bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploiting dynamic timing slack for energy efficiency in ultra-low-power embedded systems
Authors: Cherupalli Hari , Kumar Rakesh , Sartori John
Published: October 2016

Many emerging applications such as the internet of things, wearables, and sensor networks have ultra-low-power requirements. At the same time, cost and programmability considerations dictate that many of these applications will be powered by general purpose embedded microprocessors and microcontrollers, not ASICs. In this paper, we exploit a new opportunity for improving energy efficiency in ultra-low-power processors expected to drive these applications -- dynamic timing slack. Dynamic timing slack exists when an embedded software application executed on a processor does not exercise the processor's static critical paths. In such scenarios, the longest path exercised by the application has additional timing slack which can be exploited for power savings at no performance cost by scaling down the processor's voltage at the same frequency until the longest exercised paths just meet timing constraints. Paths that cannot be exercised by an application can safely be allowed to violate timing constraints. We show that dynamic timing slack exists for many ultra-low-power applications and that exploiting dynamic timing slack can result in significant power savings for many ultra-low-power processors. We also present an automated methodology for identifying dynamic timing slack and selecting a safe operating point for a processor and a particular embedded software. Our approach for identifying and exploiting dynamic timing slack is non-speculative, requires no programmer intervention and little or no hardware support, and demonstrates potential power savings of up to 32%, 25% on average, over a range of embedded applications running on a common ultra-low-power processor, at no performance cost.
Normobaric hyperoxia stimulates superoxide and nitric oxide production in the caudal solitary complex of rat brain slices
Authors: Ciarlone Geoffrey E. , Dean Jay B.
Published: October 2016

Central CO2-chemosensitive neurons in the caudal solitary complex (cSC) are stimulated not only by hypercapnic acidosis, but by hyperoxia as well. While a cellular mechanism for the CO2 response has yet to be isolated, previous data show that a redox-sensitive mechanism underlies neuronal excitability to hyperoxia. However, it remains unknown how changes in Po2 affect the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) in the cSC that can lead to increased cellular excitability and, with larger doses, to cellular dysfunction and death. To this end, we used fluorescence microscopy in real time to determine how normobaric hyperoxia increases the production of key RONS in the cSC. Because neurons in the region are CO2 sensitive, we also examined the potential effects of CO2 narcosis, used during euthanasia before brain slice harvesting, on RONS production. Our findings show that normobaric hyperoxia (0.4 → 0.95 atmospheres absolute O2) increases the fluorescence rates of fluorogenic dyes specific to both superoxide and nitric oxide. Interestingly, different results were seen for superoxide fluorescence when CO2 narcosis was used during euthanasia, suggesting long-lasting changes in superoxide production and/or antioxidant activity subsequent to CO2 narcosis before brain slicing. Further research needs to distinguish whether the increased levels of RONS reported here are merely increases in oxidative and nitrosative signaling or, alternatively, evidence of redox and nitrosative stress.
Interactive effects of maternal cigarette smoke, heat stress, hypoxia, and lipopolysaccharide on neonatal cardiorespiratory and cytokine responses
Authors: McDonald Fiona B. , Chandrasekharan Kumaran , Wilson Richard J. A. , Hasan Shabih U.
Published: October 2016

Maternal cigarette smoke (CS) exposure exhibits a strong epidemiological association with Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, but other environmental stressors, including infection, hyperthermia, and hypoxia, have also been postulated as important risk factors. This study examines whether maternal CS exposure causes maladaptations within homeostatic control networks by influencing the response to lipopolysaccharide, heat stress, and/or hypoxia in neonatal rats. Pregnant dams were exposed to CS or parallel sham treatments daily for the length of gestation. Offspring were studied at postnatal days 6–8 at ambient temperatures (Ta) of 33°C or 38°C. Within each group, rats were allocated to control, saline, or LPS (200 µg/kg) treatments. Cardiorespiratory patterns were examined using head-out plethysmography and ECG surface electrodes during normoxia and hypoxia (10% O2). Serum cytokine concentrations were quantified from samples taken at the end of each experiment. Our results suggest maternal CS exposure does not alter minute ventilation (V̇e) or heart rate (HR) response to infection or high temperature, but independently increases apnea frequency. CS also primes the inflammatory system to elicit a stronger cytokine response to bacterial insult. High Taindependently depresses V̇e but augments the hypoxia-induced increase in V̇e. Moreover, higher Taincreases HR during normoxia and hypoxia, and in the presence of an immune challenge, increases HR during normoxia, and reduces the increase normally associated with hypoxia. Thus, while most environmental risk factors increase the burden on the cardiorespiratory system in early life, hyperthermia and infection blunt the normal HR response to hypoxia, and gestational CS independently destabilizes breathing by increasing apneas.
Day-night dependence of gene expression and inflammatory responses in the remodeling murine heart post-myocardial infarction
Authors: Bennardo Michael , Alibhai Faisal , Tsimakouridze Elena , Chinnappareddy Nirmala , Podobed Peter , Reitz Cristine , Pyle W. Glen , Simpson Jeremy , Martino Tami A.
Published: October 2016

