bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Europe‐wide biogeographical patterns in the diet of an ecologically and epidemiologically important mesopredator, the red fox Vulpes vulpes: a quantitative review
Authors: Soe Egle , Davison John , Süld Karmen , Valdmann Harri , Laurimaa Leidi , Saarma Urmas
Published: May 2017

Understanding how the diet of an ecologically important mesopredator varies throughout a large region can provide an insight into the trophic responses of generalist carnivores to global change. We review the diet of the red fox Vulpes vulpes in Europe.

The main aims of this study were: (1) to identify biogeographical patterns in red fox diet throughout Europe; (2) to investigate the significance of the human footprint index (a measure of anthropogenic influence on habitats) for the Europe‐wide food habits of red foxes; and (3) to discuss the ecosystem role of red foxes in the face of global change.

We hypothesised that in the red fox: (1) diet composition is likely to vary along a latitudinal gradient, between seasons (pooled into warm and cold periods of the year), and in relation to human impact on habitats; and (2) dietary breadth will increase with latitude and be greater during the warm period than during the cold period. We conducted a Europe‐wide analysis of red fox diet, using data from 66 studies in 17 European countries. Multivariate analysis and generalised linear models were used to evaluate variation in diet composition and niche breadth in relation to latitude, season, and human footprint index.

The analysis revealed that red fox diet composition varies considerably in response to latitude, human influence, and warm and cold periods. Dietary breadth decreases at higher latitudes in the cold period, but not in the warm period, and increases in areas with high human impact. Among individual dietary items, the consumption of lagomorphs is more frequent in areas with higher human footprint index. The occurrence of rodents and birds in fox diet increases uniformly with latitude, while that of plants and invertebrates responds differently to latitude in the warm and cold periods.

With climate warming, red foxes may incorporate a wider spectrum of food categories into their diet in northern areas in the future. Widening of fox dietary niche breadth could have important consequences for ecosystems and for the spread of zoonotic diseases.
Japanese WDR45 de novo mutation diagnosed by exome analysis: A case report
Authors: Endo Hironobu , Uenaka Takeshi , Satake Wataru , Suzuki Yutaka , Tachibana Hisatsugu , Chihara Norio , Ueda Takehiro , Sekiguchi Kenji , Mariko Taniguchi‐Ikeda , Kowa Hisatomo , Kanda Fumio , Toda Tatsushi
Published: May 2017

A 40‐year‐old Japanese woman presented with slowly progressing parkinsonism in adulthood. She had a history of epilepsy with intellectual disability in childhood. In a head magnetic resonance scan, T2‐weighted imaging showed low signal intensity areas in the globus pallidus and the substantia nigra; T1‐weighted imaging showed a halo in the nigra. Because the patient's symptoms and history were similar to those of patients with neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation, we ran an exome analysis to investigate neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation‐associated genes. We identified a c.700 C>T (p.Arg 234*) mutation in exon 9 of the WDR45 gene, which had not been reported in Japanese patients with beta‐propeller protein‐associated neurodegeneration (a neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation subtype). Sanger sequencing confirmed a heterozygous mutation in this patient that was absent in both her parents, so it was judged to be a de novo nonsense mutation.
Giant Cell Tumor of the Mobile Spine Occurring in Pregnancy: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Zheng Kai , Xu Ming , Wang Bing , Yu Xiu‐chun , Hu Yong‐cheng
Published: May 2017

Giant cell tumor (GCT) is a benign, locally aggressive tumor that rarely occurs in the spine. They usually occur in patients between 20 and 40 years of age; some patients with GCT present in hospital with pregnancy. The management of these patients can be challenging. The current study reports a case of GCT located in the sixth thoracic vertebra of a 31‐year‐old female at 34 weeks of gestation. An osteolytic lesion, 3.5 cm × 3.5 cm in diameter, was identified on CT. An MRI test of the lesion revealed a soft tissue mass involving the T
6–7 vertebrae, extending to the right pedicle of the T
6 vertebra and causing significant spinal cord compression. The patient delivered a healthy boy by cesarean at 35 weeks of gestation. One week later, she underwent a T
6–T
7 laminectomy, posterior spinal decompression, and instrument fusion. Ultimately, the patient was discharged to inpatient rehabilitation with improved lower extremity strength and returned bowel and bladder function. At the 2‐year follow‐up, there is no evidence of local reoccurrence and the patient has no constitutional symptoms. The present study also reviews eight similar previously reported cases of GCT in the mobile spine, with a discussion of the demographic characteristics, treatment, and prognosis of pregnant patients. This report adds to the existing literature, making the reader aware that clinical symptoms of GCT in the mobile spine can be misinterpreted as a symptom of pregnancy. For spinal GCT in pregnant women, continued pregnancy and definitive surgery after the baby is born are recommended without any serious nerve damage.
Tree water dynamics in a drying and warming world
Authors: Grossiord Charlotte , Sevanto Sanna , Borrego Isaac , Chan Allison M. , Collins Adam D. , Dickman Lee T. , Hudson Patrick J. , McBranch Natalie , Michaletz Sean T. , Pockman William T. , Ryan Max , Vilagrosa Alberto , McDowell Nate G.
Published: May 2017

