bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathogenic Variability within Indian Alternaria brassicae Isolates Using Seed, Cotyledon and Leaf of Brassica Species
Authors: Meena Prabhu Dayal , Gupta Riteka , Meena Hari Singh , Sharma Pankaj , Jambhulkar Sanjay
Published: March 2017

Thirty Alternaria brassicae (Berk.) Sacc. isolates from diverse geographical locations of India were studied for pathogenic variability on seed, cotyledon and true leaves of Brassica species. Seed germination was reduced maximum by isolate BAB‐39 in Brassica juncea cultivar Varuna (22.1%), Brassica rapa var. Toria cultivar PT‐303 (12%), Brassica carinata cultivar Kiran (12%), Brassica napus cultivar GSL‐1 (11%) and tolerant source of B. juncea genotype PHR‐2 (7%), although least by isolate BAB‐49. Maximum lesion size on leaf was recorded in B. juncea cultivar Rohini (11.2, 16.5 and 16.8 mm) with isolates BAB‐09 (Pantnagar), BAB‐19 (Bharatpur) and BAB‐39 (Kangra), respectively, and categorized as highly virulent, while minimum lesion size of 3.2, 3.7 and 3.8 mm was observed with isolates BAB‐47 (Tonk), BAB 49 (Jobner) and BAB 04 (Kamroop), respectively, considered the weak isolates. On B. alba, BAB‐09, BAB‐19 and BAB‐39 isolates caused maximum lesion size of 3.7, 3.8 and 3.9 mm, respectively, even though it showed maximum tolerance. In both seed and cotyledon inoculation method, the per cent Alternaria blight severity above 80% was observed with isolate of BAB‐39 (91.5%), BAB‐19 (89.0%), BAB‐09 (85.5%) and least in isolate BAB‐49 (34.0%). Brassica seed, cotyledon and leaf showed the similar positive response for categorizing A. brassicae isolates as virulent and avirulent. This information could be used to the development and assessment of resistant brassica germplasm, especially with A. brassicae populations exhibiting increased virulence.
Clinical findings and results of diagnostic imaging in 82 dogs with gastrointestinal ulceration
Authors: Fitzgerald E. , Barfield D. , Lee K. C. L. , Lamb C. R.
Published: March 2017

Objectives

To describe clinical and imaging findings in dogs with confirmed gastrointestinal ulceration, to compare findings in dogs with perforated and non‐perforated ulcers and to estimate the sensitivities of radiography, ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT) for gastrointestinal ulceration and perforation.

Methods

Retrospective review of medical records of 82 dogs that had a macroscopic ulcer in the gastric or intestinal mucosa diagnosed directly at endoscopy, surgery or necropsy and had survey radiography, ultrasonography or aCTscan of the abdomen during the same period of hospitalisation.

Results

The most frequent clinical signs were vomiting in 88% dogs, haematemesis in 32%, melaena in 31% and weight loss in 7%. The most frequent imaging findings in dogs with non‐perforated ulcers were gastrointestinal mural lesion in 56%, mucosal defect compatible with an ulcer in 44% and peritoneal fluid in 21%. In dogs with perforated ulcers the most frequent imaging findings were peritoneal fluid in 83%, gastrointestinal mural lesion in 48%, peritoneal gas in 31% and mucosal defect compatible with an ulcer in 29%. Sensitivities of radiography, ultrasonography andCTwere 30, 65 and 67% in dogs with non‐perforated ulcers and 79, 86 and 93% in dogs with perforated ulcers, respectively.

Clinical Significance

In dogs with non‐perforated ulcers, survey radiography was usually negative whereas ultrasonography andCTfrequently enabled detection of the site of the ulcer; in dogs with perforated ulcers, radiography was frequently positive for peritoneal gas andCTwas a sensitive modality for both the ulcer and signs of perforation.
Malignant anal sac melanoma in dogs: eleven cases (2000 to 2015)
Authors: Vinayak A. , Frank C. B. , Gardiner D. W. , Thieman‐Mankin K. M. , Worley D. R.
Published: March 2017

Objectives

To report the signalment, clinical presentation, treatments pursued and outcomes of dogs with malignant anal sac melanoma.

Methods

Medical records from five institutions from January 2000 through December 2015 were reviewed and dogs with cytologically‐ or histologically‐confirmed malignant anal sac melanoma were identified. Signalment, clinical signs, staging, cytology, histopathologic analysis, surgical and non‐surgical treatments were extracted from the medical records. The referring veterinarians and owners were contacted for follow‐up data.

Results

Eleven dogs were included and survival data was available for all. The most common clinical signs were bloody anal sac discharge and perianal licking. Initial treatments pursued included surgery (n=8), chemotherapy (n=1), and palliative treatment with pain medications and stool softeners (n=2). In an adjuvant setting, melanoma vaccine was pursued following surgery in three dogs and chemotherapy in one dog. Regardless of treatment, progression‐free survival (mean 92 · 5 days) and overall survival times (median 107 days) were short.

