bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Architecture for Direct Measurement of Transfemoral Prosthesis Gait Beyond the Gait Laboratory Setting
Authors: Gacioch Jonathan A. , Fite Kevin B. , Arabian Adam K. , Kobayashi Toshiki , Boone David A. , Orendurff Michael S.
Published: December 2014

The work presented here details the development of a wireless instrumentation architecture for direct gait measurement in a transfemoral prosthesis. The system comprises a pair of multi-axis load cells located proximal to the ankle and knee joints of the prosthesis that provide a measure of moments and axial force above and below the prosthetic knee. The kinetic measurements are supplemented with knee kinematics measured using a modular goniometer attached lateral to the prosthetic knee and ground contact as indicated with a pneumatic sensor at the prosthetic heel. Each instrument wirelessly transmits collected data to host PCs, enabling direct gait measurements free of the constraints of a conventional gait laboratory setting. The data acquisition system was evaluated with a single subject with unilateral transfemoral amputation walking with a polycentric knee, composite energy-return foot, and daily-use socket. Experimental results were collected for the subject walking through a theater, enabling the rapid acquisition of gait data for level-ground walking and incline ascent/descent without the need for a motion-capture camera array or floor-embedded force plates.
A Multi-Stage Optimization Formulation for MPC-Based Obstacle Avoidance in Autonomous Vehicles Using a LIDAR Sensor
Authors: Liu Jiechao , Jayakumar Paramsothy , Stein Jeffrey L. , Ersal Tulga
Published: December 2014

The dynamics of an autonomous unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) that is at least the size of a passenger vehicle are critical to consider during obstacle avoidance maneuvers to ensure vehicle safety. Methods developed so far do not take vehicle dynamics and sensor limitations into account simultaneously and systematically to guarantee the vehicle’s dynamical safety during avoidance maneuvers. To address this gap, this paper presents a model predictive control (MPC) based obstacle avoidance algorithm for high-speed, large-size UGVs that perceives the environment only through the information provided by a sensor, takes into account the sensing and control delays and the dynamic limitations of the vehicle, and provides smooth and continuous optimal solutions in terms of minimizing travel time. Specifically, information about the environment is obtained using an on-board Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) sensor. Ensuring the vehicle’s dynamical safety is translated into avoiding single tire lift-off. The obstacle avoidance problem is formulated as a multi-stage optimal control problem with a unique optimal solution. To solve the optimal control problem, it is transcribed into a nonlinear programming (NLP) problem using a pseudo-spectral method, and solved using the interior-point method. Sensing and control delays are explicitly taken into consideration in the formulation. Simulation results show that the algorithm is capable of generating smooth control commands to avoid obstacles while guaranteeing dynamical safety.
An Adaptive Vehicle Stability Control Strategy Using Tire Slip-Angle Feedback
Authors: Arat Mustafa Ali , Taheri Saied
Published: December 2014

The dynamics at the tire road contact have an immense effect on the vehicle’s handling and stability characteristics as the majority of the forces and moments acting on the vehicle chassis are generated at the tire contact patch. Sudden changes at this contact patch results in abrupt variations in vehicle characteristics which may lead to lose of control for the inexperienced driver. The active safety systems available today seek to prevent such unintended vehicle behavior by assisting drivers in maintaining control of their vehicles. Nevertheless, the lack of knowledge about the tire-road interactions highly limits their effectiveness. Motivated by this opportunity and necessity in the field, this study develops a tire slip-angle estimation algorithm and an adaptive control strategy to improve vehicle stability. The estimator uses a sensor fusion approach that integrates feedback from a concept technology, namely the intelligent tire with a model based nonlinear observer to provide information on tire forces and slip-angle. The proposed control and observer algorithms are evaluated using numerical analysis under a double lane change maneuver. To get a better measure of possible improvements in vehicle performance, the tests are executed together with baseline algorithm inspired by a conventional system. The results demonstrate that the proposed algorithms can successfully negotiate the given tasks as well as promising considerable improvements over the baseline system.
Simultaneous Resonance of Soft AC Doubly Actuated MEMS Resonators
Authors: Caruntu Dumitru I. , Reyes Christian
Published: December 2014

This paper deals with electrostatically actuated microelectromechanical (MEMS) cantilever resonators under soft AC double actuation. The cantilever is between two parallel ground plates. The two AC frequencies are one near half natural frequency, and the other near natural frequency. There is a phase difference between the two voltages. The system undergoes a simultaneous resonance. The voltage-amplitude response is investigated. The effects of the second voltage, phase difference between voltages, and frequency on the response are reported. The method of multiple scales is used in this paper.
Comparison of Three — Easy to Apply and Innovative — Signal-Based Approaches for Diagnosis of a Technical System With Wear
Authors: Söffker D. , Rothe S.
Published: December 2014

Ensuring the reliability and availability of complex systems such as safe mechatronic systems or cost-sensitive machine components is of increasing importance. Besides the availability of problem-specific sensors and filtering techniques three major issues are of interest:

i) Preparation of the measured data (filtering),

ii) Interpretation of the data with respect to the machines state as well as to the machines’ remaining lifetime or guaranteed functionality, and

iii) establishing the required knowledge behind from available measurements and data.

Core of this contribution is the development and application of easy to apply and easy to interpret algorithms to be used directly with industrial data or measurements from technical systems in operation.

The three approaches applied are

AI: Acoustic Emission (AE) characterized by measurements in combination using a suitable filter to be designed,

AII: data analysis using operating system data feature capturing technique, and

AIII: Adaptive fuzzy-based filtering [1] with training and classification modules.