Disentangling the relative impacts of precipitation reduction and vapour pressure deficit (VPD) on plant water dynamics and determining whether acclimation may influence these patterns in the future is an important challenge. Here, we report sap flux density (FD), stomatal conductance (Gs), hydraulic conductivity (KL) and xylem anatomy in piñon pine (Pinus edulis) and juniper (Juniperus monosperma) trees subjected to five years of precipitation reduction, atmospheric warming (elevated VPD) and their combined effects. No acclimation occurred under precipitation reduction: lower Gs and FD were found for both species compared to ambient conditions. Warming reduced the sensibility of stomata to VPD for both species but resulted in the maintenance of Gs and FD to ambient levels only for piñon. For juniper, reduced soil moisture under warming negated benefits of stomatal adjustments and resulted in reduced FD, Gs and KL. Although reduced stomatal sensitivity to VPD also occurred under combined stresses, reductions in Gs, FD and KL took place to similar levels as under single stresses for both species. Our results show that stomatal conductance adjustments to high VPD could minimize but not entirely prevent additive effects of warming and drying on water use and carbon acquisition of trees in semi‐arid regions.
Positive role of phytochromes in Nicotiana tabacum against Cucumber mosaic virus via a salicylic acid‐dependent pathway
Authors: Chen L.‐J. , Fei C.‐Y. , Xu Z.‐P. , Wu G. , Lin H.‐H. , Xi D.‐H.
Published: May 2017

Previous literature indicates that both light and photoreceptors may play key roles in host susceptibility to viruses. Studies have already suggested that phytochrome B is essential for the defence strategies of Nicotiana tabacum against Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV). Here, further investigations are made into the roles of phytochromes in N. tabacum against CMV. The recombinant vector pRNAi‐LIC‐PHYA/PHYB was used to produce tobacco phyA, phyB and phyAphyB mutants via the Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation method. The results suggest that both phyA and phyB deficiency increase the susceptibility of N. tabacum to CMV infection. Mutant plants showed more obvious CMV‐induced symptoms and higher transcriptional levels of the CMV coat protein gene than wild type plants, and the effect was clearly synergistic in the phyAphyB double mutant. Furthermore, the data show that mutations in phyA/phyB up‐regulate the sensitivity of N. tabacum to CMV by repressing the salicylic acid (SA)‐mediated defence pathway in tobacco plants. Additionally, the results indicate that phytochrome signalling strongly modulates the response of N. tabacum to endogenous SA but not to endogenous jasmonic acid. Taken together, these results reinforce the idea that intact phytochrome signalling plays a positive role in the ability of N. tabacum to resist CMV and is required for the induction and development of SA‐mediated defence responses in CMV‐inoculated N. tabacum.
Blood donors' attitudes towards voluntary non‐remunerated donation in Trinidad and Tobago
Authors: Charles K. S. , Poon King A. , Ramai A. , Rajnath K. , Ramkissoon D. , Ramkissoon S. , Ramlal C. , Ramnarine K. , Rampersad K. , Legall G. , Pooransingh S. , Chantry A. D.
Published: May 2017

Objectives

To assess the attitude towards voluntary non‐remunerated blood donation among blood donors in Trinidad and Tobago (TRT).

Background

Blood donors in TRT are either family replacement (F/R, 87%) or remunerated (13%). There is chronic blood shortage and high seroreactivity for transfusion‐transmissible infections (TTI) in donors. Converting existing to voluntary non‐remunerated donors (VNRD) reduces the need to recruit news donors in achieving 100% VNRD.

Methods

A questionnaire‐based, cross‐sectional survey was conducted at two blood collection centres at an interval of 8 years. Donors were surveyed for sociodemographic characteristics, awareness of the blood shortage, previous donation behaviour, donor‐beneficiary linkage if F/R, willingness to become VNRD and choice of motivators for converting to VNRD.

Results

A total of 400 and 595 donors respectively participated in Surveys 1 and 2, of whom 92·8 and 86·3% were F/R (P < 0·001), respectively. In both surveys, 52% of participants were unaware of an existing blood shortage (P = 0·983). Only 9·8 and 9·1% of participants expressed unwillingness to become VNRD (P = 0·720). The main motivators to convert to VNRD were reminders from the centre (84%) and extended opening hours (78%) in Survey 1 as compared to confidence that donated blood was used properly (73%) and shortened waiting times to donate (73%) in Survey 2.

Conclusion

Despite low awareness of blood shortage, willingness to become VNRD was high among existing donors. Accountability and donor convenience underpinned the main motivators for converting to VNRD.
Pulmonary pythiosis in a canine patient
Authors: Kepler Darin , Cole Robert , Lee‐Fowler Tekla , Koehler Jey , Shrader Stephanie , Newton Joe
Published: May 2017

A Staffordshire terrier presented for evaluation of a chronic, nonproductive cough that was unresponsive to antibiotic therapy. A large mass identified in the pulmonary hilum was most consistent with tracheobronchial lymphadenopathy on radiographic and computed tomography (CT) images. Bronchoscopy confirmed a mass compressing the dorsal portion of the intrathoracic trachea. Bronchoscopic biopsies of the tracheal mass revealed necrosuppurative and eosinophilic inflammation with intralesional Pythium insidiousum hyphae. Pythiosis should be included as a differential diagnosis for tracheobronchial lymphadenopathy and bronchopneumopathy in dogs, especially when the patient is from or has visited a region endemic for Pythium insidiosum.
Modelling of water reserves in mineral soils with different retention properties
Authors: Orzepowski Wojciech , Paruch Adam M. , Kowalczyk Tomasz , Pokładek Ryszard , Pulikowski Krzysztof
Published: May 2017

