bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protein clustering and spatial organization in T-cells
Authors: Shannon Michael J. , Burn Garth , Cope Andrew , Cornish Georgina , Owen Dylan M.
Published: May 2015

T-cell protein microclusters have until recently been investigable only as microscale entities with their composition and structure being discerned by biochemistry or diffraction-limited light microscopy. With the advent of super resolution microscopy comes the ability to interrogate the structure and function of these clusters at the single molecule level by producing highly accurate pointillist maps of single molecule locations at ~20nm resolution. Analysis tools have also been developed to provide rich descriptors of the pointillist data, allowing us to pose questions about the nanoscale organization which governs the local and cell wide responses required of a migratory T-cell.
Debating Systematic Literature Reviews (SLR) and their Ramifications for IS: A rejoinder to Mike Chiasson, Briony Oates, Ulrike Schultze, and Richard Watson
Authors: Boell Sebastian K , Cecez-Kecmanovic Dubravka
Published: May 2015

Systematic Literature Reviews (SLRs) are making their inroads into the IS discipline. By responding to the commentaries this rejoinder contributes to a debate about potential merits, limitations and wider ramifications of SLR for the IS discipline. More specifically we engage with the questions: What is an SLR and can it be conducted partially? How can literature reviews and SLR be improved? What is the view of ‘evidence’ in SLRs and the evidence-based practice movement and what are potential implications for ‘research informing IS practice'? How can the efficiency and effectiveness of literature reviews be improved? Overall we argue for a practice of critique that scrutinizes methodologies such as SLR in the light of values and ends we seek to achieve in the IS discipline.
Three dimensional imaging and analysis of a single nano-device at the ultimate scale using correlative microscopy techniques
Authors: Grenier A. , Duguay S. , Barnes J. P. , Serra R. , Rolland N. , Audoit G. , Morin P. , Gouraud P. , Cooper D. , Blavette D. , Vurpillot F.
Published: May 2015

The analysis of a same sample using nanometre or atomic-scale techniques is fundamental to fully understand device properties. This is especially true for the dopant distribution within last generation nano-transistors such as MOSFET or FINFETs. In this work, the spatial distribution of boron in a nano-transistor at the atomic scale has been investigated using a correlative approach combining electron and atom probe tomography. The distortions present in the reconstructed volume using atom probe tomography have been discussed by simulations of surface atoms using a cylindrical symmetry taking into account the evaporation fields. Electron tomography combined with correction of atomic density was used so that to correct image distortions observed in atom probe tomography reconstructions. These corrected atom probe tomography reconstructions then enable a detailed boron doping analysis of the device.
Ab initio kinetics and thermal decomposition mechanism of mononitrobiuret and 1,5-dinitrobiuret
Authors: Sun Hongyan , Vaghjiani Ghanshyam L.
Published: May 2015

Mononitrobiuret (MNB) and 1,5-dinitrobiuret (DNB) are tetrazole-free, nitrogen-rich, energetic compounds. For the first time, a comprehensive ab initio kinetics study on the thermal decomposition mechanisms of MNB and DNB is reported here. In particular, the intramolecular interactions of amine H-atom with electronegative nitro O-atom and carbonyl O-atom have been analyzed for biuret, MNB, and DNB at the M06-2X/aug-cc-pVTZ level of theory. The results show that the MNB and DNB molecules are stabilized through six-member-ring moieties via intramolecular H-bonding with interatomic distances between 1.8 and 2.0 Å, due to electrostatic as well as polarization and dispersion interactions. Furthermore, it was found that the stable molecules in the solid state have the smallest dipole moment amongst all the conformers in the nitrobiuret series of compounds, thus revealing a simple way for evaluating reactivity of fuel conformers. The potential energy surface for thermal decomposition of MNB was characterized by spin restricted coupled cluster theory at the RCCSD(T)/cc-pV∞ Z//M06-2X/aug-cc-pVTZ level. It was found that the thermal decomposition of MNB is initiated by the elimination of HNCO and HNN(O)OH intermediates. Intramolecular transfer of a H-atom, respectively, from the terminal NH2 group to the adjacent carbonyl O-atom via a six-member-ring transition state eliminates HNCO with an energy barrier of 35 kcal/mol and from the central NH group to the adjacent nitro O-atom eliminates HNN(O)OH with an energy barrier of 34 kcal/mol. Elimination of HNN(O)OH is also the primary process involved in the thermal decomposition of DNB, which processes C2v symmetry. The rate coefficients for the primary decomposition channels for MNB and DNB were quantified as functions of temperature and pressure. In addition, the thermal decomposition of HNN(O)OH was analyzed via Rice–Ramsperger–Kassel–Marcus/multi-well master equation simulations, the results of which reveal the formation of (NO2 + H2O) to be the major decomposition path. Furthermore, we provide fundamental interpretations for the experimental results of Klapötke et al. [Combust. Flame 139, 358–366 (2004)] regarding the thermal stability of MNB and DNB, and their decomposition products. Notably, a fundamental understanding of fuel stability, decomposition mechanism, and key reactions leading to ignition is essential in the design and manipulation of molecular systems for the development of new energetic materials for advanced propulsion applications.
On the pressure effect in energetic deposition of Cu thin films by modulated pulsed power magnetron sputtering: A global plasma model and experiments
Authors: Zheng B. C. , Meng D. , Che H. L. , Lei M. K.
Published: May 2015