Clinical Significance

Dogs in this case series had a guarded to poor prognosis regardless of treatment. Ten of 11 dogs were euthanased due to local or distant disease progression. Only 1 of 11 dogs was alive one year after diagnosis. An understanding of tumour behaviour in this location could lead to improved survival times with earlier diagnosis and treatment.
Combined tibial plateau levelling osteotomy and lateral fabellotibial suture for cranial cruciate ligament rupture with severe rotational instability in dogs
Authors: Schaible M. , Shani J. , Caceres A. , Payton M. , Segev Y. , Ben‐Amotz R.
Published: March 2017

Objective

To report the use of tibial plateau levelling osteotomy and lateral fabellotibial suture in combination for treatment of severe internal tibial rotational stifle instability in cranial cruciate‐deficient stifles.

Methods

Twenty‐three stifles in 19 dogs were diagnosed with cranial cruciate ligament rupture with severe stifle instability, characterised by marked cranial tibial translation and internal tibial rotation that was evident during orthopaedic examination. A combined tibial plateau levelling osteotomy and lateral fabellotibial suture procedure were performed to stabilise the stifle joint. The surgical complications, short‐term lameness scores and owner satisfaction were evaluated.

Results

The postoperative complication rate was 21
·
7% with one minor (4
·
3%) and four major (17
·
4%) complications. At short‐term follow‐up one dog had an intermittent low‐grade lameness and two dogs had mild tibial internal rotational instability present on palpation without lameness. Owner's overall satisfaction with the operation and recovery was good (21
·
4%) to excellent (78
·
6%).

Clinical Significance

The use of lateral fabellotibial suture in combination with tibial plateau levelling osteotomy was an effective technique for managing cranial cruciate ligament rupture with severe internal tibial rotational stifle instability.
Power in Supply Chain Management
Authors: Reimann Felix , Ketchen David J.
Published: March 2017

Power is a central yet underexplored element in supply chain relationships. In this introduction to the Special Topic Forum (STF), we provide a brief overview of key concepts underlying the current literature on power in supply chains. We then highlight open questions that we see at the forefront of the literature and explain how the five STF papers inform these developing research streams. We close by offering directions for future research on power in supply chains.
Petrographic and geochemical evidence for multiphase formation of carbonates in the Martian orthopyroxenite Allan Hills 84001
Authors: Moyano‐Cambero Carles E. , Trigo‐Rodríguez Josep M. , Benito M. Isabel , Alonso‐Azcárate Jacinto , Lee Martin R. , Mestres Narcís , Martínez‐Jiménez Marina , Martín‐Torres Francisco J. , Fraxedas Jordi
Published: March 2017

Martian meteorites can provide valuable information about past environmental conditions on Mars. Allan Hills 84001 formed more than 4 Gyr ago, and owing to its age and long exposure to the Martian environment, and this meteorite has features that may record early processes. These features include a highly fractured texture, gases trapped during one or more impact events or during formation of the rock, and spherical Fe‐Mg‐Ca carbonates. In this study, we have concentrated on providing new insights into the context of these carbonates using a range of techniques to explore whether they record multiple precipitation and shock events. The petrographic features and compositional properties of these carbonates indicate that at least two pulses of Mg‐ and Fe‐rich solutions saturated the rock. Those two generations of carbonates can be distinguished by a very sharp change in compositions, from being rich in Mg and poor in Fe and Mn, to being poor in Mg and rich in Fe and Mn. Between these two generations of carbonate is evidence for fracturing and local corrosion.
Pathology of toxic leucoencephalopathy in drug abuse supports hypoxic‐ischemic pathophysiology/etiology
Authors: Alturkustani Murad , Ang Lee‐Cyn , Ramsay David
Published: March 2017

The histopathological features of leucoencephalopathy caused by illicit drugs (such as opioids and cocaine) are well documented in acute cases but not in long‐survival cases. There are several hypotheses about the pathogenesis of this disorder, including hypoperfusion, direct drug toxicity resulting from the neurotoxic effects of the drug itself or contaminants in the illicit drug vehicle. We reviewed the post mortem findings in five males (aged 24 to 56 years, with survival intervals ranging from 7 days to 5 months) with a history of illicit drug use and concomitant fatal white matter changes. The histological characteristics of leucoencephalopathy vary with survival period. Prominent axonal injury and axonal spheroids were observed with shorter survival and spongiform changes becoming apparent with longer survival (acute and chronic incomplete infarct pattern). Necrosis was present in all cases and its appearance changed with longer survival (acute and chronic complete infarct pattern). Significant primary demyelination was not observed. These observations suggest that the primary defect in this leucoencephalopathy is hypoxic‐ischemic injury, predominantly in the white matter. Spongiform leucoencephalopathy likely represents the longer‐survival incomplete infarct pattern and is observed with polydrug abuse.
Real‐time detection of N‐end rule‐mediated ubiquitination via fluorescently labeled substrate probes
Authors: Mot Augustin C. , Prell Erik , Klecker Maria , Naumann Christin , Faden Frederik , Westermann Bernhard , Dissmeyer Nico
Published: March 2017

The N‐end rule pathway has emerged as a major system for regulating protein functions by controlling their turnover in medical, animal and plant sciences as well as agriculture. Although novel functions and enzymes of the pathway have been discovered, the ubiquitination mechanism and substrate specificity of N‐end rule pathway E3 ubiquitin ligases have remained elusive. Taking the first discovered bona fide plant N‐end rule E3 ligase PROTEOLYSIS1 (PRT1) as a model, we used a novel tool to molecularly characterize polyubiquitination live, in real time.

