bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel PITX2 mutation in non‐syndromic orodental anomalies
Authors: Intarak N , Theerapanon T , Ittiwut C , Suphapeetiporn K , Porntaveetus T , Shotelersuk V
Published: November 2017

Objective

To identify orodental characteristics and genetic aetiology of a family affected with non‐syndromic orodental anomalies.

Subjects and Methods

Physical and oral features were characterised. DNA was collected from an affected Thai family. Whole‐exome sequencing was employed to identify the pathogenic variants associated with inherited orodental anomalies. The presence of the identified mutation was confirmed by Sanger sequencing.

Results

We observed unique orodental manifestations including oligodontia, retained primary teeth, taurodont molars, peg‐shaped maxillary central incisors, high attached frenum with nodule and midline diastema in the proband and her mother. Mutation analyses revealed a novel heterozygous frameshift deletion, c.573_574delCA, p.L193QfsX5, in exon 5 of PITX2A in affected family members. The amino acid alterations, localised in the transcriptional activation domain 2 in the C‐terminus of PITX2, were evolutionarily conserved. Mutations in PITX2 have been associated with autosomal‐dominant Axenfeld–Rieger syndrome and non‐syndromic eye abnormalities, but never been found to cause isolated oral anomalies.

Conclusions

This study for the first time demonstrates that the PITX2 mutation could lead to non‐syndromic orodental anomalies in humans. We propose that the specific location in the C‐terminal domain of PITX2 is exclusively necessary for tooth development.
Association of dental and maxillary sinus pathologies with ear, nose, and throat symptoms
Authors: Horwitz Berkun R , Polak D , Shapira L , Eliashar R
Published: November 2017

Objectives

To investigate the correlation between cone‐beam computerized tomography (CBCT) findings in the maxillary sinus, ear–nose–throat (ENT) symptoms and dental pathologies in asymptomatic patients.

Materials and Methods

A total 81 patients were referred for CBCT and filled a standard ENT visual analog scale (VAS) questionnaire. CBCT images were analyzed for sinus ostium obstruction, Schneiderian membrane thickening, sinus floor turbidity, and the presence of polyps. Dental pathologies were evaluated with the aid of CBCT images, periapical X‐rays, and clinical examination. A possible correlation between the CBCT findings and the ENT/dental parameters was examined by applying Student's t test and the chi‐squared test.

Results

Despite being asymptomatic, most of the 81 patients reported ENT symptoms in the questionnaire, thereby indicating that these symptoms were mainly subclinical. A significant correlation was found between the presence of polyps in the sinus and a decrease in smell/taste. Obstruction of the sinus meatus was associated with coughing; turbidity was associated with ear congestion. Thickening of the Schneiderian membrane showed an association with both coughing and ear congestion. The mean number of missing posterior teeth correlated with postnasal drip and nasal congestion. Periapical pathology was associated with nasal discharge/runny nose.

Conclusion

The results emphasize the need to evaluate ENT symptoms when radiographic findings are identified in CBCT.
Objective measurement of spectacle wear with a temperature sensor data logger
Authors: Lentsch Matthew J. , Marsack Jason D. , Anderson Heather A.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This study seeks to establish the utility of the SmartButton Data Logger (www.acrsystems.com) to monitor spectacle wear for research and clinical applications.

Methods

Fifty adults wore a thermosensor on their spectacles for 2 weeks for each of two mount types while keeping wear‐time logs. Temperatures during reported spectacle wear (ON) were compared to temperatures during non‐wear (OFF) with repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). In addition, two strategies to approximate spectacle wear from temperature data were evaluated: (1) Filtering data based on temperature ranges to identify spectacle wear (either group mean ON temperature, or an individual's mean ON temperature), and (2) Separate examiners inspecting temperature against time plots to identify spectacle wear. The success of these methods to approximate wear time was evaluated by per cent error with respect to subject reported wear time.

Results

Group mean ON (31.8 [0.6]°Celsius [°C]) and OFF (24.7 [1.5]°C) temperatures differed significantly (F1,47 = 471.2, p < 0.001), but there was no difference in temperature between mounts (F1,47 = 1.9, p = 0.18). Median per cent error and first and third quartiles (Q1, Q3) of each technique used to approximate wear time were: group mean filtering = 8% (Q1 3%, Q3 18%), individual mean filtering = 7% (Q1 4%, Q3 19%), Examiner 1 = 6% (Q1 2%, Q3 14%), Examiner 2 = 7% (Q1 3%, Q3 12%).

