bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reflexivity in Two Zhuang Dialects
Authors: Schadler Dagmar
Published: March 2017

This paper provides a comparison of two closely related dialects of Zhuang that have two very different anaphoric systems. One of the dialects, Mashan Zhuang, allows locally bound pronouns and additionally employs a complex anaphor, whilst the other dialect, Qinzhou Zhuang, has only a bare self which licenses reflexivity across the board. A more detailed analysis of the internal DP structure shows that the distribution and the possibility of being able to act as a reflexive licenser of the various reflexive forms can be explained by differences in the necessity for having a filled FP layer. A closer look at possessive phrases provides further evidence for assuming two different structures for pronouns in these two dialects. Contrary to appearances, then, also the pronoun in Mashan Zhuang provides the complexity an element needs to act as a reflexive‐licenser.
The Syntax of Event‐Internal and Event‐External Verbal Classifiers
Authors: Zhang Niina Ning
Published: March 2017

When a classifier occurs with a numeral and an event‐denoting expression, it is used as a unit to count events. The classifier is called a verbal classifier if the event‐denoting expression is verbal, although the classifier itself is not verbal. This paper argues that a numeral and a verbal classifier have a spec‐head relation, and the verbal expression is the complement. The proposal explains a number of syntactic generalizations of verbal classifiers in Mandarin Chinese. Like a frequentative adverb such astwice, a verbal classifier expression is either event‐internal or event‐external. The two types of classifiers have different possible positions in the language. The position contrasts are explained by different heights of the projection headed by a classifier. Theoretically, on the one hand, this research unifies the syntax of nominal and verbal numeral classifiers; and on the other hand, it explores the syntactic distinctions between event‐internal and event‐external verbal classifiers.
Identifying and Classifying Small and Medium Sized Towns in Europe
Authors: Russo Antonio Paolo , Serrano Giné David , Pérez Albert Maria Yolanda , Brandajs Fiammetta
Published: March 2017

This paper provides a first attempt at the construction of a unified, homogeneous inventory of different classes of urban settlements in the European space, building on the approach of international institutions such as OECD and the EU in relation to larger urban areas and extending it to the specific challenge presented by smaller settlements. Its objective is twofold. The first is to address the fundamental empirical problem that was central to the development of the ESPON 2013 project ‘Small and Medium sized Towns in their Functional Territorial Context’ (TOWN), that is the proper geographic identification of different classes of urban settlements. The second is to introduce one basic classification of urban settlements, and two more refined typologies of small and medium sized towns (SMST). These typologies are used to provide a first impression of territorial structures of urbanisation throughout Europe, further elaborated in functional terms in the TOWN project.
A national French noninterventional study to assess the long‐term safety and efficacy of reformulated nonacog alfa
Authors: Lambert Thierry , Rothschild Chantal , Volot Fabienne , Borel‐Derlon Annie , Trossaërt Marc , Claeyssens‐Donadel Ségolène , Attal Sepideh
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

Nonacog alfa, the recombinant Factor IX (F IX) used for the treatment of hemophilia B, was approved in Europe in 1998. A reformulated version was approved for European use in 2007.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

This postmarketing study, as recommended by the risk management plan, was conducted to confirm the safety of reformulated nonacog alfa in a usual care setting in France. This open‐label, noninterventional, prospective, longitudinal postmarketing study comprised 19 French hemophilia centers. Patients with hemophilia B receiving reformulated nonacog alfa for prophylaxis or on‐demand treatment were followed up on usual care schedule.

RESULTS

A total of 58 subjects were enrolled, of whom 29 (50%) were less than 18 years of age. Hemophilia was severe (baseline F IX activity < 1%) in 47 (81%) patients. All subjects except one were already treated with reformulated nonacog alfa before enrollment. One subject was receiving reformulated nonacog alfa as immune tolerance induction at time of enrollment. At enrollment, treatment regimen was mainly prophylactic in subjects less than 18 years and on‐demand in subjects 18 years or older. Median duration of follow‐up in the survey was 3.3 (2.3‐3.8) years. The median annualized bleeding rate was 3.9 (1.5‐5.2) for prophylaxis regimen and 12.2 (3.9‐22.1) for on‐demand regimen. One subject, a previously untreated patient, developed F IX inhibitors during follow‐up. No allergic reaction, no blood cell agglutination, no lack of efficacy or recovery, and no thrombotic events were reported.

CONCLUSION

Reformulated nonacog alfa was shown to be safe in a usual care setting.
Depression and cognitive deficits as long‐term consequences of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Falter Tanja , Schmitt Veronique , Herold Stephanie , Weyer Veronika , von Auer Charis , Wagner Stefanie , Hefner Gudrun , Beutel Manfred , Lackner Karl , Lämmle Bernhard , Scharrer Inge
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is an acute life‐threatening microangiopathy with a tendency of relapse characterized by consumptive thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, and spontaneous von Willebrand factor–induced platelet clumping leading to microthrombi. The brain is frequently affected by microthrombi leading to neurologic abnormalities of varying severity.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The aim of this observational cohort study was to investigate the prevalence of depression and cognitive deficits in 104 patients having survived acute TTP. TTP survivors were repeatedly assessed by means of different standardized questionnaires to evaluate depression (IDS‐SR) and mental performance (FLei). We received answers of 104 individual TTP patients and 55 of them participated in both surveys.