The modulated pulsed power magnetron sputtering (MPPMS) discharge processes are numerically modeled and experimentally investigated, in order to explore the effect of the pressure on MPPMS discharges as well as on the microstructure of the deposited thin films. A global plasma model has been developed based on a volume-averaged global description of the ionization region, considering the loss of electrons by cross-B diffusion. The temporal variations of internal plasma parameters at different pressures from 0.1 to 0.7 Pa are obtained by fitting the model to duplicate the experimental discharge data, and Cu thin films are deposited by MPPMS at the corresponding pressures. The surface morphology, grain size and orientation, and microstructure of the deposited thin films are investigated by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and x-ray diffraction. By increasing the pressure from 0.1 to 0.7 Pa, both the ion bombardment energy and substrate temperature which are estimated by the modeled plasma parameters decrease, corresponding to the observed transition of the deposited thin films from a void free structure with a wide distribution of grain size (zone T) into an underdense structure with a fine fiber texture (zone 1) in the extended structure zone diagram (SZD). The microstructure and texture transition of Cu thin films are well-explained by the extended SZD, suggesting that the primary plasma processes are properly incorporated in the model. The results contribute to the understanding of the characteristics of MPPMS discharges, as well as its correlation with the microstructure and texture of deposited Cu thin films.
Flow-excited acoustic resonance of a Helmholtz resonator: Discrete vortex model compared to experiments
Authors: Dai Xiwen , Jing Xiaodong , Sun Xiaofeng
Published: May 2015

The acoustic resonance in a Helmholtz resonator excited by a low Mach number grazing flow is studied theoretically. The nonlinear numerical model is established by coupling the vortical motion at the cavity opening with the cavity acoustic mode through an explicit force balancing relation between the two sides of the opening. The vortical motion is modeled in the potential flow framework, in which the oscillating motion of the thin shear layer is described by an array of convected point vortices, and the unsteady vortex shedding is determined by the Kutta condition. The cavity acoustic mode is obtained from the one-dimensional acoustic propagation model, the time-domain equivalent of which is given by means of a broadband time-domain impedance model. The acoustic resistances due to radiation and viscous loss at the opening are also taken into account. The physical processes of the self-excited oscillations, at both resonance and off-resonance states, are simulated directly in the time domain. Results show that the shear layer exhibits a weak flapping motion at the off-resonance state, whereas it rolls up into large-scale vortex cores when resonances occur. Single and dual-vortex patterns are observed corresponding to the first and second hydrodynamic modes. The simulation also reveals different trajectories of the two vortices across the opening when the first and second hydrodynamic modes co-exist. The strong modulation of the shed vorticity by the acoustic feedback at the resonance state is demonstrated. The model overestimates the pressure pulsation amplitude by a factor 2, which is expected to be due to the turbulence of the flow which is not taken into account. The model neglects vortex shedding at the downstream and side edges of the cavity. This will also result in an overestimation of the pulsation amplitude.
Formation of Carbanions from Carboxylate Ions Bearing Electron-Withdrawing Groups via Photoinduced Decarboxylation: Addition of Generated Carbanions to Benzaldehyde
Authors: Kumagai Yuta , Naoe Takashi , Nishikawa Keisuke , Osaka Kazuyuki , Morita Toshio , Yoshimi Yasuharu
Published: May 2015

The photoinduced decarboxylation of carboxylate ions bearing electron-withdrawing groups using biphenyl and 1,4-dicyanonaphthalene leads to the efficient generation of carbanions under mild conditions. The efficiency of the carbanion generation is strongly dependent on the single-electron transfer from the photogenerated radical anion of the electron-acceptor to the radical. In particular, the cyanomethyl anion formed using this photochemical method can be added to benzaldehydes to give the corresponding adducts.
Video Game Localisation for Fans by Fans
Authors: Muñoz Sánchez Pablo
Published: May 2015

The aim of this paper is to show the particularities of the so-called “romhacking”, a methodology developed by amateurs to localise mainly classic video games. In the first section, the concept and origin of the term “romhacking” is presented. The second section offers an overview of the workflow followed by romhackers to localise video games. In the third section, an analysis of the differences between professional and amateur translations is given. The fourth section includes a discussion of the legal aspects of this practice. The paper concludes with a reflection on the impact of amateur translations on the video game localisation industry.
Establishment and characterization of a novel murine model for pollen allergy
Authors: Murakami Shiho , Nakayama Sayuri , Hattori Makoto , Yoshida Tadashi
Published: May 2015

