bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sulfatide‐mediated control of extracellular matrix‐dependent oligodendrocyte maturation
Authors: Baron Wia , Bijlard Marjolein , Nomden Anita , de Jonge Jenny C. , Teunissen Charlotte E. , Hoekstra Dick
Published: February 2014

In the central nervous system, the extracellular matrix (ECM) compound laminin‐2, present on developing axons, is essential in regulating oligodendrocyte (OLG) maturation. For example, laminin‐2 is involved in mediating interactions between integrins and growth factors, initially localizing in separate membrane microdomains. The galactosphingolipid sulfatide is an important constituent of these microdomains and may serve as a receptor for laminin‐2. Here, we investigated whether sulfatide interferes with ECM–integrin interactions and, in this manner, modulates OLG maturation. Our data reveal that disruption of laminin‐2–sulfatide interactions impeded OLG differentiation and myelin‐like membrane formation. On laminin‐2, but not on (re)myelination‐inhibiting fibronectin, sulfatide laterally associated with integrin α6 in membrane microdomains. Sulfatide was partly excluded from membrane microdomains on fibronectin, thereby likely precluding laminin‐2‐mediated myelination. Anti‐sulfatide antibodies disrupted integrin α6‐PDGFαR interactions on laminin‐2 and induced demyelination in myelinated spheroid cultures, but intriguingly stimulated myelin‐like membrane formation on fibronectin. Taken together, these findings highlight the importance of laminin–sulfatide interactions in the formation of functional membrane microdomains essential for myelination. Thus, laminin–sulfatide interactions might control the asynchronous localized differentiation of OLGs, thereby allowing myelination to be triggered by axonal demand. Given the accumulation of fibronectin in multiple sclerosis lesions, the findings also provide a molecular rationale for the potential of anti‐sulfatide antibodies to trigger quiescent endogenous OLG progenitor cells in axon remyelination. GLIA 2014;62:927–942
Polysialic acid/neural cell adhesion molecule modulates the formation of ductular reactions in liver injury
Authors: Tsuchiya Atsunori , Lu Wei-Yu , Weinhold Birgit , Boulter Luke , Stutchfield Benjamin M. , Williams Michael J. , Guest Rachel V. , Minnis-Lyons Sarah E. , MacKinnon Alison C. , Schwarzer David , Ichida Takafumi , Nomoto Minoru , Aoyagi Yutaka , Gerardy-Schahn Rita , Forbes Stuart J.
Published: February 2014

In severe liver injury, ductular reactions (DRs) containing bipotential hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) branch from the portal tract. Neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) marks bile ducts and DRs, but not mature hepatocytes. NCAM mediates interactions between cells and surrounding matrix; however, its role in liver development and regeneration is undefined. Polysialic acid (polySia), a unique posttranslational modifier of NCAM, is produced by the enzymes, ST8SiaII and ST8SiaIV, and weakens NCAM interactions. The role of polySia with NCAM synthesizing enzymes ST8SiaII and ST8SiaIV were examined in HPCs

in vivo

using the choline-deficient ethionine-supplemented and 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine diet models of liver injury and regeneration,

in vitro

using models of proliferation, differentiation, and migration, and by use of mouse models with gene defects in the polysialyltransferases (

St8sia 2+/
−4+/
−

, and

St8sia2−
/
−4−
/
−

). We show that, during liver development, polySia is required for the correct formation of bile ducts because gene defects in both the polysialyltransferases (

St8sia2+/
−4+/
−

and

St8sia2−
/
−4−
/
−

mice) caused abnormal bile duct development. In normal liver, there is minimal polySia production and few ductular NCAM+ cells. Subsequent to injury, NCAM+ cells expand and polySia is produced by DRs/HPCs through ST8SiaIV. PolySia weakens cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, facilitating HGF-induced migration. Differentiation of HPCs to hepatocytes

in vitro

results in both transcriptional down-regulation of polySia and cleavage of polySia-NCAM. Cleavage of polySia by endosialidase (endoN) during liver regeneration reduces migration of DRs into parenchyma.

Conclusion

: PolySia modification of NCAM+ ductules weakens cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, allowing DRs/HPCs to migrate for normal development and regeneration. Modulation of polySia levels may provide a therapeutic option in liver regeneration. (Hepatology 2014;60:1727–1740)
Late HDV RNA Relapse After Peginterferon Alpha-Based Therapy of Chronic Hepatitis Delta
Authors: Heidrich Benjamin , Yurdaydın Cihan , Kabaçam Gökhan , Ratsch Boris A. , Zachou Kalliopi , Bremer Birgit , Dalekos George N. , Erhardt Andreas , Tabak Fehmi , Yalcin Kendal , Gürel Selim , Zeuzem Stefan , Cornberg Markus , Bock C.-Thomas , Manns Michael P. , Wedemeyer Heiner
Published: February 2014

Interferon alpha is the only treatment option for hepatitis delta virus (HDV). Trials investigating the efficacy of pegylated interferon alpha (PEG-IFNa) showed HDV RNA negativity rates of 25-30% 24 weeks after therapy. However, the clinical and virological long-term outcome of HDV-infected patients treated with PEG-IFNa is unknown. We performed a retrospective-prospective follow-up of 77 patients treated for 48 weeks with either PEG-alfa-2a and adefovir (ADV) or either drug alone in the Hep-Net-International-Delta-Hepatitis-Intervention-Study 1 (HIDIT-1) trial. Long-term follow-up data were available for 58 out of 77 patients (75%) with a median time of follow-up of 4.5 (0.5-5.5) years and a median 3 visits per patient. Patients treated with ADV alone received retreatment with PEG-IFNa (48% versus 19%;