RESULTS

Seventy‐one of the 104 responding TTP patients (68%) suffered from depression and the severity of depression was similar in both surveys performed 1 year apart. Furthermore, TTP patients had considerably lower cognitive performance than controls. There was no correlation between prevalence of depression and cognitive deficits and the number and the severity of acute episodes. Impairment of mental performance correlated with the severity of depression (rs = 0.779).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of depression and cognitive deficits was significantly higher in TTP patients. Cognitive impairment seemed to be a consequence of depression, almost independently of number and severity of TTP episodes.
Diagnostic outcome of contrast videofluoroscopic swallowing studies in 216 dysphagic dogs
Authors: Pollard Rachel E. , Marks Stanley L. , Cheney Diane M. , Bonadio Cecily M.
Published: March 2017

Determining the anatomic and functional origin for dysphagia is critical for development of an appropriate therapeutic plan and determination of the prognosis. The purpose of this retrospective study was to report the quantitative and qualitative outcome of contrast videofluoroscopic swallowing studies in a large cohort of dysphagic dogs presenting to a tertiary veterinary care hospital. The videofluoroscopic swallowing studies were reviewed to generate values for pharyngeal constriction ratio, timing of swallowing events (maximum pharyngeal contraction, opening of upper esophageal sphincter, closing of upper esophageal sphincter, and reopening of epiglottis), type of esophageal peristalsis generated, and esophageal transit time. One or more anatomic locations for origin of dysphagia were assigned (pharyngeal, cricopharyngeal, esophageal (primary motility disorder), other esophageal (stricture, vascular ring anomaly, mass), lower esophageal sphincter/hiatus. Sixty‐one of 216 studies (28%) were deemed unremarkable. Twenty‐seven of 216 dogs (13%) had pharyngeal dysphagia, 17/216 dogs (8%) had cricopharyngeal dysphagia, 98/216 dogs (45%) had dysphagia secondary to esophageal dysmotility, 19/216 dogs (9%) had dysphagia secondary to focal esophageal disorders, and 97/216 dogs (45%) had dysphagia of lower esophageal sphincter/hiatus origin. Multiple abnormalities were present in 82/216 (38%) dogs. Elevated pharyngeal constriction ratio was associated with pharyngeal, cricopharyngeal, and esophageal motility disorders, delayed upper esophageal sphincter opening was associated with cricopharyngeal disorders, a lower percentage of primary esophageal peristaltic waves was associated with cricopharyngeal, pharyngeal, or primary esophageal motility disorders. In conclusion, videofluoroscopic swallowing studies was pivotal in the diagnosis of dysphagia with 155/216 (72%) dogs receiving a final diagnosis.
Development of an Active Curved Beam Model—Part II: Kinetics and Internal Activation
Authors: Murakami Hidenori
Published: March 2017

Utilizing the kinematics, presented in the Part I, an active large deformation beam model for slender, flexible, or soft robots is developed from the d'Alembert's principle of virtual work, which is derived for three-dimensional elastic solids from Hamilton's principle. This derivation is accomplished by refining the definition of the Cauchy stress tensor as a vector-valued 2-form to exploit advanced geometrical operations available for differential forms. From the three-dimensional principle of virtual work, both the beam principle of virtual work and beam equations of motion with consistent boundary conditions are derived, adopting the kinematic assumption of rigid cross sections of a deforming beam. In the derivation of the beam model, Élie Cartan's moving frame method is utilized. The resulting large deformation beam equations apply to both passive and active beams. The beam equations are validated with the previously reported results expressed in vector form. To transform passive beams to active beams, constitutive relations for internal actuation are presented in rate form. Then, the resulting three-dimensional beam models are reduced to an active planar beam model. To illustrate the deformation due to internal actuation, an active Timoshenko beam model is derived by linearizing the nonlinear planar equations. For an active, simply supported Timoshenko beam, the analytical solution is presented. Finally, a linear locomotion of a soft inchworm-inspired robot is simulated by implementing active C1 beam elements in a nonlinear finite element (FE) code.
Image-Based Movement Analysis of Bearing Cages of Cylindrical Hybrid Roller Bearings
Authors: Abele Eberhard , Holland Lars
Published: March 2017

Movement analyses of bearings focusing on cage motion behavior are often conducted by simulations, typically by investigating the cage whirl. Some experimental studies exist in which a metal cage or a modified one is analyzed with sensors. This paper presents an image-based approach for investigating the cage motion of an injection molded, window-type cage under operation condition. Besides analyses at constant rotational speed, the cage center movement behavior for different accelerations is investigated.
Electrophoretic Characterization of Venom Proteins of Montivipera xanthina (Gray, 1849) (Ophidia: Viperidae)
Authors: Arıkan Hüseyin , Alpagut Keskin Nurşen , Çiçek Kerim
Published: March 2017