We gained mechanistic insights into PRT1 substrate preference and activation by monitoring live ubiquitination using a fluorescent chemical probe coupled to artificial substrate reporters. Ubiquitination was measured by rapid in‐gel fluorescence scanning as well as in real time by fluorescence polarization.

The enzymatic activity, substrate specificity, mechanisms and reaction optimization of PRT1‐mediated ubiquitination were investigated ad hoc instantaneously and with significantly reduced reagent consumption.

We demonstrated that PRT1 is indeed an E3 ligase, which has been hypothesized for over two decades. These results demonstrate that PRT1 has the potential to be involved in polyubiquitination of various substrates and therefore pave the way to understanding recently discovered phenotypes of prt1 mutants.
Long‐term hypovitaminosis D and secondary hyperparathyroidism outcomes of the Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass: a systematic review
Authors: Switzer N. J. , Marcil G. , Prasad S. , Debru E. , Church N. , Mitchell P. , Billington E. O. , Gill R. S.
Published: March 2017

Introduction

Pre‐operative Vitamin D deficiency is markedly prevalent in prospective bariatric surgery patients. While bariatric surgery leads to significant weight loss, it can exacerbate or prolong Vitamin D deficiency. We systematically reviewed the literature to assess whether secondary hyperparathyroidism is maintained in the medium to long term in patients following the Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted through Medline, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Dare, Cochrane library and HTA database. The search terms used were bariatric surgery, gastric bypass and hyperparathyroidism.

Results

Fourteen studies were included (n = 2688 subjects). Parathyroid hormone levels rose gradually from a mean pre‐operative level of 5.69 ± 1.2 pmol/L to 6.36 ± 0.77 pmol/L, 7.59 ± 0.73 pmol/L and 8.29 ± 1.41 pmol/L at 2 years, between 2 and 5 years, and beyond 5 years, respectively. Vitamin D levels slowly fell to a mean of 20.50 ± 4.37 ng/mL and 20.76 ± 3.80 ng/mL between follow‐up intervals 2–5 years and beyond 5, respectively.

Conclusion

It appears that hyperparathyroidism persists at 5‐year follow‐up after gastric bypass, despite most patients being supplemented with calcium and Vitamin D.
Intravenous Zoledronic Acid 5 mg on Bone Turnover Markers and Bone Mineral Density in East China Subjects with Newly Diagnosed Osteoporosis: A 24‐month Clinical Study
Authors: Liang Bo‐cheng , Shi Zhen‐yu , Wang Bo , Wu Peng , Kong Ling‐cheng , Yao Jian‐liang , Li Chun‐wen , Shi Xiao‐lin
Published: March 2017

Objective

This randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study assessed the necessity of early intervention, safety and efficacy of intravenous zoledronic acid 5 mg/year in East China women with newly diagnosed osteoporosis at high risk of fracture during a 24‐month treatment period.

Methods

Subjects (57 [52–62] years old) were randomized 3:2 to zoledronic acid versus placebo (randomized at baseline, zoledronic acid [175 cases], placebo‐zoledronic acid [110 cases]). The bone mineral density of the lumbar spine and total hip was measured every 6 months with the use of dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. Serum procollagen I N‐terminal pro‐peptide (PINP) and serum C‐telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX) levels were measured every 6 months. The primary end point was the rate of change in the bone mineral density at the posteroanterior spine.

Results

For subjects with measurements at 24 months, zoledronic acid significantly increased bone mineral density (BMD) at the lumbar spine (mean percent change ± SD, zoledronic acid 5.390% ± 0.854% versus placebo‐zoledronic acid −1.038% ± 0.599%), the total hip (zoledronic acid 1.900% ± 0.262% versus placebo–zoledronic acid −1.631% ± 0.649%). Serum procollagen I N‐terminal pro‐peptide (PINP) and CTX decreased rapidly with zoledronic acid 5 mg treatment (P < 0.001 versus placebo at 6 month and 24 months) and changed from baseline in the zoledronic acid 5 mg and placebo–zoledronic acid 5 mg at 6 months by a mean of −66.348% and −75.375%, respectively (P < 0.001), and at 24 months by −49.950% and −52.325%, respectively (P < 0.001). No cases of serious adverse events were observed in two groups. Headache, pyrexia and myalgia occurred more commonly within the first 3 days after infusion with zoledronic acid 5 mg than with placebo (13.7% versus 2.1%, P = 0.0018; 28.0% versus 3.2%, P < 0.001; 21.7% versus 4.2%, P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

These data show that early application of zoledronic acid 5 mg/year was well stimulated and tolerated for bone mass in newly diagnosed east china subjects with osteoporosis in a 24‐month treatment.
5q14.3 Microdeletions: A Contiguous Gene Syndrome with Capillary Malformation–Arteriovenous Malformation Syndrome and Neurologic Findings
Authors: Park Sung‐Min , Kim Jeong‐Min , Kim Gun‐Wook , Kim Hoon‐Soo , Kim Byung‐Soo , Kim Moon‐Bum , Ko Hyun‐Chang
Published: March 2017