P

= 0.02) more often. Hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg) became negative in six PEG-IFNa-treated patients until the end of long-term follow-up (10%). Sixteen patients tested HDV RNA-negative 6 months after PEG-IFNa treatment who were entered in the long-term follow-up study. Out of these, nine individuals tested HDV RNA-positive at least once during further long-term follow-up, with seven patients being HDV RNA-positive at the most recent visit. Clinical endpoints (liver-related death, liver transplantation, hepatic decompensation, hepatocellular carcinoma) were observed in three PEG-IFNa-treated (8%) and three ADV-treated (14%) patients during posttreatment long-term follow-up with an overall annual event rate of 2.5% (4.9% in cirrhosis). Sequencing confirmed the reappearance of pretreatment virus strains in all cases.

Conclusion :

Late HDV RNA relapses may occur after PEG-IFNa therapy of hepatitis delta and thus the term sustained virological response should be avoided in HDV infection. The annual posttreatment rate of clinical events in hepatitis delta patients eligible for PEG-IFNa therapy is about 2.5% and 4.9% in patients with cirrhosis. (Hepatology 2014;60:87-97)
Treatment of phenylketonuria using minicircle-based naked-DNA gene transfer to murine liver
Authors: Viecelli Hiu Man , Harbottle Richard P. , Wong Suet Ping , Schlegel Andrea , Chuah Marinee K. , VandenDriessche Thierry , Harding Cary O. , Thöny Beat
Published: February 2014

Host immune response to viral vectors, persistence of nonintegrating vectors, and sustained transgene expression are among the major challenges in gene therapy. To overcome these hurdles, we successfully used minicircle (MC) naked-DNA vectors devoid of any viral or bacterial sequences for the long-term treatment of murine phenylketonuria, a model for a genetic liver defect. MC-DNA vectors expressed the murine phenylalanine hydroxylase (Pah) complementary DNA (cDNA) from a liver-specific promoter coupled to a de novo designed hepatocyte-specific regulatory element, designated P3, which is a cluster of evolutionary conserved transcription factor binding sites. MC-DNA vectors were subsequently delivered to the liver by a single hydrodynamic tail vein (HTV) injection. The MC-DNA vector normalized blood phenylalanine concomitant with reversion of hypopigmentation in a dose-dependent manner for more than 1 year, whereas the corresponding parental plasmid did not result in any phenylalanine clearance. MC vectors persisted in an episomal state in the liver consistent with sustained transgene expression and hepatic PAH enzyme activity without any apparent adverse effects. Moreover, 14-20% of all hepatocytes expressed transgenic PAH, and the expression was observed exclusively in the liver and predominately around pericentral areas of the hepatic lobule, while there was no transgene expression in periportal areas. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that MC technology offers an improved safety profile and has the potential for the genetic treatment of liver diseases. (Hepatology 2014;60:1035–1043)
Self‐reported moderate‐to‐vigorous leisure time physical activity predicts less pain and disability over 12 months in chronic and persistent low back pain
Authors: Pinto R.Z. , Ferreira P.H. , Kongsted A. , Ferreira M.L. , Maher C.G. , Kent P.
Published: February 2014

Background

Physical deconditioning in combination with societal and emotional factors has been hypothesized to compromise complete recovery from low back pain (LBP). However, there is a lack of longitudinal studies designed to specifically investigate physical activity as an independent prognostic factor. We conducted a prognostic study to investigate whether levels of leisure time physical activity are independently associated with clinical outcomes in people seeking care for chronic and persistent LBP.

Methods

A total of 815 consecutive patients presenting with LBP to an outpatient spine centre in secondary care were recruited. Separate multivariate linear regression analyses were performed to investigate whether levels of leisure time physical activity (i.e., sedentary, light and moderate‐to‐vigorous leisure time physical activity levels) predict pain and disability at 12‐month follow‐up, after adjusting for age, pain, episode duration, disability, neurological symptoms, depression and fear of movement.

Results

Final models showed evidence of an association between baseline physical activity and 12‐month outcomes (p < 0.001). In both models, the moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity group reported less pain and disability compared with the sedentary group.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that physical activity levels may have a role in the prognosis of LBP. Specific domains of physical activity warrant further investigation to better understand this association.
Does a history of depression actually mediate smoking‐related pain? Findings from a cross‐sectional general population‐based study
Authors: van Hecke O. , Torrance N. , Cochrane L. , Cavanagh J. , Donnan P.T. , Padmanabhan S. , Porteous D.J. , Hocking L. , Smith B.H.
Published: February 2014

Background

Smokers report more pain and worse functioning. The evidence from pain clinics suggests that depression affects this relationship: The association between smoking and chronic pain is weakened when controlling for depression. This study explored the relationship between smoking, pain and depression in a large general population‐based cohort (Generation Scotland: Scottish Family Health Study).

