bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The strategies to reduce iron deficiency in blood donors randomized trial: design, enrolment and early retention
Authors: Bialkowski W. , Bryant B. J. , Schlumpf K. S. , Wright D. J. , Birch R. , Kiss J. E. , D'Andrea P. , Cable R. G. , Spencer B. R. , Vij V. , Mast A. E.
Published: December 2014

Background and Objectives

Repeated blood donation produces iron deficiency. Changes in dietary iron intake do not prevent donation‐induced iron deficiency. Prolonging the interdonation interval or using oral iron supplements can mitigate donation‐induced iron deficiency. The most effective operational methods for reducing iron deficiency in donors are unknown.

Materials and Methods

‘Strategies To Reduce Iron Deficiency’ (STRIDE) was a two‐year, randomized, placebo‐controlled study in blood donors. 692 donors were randomized into one of two educational groups or one of three interventional groups. Donors randomized to educational groups either received letters thanking them for donating, or, suggesting iron supplements or delayed donation if they had low ferritin. Donors randomized to interventional groups either received placebo, 19‐mg or 38‐mg iron pills.

Results

Iron deficient erythropoiesis was present in 52·7% of males and 74·6% of females at enrolment. Adverse events within 60 days of enrolment were primarily mild gastrointestinal symptoms (64%). The incidence of de‐enrolment within 60 days was more common in the interventional groups than in the educational groups (P = 0·002), but not more common in those receiving iron than placebo (P = 0·68).

Conclusion

The prevalence of iron deficient erythropoiesis in donors enrolled in the STRIDE study is comparable to previously described cohorts of regular blood donors. De‐enrolment within 60 days was higher for donors receiving tablets, although no more common in donors receiving iron than placebo.
Lewis histo‐blood group system phenotyping and genotyping reveal divergence in the association of Le(a−b−) phenotype and type 1 diabetes
Authors: Previato M. , Borim M. P. , Liberatore R. D. R. , Pires A. C. , Dias M. A. F. , Brandão de Mattos C. C. , de Mattos L. C.
Published: December 2014

Background and Objectives

The red blood cell Le(a−b−) phenotype was proposed as risk factor for type 1 diabetes, but contradictory results were published elsewhere. This study re‐examined the potential association between Lewis histo‐blood group system and type 1 diabetes.

Material and Methods

Patients and controls of both sexes, Caucasians and non‐Caucasians, matched by sex, geographical origin and ethnicity were evaluated. The red blood cell Lewis phenotypes were identified by gel column agglutination and also inferred from the FUT2 and FUT3 genotyping.

Results

The Le(a−b−) phenotype was prevalent in patients with type 1 diabetes, and the Le(a−b+) phenotype was prevalent in controls when both were determined by gel columns agglutination. No differences were observed in the frequencies of the Le(a−b−) phenotype inferred from the FUT2 and FUT3 genotyping between patients and controls.

Conclusions

The Lewis red blood cell phenotyping and genotyping reveal divergence in the association of Le(a−b−) phenotype and type 1 diabetes.
Loss of the ability to generate large burst‐forming unit‐like megakaryocytic colonies from thawed cord blood in semisolid cultures after short term suspension culture
Authors: Eskola M. , Bäckman S. , Möttönen S. , Kekomäki R.
Published: December 2014

Background and Objectives

Total colony‐forming cells from thawed cord blood units (CBUs) include megakaryocytic colony‐forming units (CFU‐Mks), which survive the freezing process. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether different megakaryocytic progenitors from unseparated CBUs survive the freezing process and a short‐term liquid culture.

Materials and Methods

Thawed samples of CBUs were cultured in liquid medium. During the cultures, serial samples were drawn to assess the growth of different megakaryocytic progenitors in a semisolid collagen medium with identical cytokines as in the liquid medium. Megakaryocytic cells were detected using immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry.

Results

In suspension culture, the megakaryocytic progenitors almost completely lost the ability to generate large (burst‐forming unit‐like, BFU‐like) megakaryocytic colonies in semisolid cultures (large colonies, median count per chamber d0: 7·25 vs. d7: 1·5; P < 0·0001), whereas the number of small colonies (median count per chamber d0: 7·25 vs. d7: 16·0; P = 0·0505) peaked at day seven. Further 7‐day culture in suspension resulted in the decline of small colonies as well (d7: 16·0 vs. d14: 5·75; P = 0·0088). Total CFU‐Mk count declined from 23·3 (range 12·5–34·0) at d0 to 7·25 (range 1·0–13·5) at d14 (P < 0·0001).

