bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rare-earth metal-mediated PhCN insertion into N,N-bis(trimethylsilyl)naphthalene-1,8-diamido dianion – a synthetic approach to complexes coordinated by ansa-bridged amido-amidinato ligand
Authors: Lyubov Dmitry M. , Cherkasov Anton V. , Fukin Georgy K. , Lyssenko Konstantin A. , Rychagova Elena A. , Ketkov Sergey Yu. , Trifonov Alexander A.
Published: November 2017

We report the first example of rare earth metal-mediated insertion of PhCN into Si–N bonds with the formation of an amidinato moiety.
Photoswitchable nonlinear optical properties of metal complexes
Authors: Xue Xiaonan , Wang Huarui , Han Yanbing , Hou Hongwei
Published: November 2017

Incorporating photosensitive molecules into the organic/inorganic hybrid materials can contribute to forming photoresponsive systems.
Selective C–H bond electro-oxidation of benzylic acetates and alcohols to benzaldehydes
Authors: Barone Mateus R. , Jones Alan M.
Published: November 2017

A method for the electrosynthesis of aldehydes is presented.
Na2S-mediated synthesis of terminal alkynes from gem-dibromoalkenes
Authors: Singh Radhey M. , Nandini Durgesh , Bharadwaj Kishor Chandra , Gupta Tanu , Singh Raj Pal
Published: November 2017

The Na2S-mediated facile synthesis of terminal alkynes from gem-dibromoalkenes, at 20/40 °C under open flask conditions has been developed.
Congenital Rubella Syndrome Screening for Newborn in Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Triono Agung , Candrawati Oktania , Sudarman Kartono , Intansari Umi , Haksari Ekawaty , Soenarto Srisupar , Herini Elisabeth
Published: November 2017

Background Rubella infection in pregnancy can cause congenital rubella syndrome (CRS), and one common defect of CRS is hearing loss. However, hearing screening is not routinely performed in Indonesia. While the number of reported cases of CRS in Indonesia is increasing, it is still difficult to identify all CRS cases. This study aims to identify CRS cases through a newborn hearing screening.

Materials and Methods This descriptive study was conducted at Dr. Sardjito Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The subjects were recruited from September 1, 2013 to November 19, 2013. The study period was from September 1, 2013 to January 31, 2014. Newborn subjects underwent the first otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) test. Subjects with the first OAEs test REFER results underwent the second OAEs test 2 months later. Subjects with REFER result in the second OAEs test then underwent auditory brainstem response (ABR) and detection of rubella IgM in blood serum.

Result There were 151 subjects who underwent the first OAEs test. Ninety subjects (60%) had REFER results, but only 29 subjects underwent the second OAEs test. In the second OAEs test, 9/151 (5%) subjects were REFER. There were 6/151 (3.9%) subjects who underwent ABR and all subjects had sensory neural hearing loss. Of them, one subject was positive for rubella IgM with a titer of 11.86 at 2.5 months of age. We found nine suspected CRS cases, one clinically-confirmed and one laboratory-confirmed CRS case. The incidence of laboratory-confirmed CRS was 1/151 (6.62/1,000) live births.

Conclusion Due to the low incidence we found and the cost of screening, we recommend to strengthen surveillance of CRS. All infants less than 1 year of age with suspected CRS should be checked with rubella IgM to identify CRS cases. While universal newborn hearing screening is not mandatory in Indonesia, targeted newborn hearing screening should be performed to detect children with permanent congenital hearing loss due to CRS.
Electrons from stable gas crystals lower the threshold in particle detection
Authors: Majors J. H.
Published: November 2017

A method for growing pure noble gas crystals in an apparatus with high-sensitivity electron detection demonstrates a new approach to low-threshold particle detection with axions in mind.
Visual but not motor processes predict simple visuomotor reaction time of badminton players
Authors: Hülsdünker Thorben , Strüder Heiko K. , Mierau Andreas
Published: November 2017

The athlete's brain exhibits significant functional adaptations that facilitate visuomotor reaction performance. However, it is currently unclear if the same neurophysiological processes that differentiate athletes from non‐athletes also determine performance within a homogeneous group of athletes. This information can provide valuable help for athletes and coaches aiming to optimize existing training regimes. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the neurophysiological correlates of visuomotor reaction performance in a group of skilled athletes. In 36 skilled badminton athletes, electroencephalography (EEG) was used to investigate pattern reversal and motion onset visual‐evoked potentials (VEPs) as well as visuomotor reaction time (VMRT) during a simple reaction task. Stimulus‐locked and response‐locked event‐related potentials (ERPs) in visual and motor regions as well as the onset of muscle activation (EMG onset) were determined. Correlation and multiple regression analyses identified the neurophysiological parameters predicting EMG onset and VMRT. For pattern reversal stimuli, the P100 latency and age best predicted EMG onset (r = 0.43; p = .003) and VMRT (r = 0.62; p = .001). In the motion onset experiment, EMG onset (r = 0.80; p < .001) and VMRT (r = 0.78; p < .001) were predicted by N2 latency and age. In both conditions, cortical potentials in motor regions were not correlated with EMG onset or VMRT. It is concluded that previously identified neurophysiological parameters differentiating athletes from non‐athletes do not necessarily determine performance within a homogeneous group of athletes. Specifically, the speed of visual perception/processing predicts EMG onset and VMRT in skilled badminton players while motor‐related processes, although differentiating athletes from non‐athletes, are not associated simple with visuomotor reaction performance.
Exploring the optical behaviour of a Type Iax supernova SN 2014dt
Authors: Singh Mridweeka , Misra Kuntal , Sahu D K , Dastidar Raya , Gangopadhyay Anjasha , Bose Subhash , Srivastav Shubham , Anupama G C , Chakradhari N K , Kumar Brajesh , Kumar Brijesh , Pandey S B
Published: November 2017