Methods

Chronic pain measures (intensity, disability), self‐reported smoking status and a history of major depressive disorder (MDD) were analysed. A multivariate analysis of covariance determined whether smoking status was associated with both pain measures and a history of depressive illness. Using a statistical mediation model any mediating effect of depression on the relationship between smoking and chronic pain was sought.

Results

Of all 24,024 participants, 30% (n = 7162) reported any chronic pain. Within this chronic pain group, 16% (n = 1158) had a history of MDD; 7108 had valid smoking data: 20% (n = 1408) were current smokers, 33% (n = 2351) former and 47% (n = 3349) never smokers. Current smokers demonstrated higher pain intensity and pain‐related disability scores compared with former and non‐smokers (p < 0.001 for all analyses). From the mediation model, the effect on pain intensity decreased (p < 0.001), indicating that the relationship between smoking and a history of depression contributes significantly to the effect of smoking on pain intensity. When applied to smoking‐related pain disability, there was no mediation effect.

Conclusions

In contrast to smokers treated in pain clinics, a history of MDD mediated the relationship between smoking and pain intensity, but not pain‐related disability in smokers in the community.
Effect of Cell Density on Mesenchymal Stem Cells Aggregation in RGD‐Alginate 3D Matrices under Osteoinductive Conditions
Authors: Maia F. Raquel , Lourenço Ana H. , Granja Pedro L. , Gonçalves Raquel M. , Barrias Cristina C.
Published: February 2014

Cellular activities in 3D are differentially affected by several matrix‐intrinsic and extrinsic factors. This study highlights the relevance of optimizing initial cell densities when establishing 3D cultures for specific applications. Independently of the entrapping density, MSCs cultured within RGD‐alginate hydrogels showed steady‐state levels of metabolic activity and were in a nearly non‐proliferative state, but recovered “normal” activity levels when retrieved from 3D matrices and re‐cultured as monolayers. Importantly, high‐densities promoted the establishment of cell–cell contacts with formation of multicellular clusters stabilized by endogenous ECM, and also stimulated MSCs osteogenic differentiation. These MSC‐ECM microtissues may be used as building blocks for tissue engineering.
Optimal control of the temperature in a solar furnace
Authors: Costa Bertinho A. , Lemos João M.
Published: February 2014

This article describes the application of optimal control to a solar furnace that is used to perform temperature stress cycling tests in material samples. This process is characterized by having nonlinearities that depend on the sample properties and relate the temperature of the sample with the solar energy fluctuations and the position of the furnace shutter. An optimal control problem with fix terminal time and free terminal state and control constraints is addressed in continuous time domain. The solution is approximated using discretized state and costate equations and applied to the furnace according to a receding horizon strategy. The performance of the overall system is evaluated from computer simulations which show that the controller is able to tolerate, up to some degree, the presence of parameter uncertainty. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reactive power consumption in photovoltaic inverters: a novel configuration for voltage regulation in low‐voltage radial feeders with no need for central control
Authors: Papaioannou Ioulia T. , Purvins Arturs , Demoulias Charis S.
Published: February 2014

High photovoltaic (PV) system generation in low‐voltage feeders can cause voltage rise especially in low demand conditions. The conventional way of coping with voltage violation is disconnection of the PV systems or curtailment of the generated power. To address this issue, a novel configuration for voltage management in a radial feeder via regulated reactive power capability in PV inverters is presented. The novelty of the proposed configuration is based on the fact that all the PV inverters with the ability to consume reactive power are involved in voltage regulation without being centrally controlled. In order to apply the configuration, a reference voltage is initially estimated for each PV system, and the PV inverters are calibrated accordingly. These settings depend on the feeder topology and can be calculated by the distribution network operator with a simple power flow modelling tool. Finally, this paper presents a sensitivity analysis in order to examine how reactive power consumption in a single inverter influences PV penetration and inverter sizing at various PV topologies along the feeder. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Distributed sensor fault detection and isolation for multimachine power systems
Authors: Zhang Qi , Zhang Xiaodong , Polycarpou Marios M. , Parisini Thomas
Published: February 2014

This paper presents a distributed sensor fault detection and isolation (FDI) scheme for multimachine power systems. Each generator is interconnected with other generators through a transmission network, where the interactions between directly interconnected generators are nonlinear. In the distributed FDI scheme, a local FDI component is designed for each generator excitation system in the power system based on local measurements and certain communicated information from other FDI components associated with generators that are directly interconnected to the local generator. In each FDI component, adaptive thresholds for distributed FDI are derived, ensuring robustness with respect to nonlinear interconnection and unstructured modeling uncertainty under certain conditions. Furthermore, the fault detectability and isolability properties are investigated, characterizing the class of sensor faults that are detectable and isolable by the distributed FDI method. In addition, the stability and learning capability of the local adaptive fault isolation estimators designed for each generator is derived. A simulation example of a two‐machine power system is used to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Estimating modes of a complex dynamical network from impulse response data: Structural and graph‐theoretic characterizations
Authors: Wan Yan , Roy Sandip , Xue Mengran , Katragadda Veenadhar
Published: February 2014