This work focuses on modelling soil water reserves using an Artificial Neural Network (ANN). Four model variants were established based on 843 records (verified through 268 measurements) of soil water content (SWC) measured at full‐scale field sites located in Southwest Poland. It is revealed that commonly recorded climatic data (precipitation and temperature) linked with SWC and field water capacity (FWC) are applicable in the ANN modelling. The basic model (utilising the meteorological data) was the most suitable for soil profiles with thicknesses of 0–25 cm, while in profiles with thicknesses of 0–50 cm and 0–100 cm the comprehensive ANN model (linking climatic data, FWC and SWC) was the most appropriate. Furthermore, comparative studies of the measured and modelled data indicated their statistical convergence, thus providing support for the practical implementation of the proposed ANN modelling.
Optimal Damping in Circular Cylindrical Sandwich Shells With a Three-Layered Viscoelastic Composite Core
Authors: Kumar Ambesh , Panda Satyajit
Published: May 2017

In this work, the damping characteristics of circular cylindrical sandwich shell with a three-layered viscoelastic composite core are investigated. The new composite core is composed of the identical inclusions of graphite-strips which are axially embedded within a cylindrical viscoelastic core at its middle surface. The physical configuration of the composite core is attributed in the form of a cylindrical laminate of two identical monolithic viscoelastic layers over the inner and outer cylindrical surfaces of middle viscoelastic composite layer so that it is a three-layered viscoelastic composite core. A finite element (FE) model of the overall shell is developed based on the layerwise deformation theory and Sander's shell theory. Using this FE model, the damping characteristics of the shell are studied within an operating frequency range after configuring the size and circumferential distribution of graphite-strips in optimal manner. The numerical results reveal significantly improved damping in the sandwich shell for the use of present three-layered composite core instead of traditional single-layered viscoelastic core. It is also found that the three-layered core provides the advantage in achieving damping at different natural modes as per their assigned relative importance while it is impossible in the use of single-layered viscoelastic core.
Composite Path Tracking Control for Tractor–Trailer Vehicles Via Constrained Model Predictive Control and Direct Adaptive Fuzzy Techniques
Authors: Yue Ming , Hou Xiaoqiang , Hou Wenbin
Published: May 2017

Tractor–trailer vehicles will suffer from nonholonomic constraint, uncertain disturbance, and various physical limits, when they perform path tracking maneuver autonomously. This paper presents a composite path tracking control strategy to tackle the various problems arising from not only vehicle kinematic but also dynamic levels via two powerful control techniques. The proposed composite control structure consists of a model predictive control (MPC)-based posture controller and a direct adaptive fuzzy-based dynamic controller, respectively. The former posture controller can make the underactuated trailer midpoint follow an arbitrary reference trajectory given by the earth-fixed frame, as well as satisfying various physical limits. Meanwhile, the latter dynamic controller enables the vehicle velocities to track the desired velocities produced by the former one, and the global asymptotical convergence of dynamic controller is strictly guaranteed in the sense of Lyapunov stability theorem. The simulation results illustrate that the presented control strategy can achieve a coordinated control effect for the sophisticated tractor–trailer vehicles, thereby enhancing their movement performance in complex environments.
Soft Switching in Switched Inertance Hydraulic Circuits
Authors: Yudell Alexander C. , Van de Ven James D.
Published: May 2017

Switched inertance hydraulic systems (SIHS) use inductive, capacitive, and switching elements to boost or “buck” (reduce) a pressure from a source to a load in an ideally lossless manner. Real SIHS circuits suffer a variety of energy losses, with throttling of flow during transitions of the high-speed valve resulting in as much as 44% of overall losses. These throttling energy losses can be mitigated by applying the analog of zero-voltage-switching, a soft switching strategy, adopted from power electronics. In the soft switching circuit, the flow that would otherwise be throttled across the transitioning valve is stored in a capacitive element and bypassed through check valves in parallel with the switching valves. To evaluate the effectiveness of soft switching in a boost converter SIHS, a lumped parameter model was constructed. Simulation demonstrates that soft switching improves the efficiency of the modeled circuit by 42% at peak load power and extends the power delivery capabilities by 77%.
Complete Genome Sequence of Staphylococcus aureus Bacteriophage pSa-3
Authors: Kim Sang Guen , Jun Jin Woo , Giri Sib Sankar , Yun Saekil , Kim Hyoun Joong , Chi Cheng , Kim Sang Wha , Park Se Chang
Published: May 2017

Staphylococcus aureus
phage pSa-3, isolated in South Korea from a sewage sample, has a 137-kb genome with 29% G+C content. This phage was targeted to control the bacteria in clinical isolates (mainly from skin lesions) and can be used in the decolonization of
S. aureus
.
Finished Whole-Genome Sequences of Two Clostridium botulinum Type A(B) Isolates
Authors: Halpin Jessica L. , Hill Karen , Johnson Shannon L. , Bruce David Carlton , Shirey T. Brian , Dykes Janet K. , Lúquez Carolina
Published: May 2017

