bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and characterization of bio-based alkyl terminal hyperbranched polyglycerols: a detailed study of their plasticization effect and migration resistance
Authors: Lee Kyu Won , Chung Jae Woo , Kwak Seung-Yeop
Published: November 2015

We developed a plasticizer composed of alkyl terminal hyperbranched polyglycerol (alkyl-HPG) for the production of non-toxic, phthalate-free flexible poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC).
Morphological tuning of Eu2O2S nanoparticles, manifestation of peroxidase-like activity and glucose assay use
Authors: Ghosh Abhisek Brata , Saha Namrata , Sarkar Arpita , Dutta Amit Kumar , Biswas Papu , Nag Kamalaksha , Adhikary Bibhutosh
Published: November 2015

We present a single source precursor driven synthesis of Eu2O2S with variable shapes, which effectively mimic peroxidase activity, and were successfully employed to selectively detect and determine glucose.
Detection of early primary colorectal cancer with upconversion luminescent NP-based molecular probes
Authors: Liu Chunyan , Qi Yifei , Qiao Ruirui , Hou Yi , Chan Kaying , Li Ziqian , Huang Jiayi , Jing Lihong , Du Jun , Gao Mingyuan
Published: November 2015

A primary mice colorectal tumor model was established and carefully studied for achieving sensitive imaging with specific upconversion nanoprobes.
A core–shell structure of polyaniline coated protonic titanate nanobelt composites for both Cr(vi) and humic acid removal
Authors: Wen Tao , Fan Qiaohui , Tan Xiaoli , Chen Yuantao , Chen Changlun , Xu Anwu , Wang Xiangke
Published: November 2015

The current methods for chromium and natural organic matter decontamination from wastewater present limitations, such as high cost, poor reproducibility, and detrimental environmental effects as well as by secondary waste.
Triphenylphosphine promoted regio and stereoselective α-halogenation of ynamides
Authors: Prabagar B. , Nayak Sanatan , Mallick Rajendra K. , Prasad Rangu , Sahoo Akhila K.
Published: November 2015

Metal free α-halogenation of ynamides at room temperature.
Highly selective fluorescence detection of Pd2+/4+ species based on a catalyzed aromatic Claisen rearrangement
Authors: Li Xuejing , Huang Huanhuan , Zhu Yuqing , Zhao Hong , Wang Zhifei
Published: November 2015

A highly selective chemodosimeter based on 1,8-naphthalimide for Pd2+/4+ species via a Claisen rearrangement was developed with a detection limit of 1.4 μM.
Effective parameters on selective catalytic hydrodeoxygenation of phenolic compounds of pyrolysis bio-oil to high-value hydrocarbons
Authors: Shafaghat Hoda , Rezaei Pouya Sirous , Ashri Wan Daud Wan Mohd
Published: November 2015

Selective hydrodeoxygenation of phenolic compounds present in pyrolysis bio-oil (phenol, cresol, guaiacol and anisole) to high-value hydrocarbons is a great function of catalyst properties and operating conditions.
Synthesis and properties of novel poly(ethylene succinate-co-decamethylene succinate) copolymers
Authors: Li Xiaojing , Qiu Zhaobin
Published: November 2015

The tensile properties of poly(ethylene succinate-co-decamethylene succinate) copolymers may be well regulated by the decamethylene succinate contents.
The smallest quaternary ammonium salts with ether groups for high-performance electrochemical double layer capacitors
Authors: Han Taihee , Park Min-Sik , Kim Jeonghun , Kim Jung Ho , Kim Ketack
Published: November 2015

The smallest quaternary ammonium salts (QASs) with ether groups on tails and tetrafluoroborate (BF4) as an anion exhibit high performance in electrochemical double layer capacitors (EDLCs).
Controlling the hydrogenolysis of silica-supported tungsten pentamethyl leads to a class of highly electron deficient partially alkylated metal hydrides
Authors: Maity Niladri , Barman Samir , Callens Emmanuel , Samantaray Manoja K. , Abou-Hamad Edy , Minenkov Yury , D'Elia Valerio , Hoffman Adam S. , Widdifield Cory M. , Cavallo Luigi , Gates Bruce C. , Basset Jean-Marie
Published: November 2015

Accessing highly electron deficient partially alkylated tungsten hydrides on silica via controlled hydrogenolysis of surface organometallic complex (Si–O–)W(Me)5.
Phase behavior of polyhedral nanoparticles in parallel plate confinement
Authors: Khadilkar Mihir R. , Escobedo Fernando A.
Published: November 2015

Monte Carlo simulations are used to investigate the phase behavior of hard cubes, truncated cubes, cuboctahedra and truncated octahedra when confined between two parallel hard walls.
Mechanoresponsive liquid crystals exhibiting reversible luminescent color changes at ambient temperature
Authors: Mitani Masato , Ogata Shuhei , Yamane Shogo , Yoshio Masafumi , Hasegawa Miki , Kato Takashi
Published: November 2015

Oligothiophene-based liquid crystals having a wide luminescent color variation exhibit reversible luminescent color changes induced by mechanical shearing and subsequent aging at ambient temperature.
Rapid identification of 3D object features using limited number of X‐ray projections
Authors: Li B. , Nutter B. , Boehme J. , McFadden M. , Mitra S.
Published: November 2015