Diurnal or circadian rhythms are fundamentally important for healthy cardiovascular physiology and play a role in timing of onset and tolerance to myocardial infarction (MI) in patients. Whether time of day of MI triggers different molecular and cellular responses that can influence myocardial remodeling is not known. This study was designed to test whether time of day of MI triggers different gene expression, humoral, and innate inflammatory responses that contribute to cardiac repair after MI. Mice were infarcted by left anterior descending coronary artery ligation (MI model) within a 2-h time window either shortly after lights on or lights off, and the early remodeling responses at 8 h postinfarction were examined. We found that sleep-MI preferentially triggers early expression of genes associated with inflammatory responses, whereas wake-MI triggers more genes associated with metabolic pathways and transcription/translation, by microarray analyses. Homozygous clock mutant mice exhibit altered diurnal gene expression profiles, consistent with their cycling before onset of MI. In the first 8 h, crucial for innate immune responses to MI, there are also significant differences in sleep-MI and wake-MI serum cytokine responses and in neutrophil infiltration to infarcted myocardium. By 1-wk post-MI, there are differences in survivorship between the sleep and wake MI mice that could be explained by the different molecular and cellular responses. Our whole body physiology, tissues, and cells exhibit endogenous daily rhythms, and understanding their role in triggering effective responses after MI could lead to new strategies to benefit patients with cardiovascular disease.
Protease-activated receptors in kidney disease progression
Authors: Palygin Oleg , Ilatovskaya Daria V. , Staruschenko Alexander
Published: October 2016

Protease-activated receptors (PARs) are members of a well-known family of transmembrane G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Four PARs have been identified to date, of which PAR1 and PAR2 are the most abundant receptors, and have been shown to be expressed in the kidney vascular and tubular cells. PAR signaling is mediated by an N-terminus tethered ligand that can be unmasked by serine protease cleavage. The receptors are activated by endogenous serine proteases, such as thrombin (acts on PARs 1, 3, and 4) and trypsin (PAR2). PARs can be involved in glomerular, microvascular, and inflammatory regulation of renal function in both normal and pathological conditions. As an example, it was shown that human glomerular epithelial and mesangial cells express PARs, and these receptors are involved in the pathogenesis of crescentic glomerulonephritis, glomerular fibrin deposition, and macrophage infiltration. Activation of these receptors in the kidney also modulates renal hemodynamics and glomerular filtration rate. Clinical studies further demonstrated that the concentration of urinary thrombin is associated with glomerulonephritis and type 2 diabetic nephropathy; thus, molecular and functional mechanisms of PARs activation can be directly involved in renal disease progression. We briefly discuss here the recent literature related to activation of PAR signaling in glomeruli and the kidney in general and provide some examples of PAR1 signaling in glomeruli podocytes.
Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy in Rural Western India: Not Yet a Benign Syndrome
Authors: Desai Devangi , Desai Soaham , Jani Trilok
Published: October 2016