Deletions within chromosome region 5q14.3q15 have been associated with a spectrum of disorders including developmental delay, hypotonia, absent speech, mild facial dysmorphism, seizures, and brain anomalies. Some cases of concomitant neurologic abnormalities and cutaneous vascular malformation associated with 5q14.3 deletion have been reported. Previously reported cases had similar features, including multiple capillary malformations, and neurologic abnormalities, including epilepsy, hypotonia, and developmental delay. We report a case of 5q14.3 neurocutaneous syndrome presenting with multiple capillary malformations, neurologic abnormalities, and microdeletion in chromosome 5q14.3.
Humor in romantic relationships: A meta‐analysis
Authors: HALL JEFFREY A.
Published: March 2017

This manuscript reports a meta‐analysis of the correlation between humor and relationship satisfaction in romantic relationships, combining 43 distinct samples from 39 manuscripts and including 15,177 participants (54.7% female) with a mean age of 34.0 years. Drawing from 3 theoretical dimensions of humor (i.e., within‐person/relational, positive/negative, instrumental/content free), weighted mean effect sizes were estimated for 12 distinct subdimensions of humor. All 6 positive types of humor were positively associated with relationship satisfaction, and 4 of 5 negative types of humor were negatively associated with relationship satisfaction. Instrumental humor was unassociated with satisfaction. In support of the proposed relational dimension, self‐reported humor showed small associations with satisfaction, while partner‐perceived and relational humor showed medium and large effect sizes, respectively.
Implicit Candidate‐Trait Associations in Political Campaigns
Authors: Ksiazkiewicz Aleksander , Vitriol Joseph , Farhart Christina
Published: March 2017

While the study of political attitudes has incorporated implicit processes in its theoretical models, the predominant approach to candidate‐trait perception focuses exclusively on explicit processes. Our novel, dual‐process approach to candidate perception sees voters as holding both conscious, explicit impressions of candidate traits and automatic, implicit candidate‐trait associations that cannot be measured using traditional self‐report techniques. We examine implicit candidate‐trait associations for the first time using data from a three‐wave online panel conducted in the last month of the 2012 U.S. presidential election. First, we demonstrate that implicit candidate‐trait associations exist. Second, we show that implicit associations of warmth and competence with the candidates predict explicit candidate evaluations, economic evaluations, and vote choice, above and beyond conventional political science controls and explicit trait perceptions. Finally, we find that these effects are strongest among nonpartisans and partisans with conflicted feelings about their party's nominee. We suggest future directions for implicit political cognition research, including trait perception.
Support for Anti‐Muslim Policies: The Role of Political Traits and Threat Perception
Authors: Dunwoody Philip T. , McFarland Sam G.
Published: March 2017

We explored how political beliefs and attitudes predict support for anti‐Muslim policies and extremist behavior in the United States following the 2015 Paris terrorist attacks. A large sample completed measures of authoritarianism, social dominance orientation (SDO), generalized prejudice, identification with all humanity (IWAH), perceptions of Muslim threat, and support for anti‐Muslim policies and behaviors. These measures accounted for 73% of the variance in moderate anti‐Muslim policies and 55% of the variance in extreme anti‐Muslim policies. Authoritarianism and SDO directly and indirectly predicted support for anti‐Muslim policies, with their effects partially mediated by generalized prejudice, IWAH, and perceptions of Muslims as threatening. Threat both mediated and moderated the relationship between authoritarianism and anti‐Muslim policies. A negative interaction between authoritarianism and perceptions of Muslims as threatening predicted moderate anti‐Muslim policies, but a positive interaction predicted extreme anti‐Muslim policies. A tentative explanation is offered. Perceptions of Muslim threat was consistently a powerful predictor of anti‐Muslim policies and willingness to engage in extremist behaviors targeting Muslims. Programs to combat anti‐Muslim prejudice should consider the role of threat‐related stereotypes in expressions of anti‐Muslim prejudice.
COPD exacerbation and diaphragmatic dysfunction: Conditions with mutual influence influencing outcomes? – Reply
Authors: Marchioni Alessandro , Tonelli Roberto , Antenora Federico , Fantini Riccardo , Clini Enrico M.
Published: March 2017

See Letter
Experiences and needs of spouses of persons with young‐onset frontotemporal lobe dementia during the progression of the disease
Authors: Johannessen Aud , Helvik Anne‐Sofie , Engedal Knut , Thorsen Kirsten
Published: March 2017

Background

Two of the most common types of young‐onset dementia (<65 years old) are Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal lobe dementia (FTLD). A limited amount of research that focuses on the needs of spouses of persons with young‐onset FTLD (yo‐FTLD) has been published. Thus, we have carried out a study aiming to examine the spouses of yo‐FTLD experiences and needs for assistance in daily life.

Method

Qualitative interviews with 16 informants (aged 51–69 years; nine wives, six husbands and one male cohabitant) were conducted in 2014 and 2015. The data were analysed by reformulated and modified method of Grounded Theory.

Findings

From the interviews, three main themes with subthemes emerged: The first main theme that appeared is sneaking signs at the early stage of dementia. It covers two subthemes: incomprehensible early signs and lack of self‐insight. The second main theme that appeared is other relations, and it covers three subthemes: the torment, interference with work and vanishing social relations. The third main theme: needs for assistance through all stages of dementia, are described under three subthemes: Relief of the diagnosis, support at home and the path to the nursing home.