Clostridium botulinum
secretes a potent neurotoxin that causes devastating effects when ingested, including paralysis and death if not treated. In the United States, some clinically significant strains produce toxin type A while also harboring a silent B gene. These are the first two closed genome sequences published for this subset.
Complete Genome Sequence of Moraxella catarrhalis Strain CCRI-195ME, Isolated from the Middle Ear
Authors: Tan Aimee , Blakeway Luke V. , Bakaletz Lauren O. , Boitano Matthew , Clark Tyson A. , Korlach Jonas , Jennings Michael P. , Peak Ian R. , Seib Kate L.
Published: May 2017

Moraxella catarrhalis
is an important bacterial pathogen that causes otitis media and exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of
M. catarrhalis
strain CCRI-195ME, which contains the phase-variable epigenetic regulator ModM3.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Salt Water Bacterium Oceanospirillum linum ATCC 11336
T
Authors: Trachtenberg Ariel M. , Carney Joshua G. , Linnane Joshua D. , Rheaume Bruce A. , Pitts Natalie L. , Mykles Donald L. , MacLea Kyle S.
Published: May 2017

Oceanospirillum linum
ATCC 11336
T
is an aerobic, bipolar-tufted gammaproteobacterium first isolated in the Long Island Sound in the 1950s. This announcement offers a genome sequence for
O. linum
ATCC 11336
T
, which has a predicted genome size of 3,782,189 bp (49.13% G+C content) containing 3,540 genes and 3,361 coding sequences.
Draft Genome Sequence of Microbacterium foliorum Strain 122 Isolated from a Plant Growing in a Chronically Hydrocarbon-Contaminated Site
Authors: Lumactud Rhea , Fulthorpe Roberta , Sentchilo Vladimir , van der Meer Jan Roelof
Published: May 2017

Microbacterium foliorum
strain 122 is a bacterial endophyte isolated from a
Dactylis glomerata
plant growing in a natural oil seep soil located in Oil Springs, Ontario, Canada. We present here a draft genome sequence of an endophytic strain that has promising potential in hydrocarbon degradation and plant growth promotion.
Kicked to touch: Hoodwinked by torticollis
Authors: Mc Donald Ciaran K , Mc Goldrick Niall , Ni Fhoghlu Cliodhna , Shannon Fintan
Published: May 2017

A 2-year-old girl presented to the emergency department with a 3-day history of a painful stiff neck after getting a kick to her head from her older brother. Her general practitioner had recently started her on oral antibiotics for otitis media. Plain film imaging of her cervical spine on admission revealed anterior subluxation of C2 on C3 suggestive of bifacetal dislocation. Subsequent CT imaging confirmed malalignment of the upper cervical spine. The patient was admitted and worked up with MRI of the cervical spine which unexpectedly revealed a large 4×2 cm retropharyngeal abscess extending from C1 to C4. No associated structural abnormality of the spine was detected. This case report highlights the life-threatening causes of torticollis (retropharyngeal abscess and cervical spine injury), and summarises the anatomy and normal variants that one should expect on interpretation of cervical spine imagery.
Progression of lamellar hole-associated epiretinal proliferation and retinal changes during long-term follow-up
Authors: Compera Denise , Schumann Ricarda G , Cereda Matteo G , Acquistapace Alessandra , Lita Viviane , Priglinger Siegfried G , Staurenghi Giovanni , Bottoni Ferdinando
Published: May 2017

Purpose

To report on progression of lamellar hole-associated epiretinal proliferation (LHEP) in eyes with lamellar macular holes (LMH) using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), and to correlate with intraretinal changes and visual function.

Methods

From a retrospectively reviewed series of 167 eyes with non-full-thickness macular holes, we exclusively included a subgroup of 34 eyes with LMH and LHEP by SD-OCT evaluation. In these eyes, area of LHEP, intraretinal changes of defect diameter, central retinal thickness, defects of the ellipsoid zone and occurrence of a contractive epiretinal membrane were analysed. Additionally, clinical data were documented.

Results

Area of LHEP significantly increased during a mean follow-up period of 40.5 months (median 52 months). Analysing intraretinal changes, a significant enlargement of minimum and maximum horizontal lamellar hole diameter was found that correlated with the area of LHEP. Defects of the ellipsoid zone were seen in 65% of the eyes at baseline and in 85% at the end of follow-up. Increase of maximum horizontal hole diameter and ellipsoid zone defects correlated with a decline of visual acuity. Fifty per cent of patients with LMH and LHEP also demonstrated extrafoveal typical contractive epiretinal membranes with retinal folds.

Conclusions

Long-term follow-up revealed an increase of the area of LHEP in eyes with LMH that correlated with the enlargement of lamellar hole diameter and ellipsoid zone defects. Our data delineate the progression of intraretinal changes in association with a decline of visual function in this subgroup of LMH eyes.
Easy but not straightforward: base and solvent effect on the synthesis of luminescent europium 1,3-di(thien-2-yl)propane-1,3-dionate coordination complexes
Authors: Armelao Lidia , Carlotto Alice , Mian Federica , Tessarolo Jacopo , Bottaro Gregorio , Rancan Marzio
Published: May 2017