The approaches are developed in detail due to former research work [2], here they are applied and compared using the same experiment, the shown results are based on experiments. The three approaches use different algorithms but partially different signal sources (from the same experiment). Each of the approaches allows a different and distinguished problem-oriented insight to the complex wear process of the considered system, typical for mechanical engineering-related machines. The comparison between three different approaches for wear diagnosis can be considered as the main idea of this paper which allows insights into the advantages and disadvantages of each of these approaches.
Relationship between listeners' nonnative speech recognition and categorization abilities
Authors: Atagi Eriko , Bent Tessa
Published: December 2014

Enhancement of the perceptual encoding of talker characteristics (indexical information) in speech can facilitate listeners' recognition of linguistic content. The present study explored this indexical-linguistic relationship in nonnative speech processing by examining listeners' performance on two tasks: nonnative accent categorization and nonnative speech-in-noise recognition. Results indicated substantial variability across listeners in their performance on both the accent categorization and nonnative speech recognition tasks. Moreover, listeners' accent categorization performance correlated with their nonnative speech-in-noise recognition performance. These results suggest that having more robust indexical representations for nonnative accents may allow listeners to more accurately recognize the linguistic content of nonnative speech.
Parental Influences on Preschoolers’ TV Viewing Time: Mediation Analyses on Australian and Belgian Data
Authors: De Decker Ellen , Hesketh Kylie , De Craemer Marieke , Hinkley Trina , De Bourdeaudhuij Ilse , Salmon Jo , Cardon Greet
Published: December 2014

Background:

Television viewing is highly prevalent in preschoolers (3–5 years). Because of the adverse health outcomes related to this behavior, it is important to investigate associations and mediators of young children’s television viewing time. This study investigated whether parental rules regarding television viewing time and parental concerns about screen viewing activities mediated the association between parents’ and preschoolers’ television viewing time.

Methods:

Mediation analyses were performed with the product-of-coefficient test on data derived from the Australian HAPPY study (n = 947) and the Belgian sample of the ToyBox-study (n = 1527). Parents reported their own and their child’s television viewing time, their rules regarding television viewing and concerns about their child’s screen viewing activities.

Results:

Parents’ television viewing time was directly associated with preschoolers’ television viewing time and parental rule for television viewing time mediated this association in both samples (14.4% and 8.1% in the Australian and Belgian samples, respectively).

Conclusions:

This study is unique in examining the mediating pathway of parental television viewing and a rule limiting TV viewing time and whether this is consistent in different samples. Due to the consistent importance, both parents’ television viewing time and rules should be targeted in interventions to decrease preschoolers’ television viewing time.
Toward control of electron transfer in donor-acceptor molecules by bond-specific infrared excitation
Authors: Delor Milan , Scattergood Paul A. , Sazanovich Igor V. , Parker Anthony W. , Greetham Gregory M. , Meijer Anthony J. H. M. , Towrie Michael , Weinstein Julia A.
Published: December 2014

Electron transfer (ET) from donor to acceptor is often mediated by nuclear-electronic (vibronic) interactions in molecular bridges. Using an ultrafast electronic-vibrational-vibrational pulse-sequence, we demonstrate how the outcome of light-induced ET can be radically altered by mode-specific infrared (IR) excitation of vibrations that are coupled to the ET pathway. Picosecond narrow-band IR excitation of high-frequency bridge vibrations in an electronically excited covalent
trans
-acetylide platinum(II) donor-bridge-acceptor system in solution alters both the dynamics and the yields of competing ET pathways, completely switching a charge separation pathway off. These results offer a step toward quantum control of chemical reactivity by IR excitation.
Science agencies make gains despite tight U.S. budget
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey , Malakoff David
Published: December 2014

NASA, NSF among 2015 winners in difficult year.
Complete Genome Sequence of Bifidobacterium longum GT15: Unique Genes for Russian Strains
Authors: Zakharevich Natalia V. , Averina Olga V. , Klimina Ksenia M. , Kudryavtseva Anna V. , Kasianov Artem S. , Makeev Vsevolod J. , Danilenko Valery N.
Published: December 2014

In this study, we report the first completely annotated genome sequence of the Russian-origin
Bifidobacterium longum
subsp.
longum
strain GT15. We discovered 35 unique genes (UGs) which were detected from only the
B. longum
GT15 genome and were absent from other
B. longum
strain genomes (not of Russian origin).
Impact of Australia's introduction of tobacco plain packs on adult smokers’ pack-related perceptions and responses: results from a continuous tracking survey
Authors: Dunlop Sally M , Dobbins Timothy , Young Jane M , Perez Donna , Currow David C
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To investigate the impact of Australia's plain tobacco packaging policy on two stated purposes of the legislation—increasing the impact of health warnings and decreasing the promotional appeal of packaging—among adult smokers.

Design

Serial cross-sectional study with weekly telephone surveys (April 2006–May 2013). Interrupted time-series analyses using ARIMA modelling and linear regression models were used to investigate intervention effects.

Participants

15 745 adult smokers (aged 18 years and above) in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Random selection of participants involved recruiting households using random digit dialling and selecting the nth oldest smoker for interview.

Intervention

The introduction of the legislation on 1 October 2012.

Outcomes

Salience of tobacco pack health warnings, cognitive and emotional responses to warnings, avoidance of warnings, perceptions regarding one's cigarette pack.