Although there have been many studies revealing the mechanism and establishing the therapeutical method for allergic rhinitis, no suitable animal models for allergic rhinitis, especially for pollen allergy, are currently available. We therefore aimed in this study to develop a murine model producing IgE in response to an inhaled antigen without using any adjuvants. Ovalbumin (OVA)-specific T cell receptor transgenic mice (DO11.10) inhaled an OVA solution for one h, twice a week, for six weeks. The resulting increase of OVA-specific IgE in the serum was observed depending on the times of inhalation. Spleen cells from mice that had inhaled the antigen produced more IL-4 and less IFN-γ than those from the control mice in vitro. These results indicate that inhaled antigen enhanced the Th2-type responses and induced IgE production in a T cell-mediated manner. Our findings would contribute to studies on prevention and treatment of pollen allergy.
Changes in Red Snapper Diet and Trophic Ecology Following the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill
Authors: Tarnecki Joseph H. , Patterson William F.
Published: May 2015

Red Snapper Lutjanus campechanus were sampled at 33 natural and 27 artificial reef sites in the northern Gulf of Mexico prior to (2009–2010) and after (2010–2011) to examine potential diet and trophic shifts following the Deepwater Horizon (DWH) oil spill. We dissected 708 stomachs for gut content analysis and processed 65 muscle tissue samples for stable isotope ratio-mass spectrometry analysis of δ13C, δ15N, and δ34S. Forty-eight percent of stomachs contained identifiable prey, which we grouped into seven categories: fish, decapods, cephalopods, stomatopods, gastropods, zooplankton, and other invertebrates. Based on these categories, Red Snapper diet was significantly different following the DWH oil spill, and was differentially affected by fish size. The interaction between habitat (natural versus artificial reefs) and DWH oil spill effects was also significant. Significant differences in diet among Red Snapper size-classes were due to low trophic position prey, such as pelagic zooplankton, being more abundant in the diet of larger (>500 mm) Red Snapper, while decapods and fish constituted a higher proportion of the diet of smaller individuals. Red Snapper consumed higher amounts of decapods at artificial (21.9% by mass) versus natural (14.8%) reef sites, but the habitat effect on diet was not significant. The habitat × DWH timing interaction was driven by a decrease in zooplankton consumed at both habitat types, increased benthic prey at natural reefs, and increased fish consumption at artificial reefs in post-DWH oil spill samples. Stable isotope data indicated a postspill increase in Red Snapper trophic position (15N enrichment) and an increase in benthic versus pelagic prey (34S depletion), both consistent with observed dietary shifts. Overall, results indicate shifts in Red Snapper diet and trophic position occurred following the DWH oil spill, thus the relative abundance of prey resources likely changed.

Received May 30, 2014; accepted February 3, 2015
VEGF tips its hand in angiogenesis
Authors: Short Ben
Published: May 2015

In 2003, Gerhardt et al. described how vascular endothelial growth factor guides the growth of new blood vessels.
Human HOIP and LUBAC deficiency underlies autoinflammation, immunodeficiency, amylopectinosis, and lymphangiectasia
Authors: Boisson Bertrand , Laplantine Emmanuel , Dobbs Kerry , Cobat Aurélie , Tarantino Nadine , Hazen Melissa , Lidov Hart G.W. , Hopkins Gregory , Du Likun , Belkadi Aziz , Chrabieh Maya , Itan Yuval , Picard Capucine , Fournet Jean-Christophe , Eibel Hermann , Tsitsikov Erdyni , Pai Sung-Yun , Abel Laurent , Al-Herz Waleed , Casanova Jean-Laurent , Israel Alain , Notarangelo Luigi D.
Published: May 2015

Inherited, complete deficiency of human HOIL-1, a component of the linear ubiquitination chain assembly complex (LUBAC), underlies autoinflammation, infections, and amylopectinosis. We report the clinical description and molecular analysis of a novel inherited disorder of the human LUBAC complex. A patient with multiorgan autoinflammation, combined immunodeficiency, subclinical amylopectinosis, and systemic lymphangiectasia, is homozygous for a mutation in HOIP, the gene encoding the catalytic component of LUBAC. The missense allele (L72P, in the PUB domain) is at least severely hypomorphic, as it impairs HOIP expression and destabilizes the whole LUBAC complex. Linear ubiquitination and NF-κB activation are impaired in the patient’s fibroblasts stimulated by IL-1β or TNF. In contrast, the patient’s monocytes respond to IL-1β more vigorously than control monocytes. However, the activation and differentiation of the patient’s B cells are impaired in response to CD40 engagement. These cellular and clinical phenotypes largely overlap those of HOIL-1-deficient patients. Clinical differences between HOIL-1- and HOIP-mutated patients may result from differences between the mutations, the loci, or other factors. Our findings show that human HOIP is essential for the assembly and function of LUBAC and for various processes governing inflammation and immunity in both hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic cells.
Ryanodine receptor gating controls generation of diastolic calcium waves in cardiac myocytes
Authors: Petrovič Pavol , Valent Ivan , Cocherová Elena , Pavelková Jana , Zahradníková Alexandra
Published: May 2015