A robust stereoscopic method is presented for rapid identification of hidden 3D objects by extracting edge and other features from computed depth planes using only a small number of X‐ray projections acquired with a low‐cost portable X‐ray imager. The portable X‐ray imager acquires X‐ray projections with a single fixed sensor from different viewing angles by rotating an X‐ray source attached to the end of a pivot arm. Knowing the geometry of the X‐ray imaging system, a series of depth planes are computed to extract the significant features of the hidden objects for quick identification. The proposed hidden object identification algorithm can be easily parallelised and embedded in portable devices for real‐time applications.
Model for maximum crossbar size based on input driver impedance
Authors: Yakopcic C. , Taha T.M.
Published: November 2015

Memristor crossbars are capable of implementing learning algorithms in a much more energy and area efficient manner compared with traditional systems. However, no results have been published that describe how large a neuromorphic memristor crossbar could theoretically become before it is inoperable. Furthermore, the input drivers to the crossbar are not typically studied in these neuromorphic system simulations. Presented is a model for determining the maximum memristor crossbar size relative to the input driver impedance. This is a powerful tool that can be used by a memristor system designers to quickly determine the trade‐offs between maximum crossbar size, resistance, energy, and write speed. This information can then be used to determine how many independent crossbar circuits are required for a given neuromorphic application.
Near‐threshold all‐digital PLL with dynamic voltage scaling power management
Authors: Chang C.‐W. , Chang K.‐Y. , Chu Y.‐H. , Jou S.‐J.
Published: November 2015

A near‐threshold all‐digital phase‐locked loop (ADPLL) with a power management unit (PMU) is presented to make the proposed ADPLL work reliably across variations and power consumption as well is reduced. When operated under near‐threshold condition from 0.52 to 0.58 V VDD, the gated digitally controlled oscillator frequency range is from 90.8 to 245.7 MHz. When the ADPLL is operated at 0.52 V VDD, a lock‐in time of 9.5 μs at 100 MHz output clock frequency is measured with an rms period jitter of 0.17% UI. With the PMU, the ADPLL power reduction at 130 MHz output frequency is 39% and the buck converter power consumption is nearly 30 μW. Consequently, the proposed ADPLL with PMU is suitable to event‐driven or low‐voltage applications.
MIMO antenna with omnidirectional pattern diversity
Authors: Malik J. , Nagpal D. , Kartikeyan M.V.
Published: November 2015

A planar printed multi‐input–multiple‐output (MIMO) antenna with pattern diversity is proposed. The two printed dipole‐like radiators have omnidirectional radiation patterns in the orthogonal planes. The antennas are printed on the opposite sides of a dielectric substrate, which makes it a compact MIMO system with excellent isolation between the antenna elements. With an external loaded capacitor, the MIMO antenna shows a wide frequency tunable range.
Kinematic bilateral teleoperation of wheeled mobile robots subject to longitudinal slippage
Authors: Li Weihua , Ding Liang , Gao Haibo , Tavakoli Mahdi
Published: November 2015

With the widespread use of wheeled mobile robots (WMRs) in various applications, new challenges have arisen in terms of designing its control system. One of such challenges is caused by wheel slippage. This study proposes a new method for haptic teleoperation control of a WMR with longitudinal slippage (not including sliding). In this teleoperation system, the mobile robot's linear velocity follows the master haptic interface's position. The proposed teleoperation controller also includes an acceleration‐level control law for the mobile robot such that the velocity loss caused by slippage is compensated for. Information about the magnitude and timing of slippage is displayed to the human operator through haptic (force) feedback. Despite the functional benefits of displaying slippage information as haptic feedback to the user, there are system stability related concerns that have been addressed using the proposed controller. Experiments of the proposed controller demonstrate that it results in stable bilateral teleoperation with a satisfactory tracking performance.
Status of the SPIRAL2 injector commissioning
Authors: Thuillier T. , Angot J. , Barué C. , Bertrand P. , Biarrotte J. L. , Canet C. , Denis J.-F. , Ferdinand R. , Flambard J.-L. , Jacob J. , Jardin P. , Lamy T. , Lemagnen F. , Maunoury L. , Osmond B. , Peaucelle C. , Roger A. , Sole P. , Touzery R. , Tuske O. , Uriot D.
Published: November 2015

The SPIRAL2 injector, installed in its tunnel, is currently under commissioning at GANIL, Caen, France. The injector is composed of two low energy beam transport lines: one is dedicated to the light ion beam production, the other to the heavy ions. The first light ion beam, created by a 2.45 GHz electron cyclotron resonance ion source, has been successfully produced in December 2014. The first beam of the PHOENIX V2 18 GHz heavy ion source was analyzed on 10 July 2015. A status of the SPIRAL2 injector commissioning is given. An upgrade of the heavy ion source, named PHOENIX V3 aimed to replace the V2, is presented. The new version features a doubled plasma chamber volume and the high charge state beam intensity is expected to increase by a factor of 1.5 to 2 up to the mass ∼50. A status of its assembly is proposed.
How quantum are non-negative wavefunctions?
Authors: Hastings M. B.
Published: November 2015