Conclusion

The interviews showed that spouses and the whole family of yo‐FTLD need interdisciplinary, individualised and specialised support throughout the progression of the disorder. Furthermore, there is a need for more knowledge about yo‐FTLD among health personnel, including general practitioners. IT‐solutions can contribute to developing such services and support to the entire family.
Factors associated with the health and cognition of 6‐year‐old to 8‐year‐old children in KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa
Authors: Ajayi Oluwakemi R. , Matthews Glenda , Taylor Myra , Kvalsvig Jane , Davidson Leslie L. , Kauchali Shuaib , Mellins Claude A.
Published: March 2017

Objective

To investigate 6‐year‐old to 8‐year‐old children's health, nutritional status and cognitive development in a predominantly rural area of KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa.

Methods

Cohort study of 1383 children investigating the association of demographic variables (area of residence, sex, pre‐school education, HIV status, height for age and haemoglobin level) and family variables (socioeconomic status, maternal and paternal level of education), with children's cognitive performance. The latter was measured using the Grover‐Counter Scale of Cognitive Development and subtests of the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children, second edition (KABC‐II). General linear models were used to determine the effect of these predictors.

Results

Area of residence and height‐for‐age were the statistically significant factors affecting cognitive test scores, regardless of attending pre‐school. Paternal level of education was also significantly associated with the cognitive test scores of the children for all three cognitive test results, whereas HIV status, sex and their socioeconomic status were not.

Conclusion

Children with low cognitive scores tended to be stunted (low height‐for‐age scores), lacked pre‐school education and were younger. Area of residence and their parents’ educational level also influenced their cognition.
Picard curves over with good reduction away from 3
Authors: Malmskog Beth , Rasmussen Christopher
Published: March 2017

Inspired by methods of N. P. Smart, we describe an algorithm to determine all Picard curves over $\mathbb{Q}$ with good reduction away from 3, up to $\mathbb{Q}$-isomorphism. A correspondence between the isomorphism classes of such curves and certain quintic binary forms possessing a rational linear factor is established. An exhaustive list of integral models is determined and an application to a question of Ihara is discussed.
Mechanical Properties and Adhesive Scuffing Wear Behavior of Stir Cast Cu–Sn–Ni/Si3N4 Composites
Authors: Nithesh R. , Radhika N. , Shiam Sunder S.
Published: March 2017

The modern technology developments have seeded for the necessity of composite materials that are incorporated with high hardness, high tensile strength, and better wear properties. Cu–Sn–Ni alloy as well as the composites of varying weight percentage of Si3N4 (5, 10, and 15) are fabricated by liquid metallurgy technique. The alloy and composites are tested for their tensile strength and hardness on Universal Testing Machine and Vickers microhardness tester, respectively. Based on the tests, Cu–Sn–Ni/10 wt. % of Si3N4 is found to have optimum mechanical properties. The scuff type adhesive wear behavior is studied through pin-on-disk tribometer under dry sliding conditions for Cu–Sn–Ni/10 wt. % of Si3N4 composite. Taguchi's design of experiments technique based on L27 orthogonal array model is used for analyses of process parameters in three levels such as applied load (10, 20, and 30 N), sliding distance (500, 1000, and 1500 m), and sliding velocity (1, 2, and 3 m/s). The parameters are ranked based on the signal-to-noise ratio and the analysis of variance approach. Based on wear results, applied load is found to have highest stature on influencing wear rate followed by sliding distance and sliding velocity. A generalized wear rate equation is obtained based on the linear regression model and its feasibility is checked. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analyses revealed severe delamination occurred on maximum load condition. The development of this copper composite can have the possibility of replacing aluminum bearings.
An Optimum Design Approach for Textured Thrust Bearing With Elliptical-Shape Dimples Using Computational Fluid Dynamics and Design of Experiments Including Cavitation
Authors: Fu Gen , Untaroiu Alexandrina
Published: March 2017

Textured thrust bearings are capable of providing higher load capacity and lower friction torque compared to nontextured bearings. However, most previous optimization efforts for texturing geometry were focused on rectangular dimples and employed Reynolds equation. Limited studies have been done to investigate the effects of partially textured thrust bearings with elliptical dimples. This study proposes a new optimization approach to find the optimal partially texture geometry with elliptical dimples, which maximize the loading capacity and minimize the friction torque. In this study, a 3D computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model for a parallel sector-pad thrust bearing is built using ANSYS cfx. Mass conserving cavitation model is used to simulate the cavitation regions. Energy equation for Newtonian flow is also solved. The results of the model are validated by the experimental data from the literature. Based on this model, the flow pattern and pressure distribution inside the dimples are analyzed. The geometry of elliptical dimple is parameterized and analyzed using design of experiments (DOE). The selected geometry parameters include the length of major and minor axes, dimple depth, radial and circumferential space between two dimples, and the radial and circumferential extend. A multi-objective optimization scheme is used to find the optimal texture structure with the load force and friction torque set as objective functions. The results show that the shape of dimples has a crucial effect on the performance of the textured thrust bearings. Searching the design space for a proper combination among the design variables satisfying the constraints has the advantage of capturing the codependence among design variables and leads to a surface patterning of the bearing, which showed a 42.7% improvement on the load capacity.
Fluid Velocity Slip and Temperature Jump at a Solid Surface
Authors: Shu Jian-Jun , Bin Melvin Teo Ji , Kong Chan Weng
Published: March 2017