Conclusion

Immediately post‐thaw, CBUs possess an ability to generate large BFU‐like megakaryocytic colonies, whereas the colonies were not detectable in most CBUs in semisolid culture after a short suspension culture. Small CFU‐Mks were observed throughout the cultures. It may be that the BFU‐Mk colonies matured and acquired CFU‐Mk behaviour.
Application of Polynomial Chaos Expansion to Tolerance Analysis and Synthesis in Compliant Assemblies Subject to Loading
Authors: Mazur Maciej , Leary Martin , Subic Aleksandar
Published: December 2014

Statistical tolerance analysis and synthesis in assemblies subject to loading are of significant importance to optimized manufacturing. Modeling the effects of loads on mechanical assemblies in tolerance analysis typically requires the use of numerical CAE simulations. The associated uncertainty quantification (UQ) methods used for estimating yield in tolerance analysis must subsequently accommodate implicit response functions, and techniques such as Monte Carlo (MC) sampling are typically applied due to their robustness; however, these methods are computationally expensive. A variety of UQ methods have been proposed with potentially higher efficiency than MC methods. These offer the potential to make tolerance analysis and synthesis of assemblies under loading practically feasible. This work reports on the practical application of polynomial chaos expansion (PCE) for UQ in tolerance analysis. A process integration and design optimization (PIDO) tool based, computer aided tolerancing (CAT) platform is developed for multi-objective, tolerance synthesis in assemblies subject to loading. The process integration, design of experiments (DOE), and statistical data analysis capabilities of PIDO tools are combined with highly efficient UQ methods for optimization of tolerances to maximize assembly yield while minimizing cost. A practical case study is presented which demonstrates that the application of PCE based UQ to tolerance analysis can significantly reduce computation time while accurately estimating yield of compliant assemblies subject to loading.
Targeted Energy Transfer Under Harmonic Forcing With a Vibro-Impact Nonlinear Energy Sink: Analytical and Experimental Developments
Authors: Gourc Etienne , Michon Guilhem , Seguy Sébastien , Berlioz Alain
Published: December 2014

Recently, it has been demonstrated that a vibro-impact type nonlinear energy sink (VI-NES) can be used efficiently to mitigate vibration of a linear oscillator (LO) under transient loading. The objective of this paper is to investigate theoretically and experimentally the potential of a VI-NES to mitigate vibrations of an LO subjected to a harmonic excitation (nevertheless, the presentation of an optimal VI-NES is beyond the scope of this paper). Due to the small mass ratio between the LO and the flying mass of the NES, the obtained equations of motion are analyzed using the method of multiple scales in the case of 1:1 resonance. It is shown that in addition to periodic response, system with VI-NES can exhibit strongly modulated response (SMR). Experimentally, the whole system is embedded on an electrodynamic shaker. The VI-NES is realized with a ball which is free to move in a cavity with a predesigned gap. The mass of the ball is less than 1% of the mass of the LO. The experiment confirms the existence of periodic and SMR regimes. A good agreement between theoretical and experimental results is observed.
High Strain Rate Behavior of Graphene Reinforced Polyurethane Composites
Authors: Khanna Sanjeev K. , Phan Ha T. T.
Published: December 2014

A compressive split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) was used to investigate the dynamic mechanical behavior of graphene (GR) reinforced polyurethane (PU) composites (GR/PU) at high strain rates ranging from approximately 1500 s−1 to 5000 s−1. Four types of GR/PU composites with different GR contents: 0.25% GR, 0.5% GR, 0.75% GR, and 1% GR were prepared by the solution mixing method and divided into two groups of unheated and postheated specimens. Experimental results show that the GR/PU composite is a strong strain rate dependent material, especially in the high strain rate regime of 3000 s−1–5000 s−1. The dynamic mechanical properties of GR/PU composite in terms of plateau stress, peak stress, and peak load carrying capacity are better than that of pristine PU at most of the applied strain rates. Among the four different GR concentrations used, the 0.5 wt.%-GR specimen shows the highest peak stress, and the 1 wt.% GR specimen has the highest plateau stress; while no significant change in peak strain with changing GR weight fraction was observed. Compared to unheated specimens, the plateau stress, peak stress, and peak strain of postheated specimens are significantly higher.
Is My Model Good Enough? Best Practices for Verification and Validation of Musculoskeletal Models and Simulations of Movement
Authors: Hicks Jennifer L. , Uchida Thomas K. , Seth Ajay , Rajagopal Apoorva , Delp Scott L.
Published: December 2014

Computational modeling and simulation of neuromusculoskeletal (NMS) systems enables researchers and clinicians to study the complex dynamics underlying human and animal movement. NMS models use equations derived from physical laws and biology to help solve challenging real-world problems, from designing prosthetics that maximize running speed to developing exoskeletal devices that enable walking after a stroke. NMS modeling and simulation has proliferated in the biomechanics research community over the past 25 years, but the lack of verification and validation standards remains a major barrier to wider adoption and impact. The goal of this paper is to establish practical guidelines for verification and validation of NMS models and simulations that researchers, clinicians, reviewers, and others can adopt to evaluate the accuracy and credibility of modeling studies. In particular, we review a general process for verification and validation applied to NMS models and simulations, including careful formulation of a research question and methods, traditional verification and validation steps, and documentation and sharing of results for use and testing by other researchers. Modeling the NMS system and simulating its motion involves methods to represent neural control, musculoskeletal geometry, muscle–tendon dynamics, contact forces, and multibody dynamics. For each of these components, we review modeling choices and software verification guidelines; discuss variability, errors, uncertainty, and sensitivity relationships; and provide recommendations for verification and validation by comparing experimental data and testing robustness. We present a series of case studies to illustrate key principles. In closing, we discuss challenges the community must overcome to ensure that modeling and simulation are successfully used to solve the broad spectrum of problems that limit human mobility.
Automated Generation of Linkage Loop Equations for Planar One Degree-of-Freedom Linkages, Demonstrated up to 8-Bar
Authors: Parrish Brian E. , Michael McCarthy J. , Eppstein David
Published: December 2014