We consider wavefunctions which are non-negative in some tensor product basis. We study what possible teleportation can occur in such wavefunctions, giving a complete answer in some cases (when one system is a qubit) and partial answers elsewhere. We use this to show that a one-dimensional wavefunction which is non-negative and has zero correlation length can be written in a “coherent Gibbs state” form, as explained later. We conjecture that such holds in higher dimensions. Additionally, some results are provided on possible teleportation in general wavefunctions, explaining how Schmidt coefficients before measurement limit the possible Schmidt coefficients after measurement, and on the absence of a “generalized area law” [D. Aharonov et al., in Proceedings of Foundations of Computer Science (FOCS) (IEEE, 2014), p. 246; e-print arXiv.org:1410.0951] even for Hamiltonians with no sign problem. One of the motivations for this work is an attempt to prove a conjecture about ground state wavefunctions which have an “intrinsic” sign problem that cannot be removed by any quantum circuit. We show a weaker version of this, showing that the sign problem is intrinsic for commuting Hamiltonians in the same phase as the double semion model under the technical assumption that TQO-2 holds [S. Bravyi et al., J. Math. Phys. 51, 093512 (2010)].
Two-dimensional studies of relativistic electron beam plasma instabilities in an inhomogeneous plasma
Authors: Shukla Chandrasekhar , Das Amita , Patel Kartik
Published: November 2015

Relativistic electron beam propagation in plasma is fraught with several micro instabilities like two stream, filamentation, etc., in plasma. This results in severe limitation of the electron transport through a plasma medium. Recently, however, there has been an experimental demonstration of improved transport of Mega Ampere of electron currents (generated by the interaction of intense laser with solid target) in a carbon nanotube structured solid target [G. Chatterjee et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 108, 235005 (2012)]. This then suggests that the inhomogeneous plasma (created by the ionization of carbon nanotube structured target) helps in containing the growth of the beam plasma instabilities. This manuscript addresses this issue with the help of a detailed analytical study and 2-D Particle-In-Cell simulations. The study conclusively demonstrates that the growth rate of the dominant instability in the 2-D geometry decreases when the plasma density is chosen to be inhomogeneous, provided the scale length 1/ks of the inhomogeneous plasma is less than the typical plasma skin depth (c/ω0) scale. At such small scale lengths channelization of currents is also observed in simulation.
The mistletoe flora of southern Western Australia, with a particular reference to host relationships and fire
Authors: Start A. N.
Published: November 2015

The mistletoe flora of southern Western Australia was studied over a 30-year period with a particular emphasis on distributions, host relationships and fire. The study area encompassed Western Australia south of ~26° S. It included all the South-west Botanical Province and southern components of the Eremaean Botanical Province, with the northern boundary corresponding with bioregional boundaries. Vegetation ranges from wet and dry sclerophyll forest through woodlands and heaths to deserts. The mistletoe flora comprises 21 taxa, 19 in the Loranthaceae and two in the Santalaceae. They infect 153 species in 25 genera and 15 families. The Fabaceae provides hosts to more taxa than any other family; however, the genus with most host species, Eucalyptus (Myrtaceae), supports only two mistletoe species, one of which barely enters the study area. Melaleuca (also Myrtaceae) is host to seven species. The number of mistletoe species per bioregion ranges from 0 to 18, with 12 species in the seven bioregions of the South-west Botanical Province and 20 in the six bioregions of Eremaean Botanical Province that are within the study area. In both provinces, diversity is lower in coastal areas and higher in more arid, inland areas. Most mistletoe habitats in the study area are fire-prone. One species is probably capable of resprouting whereas all other taxa are obligate seeders. With no means of in situ seed storage, post-fire recovery depends on seed importation. Fire is the most pervasive (but not the only) threatening process operating today. However, fire management in more populous agricultural and urban areas safeguards many populations in the South-west Province.
Phytotoxic effects of phenolic compounds on Calopogonium mucunoides (Fabaceae) roots
Authors: Ribeiro Roberta Cristiane , Feitoza Rodrigo Barbosa Braga , Lima Helena Regina Pinto , Geraldo de Carvalho Mário
Published: November 2015

Studies on phenols have gained attention owing to their abundance in plants and their effects on plant development. Phenols from forage grasses may exert phytotoxicity on legume crops in intercropping systems. We aimed to identify morpho-anatomical variations in Calopogonium mucunoides Desv. roots treated with phenolic compounds. Seeds of C. mucunoides were treated with (1) distilled water (control), (2) trans-cinnamic acid, (3) a mixture of the flavonoids quercetin, rutin, kaempferol and kaempferol-3-α-rhamnoside, or (4) a combination of the flavonoid mixture and trans-cinnamic acid. After 10 days of treatment, the roots were measured, described and processed according to standard techniques in plant anatomy. In general, non-control individuals showed plant lengths decreased by 40–45%, root-tip necrosis and intense lateral root ramification. Seeds germinated in cinnamic acid presented xylem poles with a greater number of cells and a greater emission of lateral roots. In the seeds treated with flavonoids, cell division was observed in the endodermis and the pericycle, and xylem fibres went through differentiation. The combination of cinnamic acid and flavonoids led to the premature formation of fibres by the phloem. The treatments with flavonoids or cinnamic acid alone were significantly greater in root diameter (868.61 µm and 810.35 µm, respectively) than was the application of both (714.98 µm) or the control (533.76 µm). The results suggest that cinnamic acid and the tested flavonoids negatively affect the development and the root structure of C. mucunoides.
A strategy to reposition the South Australian health system for quality and value
Authors: O'Brien Sinéad , Edge Nicola , Clark Simon
Published: November 2015