Conclusions

The SmartButton can monitor spectacle compliance in patients with all approximation methods evaluated providing less than 10% median per cent error in wear time.
Genomic analysis of maize lines introduced in the early stages of a breeding programme
Authors: Cantelmo Narjara Fonseca , Von Pinho Renzo Garcia , Balestre Marcio
Published: November 2017

The diversity analysis and screening of major genes using genomewide association studies (GWAS) for quantitative traits have been exploited in several grass crops, but in maize it has been neglected. This study was conducted to evaluate the genetic diversity of a collection of lines and the potential of genomic analysis as an initial screening tool. For this purpose, a collection of 470 maize inbred lines were genotyped with 23,153 Dart‐seq markers. The genomewide analysis of ear weight was used aiming to perform an initial screening in our germplasm. The diversity analysis allowed the lines to be separated into distinct groups, and most of the lines were in agreement with previous pedigree information. The GWAS revealed ten regions potentially associated with the ear weight trait, one of which was related to drought stress. The results of a multiple marker analysis confirmed four of these regions, presenting a predictive accuracy of 0.6. Based on the molecular data and the results of GWAS, it is possible to infer the potential use of this genetic background for breeding.
Identification of potential gene‐associated major traits using GBS‐GWAS for Korean apple germplasm collections
Authors: Lee So Jin , Ban Seung Hyun , Kim Gi Hoon , Kwon Soon Il , Kim Jeong Hee , Choi Cheol
Published: November 2017

Genomewide association study (GWAS), which queries the association between loci and a particular trait by examining single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the entire genome, is used in many fields of study. The development of next‐generation sequencing techniques has facilitated GWASs by decreasing the sequencing costs and time. In particular, genotyping by sequencing (GBS) is useful for sequencing many samples simultaneously and at a moderate price. Herein, we describe a potential GWAS using GBS, focused on the apple germplasm, with the goal of developing an effective apple breeding strategy through the identification of useful markers. From 308 Korean apple germplasm, SNPs were selected after GBS, and major traits were investigated. Proprietary individuals were confirmed and grouped by association through genetic diversity and population structure analyses of the selected SNPs. Genes highly associated with the target traits were identified, respectively. As the first GWAS report on the apple germplasm, these results will be useful as base data for GWASs on other apple populations and traits.
Ultrasound findings in idiopathic facial aseptic granuloma: Case series and literature review
Authors: Knöpfel Nicole , Gómez‐Zubiaur Alba , Noguera‐Morel Lucero , Torrelo Antonio , Hernandez‐Martin Angela
Published: November 2017

Idiopathic facial aseptic granuloma is an inflammatory nodule commonly located on the cheeks and eyelids in young children. Despite its prolonged course, it tends toward spontaneous resolution, so invasive diagnostic procedures should be avoided. Cutaneous ultrasound is a noninvasive modality that has been found to improve the diagnostic accuracy of nodular skin lesions. We report five children with idiopathic facial aseptic granuloma in whom high‐resolution ultrasound examination provided distinctive findings.
RASA1 mutation in a family with capillary malformation–arteriovenous malformation syndrome: A discussion of the differential diagnosis
Authors: Edwards Lisa R. , Blechman Adam B. , Zlotoff Barrett J.
Published: November 2017

We describe a family who presented with several scattered, vascular, cutaneous lesions and was found to have a novel mutation in RASA1, diagnostic of capillary malformation–arteriovenous malformation syndrome. Our patient was initially given a presumptive clinical diagnosis of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia. Capillary malformation–arteriovenous malformation syndrome shares several features with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia and hereditary benign telangiectasia, but it can be distinguished clinically according to its morphologic appearance and distribution of cutaneous vascular lesions, the presence of internal fast‐flow lesions, and genetic analysis.
Evaluating the feasibility of the steady‐state visual evoked potential (SSVEP) to study temporal attention
Authors: Mora‐Cortes Anderson , Ridderinkhof K. Richard , Cohen Michael X
Published: November 2017

Improvements in perceptual performance can be obtained when events in the environment are temporally predictable—and temporal predictability improves attention and sensory processing. The amplitude of the steady‐state visual evoked potential (SSVEP) has been shown to correlate with attention paid to a flickering stimulus even if the flickering stimulus is irrelevant for the task. However, to our knowledge, the validity of the SSVEP to study temporal attention has not been established. Therefore, we designed an SSVEP temporal attention task to evaluate whether the SSVEP and its temporal dynamics can be used to study temporal attention. We used a forced‐choice perceptual detection task while presenting task‐irrelevant visual flicker at alpha (10 Hz) and two surrounding frequencies (6 or 15 Hz). Temporal predictability was manipulated by having the interstimulus intervals (ISI) be constant or variable. Behavioral results replicated previous studies confirming the benefits of temporal expectations on performance for trials with constant ISI. EEG analyses revealed robust SSVEP amplitudes for all flicker frequencies, although a main effect of temporal expectations on SSVEP amplitude was not significant. Additional analyses revealed temporal predictability‐related modulations of SSVEP amplitude at 10 Hz and its second harmonic (20 Hz). The effect of temporal predictability was also observed for the 6 Hz flicker, but not for 15 Hz for any ISI condition. These results provide some evidence for the feasibility of the SSVEP technique to study temporal attention for stimuli with flicker frequencies around the alpha band.
Are we restoring enough? Simulating impacts of restoration efforts on the suitability of forest landscapes for a locally critically endangered umbrella species
Authors: Hof Anouschka R. , Hjältén Joakim
Published: November 2017