In this paper, we present an algorithm that automatically creates the linkage loop equations for planar one degree of freedom, 1DOF, linkages of any topology with revolute joints, demonstrated up to 8 bar. The algorithm derives the linkage loop equations from the linkage adjacency graph by establishing a rooted cycle basis through a single common edge. Divergent and convergent loops are identified and used to establish the fixed angles of the ternary and higher links. Results demonstrate the automated generation of the linkage loop equations for the nine unique 6-bar linkages with ground-connected inputs that can be constructed from the five distinct 6-bar mechanisms, Watt I–II and Stephenson I–III. Results also automatically produced the loop equations for all 153 unique linkages with a ground-connected input that can be constructed from the 71 distinct 8-bar mechanisms. The resulting loop equations enable the automatic derivation of the Dixon determinant for linkage kinematic analysis of the position of every possible assembly configuration. The loop equations also enable the automatic derivation of the Jacobian for singularity evaluation and tracking of a particular assembly configuration over the desired range of input angles. The methodology provides the foundation for the automated configuration analysis of every topology and every assembly configuration of 1DOF linkages with revolute joints up to 8 bar. The methodology also provides a foundation for automated configuration analysis of 10-bar and higher linkages.
Characterization of ZnO film grown on polycarbonate by atomic layer deposition at low temperature
Authors: Lee Gyeong Beom , Han Gwon Deok , Shim Joon Hyung , Choi Byoung-Ho
Published: December 2014

ZnO is an attractive material for use in various technological products such as phosphors, gas sensors, and transparent conductors. Recently, aluminum-doped zinc oxide has received attention as a potential replacement for indium tin oxide, which is one of the transparent conductive oxides used in flat panel displays, organic light-emitting diodes, and organic solar cells. In this study, the characteristics of ZnO films deposited on polycarbonate (PC) substrates by atomic layer deposition (ALD) are investigated for various process temperatures. The growth mechanism of these films was investigated at low process temperatures using x-ray diffraction (XRD) and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). XRD and XPS were used to determine the preferred orientation and chemical composition of the films, respectively. Furthermore, the difference of the deposition mechanisms on an amorphous organic material, i.e., PC substrate and an inorganic material such as silicon was discussed from the viewpoint of the diffusion and deposition of precursors. The structure of the films was also investigated by chemical analysis in order to determine the effect of growth temperature on the films deposited by ALD.
The influence of distance between microbubbles on the fluid flow produced during ultrasound exposure
Authors: Schutt Carolyn E. , Ibsen Stuart D. , Thrift William , Esener Sadik C.
Published: December 2014

The collapse dynamics of lipid monolayer-coated microbubbles in the clinically-relevant size range under 6 μm in diameter have not been studied directly due to their small size obscuring the collapse visualization. This study investigates the influence of inter-microbubble distance on the shape of lipid debris clouds created by the collapse of the microbubble destroying the microbubble lipid monolayer. The shape was highly influenced by the fluid motion that occurred as the microbubbles collapsed. It was observed that at inter-microbubble distances smaller than 37 μm the microbubbles began to interact with one another resulting in distorted and ellipsoid-shaped debris clouds. At inter-microbubble distances less than 10 μm, significantly elongated debris clouds were observed that extended out from the original microbubble location in a single direction. These distortions show a significant distance-dependent interaction between microbubbles. It was observed that microbubbles in physical contact with one another behaved in the same manner as separate microbubbles less than 10 μm apart creating significantly elongated debris clouds. It can be hypothesized that small inter-microbubble distances influence the microbubble to collapse asymmetrically resulting in the creation of fluid jets that contribute to the formation of debris fields that are elongated in a single direction.
Reliability of the input admittance of bowed-string instruments measured by the hammer method
Authors: Zhang Ailin , Woodhouse Jim
Published: December 2014

The input admittance at the bridge, measured by hammer testing, is often regarded as the most useful and convenient measurement of the vibrational behavior of a bowed string instrument. However, this method has been questioned, due especially to differences between human bowing and hammer impact. The goal of the research presented here is to investigate the reliability and accuracy of this classic hammer method. Experimental studies were carried out on cellos, with three different driving conditions and three different boundary conditions. Results suggest that there is nothing fundamentally different about the hammer method, compared to other kinds of excitation. The third series of experiments offers an opportunity to explore the difference between the input admittance measuring from one bridge corner to another and that of single strings. The classic measurement is found to give a reasonable approximation to that of all four strings. Some possible differences between the hammer method and normal bowing and implications of the acoustical results are also discussed.
A method to determine the acoustic reflection and absorption coefficients of porous media by using modal dispersion in a waveguide
Authors: Prisutova Jevgenija , Horoshenkov Kirill , Groby Jean-Philippe , Brouard Bruno
Published: December 2014

The measurement of acoustic material characteristics using a standard impedance tube method is generally limited to the plane wave regime below the tube cut-on frequency. This implies that the size of the tube and, consequently, the size of the material specimen must remain smaller than a half of the wavelength. This paper presents a method that enables the extension of the frequency range beyond the plane wave regime by at least a factor of 3, so that the size of the material specimen can be much larger than the wavelength. The proposed method is based on measuring of the sound pressure at different axial locations and applying the spatial Fourier transform. A normal mode decomposition approach is used together with an optimization algorithm to minimize the discrepancy between the measured and predicted sound pressure spectra. This allows the frequency and angle dependent reflection and absorption coefficients of the material specimen to be calculated in an extended frequency range. The method has been tested successfully on samples of melamine foam and wood fiber. The measured data are in close agreement with the predictions by the equivalent fluid model for the acoustical properties of porous media.
Platelet-Rich Plasma Compared With Other Common Injection Therapies in the Treatment of Chronic Lateral Epicondylitis
Authors: Rodik Tristan , McDermott Brendon
Published: December 2014

Clinical Scenario:

Lateral epicondylitis (LE) is a relatively common pathology capable of producing chronic debilitation in a variety of patients. A newer treatment for orthopedic conditions is platelet-rich plasma (PrP) local injection.