We examine the role played by a linear dynamical network's topology in inference of its eigenvalues from noisy impulse‐response data. Specifically, for a canonical linear‐time‐invariant network dynamics, we relate the Cramer–Rao bounds on eigenvalue estimator performance (from impulse‐response data) to structural properties of the transfer function and in turn, to the network's topological structure. We begin by reviewing and enhancing algebraic characterizations of such eigenvalue estimates, which are based on pole‐residue and pole‐zero representations of the network's dynamics. We use these results to characterize mode estimation in networks with slow‐coherency structures, finding that stimulus and observation in each strongly connected network subgraph is needed for high‐fidelity estimation. We also obtain spectral and graphical characterizations of estimator performance for other graph classes (e.g., trees) and for the general case. These characterizations are used to determine the role of measurement and actuation locations in estimation performance. Finally, application of our results in dynamical‐network security is illustrated through a simple example, and a concrete procedure for network mode estimation that draws on our structural results is introduced to conclude the article. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
One‐Step Transfer and Integration of Multifunctionality in CVD Graphene by TiO2/Graphene Oxide Hybrid Layer
Authors: Jeong Hee Jin , Kim Ho Young , Jeong Hyun , Han Joong Tark , Jeong Seung Yol , Baeg Kang‐Jun , Jeong Mun Seok , Lee Geon‐Woong
Published: February 2014

We present a straightforward method for simultaneously enhancing the electrical conductivity, environmental stability, and photocatalytic properties of graphene films through one‐step transfer of CVD graphene and integration by introducing TiO2/graphene oxide layer. A highly durable and flexible TiO2 layer is successfully used as a supporting layer for graphene transfer instead of the commonly used PMMA. Transferred graphene/TiO2 film is directly used for measuring the carrier transport and optoelectronic properties without an extra TiO2 removal and following deposition steps for multifunctional integration into devices because the thin TiO2 layer is optically transparent and electrically semiconducting. Moreover, the TiO2 layer induces charge screening by electrostatically interacting with the residual oxygen moieties on graphene, which are charge scattering centers, resulting in a reduced current hysteresis. Adsorption of water and other chemical molecules onto the graphene surface is also prevented by the passivating TiO2 layer, resulting in the long term environmental stability of the graphene under high temperature and humidity. In addition, the graphene/TiO2 film shows effectively enhanced photocatalytic properties because of the increase in the transport efficiency of the photogenerated electrons due to the decrease in the injection barrier formed at the interface between the F‐doped tin oxide and TiO2 layers.
Graphene and Graphene‐like Layered Transition Metal Dichalcogenides in Energy Conversion and Storage
Authors: Wang Hua , Feng Hongbin , Li Jinghong
Published: February 2014

Being confronted with the energy crisis and environmental problems, the exploration of clean and renewable energy materials as well as their devices are urgently demanded. Two‐dimensional (2D) atomically‐thick materials, graphene and grpahene‐like layered transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), have showed vast potential as novel energy materials due to their unique physicochemical properties. In this Review, we outline the typical application of graphene and grpahene‐like TMDs in energy conversion and storage fields, and hope to promote the development of 2D TMDs in this field through the analysis and comparisons with the relatively natural graphene. First, a brief introduction of electronic structures and basic properties of graphene and TMDs are presented. Then, we summarize the exciting progress of these materials made in both energy conversion and storage field including solar cells, electrocatalysis, supercapacitors and lithium ions batteries. Finally, the prospects and further developments in these exciting fields of graphene and graphene‐like TMDs materials are also suggested.
Genetic Counseling Graduate Student Debt: Impact on Program, Career and Life Choices
Authors: Kuhl Ashley , Reiser Catherine , Eickhoff Jens , Petty Elizabeth M.
Published: February 2014

The cost of education is rising, increasing student financial aid and debt for students pursuing higher education. A few studies have assessed the impact of student debt in medicine, physical therapy and social work, but little is known about the impact of student debt on genetic counseling students and graduates. To address this gap in knowledge, a web‐based study of 408 recent alumni of genetic counseling programs in North America was conducted to assess the impact of student debt on program, career and life choices. Over half (63 %; n = 256/408) of the participants reported that loans were extremely important in their ability to attend their training program, with most using subsidized loans no longer available to current graduate students. While participants were generally satisfied with their genetic counseling education, 83 % (n = 282/342) of participants with student debt reported feeling burdened by their debt, which had a median of $40,000–$50,000. This debt is relatively close to the median starting salary reported by survey participants ($45,000–$50,000), breaching the “20‐10 rule” that states student debt should not exceed 20 % of annual net income. In response to this critical issue, we propose recommendations for the genetic counseling field that may help alleviate student debt impact and burden.
Effect of Flaxseed Meals and Extracts on Lipid Stability in a Stored Meat Product
Authors: Waszkowiak Katarzyna , Rudzińska Magdalena
Published: February 2014

Flaxseeds have been recently in focus due to the antioxidant capacity of some of their compounds. However, there is a lack of easily accessible information concerning their activity against lipid oxidation in food systems. Therefore, the aim of the study was to determine the effect of defatted meals (DFM) and the aqueous extracts (AFE) obtained from brown and golden flaxseeds on lipid oxidation in pork meatballs. Fatty acid composition, peroxide value (PV), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and cholesterol content were monitored during 6 months of freezer storage. Cholesterol oxidation products were identified and quantified. Both DFM and AFE limited fatty acid and cholesterol oxidation during meatball storage. Their antioxidant effect depended on flax variety (brown or golden) and preparation type (DFM or AFE). Lower level of PV and TBARS, compared with the ones with AFE, were noted in meatballs with DFM. Both DFM and AFE, from the brown seed variety, protect the lipids against oxidation to a higher extent. During the storage, a cholesterol degradation was observed. AFE (particularly from the brown variety) limited changes in cholesterol content. Moreover, they stabilized fatty acid composition of stored meatballs. However, DFM efficiently inhibited cholesterol oxidation.
Shepherds and Sheep: Parish Reconfiguration, Authority, and Activism in a Catholic Diocese
Authors: Loveland Matthew T. , Ksander Margret
Published: February 2014