Habitat restoration is often implemented to mitigate the negative effects of intensive forestry on biodiversity. It may be increasingly adopted in future to alleviate additional negative effects of climate change. Ascertaining the restoration effort needed to fulfill project goals is difficult. Insights may be gained through simulating the effects of restoration efforts on landscape dynamics through time. Here we used a spatially explicit landscape simulation model to simulate the effects of different restoration efforts on forest landscapes in Sweden to assess the level of mitigation that is needed to allow viable populations of the locally critically endangered White‐backed Woodpecker (Dendrocopos leucotos); an umbrella species whose protection may serve the protection of a range of other species. Based on the goals of the protection plan for the species, which reflect its habitat requirements, we evaluated which of several restoration scenarios could fulfill goals with respect to (1) the amount of deciduous forest; (2) the amount of dead wood; and (3) the age of the forest. We found that whereas it may be relatively easy and quick to acquire high levels of dead wood, increasing the proportions of deciduous forest and of old forests require considerably more time and effort. Also, current management actions would not be sufficient to create the required amount of habitat to conserve the White‐backed Woodpecker in our study region. Simulations like ours can provide valuable information about the levels of restoration needed through time to fulfill project goals and may prevent wasting valuable resources, time, effort, and money.
Comparing seed removal rates in actively and passively restored tropical moist forests
Authors: Ssekuubwa Enock , Loe Leif E. , Sheil Douglas , Tweheyo Mnason , Moe Stein R.
Published: November 2017

High rates of seed removal can impede forest recovery, but tropical seed removal studies are few and mainly from the neotropics. Little is known about the comparative influences of active restoration (i.e. planting) and passive restoration (i.e. protection of natural regrowth) on seed removal. We conducted an evaluation of seed removal in grasslands, natural forests (tropical moist semideciduous forest), and actively (21‐, 17‐, 16‐, 11‐, 8‐, and 6‐year‐old) and passively (21‐year‐old) restored forests in Kibale National Park, Uganda. We wanted to compare the effect of vegetation type, time since restoration and restoration actions (i.e. active vs. passive) on removal of seeds of five animal‐dispersed tree species during wet and dry seasons. Seeds were either fully exposed or placed in closed mesh cages or under a mesh roof. We used differential removal rates between these treatments to attribute seed removal to different animal taxa. Seed removal rate (percentage of seed removed over a 4‐day period) was highest in passively restored forests, compared with actively restored forests, grasslands, and natural forests. We detected no significant relationship between time since restoration and seed removal rates within actively restored sites. Seed removal rate from roofed treatments was not significantly different from removal from open treatments but was significantly higher than removal from closed treatments, which we interpret as reflecting the greater effect of small mammals versus insects. Smaller seeds tended to be removed at a greater rate than larger seeds. We discuss the implications of these findings for forest regeneration.
Oral healthcare in Fraser syndrome
Authors: Hassona Y. , Kharoub H. , Scully C.
Published: November 2017

Fraser syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by renal agenesis, cryptophthalmos, syndactyly, and laryngeal stenosis. Oral manifestations are sparsely described in the literature, and patients with this syndrome might require special dental management considerations because of the associated cardiac, renal, and cognitive defects. In this report, we describe the oral/dental findings in a 22‐year‐old girl with Fraser syndrome, and discuss the dental management.
Sinusitis caused by Exserohilum rostratum after cord blood transplantation for myelodysplastic syndrome: A case report and literature review
Authors: Kohashi Sumiko , Toyama Takaaki , Hashimoto Norisato , Sakurai Masatoshi , Kato Jun , Kikuchi Taku , Koda Yuya , Sugita Kayoko , Hasegawa Naoki , Yarita Kyoko , Kamei Katsuhiko , Okamoto Shinichiro , Mori Takehiko
Published: November 2017

Invasive fungal disease is a serious infectious complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Exserohilum rostratum is a species causing phaeohyphomycosis, which rarely causes invasive disease in humans. We treated a case of sinusitis caused by E. rostratum after cord blood transplantation (CBT). A 60‐year‐old man with myelodysplastic syndrome, who had a medical history of an operation to correct deviation of the nasal septum, developed sinusitis caused by E. rostratum under prolonged profound neutropenia after a second CBT because of the graft rejection of the first transplantation. Liposomal amphotericin B improved the sinusitis. A literature review revealed nine reported cases of sinusitis caused by E. rostratum, including our case. Although five cases had severe neutropenia at onset (HSCT recipients, n = 2; aplastic anemia, n = 3), the remaining four had no preexisting immunosuppressive conditions. However, three of the four patients had preexisting nasal diseases with or without a history of surgery, as in our case. Excluding our case, the outcome was fatal in five neutropenic patients, whereas the four patients without neutropenia recovered. Although sinusitis caused by E. rostratum is rare, E. rostratum should be recognized as a possible pathogen causing sinusitis in highly immunosuppressed patients such as HSCT recipients. Preexisting nasal disease and/or nasal surgery could be risks for this infection.
Association between baseline serum hepcidin levels and infection in kidney transplant recipients: Potential role for iron overload
Authors: Fernández‐Ruiz Mario , Parra Patricia , Ruiz‐Merlo Tamara , López‐Medrano Francisco , San Juan Rafael , Polanco Natalia , González Esther , Andrés Amado , Aguado José María
Published: November 2017

Background

The liver‐synthesized peptide hepcidin is a key regulator of iron metabolism and correlates with total iron stores. We analyzed the association between pre‐transplant hepcidin‐25 levels and infection after kidney transplantation (KT).