In this study, with the aim of evaluating coagulant activities in the venom of M. xanthina, we analyzed venom proteins, digestion patterns of fibrinogen chains with venom and the effects of protease inhibitors on M. xanthina venom proteases using Tricine-sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Venom samples were obtained from four adult specimens of Montivipera xanthina collected in Gümüldür (Izmir, Turkey). SDS-PAGE analysis demonstrated that 17 protein bands in the range of 20–250 kDa were present. The specific digestion patterns of fibrinogen chains revealed that M. xanthina venom possesses fibrinogenolytic enzymes which could be included in coagulation processes during envenomation Fibrinogenolytic activity directed exclusively towards the Aa-chain with a time-dependent activity towards Bb-chains suggests the presence of both metalloproteinases and serine proteases in M. xanthine venom. In the present study, the occurrence and inhibition of fibrinogenolytic activity of M. xanthina venom were clearly observed. For further analysis, the isolation, identification, and characterization of individual venom components will provide insight into their function and biological roles.
The role of early and late reflections on spatial release from masking: Effects of age and hearing loss
Authors: Srinivasan Nirmal Kumar , Stansell Meghan , Gallun Frederick J.
Published: March 2017

Early reflections have been linked to improved speech intelligibility, while later-arriving reverberant sound has been shown to limit speech understanding. Here, these effects were examined by artificially removing either early reflections or late reflections. Removing late reflections improved performance more for colocated than for spatially separated maskers. Results of a multiple regression analysis suggest that pure-tone average (PTA) is a significant predictor of spatial release from masking (SRM) in all acoustic conditions. Controlling for the effects of PTA, age is a significant predictor of SRM only when early reflections are absent.
Decrement in Professional Cyclists’ Performance After a Grand Tour
Authors: Rodríguez-Marroyo Jose A. , Villa José G. , Pernía Raúl , Foster Carl
Published: March 2017

Purpose: To analyze professional cyclists’ performance declines after, and the exercise demands during, a Grand Tour. Methods: Seven professional cyclists performed 2 incremental exercise tests, 1 wk before and the day after the Vuelta España. During the race the exercise demands were analyzed on the basis of heart rate (HR). Three intensity zones were established according to reference HR values corresponding to the ventilatory- (VT) and respiratory-compensation (RCT) thresholds determined during the prerace test. In addition, exercise demands for the last weeks of the Vuelta were recalculated using the reference HR determined during the postrace test for the 3rd week and averaging the change observed in the VT and RCT per stage for the 2nd week. The reference HR for the beginning of the 2nd week was estimated. Results: A significant (P-value range, .044–.000) decrement in oxygen uptake, power output, and HR at maximal exercise, VT, and RCT was found after the race. Based on the prerace test, the mean time spent daily above the RCT was 13.8 ± 10.2 min. This time decreased −1.2 min·day−1 across the race. When the exercise intensity was corrected according to the postrace test, the time above RCT (34.1 ± 9.9 min) increased 1.0 min·day−1. Conclusion: These data indicate that completing a Grand Tour may result in a significant decrement in maximal and submaximal endurance performance capacity. This may modify reference values used to analyze exercise demands. As a consequence, the high-intensity exercise performed by cyclists may be underestimated.
Method-Induced Differences of Energy Contributions in Women’s Kayaking
Authors: Li Yongming , Niessen Margot , Chen Xiaoping , Hartmann Ulrich
Published: March 2017

Context: Different relative aerobic energy contribution (WAER%) has been reported for the 2 women’s Olympic kayaking disciplines (ie, 200 and 500 m). Purpose: To investigate whether the adopted method of energy calculation influences the value of WAER% during kayaking time trials. Methods: Eleven adolescent female kayakers (age 14 ± 1 y, height 172 ± 4 cm, body mass 65.4 ± 4.2 kg, VO2peak 42.6 ± 4.9 mL·min−1·kg−1, training experience 1.5 ± 0.3 y) volunteered to participate in 1 incremental exercise test and 2 time trials (40 and 120 s) on the kayak ergometer. A portable spirometric system was used to measure gas metabolism. Capillary blood was taken from the ear lobe during and after the tests and analyzed for lactate afterward. The method of modified maximal accumulated oxygen deficit (m-MAOD) and the method based on the fast component of oxygen-uptake off-kinetics (PCr-La-O2) were used to calculate the energy contributions. Results: The anaerobic energy portions from m-MAOD were lower than those from PCr-La-O2 in the 40-s (41.9 ± 8.8 vs 52.8 ± 4.0 kJ, P > .05) and 120-s (64.1 ± 27.9 vs 68.2 ± 10.0 kJ, P > .05) time trials, which induced differences of WAER% between m-MAOD and PCr-La-O2 (36.0% vs 30.0% in 40 s, P > .05; 60.9% vs 57.5% in 120 s, P > .05). Conclusions: The reported different WAER% in women’s Olympic kayaking could be partly attributed to the adopted method of energy calculation (ie, m-MAOD vs PCr-La-O2). A fixed method of energy calculation is recommended during the longitudinal assessment on the relative energy contribution in women’s Olympic kayaking.
Does Foot Anthropometry Predict Metabolic Cost During Running?
Authors: van Werkhoven Herman , Piazza Stephen J.
Published: March 2017