We present optical photometric (up to ∼410 d since Bmax) and spectroscopic (up to ∼157 d since Bmax) observations of a Type Iax supernova (SN) 2014dt located in M61. SN 2014dt is one of the brightest and closest (D ∼ 20 Mpc) discovered Type Iax SN. It best matches the light-curve evolution of SN 2005hk and reaches a peak magnitude of MB ∼ −18.13 ± 0.04 mag with Δm15 ∼ 1.35 ± 0.06 mag. The early spectra of SN 2014dt are similar to other Type Iax SNe, whereas the nebular spectrum at 157 d is dominated by narrow emission features with less blending as compared to SNe 2008ge and 2012Z. The ejecta velocities are between 5000 and 1000 km s−1, which also confirms the low-energy budget of Type Iax SN 2014dt compared to normal Type Ia SNe. Using the peak bolometric luminosity of SN 2005hk, we estimate the 56Ni mass of ∼0.14 M⊙. The striking similarity between SN 2014dt and SN 2005hk implies that a comparable amount of 56Ni would have been synthesized in the explosion of SN 2014dt.
Unilesional Follicular Mycosis Fungoides: Report of 6 Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: Magro Cynthia M. , Telang Gladys H. , Momtahen Shabnam
Published: November 2017

Unilesional follicular mycosis fungoides (MF) is a rare variant of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma characterized by selective involvement of the hair follicles by neoplastic T lymphocytes presenting initially as a solitary lesion occupying less than 5% of the body surface; there are 22 previous reported cases. We describe 6 patients with this rare variant of MF, all males (age range 6–64 years; mean age: 28 years) presenting with a solitary lesion primarily on the face and scalp except 1 patient who presented with a truncal lesion. All the patients had the lesions for at least a few months. The lesions were associated with follicular prominence and hair loss. In each, the biopsies showed an atypical folliculotropic lymphocytic infiltrate accompanied by follicular mucinosis in certain cases. The infiltrate involved the lower isthmic part of the follicle, and in 1 case, there was an alopecia areata-like neoplastic lymphomatoid bulbitis. There was no evidence of large cell transformation nor was there a significant degree of infiltration of the interfollicular dermis or epidermis. Higher magnification disclosed marked cerebriform atypia amidst the lymphocytes. Phenotypic studies demonstrated a high CD4 to CD8 ratio in excess of 5 with a significant loss of CD7. One patient developed additional similar lesions involving the thigh and buttock after a period of at least 3–4 years of untreated unilesional MF. Unilesional follicular MF is a potentially curable form of MF with a young male predilection. Early diagnosis and treatment intervention likely define a cornerstone for ensuring the best patient outcome and preventing clinical evolution to either tumor stage MF and or multilesional MF.
Patient Factors Associated With the Decision to Transfer Adult Patients From a Pediatric Emergency Department for Definitive Care
Authors: Kornblith Aaron E. , Foster Ashley A. , Cho Christine S. , Wang Ralph C. , Jaffe David M.
Published: November 2017

Objective

Adults presenting to pediatric emergency departments are transferred to general emergency departments in proportions between 20% and 60%. How illness severity is related to the decision to transfer is poorly understood. We compared the proportion of adults with emergent and nonemergent conditions with respect to their final disposition. We also determined characteristics associated with transfer.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of the electronic medical record and identified all patients 25 years and older presenting to a large urban freestanding pediatric emergency department from 2008 to 2013. We collected demographic and clinical information and used a preexisting algorithm to classify visits as emergent or nonemergent. We created a multivariate logistical regression model to determine independent variables associated with transfer.

Results

Among 246,694 encounters, 1182 (0.5%) patients were older than 25 years. We excluded 402 (34%) because they were not categorized. Of the 780 categorized, 32% had an emergent and 68% had a nonemergent condition. Only 22% were transferred. Compared with nonurgent patients, the proportion transferred was twice as high for emergent patients (36% vs 15%), but even for emergent patients, most (63%) were retained for definitive care and/or disposition. Emergent diagnosis, age 45 to 64 years, and higher triage acuity were independently associated with the decision to transfer.

