bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Relationship between Endurance and Strength Training in Power Sports
Authors: Rohleva Mariana
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this research work is to track down the level of relation between strength and endurance in training exercises of handball athletes. The most successful ratio has been established during work with two groups of 10 players each, all of whom are university students. They were trained, respectively, according to the general training methodology, on the one hand, and a programme, developed by us, on the other.The object of our research is the effectiveness of the different in volume and intensity training work over the level of the identified physical qualities - strength and endurance. The groups are tested at the beginning and at the end of a two-month experimental period, during which 24 training sessions have been performed with the application of:1. A control run test - 4 km distance - at individual intensity of 85% and a pulse frequency of 145-155 b/min. The intensity is calculated on the basis of the best result, accomplished by the player. The pulse frequency is measured with a field micro-coordinator Seka, Sportronic - 250 and an analytical record, TYP, 2D, Syntron, Seka Software, Version 1.3, England.2. A strength test consisting of 5 sessions of eight repeats - semi-squats with bar - 40% of the maximum individual capability for 35 seconds.It has been established that the combination between workouts for strength and ednurance in a ratio of 2:1 respectively, gives a positive influence on both qualities. A training focused on endurance has a less significant effect on the strength of the athlete, and reversely, strength has a greater effect on endurance. It is recommended that in power sports the relative element of endurance in training not exceed 25-30%, and in sports with endurance as a leading quality - training for strength be in the margin of 20-30%.
Bioavailability of immobilized epidermal growth factor: Covalent versus noncovalent grafting
Authors: Riahi Nesrine , Murschel Frederic , Lerouge Sophie , Durocher Yves , Henry Olivier , De Crescenzo Gregory
Published: March 2017

In an effort to rationalize and optimize an antiapoptotic coating combining chondroitin sulfate (CS) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) for vascular applications, the authors here report the comparison of two grafting strategies aiming to display EGF in an oriented fashion on CS. For that purpose, the authors produced, purified, and characterized a chimeric protein corresponding to EGF that was N-terminally fused to a cysteine and a coil peptide. The chimera was covalently immobilized via its free thiol group or captured via coiled–coil interactions at the surface of a biosensor or on a chondroitin sulfate coating in multiwell plates, mimicking the coating that was previously developed by them for stent-graft surfaces. The interactions of grafted EGF with the soluble domain of its receptor or the impact of grafted EGF upon vascular smooth muscle survival in proapoptotic conditions indicated that the coiled–coil based tethering was the best approach to display EGF. These results, combined to direct enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay measurements, indicated that the coiled–coil tethering approach allowed increasing the amount of bioavailable EGF when compared to covalent coupling, rather than the total amount of grafted EGF, while using much lower concentrations of tagged EGF during incubation.
A method for measuring magnetic fields in sunspots using Zeeman-broadened absorption lines
Authors: Oostra Benjamin
Published: March 2017

We present measurements of magnetic fields in several sunspots using high-resolution spectra obtained with the ESPARTACO spectrograph at the Universidad de los Andes, with the aim to explore experimental possibilities for students. Because the Zeeman line splitting is smaller than the line width, our work only observes broadened absorption lines. This broadening, however, can be measured and suitably modeled, giving realistic quantitative results.
The profile of an oil-water interface in a spin-up rotating cylindrical vessel
Authors: Yan Zixiang , Sun Lu , Xiao Jinghua , Lan Yueheng
Published: March 2017

The dynamics of a two-layered rotating liquid at low angular velocity in a cylindrical container is explored, both experimentally and theoretically, using an oil-water system. In the two-layered liquid, a transient concave down paraboloid interface, containing undulations, is observed before the final, stable concave up paraboloid interface develops. A simple yet effective model is developed to explain the observed profile dynamics, in which the predicted maximal height of the paraboloid agrees well with experimental measurements over a fairly large range of rotation speeds.
Measurement of the second-order coherence of pseudothermal light
Authors: Kuusela Tom A.
Published: March 2017

We describe photon statistics experiments using pseudothermal light that can be performed in an undergraduate physics laboratory. We examine the light properties in terms of a second-order coherence function, as determined either by measuring the light intensity as a function of time or via coincidence analysis of a pair of photon detectors. We determine the coherence time and intensity distribution of the pseudothermal light source that exhibits either Gaussian or non-Gaussian statistics as a function of their optical parameters, and then compare the results with theoretical predictions. The simple photodiode method can be used for the qualitative analysis of the coherence time, but more accurate measurements are achieved using the coincidence method.
Developing a project-based computational physics course grounded in expert practice
Authors: Burke Christopher J. , Atherton Timothy J.
Published: March 2017

We describe a project-based computational physics course developed using a backwards course design approach. From an initial competency-based model of problem solving in computational physics, we interviewed faculty who use these tools in their own research to determine indicators of expert practice. From these, a rubric was formulated that enabled us to design a course intended to allow students to learn these skills. We also report an initial implementation of the course and, by having the interviewees regrade student work, show that students acquired many of the expert practices identified.
Numerical study of a confocal ultrasonic setup for cavitation creation
Authors: Lafond Maxime , Prieur Fabrice , Chavrier Françoise , Mestas Jean-Louis , Lafon Cyril
Published: March 2017