The role of cardiac ryanodine receptor (RyR) gating in the initiation and propagation of calcium waves was investigated using a mathematical model comprising a stochastic description of RyR gating and a deterministic description of calcium diffusion and sequestration. We used a one-dimensional array of equidistantly spaced RyR clusters, representing the confocal scanning line, to simulate the formation of calcium sparks. Our model provided an excellent description of the calcium dependence of the frequency of diastolic calcium sparks and of the increased tendency for the production of calcium waves after a decrease in cytosolic calcium buffering. We developed a hypothesis relating changes in the propensity to form calcium waves to changes of RyR gating and tested it by simulation. With a realistic RyR gating model, increased ability of RyR to be activated by Ca2+ strongly increased the propensity for generation of calcium waves at low (0.05–0.1-µM) calcium concentrations but only slightly at high (0.2–0.4-µM) calcium concentrations. Changes in RyR gating altered calcium wave formation by changing the calcium sensitivity of spontaneous calcium spark activation and/or the average number of open RyRs in spontaneous calcium sparks. Gating changes that did not affect RyR activation by Ca2+ had only a weak effect on the propensity to form calcium waves, even if they strongly increased calcium spark frequency. Calcium waves induced by modulating the properties of the RyR activation site could be suppressed by inhibiting the spontaneous opening of the RyR. These data can explain the increased tendency for production of calcium waves under conditions when RyR gating is altered in cardiac diseases.
The Hidden Cost of Regulation: Emotional Responses to Command and Control
Authors: Just David R. , Hanks Andrew S.
Published: May 2015

In economic models of behavior, consumers are assumed to value the goods and services they purchase based on stable preferences over externally identifiable attributes such as quality. These models predict that consumers will respond to changes in price in a way that is independent of the source of the price change. Yet research in the behavioral sciences indicates that consumers that are emotionally attached to a consumption good or other behavior might respond with resistance when policies threaten their consumption or behavior. Moreover, policies that in fact validate some emotional attachments can stir a stronger preference for the good or behavior. Reviewing both survey and experimental data from the literature, we demonstrate how such emotional responses can create hidden costs to policy implementation that could not be detected using standard welfare economic techniques. Building upon Rabin's work on fairness in games, we propose a partial equilibrium model of emotional response to policy whereby preferences are endogenous to policy choices. In accordance with evidence both from our own analysis and the field, we propose that confrontational policies (such as a sin tax) increase the marginal utility for a good, and that validating policies (such as a subsidy) also increases the marginal utility for a good. A social planner that ignores potential emotional responses to policy changes may unwittingly induce significant dead weight loss. Using our model, we propose a feasible method to determine if emotional deadweight costs exist, and to place a lower bound on the size of these costs.
Interactions ofPhytophthora capsiciwith Resistant and Susceptible Pepper Roots and Stems
Authors: Dunn Amara R. , Smart Christine D.
Published: May 2015

Using host resistance is an important strategy for managing pepper root and crown rot caused by Phytophthora capsici. An isolate of P. capsici constitutively expressing a gene for green fluorescent protein was used to investigate pathogen interactions with roots, crowns, and stems of Phytophthora-susceptible bell pepper ‘Red Knight’, Phytophthora-resistant bell pepper ‘Paladin’, and Phytophthora-resistant landrace Criollos de Morelos 334 (CM-334). In this study, the same number of zoospores attached to and germinated on roots of all cultivars 30 and 120 min postinoculation (pi), respectively. At 3 days pi, significantly more secondary roots had necrotic lesions on Red Knight than on Paladin and CM-334 plants. By 4 days pi, necrotic lesions had formed on the taproot of Red Knight but not Paladin or CM-334 plants. Although hyphae were visible in the crowns and stems of all Red Knight plants observed at 4 days pi, hyphae were observed in crowns of only a few Paladin and in no CM-334 plants, and never in stems of either resistant cultivar at 4 days pi. These results improve our understanding of how P. capsici infects plants and may contribute to the use of resistant pepper cultivars for disease management and the development of new cultivars.
Release of chemical transmitters from cell bodies and dendrites of nerve cells
Authors: De-Miguel Francisco F. , Nicholls John G.
Published: May 2015

Papers in this issue concern
extrasynaptic
transmission, namely release of signalling molecules by exocytosis or diffusion from neuronal cell bodies, dendrites, axons and glia. Problems discussed concern the molecules, their secretion and importance for normal function and disease. Molecules secreted extrasynaptically include transmitters, peptides, hormones and nitric oxide. For extrasynaptic secretion, trains of action potentials are required, and the time course of release is slower than at synapses. Questions arise concerning the mechanism of extrasynaptic secretion: how does it differ from the release observed at synaptic terminals and gland cells? What kinds of vesicles take part? Is release accomplished through calcium entry, SNAP and SNARE proteins? A clear difference is in the role of molecules released synaptically and extrasynaptically. After extrasynaptic release, molecules reach distant as well as nearby cells, and thereby produce long-lasting changes over large volumes of brain. Such changes can affect circuits for motor performance and mood states. An example with clinical relevance is dyskinesia of patients treated with
l
-DOPA for Parkinson's disease. Extrasynaptically released transmitters also evoke responses in glial cells, which in turn release molecules that cause local vasodilatation and enhanced circulation in regions of the brain that are active.
The role of transmitter diffusion and flow versus extracellular vesicles in volume transmission in the brain neural–glial networks
Authors: Borroto-Escuela Dasiel O. , Agnati Luigi F. , Bechter Karl , Jansson Anders , Tarakanov Alexander O. , Fuxe Kjell
Published: May 2015