Reaction between EuCl3 and the ligand 1,3-di(thien-2-yl)propane-1,3-dione (L) leads to luminescent coordination compounds [EuL3(EtOH)2] (1), [EuL2(i-PrOH)4]Cl (2) and [EuL3(i-PrOH)2] (3), isolated as single crystals in high yield (70%–95%). The Eu/β-diketonate ratio is tuned from 1:2 to 1:3 through the variation of the alcoholic solvent (ethanol and isopropanol) or the base (pyridine and NaOH). In all compounds, Eu3+ ions are eight-coordinated, and in 2, the molecules are arranged in an H-bond supported supramolecular 1D chain. These compositional and structural differences are reflected also on the absorption and emission properties.
A relook at radiation by a point charge. II
Authors: Gadre Nitin Ramchandra
Published: May 2017

Efforts to suggest a classical model for the hydrogen atom are discouraged by a conclusion, based on the principles of electrodynamics, that an accelerating charged particle necessarily radiates. In this paper, we continue our re-examination of this conclusion. We examine the standard electric field formula and difficulties associated with it, for an accelerating source. Conventionally, the Larmor formula is obtained from the Poynting vector. We obtain this Larmor formula by finding rate of change of potential energy in the given volume. We feel that, in this task, the logic is weak and our assumptions are difficult to justify. We have to conclude that the statement, radiation makes classical circular orbits unstable is difficult to justify theoretically. Then circular orbits with all radii, with matching velocities, should be allowed classically. We try to give some justification for Bohr postulates, then only certain radii will be allowed resulting in discrete energy states. We conclude that, for radiation study, it is advisable to calculate change in total energy of the system instead of following a theorem-based approach. We require complete and well defined systems to evolve a classical picture, which makes it desirable to study a simple two-particle system of hydrogen atom.
Interacting dark energy models in f(T) gravity
Authors: Khurshudyan M. , Myrzakulov R. , Khurshudyan As.
Published: May 2017

The accelerated expansion of the large-scale universe can be explained in various ways. There are various modifications, and each of them makes an attempt to give its own explanation of the physics behind it. It is well known that modern cosmology is full of various phenomenological assumptions to obtain comprehensive results comparable with observational data. General Relativity is the main theory of gravity and proposed modifications compared to it, giving a hope to find explanations of phenomenological assumptions. f(T) theory of gravity is one of the options. In this paper, we will consider a particular example of f(T) theory and study the effects of various interactions on a cosmological model. Phase space analysis is used to have a qualitative understanding of the late-time behavior of the suggested cosmological models. During our study, we found that among phenomenological models suggested in this paper, we have cosmological models being in good agreement with the observational data. Moreover, study of the behavior of the deceleration parameter q showed a phase transition from a decelerated expanding universe to the accelerated (recent) expanding universe. On the other hand, for the parameters of the models giving the mentioned phase transition, we have estimated the present day values of statefinder parameters (r, s).
Mechanical and thermodynamic properties of AlX (X = N, P, As) compounds
Authors: Xu Lifang , Bu Wei
Published: May 2017

The Vickers hardness of various AlX (X = N, P, As) compound polymorphs were calculated with the bond resistance model. Thermodynamic properties, such as vibrational entropy, constant volume specific heat and Debye temperatures, were calculated using phonon dispersion relations and phonon density of states (DOS). The calculated values are in good agreement with the previous experimental and theoretical data. For the same structure of AlX (X = N, P, As) compounds, their hardness and Debye temperatures both decrease with the X atomic number. The wurtzite (wz) and zincblende (zb) structures of the same compounds AlX share an almost identical hardness, but have different Debye temperatures. The difference between wz and zb structures increases as the atomic number of X increases. The thermodynamic properties reveal that the constant volume specific heat approaches the Dulong–Petit rule at high temperatures.
Spatial coherence resonance and spatial pattern transition induced by the decrease of inhibitory effect in a neuronal network
Authors: Tao Ye , Gu Huaguang , Ding Xueli
Published: May 2017

Spiral waves were observed in the biological experiment on rat brain cortex with the application of carbachol and bicuculline which can block inhibitory coupling from interneurons to pyramidal neurons. To simulate the experimental spiral waves, a two-dimensional neuronal network composed of pyramidal neurons and inhibitory interneurons was built. By decreasing the percentage of active inhibitory interneurons, the random-like spatial patterns change to spiral waves and to random-like spatial patterns or nearly synchronous behaviors. The spiral waves appear at a low percentage of inhibitory interneurons, which matches the experimental condition that inhibitory couplings of the interneurons were blocked. The spiral waves exhibit a higher order or signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) characterized by spatial structure function than both random-like spatial patterns and nearly synchronous behaviors, which shows that changes of the percentage of active inhibitory interneurons can induce spatial coherence resonance-like behaviors. In addition, the relationship between the coherence degree and the spatial structures of the spiral waves is identified. The results not only present a possible and reasonable interpretation to the spiral waves observed in the biological experiment on the brain cortex with disinhibition, but also reveal that the spiral waves exhibit more ordered degree in spatial patterns.
The effects of welded joint characteristics on its properties in HDPE thermal fusion welding
Authors: Dai Hongbin , Peng Jun
Published: May 2017

In this paper, PE100 pipes with the diameter of 200 mm and the thickness of 11.9 mm were used as material. The welded joints were obtained in different welding pressures with the optimal welding temperature of 220[Formula: see text]C. Reheating process on the welded joints with the temperature of 130[Formula: see text]C was carried out. The joints exhibited X-type, and the cause of X-type joints was discussed. The temperature field in the forming process of welded joints was measured, and tensile and bending tests on welded joints were carried out. The fracture surface of welded joints was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and crystallinity calculation was taken by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The mechanism of X-type weld profile effects on welded joints properties was analyzed. It was concluded that the mechanical properties of welded joints decrease with the reduced X distance between lines.
SYNTHESIS AND ETHANOL SENSING CHARACTERISTICS OF NANOSTRUCTURED MoO3:Zn THIN FILMS
Authors: MOUSAVI-ZADEH SEYYED HAMID , RAHMANI MOHAMMAD BAGHER
Published: May 2017