Clinical commissioning was introduced in South Australia in 2012 to support implementation of the South Australian Health Care Plan and to achieve the desired transformation and efficiency gains required for a sustainable health system. This paper describes how the South Australian Commissioning Model was established and the process of developing the necessary culture, governance arrangements and performance management structures. Commissioning has played a key role in improving appropriateness and quality of clinical practice, resulting in reduced hospital inpatient growth and average length of stay. Despite early successes, there remain many challenges that need to be faced before value can be demonstrated consistently across the whole system.
Towards holistic dual diagnosis care: physical health screening in a Victorian community-based alcohol and drug treatment service
Authors: Jackson Lara , Felstead Boyce , Bhowmik Jahar , Avery Rachel , Nelson-Hearity Rhonda
Published: November 2015

The poorer health outcomes experienced by people with mental illness have led to new directions in policy for routine physical health screening of service users. By contrast, little attention has been paid to the physical health needs of consumers of alcohol and other drug (AOD) services, despite a similar disparity in physical health outcomes compared with the general population. The majority of people with problematic AOD use have comorbid mental illness, known as a dual diagnosis, likely to exacerbate their vulnerability to poor physical health. With the potential for physical health screening to improve health outcomes for AOD clients, a need exists for systematic identification and management of common health conditions. Within the current health service system, those with a dual diagnosis are more likely to have their physical health surveyed and responded to if they present for treatment in the mental health system. In this study, a physical health screening tool was administered to clients attending a community-based AOD service. The tool was administered by a counsellor during the initial phase of treatment, and referrals to health professionals were made as appropriate. Findings are discussed in terms of prevalence, types of problems identified and subsequent rates of referral. The results corroborate the known link between mental and physical ill health, and contribute to developing evidence that AOD clients present with equally concerning physical ill health to that of mental health clients and should equally be screened for such when presenting for AOD treatment.
Soluble Delta-like ligand 1 alters human endometrial epithelial cell adhesive capacity
Authors: Van Sinderen Michelle , Oyanedel Jennifer , Menkhorst Ellen , Cuman Carly , Rainczuk Katarzyna , Winship Amy , Salamonsen Lois , Edgell Tracey , Dimitriadis Evdokia
Published: November 2015

The endometrium undergoes substantial morphological and functional changes to become receptive to embryo implantation and to enable establishment of a successful pregnancy. Reduced Delta-like ligand 1 (DLL1, Notch ligand) in the endometrium is associated with infertility. DLL1 can be cleaved by ‘a disintegrin and metalloprotease’ (ADAM) proteases to produce a soluble ligand that may act to inhibit Notch signalling. We used an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to quantify soluble DLL1 in uterine lavages from fertile and infertile women in the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. We also determined the cellular location and immunostaining intensity of ADAM12 and 17 in human endometrium throughout the cycle. Functional effects of soluble DLL1 in receptivity were analysed using in vitro adhesion and proliferation assays and gene expression analysis of Notch signalling targets. Soluble DLL1 was significantly increased in uterine lavage samples of infertile women compared with fertile women in the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. This coincided with significantly increased ADAM17 immunostaining detected in the endometrial luminal epithelium in the mid-secretory phase in infertile women. Soluble DLL1 significantly inhibited the adhesive capacity of endometrial epithelial cells via downregulation of helix–loop–helix and hairy/enhancer of split family member HES1 mRNA. Thus, soluble DLL1 may serve as a suitable target or potential biomarker for receptivity.
Feasibility and Evaluation of Probabilistic On-site Surveys for Estimating Angler Use and Catch in High Mountain Lakes
Authors: McCormick Joshua L.
Published: November 2015

Estimating angling effort and catch at high mountain lakes can be difficult due the abundance, remoteness, and diffuse nature of angling effort that typify high mountain lake fisheries. In this study, a simulation was used to evaluate the accuracy of catch and effort estimates derived using on-site access–access and roving–access creel surveys at a complex of 35 high mountain lakes. Five levels of angling effort and catch at the 35 lakes were simulated, and effort varied from 3,278 to 68,741 h and catch varied from 1,737 to 50,525 fish over the duration of the season. Access–access creel surveys had an average of 32% relative error and roving–access surveys had an average of 17% relative error in estimates of aggregate (i.e., at all 35 lakes) angling effort and catch when one creel surveyor was used. Estimates were relatively robust to temporal and spatial changes in patterns of effort and catch rate over the duration of the season. Relative error was inversely related to the amount of angling effort, catch, and creel surveyors. Roving–access surveys outperformed access–access surveys at all levels of sampling effort. Bias and relative error of estimates of angling effort and catch were greater at the individual-lake scale than when estimates were derived for all 35 lakes. Results of this study suggest that on-site surveys can provide relatively accurate estimates of angling effort and catch at as many as 35 lakes with minimal sampling effort.