Results

Adjusting for background trends, seasonality, antismoking advertising activity and cigarette costliness, results from ARIMA modelling showed that, 2–3 months after the introduction of the new packs, there was a significant increase in the absolute proportion of smokers having strong cognitive (9.8% increase, p=0.005), emotional (8.6% increase, p=0.01) and avoidant (9.8% increase, p=0.0005) responses to on-pack health warnings. Similarly, there was a significant increase in the proportion of smokers strongly disagreeing that the look of their cigarette pack is attractive (57.5% increase, p<0.0001), says something good about them (54.5% increase, p<0.0001), influences the brand they buy (40.6% increase, p<0.0001), makes their pack stand out (55.6% increase, p<0.0001), is fashionable (44.7% increase, p<0.0001) and matches their style (48.1% increase, p<0.0001). Changes in these outcomes were maintained 6 months postintervention.

Conclusions

The introductory effects of the plain packaging legislation among adult smokers are consistent with the specific objectives of the legislation in regard to reducing promotional appeal and increasing effectiveness of health warnings.
Propagation of p-, T-, and SV-waves at the interface between two solid–liquid media with magnetic field and initial stress in the context of two thermoelastic theories
Authors: Abo-Dahab S.M.
Published: December 2014

In this paper, we study the effects of magnetic field and initial stress on p-, T-, and SV-waves propagation. We investigated the problem of reflection and refraction of thermoelastic waves at a magnetized solid–liquid interface in the presence of initial stress. In the context of classical theory and Green–Lindsay theory of thermoelasticity, the problem has been solved. The boundary conditions applied at the interface are: (i) displacement continuity; (ii) vanishing tangential displacement; (iii) continuity of normal force per unit initial area; (iv) tangential force per unit initial area must vanish; and (v) continuity of temperature. The amplitudes ratios for the incident p-, T-, and SV-waves have been obtained. The reflection and transmittion coefficients from the incident waves are computed numerically, considering the initial stress and magnetic field effect and the results obtained have been presented graphically.
Modelling electromagnetic induction via accelerated electron motion
Authors: Smith Ray T. , Taylor Stephen , Maher Simon
Published: December 2014

The two forms of electromagnetic induction are generally referred to as motional and transformer induction, and although these phenomena have been observed and discussed for well over 150 years, certain aspects remain controversial in the scientific literature. It is well-known that an electromotive force (emf) is induced in a loop of wire encircling a long solenoid carrying alternating current. This is true however even in a region in which there is a negligibly small magnetic or electric field. Although the flux linking concept can explain the induced emf, more recent explanations utilise the concept of vector potential as the causal explanation of induction. In this present investigation, we propose that Weber’s force, based on inter-particle forces, provides a more fundamental explanation. The induced emf is measured directly across a closely wound, 1000 turn narrow coil encircling a long solenoid carrying alternating current. Weber’s force formula has been adapted to the case of transformer induction by treating the solenoid as a stack of current loops and applying the principle of superposition. Analytical calculation is also included for the application of Faraday’s law. Close agreement with experimentally measured values is demonstrated in all cases for low-frequency induction up to around 5 kHz.
A first-principles study of bulk aluminum at high pressure
Authors: Nie J.L. , Ao L. , Zhao F.A. , Jiang M. , Zu X.T.
Published: December 2014

Using ab initio total energy calculations based on density functional theory and a procedure based on minimization of the Gibbs free energy, we calculate the Gibbs free energy for face-centered cubic and hexagonal close-packed aluminum in the temperature range from 0 to 900 K. It is shown that at zero temperature an fcc → hcp phase transition occurs at 181 GPa, and when the temperature is increased to 900 K the phase transition pressure increases slightly. As the pressure increases, the Grüneisen parameter first decreases significantly, then increase sharply at the phase transition pressure, and finally decrease again with further increasing volume compressibility. It turns out that the temperature and pressure have considerable effects on the Grüneisen parameter in certain ranges.
Facile Solvothermal Synthesis of BiOCl/ZnO Heterostructures with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Li Yong-Fang , Zhang Ming , Guo Dan-Lu , He Fei-Xia , Li Ying-Zhu , Wang Ai-Jun
Published: December 2014

Well‐defined nanosheet‐assembled (BiOCl)x(ZnO)1−x nanoflowers were synthesized by a solvothermal method. It was found that ZnO nanoparticles were anchored on the flower‐like BiOCl nanostructures, as demonstrated by varying the initial compositions of the Bi precursor and the volume ratios of mixed solvents (ethylene glycol to water). The as‐prepared (BiOCl)0.6(ZnO)0.4 nanocomposites showed enhanced photocatalytic activity toward rhodamine B degradation under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. And the photocatalytic mechanism was discussed in detail.
Computer-Assisted Segmentation of Videocapsule Images Using Alpha-Divergence-Based Active Contour in the Framework of Intestinal Pathologies Detection
Authors: Meziou L. , Histace A. , Precioso F. , Romain O. , Dray X. , Granado B. , Matuszewski B. J.
Published: December 2014