In this research, gas sensing characteristics of undoped and zinc-doped molybdenum trioxide (MoO[Formula: see text] thin films toward ethanol vapor were investigated. Thin films were deposited using low cost and simple technique of spray pyrolysis on top of glass substrates at 450[Formula: see text]C. Effects of addition of Zn, as an impurity, on the surface morphology, structural and optical properties of MoO3 thin films were also investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern analysis showed that by increasing the amount of impurity, crystal structure changes from orthorhombic [Formula: see text]-MoO3 to two new phases of monoclinic [Formula: see text]-ZnMoO4 and Mo5O[Formula: see text] reduced phase. Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) images showed that by increasing the amount of impurity up to 5[Formula: see text]at.%, grain sizes decrease to about 60[Formula: see text]nm. UV–Vis analysis showed that by increasing the percentage of impurity the band gap of thin films increases. Gas sensing properties of samples were studied at three temperatures of 200[Formula: see text]C, 250[Formula: see text]C and 300[Formula: see text]C toward different concentrations of ethanol vapor. Gas response of 5[Formula: see text]at.% Zn-doped MoO3 thin film reached the maximum value of [Formula: see text]% when it exposed to 1000[Formula: see text]ppm of ethanol vapor. Response and recovery times for all samples were reported at different temperatures.
Connectivity and planarity of g-noncommuting graph of finite groups
Authors: Nasiri Mahboube , Erfanian Ahmad , Mohammadian Abbas
Published: May 2017

Let [Formula: see text] be a finite non-abelian group and [Formula: see text] be its center. For a fixed nonidentity element [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text], the [Formula: see text]-noncommuting graph of [Formula: see text], denoted by [Formula: see text], is a simple undirected graph in which its vertices are [Formula: see text] and two distinct vertices [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are adjacent if [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we discuss about connectivity of [Formula: see text] and determine all finite non-abelian groups such that their [Formula: see text]-noncommuting graphs are 1-planar, toroidal or projective.
Structure, vibrations and relative stability of 1-methylcyclobutene and methylenecyclobutane tautomers using DFT and CCSD methods
Authors: Alomari Mohammed I. , Ababneh Taher S. , Alshboul Tareq M. A.
Published: May 2017

In this study, geometrical optimizations, infrared spectroscopic analysis and relative stabilities of 1-methylcyclobutene and methylenecyclobutane tautomers were investigated by utilizing high-level ab initio and DFT calculations. The thermodynamic data showed that 1-methylcyclobutene is the more stable isomer with enthalpy [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]kcal/mol and Gibbs energy [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]kcal/mol lower than that for methylenecyclobutane at the M06/aug-cc-PVTZ level of theory. These results are in good agreement with the available experimental data. Additionally, the geometrical parameters and vibrational frequencies agree well with the recorded results in literatures.
Solution Effect on Synthesis of Polyaniline/rGO Composite for High-Performance Supercapacitor
Authors: Tao Yuxi , Liu Ziang , Song Xue-Zhi , Bao Ming , Tan Zhenquan
Published: May 2017

Polyaniline (PANI)/graphene composites have been widely investigated as supercapacitor electrode materials. However, the electrochemical performances of PANI/graphene in laboratory were much lower than the theoretical value and still far from the actual needs because the microstructure of the composite was not very uniform and contained defects such as cracks, voids and dislocation. In this paper, PANI/graphene composites were synthesized by a modified method that involved a continuous in situ polymerization-hydrothermal reduction process. The chemical microenvironment of aniline was modified with the introduction of isopropanol as an adjusting agent for PANI polymerization, resulting in the fine microstructures of PANI/graphene composites and the better effect of [Formula: see text]-doping. The specific capacitance of these PANI/rGO composites is enhanced from 537.9 to 729.4[Formula: see text]F g1 in comparison with the control sample synthesized in aqueous solution. The cycle stability is also improved from 45.1% to 68.1% capacitance retention after 1000 charge–discharge cycles at a current density of 10[Formula: see text]A g[Formula: see text]. These intriguing features make it a suitable method to improve the electrochemical performance of PANI/graphene composites for electrochemical supercapacitors.
Estimating friction in normal fault systems of the Basin and Range province and examining its geological context
Authors: Richardson Carson A. , Seedorff Eric
Published: May 2017

The life cycle of a fault following initiation is governed in part by the reshear criterion, of which rock surface friction is the critical factor limiting the dip of a fault at its death. Using structural restorations where the initial and final dips of faults can be ascertained, the coefficient of rock surface friction is calculated for well-characterized extended locales (
n
=20) in the Basin and Range province, many with multiple fault generations (
n
=34). The calculated values exhibit a considerably wider range (0.19–1.33) than previously reported. The amount of tilting associated with each fault generation is compared with eight characteristics (mean slip magnitude, tilting per unit of slip, fault spacing, percentage extension, absence or presence and composition of magmatism, duration of extension, timing of extension and strain rate). No statistically strong correlation was found with any of the examined characteristics, although tentative linkages were noted with percentage extension, strain rate and mean slip magnitude from weighted regression analysis. These results are consistent with normal faults behaving as non-linear systems, with friction being an emergent property.
Antarctic subglacial groundwater: a concept paper on its measurement and potential influence on ice flow
Authors: Siegert Martin J. , Kulessa Bernd , Bougamont Marion , Christoffersen Poul , Key Kerry , Andersen Kristoffer R. , Booth Adam D. , Smith Andrew M.
Published: May 2017