This mixed method study describes contention over parish reconfiguration in a northeast Catholic diocese, and a case study of one merged parish. Guided by social movement theories about collective action frames and political opportunities in mobilization, we outline the diocesan frame of reconfiguration and the counter frame developed by activists who organized to oppose the process. While the diocesan frame focused on a shortage of priests that officials believed demanded reconfiguration of financially burdened parishes, the lay counter frame shifted the debate to questions about the role of the laity in the contemporary Catholic Church and what they perceived as failed leadership from their bishop. Our case study of Resurrection Parish shows how the merger process and the activists’ opposition to their diocesan leaders resulted in a parish that works to ensure the involvement of the laity, and continues to publicly dissent from Catholic leaders.
Cardiac Emergency Simulation: Drilling for Success in the Ambulatory Setting
Authors: Kusler‐Jensen Jane A.
Published: February 2014

The “see one, do one, teach one” method of clinical teaching is no longer practical for preparing perioperative personnel to respond to emergency situations. Teaching with simulation trains team members to respond to unexpected events and enables them to provide care when an emergency situation arises. Simulation drills resemble clinical practice and allow personnel to apply and integrate skills, teamwork, and critical thinking. This article provides information and tools for performing cardiac simulation drills in the ambulatory setting. Tools included are a 10‐step guide to simulation drills, a scenario, roles and duties to assign during a drill, and a drill evaluation form.
Thermodynamic properties of solid solutions in the Ag–Au–Cu system
Authors: Chudnenko K.V. , Pal’yanova G.A.
Published: February 2014

Data on the Cu content in native gold and silver and the Ag and Au contents in native copper are summarized. The standard thermodynamic functions of solid solutions in the Au–Cu and Ag–Cu binary systems and the Ag–Au–Cu ternary system have been estimated. The corresponding calculation module is prepared for the Selektor software.
Block displacement fields in the Altai–Sayan region and effective rheologic parameters of the Earth’s crust
Authors: Timofeev V.Yu. , Ardyukov D.G. , Timofeev A.V. , Boiko E.V. , Lunev B.V.
Published: February 2014

The paper is focused on recent displacement rates in the Altai-Sayan region, obtained by hydroleveling, leveling, and satellite geodesy. Effective elastic moduli and viscosity parameters of the crust are used in the modeling of coseismic and tectonic processes. The elastic moduli are determined from measurements of periodic vertical displacements during seasonal loadings of the Sayano-Shushenskaya hydropower plant. We present the results of the modeling of coseismic displacements during the earthquakes of 10 February 2011 (M = 6.1) and 27 December 2011 (M = 6.7) in Tuva and West Sayan. The results of GPS determinations for postseismic displacements in the Chuya earthquake zone (Gorny Altai, 27 September 2003, M = 7.5) are analyzed; models for the geologic medium are selected; and its effective viscosity is estimated. The tectonic component of the recent crustal displacements in the Altai-Sayan region is defined.
Dependence of the composition of the Zarnitsa pipe picroilmenites (Yakutia) on their formation conditions (from data of thermomagnetic studies)
Authors: Ibragimov Sh.Z. , Mishenin S.G. , Osin Yu.N.
Published: February 2014

A thermomagnetic analysis has been performed for 737 picroilmenite samples from the cores of eight boreholes in the N–S-striking drilling profile of the Zarnitsa kimberlite pipe in the Daldyn kimberlite field, Yakutia. Based on the shapes of thermomagnetic curves and the Curie points, 29 samples were chosen for detailed microprobe studies of chemical composition and elucidation of the dependence of their thermomagnetic parameters on the content of the hematite end-member in the picroilmenites. The thermomagnetic curves of most of the studied picroilmenite samples are approximated by a two-component model for the hematite end-member distribution: the main and supplementary distribution. The average hematite end-member content in the main distribution coincides with the probe microanalysis data and is always lower than the average content in the supplementary distribution. The relative hematite end-member contents in the main and supplementary distributions within the picroilmenite grains are indicators of the dynamics of mineral formation in different parts of the Zarnitsa pipe. The data obtained testify to the multistage formation of the pipe under unstable thermodynamic conditions, which explains the intricate distribution pattern of picroilmenite.
How Accurate are SuperCOSMOS Positions?
Authors: Schaefer Adam , Hunstead Richard , Johnston Helen
Published: February 2014

Optical positions from the SuperCOSMOS Sky Survey have been compared in detail with accurate radio positions that define the second realisation of the International Celestial Reference Frame (ICRF2). The comparison was limited to the IIIaJ plates from the UK/AAO and Oschin (Palomar) Schmidt telescopes. A total of 1 373 ICRF2 sources was used, with the sample restricted to stellar objects brighter than BJ = 20 and Galactic latitudes |b| > 10°. Position differences showed an rms scatter of $0.16\text{ arcsec}$ in right ascension and declination. While overall systematic offsets were < $0.1\text{ arcsec}$ in each hemisphere, both the systematics and scatter were greater in the north.
Colour Transformations between BVRc and g′r′i′ Photometric Systems for Giant Stars
Authors: Ak S. , Ak T. , Karaali S. , Bilir S. , Güçtekin S. Tunçel , Taş Ö. Önal , Öztürkmen N. D. , Duran Ş. , Coşkunoǧlu B. , Yontan T. , Gökçe E. Yaz , Eker Z.
Published: February 2014