Methods

Serum hepcidin‐25 levels were measured at baseline by high‐sensitivity ELISA in 91 patients undergoing KT at our institution between December 2011 and March 2013. The impact of this biomarker on the incidence of post‐transplant infection (excluding lower urinary tract infection) during the first year was assessed by Cox regression.

Results

Mean hepcidin‐25 level was 82.3 ± 67.4 ng/mL and strongly correlated with serum ferritin (Spearman's rho = 0.703; P < .001). There were no significant differences in hepcidin‐25 levels between patients with or without overall infection (96.4 ± 67.5 vs 72.6 ± 66.7 ng/mL; P = .101). Such difference was evident for opportunistic (128.9 ± 75.0 vs 73.0 ± 62.3 ng/mL; P = .003) and, to a lesser extent, surgical‐site infection (107.5 ± 73.3 vs 76.5 ± 65.2 ng/mL; P = .087). Patients with hepcidin‐25 levels ≥72.5 ng/mL had higher 12‐month cumulative incidence of overall infection (51.2% vs 29.2%; P = .032). After multivariate adjustment, hepcidin‐25 ≥72.5 ng/mL acted as an independent risk factor for overall (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 3.86; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.49‐9.96; P = .005) and opportunistic infection (aHR 4.32; 95% CI 1.18‐15.75; P = .027).

Conclusion

Elevated baseline serum hepcidin‐25 levels were associated with increased risk of infection after KT, suggesting a role for iron overload in the individual susceptibility to post‐transplant infection.
Can Escherichia coli fly? The role of flies as transmitters of E. coli to food in an urban slum in Bangladesh
Authors: Lindeberg Yrja Lisa , Egedal Karen , Hossain Zenat Zebin , Phelps Matthew , Tulsiani Suhella , Farhana Israt , Begum Anowara , Jensen Peter Kjær Mackie
Published: November 2017

Objective

To investigate the transmission of faecal bacteria by flies to food under natural settings.

Methods

Over a period of 2 months, paired (exposed and non‐exposed) containers with cooked rice were placed on the ground in kitchen areas in an urban slum area in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and the numbers of flies landing on the exposed rice were counted. Following exposure, the surface of the rice was microbiologically and molecularly analysed for the presence of Escherichia coli and genes of diarrhoeagenic E. coli and Shigella strains.

Results

Rice was at greater risk (P < 0·001) of being contaminated with E. coli if flies landed on the rice than if no flies landed on the rice (odds ratio 5·4 (P < 0·001, 95% CI: 2·5–11·7). Mean contamination in exposed rice samples (n = 60) was 3·1 × 103 CFU/g (95% CI: 2·2 × 103–4·0 × 103). Furthermore, for approximately half of the observed fly landings, the average CFU per fly landing was >0·6 × 103 CFU. Genes of diarrhoeagenic E. coli and Shigella species were detected in 39 of 60 (65%) of exposed rice samples. Two fly species were identified: the common housefly (Musca domestica) and the oriental latrine fly (Chrysomya megacephala).

Conclusion

Flies may transmit large quantities of E. coli to food under field settings. The findings highlight the importance of implementing control measures to minimise exposure of food to flies to ensure food safety. Fly control measures should be considered for the prevention of diarrhoeal diseases caused by E. coli.
Deciphering lipid codes: K‐Ras as a paradigm
Authors: Zhou Yong , Hancock John F.
Published: November 2017

The cell plasma membrane (PM) is a highly dynamic and heterogeneous lipid environment, driven by complex hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions among the hundreds of types of lipid species. Although the biophysical processes governing lipid lateral segregation in the cell PM have been established in vitro, biological implications of lipid heterogeneity are poorly understood. Of particular interest is how membrane proteins potentially utilize transient spatial clustering of PM lipids to regulate function. This review focuses on a lipid‐anchored small GTPase K‐Ras as an example to explore how its C‐terminal membrane‐anchoring domain, consisting of a contiguous hexa‐lysine polybasic domain and an adjacent farnesyl anchor, possesses a complex coding mechanism for highly selective lipid sorting on the PM. How this lipid specificity modulates K‐Ras signal transmission will also be discussed.
Occurrence of hemolytic reactions on the same day as immune globulin product administrations during 2008 to 2014
Authors: Sridhar Gayathri , Ekezue Bola F. , Izurieta Hector S. , Forshee Richard A. , Selvam Nandini , Mintz Paul D. , Anderson Steven A. , Menis Mikhail D.
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND

Hemolytic reactions (HRs) are rare serious adverse events after immune globulin (IG) use. Our large claims‐based study evaluated occurrence of same‐day hemolysis after administration of different IG products and potential risk factors, during the 2008 to 2014 study period.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using a large commercial administrative database. The study included individuals exposed to IG products as identified by procedure codes. HRs were ascertained using ICD‐9‐CM diagnosis codes. Unadjusted same‐day hemolysis rates (per 1000 persons) were estimated overall, by age, sex, and IG products. Multivariable regression analyses were used to evaluate potential risk factors.