Several recent investigations have linked running economy to heel length, with shorter heels being associated with less metabolic energy consumption. It has been hypothesized that shorter heels require larger plantar flexor muscle forces, thus increasing tendon energy storage and reducing metabolic cost. The goal of this study was to investigate this possible mechanism for metabolic cost reduction. Fifteen male subjects ran at 16 km⋅h−1 on a treadmill and subsequently on a force-plate instrumented runway. Measurements of oxygen consumption, kinematics, and ground reaction forces were collected. Correlational analyses were performed between oxygen consumption and anthropometric and kinetic variables associated with the ankle and foot. Correlations were also computed between kinetic variables (peak joint moment and peak tendon force) and heel length. Estimated peak Achilles tendon force normalized to body weight was found to be strongly correlated with heel length normalized to body height (r = −.751, p = .003). Neither heel length nor any other measured or calculated variable were correlated with oxygen consumption, however. Subjects with shorter heels experienced larger Achilles tendon forces, but these forces were not associated with reduced metabolic cost. No other anthropometric and kinetic variables considered explained the variance in metabolic cost across individuals.
Exploring the Facilitators and Barriers to Physical Activity in Older People With Sight Loss
Authors: Burton Amy E. , Clancy Louise , Cowap Lisa
Published: March 2017

This study aimed to explore facilitators and barriers to physical activity in older people with sight loss. Focus groups were conducted with 13 community-dwelling older adults with sight loss ranging from poor to completely blind. Transcripts were analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis. Facilitators and barriers are experienced in three ways: psychologically; through opportunity and access; and at a societal and policy level. Campaigns are needed to challenge unhelpful age-related stereotypes at both psychological and societal levels. Additionally, interventions grounded in evidence and theory should be trialled and evaluated for increasing physical activity in this population.
Investigating the Mechanisms Underlying the Effects of an Incidental Choice on Motor Learning
Authors: Grand Kirk F. , Daou Marcos , Lohse Keith R. , Miller Matthew W.
Published: March 2017

The present study investigated whether motivation and augmented feedback processing explain the effect of an incidental choice on motor learning, and examined whether motivation and feedback processing generally predict learning. Accordingly, participants were assigned to one of two groups, choice or yoked, then asked to practice a nondominant arm beanbag toss. The choice group was allowed to choose the color of the beanbag with which they made the toss, whereas the yoked group was not. Motor learning was determined by delayed-posttest accuracy and precision. Motivation and augmented feedback processing were indexed via the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory and electroencephalography, respectively. We predicted the choice group would exhibit greater motor learning, motivation, and augmented feedback processing, and that the latter two variables would predict learning. Results showed that an incidental choice failed to enhance motor learning, motivation, or augmented feedback processing. In addition, neither motivation nor augmented feedback processing predicted motor learning. However, motivation and augmented feedback processing were correlated, with both factors predicting changes in practice performance. Thus, results suggest the effect of incidental choices on motor learning may be tenuous, and indicate motivation and augmented feedback processing may be more closely linked to changes in practice performance than motor learning.
The Effects of Low-Intensity Therapeutic Ultrasound on Measurable Outcomes: A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Daniels Sarah , Santiago Gabriela , Cuchna Jennifer , Van Lunen Bonnie
Published: March 2017

Clinical Scenario: Therapeutic ultrasound (US) is a popular modality among health care professionals and is used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. A new technology has been established to allow for the miniaturization of the US unit. Patients receive treatment with the device secured to them, eliminating the portability constraint of traditional US units. Early studies suggest that this portable unit can deliver low-intensity acoustic energy achieving the same temperature increase and pain relief that come from traditional US units, in a more versatile and patient-friendly manner. Clinical Question: What effects does low-intensity therapeutic ultrasound (LITUS) have on measurable outcomes? Summary of Key Findings: The literature was searched for level 4 evidence or higher that investigated the effectiveness of LITUS. The literature search produced 3 possible studies related to the clinical question: 2 randomized controlled trials and 1 case series met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Of the included studies, 1 study investigated the effects of LITUS on tissue temperature, 2 studies investigated the effects of LITUS on pain, and 1 study investigated LITUS effects on function. Clinical Bottom Line: The evidence supports the use of the LITUS unit to increase tissue temperature, decrease pain, and increase function. Therefore, practitioners may consider the use of the LITUS unit in patient populations over the use of the traditional high-intensity US treatment. Strength of Recommendation: In accordance with the 2009 Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine levels of evidence, there is grade I (insufficient) evidence to support the positive effects of the LITUS device for improving the following clinical outcomes: tissue temperature, decreasing pain, and increasing function. The inconsistency in the measured outcomes across the 3 studies only allows for minimal support of the LITUS device, warranting further research. Although clinical outcomes were different in each study, consistent evidence ranging from 4 to 1B levels were found in the 3 included studies.
Physiological Responses to Treadmill Running With Body Weight Support in Hypoxia Compared With Normoxia
Authors: Lee Ben J. , Thake Charles Douglas
Published: March 2017