A comprehensive review of current analytical models, experimental techniques, and influencing factors is carried out to highlight the current challenges in this area. The study of fluid–solid boundary conditions has been ongoing for more than a century, starting from gas–solid interfaces and progressing to that of the more complex liquid–solid case. Breakthroughs have been made on the theoretical and experimental fronts but the mechanism behind the phenomena remains a puzzle. This paper provides a review of the theoretical models, and numerical and experimental investigations that have been carried out till date. Probable mechanisms and factors that affect the interfacial discontinuity are also documented.
Process Parameter Optimization of a Mobile Robotic Percussive Riveting System With Flexible Joints
Authors: Li Yuwen , Ji Jiancheng , Guo Shuai , Xi Fengfeng (Jeff)
Published: March 2017

This paper proposes a method for process parameter optimization of a mobile robotic percussive riveting system with flexible joints to guarantee the rivet gun alignment during the operation. This development is motivated by the increasing interest in using industrial robots to replace human operators for percussive impact riveting in aerospace assembly. In percussive riveting, the rivet gun generates repetitive impacts acting on the rivet. These impacts not only deform the rivet but also induce forced vibration to the robot, and thus the robot must hold the gun firmly during riveting. The process parameters for the mobile robotic riveting system include those related to the impact force generation for planning the rivet gun input and those related to the robot pose with respect to the joined panels for planning the mobile platform motion. These parameters are incorporated into a structural dynamic model of the robot under a periodic impact force. Then an approximate analytical solution is formulated to calculate the displacement of the rivet gun mounted on the end effector for its misalignment evaluation. It is found that both the force frequency and the mobile platform position have strong influence on the robotic riveting performance in terms of alignment during operation. Global optimization of these process parameters is carried out to demonstrate the practical application of the proposed method for the planning of the robotic percussive riveting system.
Receiver design for spread-spectrum communications with a small spread in underwater clustered multipath channels
Authors: Kuai Xiaoyan , Zhou Shengli , Wang Zhaohui , Cheng En
Published: March 2017

This paper studies a direct-sequence spread-spectrum communication system with a small spreading factor (e.g., a single digit) in underwater acoustic multipath channels. Exploiting the channel characteristics that the propagation paths can be grouped into distinct clusters, a receiver with a set of parallel branches is proposed, where per-survivor processing (PSP) is applied on each branch to deal with the signal from one cluster while explicitly treating the signals from other clusters as structured interference. As such, it overcomes a major limitation of an existing PSP based receiver [Zhou, Morozov, and Preisig, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 133, 2746–2754 (2013)], avoiding exponential complexity increase when the spreading factor decreases. On the first branch, joint channel estimation and interference cancellation are performed based solely on the survivor paths. On the other branches, joint channel estimation and interference cancellation are carried out based on the survivor paths and the tentatively decoded data. The bit log-likelihood ratios from different branches are combined for channel decoding. Performance results based on simulations and collected data sets validate the superior performance of the proposed receiver over the conventional RAKE receiver, which is effective only when the spreading factor is large.
A transfer learning framework for predicting the emotional content of generalized sound events
Authors: Ntalampiras Stavros
Published: March 2017

Predicting the emotions evoked by generalized sound events is a relatively recent research domain which still needs attention. In this work a framework aiming to reveal potential similarities existing during the perception of emotions evoked by sound events and songs is presented. To this end the following are proposed: (a) the usage of temporal modulation features, (b) a transfer learning module based on an echo state network, and (c) a k-medoids clustering algorithm predicting valence and arousal measurements associated with generalized sound events. The effectiveness of the proposed solution is demonstrated after a thoroughly designed experimental phase employing both sound and music data. The results demonstrate the importance of transfer learning in the specific field and encourage further research on approaches which manage the problem in a synergistic way.
Wearable/disposable sweat-based glucose monitoring device with multistage transdermal drug delivery module
Authors: Lee Hyunjae , Song Changyeong , Hong Yong Seok , Kim Minsung , Cho Hye Rim , Kang Taegyu , Shin Kwangsoo , Choi Seung Hong , Hyeon Taeghwan , Kim Dae-Hyeong
Published: March 2017

A sweat-based glucose monitoring device with transdermal drug delivery is developed for noninvasive diabetes treatment.
Molecular beam brightening by shock-wave suppression
Authors: Segev Yair , Bibelnik Natan , Akerman Nitzan , Shagam Yuval , Luski Alon , Karpov Michael , Narevicius Julia , Narevicius Edvardas
Published: March 2017

We defeat the fundamental limit on molecular beam flux by cooling interacting surfaces, eliminating disruptive shock waves.
A Rh(II)-catalyzed multicomponent reaction by trapping an α-amino enol intermediate in a traditional two-component reaction pathway
Authors: Liu Shunying , Yao Wenfeng , Liu Yuan , Wei Qinghua , Chen Jianghui , Wu Xiang , Xia Fei , Hu Wenhao
Published: March 2017

Rh(II)-catalyzed multicomponent reaction achieved to give α-amino-β-indole ketones by trapping α-amino enols with vinylimine ions.
Same-Day Diagnostic and Surveillance Data for Tuberculosis via Whole-Genome Sequencing of Direct Respiratory Samples
Authors: Votintseva Antonina A. , Bradley Phelim , Pankhurst Louise , del Ojo Elias Carlos , Loose Matthew , Nilgiriwala Kayzad , Chatterjee Anirvan , Smith E. Grace , Sanderson Nicolas , Walker Timothy M. , Morgan Marcus R. , Wyllie David H. , Walker A. Sarah , Peto Tim E. A. , Crook Derrick W. , Iqbal Zamin
Published: March 2017