Acoustic cavitation has found a wide range of applications in the last few decades. For potential applications involving cavitation, the acoustic characteristics of a confocal ultrasonic setup are studied: two high-intensity focused ultrasound transducers are mounted so that their focal points overlap. A mathematical simulator is developed that takes into account nonlinear propagation, absorption, and diffraction. Each one of these physical effects is solved in the frequency domain for successive planes. Comparing the confocal setup with equivalent single transducer setups, it is shown that, with the confocal configuration, nonlinear distortion of the waveform is reduced, resulting in a greater peak rarefactional pressure and a lower peak positive pressure. Furthermore, additional features are investigated for confocal configurations such as a greater spatial stability for the focal point, which can be maintained while increasing the pressure level, and a focal region consisting of interference acting as an acoustic trap.
Acoustic characterization of stethoscopes using auscultation sounds as test signals
Authors: Nowak Lukasz J. , Nowak Karolina M.
Published: March 2017

The present study introduces a detailed methodology which can be applied for objective evaluation and comparison of the acoustic parameters of medical stethoscopes using auscultation sounds as test signals. The described approach allows taking into account the acoustic coupling between the body of an auscultated patient and the chest piece of a stethoscope. Information obtained from additional, synchronized electrocardiography measurements is used to extract short, specific fragments of recordings, defined as acoustic events. Analysis of the spectral characteristics of many acoustic events allows us to compare the acoustic properties of various stethoscopes and to estimate the measurement uncertainty. The exemplary results of the comparative evaluation of acoustic properties of bell and diaphragm-type chest pieces of a single stethoscope are presented. The results show that the frequency characteristics of the signals obtained using both examined chest pieces under the conditions of the performed examinations are very similar.
Neuropathic pain promotes adaptive changes in gene expression in brain networks involved in stress and depression
Authors: Descalzi Giannina , Mitsi Vasiliki , Purushothaman Immanuel , Gaspari Sevasti , Avrampou Kleopatra , Loh Yong-Hwee Eddie , Shen Li , Zachariou Venetia
Published: March 2017

Common changes in signaling pathway–associated gene expression may explain why chronic pain or stress can lead to depression.
Papers of note in
Science
355
(6330)
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: March 2017

This week’s articles include several reviews on targeting signaling pathways to treat cancer, as well as research articles that highlight proteins that drive circadian clocks; how bacteriophages affect the virulence of pathogenic bacteria; a mobile transcription factor in plants; a secreted nucleoside that affects metabolism; and the effects of protein aggregation in aging yeast cells.
Autophagy and vitamin D
Authors: Mushegian Alexandra A.
Published: March 2017

Vitamin D receptor represses basal autophagy in breast tissue, which is derepressed by vitamin D, slowing cancer progression.
Experimental Models of Short Courses of Liposomal Amphotericin B for Induction Therapy for Cryptococcal Meningitis
Authors: Lestner Jodi , McEntee Laura , Johnson Adam , Livermore Joanne , Whalley Sarah , Schwartz Julie , Perfect John R. , Harrison Thomas , Hope William
Published: March 2017

Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis is a rapidly lethal infection in immunocompromised patients. Induction regimens are usually administered for 2 weeks. The shortest effective period of induction therapy with liposomal amphotericin B (LAMB) is unknown. The pharmacodynamics of LAMB were studied in murine and rabbit models of cryptococcal meningoencephalitis. The concentrations of LAMB in the plasma and brains of mice were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Histopathological changes were determined. The penetration of LAMB into the brain was determined by immunohistochemistry using an antibody directed to amphotericin B. A dose-dependent decline in fungal burden was observed in the brains of mice, with near-maximal efficacy achieved with LAMB at 10 to 20 mg/kg/day. The terminal elimination half-life in the brain was 133 h. The pharmacodynamics of a single dose of 20 mg/kg was the same as that of 20 mg/kg/day administered for 2 weeks. Changes in quantitative counts were reflected by histopathological changes in the brain. Three doses of LAMB at 5 mg/kg/day in rabbits were required to achieve fungicidal activity in cerebrospinal fluid (cumulative area under the concentration-time curve, 2,500 mg · h/liter). Amphotericin B was visible in the intra- and perivascular spaces, the leptomeninges, and the choroid plexus. The prolonged mean residence time of amphotericin B in the brain suggests that abbreviated induction regimens of LAMB are possible for cryptococcal meningoencephalitis.
3-Hydroxypyrimidine-2,4-Diones as Novel Hepatitis B Virus Antivirals Targeting the Viral Ribonuclease H
Authors: Huber Andrew D. , Michailidis Eleftherios , Tang Jing , Puray-Chavez Maritza N. , Boftsi Maria , Wolf Jennifer J. , Boschert Kelsey N. , Sheridan Megan A. , Leslie Maxwell D. , Kirby Karen A. , Singh Kamalendra , Mitsuya Hiroaki , Parniak Michael A. , Wang Zhengqiang , Sarafianos Stefan G.
Published: March 2017