RESULTS

Of 20,440 persons exposed, 211 (10.3 per 1000) had same‐day HRs. The median numbers of doses for IG users with versus without same‐day hemolysis were one and six, respectively. The unadjusted product‐specific HR rates ranged from 1.92 for subcutaneous product Hizentra to 17.99 for intravenous Octagam. The multivariable regression analyses showed significantly increased same‐day HR risk in males and in IG users with histories of hemolysis, pneumonia, and hereditary hemolytic anemias. Compared to Gammagard Liquid, significantly elevated overall hemolysis risk was identified with Octagam (odds ratio, 2.36; 95% confidence interval, 1.04‐5.35), using Firth's method to account for small sample size bias.

CONCLUSION

The study showed variation in the same‐day IG‐related hemolysis by age, sex, and IG products administered. The results suggest importance of underlying health conditions, especially prior hemolysis, and first IG product dose. Differences in HR occurrence may also be explained by product manufacturing processes, indications, routes, and rates of administration, which warrant further investigation.
Targeted exome sequencing defines novel and rare variants in complex blood group serology cases for a red blood cell reference laboratory setting
Authors: Schoeman Elizna M. , Roulis Eileen V. , Liew Yew‐Wah , Martin Jacqueline R. , Powley Tanya , Wilson Brett , Millard Glenda M. , McGowan Eunike C. , Lopez Genghis H. , O'Brien Helen , Condon Jennifer A. , Flower Robert L. , Hyland Catherine A.
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND

We previously demonstrated that targeted exome sequencing accurately defined blood group genotypes for reference panel samples characterized by serology and single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping. Here we investigate the application of this approach to resolve problematic serology and SNP‐typing cases.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The TruSight One sequencing panel and MiSeq platform was used for sequencing. CLC Genomics Workbench software was used for data analysis of the blood group genes implicated in the serology and SNP‐typing problem. Sequence variants were compared to public databases listing blood group alleles. The effect of predicted amino acid changes on protein function for novel alleles was assessed using SIFT and PolyPhen‐2.

RESULTS

Among 29 unresolved samples, sequencing defined SNPs in blood group genes consistent with serologic observation: 22 samples exhibited SNPs associated with varied but known blood group alleles and one sample exhibited a chimeric RH genotype. Three samples showed novel variants in the CROM, LAN, and RH systems, respectively, predicting respective amino acid changes with possible deleterious impact. Two samples harbored rare variants in the RH and FY systems, respectively, not previously associated with a blood group allele or phenotype. A final sample comprised a rare variant within the KLF1 transcription factor gene that may modulate DNA‐binding activity.

CONCLUSION

Targeted exome sequencing resolved complex serology problems and defined both novel blood group alleles (CD55:c.203G>A, ABCB6:c.1118_1124delCGGATCG, ABCB6:c.1656‐1G>A, and RHD:c.452G>A) and rare variants on blood group alleles associated with altered phenotypes. This study illustrates the utility of exome sequencing, in conjunction with serology, as an alternative approach to resolve complex cases.
Hobson‐Jobson: The East India Company lexicon
Authors: TELTSCHER KATE
Published: November 2017

Henry Yule and A.C. Burnell'sHobson‐Jobson: A Glossary of Colloquial Anglo‐Indian Words and Phrases(1886) offers a richly nuanced history of the East India Company. This article argues that the lexicon shows the influence of comparative philology, particularly the work of Friedrich Max Müller. Compiled at the same time as the India Office archives were first catalogued,Hobson‐Jobsonengages with the primary sources of Company history. The article examines both the impact of Asian words and goods on Britain, and the cultural and trading connections between colonies. Through a series of close readings, the article demonstrates thatHobson‐Jobsonoffers fresh ways to approach the global networks of Company trade, and personal networks of affiliation.
High conservation of the transcriptional response to acetolactate‐synthase‐inhibiting herbicides across plant species
Authors: Délye C , Duhoux A , Gardin J A C , Gouzy J , Carrère S
Published: November 2017

We investigated whether specific ALS‐inhibitor response marker‐genes (AIRMs) identified in the model dicotyledonous plant Arabidopsis thaliana (Brassicaceae) were conserved across phylogenetically very distant species. The most probable homologs of the 533 A. thalianaAIRMs were identified in the major monocotyledonous weeds Alopecurus myosuroides and Lolium sp. (Poaceae) using recently established transcriptome resources. Expression patterns of above 70% of the grass AIRMs homologs matched those of their A. thaliana counterparts. Pathways of response to acetolactate‐synthase (ALS)‐inhibiting herbicides seem therefore strongly conserved, even across very distant plant species. This opens new perspectives for unravelling the genetic determinants of non‐target‐site resistance (NTSR) to ALS inhibitors, especially those governing NTSR regulation that remains fully unknown to date. Model plants could be used in a first step to discover the genes involved in ALS‐inhibitor response pathways. Subsequent studies comparing sequence and expression of weed homologs of these genes should expedite the identification of candidates for the role of genes governing NTSR sensing and regulatory pathways.
Reviewer Acknowledgements
Authors: Gibbs Nikki
Published: November 2017