Received March 16, 2015; accepted August 14, 2015
Impact of single-site axonal GABAergic synaptic events on cerebellar interneuron activity
Authors: Zorrilla de San Martin Javier , Jalil Abdelali , Trigo Federico F.
Published: November 2015

Axonal ionotropic receptors are present in a variety of neuronal types, and their function has largely been associated with the modulation of axonal activity and synaptic release. It is usually assumed that activation of axonal GABAARs comes from spillover, but in cerebellar molecular layer interneurons (MLIs) the GABA source is different: in these cells, GABA release activates presynaptic GABAA autoreceptors (autoRs) together with postsynaptic targets, producing an autoR-mediated synaptic event. The frequency of presynaptic, autoR-mediated miniature currents is twice that of their somatodendritic counterparts, suggesting that autoR-mediated responses have an important effect on interneuron activity. Here, we used local Ca2+ photolysis in MLI axons of juvenile rats to evoke GABA release from individual varicosities to study the activation of axonal autoRs in single release sites. Our data show that single-site autoR conductances are similar to postsynaptic dendritic conductances. In conditions of high [Cl−]i, autoR-mediated conductances range from 1 to 5 nS; this corresponds to ∼30–150 GABAA channels per presynaptic varicosity, a value close to the number of channels in postsynaptic densities. Voltage responses produced by the activation of autoRs in single varicosities are amplified by a Nav-dependent mechanism and propagate along the axon with a length constant of 91 µm. Immunolabeling determination of synapse location shows that on average, one third of the synapses produce autoR-mediated signals that are large enough to reach the axon initial segment. Finally, we show that single-site activation of presynaptic GABAA autoRs leads to an increase in MLI excitability and thus conveys a strong feedback signal that contributes to spiking activity.
Report on the EURAMET key comparison EURAMET.AUV.V-K3
Authors: Bartoli C , Prasil M , Andersson H , Hof C , Schiavi A , Kolasa J , Medina N , Bruns T , Gazioch S , Licht T R , Hamalainen J
Published: November 2015

This report presents the result of the first EURAMET comparison in the area of 'low frequency vibration', in this case implying sinusoidal acceleration between DC and 200 Hz

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCAUV, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Scallops caught in the headlights: swimming escape behaviour of the Atlantic sea scallop (Placopecten magellanicus) reduced by artificial light
Authors: Siemann Liese A. , Parkins Christopher J. , Smolowitz Ronald J.
Published: November 2015

Quantifying the distribution and abundance of the Atlantic sea scallop (Placopecten magellanicus) is a fishery management priority, and stock assessments increasingly rely on video surveys. Interpreting the results of these surveys requires understanding the inherent biases introduced as a result of target animal behaviour. Our study investigated the effect of artificial lights on the behaviour of Atlantic sea scallops during a video survey using a towed benthic sled. Swimming and stationary scallops were counted in survey videos using event logging software. In addition, the locations, orientations, and swimming directions of the scallops were noted in a subset of the videos. The proportion of scallops that swam when an artificial light was turned on was significantly smaller than the proportion that swam when the light was off. Further analysis using a logistic model showed that only light state (off or on) predicted the likelihood of scallop swimming responses. Possible reasons for this unexpected behaviour are discussed, with a focus on the scallop visual system.
Only accessible information is useful: insights from gradient-mediated patterning
Authors: Tikhonov Mikhail , Little Shawn C. , Gregor Thomas
Published: November 2015

Information theory is gaining popularity as a tool to characterize performance of biological systems. However, information is commonly quantified without reference to whether or how a system could extract and use it; as a result, information-theoretic quantities are easily misinterpreted. Here, we take the example of pattern-forming developmental systems which are commonly structured as cascades of sequential gene expression steps. Such a multi-tiered structure appears to constitute sub-optimal use of the positional information provided by the input morphogen because noise is added at each tier. However, one must distinguish between the total information in a morphogen and information that can be usefully extracted and interpreted by downstream elements. We demonstrate that quantifying the information that isaccessibleto the system naturally explains the prevalence of multi-tiered network architectures as a consequence of the noise inherent to the control of gene expression. We support our argument with empirical observations from patterning along the major body axis of the fruit fly embryo. We use this example to highlight the limitations of the standard information-theoretic characterization of biological signalling, which are frequently de-emphasized, and illustrate how they can be resolved.
Automatic segmentation ofDrosophilaneural compartments using GAL4 expression data reveals novel visual pathways
Authors: Panser K , Tirian L , Schulze F , Villalba S , Jefferis GSXE , Bühler Katja , Straw AD
Published: November 2015

We made use of two recent, large-scaleDrosophilaGAL4 libraries and associated confocal imaging datasets to automatically segment large brain regions into smaller putative functional units such as neuropils and fiber tracts. The method we developed is based on the hypothesis that molecular identity can be used to assign individual voxels to biologically meaningful regions. Our results (available athttps://strawlab.org/braincode) are consistent with this hypothesis because regions with well-known anatomy, namely the antennal lobes and central complex, were automatically segmented into familiar compartments. We then applied the algorithm to the central brain regions receiving input from the optic lobes. Based on the automated segmentation and manual validation, we can identify and provide promising driver lines for 10 previously identified and 14 novel types of visual projection neurons and their associated optic glomeruli. The same strategy can be used in other brain regions and likely other species, including vertebrates.
Revolutionising Public Health Reference Microbiology using Whole Genome Sequencing:Salmonellaas an exemplar
Authors: Ashton Philip , Nair Satheesh , Peters Tansy , Tewolde Rediat , Day Martin , Doumith Michel , Green Jonathan , Jenkins Claire , Underwood Anthony , Arnold Catherine , de Pinna Elizabeth , Dallman Tim , Grant Kathie
Published: November 2015