The transformation equations from BVRc to g′r′i′ magnitudes and vice versa for the giants were established from a sample of 80 stars collected from Soubiran et al. (2010) with confirmed surface gravity (2 ⩽ logg (cm s− 2) ⩽ 3) at effective temperatures 4000 < Teff(K) < 16000. The photometric observations, all sample stars at g′r′i′ and 65 of them at BVRc, were obtained at TÜBİTAK National Observatory (TUG) 1m (T100) telescope, on the Taurus Mountains in Turkey. The MV absolute magnitudes of the giant stars were estimated from the absolute magnitude-temperature data for the giant stars by Sung et al. (2013) using the Teff from the intrinsic colours considered in this study. The transformation equations could be considered to be valid through the ranges of the following magnitudes and colours involved: 7.10 < V0 < 14.50, 7.30 < g′0 < 14.85, − 0.20 < (B − V)0 < 1.41, − 0.11 < (V − Rc)0 < 0.73, − 0.42 < (g′ − r′)0 < 1.15, and − 0.37 < (r′ − i′)0 < 0.47 mag. The transformations were successfully applied to the synthetic BVRc data of 427 field giants in order to obtain the g′r′i′ magnitudes and colours. Comparisons of these data with the g′r′i′ observations of giants in this study show that the mean residuals and standard deviations lie within [− 0.010, 0.042] and [0.028, 0.068] mag, respectively.
Sequential gene expression profiling in the mouse spleen during 14 d feeding withLactobacillus brevisKB290
Authors: Fukui Yuichiro , Sasaki Erika , Fuke Nobuo , Nakai Yuji , Ishijima Tomoko , Abe Keiko , Yajima Nobuhiro
Published: February 2014

Some lactic acid bacteria play an important role in the immune system with potential benefits to the host. However, detailed mechanisms of immune modulation exerted by probiotics remain to be clarified. Since immune response changes in a time-related manner in some cases, we monitored changes in mRNA levels in the spleen of mice during 14 d feeding withLactobacillus brevisKB290 (KB290). Female BALB/c mice, aged 9 weeks, commenced a diet containing KB290 (3 × 109colony-forming units/g) or starch for a period of 1, 4, 7 or 14 d. Cytotoxic activity of the resulting splenocytes against YAC-1 cells was measured using flow cytometry. The activity was found to be significantly higher in the treated group on days 1 and 7. The highest activity appeared on day 4, but was not statistically significantly different. Gene expression profiles were analysed using DNA microarray. Gene Ontology (GO) terms related to the immune process were significantly enriched in the up-regulated gene set on days 1, 4 and 7, and GO terms related to the cellular process were enriched in the down-regulated gene set on days 4 and 7. Although the up-regulated genes involved in antigen processing and presentation for stimulation of CD8+cytotoxic T cells were not observed on day 14, some genes involved in T-cell and natural killer cell activation remained up-regulated until day 14. For the majority of the genes tested, RT-PCR analysis was used to verify the results obtained from the DNA microarray analysis. The sequential gene expression profiling reflected changes in cytotoxic activity during KB290 feeding.
Robust optimal attitude control of a laboratory helicopter without angular velocity feedback
Authors: Liu Hao , Xi Jianxiang , Zhong Yisheng
Published: February 2014

In this paper, the robust, optimal, output control problem is dealt with for a 3-degree-of-freedom laboratory helicopter. The control goal is to achieve the practical tracking of the desired elevation and pitch angles without the angular velocity feedback. A nominal linear time-invariant system is introduced and the real system is considered as the nominal one with uncertainties, including parameter perturbations, nonlinear time-varying uncertainties, and external disturbances. An observer is first used to estimate angular velocity. Then a nominal controller based on the optimal control method is designed for the nominal system to achieve the desired tracking properties. Lastly, a robust output compensator is added to restrain the effects of uncertainties in the real system. It is shown that asymptotic tracking properties and robust stability can be achieved. Experimental results on the laboratory helicopter are shown to verify the effectiveness of the proposed control method.
Edge-weighted consensus-based formation control strategy with collision avoidance
Authors: Falconi Riccardo , Sabattini Lorenzo , Secchi Cristian , Fantuzzi Cesare , Melchiorri Claudio
Published: February 2014

In this paper, a consensus-based control strategy is presented to gather formation for a group of differential-wheeled robots. The formation shape and the avoidance of collisions between robots are obtained by exploiting the properties of weighted graphs. Since mobile robots are supposed to move in unknown environments, the presented approach to multi-robot coordination has been extended in order to include obstacle avoidance. The effectiveness of the proposed control strategy has been demonstrated by means of analytical proofs. Moreover, results of simulations and experiments on real robots are provided for validation purposes.
Research agendas for the sustainable management of tropical peatland in Malaysia
Authors: PADFIELD RORY , WALDRON SUSAN , DREW SIMON , PAPARGYROPOULOU EFFIE , KUMARAN SHASHI , PAGE SUSAN , GILVEAR DAVE , ARMSTRONG ALONA , EVERS STEPHANIE , WILLIAMS PAUL , ZAKARIA ZURIATI , CHIN SING YUN , BALLE HANSEN SUNE , CAMPOS-ARCEIZ AHIMSA , LATIF MOHD TALIB , SAYOK ALEX , THAM MUN HOU
Published: February 2014

