deficits. Nutritional supplementation in children with FASD has a dual objective: to overcome nutritional deficiencies and to reverse or improve the cognitive deleterious effects of prenatal alcohol exposure. Further research is necessary to confirm positive results, to determine optimal amounts of nutrients needed in supplementation, and to investigate the collective effects of simultaneous multiple-nutrient supplementation.
Skeletal muscle and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
Authors: Myrie Semone B. , Pinder Mark A.
Published: November 2017

Skeletal muscle is critical for mobility and many metabolic functions integral to survival and long-term health. Alcohol can affect skeletal muscle physiology and metabolism, which will have immediate and long-term consequences on health. While skeletal muscle abnormalities, including morphological, biochemical, and functional impairments, are well-documented in adults that excessively consume alcohol, there is a scarcity of information about the skeletal muscle in the offspring prenatally exposed to alcohol (“prenatal alcohol exposure”; PAE). This minireview examines the available studies addressing skeletal muscle abnormalities due to PAE. Growth restriction, fetal alcohol myopathy, and abnormalities in the neuromuscular system, which contribute to deficits in locomotion, are some direct, immediate consequences of PAE on skeletal muscle morphology and function. Long-term health consequences of PAE-related skeletal abnormalities include impaired glucose metabolism in the skeletal muscle, resulting in glucose intolerance and insulin resistance, leading to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. In general, there is limited information on the morphological, biochemical, and functional features of skeletal abnormalities in PAE offspring. There is a need to understand how PAE affects muscle growth and function at the cellular level during early development to improve the immediate and long-term health of offspring suffering from PAE.
North–South dynamics of hyperbolic free group automorphisms on the space of currents
Authors: Lustig Martin , Uyanik Caglar
Published: November 2017

Let [Formula: see text] be a hyperbolic outer automorphism of a non-abelian free group [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] admit absolute train track representatives. We prove that [Formula: see text] acts on the space of projectivized geodesic currents on [Formula: see text] with generalized uniform North-South dynamics.
Structural and ferroelectric properties of Sr1−xBaxBi2Nb2O9 thin films obtained by dip-coating
Authors: González-Abreu Y. , Peláiz-Barranco A. , Saint-Grégoire P. , Moreno-Crespo C. E. , Limborço H. , González J. C.
Published: November 2017

The paper presents the structural and ferroelectric results for Sr[Formula: see text]BaxBi2Nb2O9([Formula: see text]; 0.85) thin films, which were obtained by using dip-coating. The solutions containing the desirable ions were prepared from the powders of the previous studied ceramic samples. The films were deposited at room temperature on Fluorine-doped Tin Oxide (FTO) substrates and submitted to a heat treatment for crystallization. The films were characterized by using scanning microscopy electronic, energy dispersive spectroscopy and ellipsometry. Hysteresis ferroelectric loops were obtained, at room temperature, by using a Sawyer-Tower circuit at several frequencies. A well-defined grain structure was observed for both compositions. The energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) measurements revealed the presence of the corresponding elements from the chemical composition of the ceramic systems. The band-gap energy was around 3.3[Formula: see text]eV for both samples. Typical hysteresis loops for normal and relaxor ferroelectrics were obtained for [Formula: see text] and 0.85, respectively.
Using Coq to write fast and correct Haskell
Authors: Wiegley John , Delaware Benjamin
Published: November 2017

Correctness and performance are often at odds in the field of systems engineering, either because correct programs are too costly to write or impractical to execute, or because well-performing code involves so many tricks of the trade that formal analysis is unable to isolate the main properties of the algorithm.

As a prime example of this tension, Coq is an established proof environment that allows writing correct, dependently-typed code, but it has been criticized for exorbitant development times, forcing the developer to choose between optimal code or tractable proofs. On the other side of the divide, Haskell has proven itself to be a capable, well-typed programming environment, yet easy-to-read, straightforward code must all too often be replaced by highly optimized variants that obscure the author's original intention.