Advances in whole genome sequencing (WGS) platforms and DNA library preparation have led to the development of methods for high throughput sequencing of bacterial genomes at a relatively low cost (Loman et al. 2012; Medini et al. 2008). WGS offers unprecedented resolution for determining degrees of relatedness between strains of bacterial pathogens and has proven a powerful tool for microbial population studies and epidemiological investigations (Harris et al. 2010; Lienau et al. 2011; Holt et al. 2009; Ashton, Peters, et al. 2015). The potential utility of WGS to public health microbiology has been highlighted previously (Köser et al. 2012; Kwong et al. 2013; Reuter et al. 2013; Joensen et al. 2014; Nair et al. 2014; Bakker et al. 2014; D’Auria et al. 2014). Here we report, for the first time, the routine use of WGS as the primary test for identification, surveillance and outbreak investigation by a national reference laboratory. We present data on how this has revolutionised public health microbiology for one of the most common bacterial pathogens in the United Kingdom, theSalmonellae.

DATA SUMMARY

1. PHE Salmonella sequencing data is deposited in the Sequence Read Archive in BioProject PRJNA248792.

IMPACT STATEMENT

The first human genome cost around $3 billion, and took around 10 years to complete. Advances in DNA sequencing technology (also referred to as whole genome sequencing (WGS)) allow the same feat to be accomplished today for less than $10000 and less than 2 weeks. This remarkable improvement in technology has also led to a step change in microbiology, increasing our understanding of the evolution of major human pathogens such asYersinia pestis, SalmonellaTyphi andMycobacterium tuberculosis.While these kinds of academic studies provide unparalleled context for public health action, until now, this approach has not been routinely employed at the frontline. At Public Health England, WGS has been implemented for routine public health identification, characterisation and typing of an important human pathogen,Salmonella,replacing methods that have changed little over the last 100 years. Analysis of WGS data has identified outbreaks that were previously undetectable and been used to infer rare antimicrobial resistance patterns. This paper will serve as a notification to the community of the methods PHE are using, and will be of great use to other public health labs considering switching to WGS.
The Role of Visual Attention in the Managerial Judgment of Balanced‐Scorecard Performance Evaluation: Insights from Using an Eye‐Tracking Device
Authors: CHEN YASHENG , JERMIAS JOHNNY , PANGGABEAN TOTA
Published: November 2015

This paper investigates the role of visual attention in managerial judgments during balanced‐scorecard performance evaluations. Using the Locarna eye tracker to establish the amount of time managers spent focused on visual cues, we found that managers who look more at strategically linked performance measures are more likely to make decisions consistent with the achievement of their subordinates’ strategic objectives. When aware of strategy, managers focused more on strategically linked performance measures than on nonlinked measures. The presentation format of the strategy information did not significantly affect this focus. Our findings indicate that awareness of strategically linked performance measures, but not their presentation, appears to be important in helping managers to make better decisions. This study contributes to the management accounting literature by generating useful insights into the impact of visual attention on judgments and decision‐making processes.
Beneficial Influence of Short‐Term Germination on Decreasing Allergenicity of Peanut Proteins
Authors: Li Yingchao , Sun Xiulan , Ma Zhezhe , Cui Yan , Du Chao , Xia Xiuhua , Qian He
Published: November 2015

Most allergenic storage proteins in peanuts are degraded during seed germination. By altering this natural physiological process, it might be possible to reduce peanut protein allergenicity. However, little is known about the change in allergenic proteins and their corresponding immunocreactivity, and the effects of major environmental conditions on their allergenicity during germination. In this study, the influence of different germination conditions (temperature and light) on the degradation of Ara h1 and allergenicity changes of peanut seeds was evaluated by ELISA and Western blotting. The results showed that the 40‐ and 65‐kDa proteins in peanut seeds degraded rapidly during the time course, beginning at 60 (at 25 °C) and 108 h (at 20 °C), and the corresponding immunocreactivity of Ara h1 decreased approximately one‐third after 5 to 7 d of germination. Compared with the cotyledons, the embryonic axes had a higher proportion of Ara h1, which was then degraded relatively faster during germination, resulting in a significant reduction in its allergenicity. Although a higher temperature improved the seed germination rate, it affected sprout quality (as did light); therefore, 25 °C and dark surroundings were suitable conditions under which peanut sprouts were processed; neither factor significantly affected the allergenicity of Ara h1. These results provided a theoretical basis for studies using biological methods to reduce peanut allergenicity.
The marine bacteria Shewanella frigidimarina NCIMB400 upregulates the type VI secretion system during early biofilm formation
Authors: Linares Denis , Jean Natacha , Van Overtvelt Perrine , Ouidir Tassadit , Hardouin Julie , Blache Yves , Molmeret Maëlle
Published: November 2015