Conclusion

Regardless of illness severity, a minority of adult patients were transferred away for definitive care. Factors independently associated with transfer were emergent condition, higher triage acuity, and older age.
Accelerating Evolutionary Hill Climbs in Parallel Turbidostats
Authors: Takahashi Christopher N. , Zaman Luis , Klavins Eric
Published: November 2017

Evolution has been used to address many engineering problems. Within the context of metabolic engineering and synthetic biology, directed evolution has natural appli-cations. However, most research concerning optimizing microbial evolution has been focused on library generation and screening, while accelerating evolutionary hill climbs and been largely ignored. Here, we develop a model to explore how population struc-ture can accelerate evolutionary hill climbs. We show that by adjusting the population size, environmental challenge, and meta-population dynamics that the rate of evolution can be accelerated in parallel turbidostats. Our analyses leads to two surprising results: small populations are favored over conventionally large microbial populations, and propagating modest fitness improvements is favored over propagating mutants with large beneficial mutations. When combined with rational design and other optimization techniques our theory can accelerate strain development for applications such as consolidated bioprocessing, and bioremidation systems.
Metabolic reprogramming ensures cancer cell survival despite oncogenic signaling blockade
Authors: Lue Hui-wen , Podolak Jennifer , Kolahi Kevin , Cheng Larry , Rao Soumya , Garg Devin , Xue Chang-Hui , Rantala Juha K. , Tyner Jeffrey W. , Thornburg Kent L. , Martinez-Acevedo Ann , Liu Jen-Jane , Amling Christopher L. , Truillet Charles , Louie Sharon M. , Anderson Kimberly E. , Evans Michael J. , O'Donnell Valerie B. , Nomura Daniel K. , Drake Justin M. , Ritz Anna , Thomas George V.
Published: November 2017

There is limited knowledge about the metabolic reprogramming induced by cancer therapies and how this contributes to therapeutic resistance. Here we show that although inhibition of PI3K–AKT–mTOR signaling markedly decreased glycolysis and restrained tumor growth, these signaling and metabolic restrictions triggered autophagy, which supplied the metabolites required for the maintenance of mitochondrial respiration and redox homeostasis. Specifically, we found that survival of cancer cells was critically dependent on phospholipase A2 (PLA2) to mobilize lysophospholipids and free fatty acids to sustain fatty acid oxidation and oxidative phosphorylation. Consistent with this, we observed significantly increased lipid droplets, with subsequent mobilization to mitochondria. These changes were abrogated in cells deficient for the essential autophagy gene ATG5. Accordingly, inhibition of PLA2 significantly decreased lipid droplets, decreased oxidative phosphorylation, and increased apoptosis. Together, these results describe how treatment-induced autophagy provides nutrients for cancer cell survival and identifies novel cotreatment strategies to override this survival advantage.
The secreted neurotrophin Spätzle 3 promotes glial morphogenesis and supports neuronal survival and function
Authors: Coutinho-Budd Jaeda C. , Sheehan Amy E. , Freeman Marc R.
Published: November 2017

Most glial functions depend on establishing intimate morphological relationships with neurons. Significant progress has been made in understanding neuron–glia signaling at synaptic and axonal contacts, but how glia support neuronal cell bodies is unclear. Here we explored the growth and functions of Drosophila cortex glia (which associate almost exclusively with neuronal cell bodies) to understand glia–soma interactions. We show that cortex glia tile with one another and with astrocytes to establish unique central nervous system (CNS) spatial domains that actively restrict glial growth, and selective ablation of cortex glia causes animal lethality. In an RNAi-based screen, we identified αSNAP (soluble NSF [N-ethylmalemeide-sensitive factor] attachment protein α) and several components of vesicle fusion and recycling machinery as essential for the maintenance of cortex glial morphology and continued contact with neurons. Interestingly, loss of the secreted neurotrophin Spätzle 3 (Spz3) phenocopied αSNAP phenotypes, which included loss of glial ensheathment of neuron cell bodies, increased neuronal cell death, and defects in animal behavior. Rescue experiments suggest that Spz3 can exert these effects only over very short distances. This work identifies essential roles for glial ensheathment of neuronal cell bodies in CNS homeostasis as well as Spz3 as a novel signaling factor required for maintenance of cortex glial morphology and neuron–glia contact.
A cytoplasmic COMPASS is necessary for cell survival and triple-negative breast cancer pathogenesis by regulating metabolism
Authors: Wang Lu , Collings Clayton K. , Zhao Zibo , Cozzolino Kira Alia , Ma Quanhong , Liang Kaiwei , Marshall Stacy A. , Sze Christie C. , Hashizume Rintaro , Savas Jeffrey Nicholas , Shilatifard Ali
Published: November 2017

Mutations and translocations within the COMPASS (complex of proteins associated with Set1) family of histone lysine methyltransferases are associated with a large number of human diseases, including cancer. Here we report that SET1B/COMPASS, which is essential for cell survival, surprisingly has a cytoplasmic variant. SET1B, but not its SET domain, is critical for maintaining cell viability, indicating a novel catalytic-independent role of SET1B/COMPASS. Loss of SET1B or its unique cytoplasmic-interacting protein, BOD1, leads to up-regulation of expression of numerous genes modulating fatty acid metabolism, including ADIPOR1 (adiponectin receptor 1), COX7C, SDC4, and COQ7. Our detailed molecular studies identify ADIPOR1 signaling, which is inactivated in both obesity and human cancers, as a key target of SET1B/COMPASS. Collectively, our study reveals a cytoplasmic function for a member of the COMPASS family, which could be harnessed for therapeutic regulation of signaling in human diseases, including cancer.
Participant perceptions of an individualised physical activity anti-smoking intervention
Authors: Hanlon Clare , Morris Tony , O’Sullivan Grant Anthony
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore a health program comprising the individual experiences, successes and setbacks of adults in an individually tailored, community-based smoking intervention and physical activity program. The program incorporated physical activity consultation (PAC) and phone support from the well-established Quit smoking cessation program, and in partnership with Melton City Council, Victoria, Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