This paper builds on the existing Fiat refinement framework to bridge this divide, demonstrating how to derive a correct-by-construction implementation that meets (or exceeds) the performance characteristics of highly optimized Haskell, starting from a high-level Coq specification. To achieve this goal, we extend Fiat with a stateful notion of refinement of abstract data types and add support for extracting stateful code via a free monad equipped with an algebra of heap-manipulating operations. As a case study, we reimplement a subset of the popular bytestring library, with little to no loss of performance, while retaining a high guarantee of program correctness.
Composable network stacks and remote monads
Authors: Dawson Justin , Grebe Mark , Gill Andy
Published: November 2017

Monads and applicative functors are two ways that Haskell programmers bundle effectful primitives into effectful program fragments. In this paper, we investigate using monads and applicative functors to bundle remote effectful primitives, specifically aiming to amortize the cost of remote communications using bundling. We look at several ways of maximizing the bundling of primitives, drawing from the remote monad design pattern and Haxl system, and provide a taxonomy of mechanism for amortization, with examples. The result of this investigation is that monadic fragments can be efficiently bundled into packets, almost for free, when given a user-supplied packet transportation mechanism, and the primitives obey some simple pre- and post-conditions.
Algorithmic music in Haskell (invited talk)
Authors: Quick Donya
Published: November 2017

Functional programming is becoming increasingly popular in artistic areas such as algorithmic music composition. Euterpea and Kulitta are two libraries for working with music in Haskell. Euterpea is a library for representing and manipulating basic musical structures, and is useful both in a pedagogical setting to teach functional programming through the arts and as a tool to create complex pieces of algorithmic music. Kulitta is a framework for automated composition that addresses music at a more abstract level than Euterpea, capturing aspects of musical style through geometric models and probabilistic grammars. Both of these libraries leverage Haskell’s pure functional nature and strong type system to achieve versatile, yet concise designs that allow the creation of diverse and interesting music. Features from these libraries have also been integral in the design of newer systems for natural language processing and artificial intelligence in the musical domain. This talk will explore challenges presented by creating these kinds of domain-specific embedded languages for working with music, and how taking functional approaches to them yields elegant solutions.
Strategies to augment volitional and reflex function may improve locomotor capacity following incomplete spinal cord injury
Authors: Leech Kristan A. , Kim Hyosub E. , Hornby T. George
Published: November 2017

Many studies highlight the remarkable plasticity demonstrated by spinal circuits following an incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI). Such plasticity can contribute to improvements in volitional motor recovery, such as walking function, although similar mechanisms underlying this recovery may also contribute to the manifestation of exaggerated responses to afferent input, or spastic behaviors. Rehabilitation interventions directed toward augmenting spinal excitability have shown some initial success in improving locomotor function. However, the potential effects of these strategies on involuntary motor behaviors may be of concern. In this article, we provide a brief review of the mechanisms underlying recovery of volitional function and exaggerated reflexes, and the potential overlap between these changes. We then highlight findings from studies that explore changes in spinal excitability during volitional movement in controlled conditions, as well as altered kinematic and behavioral performance during functional tasks. The initial focus will be directed toward recovery of reflex and volitional behaviors following incomplete SCI, followed by recent work elucidating neurophysiological mechanisms underlying patterns of static and dynamic muscle activation following chronic incomplete SCI during primarily single-joint movements. We will then transition to studies of locomotor function and the role of altered spinal integration following incomplete SCI, including enhanced excitability of specific spinal circuits with physical and pharmacological interventions that can modulate locomotor output. The effects of previous and newly developed strategies will need to focus on changes in both volitional function and involuntary spastic reflexes for the successful translation of effective therapies to the clinical setting.
Age- and speed-dependent modulation of gaits in DSCAM2Jmutant mice
Authors: Thiry Louise , Lemieux Maxime , Bretzner Frédéric
Published: November 2017

Gaits depend on the interplay between distributed spinal neural networks, termed central pattern generators, generating rhythmic and coordinated movements, primary afferents, and descending supraspinal inputs. Recent studies demonstrated that the mouse displays a rich repertoire of gaits. Changes in gaits occur in mutant mice lacking particular neurons or molecular signaling pathways implicated in the normal establishment of these neural networks. Given the role of the Down syndrome cell adherence molecule (DSCAM) to the formation and maintenance of spinal interneuronal circuits and sensorimotor integration, we have investigated its functional contribution to gaits over a wide range of locomotor speeds using freely walking mice. We show in this study that the DSCAM2Jmutation, while not precluding any gait, impairs the age- and speed-dependent modulation of gaits. It impairs the ability of mice to maintain their locomotion at high treadmill speeds. DSCAM2Jmutation induces the dominance of lateral walk over trot and the emergence of aberrant gaits for mice, such as pace and diagonal walk. Gaits were also more labile in DSCAM2Jmutant mice, i.e., less stable, less attractive, and less predictable than in their wild-type littermates. Our results suggest that the DSCAM mutation affects the behavioral repertoire of gaits in an age- and speed-dependent manner.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Gaits evolve throughout development, up to adulthood, and according to the genetic background. Using mutant mice lacking DSCAM (a cell adherence molecule associated with Down syndrome), we show that the DSCAM2Jmutation alters the repertoire of gaits according to the mouse’s age and speed, and prevents fast gaits. Such an incapacity suggests a reorganization of spinal, propriospinal, and supraspinal neuronal circuits underlying locomotor control in DSCAM2Jmutant mice.
Effect of high-fat diet on secreted milk transcriptome in midlactation mice
Authors: Chen Y. , Wang J. , Yang S. , Utturkar S. , Crodian J. , Cummings S. , Thimmapuram J. , San Miguel P. , Kuang S. , Gribskov M. , Plaut K. , Casey T.
Published: November 2017