Applied Economics and Finance (AEF) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether AEF publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 4, Number 5Asad K. Ghalib, Liverpool Hope University, UKAyoub Taha Sidahmed, SIU, SudanDilshodjon Rakhmonov, Tashkent State University of Economics, UzbekistanEncarnación Alvarez-Verdejo, University of Granada, SpainErdal Gumus, Eskisehir Osmangazi University, TurkeyEyup Kadioglu, Capital Markets Board, TurkeyGeorge Theocharides, Cyprus International Institute of Management, CyprusGetamesay Bekele Meshesha, Debre Berhan University, EthiopiaIbrahim Baghdadi, Lebanese University, LebanonIgor Matyushenko, School of Foreign Economic Relations and Touristic Business, UkraineLuca Giordano, IOSCO (International Organization of Securities Commissions), ItalyMagdalena Radulescu, University of Pitesti, RomaniaMasonic Lodge, TurkeyNicolas Afflatet, University of the Federal Armed Forces, GermanyNuno Crespo, ISCTEIUL, PortugalPatrycja Kowalczyk-Rolczynska, Wroclaw University of Economics, PolandPayal Chadha, University of Wales Prifysgol Cymru, KuwaitRomeo Victor Ionescu, Dunarea de Jos University, RomaniaRuhet GENC, Turkish-German University, TurkeySherry Jensen, Florida Institute of Technology, USASorin Gabriel Anton, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iaşi, RomaniaSteven V. Cates, Kaplan University, USASzabolcs Blazsek, Universidad Francisco Marroquín, GuatemalaTaro Abe, Nagoya Gakuin University, JapanVictoria Cociug, Academy of Sciences of Moldova, MoldovaWing-Keung Wong, Asia University, TaiwanZi-Yi Guo, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., USA Nikki GibbsEditorial AssistantOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of Applied Economics and FinanceRedfame Publishing9450 SW Gemini Dr. #99416Beaverton, OR 97008, USAURL: http://aef.redfame.com
Study of a Bioinspired Wall-Climbing Robot: Contact Mechanism and Performance
Authors: Wu Xuan , Liu Gaowei , Wang Xiaojie , Liu Yanwei , Mei Tao
Published: November 2017

This paper presents a study of bioinspired wall-climbing robot (WCR) using spiny toes. The first part of the paper describes a design of a flexible spiny toe inspired by the features of a typical wall-climbing insect Serica orientalis Motschulsky’s tarsal system. A simple contact model of the spiny toe is proposed by considering the contact asperities as spheres. With the help of the finite element method (FEM), the stiffness matrices as well as the directional adhesive properties of the spiny toe are obtained. A single spiny toe and its array are fabricated via fast prototyping. The adhesive forces and pull-off positions of the single toe are measured with a homebuilt apparatus using displacement-control method under different compressive deformations. As for the spiny array, the effect of the dragging path on the adhesive forces is evaluated. The results show that, both the single toe and array exhibit directional adhesive features. The value of compressive deformation of the single toe influences the contacting angle, as a consequence the directional adhesive behavior is achieved. When forming an array with numerous spiny toes, the adhesive ability is strengthened, which is also affected by the random distribution of the surface asperity height.

In the second part of the paper, a prototype of bioinspired WCR is designed and fabricated based on a fully understanding of the spiny contact mechanism. The robot has two feet, each of which has spring-actuated gripper. An inchworm gait is generated according to the trajectory planning of the feet. Using the proposed spiny arrays, the robot archives scaling on vertical and inverted rough surfaces, and can also transition between vertical and ceiling walls. The performance of the prototype of bioinspired WCR shows promising in developing an intelligent and maneuverable WCR system in practical applications.
Wet-Adhesion Properties of Microstructured Surface of PDMS Inspired by Newt Foot Pads
Authors: Gong Ling , Yu Haiwu , Wu Xuan , Wang Xiaojie
Published: November 2017

Newts display superior attachment and climbing abilities under wet conditions due to the distinct pattern of micro- and nanoscale structures (i.e., polygonal epidermal cells with raised boundaries, and dense nanopillar arrays) on their foot pad surfaces. Inspired by the surface features of newt foot pads, a microstructured surface consisting of structural elements of round pillars surrounded by a closed hexagonal ridge is produced on the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomer, and its wet adhesion properties are studied experimentally. A homebuilt adhesion tester is developed to carry out the pull-off experiments, in which the adhesion force of samples can be measured directly. The PDMS sample is fixed on the substrate, and a flat glass cylinder of 10 mm diameter is adopted as indenter. Different amounts of liquid are added to the area of contact by using a micropipette. Influences of preload, retraction speed, area ratio of round pillars, amount of liquid and approach-retraction cycle on wet adhesion of the patterned surface of PDMS samples are investigated.