Shewanella sp. are facultative anaerobic Gram‐negative bacteria, extensively studied for their electron transfer ability. Shewanella frigidimarina has been detected and isolated from marine environments, and in particular, from biofilms. However, its ability to adhere to surfaces and form a biofilm is poorly understood. In this study, we show that the ability to adhere and to form a biofilm of S. frigidimarina NCIMB400 is significantly higher than that of Shewanella oneidensis in our conditions. We also show that this strain forms a biofilm in artificial seawater, whereas in Luria–Bertani, this capacity is reduced. To identify proteins involved in early biofilm formation, a proteomic analysis of sessile versus planktonic membrane‐enriched fractions allowed the identification of several components of the same type VI secretion system gene cluster: putative Hcp1 and ImpB proteins as well as a forkhead‐associated domain‐containing protein. The upregulation of Hcp1 a marker of active translocation has been confirmed using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Our data demonstrated the presence of a single and complete type VI secretion system in S. frigidimarina NCIMB400 genome, upregulated in sessile compared with planktonic conditions. The fact that three proteins including the secreted protein Hcp1 have been identified may suggest that this type VI secretion system is functional.
A prospective observational study of maternal oxygenation during remifentanil patient‐controlled analgesia use in labour
Authors: Messmer A. A. , Potts J. M. , Orlikowski C. E.
Published: November 2015

Numerous studies of remifentanil patient‐controlled analgesia during labour have shown high levels of maternal satisfaction, but concerns remain, especially over the side‐effects of sedation and respiratory depression. We conducted a prospective observational study of maternal oxygen desaturation during remifentanil patient‐controlled analgesia. Pulse oximetry values were recorded every eight s and later downloaded for analysis. A desaturation episode was defined as oxygen saturation < 90%. We collected 148 h of data in 61 women, during which we observed 176 desaturation episodes. These episodes occurred in 43 (70%) women. The median (IQR [range]) of the lowest saturation during each episode was 87 (85–89 [68–89])% with duration 16 (8–24 [8–104]) s. Supplementary oxygen reduced the time per hour spent with saturation < 90%, but not the depth or duration of individual episodes. Desaturation episodes were twice as common during the second stage of labour as compared with the first stage. Prior opioid administration, bolus size and use of nitrous oxide during patient‐controlled analgesia use were not found to influence frequency, depth or duration of desaturation episodes. Although these findings suggest desaturation occurs more frequently during remifentanil patient‐controlled analgesia than previously reported, the results are comparable with earlier oximetry studies of women who received nitrous oxide and pethidine during labour.
Refusing to be Toured: Work, Tourism, and the Productivity of “Life” in the Colombian Amazon
Authors: Craven Caitlin E.
Published: November 2015

Starting from the contention that exercising a “right to tour” is predicated on the work of producing tourability, I examine how tourability itself is a contested process involving relations of land and labour. Examining the current “resource boom” of ecotourism in the Colombian Amazon, I use an analysis of work and capital accumulation to unravel a seemingly small act of refusal by the community of Nazaret that has barred tourists’ entry to their land. I argue that this act of refusal opens up space for critically examining the relationships of land and labour, especially through the production of “life”, in the accumulation of tourable places in contemporary global capitalism. Engaging literature on both tourism studies and land politics in the Amazon region, I contribute to the scholarship on tourism and work while examining how Indigenous landscapes are being made productive towards the ends of capitalism.
Solving seasonality in tourism? Labour shortages and guest worker programmes in the USA
Authors: Terry William C
Published: November 2015

The purpose of this paper is to examine the use of guest workers in tourism and hospitality in the USA. Despite the fact that many jobs in tourism require few hard skills and should therefore be open to a wide labour market, human resource managers report a dearth of qualified applicants. In order to meet seasonal shortfalls of workers, many have turned to the H‐2B and J‐1 programmes as a means of accessing foreign guest workers. Each comes with a particular set of rules and regulations that produce a different sort of worker, the H‐2B workers with more experience but higher costs, and the J‐1 workers with less experience, but more flexibility and lower costs. The study is based on qualitative interviews and analysis of hiring managers and recruiters in the Carolinas in the USA. Results provide a voice for operators to express the challenges they face in recruiting in a seasonal industry, and suggest that neither programme is adequate to fully meet the hiring needs of the industry.
A record of the Messinian salinity crisis in the eastern Ionian tectonically active domain (Greece, eastern Mediterranean)
Authors: Karakitsios Vasileios , Roveri Marco , Lugli Stefano , Manzi Vinicio , Gennari Rocco , Antonarakou Assimina , Triantaphyllou Maria , Agiadi Konstantina , Kontakiotis George , Kafousia Nefeli , de Rafelis Marc
Published: November 2015

This integrated study (field observations, micropalaeontology, magnetostratigraphy, geochemistry, borehole data and seismic profiles) of the Messinian–Zanclean deposits on Zakynthos Island (Ionian Sea) focuses on the sedimentary succession recording the pre‐evaporitic phase of the Messinian salinity crisis (MSC) through the re‐establishment of the marine conditions in a transitional area between the eastern and the western Mediterranean. Two intervals are distinguished through the palaeoenvironmental reconstruction of the pre‐evaporitic Messinian in Kalamaki: (a) 6.45–6.122 Ma and (b) 6.122–5.97 Ma. Both the planktonic foraminifer and the fish assemblages indicate a cooling phase punctuated by hypersalinity episodes at around 6.05 Ma. Two evaporite units are recognized and associated with the tectonic evolution of the Kalamaki–Argassi area. The Primary Lower Gypsum (PLG) unit was deposited during the firstMSCstage (5.971–5.60 Ma) in late‐Messinian marginal basins within the pre‐Apulian foreland basin and in the wedge‐top (<300 m) developed over the Ionian zone. During the secondMSCstage (5.60–5.55 Ma), thePLGevaporites were deeply eroded in the forebulge–backbulge and the wedge‐top areas, and supplied the foreland basin's depocentre with gypsum turbidites assigned to the Resedimented Lower Gypsum (RLG) unit. In this study, we propose a simple model for the Neogene–Pliocene continental foreland‐directed migration of the Hellenide thrusting, which explains the palaeogeography of the Zakynthos basin. The diapiric movements of the Ionian Triassic evaporites regulated the configuration and the overall subsidence of the foreland basin and, therefore, theMSCexpression in this area.
Novel therapeutic compound tuftsin–phosphorylcholine attenuates collagen-induced arthritis
Authors: Bashi T , Shovman O , Fridkin M , Volkov A , Barshack I , Blank M , Shoenfeld Y
Published: November 2015