Is groundwater abundant in Antarctica and does it modulate ice flow? Answering this question matters because ice streams flow by gliding over a wet substrate of till. Water fed to ice-stream beds thus influences ice-sheet dynamics and, potentially, sea-level rise. It is recognized that both till and the sedimentary basins from which it originates are porous and could host a reservoir of mobile groundwater that interacts with the subglacial interfacial system. According to recent numerical modelling, up to half of all water available for basal lubrication, and time lags between hydrological forcing and ice-sheet response as long as millennia, may have been overlooked in models of ice flow. Here, we review evidence in support of Antarctic groundwater and propose how it can be measured to ascertain the extent to which it modulates ice flow. We present new seismoelectric soundings of subglacial till, and magnetotelluric and transient electromagnetic forward models of subglacial groundwater reservoirs. We demonstrate that multifaceted and integrated geophysical datasets can detect, delineate and quantify the groundwater contents of subglacial sedimentary basins and, potentially, monitor groundwater exchange rates between subglacial till layers. The paper thus describes a new area of glaciological investigation and how it should progress in future.
Experimental cardiac radiation exposure induces ventricular diastolic dysfunction with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Saiki Hirofumi , Moulay Gilles , Guenzel Adam J. , Liu Weibin , Decklever Teresa D. , Classic Kelly L. , Pham Linh , Chen Horng H. , Burnett John C. , Russell Stephen J. , Redfield Margaret M.
Published: May 2017

Breast cancer radiotherapy increases the risk of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Cardiomyocytes are highly radioresistant, but radiation specifically affects coronary microvascular endothelial cells, with subsequent microvascular inflammation and rarefaction. The effects of radiation on left ventricular (LV) diastolic function are poorly characterized. We hypothesized that cardiac radiation exposure may result in diastolic dysfunction without reduced EF. Global cardiac expression of the sodium-iodide symporter (NIS) was induced by cardiotropic gene (adeno-associated virus serotype 9) delivery to 5-wk-old rats. SPECT/CT (125I) measurement of cardiac iodine uptake allowed calculation of the 131I doses needed to deliver 10- or 20-Gy cardiac radiation at 10 wk of age. Radiated (Rad; 10 or 20 Gy) and control rats were studied at 30 wk of age. Body weight, blood pressure, and heart rate were similar in control and Rad rats. Compared with control rats, Rad rats had impaired exercise capacity, increased LV diastolic stiffness, impaired LV relaxation, and elevated filling pressures but similar LV volume, EF, end-systolic elastance, preload recruitable stroke work, and peak +dP/d t. Pathology revealed reduced microvascular density, mild concentric cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, and increased LV fibrosis in Rad rats compared with control rats. In the Rad myocardium, oxidative stress was increased and in vivo PKG activity was decreased. Experimental cardiac radiation exposure resulted in diastolic dysfunction without reduced EF. These data provide insight into the association between cardiac radiation exposure and HFpEF risk and lend further support for the importance of inflammation-related coronary microvascular compromise in HFpEF.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Cardiac radiation exposure during radiotherapy increases the risk of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. In a novel rodent model, cardiac radiation exposure resulted in coronary microvascular rarefaction, oxidative stress, impaired PKG signaling, myocardial fibrosis, mild cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, left ventricular diastolic dysfunction, and elevated left ventricular filling pressures despite preserved ejection fraction.
Mechanical behavior and matrisome gene expression in the aneurysm-prone thoracic aorta of newborn lysyl oxidase knockout mice
Authors: Staiculescu Marius Catalin , Kim Jungsil , Mecham Robert P. , Wagenseil Jessica E.
Published: May 2017

Mutations in lysyl oxidase (LOX) are associated with thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (TAAD). Mice that do not express Lox ( Lox−/−) die soon after birth and have 60% and 40% reductions in elastin- and collagen-specific cross-links, respectively. LOX inactivation could also change the expression of secreted factors, the structural matrix, and matrix-associated proteins that constitute the aortic matrisome. We hypothesized that absence of Lox will change the mechanical behavior of the aortic wall because of reduced elastin and collagen cross-linking and alter the expression levels of matrisome and smooth muscle cell (SMC) genes in a vascular location-specific manner. Using fluorescence microscopy, pressure myography, and gene set enrichment analysis, we visualized the microarchitecture, quantified the mechanical behavior, and examined matrisome and SMC gene expression from ascending aortas (AAs) and descending aortas (DAs) from newborn Lox+/+ and Lox−/− mice. Even though Lox−/− AAs and DAs have fragmented elastic laminae and disorganized SMCs, the unloaded outer diameter and wall thickness were similar to Lox+/+ AAs and DAs. Lox−/− AAs and DAs have altered opening angles, circumferential stresses, and circumferential stretch ratios; however, only Lox−/− AAs have increased pressurized diameters and tangent moduli. Gene set enrichment analysis showed upregulation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) regulator gene set in Lox−/− AAs and DAs as well as differential expression of secreted factors, collagens, ECM-affiliated proteins, ECM glycoproteins, and SMC cell cycle gene sets that depend on the Lox genotype and vascular location. These results provide insights into the local chemomechanical changes induced by Lox inactivation that may be important for TAAD pathogenesis.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Absence of lysyl oxidase ( Lox) causes thoracic aortic aneurysms. The aortic mechanical behavior of Lox−/− mice is consistent with reduced elastin and collagen cross-linking but demonstrates vascular location-specific differences. Lox−/− aortas show upregulation of matrix remodeling genes and location-specific differential expression of other matrix and smooth muscle cell gene sets.
Transcriptional networks in rodent models support a role for gut-brain communication in neurogenic hypertension: a review of the evidence
Authors: Zubcevic Jasenka , Baker Ashley , Martyniuk Christopher J.
Published: May 2017