Focused Clinical Question:

Is PrP a more appropriate injection therapy for LE than other common injections such as corticosteroid or whole blood?

Summary of Key Findings:

Four studies were included: 1 randomized controlled trial (RCT), 2 double-blind RCTs, and 1 cohort study. Two studies involved comparisons of PrP injection to corticosteroid injection. One of the studies involved a 2-y follow-up while another involved a 1-y follow-up. Another study involved the comparison of PrP injection with whole-blood injection with a 6-mo follow-up. The final study included a PrP-injection group and control group. The 2 studies involving PrP vs corticosteroid injections with 2-y and 1-y follow-ups both favored PrP over corticosteroid injection in terms of pain reduction and function increases. The third study favored PrP injections over whole-blood injections at 6 mo regarding pain reduction. All studies demonstrated significant improvements with PrP over comparison injections or no injection.

Clinical Bottom Line:

PrP injections provide more favorable pain and function outcomes than whole blood and corticosteroid injections for 1–2 y after injection.

Strength of Recommendation:

Consistent findings from RCTs suggest level 1b evidence in support of PrP injection as a treatment for LE.
Immediate Effects of Core-Stability Exercises and Clinical Massage on Dynamic-Balance Performance of Patients With Chronic Specific Low Back Pain
Authors: Trampas Athanasios , Mpeneka Anastasia , Malliou Vivian , Godolias George , Vlachakis Periklis
Published: December 2014

Context:

Previous studies showed improved dynamic-balance (DB) performance after core-stability (CS) exercises in populations with chronic low back pain. Although clinical massage plus exercise is likely to better enhance analgesia than exercise alone, its efficacy on balance remains unclear.

Objective:

To evaluate the immediate effects of CS exercises plus myofascial trigger-point (MTrP) therapy in comparison with CS exercises alone on DB performance, pressure-pain threshold (PPT), and cross-sectional area of active MTrPs in patients with clinical instability of the lumbar spine and chronic myofascial pain syndrome.

Design:

Randomized, assessor-blind, test–retest.

Setting:

University research laboratory.

Patients:

10 physically active adults (5 men, 5 women).

Main Outcome Measures:

Single-leg DB performance and side-to-side ratios in 2 planes of motion (frontal, sagittal), as well as PPT and cross-sectional area of active MTrPs, were measured using stabilometry, pressure algometry, and real-time ultrasound scanning, respectively.

Interventions:

The 1st group performed CS exercises alone, whereas the same exercise program was applied in the 2nd group plus cross-fiber friction on active MTrPs (3.5 min/MTrP).

Results:

Within-group statistically and clinically significant differences were observed only for group II in PPT. However, group I also exhibited a large effect size with clinically significant changes from baseline on this outcome. Furthermore, patients in group II clinically improved their balance ratios and differed from group I at posttest in sagittal-plane DB performance of the painful side.

Conclusion:

CS exercises immediately increase the PPT of active MTrPs in physically active adults with clinical instability of the lumbar spine and chronic myofascial pain syndrome. When MTrP therapy is added, side-to-side asymmetries in DB are minimized.
The lunar dynamo
Authors: Weiss Benjamin P. , Tikoo Sonia M.
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND

It is unknown whether the Moon has a fully differentiated and melted structure with a metallic core or retains a partially primordial, unmelted interior. The differentiation history of the Moon is manifested by its record of past magnetism (paleomagnetism). Although the Moon today does not have a global magnetic field, the discovery of remanent magnetization in lunar rocks and in the lunar crust demonstrated that there was a substantial lunar surface field billions of years ago. However, the origin, intensity, and lifetime of this field have been uncertain. As a result, it has been unclear whether this magnetization was produced by a dynamo in the Moon’s advecting metallic core or by fields generated externally to the Moon. Establishing whether the Moon formed a core dynamo would have major implications for understanding its interior structure, thermal history, and mechanism of formation, as well for our understanding of the physics of planetary magnetic field generation.

ADVANCES

A new generation of laboratory magnetic studies of lunar rocks and spacecraft measurements of lunar crustal magnetic fields have produced major advances in our understanding of the evolution of ancient magnetic fields on the Moon. It has now been established that a dynamo magnetic field likely existed on the Moon from at least 4.5 billion to 3.56 billion years ago, with an intensity similar to that at the surface of Earth today. The field then declined by at least an order of magnitude by 3.3 billion years ago. The early epoch of high field intensities may require an exceptionally energetic power source such as mechanical stirring from mantle precession. The extended history of the lunar dynamo appears to demand long-lived power sources such as mantle precession and core crystallization.