Expert facilitators in PAC led the intervention. The program was titled “ActivePlus” and the intervention was conducted for eight weeks. Post-program facilitator guidance continued for three weeks and follow-up on participants was conducted at week 24. Five participants continued to week 24 and were interviewed. Three case descriptions were chosen as a sample to analyse using descriptive content analysis to illustrate the range of experiences, successes and setbacks reported by these individual participants.

Findings

Smoking reduction/cessation results varied among cases, but increases in PA were sustained. Participants valued the expert support of PAC facilitators, though usage and appraisal of Quit telephone smoking cessation services was mixed. The individually tailored PAC was valued by participants, who felt it also contributed to their smoking reduction/cessation goals.

Practical implications

In future, the intervention would benefit from the same ongoing support in smoking cessation as the PAC. Practitioners should consider the benefit of including PAC in smoking cessation interventions. However, such interventions should be individually tailored and include facilitation by a PAC and a smoking cessation expert.

Originality/value

Few studies have looked at completely individualised smoking cessation interventions using PAC. The current study also addresses the recommendations of previous research to investigate the use of more intense PA intervention supported by expert PAC facilitation.
Abandoned pastures cannot spontaneously recover the attributes of old‐growth savannas
Authors: Cava Mário G. B. , Pilon Natashi A. L. , Ribeiro Milton Cezar , Durigan Giselda
Published: November 2017

Active restoration strategies have been recommended to recover Neotropical savannas in abandoned lands, but no studies have investigated the trajectories and speeds of spontaneous recovery for these systems. Research into the dynamics of degraded savannas is urgently needed to guide restoration decision making.

We analysed the dynamics of secondary savannas in the Brazilian Cerrado by sampling 29 abandoned pastures (time since abandonment ranging from 3 to 25 years) and applying the space‐for‐time substitution method. We modelled the temporal changes in plant community attributes and estimated the time (years) required for these attributes to match those of two reference ecosystems (three replicates each), old‐growth savanna and a forest‐type savanna, which had encroached following fire suppression (encroached savanna). We also analysed the plant community composition of the study sites.

Our models showed that tree canopy cover, richness and density rapidly increased with time since pasture abandonment, easily surpassing the values of the old‐growth savanna (28 years) and reaching the values of encroached savanna 49 years after abandonment. The cover and richness of the ground layer increased at a much slower pace. Since the species in this layer, including the exotic grasses, are shade intolerant, they will be eliminated by canopy closure over time.

Up to 25 years after abandonment, secondary savannas continued to lack many (37%) old‐growth savanna species, mostly from the ground layer (82% of grasses absent). This period was also not sufficient for the secondary savannas to become floristically similar to the encroached savannas, which are dominated by shade‐tolerant tree species.

Synthesis and applications. Despite the reported high natural regeneration of Neotropical savanna vegetation, abandoned pastures will not spontaneously return to an old‐growth savanna state. Protected from fire and lacking the native ground layer, the end state of secondary savannas will be a low‐diversity forest. If restoration goals include the recovery of old‐growth savanna biodiversity and structure, interventions are required to prevent woody encroachment and reintroduce native grasses, forbs and shrubs. However, if the desirable endpoint is a low‐diversity forest, passive restoration (non‐intervention) and fire protection are appropriate.
Identifying potential gaps in pesticide risk assessment: Terrestrial life stages of freshwater insects
Authors: Rasmussen Jes Jessen , Wiberg‐Larsen Peter , Baattrup‐Pedersen Annette , Bruus Marianne , Strandberg Beate , Soerensen Peter Borgen , Strandberg Morten Tune
Published: November 2017

Insecticides are important drivers of biodiversity loss and ecological impairment in freshwater ecosystems. Freshwater insects may be exposed to insecticides via water during larval/nymph stages and via air, habitats, and food during adult stages in the terrestrial environment.

The aquatic risk assessment (RA) of pesticides does not consider terrestrial life stages, and a literature review revealed that pesticide ecotoxicity data for adult freshwater insects are very scarce and outdated. Consequently, it is not possible to assess how adult freshwater insects may be protected through RA programs for terrestrial non‐target organisms.

We give guidance to generating and using of such ecotoxicity data focusing on species selection, test design and type of ecotoxicity information.