Routine full characterization of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
is culture based, taking many weeks. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) can generate antibiotic susceptibility profiles to inform treatment, augmented with strain information for global surveillance; such data could be transformative if provided at or near the point of care. We demonstrate a low-cost method of DNA extraction directly from patient samples for
M. tuberculosis
WGS. We initially evaluated the method by using the Illumina MiSeq sequencer (40 smear-positive respiratory samples obtained after routine clinical testing and 27 matched liquid cultures).
M. tuberculosis
was identified in all 39 samples from which DNA was successfully extracted. Sufficient data for antibiotic susceptibility prediction were obtained from 24 (62%) samples; all results were concordant with reference laboratory phenotypes. Phylogenetic placement was concordant between direct and cultured samples. With Illumina MiSeq/MiniSeq, the workflow from patient sample to results can be completed in 44/16 h at a reagent cost of £96/£198 per sample. We then employed a nonspecific PCR-based library preparation method for sequencing on an Oxford Nanopore Technologies MinION sequencer. We applied this to cultured
Mycobacterium bovis
strain BCG DNA and to combined culture-negative sputum DNA and BCG DNA. For flow cell version R9.4, the estimated turnaround time from patient to identification of BCG, detection of pyrazinamide resistance, and phylogenetic placement was 7.5 h, with full susceptibility results 5 h later. Antibiotic susceptibility predictions were fully concordant. A critical advantage of MinION is the ability to continue sequencing until sufficient coverage is obtained, providing a potential solution to the problem of variable amounts of
M. tuberculosis
DNA in direct samples.
RNA-Associated Early-Stage Antiviral Factor Is a Major Component of Lv2 Restriction
Authors: Marno Kelly M. , O'Sullivan Eithne , Jones Christopher E. , Díaz-Delfín Julieta , Pardieu Claire , Sloan Richard D. , McKnight Áine
Published: March 2017

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) replication in human cells is restricted at early postentry steps by host inhibitory factors. We previously described and characterized an early-phase restriction of HIV-1 and -2 replication in human cell lines, primary macrophages, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The restriction was termed lentiviral restriction 2 (Lv2). The viral determinants of Lv2 susceptibility mapped to the HIV-2 envelope (Env) and capsid (CA). We subsequently reported a whole-genome small interfering RNA screening for factors involved in HIV that identified RNA-associated early-stage antiviral factor (REAF). Using HIV-2 chimeras of susceptible and nonsusceptible viruses, we show here that REAF is a major component of the previously described Lv2 restriction. Further studies of the viral CA demonstrate that the CA mutation I73V (previously called I207V), a potent determinant for HIV-2, is a weak determinant of susceptibility for HIV-1. More potent CA determinants for HIV-1 REAF restriction were identified at P38A, N74D, G89V, and G94D. These results firmly establish that in HIV-1, CA is a strong determinant of susceptibility to Lv2/REAF. Similar to HIV-2, HIV-1 Env can rescue sensitive CAs from restriction. We conclude that REAF is a major component of the previously described Lv2 restriction.

IMPORTANCE
Measures taken by the host cell to combat infection drive the evolution of pathogens to counteract or sidestep them. The study of such virus-host conflicts can point to possible weaknesses in the arsenal of viruses and may lead to the rational design of antiviral agents. Here we describe our discovery that the host restriction factor REAF fulfills the same criteria previously used to describe lentiviral restriction (Lv2). We show that, like the HIV-2 CA, the CA of HIV-1 is a strong determinant of Lv2/REAF susceptibility. We illustrate how HIV counteracts Lv2/REAF by using an envelope with alternative routes of entry into cells.
Mutating the CX3C Motif in the G Protein Should Make a Live Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccine Safer and More Effective
Authors: Boyoglu-Barnum S. , Todd S. O. , Meng J. , Barnum T. R. , Chirkova T. , Haynes L. M. , Jadhao S. J. , Tripp R. A. , Oomens A. G. , Moore M. L. , Anderson L. J.
Published: March 2017

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) belongs to the family
Paramyxoviridae
and is the single most important cause of serious lower respiratory tract infections in young children, yet no highly effective treatment or vaccine is available. Through a CX3C chemokine motif (
182
CWAIC
186
) in the G protein, RSV binds to the corresponding chemokine receptor, CX3CR1. Since RSV binding to CX3CR1 contributes to disease pathogenesis, we investigated whether a mutation in the CX3C motif by insertion of an alanine, A
186
, within the CX3C motif, mutating it to CX4C (
182
CWAIAC
187
), which is known to block binding to CX3CR1, might decrease disease. We studied the effect of the CX4C mutation in two strains of RSV (A2 and r19F) in a mouse challenge model. We included RSV r19F because it induces mucus production and airway resistance, two manifestations of RSV infection in humans, in mice. Compared to wild-type (wt) virus, mice infected with CX4C had a 0.7 to 1.2 log
10
-fold lower virus titer in the lung at 5 days postinfection (p.i.) and had markedly reduced weight loss, pulmonary inflammatory cell infiltration, mucus production, and airway resistance after challenge. This decrease in disease was not dependent on decrease in virus replication but did correspond to a decrease in pulmonary Th2 and inflammatory cytokines. Mice infected with CX4C viruses also had higher antibody titers and a Th1-biased T cell memory response at 75 days p.i. These results suggest that the CX4C mutation in the G protein could improve the safety and efficacy of a live attenuated RSV vaccine.