Two major types of intercellular communication are found in the central nervous system (CNS), namely wiring transmission (point-to-point communication, the prototype being synaptic transmission with axons and terminals) and volume transmission (VT; communication in the extracellular fluid and in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)) involving large numbers of cells in the CNS. Volume and synaptic transmission become integrated inter alia through the ability of their chemical signals to activate different types of receptor protomers in heteroreceptor complexes located synaptically or extrasynaptically in the plasma membrane. The demonstration of extracellular dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5-HT) fluorescence around the DA and 5-HT nerve cell bodies with the Falck–Hillarp formaldehyde fluorescence method after treatment with amphetamine and chlorimipramine, respectively, gave the first indications of the existence of VT in the brain, at least at the soma level. There exist different forms of VT. Early studies on VT only involved spread including diffusion and flow of soluble biological signals, especially transmitters and modulators, a communication called extrasynaptic (short distance) and long distance (paraaxonal and paravascular and CSF pathways) VT. Also, the extracellular vesicle type of VT was demonstrated. The exosomes (endosome-derived vesicles) appear to be the major vesicular carriers for VT but the larger microvesicles also participate. Both mainly originate at the soma–dendritic level. They can transfer lipids and proteins, including receptors, Rab GTPases, tetraspanins, cholesterol, sphingolipids and ceramide. Within them there are also subsets of mRNAs and non-coding regulatory microRNAs. At the soma–dendritic membrane, sets of dynamic postsynaptic heteroreceptor complexes (built up of different types of physically interacting receptors and proteins) involving inter alia G protein-coupled receptors including autoreceptors, ion channel receptors and receptor tyrosine kinases are hypothesized to be the molecular basis for learning and memory. At nerve terminals, the presynaptic heteroreceptor complexes are postulated to undergo plastic changes to maintain the pattern of multiple transmitter release reflecting the firing pattern to be learned by the heteroreceptor complexes in the postsynaptic membrane.
Glial cell regulation of neuronal activity and blood flow in the retina by release of gliotransmitters
Authors: Newman Eric A.
Published: May 2015

Astrocytes in the brain release transmitters that actively modulate neuronal excitability and synaptic efficacy. Astrocytes also release vasoactive agents that contribute to neurovascular coupling. As reviewed in this article, Müller cells, the principal retinal glial cells, modulate neuronal activity and blood flow in the retina. Stimulated Müller cells release ATP which, following its conversion to adenosine by ectoenzymes, hyperpolarizes retinal ganglion cells by activation of A1 adenosine receptors. This results in the opening of G protein-coupled inwardly rectifying potassium (GIRK) channels and small conductance Ca2+-activated K+(SK) channels. Tonic release of ATP also contributes to the generation of tone in the retinal vasculature by activation of P2X receptors on vascular smooth muscle cells. Vascular tone is lost when glial cells are poisoned with the gliotoxin fluorocitrate. The glial release of vasoactive metabolites of arachidonic acid, including prostaglandin E2(PGE2) and epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs), contributes to neurovascular coupling in the retina. Neurovascular coupling is reduced when neuronal stimulation of glial cells is interrupted and when the synthesis of arachidonic acid metabolites is blocked. Neurovascular coupling is compromised in diabetic retinopathy owing to the loss of glial-mediated vasodilation. This loss can be reversed by inhibiting inducible nitric oxide synthase. It is likely that future research will reveal additional important functions of the release of transmitters from glial cells.
Operating room adjusted utilization study
Authors: Arcidiacono Gabriele , Wang Jihan , Yang Kai
Published: May 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to identify key factors that impact operating room (OR) utilization and evaluate different scenarios on OR performance.

Design/methodology/approach

– Five months of data were collected. stepwise regression and best subset models were used to select factors and generate regression model for OR utilization. We further used simulation to test the influence of case duration mean, case duration variation, scheduled utilization and first-case delay on OR utilization, OR cost inefficiency and patient wait time on the day of surgery.

Findings

– The scheduled utilization, case cancellation and add-on cases were the most important factors identified in all models. The larger the case duration variation, the lower the OR cost efficiency and utilization, the longer the patient wait time. First-case delay and turnover times are not critical in OR utilization or cost efficiency.

Practical implications

– OR management should focus on creating an effective way to manage case cancellation and add-on policy to tackle the change on the day of surgery. In addition, several weeks before the surgery, the management needs to consider how to schedule cases to fit the allocated OR time.

Originality/value

– In complementary of current OR management, this research assists OR management by identifying the factors that would result in the most significant improvement on OR utilization.
Wrench perception in intermediary telepresence for remote manipulation
Authors: Shirwalkar Varsha , Dwarakanath T.A. , Bhutani Gaurav
Published: May 2015

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to conduct a reliable remote manipulation with good contact perception of the remote site. The long-term experience of the authors’ repeatedly confirm that the highest relevance lies in monitoring the wrench acting at a structurally weak point of the work piece rather than monitoring the wrench experienced by the robot end-effector.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach followed here is to sense the wrench at the interface of the robot end-effector and the environment. Position and orientation data and environment model are used to arrive at the contact point in real time. The intent of remote contact procedure is understood based on the knowledge of motion trajectory. All the above information is used to develop a wrench transformation to obtain the force diagrams.