High-fat diet (HFD) during lactation alters milk composition and is associated with development of metabolic diseases in the offspring. We hypothesized that HFD affects milk microRNA (miRNA) and mRNA content, which potentially impact offspring development. Our objective was to determine the effect of maternal HFD on secreted milk transcriptome. To meet this objective, 4 wk old female ICR mice were divided into two treatments: control diet containing 10% kcal fat and HFD containing 60% kcal fat. After 4 wk on CD or HFD, mice were bred while continuously fed the same diets. On postnatal day 2 (P2), litters were normalized to 10 pups, and half the pups in each litter were cross-fostered between treatments. Milk was collected from dams on P10 and P12. Total RNA was isolated from milk fat fraction of P10 samples and used for mRNA-Seq and small RNA-Seq. P12 milk was used to determine macronutrient composition. After 4 wk of prepregnancy feeding HFD mice weighed significantly more than did the control mice. Lactose and fat concentration were significantly ( P < 0.05) higher in milk of HFD dams. Pup weight was significantly greater ( P < 0.05) in groups suckled by HFD vs. control dams. There were 25 miRNA and over 1,500 mRNA differentially expressed (DE) in milk of HFD vs. control dams. DE mRNA and target genes of DE miRNA enriched categories that were primarily related to multicellular organismal development. Maternal HFD impacts mRNA and miRNA content of milk, if bioactive nucleic acids are absorbed by neonate differences may affect development.
Advances in Hybrid Polymer-Based Materials for Sustained Drug Release
Authors: Ribeiro Lígia N. M. , Alcântara Ana C. S. , Rodrigues da Silva Gustavo H. , Franz-Montan Michelle , Nista Silvia V. G. , Castro Simone R. , Couto Verônica M. , Guilherme Viviane A. , de Paula Eneida
Published: November 2017

The use of biomaterials composed of organic pristine components has been successfully described in several purposes, such as tissue engineering and drug delivery. Drug delivery systems (DDS) have shown several advantages over traditional drug therapy, such as greater therapeutic efficacy, prolonged delivery profile, and reduced drug toxicity, as evidenced byin vitroandin vivostudies as well as clinical trials. Despite that, there is no perfect delivery carrier, and issues such as undesirable viscosity and physicochemical stability or inability to efficiently encapsulate hydrophilic/hydrophobic molecules still persist, limiting DDS applications. To overcome that, biohybrid systems, originating from the synergistic assembly of polymers and other organic materials such as proteins and lipids, have recently been described, yielding molecularly planned biohybrid systems that are able to optimize structures to easily interact with the targets. This work revised the biohybrid DDS clarifying their advantages, limitations, and future perspectives in an attempt to contribute to further research of innovative and safe biohybrid polymer-based system as biomaterials for the sustained release of active molecules.
Enhanced Group Delay of the Pulse Reflection with Graphene Surface Plasmon via Modified Otto Configuration
Authors: Li Guimei , Liu Qiwei , Liu Yue , Wei Yueying , Weng Rui , Zhou Yuxiang , Jiang Leyong
Published: November 2017

In this paper, the group delay of the transverse magnetic (TM) polarized wave reflected from a modified Otto configuration with graphene surface plasmon is investigated theoretically. The findings show that the optical group delay in this structure can be enhanced negatively and can be switched from negative to positive due to the excitation of surface plasmon by graphene. It is clear that the negative group delay can be actively tuned through the Fermi energy of the graphene. Furthermore, the delay properties can also be manipulated by changing either the relaxation time of graphene or the distance between the coupling prism and the graphene. These tunable delay characteristics are promising for fabricating grapheme-based optical delay devices and other applications in the terahertz regime.
A Hysteresis‐Based Steering Feel Model for Steer‐by‐Wire Systems
Authors: Arslan M. Selçuk
Published: November 2017