Context:Anecdotal reports suggest elite sports clubs combine lower-body positive-pressure rehabilitation with a hypoxic stimulus to maintain or increase physiological and metabolic strain, which are reduced during lower-body positive pressure. However, the effects of hypoxia on cardiovascular and metabolic response during lower-body positive-pressure rehabilitation are unknown.Objective:Evaluate the use of normobaric hypoxia as a means to increase physiological strain during body-weight-supported (BWS) running.Design:Crossover study.Setting:Controlled laboratory.Participants:Seven familiarized males (mean (SD): age, 20 (1) y; height, 1.77 (0.05) m; mass, 69.4 (5.1) kg; hemoglobin, 15.2 (0.8) g·dL−1) completed a normoxic and hypoxic (fraction of inspired oxygen [O2] = 0.14) trial, during which they ran at 8 km·h−1on an AlterG™ treadmill with 0%, 30%, and 60% BWS in a randomized order for 10 minutes interspersed with 5 minutes of recovery.Main Outcome Measures:Arterial O2saturation, heart rate, O2delivery, and measurements of metabolic strain via indirect calorimetry.Results:Hypoxic exercise reduced hemoglobin O2saturation and elevated heart rate at each level of BWS compared with normoxia. However, the reduction in hemoglobin O2saturation was attenuated at 60% BWS compared with 0% and 30%, and consequently, O2delivery was better maintained at 60% BWS.Conclusion:Hypoxia is a practically useful means of increasing physiological strain during BWS rehabilitation. In light of the maintenance of hemoglobin O2saturation and O2delivery at increasing levels of BWS, fixed hemoglobin saturations rather than a fixed altitude are recommended to maintain an aerobic stimulus.
Draft Genome Sequences of Three Nontypeable Strains of Haemophilus influenzae, C188, R535, and 1200, Isolated from Different Types of Disease
Authors: Kappler Ulrike , Dhouib Rabeb , Nair Remya Purushothaman , McEwan Alastair G.
Published: March 2017

Nontypeable
Haemophilus influenzae
is a persistent human respiratory pathogen known to be involved in a range of acute and chronic respiratory diseases. Here, we report the genome sequences of three
H. influenzae
strains isolated from sputum, otitis media, and blood. Comparative analyses revealed significant differences in the gene contents including the presence of genes mediating antibiotic resistance.
First Complete Genome Sequence of
Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus
Isolated from Australia
Authors: Kehoe Monica A. , Jones Roger A. C. , Coutts Brenda A.
Published: March 2017

We present here the first complete genome sequence of the tobamovirus
Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus
(CGMMV) from Australia, obtained from an infected cucumber plant. Compared with other CGMMV genomes, its closest nucleotide identities were 99.6% to KP772568, 99.3% to KF155229, and 99.1% to DQ767631 from Canada, Israel, and India, respectively.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Plasmid-Bearing Lactobacillus fermentum Strain SNUV175, a Probiotic for Women’s Health Isolated from the Vagina of a Healthy South Korean Woman
Authors: Lee Sunghee , You Hyun Ju , Kwon Bomi , Ko GwangPyo
Published: March 2017

Lactobacillus fermentum
SNUV175 has been identified as a probiotic strain that inhibits pathogenic microorganisms related to women’s health. We present the complete genomic sequence of the strain
L. fermentum
SNUV175 isolated from the vagina of a South Korean woman. This genomic information may provide insight into the functional activity of this strain.
Draft Genome Sequence of Providencia stuartii PS71, a Multidrug-Resistant Strain Associated with Nosocomial Infections in Greece
Authors: Liakopoulos A. , Oikonomou O. , Wareham D. W.
Published: March 2017

Providencia stuartii
is frequently associated with nosocomial outbreaks and displays intrinsic resistance to many commonly used antimicrobials. We report here the draft genome sequence of a
P. stuartii
strain carrying acquired resistance genes conferring panresistance to cephalosporins (
bla
SHV-5
and
bla
VEB-1
), carbapenems (
bla
VIM-1
), and aminoglycosides (
rmtB
) involved in an outbreak in Greek hospitals.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Mycoparasitic Oomycete
Pythium periplocum
Strain CBS 532.74
Authors: Kushwaha Sandeep K. , Vetukuri Ramesh R. , Grenville-Briggs Laura J.
Published: March 2017

The oomycete
Pythium periplocum
is an aggressive mycoparasite of a number of plant pathogenic fungi and oomycetes and therefore has potential as a biological control agent. Here, we report the first draft genome sequence of
P. periplocum
, which comprises 35.89 Mb. It contains 1,043 scaffolds and 14,399 predicted protein-coding genes.
Complete Genome Sequences of Pseudomonas fluorescens Bacteriophages Isolated from Freshwater Samples in Omaha, Nebraska
Authors: Lu Guoqing , Luhr Jamie , Stoecklein Andrew , Warner Paige , Tapprich William
Published: March 2017

The complete genome sequences of four
Pseudomonas fluorescens
bacteriophages, UNO-SLW1 to UNO-SLW4, isolated from freshwater samples, are 39,092 to 39,215 bp long. The genomes are highly similar (identity, >0.995) but dissimilar from that of
Pseudomonas
phage Pf-10 (the closest relative, 0.685 to 0.686 identity), with 48 to 49 protein-coding genes and 66 regulatory sites predicted.
Draft Genome Sequence of Chromobacterium subtsugae MWU12-2387 Isolated from a Wild Cranberry Bog in Truro, Massachusetts
Authors: Vöing Kristin , Harrison Alisha , Soby Scott D.
Published: March 2017