Policy implications. This commentary considers how terrestrial stages of aquatic insects are protected by pesticide risk assessment (RA) and highlights the necessity of performing holistic risk assessment, focusing on organisms and populations as supplement to current subdivisions in element‐based compartments (e.g. aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems).
Estimating muscle volume from two‐dimensional measurements: a promising method for assessment
Authors: Noble Jonathan J
Published: November 2017

This commentary is on the original article by Schless et al. on pages 81–87.
Heterozygosity–fitness correlation at the major histocompatibility complex despite low variation in Alpine ibex (Capra ibex)
Authors: Brambilla Alice , Keller Lukas , Bassano Bruno , Grossen Christine
Published: November 2017

Crucial for the long‐term survival of wild populations is their ability to fight diseases. Disease outbreaks can lead to severe population size reductions, which makes endangered and reintroduced species especially vulnerable. In vertebrates, the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) plays an important role in determining the immune response. Species that went through severe bottlenecks often show very low levels of genetic diversity at the MHC. Due to the known link between the MHC and immune response, such species are expected to be at particular risk in case of disease outbreaks. However, so far, only few studies have shown that low MHC diversity is correlated with increased disease susceptibility in species after severe bottlenecks. We investigated genetic variation at the MHC and its correlations with disease resistance and other fitness‐related traits in Alpine ibex (Capra ibex), a wild goat species that underwent a strong bottleneck in the last century and that is known to have extremely low genetic variability, both genome‐wide and at the MHC. We studied MHC variation in male ibex of Gran Paradiso National Park, the population used as a source for all postbottleneck reintroductions. We found that individual MHC heterozygosity (based on six microsatellites) was not correlated with genome‐wide neutral heterozygosity. MHC heterozygosity, but not genome‐wide heterozygosity, was positively correlated with resistance to infectious keratoconjunctivitis and with body mass. Our results show that genetic variation at the MHC plays an important role in disease resistance and, hence, should be taken into account for successfully managing species conservation.
Annual Research Review: The persistent and pervasive impact of being bullied in childhood and adolescence: implications for policy and practice
Authors: Arseneault Louise
Published: November 2017

Background

We have known for some time that being bullied was associated with children's and adolescents’ adjustment difficulties and well‐being. In recent years, we have come to recognise that the impact of childhood bullying victimisation on the development of mental health problems is more complex. This paper aims to review the evidence for an independent contribution of childhood bullying victimisation to the development of poor outcomes throughout the life span, including mental, physical and socioeconomic outcomes, and discuss the implications for policy and practice.

Findings

Existing research indicates that (a) being bullied in childhood is associated with distress and symptoms of mental health problems. This large body of evidence supports actions aimed at reducing the occurrence of bullying behaviours; (b) the consequences of childhood bullying victimisation can persist up to midlife and, in addition to mental health, can impact physical and socioeconomic outcomes. These new findings indicate that interventions should also focus on supporting victims of bullying and helping them build resilience; (c) research has identified some factors that predispose children to be targeted by bullying behaviours. These studies suggest that public health interventions could aim at preventing children from becoming the target of bullying behaviours from an early age.

Conclusions

It is a truism to emphasise that further work is needed to understand why and how young people's aspirations are often cut short by this all too common adverse social experience. In parallel, we must develop effective strategies to tackle this form of abuse and its consequences for the victims. Addressing bullying in childhood could not only reduce children's and adolescents’ mental health symptoms but also prevent psychiatric and socioeconomic difficulties up to adulthood and reduce considerable costs for society.
Variability in iodine in temperate seaweeds and iodine accumulation kinetics of Fucus vesiculosus and Laminaria digitata (Phaeophyceae, Ochrophyta)
Authors: Nitschke Udo , Walsh Philip , McDaid Jade , Stengel Dagmar B.
Published: November 2017

The biogeochemistry of iodine in temperate coastal ecosystems is largely mediated by macroalgae, which act as a major biological sink and source of iodine. Their capacity to accumulate, retain and release iodine has been associated with abiotic and biotic stressors, but quantitative information is limited. We evaluated the seasonal iodine retention capacity of eleven macroalgal species belonging to different systematic groups, collected from two sites in Ireland. Iodine accumulation and retention were then further quantified in Fucus vesiculosus and Laminaria digitata in relation to I− concentrations in seawater and temperature. In general, iodine contents were ~101–102 μmol · (g dw)−1 for Laminariales, 100–101 μmol · (g dw)−1 for Fucales, 10−1–100 μmol · (g dw)−1 for Rhodophyta, and 10−1 μmol · (g dw)−1 for Chlorophyta. Typically, algal iodine contents were above average in winter and below average in summer. Iodine accumulation in F. vesiculosus and L. digitata depended on I− availability and followed the Michaelis‐Menten kinetic. The ratio of maximum accumulation rate to half accumulation coefficient (ρmax: Kt) was 2.4 times higher for F. vesiculosus than for L. digitata, suggesting that F. vesiculosus was more efficient in iodine accumulation. Both species exhibited a temperature‐dependent net loss of iodine, and only an exposure to sufficient external I− concentrations compensated for this loss. This study revealed that both environmental (e.g., I− in seawater, temperature) and organismal (e.g., the status of the iodine storage pool) variables determine retention and variability in iodine in temperate seaweeds.
Ischemic Optic Neuropathy in a Dog with Acute Bilateral Blindness and Primary Systemic Hypertension
Authors: Mari L. , Stavinohova R. , Dominguez E. , Premont J. , Oliver J. , De Risio L.
Published: November 2017