Visualization of the entire length of the gastrointestinal tract through natural orifices is a challenge for endoscopists. Videoendoscopy is currently the “gold standard” technique for diagnosis of different pathologies of the intestinal tract. Wireless capsule endoscopy (WCE) has been developed in the 1990s as an alternative to videoendoscopy to allow direct examination of the gastrointestinal tract without any need for sedation. Nevertheless, the systematic postexamination by the specialist of the 50,000 (for the small bowel) to 150,000 images (for the colon) of a complete acquisition using WCE remains time-consuming and challenging due to the poor quality of WCE images. In this paper, a semiautomatic segmentation for analysis of WCE images is proposed. Based on active contour segmentation, the proposed method introduces alpha-divergences, a flexible statistical similarity measure that gives a real flexibility to different types of gastrointestinal pathologies. Results of segmentation using the proposed approach are shown on different types of real-case examinations, from (multi)polyp(s) segmentation, to radiation enteritis delineation.
English Language Learner Boys and Girls Reading and Math Achievement as a Function of Early-Exit and Late-Exit Bilingual Programs: A Multiyear, Statewide Analysis
Authors: Martinez Rosa Maria , Slate John R. , Martinez-Garcia Cynthia
Published: December 2014

We examined the reading and math performance of English Language Learner boys and girls in Grades 3, 4, 5, and 6 as a function of early-exit or late-exit transitional bilingual education program. Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills Reading and Mathematics scores of all English Language Learner boys and girls who were enrolled in either early-exit or late-exit bilingual education programs were analyzed for the 2008-2009, 2009-2010, and 2010-2011 school years. Results were not consistent across reading and math, across the 4 grade levels, and across the 3 school years. On the TAKS Reading test, 5 instances were present in which statistically significant differences were revealed for boys and 11 for girls. On the TAKS Mathematics test, 8 statistically significant results were revealed for boys and 6 for girls. These statistically significant differences were not consistently in favor of either the early-exit or the late-exit bilingual education programs. Moreover, the differences that were present reflected small to trivial effect sizes. As such, neither the early-exit nor the late-exit bilingual education program was demonstrated to be more effective than its counterpart.
Cooperative Target Localization and Tracking with Incomplete Measurements
Authors: Zhang Yi , Li Yinya , Qi Guoqing , Sheng Andong
Published: December 2014

This study investigates a problem on target localization and tracking for two cases where either the slant range information of dual stations is lost or the slant range information of one station and the pitch angle information of the other one are missing. The models of cooperative localization with incomplete measurements are presented and the Kalman filtering algorithm is applied for target tracking. For improving tracking precision, a strategy of observers path planning based on the gradient of circular error probability (CEP) is integrated into the Kalman filtering algorithm. Several numerical examples are used to illustrate the tracking performance of the proposed algorithm with the corresponding root mean square error (RMSE) and Cramer-Rao lower bound (CRLB). The Monte Carlo simulation results validate the effectiveness of the presented algorithm.
Safety, Correlative Markers, and Clinical Results of Adjuvant Nivolumab in Combination with Vaccine in Resected High-Risk Metastatic Melanoma
Authors: Gibney Geoffrey T. , Kudchadkar Ragini R. , DeConti Ronald C. , Thebeau Melissa S. , Czupryn Maria P. , Tetteh Leticia , Eysmans Cabell , Richards Allison , Schell Michael J. , Fisher Kate J. , Horak Christine E. , Inzunza H. David , Yu Bin , Martinez Alberto J. , Younos Ibrahim , Weber Jeffrey S.
Published: December 2014

Purpose: The anti-programmed death-1 (PD-1) antibody nivolumab (BMS-936558) has clinical activity in patients with metastatic melanoma. Nivolumab plus vaccine was investigated as adjuvant therapy in resected stage IIIC and IV melanoma patients.

Experimental Design: HLA-A*0201 positive patients with HMB-45, NY-ESO-1, and/or MART-1 positive resected tumors received nivolumab (1 mg/kg, 3 mg/kg, or 10 mg/kg i.v.) with a multi-peptide vaccine (gp100, MART-1, and NY-ESO-1 with Montanide ISA 51 VG) every 2 weeks for 12 doses followed by nivolumab maintenance every 12 weeks for 8 doses. Primary objective was safety and determination of a maximum tolerated dose (MTD). Secondary objectives included relapse-free survival (RFS), overall survival (OS), and immunologic correlative studies.

Results: Thirty-three patients were enrolled. Median age was 47 years; 55% were male. Two patients had stage IIIC disease; 31 patients had stage IV disease. Median follow-up was 32.1 months. MTD was not reached. Most common related adverse events (>40%) were vaccine injection site reaction, fatigue, rash, pruritus, nausea, and arthralgias. Five related grade 3 adverse events [hypokalemia (1), rash (1), enteritis (1), and colitis (2)] were observed. Ten of 33 patients relapsed. Estimated median RFS was 47.1 months; median OS was not reached. Increases in CTLA-4+/CD4+, CD25+Treg/CD4+, and tetramer specific CD8+ T-cell populations were observed with treatment (P < 0.05). Trends for lower baseline myeloid-derived suppressor cell and CD25+Treg/CD4+ populations were seen in nonrelapsing patients; PD-L1 tumor status was not significantly associated with RFS.

Conclusions: Nivolumab with vaccine is well tolerated as adjuvant therapy and demonstrates immunologic activity with promising survival in high-risk resected melanoma, justifying further study. Clin Cancer Res; 21(4); 712–20. ©2014 AACR.
Effects of DNA Damage in Smooth Muscle Cells in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Gray Kelly , Kumar Sheetal , Figg Nichola , Harrison James , Baker Lauren , Mercer John , Littlewood Trevor , Bennett Martin
Published: December 2014

Rationale:

DNA damage and the DNA damage response have been identified in human atherosclerosis, including in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). However, although double-stranded breaks (DSBs) are hypothesized to promote plaque progression and instability, in part, by promoting cell senescence, apoptosis, and inflammation, the direct effects of DSBs in VSMCs seen in atherogenesis are unknown.