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) RNase H (RNH) is an appealing therapeutic target due to its essential role in viral replication. RNH inhibitors (RNHIs) could help to more effectively control HBV infections. Here, we report 3-hydroxypyrimidine-2,4-diones as novel HBV RNHIs with antiviral activity. We synthesized and tested 52 analogs and found 4 that inhibit HBV RNH activity in infected cells. Importantly, 2 of these compounds inhibited HBV replication in the low micromolar range.
Impact of Mutations at Arg220 and Thr237 in PER-2 β-Lactamase on Conformation, Activity, and Susceptibility to Inhibitors
Authors: Ruggiero Melina , Curto Lucrecia , Brunetti Florencia , Sauvage Eric , Galleni Moreno , Power Pablo , Gutkind Gabriel
Published: March 2017

PER-2 accounts for up to 10% of oxyimino-cephalosporin resistance in
Klebsiella pneumoniae
and
Escherichia coli
in Argentina and hydrolyzes both cefotaxime and ceftazidime with high catalytic efficiencies (
k
cat
/

K
m

). Through crystallographic analyses, we recently proposed the existence of a hydrogen bond network connecting Ser70-Gln69-oxyanion water-Thr237-Arg220 that might be important for the activity and inhibition of the enzyme. Mutations at Arg244 in most class A β-lactamases (such as TEM and SHV) reduce susceptibility to mechanism-based inactivators, and Arg220 in PER β-lactamases is equivalent to Arg244. Alterations in the hydrogen bond network of the active site in PER-2, through modifications in key residues such as Arg220 and (to a much lesser extent) Thr237, dramatically impact the overall susceptibility to inactivation, with up to ∼300- and 500-fold reductions in the rate constant of inactivation (
k
inact
)/

K
i

values for clavulanic acid and tazobactam, respectively. Hydrolysis on cephalosporins and aztreonam was also affected, although to different extents compared to with wild-type PER-2; for cefepime, only an Arg220Gly mutation resulted in a strong reduction in the catalytic efficiency. Mutations at Arg220 entail modifications in the catalytic activity of PER-2 and probably local perturbations in the protein, but not global conformational changes. Therefore, the apparent structural stability of the mutants suggests that these enzymes could be possibly selected
in vivo
.
Library of Seleno-Compounds as Novel Agents against Leishmania Species
Authors: Martín-Montes Álvaro , Plano Daniel , Martín-Escolano Rubén , Alcolea Verónica , Díaz Marta , Pérez-Silanes Silvia , Espuelas Socorro , Moreno Esther , Marín Clotilde , Gutiérrez-Sánchez Ramón , Sanmartín Carmen , Sánchez-Moreno Manuel
Published: March 2017

The
in vitro
leishmanicidal activities of a series of 48 recently synthesized selenium derivatives against
Leishmania infantum
and
Leishmania braziliensis
parasites were tested using promastigotes and intracellular amastigote forms. The cytotoxicity of the tested compounds for J774.2 macrophage cells was also measured in order to establish their selectivity. Six of the tested compounds (compounds 8, 10, 11, 15, 45, and 48) showed selectivity indexes higher than those of the reference drug, meglumine antimonate (Glucantime), for both
Leishmania
species; in the case of
L. braziliensis
, compound 20 was also remarkably selective. Moreover, data on infection rates and amastigote numbers per macrophage showed that compounds 8, 10, 11, 15, 45, and 48 were the most active against both
Leishmania
species studied. The observed changes in the excretion product profile of parasites treated with these six compounds were also consistent with substantial cytoplasmic alterations. On the other hand, the most active compounds were potent inhibitors of Fe superoxide dismutase (Fe-SOD) in the two parasite species considered, whereas their impact on human CuZn-SOD was low. The high activity, low toxicity, stability, low cost of the starting materials, and straightforward synthesis make these compounds appropriate molecules for the development of affordable antileishmanicidal agents.
In Vitro
Study of Antimicrobial Percutaneous Nephrostomy Catheters for Prevention of Renal Infections
Authors: Vargas-Cruz Nylev , Reitzel Ruth A. , Rosenblatt Joel , Jamal Mohamed , Szvalb Ariel D. , Chaftari Anne-Marie , Hachem Ray , Raad Issam
Published: March 2017

Percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN) catheters are the primary method for draining ureters obstructed by malignancy and preventing a decline of renal function. However, PCN catheter-related infections, such as pyelonephritis and urosepsis, remain a significant concern. Currently, no antimicrobial PCN catheters are available for preventing infection complications. Vascular catheters impregnated with minocycline-rifampin (M/R) and M/R with chlorhexidine coating (M/R plus CHD) have previously demonstrated antimicrobial activity. Therefore, in this study, we examined whether these combinations could be applied to PCN catheters and effectively inhibit biofilm formation by common uropathogens. An
in vitro
biofilm colonization model was used to assess the antimicrobial efficacy of M/R and M/R-plus-CHD PCN catheters against nine common multidrug-resistant Gram-positive and Gram-negative uropathogens as well as
Candida glabrata
and
Candida albicans
. Experimental catheters were also assessed for durability of antimicrobial activity for up 3 weeks. PCN catheters coated with M/R plus CHD completely inhibited biofilm formation for up to 3 weeks for all the organisms tested. The reduction in colonization compared to uncoated PCN catheters was significant for all Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and fungal organisms (
P
< 0.05). M/R-plus-CHD PCN catheters also produced significant reductions in biofilm colonization relative to M/R PCN catheters for
Enterobacter
spp.,
Escherichia coli
,
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
, vancomycin-resistant enterococci,
C. glabrata
, and
C. albicans
(
P
< 0.05). M/R-plus-CHD PCN catheters proved to be highly efficacious in preventing biofilm colonization when exposed to multidrug-resistant pathogens common in PCN catheter-associated pyelonephritis. M/R-plus-CHD PCN catheters warrant evaluation in a clinical setting to assess their ability to prevent clinically relevant nephrostomy infections.
Amoebicidal Activity of Caffeine and Maslinic Acid by the Induction of Programmed Cell Death in Acanthamoeba
Authors: Martín-Navarro Carmen M. , López-Arencibia Atteneri , Sifaoui Ines , Reyes-Batlle María , Fouque Emilie , Osuna Antonio , Valladares Basilio , Piñero José E. , Héchard Yann , Maciver Sutherland K. , Lorenzo-Morales Jacob
Published: March 2017