Chromobacterium subtsugae
MWU12-2387 was isolated from the rhizosphere of cranberry plants. While it is unknown what environmental role these bacteria play in bog soils, they hold potential as biological control agents against nematodes and insect pests. Potential virulence genes were identified, including the violacein synthesis pathway, siderophores, and several chitinases.
Acid-Fast Positive and Acid-Fast NegativeMycobacterium tuberculosis: The Koch Paradox
Authors: Vilchèze Catherine , Kremer Laurent
Published: March 2017

Acid-fast (AF) staining, also known as Ziehl-Neelsen stain microscopic detection, developed over a century ago, is even today the most widely used diagnostic method for tuberculosis. Herein we present a short historical review of the evolution of AF staining methods and discuss Koch’s paradox, in which non-AF tubercle bacilli can be detected in tuberculosis patients or in experimentally infected animals. The conversion ofMycobacterium tuberculosisfrom an actively growing, AF-positive form to a nonreplicating, AF-negative form during the course of infection is now well documented. The mechanisms of loss of acid-fastness are not fully understood but involve important metabolic processes, such as the accumulation of triacylglycerol-containing intracellular inclusions and changes in the composition and spatial architecture of the cell wall. Although the precise component(s) responsible for the AF staining method remains largely unknown, analysis of a series of genetically definedM. tuberculosismutants, which are attenuated in mice, pointed to the primary role of mycolic acids and other cell wall-associated (glyco)lipids as molecular markers responsible for the AF property of mycobacteria. Further studies are now required to better describe the cell wall reorganization that occurs during dormancy and to develop new staining procedures that are not affected by such cell wall alterations and that are capable of detecting AF-negative cells.
Time to publication for publicly funded clinical trials in Australia: an observational study
Authors: Strand Linn Beate , Clarke Philip , Graves Nicholas , Barnett Adrian G
Published: March 2017

Objective

To examine the length of time between receiving funding and publishing the protocol and main paper for randomised controlled trials.

Design

An observational study using survival analysis.

Setting

Publicly funded health and medical research in Australia.

Participants

Randomised controlled trials funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia between 2008 and 2010.

Main outcome measures

Time from funding to the protocol paper and main results paper. Multiple variable survival models examining whether study characteristics predicted publication times.

Results

We found 77 studies with a total funding of $A59 million. The median time to publication of the protocol paper was 6.4 years after funding (95% CI 4.1 to 8.1). The proportion with a published protocol paper 8 years after funding was 0.61 (95% CI 0.48 to 0.74). The median time to publication of the main results paper was 7.1 years after funding (95% CI 6.3 to 7.6). The proportion with a published main results paper 8 years after funding was 0.72 (95% CI 0.56 to 0.87). The HRs for how study characteristics might influence timing were generally close to one with narrow CIs, the notable exception was that a longer study length lengthened the time to the main paper (HR=0.62 per extra study year, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.89).

Conclusions

Despite the widespread registration of clinical trials, there remain serious concerns of trial results not being published or being published with a long delay. We have found that these same concerns apply to protocol papers, which should be publishable soon after funding. Funding agencies could set a target of publishing the protocol paper within 18 months of funding.
Disparities between research attention and burden in liver diseases: implications on uneven advances in pharmacological therapies in Europe and the USA
Authors: Ndugga Nambi , Lightbourne Teisha G , Javaherian Kavon , Cabezas Joaquin , Verma Neha , Barritt A Sidney , Bataller Ramon
Published: March 2017

Objectives

Effective oral therapies for hepatitis B and C have recently been developed, while there are no approved pharmacological therapies for alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases (ALD and NAFLD). We hypothesise that fewer advances in fatty liver diseases could be related to disparities in research attention.

Methods

We developed the Attention-to-Burden Index (ABI) that compares the research activities during 2010–2014, and an estimate of disease burden of these 4 major liver diseases. The resulting ratio reflects either overattention (positive value) or inadequate attention (negative value) compared with disease burden. The mean research attention and disease burden were calculated from 5 and 6 different parameters, respectively. The efficacy rate of current pharmacological therapies was assessed from published clinical trials.

Findings

The mean research attention for hepatitis B and C was 31% and 47%, respectively, while NAFLD and ALD received 17% and 5%. The overall burden was 5% and 28% for hepatitis B and C, and 17% and 50% for NAFLD and ALD. The calculated ABI for hepatitis B and C revealed a +6.7-fold and +1.7-fold overattention, respectively. NAFLD received an appropriate attention compared with its burden, while ALD received marked inadequate attention of −9.7-fold. The efficacy rate of current pharmacological agents was 72% for hepatitis B, 89% for hepatitis C, 25% for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and 13% for alcoholic hepatitis. Importantly, we found a positive correlation between the mean attention and the efficacy rate of current therapies in these 4 major liver diseases.

Interpretation

There are important disparities between research attention and disease burden among the major liver diseases. While viral hepatitis has received considerable attention, there is a marked inadequate attention to ALD. There is a critical need to increase awareness of ALD in the liver research community.
Is socioeconomic position associated with risk of attempted suicide in rural Sri Lanka? A cross-sectional study of 165 000 individuals
Authors: Knipe D W , Gunnell D , Pieris R , Priyadarshana C , Weerasinghe M , Pearson M , Jayamanne S , Dawson A H , Mohamed F , Gawarammana I , Hawton K , Konradsen F , Eddleston M , Metcalfe C
Published: March 2017

Background

Lower socioeconomic position (SEP) is associated with an increased risk of suicidal behaviour in high-income countries, but this association is unclear in low-income and middle-income countries.