OUTLOOK

Measurements of the intensity of the ancient lunar dynamo have shown that it was surprisingly intense and long-lived. The next phase of lunar magnetic exploration will be to obtain more accurate measurements of field paleointensities and to determine when the dynamo initiated and finally disappeared. This will be coupled with the continued development of magnetohydrodynamic models for characterizing mechanical and other unusual dynamo mechanisms and further investigations into the thermal, structural, and geodynamical history of the lunar core and mantle. The eventual availability of absolutely oriented samples and in situ spacecraft measurements of bedrock should enable the first measurements of the paleo-orientation of lunar magnetic fields. Such directional data could determine the lunar field’s geometry and reversal frequency, as well as constrain ancient local and global-scale tectonic events.
Two-dimensional Fermi surfaces in Kondo insulator SmB
6
Authors: Li G. , Xiang Z. , Yu F. , Asaba T. , Lawson B. , Cai P. , Tinsman C. , Berkley A. , Wolgast S. , Eo Y. S. , Kim Dae-Jeong , Kurdak C. , Allen J. W. , Sun K. , Chen X. H. , Wang Y. Y. , Fisk Z. , Li Lu
Published: December 2014

In the Kondo insulator samarium hexaboride (SmB
6
), strong correlation and band hybridization lead to an insulating gap and a diverging resistance at low temperature. The resistance divergence ends at about 3 kelvin, a behavior that may arise from surface conductance. We used torque magnetometry to resolve the Fermi surface topology in this material. The observed oscillation patterns reveal two Fermi surfaces on the (100) surface plane and one Fermi surface on the (101) surface plane. The measured Fermi surface cross sections scale as the inverse cosine function of the magnetic field tilt angles, which demonstrates the two-dimensional nature of the conducting electronic states of SmB
6
.
Subsurface cation vacancy stabilization of the magnetite (001) surface
Authors: Bliem R. , McDermott E. , Ferstl P. , Setvin M. , Gamba O. , Pavelec J. , Schneider M. A. , Schmid M. , Diebold U. , Blaha P. , Hammer L. , Parkinson G. S.
Published: December 2014

Iron oxides play an increasingly prominent role in heterogeneous catalysis, hydrogen production, spintronics, and drug delivery. The surface or material interface can be performance-limiting in these applications, so it is vital to determine accurate atomic-scale structures for iron oxides and understand why they form. Using a combination of quantitative low-energy electron diffraction, scanning tunneling microscopy, and density functional theory calculations, we show that an ordered array of subsurface iron vacancies and interstitials underlies the well-known (

2

×

2

)R45° reconstruction of Fe
3
O
4
(001). This hitherto unobserved stabilization mechanism occurs because the iron oxides prefer to redistribute cations in the lattice in response to oxidizing or reducing environments. Many other metal oxides also achieve stoichiometry variation in this way, so such surface structures are likely commonplace.
Researchers struggle to gauge risks of childhood anesthesia
Authors: Servick Kelly
Published: December 2014

Neurological warning signals in animals drive push for new studies and public outreach.
Stability at the surface
Authors: Chambers Scott A.
Published: December 2014

The structure beneath a surface is a key factor in its electronic and chemical function

[Also see Report by

Bliem
et al.

]
The Inability of Wild-Type Rabies Virus To Activate Dendritic Cells Is Dependent on the Glycoprotein and Correlates with Its Low Level of theDe Novo-Synthesized Leader RNA
Authors: Yang Yang , Huang Ying , Gnanadurai Clement W. , Cao Shengbo , Liu Xueqin , Cui Min , Fu Zhen F.
Published: December 2014

Dendritic cells (DCs) are the most efficient antigen-presenting cells, playing a key role in the adaptive immune responses to viral infections. Our studies demonstrate that wild-type (wt) rabies virus (RABV) does not activate DCs. Adoptive transfer of DCs primed with wt RABV did not activate DCs, stimulate virus neutralizing antibodies (VNA), or protect recipients against challenge. However, adoptive transfer of DCs primed with laboratory-attenuated RABV resulted in DC activation, production of VNA, and protection against challenge.In vitrostudies with recombinant RABV (laboratory-attenuated RABV expressing the glycoprotein or the phosphoprotein from wt RABV) demonstrate that DC activation is dependent on the glycoprotein and involves the IPS-1 pathway. Furthermore, binding to and entry into DCs by wt RABV is severely blocked, and the copy number ofde novo-synthesized leader RNA was two logs lower in DCs infected with the wt than in DCs treated with laboratory-attenuated RABV. However, transient transfection of DCs with synthesized leader RNA from either wt or attenuated RABV is capable of activating DCs in a dose-dependent manner. Thus, the inability of wt RABV to activate DCs correlates with its low level of thede novo-synthesized leader RNA.