Results show that the pull-off forces of all samples increase with preload and retraction speed. However, the pull-off forces increase slowly when the preload is over 3 N for both dry and wet conditions. The area ratios of round pillars increase the pull-off forces for the dry condition. When a small amount of liquid (0.1 μl) is added, the effect of the area ratios of round pillars on the pull-off force is not consistent with that of dry condition. Effects of amount of liquid on pull-off force for different area ratios of round pillars are various. For a certain amount of liquid, it is observed that the pull-off forces in general show a relatively high value for the first approach-retraction cycle, then decrease to a lower level starting from the second cycle, and suddenly increase and maintain a relatively constant value after several times of approach-retraction cycles. Our results can give insights into the repeated sliding actions of newt foot pads when climbing in wet environments as well as the possible functions of dense nanopillar arrays on newt footpad surface.
A Piezocomposite Rotor With Contactless Power and Data Transmission
Authors: Bilgen Onur
Published: November 2017

This paper presents a summary of the ongoing research and development of a solid-state piezo-composite rotor design for use in rotary systems. The proposed hub-rotor system can be implemented in unmanned-aerial-vehicles such as single-rotor, tandem-rotor, multi-copter, and ducted-fan rotorcraft, or other rotating systems such as wind turbines, turbine engines and marine propellers. The preliminary feasibility of the solid-state rotor concept has been previously demonstrated through flight-testing a prototype on a quad-copter vehicle platform. This paper presents a summary of previous findings, and a new solid-state rotor prototype with the corresponding experimental results.
An Origami-Based Tunable Helmholtz Resonator for Noise Control: Introduction of the Concept and Preliminary Results
Authors: Benouhiba Amine , Rabenorosoa Kanty , Ouisse Morvan , Andreff Nicolas
Published: November 2017

A Helmholtz resonator is a passive acoustic device that enables noise reduction at a given frequency. This frequency is directly related to the volume of the resonator and to the size of the neck that couples the resonator to the acoustic domain. In other words, controlling the volume of the cavity allows a real time tunability of the device, which means noise control at any desired frequency. To that end, we propose an Origami-based tunable Helmholtz resonator. The design is inspired from the well-known origami base, waterbomb. Such foldable structures offer a wide range of volume shifting which corresponds to a frequency shifting in the application of interest. The foldability of the structure is first investigated. Then, a series of numerical simulations and experimental tests were preformed are presented, in order to explore the capabilities of this origami structures in acoustic control. A shift in the frequency domain of up to 197 Hz (131–328 Hz) was achieved in an experimental testing using 3D printed rigid devices.
Cross-Well Actuation of Bistable Structures Subjected to Noise Disturbance
Authors: Zarepoor Masoud , Bilgen Onur
Published: November 2017

Large loads due to fluid-structure interaction can lead to high bending stresses and fatigue failure in wings and wind turbine blades. A solution for the mentioned problem is using a bistable composite laminate for load alleviation. A bistable composite laminate is capable of attaining two statically stable shapes, and it can be designed to alleviate a critical load, such as wind gust, by snapping from one stable position to the other. Piezocomposite actuators can be used to reverse the snap-through and bring back the structure to its original optimal aerodynamic shape, after the gust load is alleviated. However, there will always be a limit on the size of the piezocomposite actuator used; hence, severe force and energy constraints exist to achieve the snap-through. In this context, this paper focuses on the minimum required actuation energy for performing snap-through of a bistable structure. The paper shows how the required energy for cross-well transfer varies as a function of damping ratio and frequency ratio at specific harmonic force amplitude when the system is externally disturbed with a band-limited noise signal. A band-limited noise signal is chosen to model external/ambient disturbances. This paper uses the Duffing-Holmes equation as a one-degree-of-freedom representative model of a bistable structure. This equation is numerically solved to calculate the required energy for cross-well oscillation under different system and forcing conditions. Various non-dimensional parameters are used to highlight interesting phenomena. It is found that the domain of low energy regions decreases by increasing the level of noise.
Morphing High-Temperature Surfaces for Shapeable Hypersonic Waverider Vehicles
Authors: Phoenix Austin A. , Maxwell Jesse R. , Goodwin Gabriel B.
Published: November 2017

In the development of high-performance hypersonic vehicles, the use of high lift and low drag concepts demonstrates improvements in thermal loading, vehicle accelerations and load factors, and total energy dissipation. The key design limitation of hypersonic waveriders is that the optimal waverider geometry is highly dependent on Mach number and deviations from the design point may significantly degrade performance. This paper addresses this fundamental limitation of waveriders by evaluating the ability to morph the bottom surface of a waverider to provide the optimal point-design performance across a broad operational range. This paper addresses the first step required to delivering this morphing capability by addressing the number of morphing control points required to accurately match the complex surfaces of the waverider for multiple Mach number designs. Additionally, the tradeoff between number of additional control points and surface error is investigated. To achieve this, a sensitivity analysis using a Q-DEIM algorithm is performed to identify and rank the optimal set of control. This control point set is verified through analysis and used to evaluate the performance of a morphing waverider structure. Future efforts will evaluate Mach number dependent pressure distribution, aerodynamic structural loading, and thermal loading. This work simply identifies the scale of the control problem and identifies a methodology to actuate a complex surface to enable viable waverider vehicles that maintain optimum performance across a range of Mach numbers.
Semi-Active Helicopter Ground Resonance Suppression Using Magnetorheological Technology
Authors: Cheng Ming , Chen Zhaobo
Published: November 2017