Findings

The haptic solutions greatly suffer from objectivity, and therefore may result in inconsistency in an operator’s role. Intermediary telepresence through the visual communication of the wrench at the remote site in the form of force diagram provides excellent consistency across the operators and operations. Observing six components of the wrench in separate graphs does not provide on-line error estimate. Force diagrams suggested in the paper are found to be highly effective in perceiving the wrench.

Practical implications

The contact mode operations like assembly, surgery, docking, etc. still suffer due to the lack of easily perceivable wrench visualization. This paper provides solution to such practical issues.

Originality/value

The concept is original, and has evolved steadily over a period of time.
Incremental approach for trajectory generation of spray painting robot
Authors: Andulkar Mayur V. , Chiddarwar Shital S.
Published: May 2015

Purpose

This paper aims to present a new offline robot programming approach for automated trajectory generation on free-form surfaces targeted toward spray painting application.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, an incremental trajectory generation approach is developed where new paint passes are generated based on paint deposited on the surface as a result of previous paint passes. The trajectory is generated on real surfaces where optimal velocity is calculated using genetic algorithm considering parameters such as surface model, spray gun model, paint distribution model and task constraints.

Findings

The developed approach was implemented on various surfaces for different paint distribution patterns, and the simulation results reveal that the approach is flexible and efficient to handle variety in part geometry and paint distribution. From experimental validation and analysis of results thus obtained, the developed approach is highly promising compared to the existing methods.

Research limitations/implications

The approach assumes that the computer-aided design (CAD) model of the surface is available and is limited to surjective surfaces in a structured environment where the spray gun characteristics and process parameters are known beforehand.

Practical implications

The problem of programming a robot manually is overcome by automatically generating a sub-optimal trajectory which can be easily transferred to an industrial robot for spray painting the surface.

Originality/value

This paper discusses a new approach for automated trajectory generation from CAD model. The experimental validation of the developed approach is successfully performed on a highly curved test surface, and obtained results are in agreement with the simulation results.
A biomimetic cownose ray robot fish with oscillating and chordwise twisting flexible pectoral fins
Authors: Ma Hongwei , Cai Yueri , Wang Yuliang , Bi Shusheng , Gong Zhao
Published: May 2015

Purpose

The paper aims to develop a cownose ray-inspired robotic fish which can be propelled by oscillating and chordwise twisting pectoral fins.

Design/methodology/approach

The bionic pectoral fin which can simultaneously realize the combination of oscillating motion and chordwise twisting motion is designed based on analyzing the movement of cownose ray’s pectoral fins. The structural design and control system construction of the robotic fish are presented. Finally, a series of swimming experiments are carried out to verify the effectiveness of the design for the bionic pectoral fin.

Findings

The experimental results show that the deformation of the bionic pectoral fin can be well close to that of the cownose ray’s. The bionic pectoral fin can produce effective angle of attack, and the thrust generated can propel robotic fish effectively. Furthermore, the tests of swimming performance in the water tank show that the robotic fish can achieve a maximum forward speed of 0.43 m/s (0.94 times of body length per second) and an excellent turning maneuverability with a small radius.

Originality/value

The oscillating and pitching motion can be obtained simultaneously by the active control of chordwise twisting motion of the bionic pectoral fin, which can better imitate the movement of cownose ray’s pectoral fin. The designed bionic pectoral fin can provide an experimental platform for further study of the effect of the spanwise and chordwise flexibility on propulsion performance.
A New Mystique? Working for Yourself in the Neoliberal Economy
Authors: Taylor Stephanie
Published: May 2015

This article discusses the growing UK trend of people working for themselves. Beginning with the example of a media representation, it explores the wider implications of a discursive drift by which discourses of entrepreneurialism and contemporary creative work converge on the new figure of the worker who leaves paid employment for the supposed satisfactions of working from home. The article argues that, in contrast to the heroic masculine figures of the entrepreneur and artist, this is a feminized low-status worker. Its celebration is part of a ‘new mystique’ resembling the ‘housewife trap’ described by Friedan (1963) half a century ago, because for increasing numbers of people, both male and female, working for yourself amounts to exclusion to an almost subsistence level of economic activity on the margins of the neoliberal economy.
Hungry for the Job: Gender, Unpaid Internships, and the Creative Industries
Authors: Shade Leslie Regan , Jacobson Jenna
Published: May 2015

This paper examines the experiences of young Canadian women working in Toronto and New York who have undertaken unpaid internships in the creative sector. Interviews focused on their internship experiences, ability to secure paid employment, knowledge of the legal status of unpaid internships, and familiarity with emergent activism against unpaid internships. Findings reinforce the class-based privilege of unpaid internships in the creative sector. Despite the economic precarity of unpaid internships, the young women articulated strong desires to find meaningful, secure, and paid employment.
Predicting Disability among Community‐Dwelling Medicare Beneficiaries Using Claims‐Based Indicators
Authors: Ben‐Shalom Yonatan , Stapleton David C.
Published: May 2015

Objectives

To assess the feasibility of using existing claims‐based algorithms to identify community‐dwelling Medicare beneficiaries with disability based solely on the conditions for which they are being treated, and improving on these algorithms by combining them in predictive models.