Purpose. To study prevalence of uncontrolled seizures in patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy [JME] and assess factors responsible for it. Methods. An ambispective study of all patients with JME attending our epilepsy clinic was done. We recruited all patients with JME evaluated between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2013 and followed them up to 31 December 2015. Results. Amongst 876 patients with epilepsy, JME was present in 73 patients. Amongst them, 53 [72.6%] had uncontrolled seizures prior to neurology consultation. Factors responsible for uncontrolled seizures included pitfalls in diagnosis like absence of prior neurology consultation missed history of myoclonus in prior consults and pitfalls in interpretation of EEG. Pitfalls in management were incorrect antiepileptic drug use, underdosing of AED, noncompliance with lifestyle, noncompliance with medicines, associated psychogenic nonepileptiform events, patients deliberately missing medicines for secondary gain, and concomitant alternative medicine use. 45 (84.9%) patients had “pseudorefractoriness.” True refractoriness [seizures despite 2 correctly dosed rational drugs] was seen in 8 (15.1%) patients only. Conclusion. Three-fourth of our patients had uncontrolled seizures initially, predominantly due to pitfalls in its diagnosis and management. Improving patient awareness and primary physician training for JME management is the need of the hour.
Evaluating Acupuncture Point and Nonacupuncture Point Stimulation with EEG: A High‐Frequency Power Spectrum Analysis
Authors: Choi Kwang-Ho , Kwon O. Sang , Cho Seong Jin , Lee Sanghun , Kang Suk-Yun , Ahn Seong Hun , Ryu Yeonhee
Published: October 2016

To identify physical and sensory responses to acupuncture point stimulation (APS), nonacupuncture point stimulation (NAPS) and no stimulation (NS), changes in the high‐frequency power spectrum before and after stimulation were evaluated with electroencephalography (EEG). A total of 37 healthy subjects received APS at the LI4 point, NAPS, or NS with their eyes closed. Background brain waves were measured before, during, and after stimulation using 8 channels. Changes in the power spectra of gamma waves and high beta waves before, during, and after stimulation were comparatively analyzed. After NAPS, absolute high beta power (AHBP), relative high beta power (RHBP), absolute gamma power (AGP), and relative gamma power (RGP) tended to increase in all channels. But no consistent notable changes were found for APS and NS. NAPS is believed to cause temporary reactions to stress, tension, and sensory responses of the human body, while APS responds stably compared to stimulation of other parts of the body.
Fractal Characteristics of Rock Fracture Surface under Triaxial Compression after High Temperature
Authors: Xu X. L. , Zhang Z. Z.
Published: October 2016

Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) test on 30 pieces of fractured granite has been researched by using S250MK III SEM under triaxial compression of different temperature (25~1000°C) and confining pressure (0~40 MPa). Research results show that (1) the change of fractal dimension (FD) of rock fracture with temperature is closely related to confining pressure, which can be divided into two categories. In the first category, when confining pressure is in 0~30 MPa, FD fits cubic polynomial fitting curve with temperature, reaching the maximum at 600°C. In the second category, when confining pressure is in 30~40 MPa, FD has volatility with temperature. (2) The FD of rock fracture varies with confining pressure and is also closely related to the temperature, which can be divided into three categories. In the first category, FD has volatility with confining pressure at 25°C, 400°C, and 800°C. In the second category, it increases exponentially at 200°C and 1000°C. In the third category, it decreases exponentially at 600°C. (3) It is found that 600°C is the critical temperature and 30 MPa is the critical confining pressure of granite. The rock transfers from brittle to plastic phase transition when temperature exceeds 600°C and confining pressure exceeds 30 MPa.
Experimental Test of Artificial Potential Field-Based Automobiles Automated Perpendicular Parking
Authors: Dong Yiqun , Zhang Youmin , Ai Jianliang
Published: October 2016

Automobiles automated perpendicular parking using Artificial Potential Field (APF) is discussed in this paper. The Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) used for carrying out experiments is introduced first; UGV configuration, kinematics, and motion controller are included. Based on discretized form of the parking space, the APF is generated. Holonomic path for the vehicle parking is found first; path modification to satisfy minimum turning-radius constraint is performed based on Reeds-Shepp curve connections. Optimization efforts are included to remove extra maneuvers and to reduce length of the path. Afterwards waypoints are generated as reference for the vehicle to track. Perpendicular parking tests with several different start configurations are demonstrated; based on the test results the automated parking framework proposed in this paper is considered to be effective.
Eminectomy for Habitual Luxation of the Temporomandibular Joint with Sedation and Local Anesthesia: A Case Series
Authors: Iwanaga Joe , Nakamura Yoshiaki , Kusukawa Jingo , Tubbs R. Shane
Published: October 2016