Hypertension (HTN) is the most prevalent condition observed in primary health care. Hypertension shows complex etiology, and neuroinflammation, overactive sympathetic drive, and the microbiome are each associated with the disease. To obtain mechanistic perspective into neurogenic HTN, we first constructed a framework for transcriptional regulators of the disease using the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database. This approach yielded a core group of 178 transcripts that are prevalent in studies of HTN, including leptin and neuropeptide Y. We then conducted a meta-analysis for transcriptome data generated in brain tissue from HTN studies. Eight expression studies were reanalyzed, in which transcriptomics was conducted in hypertensive animal models [spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and high blood pressure (BPH/2J) Schlager mice] (140 microarrays). Most strikingly, a gut-brain connection was a dominant theme in both rodent models of HTN. The transcriptomic data in the rat CNS converged on processes that included gastrointestinal motility and appetite, among others. In the mouse model, pathways converged on gastrointestinal transit. Thus, our data provide a powerful review of current molecular evidence of the interplay between gut and brain in HTN. Analyses of meta-genome data also suggested that transcriptome networks related to natriuresis, thermoregulation, reproduction (lactation and pregnancy), and vasoconstriction were associated to HTN, supporting physiological observations in independent studies by others. Lastly, we present novel transcriptome networks that may contribute to a neurogenic origin of HTN. Using this framework, new therapeutic targets can be proposed and investigated in treatment strategies.
A new species of sea squirt Rhopalaea bilobata (Ascidiacea: Diazonidae) from the Andaman Islands, India
Authors: Mondal Jhimli , Raghunathan C. , Mondal Tamal
Published: May 2017

Rhopalaea bilobata, a new species of the class Ascidiacea, under the family Diazonidae has been described from the Andaman Islands of Andaman & Nicobar, India.  The species was found in sandy bottoms, reef areas and artificial structures at a depth range of 10–40 m.  This species has bilobed anal border, six lobed branchial and atrial siphons, transparent thorax with pigmented spots at the anus, between the two siphons and at the anterior end of endostyle, and ramified basal test.  The species is closely related to R. idoneta, R. macrothorax and R. tenuis in several sets of anatomical and morphological features.
Butterfly fauna of Baghmundi, Purulia, West Bengal, India: a preliminary checklist
Authors: Samanta Supriya , Das Dipanwita , Mandal Sudipta
Published: May 2017

The butterfly diversity of Baghmundi, Purulia District (22.600–23.500N & 85.750–86.650E), West Bengal, India was studied from January 2014 to December 2015 with photographic documentation.  A total of 54 butterfly species were recorded representing 39 genera in six families.  Nymphalidae was the most dominant family with 46.3% of the total species.  As this is the first report of butterfly diversity from this region, the present study may help in planning conservation strategies and generate awareness among the local people and government authorities to save wildlife and their habitats.
Stomach contents of the Indian Pangolin Manis crassicaudata (Mammalia: Pholidota: Manidae) in tropical forests of southern India
Authors: Ashokkumar Mohanarangan , Valsarajan Dipika , Suresh M. Arjun , Kaimal Anuraj R. , Chandy George
Published: May 2017

The Indian Pangolin, Manis crassicaudata is a nocturnal, elusive, sparsely distributed, poorly studied and rapidly declining species.  The stomach contents of a female Indian Pangolin were analysed from a road kill specimen collected from the South Wayanad Forest Division in Kerala on September 2013 and confirms that they are myrmecophagous, i.e., feeding primarily on ants and ant eggs.  The morphometry of the head and position of the eye in the head was used to identify the ant species consumed, which was found to be exclusively Leptogenys sp. with head size of one to two millimeter.  Since the abundance of the ant species was not available, the preference could not be determined.  Rather, our preliminary survey in the area revealed that Leptogenys sp. is the most abundant in the tropical moist deciduous forest of Wayanad, Kerala.  The soft parts of the ant body were digested while only the heads remained in the stomach content.  Similarly, only hard egg shells could be identified from the content.  The major proportion of the stomach content was grit (50%), both in frequency and biomass.  Ant head constituted higher biomass (41.3%) and lower frequency (22.5%) whereas ant egg shells were found in higher number (29%) with a low biomass (1.8%).  The present observation gives insight into ant species selection and biomass contribution.  Though the biomass of ant head was higher, its contribution to the Indian Pangolin nutrient intake is unknown. Further research is needed to better understand the diet of the Indian Pangolin.