IMPORTANCERabies remains a public health threat, with more than 55,000 fatalities each year around the world. Since DCs play a key role in the adaptive immune responses to viral infections, we investigated the ability of rabies virus (RABV) to activate DCs. It was found that the adoptive transfer of DCs primed with wt RABV did not activate DCs, stimulate VNA, or protect mice against lethal challenge. However, laboratory-attenuated RABV mediates the activation of DCs via the IPS-1 pathway and is glycoprotein dependent. We further show that wt RABV evades DC-mediated immune activation by inefficient binding/entry into DCs and as a result of a reduced level ofde novo-synthesized leader RNA. These findings may have important implications in the development of efficient rabies vaccines.
Analysis of Human T-Cell Leukemia Virus Type 1 Particles by Using Cryo-Electron Tomography
Authors: Cao Sheng , Maldonado José O. , Grigsby Iwen F. , Mansky Louis M. , Zhang Wei
Published: December 2014

The particle structure of human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is poorly characterized. Here, we have used cryo-electron tomography to analyze HTLV-1 particle morphology. Particles produced from MT-2 cells were polymorphic, roughly spherical, and varied in size. Capsid cores, when present, were typically poorly defined polyhedral structures with at least one curved region contacting the inner face of the viral membrane. Most of the particles observed lacked a defined capsid core, which likely impacts HTLV-1 particle infectivity.
Uterine lipoleiomyoma
Authors: Tyagi Niharika , Tyagi Raman , Griffin Yvette
Published: December 2014

We report a case of a patient who was found to have a uterine lipoleiomyoma on ultrasound and MRI, which was later confirmed with histological evidence. Uterine lipoleiomyomas are rare benign tumours that are often misdiagnosed on imaging, leading to unnecessary invasive procedures. Increased awareness of the tumour and its characteristics on imaging can aid future preoperative diagnosis.
Influence of observers, threshold values, and measurement methods on volumetric analysis of cerebral aneurysms with three-dimensional rotational angiography
Authors: Cho Won-Sang , Shin Dong Hoon , Lee Joongyub , Lee Seung Jin
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Exact measurements of cerebral aneurysms are important in terms of their treatment. However, there is no definitive way to estimate the exact volume of an aneurysm. Our aim was to compare aneurysm volume measured under different conditions: threshold values, observers, and measurement methods.

Methods

40 aneurysms and 7 phantom models were included in the study. Three-dimensional rotational angiography was used, and volumes were compared based on the following factors: two methods (two-dimensional formula calculation and three-dimensional software measurement); three observers; and three threshold values for imaging. In addition, in the phantom models, measured volumes were compared with real volumes. The consistency of the volume measurements under different conditions was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

The consistency of the measured volumes was excellent in both the patient aneurysms (ICC >0.98) and phantom models (ICC >0.95), irrespective of the influencing factors. Median volume differences were small for observers, threshold values, and methods. When the measured and real volumes of the phantom models were compared, the software measurement achieved the highest reproducibility for real volumes compared with the formula calculation (ICC=0.86–0.93 vs 0.71–0.80).

Conclusions

Measurement of aneurysm volume showed high agreement within each influencing factor, such as methods, observers, and threshold values.
Improvement of High Voltage Cyclic Performance by Novel Binder for High Energy Lithium Ion Battery Application
Authors: Kaneko Mayumi , Sugimoto T , Takahashi N. , Kurashima Y , Tada M , Wakizaka Y
Published: December 2014

In this study, we report the effect of PVdF for cycle fading at high cut-off voltage and structural change of active material after the cycle test. From cyclic voltammograms of PVdF on the LiCoO2 thin film, redox currents gradually decreased and redox voltage shifted. The chemical composition of electrolyte was determined by gas chromatography (GC) analysis after the cycle test. It was found that a decomposition product of solvent in electrolyte increased after the cycle test. The amount of dissolved Co was increased after cycle test as determined by ICP measurement of the anode electrode. The degradation at the surface of LiCoO2 was observed by TEM spectroscopy. The structure of PVdF binder in the electrode before/after cycle was investigated using solid-state 19F MAS nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR).
Li Storage Properties of (1-x-y)Li[Li1/3Mn2/3]O2-xLiFeO2-yLiNiO2 Solid Solution Cathode Materials
Authors: Li Jiangang , Wang Lei , Chen Jiuhua , He Xiangming
Published: December 2014

Uniform solid solution of (1-x-y)Li[Li1/3Mn2/3]O2-xLiFeO2-yLiNiO2 (x+y≤0.5) were prepared by citric acid assisted sol-gel process including three-step of “preparation of wet gel—formation of spray-dried gel—annealing at high temperature”, and the effects of composition on the Li-storage properties of as-prepared samples were investigated by XRD, XPS and charge-discharge tests. The results indicate that all samples prepared at 650 °C ~800 °C show pure hexagonal phase (or monoclinic phase). Obvious cooperative effects are observed for the samples with suitable amount of composited LiNiO2 and LiFeO2 (x+y≈0.3~0.4), which can present high capacity of >210 mAhg-1, good structural stability and cycling performance. In view of capacity, cycling performance and cost, the samples with x+y≈0.3~0.4 and x/y=1.6~3.0 are considered to be more promising new cobalt-free cathode materials with high capacity of more than 240 mAhg-1.
Searching for the Best Electrolyte Composition for the C/Li2MnSiO4 Based Battery System
Authors: Swietoslawski Michal , Molenda Marcin , Esen Ekin , Dziembaj Roman
Published: December 2014