Free-living amoebae of the genus
Acanthamoeba
are the causal agents of a sight-threatening ulceration of the cornea called
Acanthamoeba
keratitis, as well as the rare but usually fatal disease granulomatous amoebic encephalitis. Although there are many therapeutic options for the treatment of
Acanthamoeba
infections, they are generally lengthy and/or have limited efficacy. For the best clinical outcome, treatments should target both the trophozoite and the cyst stages, as cysts are known to confer resistance to treatment. In this study, we document the activities of caffeine and maslinic acid against both the trophozoite and the cyst stages of three clinical strains of
Acanthamoeba
. These drugs were chosen because they are reported to inhibit glycogen phosphorylase, which is required for encystation. Maslinic acid is also reported to be an inhibitor of extracellular proteases, which may be relevant since the protease activities of
Acanthamoeba
species are correlated with their pathogenicity. We also provide evidence for the first time that both drugs exert their anti-amoebal effects through programmed cell death.
Early Intracellular Trafficking of Granulibacter bethesdensis in Human Macrophages
Authors: Chu Jessica , Smelkinson Margery G. , Dorward David W. , Zarember Kol A. , Gallin John I.
Published: March 2017

Granulibacter bethesdensis
is a Gram-negative bacterium that infects patients with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD), a primary immunodeficiency marked by a defect in NOX2, the phagocyte NADPH oxidase. Previous studies have shown that NOX2 is essential for killing of
G. bethesdensis
by neutrophils and monocytes and that the bacteriostatic activity of monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) requires NOX2 and gamma interferon (IFN-γ) pretreatment. To determine whether
G. bethesdensis
evades phagolysosomal killing, a host defense pathway intact in both normal and CGD MDM, or whether it occupies a distinct intracellular niche in CGD MDM, we assessed the trafficking patterns of this organism. We observed colocalization of
G. bethesdensis
with an early endosome antigen 1 (EEA1)-positive compartment, followed by colocalization with lysosome-associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP1)-positive and LysoTracker-positive late phagosomes; these characteristics were similar in both normal and CGD MDM. Despite localization to acidified late phagosomes, viable
G. bethesdensis
cells were recovered from viable MDM in numbers greater than in the initial input up to 6 days after infection.
G. bethesdensis
remains, and in some cases appears to divide, within a membrane-bound compartment for the entire 6-day time course. These findings indicate that this organism resists both oxygen-dependent and oxygen-independent phagolysosomal antimicrobial systems of human macrophages.
Functional Analysis of the Alternative Sigma-28 Factor FliA and Its Anti-Sigma Factor FlgM of the Nonflagellated Legionella Species L. oakridgensis
Authors: Tlapák Hana , Rydzewski Kerstin , Schulz Tino , Weschka Dennis , Schunder Eva , Heuner Klaus
Published: March 2017

Legionella oakridgensis
causes Legionnaires' disease but is known to be less virulent than
Legionella pneumophila
.
L. oakridgensis
is one of the
Legionella
species that is nonflagellated. The genes of the flagellar regulon are absent, except those encoding the alternative sigma-28 factor (FliA) and its anti-sigma-28 factor (FlgM). Similar to
L. oakridgensis
,
Legionella adelaidensis
and
Legionella londiniensis
, located in the same phylogenetic clade, have no flagellar regulon, although both are positive for
fliA
and
flgM
. Here, we investigated the role and function of both genes to better understand the role of FliA, the positive regulator of flagellin expression, in nonflagellated strains. We demonstrated that the FliA gene of
L. oakridgensis
encodes a functional sigma-28 factor that enables the transcription start from the sigma-28-dependent promoter site. The investigations have shown that FliA is necessary for full fitness of
L. oakridgensis
. Interestingly, expression of FliA-dependent genes depends on the growth phase and temperature, as already shown for
L. pneumophila
strains that are flagellated. In addition, we demonstrated that FlgM is a negative regulator of FliA-dependent gene expression. FlgM seems to be degraded in a growth-phase- and temperature-dependent manner, instead of being exported into the medium as reported for most bacteria. The degradation of FlgM leads to an increase of FliA activity.