Methods

We investigated the association of SEP with attempted suicide in a cross-sectional survey of 165 233 Sri Lankans. SEP data were collected at the household (assets, social standing (highest occupation of a household member), foreign employment and young (≤40 years) female-headed households) and individual level (education and occupation). Respondent-reported data on suicide attempts in the past year were recorded. Random-effects logistic regression models, accounting for clustering, were used to investigate the association of SEP with attempted suicide.

Results

Households reported 398 attempted suicides in the preceding year (239 per 100 000). Fewer assets (OR 3.2, 95% CI 2.4 to 4.4) and having a daily wage labourer (ie, insecure/low-income job; OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.6 to 3.2) as the highest occupation increased the risk of an attempted suicide within households. At an individual level, daily wage labourers were at an increased risk of attempted suicide compared with farmers. The strongest associations were with low levels of education (OR 4.6, 95% CI 2.5 to 8.4), with a stronger association in men than women.

Conclusions

We found that indicators of lower SEP are associated with increased risk of attempted suicide in rural Sri Lanka. Longitudinal studies with objective measures of suicide attempts are needed to confirm this association.

Trial registration number

NCT01146496; Pre-results.
Sport and scholastic factors in relation to smoking and smoking initiation in older adolescents: a prospective cohort study in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Sekulic Damir , Sisic Nedim , Terzic Admir , Jasarevic Indira , Ostojic Ljerka , Pojskic Haris , Zenic Natasa
Published: March 2017

Objective

Sport and scholastic factors are known to be associated with cigarette smoking in adolescence, but little is known about the causality of this association. The aim of this study was to prospectively explore the relationships of different sport and scholastic factors with smoking prevalence initiation in older adolescents from Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Methods

In this 2-year prospective cohort study, there were 872 adolescent participants (16 years at baseline; 46% females). The study consisted of baseline tests at the beginning of the third year (September 2013) and follow-up at the end of the fourth year of high school (late May to early June 2015). The independent variables were scholastic and sport-related factors. The dependent variables were (1) smoking at baseline, (2) smoking at follow-up and (3) smoking initiation over the course of the study. Logistic regressions controlling for age, gender and socioeconomic status were applied to define the relationships between independent and dependent variables.

Results

School absence at the baseline study was a significant predictor of smoking initiation during the course of the study (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.1 to 1.8). Those who reported quitting sports at baseline showed an increased risk of smoking at the end of the study (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.1 to 2.0) and of smoking initiation (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.3 to 2.0). Adolescents who reported lower competitive achievements in sport were at a higher risk of (1) smoking at baseline (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.1 to 2.1), (2) smoking at follow-up (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.1 to 2.1) and (3) smoking initiation (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.1 to 2.6).

Conclusions

In developing accurate antismoking public health policies for older adolescents, the most vulnerable groups should be targeted. The results showed that most participants initiated smoking before 16 years of age. Therefore, further investigations should evaluate the predictors of smoking in younger ages.
Remote sensing evaluation of High Arctic wetland depletion following permafrost disturbance by thermo-erosion gullying processes
Authors: Perreault Naïm , Lévesque Esther , Fortier Daniel , Gratton Denis , Lamarque Laurent J.
Published: March 2017

Northern wetlands and their productive tundra vegetation are of prime importance for Arctic wildlife by providing high-quality forage and breeding habitats. However, many wetlands are becoming drier as a function of climate-induced permafrost degradation. This phenomenon is notably the case in cold, ice-rich permafrost regions such as Bylot Island, Nunavut, where degradation of ice wedges and thermo-erosion gullying have already occurred throughout the polygon-patterned landscape resulting in a progressive shift from wet to mesic tundra vegetation within a decade. This study reports on the application of the normalized difference vegetation index to determine the extent of permafrost ecosystem disturbance on wetlands adjacent to thermo-erosion gullies. The analysis of a GeoEye-1 image of the Qarlikturvik valley, yielding a classification with five classes and 62% accuracy, resulted in directly identifying affected areas when compared to undisturbed baseline of wet and mesic plant communities. The total wetland area lost by drainage around the three studied gullies approximated to 95 430 m2, which already represents 0.5% of the total wetland area of the valley. This is worrisome considering that 36 gullies have been documented in a single valley since 1999 and that permafrost degradation by thermal erosion gullying is significantly altering landscape morphology, modifying wetland hydrology, and generating new fluxes of nutrients, sediments, and carbon in the watershed. This study demonstrates that remote sensing provides an effective means for monitoring spatially and temporally the impact of permafrost disturbance on Arctic wetland stability.
Variational formulation incorporating spatial capacity changes to reconstruct trajectory for heterogeneous traffic conditions
Authors: Hadiuzzaman M. , Haque Nazmul , Musabbir Sarder Rafee , Islam Md. Atiqul , Hossain Sanjana , Muntakim Abu Hena
Published: March 2017