There is a need for coordinated research for the sustainable management of tropical peatland. Malaysia has 6% of global tropical peat by area and peatlands there are subject to land use change at an unprecedented rate. This paper describes a stakeholder engagement exercise that identified 95 priority research questions for peatland in Malaysia, organized into nine themes. Analysis revealed the need for fundamental scientific research, with strong representation across the themes of environmental change, ecosystem services, and conversion, disturbance and degradation. Considerable uncertainty remains about Malaysia's baseline conditions for peatland, including questions over total remaining area of peatland, water table depths, soil characteristics, hydrological function, biogeochemical processes and ecology. More applied and multidisciplinary studies involving researchers from the social sciences are required. The future sustainability of Malaysian peatland relies on coordinating research agendas via a ‘knowledge hub’ of researchers, strengthening the role of peatlands in land-use planning and development processes, stricter policy enforcement, and bridging the divide between national and provincial governance. Integration of the economic value of peatlands into existing planning regimes is also a stakeholder priority. Finally, current research needs to be better communicated for the benefit of the research community, for improved societal understanding and to inform policy processes.
Female tidal mudflat crabs represent a critical food resource for migratory Red-crowned Cranes in the Yellow River Delta, China
Authors: LI DONGLAI , DING YUQING , YUAN YING , LLOYD HUW , ZHANG ZHENGWANG
Published: February 2014

Staging sites are vital for large-sized migratory cranes, which require high-protein food sources during migration. In this study, we used field surveys and faecal analysis to determine the migration patterns and dietary composition of the globally threatened Red-crowned CraneGrus japonensispopulation that migrates and stages at the Yellow River Delta Nature Reserve (YRDNR), Eastern China. Analysis of 135 faecal samples collected during the migration season in 2008, 2010 and 2011 showed that 78.8% of the faeces comprised > 90% dry mass of tidal mudflat crabHelice tientsinensisremains, suggesting that tidal mudflat crab was an important source of food for these Red-crowned Cranes. Smaller percentages of two other crab species (Eriocheir sinensis,Macrophthalmus dilatatum), fish remains, ragwormsHediste diversicolorand vegetation were also detected in the faecal samples. Consumption of tidal mudflat crabs was found to increase from autumn through to spring. Surveys of tidal mudflat crabs from YRDNR revealed that female crabs have significantly smaller body size (dry mass) but higher energy reserve ratio (ash-free dry mass per body mass) compared to males. Red-crowned Cranes fed predominantly on small and medium-sized female crabs, with a female to male ratio of 5:1 in the diet, compared with the 1:2 ratio of female to male crabs found within the coastal wetland crab population. Our findings suggest that tidal mudflat crabs represent a critical food source for the migratory Red-crowned Crane population in YRDNR, and future crane conservation strategies should encompass the necessary measures to conserve the tidal mudflat crab population at this staging site.
Use of a Gum Elastic Bougie in a Penetrating Neck Trauma
Authors: Daniel Yann , de Regloix Stanislas , Kaiser Eric
Published: February 2014

The case of a patient with a zone II penetrating neck injury who was intubated successfully utilizing the gum elastic bougie (GEB) is reported. He presented at a forward operational base in Afghanistan with a shrapnel wound in his neck as well as a cough and hoarseness. There were two wounds on each side of his laryngeal cartilages. The patient's breathing rate gradually increased and labored inhalation developed while the aeromedical evacuation was delayed for tactical reasons. Subcutaneous emphysema and edema concealed the anatomical landmarks, making a cricothyrotomy unsafe, and no fiber optic devices were available on site. Intratracheal intubation was decided upon by the doctors involved. Because of the anticipated difficultly of intubation, the GEB was used from the outset. During direct laryngoscopy, edema, blood, and mucus concealed the anatomic reliefs of the larynx. The glottis was not visible. On the second attempt, “clicks” were clearly perceived and the tube was railroaded over the bougie. Finally, the patient was evacuated to an Afghan military hospital.

In this report, the benefit-risk balance for the use of the GEB in penetrating neck trauma is discussed. Although the use of the GEB cannot be recommended in all cases of penetrating neck injury, it should be considered as an option. This technique is not without risk, but in very remote settings or hostile environments, especially when cricothyrotomy is not possible, it can be lifesaving.