A mathematical model of steering feel based on a hysteresis model is proposed for Steer‐by‐Wire systems. The normalized Bouc‐Wen hysteresis model is used to describe the steering wheel torque feedback to the driver. By modifying the mathematical model of the hysteresis model for a steering system and adding custom parameters, the availability of adjusting the shape of steering feel model for various physical and dynamic conditions increases. Addition of a term about the tire dynamics to the steering feel model renders the steering wheel torque feedback more informative about the tire road interaction. Some simulation results are presented to establish the feasibility of the proposed model. The results of hardware‐in‐the‐loop simulations show that the model provides a realistic and informative steering feel.
On Measuring the Complexity of Networks: Kolmogorov Complexity versus Entropy
Authors: Morzy Mikołaj , Kajdanowicz Tomasz , Kazienko Przemysław
Published: November 2017

One of the most popular methods of estimating the complexity of networks is to measure the entropy of network invariants, such as adjacency matrices or degree sequences. Unfortunately, entropy and all entropy-based information-theoretic measures have several vulnerabilities. These measures neither are independent of a particular representation of the network nor can capture the properties of the generative process, which produces the network. Instead, we advocate the use of the algorithmic entropy as the basis for complexity definition for networks. Algorithmic entropy (also known as Kolmogorov complexity or K-complexity for short) evaluates the complexity of the description required for a lossless recreation of the network. This measure is not affected by a particular choice of network features and it does not depend on the method of network representation. We perform experiments on Shannon entropy and K-complexity for gradually evolving networks. The results of these experiments point to K-complexity as the more robust and reliable measure of network complexity. The original contribution of the paper includes the introduction of several new entropy-deceiving networks and the empirical comparison of entropy and K-complexity as fundamental quantities for constructing complexity measures for networks.
Adiposity Measures and Plasma Adipokines in Females with Rheumatoid and Osteoarthritis
Authors: DeClercq Vanessa , Cui Yunsong , Forbes Cynthia , Grandy Scott A. , Keats Melanie , Parker Louise , Sweeney Ellen , Yu Zhijie Michael , Dummer Trevor J. B.
Published: November 2017

The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between adipokines and adiposity in individuals with rheumatoid and osteoarthritis in the Atlantic PATH cohort. Using a nested case-control analysis, participants in the Atlantic PATH cohort with rheumatoid or osteoarthritis were matched for measures of adiposity with participants without a history of arthritis. Both measured and self-reported data were used to examine disease status, adiposity, and lifestyle factors. Immunoassays were used to measure plasma markers. BMI was positively correlated with percentage body fat, fat mass index (FMI), and a change in BMI from 18 years of age in all 3 groups. There were no statistical differences between levels of plasma adipokines; adiponectin levels were 6.6, 7.9, and 8.2 μg/ml, leptin levels were 10.3, 13.7, and 11.5 ng/ml, and resistin levels were 10.0, 12.1, and 10.8 ng/ml in participants without arthritis, with rheumatoid arthritis, and with osteoarthritis, respectively. Those with higher levels of adiponectin were more likely to have osteoarthritis (but not rheumatoid arthritis). No association was found between arthritis types and leptin or resistin. This study demonstrates differences in measures of adiposity and adipokines in specific types of arthritis and highlights the need for more research targeting specific adipokines during arthritic disease progression.
Genome‐Wide Profiling Reveals That Herbal Medicine Jinfukang‐Induced Polyadenylation Alteration Is Involved in Anti‐Lung Cancer Activity
Authors: Kou Yao , Li Guoqing , Shao Jinhui , Liu Cong , Wu Jun , Lu Jun , Zhao Xiaodong , Tian Jing
Published: November 2017