IMPORTANCE
A less virulent
Legionella
species,
L. oakridgensis
, causes Legionnaires' disease and is known to not have flagella, even though
L. oakridgensis
has the regulator of flagellin expression (FliA). This protein has been shown to be involved in the expression of virulence factors. Thus, the strain was chosen for use in this investigation to search for FliA target genes and to identify putative virulence factors of
L. oakridgensis
. One of the five major target genes of FliA identified here encodes the anti-FliA sigma factor FlgM. Interestingly, in contrast to most homologs in other bacteria, FlgM in
L. oakridgensis
seems not to be transported from the cell so that FliA gets activated. In
L. oakridgensis
, FlgM seems to be degraded by protease activities.
Identification of the Lyso-Form
N
-Acyl Intramolecular Transferase in Low-GC Firmicutes
Authors: Armbruster Krista M. , Meredith Timothy C.
Published: March 2017

Bacterial lipoproteins are embedded in the cell membrane of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, where they serve numerous functions central to cell envelope physiology. Lipoproteins are tethered to the membrane by an
N
-acyl-
S
-(mono/di)-acyl-glyceryl-cysteine anchor that is variously acylated depending on the genus. In several low-GC, Gram-positive firmicutes, a monoacyl-glyceryl-cysteine with an N-terminal fatty acid (known as the lyso form) has been reported, though how it is formed is unknown. Here, through an intergenic complementation rescue assay in
Escherichia coli
, we report the identification of a common orthologous transmembrane protein in both
Enterococcus faecalis
and
Bacillus cereus
that is capable of forming lyso-form lipoproteins. When deleted from the native host, lipoproteins remain diacylated with a free N terminus, as maturation to the
N
-acylated lyso form is abolished. Evidence is presented suggesting that the previously unknown gene product functions through a novel intramolecular transacylation mechanism, transferring a fatty acid from the diacylglycerol moiety to the α-amino group of the lipidated cysteine. As such, the discovered gene has been named
l
ipoprotein
i
ntramolecular
t
ransacylase (
lit
), to differentiate it from the gene for the intermolecular
N
-acyltransferase (
lnt
) involved in triacyl lipoprotein biosynthesis in Gram-negative organisms.

IMPORTANCE
This study identifies a new enzyme, conserved among low-GC, Gram-positive bacteria, that is involved in bacterial lipoprotein biosynthesis and synthesizes lyso-form lipoproteins. Its discovery is an essential first step in determining the physiological role of N-terminal lipoprotein acylation in Gram-positive bacteria and how these modifications impact bacterial cell envelope function.
Misdiagnosing Whipple's disease in the young
Authors: Papakonstantinou Danai , Riste Michael J , Langman Gerald , Moran Ed
Published: March 2017

Whipple's disease is considered an infection of middle-aged white men of European ancestry. Cases are rare and disproportionately associated with occupational exposure to soil or animals. We report the case of a man aged 22 years with no risk factors, erroneously diagnosed with, and treated for, toxoplasmosis on the basis of consistent lymph node histology. The correct diagnosis was delayed by the dramatic symptomatic improvement resulting from this therapy. Whipple's disease should be considered in cases of granulomatous lymphadenopathy of unknown cause, even if the age of the patient does not fit the classic presentation of the disease.
Rheumatic immune-related adverse events of checkpoint therapy for cancer: case series of a new nosological entity
Authors: Calabrese C , Kirchner E , Kontzias A , Velcheti V , Calabrese L H
Published: March 2017

Immunotherapy of cancer with checkpoint inhibitors has been associated with a spectrum of autoimmune and systemic inflammatory reactions known as immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Rheumatic irAEs are infrequently reported and extensively described. Here, we report our experience over an 18-month period with 15 patients evaluated in the rheumatology department for rheumatic irAEs. We identified 13 patients without pre-existing autoimmune disease (AID) who subsequently developed rheumatic irAEs, and two with established AID referred pre-emptively. irAEs encountered included: inflammatory arthritis, sicca syndrome, polymyalgia rheumatica-like symptoms and myositis. All cases required glucocorticoids, and three required a biological agent. Rheumatic irAEs led to temporary or permanent cessation of immunotherapy in all but five patients. One patient with pre-existing AID experienced a flare after starting immunotherapy. Our findings underscore that rheumatic irAEs are complex, at times require additional immunosuppressive therapy, and may influence ongoing immunotherapy regimens for the primary disease. Similar irAEs will be increasingly seen as checkpoint inhibitors adopted as standard of care in the community.
Cambrian acritarchs from the Bourinot belt, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia: age and stratigraphic implications1This article is one of a series of papers published inCJES Special Issue: In honour of Ward Nealeon the theme of Appalachian and Grenvillian geology.
Authors: Palacios Teodoro , Jensen Sören , White Chris E. , Barr Sandra M.
Published: March 2017

We present the first description of organic-walled microfossils from Cambrian strata of the Bourinot belt, central Cape Breton Island. Age-diagnostic acritarchs have been recovered from the Dugald and MacMullin formations and from probable levels within the upper part of the Eskasoni Formation, which permit detailed correlations with acritarch-based zones in Newfoundland and Spain. The assemblage of acritarchs from the Dugald Formation confirms earlier assignments to the early middle Cambrian eteminicus Zone, but it also indicates that the upper part of the formation belongs to the hicksi Zone of the Drumian Stage. Acritarchs from the MacMullin Formation provide the first biostratigraphic evidence that this unit extends into the forchhammeri Zone of the Guzhangian Stage. These acritarchs are present in the lower part of the MacMullin Formation, putting into question earlier identification of hicksi Zone trilobites in this unit and raising the possibility of an unconformity. The data from the Bourinot belt provide additional evidence for the biostratigraphic utility of acritarchs in the Cambrian Acado-Baltic province.
Late stage rifting of the Laurentian continent: evidence from the geochemistry of greenstone and amphibolite in the central Vermont Appalachians1This article is one of a series of papers published in CJES Special Issue: In honour of Ward Neale on the theme of Appalachian and Grenvillian geology.
Authors: Coish Raymond , Kim Jonathan , Morris Nathan , Johnson David
Published: March 2017