Stability of nine electrolyte solutions, prepared using the most commercially preferred salts and electrolytes, towards C/Li2MnSiO4 nanocomposite cathode material was investigated in this research. The cathode material was synthesized via a one step sol-gel method and coated with a specific amount (30 wt.%) of conductive carbon layer after the primary carbon is removed and the material is reduced. Properties of the C/Li2MnSiO4 nanocomposite were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Electrochemical behavior of electrolyte solution-cathode material compositions were examined by the charge/discharge tests (CDT) using electrochemical Li/Li+/(C/Li2MnSiO4) cells. As a conclusion it is observed that LiPF6 (EC:DMC) is the most suitable one among the examined electrolyte solutions for C/Li2MnSiO4 systems.
Effect of Anions on Lithium Ion Conduction in Poly(ethylene carbonate)-based Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Tominaga Yoichi , Yamazaki Kenta , Nanthana Vannasa
Published: December 2014

Poly(ethylene carbonate)-based polymer electrolytes with lithium salts (LiX; X=TFSI, ClO4, BF4 and PF6) were prepared and measured their lithium transference numbers (t
+) for the comparison between different anion radius and salt concentrations. The LiTFSI electrolytes showed highest t
+ and Li-ion conductivities of all samples at 80 oC, and these values increased with increasing salt concentration. From the results of FT-IR measurements for all concentrated samples, it was revealed that the changes of a band fraction divided at around 1720 cm-1 for interacted carbonyl groups with Li+ (C=O --- Li+) strongly relate to the mobility of Li+.
In-Situ Acoustic Emission Study of Sn Anode in Li Ion Battery
Authors: Fukushima Takehiro , Kato Syutaro , Kuwata Naoaki , Kawamura Junichi
Published: December 2014

Acoustic emission (AE) technique is nondestructive and sensitive method by detecting supersonic elastic waves to evaluate degradation of Li ion batteries. The AE technique was applied to a half cell (Li/ LiPF6 (EC: DMC)/ Sn or SnO) during charge and discharge cycles. Solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) is formed by electrolyte decomposition with gas generation due to catalytic effect of Sn. The low frequency (20 ~ 100 kHz) AE signals were detected and attributed to the gas generation due to electrolyte decomposition, which was confirmed by in-situ microscope observation. In our previous research, high frequency (100 ~ 300 kHz) AE signals were detected due to crack　formation during deintercalation process by using SnO thin film electrode. The AE signals of different origins were distinguished by specific frequencies of the AE signals. The AE technique is useful as a diagnostic tool for Li ion batteries.
Hydrogen explosion risk in mining locomotive unit
Authors: Polnik Bartosz Polnik
Published: December 2014

Application of battery powered mining locomotives with lead-acid cells is associated with secretion of hydrogen under charging. Modern systems of powering and control of these machines allow electrical braking with simultaneous energy recuperation. This however, increases the efficiency of operation while, increasing the risk of dangerous hydrogen concentration. The paper presents and discusses the results of both tests for real objects in mine and the results of relevant simulation analysis. The results were confronted with the formal applicable requirements. In this work also attempt to determine the correlation between the quality of electrical energy provided to the battery and the intensity of electrolytic gas emission.
Thermal Study of the Thermophotovoltaic Emitter
Authors: Maxa Jiri , Vyroubal Petr , Šimonová Lucie
Published: December 2014

Thermophotovoltaic (TPV) belongs to the third generation of photovoltaics. This technique works on the principle of an effect of use as much of the radiation spectrum for optimal system operation. These systems have great potential application in commerce, military and aerospace industry. This article deals with thermal simulation, which includes the radiation model, of the thermophotovoltaic emitter and its influence on the whole system.
The Changes of Surface Texture Parameters of the Duplex Systems: Nitrided Layer – Coating at CoCrMo Alloy
Authors: Dobrocký David , Klanica Ondrej , Onderka Filip
Published: December 2014

CoCrMo alloys have been used for biomedical implants for a number of years. One of the important parameters which influences durability of the coating and thus whole implant are parameters of surface texture, namely Ra and Rt, which are determined by standards ISO 7206-2:2011 and ISO 7207-2:2011. Three duplex surface systems were applied to improve mechanical properties. The combination of plasma nitriding and subsequent deposited thin films of the nACo3®, DLC and ZrN were used as a duplex treatment. Plasma nitriding was implemented under these conditions: duration time 10 hours, the ratio of gases H2:N2=3:1, process temperature 450 °C, 500 °C and 550 °C. The surface texture parameters were measured on the polished surface of the CoCrMo alloy at first, then on the polished surface after plasma nitridation process and finally on the polished surface of deposited coating. It has been demonstrated that deposition of the selected coatings on the nitride surface influences the surface texture parameters Ra and Rt.
The Effect of Electrodeposited PANI on Corrosion Behavior of 316 Stainless Steel Coated by CVD Grown MWCNTs under PEMFC Bipolar Plate Working Condition
Authors: Hashempour Mazdak , Sharma Surbhi , Gonzalez Daniel , Vicenzo Antonello , Bestetti Massimiliano
Published: December 2014