Objective:

To determine the presence and effect of endogenous levels of DSBs in VSMCs on atherosclerosis.

Methods and Results:

Human atherosclerotic plaque VSMCs showed increased expression of multiple DNA damage response proteins in vitro and in vivo, particularly the MRE11/RAD50/NBS1 complex that senses DSB repair. Oxidative stress–induced DSBs were increased in plaque VSMCs, but DSB repair was maintained. To determine the effect of DSBs on atherosclerosis, we generated 2 novel transgenic mice lines expressing NBS1 or C-terminal deleted NBS1 only in VSMCs, and crossed them with apolipoprotein E
−/−
mice. SM22α-NBS1/apolipoprotein E
−/−
VSMCs showed enhanced DSB repair and decreased growth arrest and apoptosis, whereas SM22α-(ΔC)NBS1/apolipoprotein E
−/−
VSMCs showed reduced DSB repair and increased growth arrest and apoptosis. Accelerating or retarding DSB repair did not affect atherosclerosis extent or composition. However, VSMC DNA damage reduced relative fibrous cap areas, whereas accelerating DSB repair increased cap area and VSMC content.

Conclusions:

Human atherosclerotic plaque VSMCs show increased DNA damage, including DSBs and DNA damage response activation. VSMC DNA damage has minimal effects on atherogenesis, but alters plaque phenotype inhibiting fibrous cap areas in advanced lesions. Inhibiting DNA damage in atherosclerosis may be a novel target to promote plaque stability.
Persistent Cerebrovascular Damage After Stroke in Type Two Diabetic Rats Measured by Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Ding Guangliang , Yan Tao , Chen Jieli , Chopp Michael , Li Lian , Li Qingjiang , Cui Chengcheng , Ning Ruizhuo , Jiang Quan
Published: December 2014

Background and Purpose—

Diabetes mellitus is a disease with vascular components. Consequently, the blood–brain barrier disruption after stroke may differ between diabetic and nondiabetic animals. However, few studies have documented the longitudinal blood–brain barrier disruption afte stroke in diabetic animals. In this study, using MRI, we noninvasively evaluated the blood–brain barrier damage after middle cerebral artery occlusion in diabetic and nondiabetic rats.

Methods—

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) was induced in adult male Wistar rats by administration of a high-fat diet in combination with a single intraperitoneal injection (35 mg/kg) of streptozotocin. T2DM rats (n=9) and nondiabetic wild-type (WT) rats (n=9) were subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion for 2 hours using the filament model. MRI was performed 1 day and then weekly for 5 weeks after middle cerebral artery occlusion for all rats.

Results—

The ischemic lesion volumes after stroke as measured using T
2
maps were not significantly different between the T2DM and WT rats. Compared with the WT rats, the volumes of blood–brain barrier disruption evaluated using contrast-enhanced T
1
-weighted imaging with gadolinium-diethylenetriamine penta-acetic acid and the cerebral hemorrhagic volumes measured with susceptibility-weighted imaging were significantly (
P
<0.05) larger in the T2DM rats from 1 to 5 weeks after stroke; values of diffusion fractional anisotropy were significantly lower in T2DM rats (
P
<0.03) than in WT rats after stroke. These MRI measurements were consistent with histological data.

Conclusions—

Using MRI, T
2
-weighted imaging did not detect significant differences of the ischemic lesion volumes between T2DM and WT rats. In contrast to the WT rats, however, contrast-enhanced T
1
-weighted imaging and susceptibility-weighted imaging identified much more severe ischemic vascular damage, whereas fractional anisotropy demonstrated lower axonal density in the T2DM rats after stroke.
The Dragon Is Flying West: Micro-level Evidence of Chinese Outward Direct Investment
Authors: Chen Wenjie , Tang Heiwai
Published: December 2014

Outward direct investment (ODI) from the People's Republic of China (PRC) is surging. A common perception is that it was driven by the country's resource-seeking and technology-seeking motives. Using a new, unique, and comprehensive dataset that covers close to 10,000 Chinese ODI deals from 1998 to 2009, we find that in contrast to the common perception, over half of the ODI deals are in service sectors, with many of them appearing to be export-related. In addition to documenting the pattern and trend of the PRC's ODI, we empirically examine both the determinants and effects of ODI at the firm level. We find that ex ante larger, more productive, and more export-intensive firms are more likely to start investing abroad. Using matching estimation techniques, we find that ODI is associated with better firm performance, including higher total factor productivity, employment, and export intensity, and greater product innovation. To assess the relative contributions of technology transfer, export promotion, and resource seeking to the positive effects of ODI, we use ODI data merged with customs transaction-level trade data. We find that firms’ ODI participation is associated with significantly better trade performance, measured by export and import volumes, export and import unit values, and number of export destinations. Contrary to perceived technology-seeking and resource-seeking motives, we find no evidence that ODI firms import more capital or intermediate inputs compared to non-ODI firms.
Dakotaseps gen. nov., a replacement name for the lizard genus Dakotasaurus Nydam 2013, a junior homonym of the ichnotaxon Dakotasaurus Branson and Mehl 1932
Authors: NYDAM RANDALL L
Published: December 2014