A 6‐year‐old neutered female Jack Russell terrier was investigated for sudden onset prechiasmatic bilateral blindness, left circling, reduced proprioception in the right pelvic limb and right facial allodynia. Electroretinography was normal. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination revealed that the right optic nerve and the optic chiasm were hyperintense on diffusion weighted imaging and hypointense on apparent diffusion coefficient map consistent with ischemic optic neuropathy. A concurrent lacunar infarct was detected in the left rostral colliculus. Primary systemic hypertension was diagnosed based on blood pressure measurement and no detectable abnormalities on hematology, comprehensive serum biochemistry, urinalysis including protein/creatinine and cortisol/creatinine ratios and thoracic/abdominal imaging. Prednisolone for 10 days and amlodipine long‐term were administered. Vision was not recovered after 7 months. Repeat MRI supported the diagnosis of ischemic lesions and revealed a recent striatocapsular infarct. Ischemic optic neuropathy is a well‐recognized cause of blindness in humans and should be included as a differential diagnosis for acute prechiasmatic blindness in dogs.
Making sense of language in the light of evolution
Authors: Bolhuis Johan J.
Published: November 2017

Inquiry into language evolution has been controversial, mainly because there is no consensus as to the nature of both ‘evolution’ and ‘language.’ Berwick and Chomsky make sense of the evolution of language by treating it as a biological phenomenon. In contrast to functional characterizations of language as ‘communication’ or ‘speech,’ the authors define it as, essentially, a mind‐internal computational mechanism. Within their minimalist approach, hierarchical syntactic structure is achieved through the recursive application of a basic operation called ‘Merge.’ The simplicity of the basic operation is consistent with archeological evidence suggesting an evolutionary recent origin of language.
Overexpression of a newly identified d‐amino acid transaminase in Mycobacterium smegmatis complements glutamate racemase deletion
Authors: Mortuza Roman , Aung Htin Lin , Taiaroa George , Opel‐Reading Helen K. , Kleffmann Torsten , Cook Gregory M. , Krause Kurt L.
Published: November 2017

Glutamate racemase (MurI) has been proposed as a target for anti‐tuberculosis drug development based on the inability of ΔmurI mutants of Mycobacterium smegmatis to grow in the absence of d‐glutamate. In this communication, we identify ΔmurI suppressor mutants that are detected during prolonged incubation. Whole genome sequencing of these ΔmurI suppressor mutants identified the presence of a SNP, located in the promoter region of MSMEG_5795. RT‐qPCR and transcriptional fusion analyses revealed that the ΔmurI suppressor mutant overexpressed MSMEG_5795 14‐fold compared to the isogenic wild‐type. MSMEG_5795, which is annotated as 4‐amino‐4‐deoxychorismate lyase (ADCL) but which also has homology to d‐amino acid transaminase (d‐AAT), was expressed, purified and found to have d‐AAT activity and to be capable of producing d‐glutamate from d‐alanine. Consistent with its d‐amino acid transaminase function, overexpressed MSMEG_5795 is able to complement both ΔmurI deletion mutants and alanine racemase (Δalr) deletion mutants, thus confirming a multifunctional role for this enzyme in M. smegmatis.
Fusion First
Authors: Kleinschmidt Shieva
Published: November 2017

Logics of part/whole relations frequently takeparthoodorproper parthoodas primitive, defining the remaining mereological properties and relations in terms of them. I argue from considerations involving Weak Supplementation for the conclusion that we should takefusionas our mereological primitive. I point out that the intuitions supporting Weak Supplementation also support a stronger principle, Weak Supplementation of Pluralities, and that the principle can only do the work demanded by our intuitions when formulated in terms of a notion offusionthat cannot be defined merely in terms of mereological properties and relations, logic, and a membership relation. So, insofar as we think any definition offusionmust be so restricted, we have motivation to takefusionas primitive; further, we have greater insight into the motivation for our supplementation principle and which version of that principle we ought to endorse.
The design of a Social Cost‐Benefit Analysis of preventive interventions for toxoplasmosis: An example of the One Health approach
Authors: Suijkerbuijk A. W. M. , van Gils P. F. , Bonačić Marinović A. A. , Feenstra T. L. , Kortbeek L. M. , Mangen M.‐J. J. , Opsteegh M. , de Wit G. A. , van der Giessen J. W. B.
Published: November 2017