This study deals with the reconstruction of vehicle trajectories incorporating a data fusion framework that combines video and probe sensor data in heterogeneous traffic conditions. The framework is based on the application of variational formulation (VF) of kinematic waves for multiple lane conditions. The VF requires cumulative count and reference trajectory as boundary conditions. The VF also requires generation of lopsided network using fundamental diagram (FD) parameters. In this regard, cumulative count and FD parameters are obtained from the video sensor, while reference vehicle trajectory is obtained from the probe sensor. The analysis shows that the framework can provide an accuracy of 83% in trajectory estimation from the nearest reference trajectory. However, the accuracy decreases as the reference trajectory gets farther away from the estimated one. Additionally, an extension of the VF to accommodate roadway side friction is presented. The FD as well as lopsided network reform when the roadway capacity varies due to side friction. Consequently, the vehicle trajectory bends to accommodate the capacity fluctuation.
Mechanical site preparation and nurse plant facilitation for the restoration of subarctic forest ecosystems
Authors: Thiffault Nelson , Hébert François
Published: March 2017

Sustainable forest management implies successful regeneration following disturbances. Tree regeneration in subarctic ecosystems can, however, be constrained by limitations to seedling establishment related to cold soils, slow decomposition rates, and competition by ericaceous species. We established a field trial at the northern limit of commercial forests in Québec, Canada, to evaluate to what extent mechanical site preparation (MSP) and planting of a nurse N2-fixing species could promote conifer establishment on a site burned in 2007. The experiment comprised four treatments applied in 2010: standard MSP (disc trenching), standard MSP plus planting of Alnus crispa, intensive MSP, with larger furrows than standard MSP, and a control. Main plots were divided and planted in 2011 with Picea mariana (Mill.) Britton, Stearns & Poggenb. or Pinus banksiana Lamb. We monitored seedling survival, growth, nutrition, and microsite over a 3-year period. Results revealed interactions between treatments and planted species. Mechanical site preparation resulted in higher conifer growth relative to the control conditions, and planting Alnus resulted in growth gains similar to those obtained from intensive MSP. We measured competitive interactions between Alnus and the conifers that might eventually cancel out the initial benefits derived from facilitation by planting the nurse species. Longer term monitoring of interspecific interactions is needed to unravel the mechanisms responsible for the facilitative effect and identify the best management practices.
Discreteness of time in the evolution of the universe
Authors: Faizal Mir , Ali Ahmed Farag , Das Saurya
Published: March 2017

In this paper, we will first derive the Wheeler–DeWitt equation for the generalized geometry which occurs in M-theory. Then we will observe that M2-branes act as probes for this generalized geometry, and as M2-branes have an extended structure, their extended structure will limits the resolution to which this generalized geometry can be defined. We will demonstrate that this will deform the Wheeler–DeWitt equation for the generalized geometry. We analyze such a deformed Wheeler–DeWitt equation in the minisuperspace approximation, and observe that this deformation can be used as a solution to the problem of time. This is because this deformation gives rise to time crystals in our universe due to the spontaneous breaking of time reparametrization invariance.
Calculation of the tilt angle and susceptibility for the α–β transition in quartz using a mean field model
Authors: Yurtseven H. , Ipekoğlu U. , Ateş S.
Published: March 2017

Tilt angle (order parameter) and the susceptibility are calculated as a function of temperature for the [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] transition in quartz using a Landau phenomenological model. The tilt angle as obtained from the model is fitted to the experimental data from the literature and the temperature dependence of the tilt angle susceptibility is predicted close to the [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] transition in quartz. Our results show that the mean field model explains the observed behavior of the [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] phase transition in quartz adequately and it can be applied to some related materials.
Digital Realization of Retuning Fractional-Order Controllers for an Existing Closed-Loop Control System
Authors: Tepljakov Aleksei , Petlenkov Eduard , Gonzalez Emmanuel , Belikov Juri
Published: March 2017

In the present paper, the problem of digital implementation of retuning fractional-order (FO) controllers for an unstable plant — a real-life laboratory model of a Magnetic Levitation System (MLS) — is investigated. Retuning control is applied to an existing closed-loop PID control system through the use of a hardware FO controller prototype. An implementation method for the retuning controller is proposed. Three types of hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) experiments are considered. First, the plant is simulated using a suitable dynamic model. Second, the real-life laboratory model of the MLS is controlled. In the third type of experiment, a MATLAB implementation of the retuning controller is evaluated as a benchmark. Three controllers obtained in an earlier work are tested with this setup. Experimental results are compared and discussed.
Superspace and global stability in general relativity
Authors: Gurzadyan A. V. , Kocharyan A. A.
Published: March 2017

A framework is developed enabling the global analysis of the stability of cosmological models using the local geometric characteristics of the infinite-dimensional superspace, i.e. using the generalized Jacobi equation reformulated for pseudo-Riemannian manifolds. We give a direct formalism for dynamical analysis in the superspace, the requisite equation pertinent for stability analysis of the universe by means of generalized covariant and Fermi derivative is derived. Then, the relevant definitions and formulae are retrieved for cosmological models with a scalar field.
New Mathematical Strategy Using Branch and Bound Method
Authors: Tarray Tanveer Ahmad , Bhat Muzafar Rasool
Published: March 2017

In this paper, the problem of optimal allocation in stratified random sampling is used in the presence of nonresponse. The problem is formulated as a nonlinear programming problem (NLPP) and is solved using Branch and Bound method. Also the results are formulated through LINGO.