Dakotasaurus gilletorum Nydam 2013 was erected for two partial mandibles of a paramacellodid-cordylid grade scincomorphan lizard from the early Late Cretaceous (Cenomanian) of southern Utah (Nydam 2013). However, the genus name Dakotasaurus is a junior homonym of the ichnofossil Dakotasaurus Branson and Mehl 1932. Under Article 23.1 of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN 1999) Branson and Mehl’s (1932) name has priority.
New species of Antocha Osten Sacken, 1860 crane flies (Diptera: Limoniidae) for South Korea
Authors: PODENAS SIGITAS , BYUN HYE-WOO
Published: December 2014

New species Antocha (Antocha) koreana from South Korea is described and illustrations of the distinguishing morphological features, including wing venation, male and female genitalia and male antenna, are provided with a discussion on distinguishing newly described species from other similar species. Habitat information for new species is presented. Antocha (Antocha) subconfluenta Alexander, 1930 is new record for Korean fauna and first record from outside Japan.
A new species of Acledra s. str. (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Pentatomidae)
from the highlands of Argentina and Bolivia, with a checklist and key to the species of the nominate subgenus
Authors: FAÚNDEZ EDUARDO I. , RIDER DAVID A. , CARVAJAL MÁRIOM A.
Published: December 2014

Acledra (Acledra) bichromocornis n. sp. from the highlands of Argentina and Bolivia is described. A checklist of the species of Acledra s. str. is provided, including the distribution by country. A key to the species of Acledra s. str. is included.
First Branchial Cleft Anomalies
Authors: Shinn Justin R. , Purcell Patricia L. , Horn David L. , Sie Kathleen C. Y. , Manning Scott C.
Published: December 2014

Objective

This study describes the presentation of first branchial cleft anomalies and compares outcomes of first branchial cleft with other branchial cleft anomalies with attention to otologic findings.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Pediatric tertiary care facility.

Methods

Surgical databases were queried to identify children with branchial cleft anomalies. Descriptive analysis defined sample characteristics. Risk estimates were calculated using Fisher’s exact test.

Results

Queries identified 126 subjects: 27 (21.4%) had first branchial cleft anomalies, 80 (63.4%) had second, and 19 (15.1%) had third or fourth. Children with first anomalies often presented with otologic complications, including otorrhea (22.2%), otitis media (25.9%), and cholesteatoma (14.8%). Of 80 children with second branchial cleft anomalies, only 3 (3.8%) had otitis. Compared with children with second anomalies, children with first anomalies had a greater risk of requiring primary incision and drainage: 16 (59.3%) vs 2 (2.5%) (relative risk [RR], 3.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.4‐5; P <. 0001). They were more likely to have persistent disease after primary excision: 7 (25.9%) vs 2 (2.5%) (RR, 3; 95% CI, 1.9‐5; P =. 0025). They were more likely to undergo additional surgery: 8 (29.6%) vs 3 (11.1%) (RR, 2.9; 95% CI, 1.8‐4.7; P =. 0025). Of 7 persistent first anomalies, 6 (85.7%) were medial to the facial nerve, and 4 (57.1%) required ear‐specific surgery for management.

Conclusions

Children with first branchial cleft anomalies often present with otologic complaints. They are at increased risk of persistent disease, particularly if anomalies lie medial to the facial nerve. They may require ear‐specific surgery such as tympanoplasty.
High-flow nasal cannula oxygen versus non-invasive ventilation in patients with acute hypoxaemic respiratory failure undergoing flexible bronchoscopy - a prospective randomised trial
Authors: Simon Marcel , Braune Stephan , Frings Daniel , Wiontzek Ann-Kathrin , Klose Hans , Kluge Stefan
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Critically ill patients with respiratory failure undergoing bronchoscopy have an increased risk of hypoxaemia-related complications. Previous studies have shown that in awake, hypoxaemic patients non-invasive ventilation (NIV) is helpful in preventing gas exchange deterioration during bronchoscopy. An alternative and increasingly used means of oxygen delivery is its application via high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC). This study was conducted to compare HFNC with NIV in patients with acute hypoxaemic respiratory failure undergoing flexible bronchoscopy.

Methods

Prospective randomised trial randomising 40 critically ill patients with hypoxaemic respiratory failure to receive either NIV or HFNC during bronchoscopy in the intensive care unit.

Results

After the initiation of NIV and HFNC, oxygen levels were significantly higher in the NIV group compared to the HFNC group. Two patients were unable to proceed to bronchoscopy after the institution of HFNC due to progressive hypoxaemia. During bronchoscopy, one patient on HFNC deteriorated due to intravenous sedation requiring non-invasive ventilatory support. Bronchoscopy was well tolerated in all other patients. There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding heart rate, mean arterial pressure and respiratory rate. Three patients in the NIV group and one patient in the HFNC group were intubated within 24 hours after the end of bronchoscopy (P = 0.29).

Conclusions

The application of NIV was superior to HFNC with regard to oxygenation before, during and after bronchoscopy in patients with moderate to severe hypoxaemia. In patients with stable oxygenation under HFNC, subsequent bronchoscopy was well tolerated.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01870765. Registered 30 May 2013.
Humanization of the mouse mammary gland by replacement of the luminal layer with genetically-engineered preneoplastic human cells
Authors: Verbeke Stephanie , Richard Elodie , Monceau Elodie , Schmidt Xenia , Rousseau Benoit , Velasco Valerie , Bernard David , Bonnefoi Herve , MacGrogan Gaetan , Iggo Richard D
Published: December 2014

Introduction

The cell of origin for estrogen receptor α (ERα) positive breast cancer is probably a luminal stem cell in the terminal duct lobular units. To model these cells we have used the murine myoepithelial layer in the mouse mammary ducts as a scaffold upon which to build a human luminal layer. To prevent squamous metaplasia, a common artifact in genetically engineered breast cancer models, we sought to limit activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) during in vitro cell culture before grafting the cells.