Polyaniline (PANI) electrodeposition on bare and carbon nanotube (CNT) coated 316 SS was carried out using a cyclic voltammetry (CV) electropolymerization method in diluted H2SO4 media containing aniline monomer. CNTs were grown in a thermal CVD reactor on 316 SS either by direct growth using ethylene precursor or by continuous feeding of an external catalyst, ferrocene, dissolved in toluene as the carbon precursor. Corrosion behavior of the coated materials was assessed by potentiodynamic and potentiostatic methods in an attempt to simulate the working conditions of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) bipolar plates. While a thick PANI coating could not provide a protective barrier to either bare or CNT coated 316 SS samples, a sensible improvement in corrosion resistance was revealed in the presence of a thin PANI layer. However, the protective capability of the PANI thin film was still inadequate for the purpose of providing reasonable corrosion resistance to the material under simulated PEMFC conditions, due to severe deterioration of CNT coated 316 SS caused by the initial carbon treatment.
Marine omega-3 fatty acids prevent myocardial insulin resistance and metabolic remodeling as induced experimentally by high insulin exposure
Authors: Franekova Veronika , Angin Yeliz , Hoebers Nicole T. H. , Coumans Will A. , Simons Peter J. , Glatz Jan F. C. , Luiken Joost J. F. P. , Larsen Terje S.
Published: December 2014

Insulin resistance is an important risk factor for the development of several cardiac pathologies, thus advocating strategies for restoring insulin sensitivity of the heart in these conditions. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs), mainly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, C20:5n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6n-3), have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity in insulin-sensitive tissues, but their direct effect on insulin signaling and metabolic parameters in the myocardium has not been reported previously. The aim of this study was therefore to examine the ability of EPA and DHA to prevent insulin resistance in isolated rat cardiomyocytes. Primary rat cardiomyocytes were made insulin resistant by 48 h incubation in high insulin (HI) medium. Parallel incubations were supplemented by 200 μM EPA or DHA. Addition of EPA or DHA to the medium prevented the induction of insulin resistance in cardiomyocytes by preserving the phosphorylation state of key proteins in the insulin signaling cascade and by preventing persistent relocation of fatty acid transporter CD36 to the sarcolemma. Only cardiomyocytes incubated in the presence of EPA, however, exhibited improvements in glucose and fatty acid uptake and cell shortening. We conclude that ω-3 PUFAs protect metabolic and functional properties of cardiomyocytes subjected to insulin resistance-evoking conditions.
The inward rectifier potassium channel Kir2.1 is expressed in mouse neutrophils from bone marrow and liver
Authors: Masia Ricard , Krause Daniela S. , Yellen Gary
Published: December 2014

Neutrophils are phagocytic cells that play a critical role in innate immunity by destroying bacterial pathogens. Channels belonging to the inward rectifier potassium channel subfamily 2 (Kir2 channels) have been described in other phagocytes (monocytes/macrophages and eosinophils) and in hematopoietic precursors of phagocytes. Their physiological function in these cells remains unclear, but some evidence suggests a role in growth factor-dependent proliferation and development. Expression of functional Kir2 channels has not been definitively demonstrated in mammalian neutrophils. Here, we show by RT-PCR that neutrophils from mouse bone marrow and liver express mRNA for the Kir2 subunit Kir2.1 but not for other subunits (Kir2.2, Kir2.3, and Kir2.4). In electrophysiological experiments, resting (unstimulated) neutrophils from mouse bone marrow and liver exhibit a constitutively active, external K+-dependent, strong inwardly rectifying current that constitutes the dominant current. The reversal potential is dependent on the external K+ concentration in a Nernstian fashion, as expected for a K+-selective current. The current is not altered by changes in external or internal pH, and it is blocked by Ba2+, Cs+, and the Kir2-selective inhibitor ML133. The single-channel conductance is in agreement with previously reported values for Kir2.1 channels. These properties are characteristic of homomeric Kir2.1 channels. Current density in short-term cultures of bone marrow neutrophils is decreased in the absence of growth factors that are important for neutrophil proliferation [granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) and stem cell factor (SCF)]. These results demonstrate that mouse neutrophils express functional Kir2.1 channels and suggest that these channels may be important for neutrophil function, possibly in a growth factor-dependent manner.
Computations underlying the visuomotor transformation for smooth pursuit eye movements
Authors: Murdison T. Scott , Leclercq Guillaume , Lefèvre Philippe , Blohm Gunnar
Published: December 2014

Smooth pursuit eye movements are driven by retinal motion and enable us to view moving targets with high acuity. Complicating the generation of these movements is the fact that different eye and head rotations can produce different retinal stimuli but giving rise to identical smooth pursuit trajectories. However, because our eyes accurately pursue targets regardless of eye and head orientation (Blohm G, Lefèvre P. J Neurophysiol 104: 2103–2115, 2010), the brain must somehow take these signals into account. To learn about the neural mechanisms potentially underlying this visual-to-motor transformation, we trained a physiologically inspired neural network model to combine two-dimensional (2D) retinal motion signals with three-dimensional (3D) eye and head orientation and velocity signals to generate a spatially correct 3D pursuit command. We then simulated conditions of 1) head roll-induced ocular counterroll, 2) oblique gaze-induced retinal rotations, 3) eccentric gazes (invoking the half-angle rule), and 4) optokinetic nystagmus to investigate how units in the intermediate layers of the network accounted for different 3D constraints. Simultaneously, we simulated electrophysiological recordings (visual and motor tunings) and microstimulation experiments to quantify the reference frames of signals at each processing stage. We found a gradual retinal-to-intermediate-to-spatial feedforward transformation through the hidden layers. Our model is the first to describe the general 3D transformation for smooth pursuit mediated by eye- and head-dependent gain modulation. Based on several testable experimental predictions, our model provides a mechanism by which the brain could perform the 3D visuomotor transformation for smooth pursuit.