Alternative polyadenylation (APA) plays an important role in regulation of genes expression and is involved in many biological processes. As eukaryotic cells receive a variety of external signals, genes produce diverse transcriptional isoforms and exhibit different translation efficiency. The traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) Jinfukang (JFK) has been effectively used for lung cancer treatment. In this study, we investigated whether JFK exerts its antitumor effect by modulating APA patterns in lung cancer cells. We performed a genome‐wide APA site profiling analysis in JFK treated lung cancer cells A549 with 3T‐seq approach that we reported previously. Comparing with those in untreated A549, in JFK treated A549 we observed APA‐mediated 3′ UTRs alterations in 310 genes including 77 genes with shortened 3′ UTRs. In particular, we identified TMEM123, a gene involved in oncotic cell death, which produced transcripts with shortened 3′ UTR and thus was upregulated upon JFK treatment. Taken together, our studies suggest that APA might be one of the antitumor mechanisms of JFK and provide a new insight for the understanding of TCM against cancer.
Macroscopic Traffic State Estimation: Understanding Traffic Sensing Data-Based Estimation Errors
Authors: van Erp Paul B. C. , Knoop Victor L. , Hoogendoorn Serge P.
Published: November 2017

Traffic state estimation is a crucial element in traffic management systems and in providing traffic information to road users. In this article, we evaluate traffic sensing data-based estimation error characteristics in macroscopic traffic state estimation. We consider two types of sensing data, that is, loop-detector data and probe speed data. These data are used to estimate the mean speed in a discrete space-time mesh. We assume that there are no errors in the sensing data. This allows us to study the errors resulting from the differences in characteristics between the sensing data and desired estimate together with the incomplete description of the relation between the two. The aim of the study is to evaluate the dependency of this estimation error on the traffic conditions and sensing data characteristics. For this purpose, we use microscopic traffic simulation, where we compare the estimates with the ground truth using Edie’s definitions. The study exposes a relation between the error distribution characteristics and traffic conditions. Furthermore, we find that it is important to account for the correlation between individual probe data-based estimation errors. Knowledge related to these estimation errors contributes to making better use of the available sensing data in traffic state estimation.
Solid-State Kinetic Investigations of Nonisothermal Reduction of Iron Species Supported on SBA-15
Authors: Genz N. S. , Baabe D. , Ressler T.
Published: November 2017

Iron oxide catalysts supported on nanostructured silica SBA-15 were synthesized with various iron loadings using two different precursors. Structural characterization of the as-prepared FexOy/SBA-15 samples was performed by nitrogen physisorption, X-ray diffraction, DR-UV-Vis spectroscopy, and Mössbauer spectroscopy. An increasing size of the resulting iron species correlated with an increasing iron loading. Significantly smaller iron species were obtained from (Fe(III), NH4)-citrate precursors compared to Fe(III)-nitrate precursors. Moreover, smaller iron species resulted in a smoother surface of the support material. Temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) of the FexOy/SBA-15 samples with H2 revealed better reducibility of the samples originating from Fe(III)-nitrate precursors. Varying the iron loading led to a change in reduction mechanism. TPR traces were analyzed by model-independent Kissinger method, Ozawa, Flynn, and Wall (OFW) method, and model-dependent Coats-Redfern method. JMAK kinetic analysis afforded a one-dimensional reduction process for the FexOy/SBA-15 samples. The Kissinger method yielded the lowest apparent activation energy for the lowest loaded citrate sample (Ea ≈ 39 kJ/mol). Conversely, the lowest loaded nitrate sample possessed the highest apparent activation energy (Ea ≈ 88 kJ/mol). For samples obtained from Fe(III)-nitrate precursors, Ea decreased with increasing iron loading. Apparent activation energies from model-independent analysis methods agreed well with those from model-dependent methods. Nucleation as rate-determining step in the reduction of the iron oxide species was consistent with the Mampel solid-state reaction model.
Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy Applied on Liquid Films: Effects of the Sample Thickness and the Laser Energy on the Signal Intensity and Stability
Authors: Lazic Violeta , Ciaffi Massimiliano
Published: November 2017

Droplets of organic liquids on aluminum substrate were probed by an Nd:YAG laser, both in a steady state and during rotation at speeds 18–150 rpm. Rotation transforms the droplet into film, which estimated thickness at high speeds was below 3 μm and 20 μm for diesel and peanut oil, respectively. Line intensities from the liquid (C I) and the support (Al I) material were tracked as a function of the film thickness and the laser energy. By film thinning, the line intensities from liquid sample were enhanced up to a factor 100x; simultaneously, the LIBS signal fluctuations were reduced 5–10 times with respect to the steady droplet. In certain experimental conditions, the line intensities from the support material become very weak with respect to the C I line, indicating an efficient screening of the substrate by highly excited plasma from the liquid layer. At a fixed rotation speed, there is a laser energy threshold, dependent on the liquid thickness, above which the LIBS signal becomes stable. Here, we discuss the relative processes and optimization of the experimental conditions for the LIBS measurements frome one laser shot to another.