Metamorphosed mafic rocks from west-central Vermont crop out in tectonic slices of the Stowe Formation within the Rowe–Hawley Belt of New England. The rocks include greenstone and amphibolite, which are interpreted to have been basaltic flows and gabbroic intrusions, respectively. Even though the rocks have been metamorphosed to greenschist or amphibolite facies, their igneous origins can be deciphered through careful use of geochemistry. Three geochemical types have been identified. Type 1 and 2 samples have geochemical characteristics similar to those found in mid-ocean ridge basalts (MORB), except that they have slightly elevated light rare-earth element (LREE) concentrations and are higher in Nb/Y ratios. Their Nb/Y ratios are similar to basalts found in Iceland and parts of the Afar region of the East African Rift. Types 1 and 2 are similar to metabasalts of the Caldwell and Maquereau formations in southern Quebec. The less-common type 3 samples have highly enriched LREE and are high in Nb/Y and Zr/Y ratios, similar to some alkali basalts from Afar and Iceland. Detailed analysis of the geochemistry suggests that greenstones and amphibolite from the Stowe Formation formed as basaltic eruptions during very late stages in rifting of the Rodinian continent that eventually led to formation of the Iapetus Ocean. This interpretation is consistent with tectonic models of the Vermont and Quebec Appalachians.
Middle Ordovician (late Dapingian–Darriwilian) conodonts from the Cow Head Group and Lower Head Formation, western Newfoundland, Canada1This article is one of a series of papers published inCJES Special Issue: In honour of Ward Nealeon the theme of Appalachian and Grenvillian geology.
Authors: Stouge Svend
Published: March 2017

Middle Ordovician (late Dapingian–Darriwilian) conodonts from the Shallow Bay and Green Point formations, Cow Head Group, and the Lower Head Formation are recorded from three sections in Gros Morne National Park. The collection was investigated to clarify local age relationships between the uppermost part of the Cow Head Group and the interbedded to overlying sediments of the Lower Head Formation. Conodonts from St. Pauls Inlet North section indicate a middle Dapingian age for the upper lower Bed 13, latest Dapingian to early Darriwilian age for the upper Bed 13, an early Darriwilian (Dw 1) age for the top beds or Bed 15 of the Shallow Bay Formation at Lower Head, and the Lower Head Formation is referred to the Darriwilian. The uppermost part of the lower Bed 13 contains Periodon hankensis n. sp., Gothodus sp. A , and Diaphorodus delicatus followed by Periodon macrodentatus , Ansella longicuspica , Erraticodon n. sp. A , and Spinodus wardi n. sp. in the lowermost part of upper Bed 13. The fauna with P. macrodentatus is referred to the newly established Periodon macrodentatus conodont (phylo-)Zone, which is used for global correlation. The uppermost fauna in the Cow Head Group, i.e., Bed 15, includes Histiodella holodentata , Nealeodus martinpointensis , Oistodella pulchra , Dzikodus peavyi , and Yangtzeplacognathus n. sp. A , which are included in the Histiodella holodentata conodont (Bio-)Subzone of the Periodon macrodentatus Zone. Nealeodus is a new genus introduced here; Periodon hankensis n. sp. and Spinodus wardi n. sp. are new species described from the beds 13 and 15, respectively, in the Cow Head Group; Drepanodus aff. D. giganteus , Drepanodus aff. D. robustus , Erraticodon n. sp. A, Protopanderodus cf. P. cooperi , P. cf. P. varicostatus , and Yangtzeplacognathus n. sp. A are taxa referred to in open nomenclature.
A Real-Time Method for Decoding the Neural Drive to Muscles Using Single-Channel Intra-Muscular EMG Recordings
Authors: Karimimehr Saeed , Marateb Hamid Reza , Muceli Silvia , Mansourian Marjan , Mañanas Miguel Angel , Farina Dario
Published: March 2017