Methods

Human reduction mammoplasty cells were grown in vitro in WIT medium. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) in the medium was replaced with amphiregulin and neuregulin to decrease activation of EGFR and increase activation of EGFR homologs 3 and 4 (ERBB3 and ERBB4). Lentiviral vectors were used to express oncogenic transgenes and fluorescent proteins. Human mammary epithelial cells were mixed with irradiated mouse fibroblasts and matrigel, then injected through the nipple into the mammary ducts of immunodeficient mice. Engrafted cells were visualized by stereomicroscopy for fluorescent proteins and characterized by histology and immunohistochemistry.

Results

Growth of normal mammary epithelial cells in conditions favoring ERBB3/4 signaling prevented squamous metaplasia in vitro. Normal human cells were quickly lost after intraductal injection but cells infected with lentiviruses expressing CCND1, MYC, TERT, BMI1 and a short hairpin RNA targeting TP53 were able to engraft and progressively replace the luminal layer in the mouse mammary ducts, resulting in the formation of an extensive network of humanized ducts. Despite expressing multiple oncogenes, the human cells formed a morphologically normal luminal layer. Expression of a single additional oncogene, PIK3CA-H1047R, converted the cells into invasive cancer cells. The resulting tumors were ERα+, Ki67+ luminal B adenocarcinomas that were resistant to treatment with fulvestrant.

Conclusions

Injection of preneoplastic human mammary epithelial cells into the mammary ducts of immunodeficient mice leads to replacement of the murine luminal layer with morphologically normal human cells. Genetic manipulation of the injected cells makes it possible to study defined steps in the transformation of human mammary epithelial cells in a more physiological environment than has hitherto been possible.
Hiding in the dark: uncovering cancer drivers through image-guided genomics
Authors: Yoshihara Kosuke , Verhaak Roel GW
Published: December 2014

Genome analysis which takes into account tumor purity leads to discovery of PTEN as a tumor suppressor gene in high-grade serous ovarian cancer.

See related research, http://genomebiology.com/2014/15/12/526
Bond strength of a universal bonding agent and other contemporary dental adhesives applied on enamel, dentin, composite, and porcelain
Authors: Isolan Cristina P , Valente Lisia L , Münchow Eliseu A , Basso Gabriela R , Pimentel Alice H , Schwantz Jülia K , da Silva Andreza V , Moraes Rafael R
Published: December 2014

The aim of this study was to compare the bonding ability of a universal dental adhesive (Scotchbond Universal/SBU, 3 M ESPE) and other contemporary dental bonding agents applied to different substrates: enamel, dentin, resin composite, and porcelain. SBU was tested using both the etch-and-rinse/ER and self-etch/SE bonding approaches. The other adhesives tested were Scotchbond Multipurpose/SBMP (3 M ESPE), Single Bond 2/SB (3 M ESPE), and Clearfil SE Bond/CLSE (Kuraray). Specimens of each substrate were prepared for microtensile bond strength test/μTBS (dentin and composite) or shear/SBS test (enamel and porcelain). In composite and porcelain, negative (no treatment) and positive (silane + SB) control groups were tested. Data were analyzed using One-Way ANOVA and Tukey’s test (α = 0.05). In enamel, SBU resulted in similar SBS (p ≥ 0.458) compared to all other adhesives (SBMP = 19.0 ± 10.2B; SB = 26.6 ± 9.3A; CLSE = 26.0 ± 8.5A; SBU-SE = 23.5 ± 8.4AB; SBU-ER = 22.6 ± 9.9AB). In dentin, SBU showed similar results to all other materials (p ≥ 0.123), except SB (p ≤ 0.045), which showed the highest μTBS (SBMP = 35.4 ± 10.5AB; SB = 39.4 ± 11.2A; CLSE = 36.6 ± 10.9AB; SB-SE = 28.1 ± 13.7B; SBU-ER = 26.9 ± 7.4B). In resin composite, SBU and the positive control presented similar μTBS (p = 0.963), and were higher than the negative control (p ≤ 0.001) (SBU = 28.4 ± 9.9A; positive control = 29.5 ± 11.7A; negative control = 12.1 ± 8.7B). In porcelain, SBU had higher SBS than the positive control (p = 0.001), which showed higher SBS (p < 0.001) than the negative control (SBU = 29.0 ± 6.9A; positive control = 21.0 ± 7.0B; negative control = 5.3 ± 2.7C). Equilibrium of adhesive and mixed failures occurred in dentin and resin composite, whereas a predominance of adhesive failures was observed in enamel and porcelain. In conclusion, the bonding ability of the universal adhesive was comparable to the other contemporary bonding agents tested, although it was dependent on the substrate evaluated. Universal adhesives seem to have potential applicability in adhesive dentistry.
Internalization of High-density Lipoproteins Bearing Arginine-rich Peptides
Authors: Murakami Tatsuya , Okamoto Haruki , Kim Hyungjin
Published: December 2014