Treatment with helminthes and helminthes ova improved the clinical symptoms of several autoimmune diseases in patients and in animal models. Phosphorylcholine (PC) proved to be the immunomodulatory molecule. We aimed to decipher the tolerogenic potential of tuftsin–PC (TPC), a novel helminth-based compound in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) a mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). CIA DBA/1 mice were treated with TPC subcutaneously (5 µg/0.1 ml) or orally (250 µg/0.1 ml), starting prior to disease induction. The control groups were treated with PBS. Collagen antibodies were tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), cytokine protein levels by ELISA kits and regulatory T (Treg) and regulatory B (Breg) cell phenotypes by fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACS). TPC-treated mice had a significantly lower arthritis score of 1.5 in comparison with control mice 11.8 (P < 0.0001) in both subcutaneous and orally treated groups at day 31. Moreover, histology analysis demonstrated highly inflamed joints in control mice, whereas TPC-treated mice maintained normal joint structure. Furthermore, TPC decreased the titres of circulating collagen II antibodies in mice sera (P < 0.0001), enhanced expression of IL-10 (P < 0.0001) and inhibited production of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)−17 and IL-1β (P < 0.0001). TPC significantly expanded the CD4+CD25+ forkhead box protein 3 (FoxP3+) Treg cells and CD19+IL-10+CD5highCD1dhighT cell immunoglobulin mucin-1 (TIM-1+) Breg cell phenotypes (P < 0.0001) in treated mice. Our data indicate that treatment with TPC attenuates CIA in mice demonstrated by low arthritic score and normal joints histology. TPC treatment reduced proinflammatory cytokines and increased anti-inflammatory cytokine expression, as well as expansion of Treg and Breg cells. Our results may lead to a new approach for a natural therapy for early rheumatoid arthritis onset.
Role of the Lakes in Groundwater Recharge and Discharge in the Young Glacial Area, Northern Poland
Authors: Jaworska‐Szulc Beata
Published: November 2015

The aim of this research was to delineate characteristic hydrogeological lake types in the Young Glacial Area (YGA). The YGA is in the central and east part of the Kashubian Lake District (KLD) in Northern Poland, an area covered by deposits of Quaternary glaciation. All the bigger lakes were investigated in the area of about 1500 km2 (39 lakes). The role of lakes in groundwater recharge and discharge was determined from total dissolved solids (TDS) in lake waters and also from groundwater flow simulation. The general trend was that gaining lakes, as determined by flow modeling, had higher values of TDS than losing lakes. In addition to typical gaining lakes (with TDS > 250 mg/l), there were losing lakes perched on glacial till deposits with very low TDS (<100 mg/l). Two groups of losing lakes were delineated: ones with very low TDS and another group with slightly higher TDS (due to local contact with groundwater). Flow‐through lakes with TDS of 170–200 mg/l were also delineated.
A Review of Cardiovascular Autonomic Control in Cluster Headache
Authors: Barloese Mads C.J.
Published: November 2015

Objective

This review aims to evaluate existing literature concerning cardiovascular autonomic function and CH. Suggestions about future research are offered and known difficulties in investigating the autonomic nervous system in cluster headache are discussed.

Background

Little is known of the pathophysiological mechanisms behind cluster headache. Cranial autonomic features are an inherent and diagnostic feature; however, a number of studies and clinical observations support the involvement of systemic autonomic control in its pathophysiology. Further, cluster headache attacks are apparently more easily triggered during periods of parasympathetic dominance. A better understanding of this interaction may provide insight into central autonomic regulation and its role in cluster headache.

Methods

A PubMed search was performed in April 2015 using the search terms “cluster headache,” “cardiovascular,” “autonomic nervous system,” and “cardiac.” References of identified articles were also searched for relevant articles. Studies were included if they contained data on cardiovascular or autonomic responses to autonomic tests, induced or spontaneous attacks.

Results

In total, 22 studies investigating cardiac autonomic control in cluster headache were identified. Three overall categories of investigations exist: (1) Those studying changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and electrocardiographic changes; (2) those employing various clinical autonomic tests; and finally (3) those using spectral and nonlinear analysis of heart rate variability. Although not completely congruent, overall, results suggest ictal hyperactivation of the parasympathetic branch and a sympathetic deficit. Subclinical autonomic dysregulation is also present in the pain‐free state.

Conclusion

Cardiac autonomic control is subclinically affected in cluster headache. The changes could be attributed to the suggested central dysregulation present in this disorder.