The neural command from motor neurons to muscles — sometimes referred to as the neural drive to muscle — can be identified by decomposition of electromyographic (EMG) signals. This approach can be used for inferring the voluntary commands in neural interfaces in patients with limb amputations. This paper proposes for the first time an innovative method for fully automatic and real-time intramuscular EMG (iEMG) decomposition. The method is based on online single-pass density-based clustering and adaptive classification of bivariate features, using the concept of potential measure. No attempt was made to resolve superimposed motor unit action potentials. The proposed algorithm was validated on sets of simulated and experimental iEMG signals. Signals were recorded from the biceps femoris long-head, vastus medialis and lateralis and tibialis anterior muscles during low-to-moderate isometric constant-force and linearly-varying force contractions. The average number of missed, duplicated and erroneous clusters for the examined signals was [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text], respectively. The average decomposition accuracy (defined similar to signal detection theory but without using True Negatives in the denominator) and coefficient of determination (variance accounted for) for the cumulative discharge rate estimation were [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text], respectively. The time cost for processing each 200[Formula: see text]ms iEMG interval was [Formula: see text] (21–97)[Formula: see text]ms. However, computational time generally increases over time as a function of frames/signal epochs. Meanwhile, the incremental accuracy defined as the accuracy of real-time analysis of each signal epoch, was [Formula: see text]% for epochs recorded after initial one second. The proposed algorithm is thus a promising new tool for neural decoding in the next-generation of prosthetic control.
Test and Diagnosis of Automotive Embedded Processors via High-Speed Standard Interfaces
Authors: Gleichner Christian , Vierhaus Heinrich T.
Published: March 2017

In state-of-the-art automotive controllers, functional tests are used to check their integrity in the field. Features dedicated to production test of integrated circuits such as scan chains are not applied in the embedded system. However, such test structures enable a more effective and diagnostic test, which improves the fault analysis in case of a system failure and even increases system reliability. To achieve this, an access to the integrated test logic is required. This paper describes a concept of a test access to embedded systems via high-speed standard interfaces. The extended test logic as well as an appropriate test routine is presented.
Fractional Band-Pass Filters: Design, Implementation and Application to EEG Signal Processing
Authors: Baranowski Jerzy , Piątek Paweł
Published: March 2017

Fractional band-pass filters are a promising area in the signal processing. They are especially attractive as a method for processing of biomedical signals, such as EEG, where large signal distortion is undesired. We present two structures of fractional band-pass filters: one as an analog of classical second-order filter, and one arising from parallel connection of two fractional low-pass filters. We discuss a method for filter implementation — Laguerre Impulse Response Approximation (LIRA) — along with sufficient conditions for when the filter can be realized with it. We then discuss methods of filter tuning, in particular we present some analytical results along with optimization algorithm for numerical tuning. Filters are implemented and tested with EEG signals. We discuss the results highlighting the possible limitations and potential for development.
The complexity of the equation solvability problem over semipattern groups
Authors: Földvári Attila
Published: March 2017

The complexity of the equation solvability problem is known for nilpotent groups, for not solvable groups and for some semidirect products of Abelian groups. We provide a new polynomial time algorithm for deciding the equation solvability problem over certain semidirect products, where the first factor is not necessarily Abelian. Our main idea is to represent such groups as matrix groups, and reduce the original problem to equation solvability over the underlying field. Further, we apply this new method to give a much more efficient algorithm for equation solvability over nilpotent rings than previously existed.
A sequence of polynomial invariants for Gauss diagrams
Authors: Im Young Ho , Kim Sera
Published: March 2017

We introduce a sequence of polynomial invariants for Gauss diagrams which are one-to-one correspondence with virtual knot diagrams. Also, we give some properties of these polynomials and examples.
Toward homological characterization of semirings by e-injective semimodules
Authors: Abuhlail J. Y. , Il’in S. N. , Katsov Y. , Nam T. G.
Published: March 2017

In this paper, we introduce and study e-injective semimodules, in particular over additively idempotent semirings. We completely characterize semirings all of whose semimodules are e-injective, describe semirings all of whose projective semimodules are e-injective, and characterize one-sided Noetherian rings in terms of direct sums of e-injective semimodules. Also, we give complete characterizations of bounded distributive lattices, subtractive semirings, and simple semirings, all of whose cyclic (finitely generated) semimodules are e-injective.
Almost optimality of orthogonal super greedy algorithms for incoherent dictionaries
Authors: Shao Chunfang , Ye Peixin
Published: March 2017

We investigate the efficiency of weak orthogonal super greedy algorithm (WOSGA) for [Formula: see text]-term approximation with respect to dictionaries which are [Formula: see text]-unconditional in arbitrary Hilbert space [Formula: see text] For an element [Formula: see text], let [Formula: see text] be the output of WOSGA after [Formula: see text] steps for some constant [Formula: see text]. We show that the residual [Formula: see text] can be bounded by a constant multiplying the error of best [Formula: see text]-term approximation to [Formula: see text] Moreover, we get an element [Formula: see text], through a simple postprocessing of [Formula: see text] by retaining its [Formula: see text] largest components in absolute value, which realizes near best [Formula: see text]-term approximation for [Formula: see text] Our results are obtained for dictionaries in [Formula: see text] which satisfies the weaker assumption than the RIP condition.
A computational model for predicting transmembrane regions of retroviruses
Authors: Liu Ze , Lv Hongqiang , Han Jiuqiang , Liu Ruiling
Published: March 2017