Toxoplasma gondiiinfections cause a large disease burden in the Netherlands, with an estimated health loss of 1,900 Disability Adjusted Life Years and a cost‐of‐illness estimated at €44 million annually. Infections in humans occur via exposure to oocysts in the environment and after eating undercooked meat containing tissue cysts, leading to asymptomatic or mild symptoms, but potentially leading to the development of ocular toxoplasmosis. Infection in pregnant women can lead to stillbirth and disorders in newborns. At present, prevention is only targeted at pregnant women. Cat vaccination, freezing of meat destined for undercooked consumption and enhancing biosecurity in pig husbandries are possible interventions to prevent toxoplasmosis. As these interventions bear costs for sectors in society that differ from those profiting from the benefits, we perform a social cost‐benefit analysis (SCBA). In anSCBA, costs and benefits of societal domains affected by the interventions are identified, making explicit which stakeholder pays and who benefits. Using an epidemiological model, we consider transmission ofT. gondiiafter vaccination of all owned cats or cats at livestock farms. To identify relevant high‐risk meat products that will be eaten undercooked, a quantitative microbial risk assessment model developed to attribute predictedT. gondiiinfections to specific meat products will be used. In addition, we evaluate serological monitoring of pigs at slaughter followed by an audit and tailor made advice for farmers in case positive results were found. The benefits will be modelled stochastically as reduction inDALYs and monetized in Euro's following reference prices forDALYs. If the balance of total costs and benefits is positive, this will lend support to implementation of these preventive interventions at the societal level. Ultimately, theSCBAwill provide guidance to policy makers on the most optimal intervention measures to reduce the disease burden ofT. gondiiin the Netherlands.
Tribological Behavior of Al–20Si–5Fe–2Ni Alloy at Elevated Temperatures Under Dry Sliding
Authors: Tan Hui , Cheng Jun , Wang Shuai , Zhu Shengyu , Yu Yuan , Qiao Zhuhui , Yang Jun
Published: November 2017

Wear-resistant aluminum alloys have enormous potential applications. In this paper, the Al–20Si–5Fe–2Ni alloy was fabricated by hot-pressed sintering, and its dry sliding wear behavior was investigated from 25 °C to 500 °C sliding against Al2O3 ceramic and AISI 52100 steel. The microstructure, phase, high temperature hardness, and worn surface of the sintered alloy were examined. The results indicate that the uniform distribution of Si particles and Al5FeSi intermetallic in the Al matrix contribute to its superior tribological properties. Additionally, the correlation of the tribological behavior of the alloy with the sliding testing conditions was studied, and its wear mechanism was discussed.
Cooperative Output Regulation of Multi-Agent Systems With Switched Leader Dynamics via Smooth Switching
Authors: Yuan Chengzhi , Wu Fen , Duan Chang
Published: November 2017

This paper deals with the leader-following cooperative output regulation problem for heterogeneous multi-agent systems by considering a switched leader dynamics. The switched leader dynamics is composed by multiple linear models and a switching rule governing the switches among them, which is capable of generating more diverse and sophisticated reference signals so as to enhance the multi-agent system’s capability in coping with more complicated coordination tasks. A novel distributed switching control scheme, namely, the smooth switching control strategy, is proposed to achieve cooperative output regulation performance. Distributed switching stability of the overall network is established using multiple Lyapunov functions from the switching control theory. Moreover, under the proposed design framework, the overall cooperative switching output regulation problem can be decomposed into several independent switching stabilization subproblems, and the associated switching control synthesis conditions for each subproblems are formulated as a set of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) plus linear algebraic equations. As a result, stabilizing switching rules for the leader and distributed switching protocols for the follower agents can be jointly synthesized via semi-definite programming. A numerical example has been used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
A Finite-Impulse-Response-Based Approach to Control Acoustic-Caused Probe-Vibration in Atomic Force Microscope Imaging
Authors: Yi Sicheng , Zou Qingze
Published: November 2017

In this paper, we propose a finite-impulse-response (FIR)-based feedforward control approach to mitigate the acoustic-caused probe vibration during atomic force microscope (AFM) imaging. Compensation for the extraneous probe vibration is needed to avoid the adverse effects of environmental disturbances such as acoustic noise on AFM imaging, nanomechanical characterization, and nanomanipulation. Particularly, residual noise still exists even though conventional passive noise cancellation apparatus has been employed. The proposed technique exploits a data-driven approach to capture both the noise propagation dynamics and the noise cancellation dynamics in the controller design, and is illustrated through the experimental implementation in AFM imaging application.
Simulated Annealing-Based Optimal PID Controller Design: A Case Study on Nonlinear Quadcopter Dynamics
Authors: Nemirsky Kristofer Kevin , Turkoglu Kamran
Published: November 2017

In this thesis, the history and evolution of rotor aircraft with simulated annealing-based PID application were reviewed and quadcopter dynamics are presented. The dynamics of a quadcopter were then modeled, analyzed, and linearized. A cascaded loop architecture with PID controllers was used to stabilize the plant dynamics, which was improved upon through the application of simulated annealing (SA). A Simulink model was developed to test the controllers and verify the functionality of the proposed control system design. In addition, the data that the Simulink model provided were compared with flight data to present the validity of derived dynamics as a proper mathematical model representing the true dynamics of the quadcopter system. Then, the SA-based global optimization procedure was applied to obtain optimized PID parameters. It was observed that the tuned gains through the SA algorithm produced a better performing PID controller than the original manually tuned one. Next, we investigated the uncertain dynamics of the quadcopter setup. After adding uncertainty to the gyroscopic effects associated with pitch-and-roll rate dynamics, the controllers were shown to be robust against the added uncertainty. A discussion follows to summarize SA-based algorithm PID controller design and performance outcomes. Lastly, future work on SA application on multi-input-multi-output (MIMO) systems is briefly discussed.
Application of Robust-Adaptive Sliding Mode Control to the Speed Regulation of a Brushless AC Actuator System
Authors: Cho Kwanghyeon , Candelino Nicholas , Jalili Nader
Published: November 2017