This paper discusses the semi-active control of helicopter ground resonance using magnetorheological (MR) damper. A dynamic model of a MR damper with bi-fold flow mode is built based on the hyperbolic tangent model and experimental data on mechanical properties; and its inverse model is derived for the control. An approximate analytical solution of a linear system is provided and a critical stability area is calculated according to the classical model of ground resonance and the method of determining the linear system stability. Then, Simulations are performed on the helicopter ground resonance model with three semi-active control strategies and the control performance is compared. Simulation results show that the comprehensive performance of the fuzzy skyhook control algorithm is superior to the on-off skyhook and continuous skyhook control algorithms.
Physical Modeling of Macroscopic Phase Transition Behavior for Nickel Titanium Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) Wires
Authors: Gaasbeek Rolf , de Jager Bram
Published: November 2017

The macroscopic behavior of Nickel Titanium Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) wires suffers from hysteresis. This is related to the fraction of material that is in detwinned martensite crystallographic orientation. In this work, a novel physical model is proposed that describes the fraction of transformed material on a macroscopic level. The model is history-free, and hence, is ideal to implement in model-based control strategies.
Characterization of Honeycomb Polymer Composites for Use in Adaptable Aerospace Structures
Authors: Squibb Carson O. , Philen Michael K.
Published: November 2017

Smart materials are unique in their ability to change properties in response to an environmental stimulus. These materials provide promising opportunities for adaptable aerospace structures, where they can be altered to suit their need. In this research, Honeycomb Polymer Composites (HPCs) were investigated as potential materials for this need. HPCs are new materials that consist of a polymer embedded in a honeycomb structure, and exhibit a significantly higher stiffness than the polymer or honeycomb alone. This stiffness amplification is due to the nearly incompressible polymer resisting the volume change within the honeycomb cells. HPC samples were fabricated using an aramid honeycomb, with either silicone or urethane rubber as the matrix materials to fill the honeycomb. Varying polymer stiffness, honeycomb geometry, and testing temperature were all tested to observe the effects on the material properties. The results indicated that the HPCs could be effectively tailored and modeled to suit the need for different effective moduli. This research provides important insight and results in the development of programmable honeycomb polymer composites (PHPCs), which rely on shape memory polymers (SMP) as the internal working polymer.
Two Stage Design of Compliant Mechanisms With Superelastic Compliant Joints
Authors: Jovanova Jovana , Frecker Mary
Published: November 2017

The design of compliant mechanisms made of Nickel Titanium (NiTi) Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) is considered to exploit the superelastic behavior of the material to achieve tailored high flexibility on demand. This paper focuses on two-stage design optimization of compliant mechanisms, as a systematic method for design of the composition of the functionally graded NiTi material within the compliant mechanism devices. The location, as well as geometric and mechanical properties, of zones of high and low flexibility will be selected to maximize mechanical performance. The proposed two-stage optimization procedure combines the optimization of an analytical model of a single-piece functionally graded unit, with a detailed FEA of a continuous compliant mechanism.

In the first stage, a rigid-link model is developed to initially approximate the behavior of the compliant mechanism. In the second stage the solution of the rigid-link problem serves as the starting point for a continuous analytical model where the mechanism consists of zones with different material properties and geometry, followed by a detailed FEA of a compliant mechanism with integrated zones of superelasticity.

The two-stage optimization is a systematic approach for compliant mechanism design with functional grading of the material to exploit superelastic response in controlled manner. Direct energy deposition, as an additive manufacturing technology, is foreseen to fabricate assemblies with multiple single piece functional graded components. This method could be applied to bio-inspired structures, flapping wings, flexible adaptive structures and origami inspired compliant mechanisms.
Optimization of Spatially Distributed Contact-Aided Compliant Mechanisms in a Dynamic Structure
Authors: Calogero Joseph , Frecker Mary , Hasnain Zohaib , Hubbard James E.
Published: November 2017

The optimal stiffnesses and spatial locations of contact-aided compliant mechanisms in a dynamic flapping wing structure are found using a numerical dynamics model and multi-objective genetic algorithm. Using mathematical descriptions of how wing shape change impact pitch agility in a flapping wing mechanical bird, an optimization problem was formulated to find compliant joint stiffness and location parameters which induce desired shape change. Specifically, the goal of the shape change was to induce forward sweep at the upstroke to downstroke transition while otherwise remaining stiff in an effort to move the aerodynamic center ahead of the center of gravity. A single compliant joint in the leading edge spar of an ornithopter wing was considered. A multi-objective genetic algorithm was used to solve the optimization problem, generating 3892 unique designs over 20 generations. Machine learning visualization and regression was used to better understand the data set. The data set was narrowed using higher level decisions, and one optimal design which satisfied the design requirements was chosen based on its relative performance and design parameters. The design was able to achieve the desired forward sweep while only allowing small bending and twist motion compared to the wing structure without a compliant joint inserted.