Data Source

Data on 12,415 community‐dwelling fee‐for‐service Medicare beneficiaries who first responded to the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey (MCBS) in 2003–2006.

Study Design

Logistic regression models in which six claims‐based disability indicators are used to predict self‐reported disability. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to assess the performance of the predictive models.

Principal Findings

The predictive performance of the regression‐based models is better than that of the individual claims‐based indicators. At a predicted probability threshold chosen to maximize the sum of sensitivity and specificity, sensitivity is 0.72 for beneficiaries age 65 or older and specificity is 0.65. For those under 65, sensitivity is 0.54 and specificity is 0.67. The findings also suggest ways to improve predictive performance for specific disability populations of interest to researchers.

Conclusions

Predictive models that incorporate multiple claims‐based indicators provide an improved tool for researchers seeking to identify people with disabilities in claims data.
Eicosapentaenoic acid but not docosahexaenoic acid restores skeletal muscle mitochondrial oxidative capacity in old mice
Authors: Johnson Matthew L. , Lalia Antigoni Z. , Dasari Surendra , Pallauf Maximilian , Fitch Mark , Hellerstein Marc K. , Lanza Ian R.
Published: May 2015

Mitochondrial dysfunction is often observed in aging skeletal muscle and is implicated in age‐related declines in physical function. Early evidence suggests that dietary omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n‐3 PUFAs) improve mitochondrial function. Here, we show that 10 weeks of dietary eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) supplementation partially attenuated the age‐related decline in mitochondrial function in mice, but this effect was not observed with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The improvement in mitochondrial function with EPA occurred in the absence of any changes in mitochondrial abundance or biogenesis, which was evaluated from RNA sequencing, large‐scale proteomics, and direct measurements of muscle mitochondrial protein synthesis rates. We find that EPA improves muscle protein quality, specifically by decreasing mitochondrial protein carbamylation, a post‐translational modification that is driven by inflammation. These results demonstrate that EPA attenuated the age‐related loss of mitochondrial function and improved mitochondrial protein quality through a mechanism that is likely linked with anti‐inflammatory properties of n‐3 PUFAs. Furthermore, we demonstrate that EPA and DHA exert some common biological effects (anticoagulation, anti‐inflammatory, reduced FXR/RXR activation), but also exhibit many distinct biological effects, a finding that underscores the importance of evaluating the therapeutic potential of individual n‐3 PUFAs.
Is Implantation of a Left Ventricular Assist Device in Patients With Critical or Impending Cardiogenic Shock an Absolute Contraindication? Looking Back at Our Past Experience Trying to Identify Contraindicative Risk Factors
Authors: Dell'Aquila Angelo Maria , Schneider Stefan R.B. , Risso Paolo , Welp Henryk , Glockner David G. , Alles Sebastian , Sindermann Jürgen R. , Scherer Mirela
Published: May 2015

Poor survival has been demonstrated after ventricular assist device (VAD) implantation for Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support (INTERMACS) profile 1 and 2 patients compared with more stable levels. However, risk factors within this high‐risk cohort have not been determined so far. The aim of the present study was to identify risk factors associated with this very high mortality rate. Between February 1993 and January 2013, 298 patients underwent VAD implantation in our institution. One hundred nine patients were in INTERMACS level 1 and 49 patients were in INTERMACS level 2 and were therefore defined as hemodynamically critical (overall 158 patients). Assist devices implanted were: HVAD HeartWare n = 18; Incor n = 11; VentrAssist n = 2; DeBakey n = 22; and pulsatile systems n = 105. After cumulative support duration of 815.35 months, Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed a survival of 63.9, 48.8, and 40.3% at 1, 6, and 12 months, respectively. Cox regression analyses identified age > 50 (P = 0.001, odds ratio [OR] 2.48), white blood cell count > 13.000/μL (P = 0.01, OR 2.06), preoperative renal replacement therapy (P = 0.001, OR 2.63), and postcardiotomy failure (P < 0.001, OR 2.79) as independent predictors of mortality. Of note, last generation VADs were not associated with significantly better 6‐month survival (P = 0.59). Patients without the aforementioned risk factors could yield a survival of 79.2% at 6 months. This single‐center experience shows that VAD implantation in hemodynamically unstable patients generally results in poor early outcome, even in third‐generation pumps. However, avoiding the aforementioned risk factors could result in improved outcome.
Haber, Jonathan (2014) MOOCSMIT Press (Cambridge MA & London) isbn978‐0‐262‐52691‐3 227 pp £9.95 http://mitpress.mit.edu/books/moocs
Authors: Cannell Pete
Published: May 2015

Here is a very readable discussion of the mooc phenomenon – written after the author spent a year of intensive study using Massive Open Online Courses to complete the equivalent of a four‐year degree. It is recommended as an introduction to some of the issues and is also of interest to those with more knowledge of the field. Indeed, if you expect this book's content to be most relevant, I recommend you purchase a copy.