DanielY, de RegloixS, KaiserE. Use of a gum elastic bougie in a penetrating neck trauma. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2014;29(2):1-2.
Together or apart: Learning of translation-ambiguous words
Authors: DEGANI TAMAR , TSENG ALISON M. , TOKOWICZ NATASHA
Published: February 2014

In a multiple-session training study, native English speakers learned foreign Dutch vocabulary items that mapped to English either in a one-to-one way (translation-unambiguous) or in a one-to-many way (translation-ambiguous), such that two Dutch words corresponded to a single English translation. Critically, these two translation-ambiguous Dutch words were taught on consecutive trials in the same session, or were presented separately, such that each word was taught in a separate session. Translation-ambiguous words were produced and recognized substantially less accurately than translation-unambiguous words on tests administered one and three weeks after training. An ambiguity advantage emerged, however, in a free-recall test. Interestingly, teaching both translations together led to superior performance over teaching them in separate sessions, in which case the translation learned first enjoyed a considerable advantage over that learned second. These findings underscore the importance of order of acquisition in second-language vocabulary learning, and have practical implications for language instruction.
Electron Microscopy and Electron Energy-Loss Spectroscopy Study of Nd1−xSrxCoO3−δ (0≤x≤1) System
Authors: Boulahya Khalid , Hassan Manar , Minguez Jesús C.G. , Nicolopoulos Stavros
Published: February 2014

A solid solution of Nd1−xSrxCoO3−δ (with x=0, 1/3, 2/3, and 1) has been prepared and characterized by a combination of X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS). The structural characterization indicates that Nd-doped materials present an orthorhombic symmetry with a=√2xap, b=√2xap, and c=2xap (ap refers to lattice parameter of simple cubic perovskite), while SrCoO2.5 has an orthorhombic symmetry with a=√2xap, b=4xap, and c=√2xap. EELS analysis revealed that Co are in 3+ oxidation states but in different spin configurations.
Optimization circuit model of a multiconductor transmission line
Authors: Mejdoub Youssef , Rouijaa Hicham , Ghammaz Abdelilah
Published: February 2014

This paper presents an optimization circuit model of multiconductor transmission lines in the time domain. Several methods allow calculation of the currents and the tensions distributed on the uniform transmission line. Most of these methods are limited to lines with constant losses, and only for linear loads. The macro-model we propose, using Pade approximant, employs more variables and allows it to reduce the necessary cells' number in modelization than the traditional cells cascade method. This macro-model, using the Modified Nodal Analysis method (MNA), is suitable for an inclusion in circuit simulator, such as Esacap, Spice, and Saber. The MNA method offers an efficient means to discretize transmission lines on real and complex cells compared to the conventional lumped discretization. In addition, the model can directly handle frequency-dependent line parameters in the time domain. An example, with experimental measures taken from literature, is presented to validate the model we propose, and show its importance. It is necessary for assuring the results validity obtained from Pade macro-model to study its stability and passivity.
Present status of NSLS-II design and construction
Authors: Sharma S. , Broadbent A. , Doom L. , Fallier M. , Hseuh H. C. , Kosciuk B. , Ravindranath V. , Shaftan T. , Sitnikov A. , Skaritka J.
Published: February 2014

National Synchrotron Light Source (NSLS-II) is a new 3 GeV, 500 mA, high-brightness synchrotron light source facility being built at the Brookhaven National Laboratory. Approved for construction in January 2009, the NSLS-II project is expected to be completed in June 2014. In this paper we discuss the present status of the mechanical design and construction of some major components of this facility, namely (i) conventional facilities, (ii) injector complex (iii) storage ring, (iv) RF system and (v) beamlines.
US Federal Climate Change Law in Obama’s Second Term†
Authors: Gerrard Michael B. , Welton Shelley
Published: February 2014

This commentary details the United States’ progress in advancing climate change law since President Barrack Obama’s re-election in 2012, in spite of congressional dysfunction and opposition. It describes how the Obama administration is building upon earlier regulatory efforts by using existing statutory authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from both new and existing power plants. It also explains the important role the judiciary has played in facilitating more robust executive actions, while at the same time courts have rejected citizen efforts to force judicial remedies for the problem of climate change. Finally, it suggests some reasons why climate change has gained more prominence in the Obama administration’s second term agenda and considers how domestic actions help the United States to reposition itself in international climate diplomacy.
MHC-dependent inhibition of uterine NK cells impedes fetal growth and decidual vascular remodelling
Authors: Kieckbusch Jens , Gaynor Louise M. , Moffett Ashley , Colucci Francesco
Published: February 2014

NK cells express variable receptors that engage polymorphic MHC class I molecules and regulate their function. Maternal NK cells accumulate at the maternal-fetal interface and can interact with MHC class I molecules from both parents. The relative contribution of the two sets of parental MHC molecules to uterine NK cell function is unknown. Here we show that, in mice, maternal and not paternal MHC educates uterine NK cells to mature and acquire functional competence. The presence of an additional MHC allele that binds more inhibitory than activating NK cell receptors results in suppressed NK cell function, compromised uterine arterial remodelling and reduced fetal growth. Notably, reduced fetal growth occurs irrespectively of the parental origin of the inhibitory MHC. This provides biological evidence for the impact of MHC-dependent NK inhibition as a risk factor for human pregnancy-related complications associated with impaired arterial remodelling.
Recent progress of ICP-MS in the development of metal-based drugs and diagnostic agents
Authors: Timerbaev Andrei R.
Published: February 2014

Critical analysis of current capabilities, limitations, and trends of ICP-MS applied to the development of metal-based medicines is conducted.
Particle separation using virtual deterministic lateral displacement (vDLD)
Authors: Collins David J. , Alan Tuncay , Neild Adrian
Published: February 2014

Sorting of particles measuring 6.6 μm and 7.0 μm has been achieved in a scheme in which lateral displacement is deterministic.