Transmembrane region (TR) is a conserved region of transmembrane (TM) subunit in envelope (env) glycoprotein of retrovirus. Evidences have shown that TR is responsible for anchoring the env glycoprotein on the lipid bilayer and substitution of the TR for a covalently linked lipid anchor abrogates fusion. However, universal software could not achieve sufficient accuracy as TM in env also has several motifs such as signal peptide, fusion peptide and immunosuppressive domain composed largely of hydrophobic residues. In this paper, a support vector machine-based (SVM) model is proposed to identify TRs in retroviruses. Firstly, physicochemical and evolutionary information properties were extracted as original features. And then, the feature importance was analyzed by minimum Redundancy Maximum Relevance (mRMR) feature selection criterion. Our model achieved an Sn of 0.955, Sp of 0.998, ACC of 0.995, MCC of 0.954 using 10-fold cross-validation on the training dataset. These results suggest that the proposed model can be used to predict TRs in non-annotation retroviruses and 11917, 3344, 2, 289 and 6 new putative TRs were found in HERV, HIV, HTLV, SIV, MLV, respectively.
Slow motion for a hyperbolic variation of Allen–Cahn equation in one space dimension
Authors: Folino Raffaele
Published: March 2017

The aim of this paper is to prove that, for specific initial data [Formula: see text] and with homogeneous Neumann boundary conditions, the solution of the IBVP for a hyperbolic variation of Allen–Cahn equation on the interval [Formula: see text] shares the well-known dynamical metastability valid for the classical parabolic case. In particular, using the “energy approach” proposed by Bronsard and Kohn [On the slowness of phase boundary motion in one space dimension, Comm. Pure Appl. Math. 43 (1990) 983–997], if [Formula: see text] is the diffusion coefficient, we show that in a time scale of order [Formula: see text] nothing happens and the solution maintains the same number of transitions of its initial datum [Formula: see text]. The novelty consists mainly in the role of the initial velocity [Formula: see text], which may create or eliminate transitions in later times. Numerical experiments are also provided in the particular case of the Allen–Cahn equation with relaxation.
Source reconstruction for bioluminescence tomography via L1∕2 regularization
Authors: Yu Jingjing , Li Qiyue , Wang Haiyu
Published: March 2017

Bioluminescence tomography (BLT) is an important noninvasive optical molecular imaging modality in preclinical research. To improve the image quality, reconstruction algorithms have to deal with the inherent ill-posedness of BLT inverse problem. The sparse characteristic of bioluminescent sources in spatial distribution has been widely explored in BLT and many L1-regularized methods have been investigated due to the sparsity-inducing properties of L1 norm. In this paper, we present a reconstruction method based on L[Formula: see text] regularization to enhance sparsity of BLT solution and solve the nonconvex L[Formula: see text] norm problem by converting it to a series of weighted L1 homotopy minimization problems with iteratively updated weights. To assess the performance of the proposed reconstruction algorithm, simulations on a heterogeneous mouse model are designed to compare it with three representative sparse reconstruction algorithms, including the weighted interior-point, L1 homotopy, and the Stagewise Orthogonal Matching Pursuit algorithm. Simulation results show that the proposed method yield stable reconstruction results under different noise levels. Quantitative comparison results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm outperforms the competitor algorithms in location accuracy, multiple-source resolving and image quality.
Some results on curves in the plane with log-linear density
Authors: Le Nam Tran
Published: March 2017

In this paper, we show some relations between traveling fronts of curvature flow and constant [Formula: see text]-curvature curves. In the plane with density [Formula: see text] satisfying [Formula: see text], we prove a Fenchel’s type theorem for the class of simple, closed, convex curves. We also prove that among all curves joining two given points, a curve minimizes weighted arc-length if and only if its [Formula: see text]-curvature is 0. Another proof is also presented for the fact “the plane with density [Formula: see text] contains no isoperimetric region”.
A generalization of commuting probability of finite rings
Authors: Dutta Parama , Nath Rajat Kanti
Published: March 2017

The aim of this paper is to study the probability that the commutator of an arbitrarily chosen pair of elements, each from two different additive subgroups of a finite non-commutative ring equals a given element of that ring. We obtain several results on this probability including a computing formula, some bounds and characterizations.
Toward a Knowledge-Driven Context-Aware System for Surgical Assistance
Authors: Nakawala Hirenkumar , Ferrigno Giancarlo , De Momi Elena
Published: March 2017

Complex surgeries complications are increasing, thus making an efficient surgical assistance is a real need. In this work, an ontology-based context-aware system was developed for surgical training/assistance during Thoracentesis by using image processing and semantic technologies. We evaluated the Thoracentesis ontology and implemented a paradigmatic test scenario to check the efficacy of the system by recognizing contextual information, e.g. the presence of surgical instruments on the table. The framework was able to retrieve contextual information about current surgical activity along with information on the need or presence of a surgical instrument.
Performance Analysis of a Hybrid Power Cutting System for Roadheader
Authors: Yang Yang , Li Guowei , Yuan Aihui
Published: March 2017

An electrohydraulic hybrid power cutting transmission system for roadheader under specific working condition was proposed in this paper. The overall model for the new system composed of an electric motor model, a hydraulic pump‐motor model, a torsional planetary set model, and a hybrid power train model was established. The working mode characteristics were simulated under the conditions of taking the effect of cutting picks into account. The advantages of new hybrid power cutting system about the dynamic response under shock load were investigated compared with the traditional cutting system. The results illustrated that the hybrid power system had an obvious cushioning in terms of the dynamic load of cutting electric motor and planetary gear set. Besides, the hydraulic motor could provide an auxiliary power to improve the performance of the electric motor. With further analysis, a dynamic load was found to have a high relation to the stiffness and damping of coupling in the transmission train. The results could be a useful guide for the design of cutting transmission of roadheader.