Pete Cannell
Hew, Khe Foon & Cheung, Wing Sum (2014) Using blended learningSpringer (Berlin) isbn978‐981‐287‐089‐6 120 pp £35.99 ebook (boards £44.99) http://www.springer.com/gb/book/9789812870889
Authors: Janes Diane P
Published: May 2015

Although it has a format you may need to get used to, there are plenty of interesting nuggets of blended learning information in this tiny book. It is well worth reading and you will gain much for the short investment of time. If the content of this book seems relevant to your work, I suggest that you arrange to borrow a copy for a while.

Diane P Janes
Digging deeper into learners' experiences in MOOCs: Participation in social networks outside of MOOCs, notetaking and contexts surrounding content consumption
Authors: Veletsianos George , Collier Amy , Schneider Emily
Published: May 2015

Researchers describe with increasing confidence what they observe participants doing in massive open online courses (MOOCs). However, our understanding of learner activities in open courses is limited by researchers' extensive dependence on log file analyses and clickstream data to make inferences about learner behaviors. Further, the field lacks an empirical understanding of how people experience MOOCs and why they engage in particular activities in the ways that they do. In this paper, we report three findings derived by interviewing 13 individuals about their experiences in MOOCs. We report on learner interactions in social networks outside of MOOC platforms, notetaking, and the contexts that surround content consumption. The examination and analysis of these practices contribute to a greater understanding of the MOOC phenomenon and to the limitations of clickstream‐based research methods. Based on these findings, we conclude by making pragmatic suggestions for pedagogical and technological refinements to enhance open teaching and learning.
Ultrasonographic evaluation of gastrointestinal graft‐versus‐host disease after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Nishida Mutsumi , Shigematsu Akio , Sato Megumi , Kudo Yusuke , Omotehara Satomi , Horie Tatsunori , Iwai Takahito , Endo Tomoyuki , Iguchi Akihiro , Shibuya Hitoshi , Hatanaka Kanako , Shimizu Chikara , Teshima Takanori
Published: May 2015

Gastrointestinal graft‐versus‐host disease (GI‐GVHD) is a major and life‐threatening complication of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). This study evaluated the efficacy of ultrasonography (US) for assessing and monitoring GI‐GVHD. GI tract was evaluated by US in 81 patients. US findings were positive in 43 patients, including 11 false positive, and negative in 38 patients. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of US for the diagnosis of GI‐GVHD were 100%, 78%, 74%, 100%, and 86%, respectively. Diffuse wall thickening of the ileum was the most frequent finding in patients with GI‐GVHD. Severity of GI‐GVHD was correlated with the thickness of internal low echoic layer of the wall, the echogenicity of mesenteric fat tissue, and the intensity of Doppler signaling. We classified US findings of GI‐GVHD into four US grades. There was a significant correlation between clinical stage of GI‐GVHD and the US grade. These ultrasonographic abnormalities were improved with clinical improvement of GI‐GVHD upon treatment. Thus, US is an effective and efficient non‐invasive means of identifying the extent and severity of GI‐GVHD and monitoring response to treatment.
Gene expression kinetics in individual plasmodial cells reveal alternative programs of differential regulation during commitment and differentiation
Authors: Rätzel Viktoria , Marwan Wolfgang
Published: May 2015

During its life cycle, the amoebozoon Physarum polycephalum forms multinucleate plasmodial cells that can grow to macroscopic size while maintaining a naturally synchronous population of nuclei. Sporulation‐competent plasmodia were stimulated through photoactivation of the phytochrome photoreceptor and the expression of sporulation marker genes was analyzed quantitatively by repeatedly taking samples of the same plasmodial cell at successive time points after the stimulus pulse. Principal component analysis of the gene expression data revealed that plasmodial cells take different trajectories leading to cell fate decision and differentiation and suggested that averaging over individual cells is inappropriate. Queries for genes with pairwise correlated expression kinetics revealed qualitatively different patterns of co‐regulation, indicating that alternative programs of differential regulation are operational in individual plasmodial cells. At the single cell level, the response to stimulation of a non‐sporulating mutant was qualitatively different as compared to the wild type with respect to the differentially regulated genes and their patterns of co‐regulation. The observation of individual differences during commitment and differentiation supports the concept of a Waddington‐type quasipotential landscape for the regulatory control of cell differentiation. Comparison of wild type and sporulation mutant data further supports the idea that mutations may impact the topology of this landscape.
Dystopian Social Theory and Education
Authors: Warmington Paul
Published: May 2015

In this article Paul Warmington examines the dystopian analyses pervading recent work by David Blacker, John Marsh, and Pauline Lipman. Their unsettling depictions of education under late capitalism bear witness to irreversible economic and environmental malaise, the colonization of education by neoliberalism, and the unsustainability of faith in education as the driver of economic security and social mobility. In reality, our education systems are now barely able to mask the fact that increasing numbers of people are being fitted for dispensability, that is, elimination from the socio‐educational mainstream. These three authors return neo‐Marxist structural theory to us in chastened form. They acknowledge the lessons of cultural studies, feminism, and critical theories of race, but they are unafraid to suggest that correspondence, determinism, and pessimism may again need to enter our theoretical worldviews. However, their pessimism has political value. Rather than defeating us, it may become the imperative for political and educational change.