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) nanoparticles were prepared that bore a number of arginine (Arg)-rich peptides (TAT) or related derivatives possessing decreased Arg residues, and their internalization analyzed using three different fluorescent dyes. Substitution of two C-terminal Arg residues of TAT peptide was sufficient to abolish TAT-dependent internalization with HDL, which was essentially the same as the phenomena reported for a single TAT peptide alone. Additionally, high releasability of a dye from the HDLs compensated for this abolishment.
Atuação do trabalho em redes: estudo de caso com uma puérpera
Authors: Chaves Jéssica , Haack Bassani Débora Cristina , Derlan Camila Braga , Allgayer Manuela Filter Allgayer , Ghignatti Bianca , Koepp Janine , Possuelo Lia
Published: December 2014

O estudo objetivou avaliar a importância do trabalho em redes e ação multidisciplinar dos diferentes níveis de atenção em saúde. Estudo descritivo, de abordagem qualitativa, do tipo estudo de caso. Foi realizada uma entrevista com a puérpera, e feita uma consulta ao prontuário da paciente. A pesquisa foi realizada em um hospital do interior do estado do RS. S.A.T., 28 anos, 35 semanas de idade gestacional, chega ao Pronto Atendimento em trabalho de parto após uso de Misoprostol. Houve o acompanhamento do caso no Centro de Referência da Assistência Social e Estratégia de Saúde da Família.
PRODUÇÃO DO CUIDADO INTERDISCIPLINAR EM PESSOAS SOROPOSITIVAS: UM ESTUDO DE REPRESENTAÇÕES SOCIAIS.
Authors: França dos Anjos Ana Carolina , Alves Vilela Alba Benemérita , De Oliveira Denize Cristina
Published: December 2014

Introdução: A Síndrome de Imunodeficiência Adquirida (Aids) é uma doença crônica, transmissível e autoimune, o entendimento sobre a doença possibilita o processo de reformulação na estrutura do atendimento em saúde, assim o presente estudo objetiva compreender as representações sociais de profissionais de saúde sobre a produção do cuidado interdisciplinar em pessoas soropositivas. Métodos: Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, pautada pela Teoria das Representações Sociais, realizada no Centro de Referência em Saúde Sexual de Jequié - Bahia. Os dados foram coletados através da entrevista semiestruturada realizada com oito profissionais de saúde. Resultados: Na análise foi utilizada a Técnica de Análise de Conteúdo Temática, emergindo as seguintes categorias: visão dos trabalhadores de saúde sobre ações interdisciplinares ao indivíduo com HIV/Aids; prática do profissional de saúde no cuidar de pacientes com HIV/Aids; atuação da equipe de saúde nas relações paciente – família e evolução dos cuidados prestados pelo profissional de saúde ao indivíduo soropositivo. Conclusão: As iniciativas de atenção integral são expressas pelos profissionais como importante ferramenta do cuidado, através da atuação interdisciplinar, porém essa ideia vem sendo construída e adaptada à realidade da epidemia.
APOIO SOCIAL E FAMILIAR AS MÃES DE RECÉM-NASCIDOS DE MUITO BAIXO PESO: ESTUDO A PARTIR DO GENOGRAMA E ECOMAPA
Authors: Zani Adriana Valongo , Souza Giovana Garbelini de
Published: December 2014

Objetivo: Identificar os vínculos apoiadores formados pelas mães que possuíam em seu contexto recém-nascido prematuro de muito baixo peso internados na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal. Método:Trata-se de investigação com abordagem qualitativa. A coleta de dados ocorreu no período de janeiro à maio de 2014 por entrevista semiestruturada, a partir da qual se construíram o genograma e o ecomapa das mães do estudo. Resultados: Apresentam-se os dados relativos a cinco famílias de mães dos prematuros, com peso inferior a 1500 gramas, residentes no interior paranaense. Os resultados permitiram emergir três categorias temáticas: Fortalecimento dos vínculos apoiadores, Vínculos fragilizados e Redes de apoio social encontradas pelas famílias, apontando como principais apoiadores das famílias os próprios familiares, especialmente as avós maternas. Entre os vínculos apoiadores sociais, destacaram-se os serviços de saúde e instituições religiosas. Conclusão:Conclui-se que a identificação dos vínculos apoiadores familiares e sociais poderá subsidiar a qualificação da atenção à saúde das famílias de recém nascido prematuro e de baixo peso em seus diferentes níveis de complexidade.
Ant-App-DB: a smart solution for monitoring arthropods activities, experimental data management and solar calculations without GPS in behavioral field studies
Authors: Ahmed Zeeshan , Zeeshan Saman , Fleischmann Pauline , Rössler Wolfgang , Dandekar Thomas
Published: December 2014

Field studies on arthropod ecology and behaviour require simple and robust monitoring tools, preferably with direct access to an integrated database. We have developed and here present a database tool allowing smart-phone based monitoring of arthropods. This smart phone application provides an easy solution to collect, manage and process the data in the field which has been a very difficult task for field biologists using traditional methods. To monitor our example species, the desert ant Cataglyphis fortis, we considered behavior, nest search runs, feeding habits and path segmentations including detailed information on solar position and Azimuth calculation, ant orientation and time of day. For this we established a user friendly database system integrating the Ant-App-DB with a smart phone and tablet application, combining experimental data manipulation with data management and providing solar position and timing estimations without any GPS or GIS system. Moreover, the new desktop application Dataplus allows efficient data extraction and conversion from smart phone application to personal computers, for further ecological data analysis and sharing. All features, software code and database as well as Dataplus application are made available completely free of charge and sufficiently generic to be easily adapted to other field monitoring studies on arthropods or other migratory organisms. The software applications Ant-App-DB and Dataplus described here are developed using the Android SDK, Java, XML, C# and SQLite Database