In response to current trends in robotic systems, particularly those relevant to the area of actuators for use in rovers and space manipulators, researchers at Northeastern University have developed a precision prototype of a novel compact Brushless AC/gear-bearing actuator system in collaboration with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. As part of the preliminary investigations into the functional behavior and potential applications for this device, efforts have been made toward characterizing the open-loop behavior and realizing a control system to provide reliable closed-loop performance. To date, a preliminary open-loop model of the prototype has been developed and several active nonlinearities have been identified. As a first approach toward the closed-loop control of this system, a simplified linear model of the open-loop plant has been adopted which regards all nonlinearities and unidentified sources of error as unknown disturbances and parameter uncertainties. Under this paradigm, there is a clear need for a robust adaptive control scheme to handle both the resulting uncertainties and potential for variations during warm-up, break-in, and regular operational phases. The control technique known as Sliding Mode Control with Perturbation Estimation (SMCPE) is well suited to meet these needs, and is further capable of rejecting the ‘disturbances’ resulting from the model simplification. In this work, the nonlinear and simplified open-loop models are presented, as well as the relevant control theory and SMCPE controller design. Utilizing set-point regulation as a motivating example, results from numerical simulations and real-time control experiments are presented from which it is concluded that SMCPE provides both the desired robustness and disturbance rejection properties required to achieve satisfactory operation of the gear-bearing actuator in a closed-loop speed control mode.
The Development of High Speed Virtual Milling Test
Authors: Miklos Akos , Takacs Denes , Wohlfart Richard , Porempovics Gabor , Molnar Tamas G. , Bachrathy Daniel , Toth Andras , Stepan Gabor
Published: November 2017

The concept of a hardware-in-the-loop experiment for high speed milling is introduced in this paper. The tool-workpiece interaction is virtually implemented in the experiment while the milling machine with the spindle is used as real element. In this paper, the basic components of the experiment are presented, namely, a contactless displacement sensor, a computational algorithm of the cutting force and a contactless electromagnetic actuator are discussed. Experiments on the prototype of the electromagnetic actuator are also shown to illustrate the potential of the concept. A feasibility study of the hardware-in-the-loop experiment is given, where the effect of the time delay included in the experiment is investigated.
Motion Planning of the Sit to Stand Movement for Powered Lower Limb Orthoses
Authors: Narvaez-Aroche Octavio , Packard Andrew , Arcak Murat
Published: November 2017

We propose a generalizable strategy for planning the sit to stand movement of a powered lower limb orthosis and its user. Modeling the system as a three rigid link planar robot, we rely on its kinematic equations to obtain a set of transformations that allows us to compute reference trajectories for the angular positions of the links, starting from a desired kinematic behavior for the center of mass of the robot and the angular position of link 2 relative to link 1; as we consider them more suitable to define for achieving a safe sit to stand transition. We then proceed to design a tracking controller via feedback linearization and solve a constrained least-squares program to address the control allocation problem from including the loads applied by the arms of the user as inputs. We simulate two relevant STS movements to illustrate the system tracking the reference trajectories generated with our strategy, in the presence of parameter uncertainty.
Spatial Filter Design for Dual-Stage Systems
Authors: Mitrovic Aleksandra , Leang Kam K. , Clayton Garrett M.
Published: November 2017

Increasing demand for high precision positioning systems has motivated significant research in this field. Within this field, dual-stage nanopositioning systems have the unique potential to offer high-speed and long-range positioning by coupling a short-range, high-speed actuator with a long-range, low-speed actuator. In this paper, design considerations for a spatial filter are presented. The spatial filter allows for control allocation based on range of the signal as opposed to more commonly used frequency-based control allocation. In order to understand the spatial filtering approach more fully, this paper analyzes the filter in detail to understand limitations and give the user a more clear understanding of the approach. Simulation results are included to illustrate aspects of the discussion.
A Communication-Free Decentralized Power Control Approach for Power Loss Minimization in Islanded Microgrids Using Extremum Seeking
Authors: Shieh Su-Yang , Ersal Tulga , Peng Huei
Published: November 2017

This paper considers islanded microgrids and is motivated by the need for decentralized control strategies with minimal communication among grid components to support a robust and plug-and-play operation. We focus on the problem of power allocation among the distributed generation units (DGs) to maintain low distribution power loss in the grid and develop a communication-free distributed power control approach for power loss minimization based on the extremum-seeking (ES) method. In this approach, the DGs implement ES simultaneously and separately to minimize their current outputs by controlling the active power. The total power loss is thus reduced and no grid structure information or communication is needed in the optimization process. The existence of a Nash equilibrium in the resulting non-cooperative game is proved. Numerical simulations are conducted to demonstrate the performance of the proposed communication-free power control approach and show that it is suitable for maintaining low power loss under different operating conditions in a plug-and-play manner.