IMPORTANCE
RSV binds to the corresponding chemokine receptor, CX3CR1, through a CX3C chemokine motif (
182
CWAIC
186
) in the G protein. RSV binding to CX3CR1 contributes to disease pathogenesis; therefore, we investigated whether a mutation in the CX3C motif by insertion of an alanine, A
186
, within the CX3C motif, mutating it to CX4C (
182
CWAIAC
187
), known to block binding to CX3CR1, might decrease disease. The effect of this mutation and treatment with the F(ab′)
2
form of the anti-RSV G 131-2G monoclonal antibody (MAb) show that mutating the CX3C motif to CX4C blocks much of the disease and immune modulation associated with the G protein and should improve the safety and efficacy of a live attenuated RSV vaccine.
Vaccinia Virus A6 Is a Two-Domain Protein Requiring a Cognate N-Terminal Domain for Full Viral Membrane Assembly Activity
Authors: Meng Xiangzhi , Rose Lloyd , Han Yue , Deng Junpeng , Xiang Yan
Published: March 2017

Poxvirus virion biogenesis is a complex, multistep process, starting with the formation of crescent-shaped viral membranes, followed by their enclosure of the viral core to form spherical immature virions. Crescent formation requires a group of proteins that are highly conserved among poxviruses, including A6 and A11 of vaccinia virus (VACV). To gain a better understanding of the molecular function of A6, we established a HeLa cell line that inducibly expressed VACV-A6, which allowed us to construct VACV mutants with an A6 deletion or mutation. As expected, the A6 deletion mutant of VACV failed to replicate in noncomplementing cell lines with defects in crescent formation and A11 localization. Surprisingly, a VACV mutant that had A6 replaced with a close ortholog from the Yaba-like disease virus YLDV-97 also failed to replicate. This mutant, however, developed crescents and had normal A11 localization despite failing to form immature virions. Limited proteolysis of the recombinant A6 protein identified an N domain and a C domain of approximately 121 and 251 residues, respectively. Various chimeras of VACV-A6 and YLDV-97 were constructed, but only one that precisely combined the N domain of VACV-A6 and the C domain of YLDV-97 supported VACV replication albeit at a reduced efficiency. Our results show that VACV-A6 has a two-domain architecture and functions in both crescent formation and its enclosure to form immature virions. While a cognate N domain is not required for crescent formation, it is required for virion formation, suggesting that interactions of the N domain with cognate viral proteins may be critical for virion assembly.

IMPORTANCE
Poxviruses are unique among enveloped viruses in that they acquire their primary envelope not through budding from cellular membranes but by forming and extending crescent membranes. The crescents are highly unusual, open-ended membranes, and their origin and biogenesis have perplexed virologists for decades. A group of five viral proteins were recently identified as being essential for crescent formation, including the A6 protein of vaccinia virus. It is thus important to understand the structure and function of A6 in order to solve the long-standing mystery of poxvirus membrane biogenesis. Here, we established an experimental system that allowed the genetic manipulation of the essential A6L gene. By studying A6 mutant viruses, we found that A6 plays an essential role not only in the formation of crescents but also in their subsequent enclosure to form immature virions. We defined the domain architecture of A6 and suggested that one of its two domains cooperates with cognate viral proteins.
Association between highly active antiretroviral therapy and selected cardiovascular disease risk factors in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Dimala Christian Akem , Blencowe Hannah
Published: March 2017

Introduction

The increasing highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) coverage in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has been associated with increasing cardiovascular disease (CVD) incidence. However, the epidemiology of the association between HAART and CVD risk factors in SSA is sparse. We aim to assess the extent to which HAART is associated with selected cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidaemia and metabolic syndrome) in SSA.

Methods and analysis

This will be a systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies on the association between HAART and CVD risk factors retrieved from Medline, Embase, Popline, Africa-Wide Information, African Index Medicus and the Cochrane library databases. Studies will be screened for eligibility according to the selection criteria by two independent reviewers. Eligible studies will be assessed for the quality of their evidence and risk of bias using the Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies of the National Health Institute and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach, with respect to the measured outcomes (hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidaemia and metabolic syndrome). A data abstraction form will be produced on Epi info V.7 and data analysis done on STATA V.14 statistical software. Summary estimates of measures of effects for the association between HAART use and the outcomes will be derived. Random effects meta-analyses will be performed and I2statistic used to assess for heterogeneity between studies with respect to measured parameters. Qualitative synthesis will be used where data is insufficient to produce quantitative synthesis.

Ethics and dissemination

The protocol has been reviewed by the Research Governance & Integrity Office of the Research Ethics Committee of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and confirmed as not requiring ethical approval. The findings of this study will be made widely available especially to national HIV/AIDS committees formulating HIV/AIDS guidelines for their respective settings.

Trial registration number

CRD42016042306; Pre-results.