Eminectomy which is one of the popular and most effective treatments for habitual temporomandibular joint luxation was first described by Myrhaug in 1951. There are few reports which described eminectomy being performed under local anesthesia and conscious sedation. We present a case series of habitual luxation of the TMJ treated by eminectomy performed under local anesthesia and conscious sedation and general anesthesia. Five patients were examined and found to have recurrent luxation of the TMJ. The age of patients ranged from 18 to 93 years. Bilateral eminectomy of the TMJ was performed for two patients, and unilateral eminectomy was performed for three patients. Two were examined under intravenous propofol sedation and local anesthesia, while three patients were examined under general anesthesia. One patient died from ileus one month after surgery. The follow-up period except for the case that died from ileus ranged from 12 to 33 months. No recurrent dislocation of the TMJ has been identified. Based on our experience and two other series in the literature, eminectomy with sedation and local anesthesia can be considered and might be a good option in elderly patients.
Dealloying Behavior of NiCo and NiCoCu Thin Films
Authors: Peecher Benjamin E. , Hampton Jennifer R.
Published: October 2016

Porous metals and alloys, such as those fabricated via electrochemical dealloying, are of interest for a variety of energy applications, ranging from their potential for enhanced catalytic behavior to their use as high surface area supports for pseudocapacitor materials. Here, the electrochemical dealloying process was explored for electrodeposited binary NiCo and ternary NiCoCu thin films. For each of the four different metal ratios, films were dealloyed using linear sweep voltammetry to various potentials in order to gain insight into the evolution of the film over the course of the linear sweep. Electrochemical capacitance, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were used to examine the structure and composition of each sample before and after linear sweep voltammetry was performed. For NiCo films, dealloying resulted in almost no change in composition but did result in an increased capacitance, with greater increases occurring at higher linear sweep potentials, indicating the removal of material from the films. Dealloying also resulted in the appearance of large pores on the surface of the high nickel percentage NiCo films, while low nickel percentage NiCo films had little observable change in morphology. For NiCoCu films, Cu was almost completely removed at linear sweep potentials greater than 0.5 V versus Ag/AgCl. The linear sweep removed large Cu-rich dendrites from the films, while also causing increases in measured capacitance.
Stem Cells of Dental Origin: Current Research Trends and Key Milestones towards Clinical Application
Authors: Bakopoulou Athina , About Imad
Published: October 2016

Dental Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs), including Dental Pulp Stem Cells (DPSCs), Stem Cells from Human Exfoliated Deciduous teeth (SHED), and Stem Cells From Apical Papilla (SCAP), have been extensively studied using highly sophisticated in vitro and in vivo systems, yielding substantially improved understanding of their intriguing biological properties. Their capacity to reconstitute various dental and nondental tissues and the inherent angiogenic, neurogenic, and immunomodulatory properties of their secretome have been a subject of meticulous and costly research by various groups over the past decade. Key milestone achievements have exemplified their clinical utility in Regenerative Dentistry, as surrogate therapeutic modules for conventional biomaterial‐based approaches, offering regeneration of damaged oral tissues instead of simply “filling the gaps.” Thus, the essential next step to validate these immense advances is the implementation of well‐designed clinical trials paving the way for exploiting these fascinating research achievements for patient well‐being: the ultimate aim of this ground breaking technology. This review paper presents a concise overview of the major biological properties of the human dental MSCs, critical for the translational pathway “from bench to clinic.”
Analysis on the Mechanical Characteristics and Energy Conversion of Sandstone Constituents under Natural and Saturated States
Authors: Liu Xinrong , Liu Jun
Published: October 2016

Given that apparent differences exist between physical and mechanical properties of sandstone constituents under natural and saturated states, uniaxial and triaxial tests of sandstone specimens taken from a deep tunnel in Chongqing under the two states were, respectively, conducted in the laboratory. Analysis on the energy conversion of sandstone constituents under natural and saturated states reveals the varying strain energy conversion mechanisms under the two different conditions. It shows that water saturation has significant effects on the strength and deformation characteristics of sandstone constituents. The load bearing capacity and nondeformability decrease once the sandstone constituents are saturated. The strength weakening due to water in saturated specimens mainly takes place after the dilatancy stressσcdand reaches its maximum at the peak stressσf. Strain energies of sandstone constituents under the saturated state are lower than those under the natural state, which indicates that water reduces the strain energy absorption. The strain energy of specimens at the peak stress point under the two states has a good linear positive correlation with the confining pressure. Moreover, the fitting curve of the case under the natural state has a higher slope, which means that the strain energy under such state is more sensitive to the confining pressure than that under the saturated state.
Nanoscaled Electrocatalytic Optically Modulated ZnO Nanoparticles through Green Process ofPunica granatumL. and Their Antibacterial Activities
Authors: Fuku Xolile , Diallo Abdoulaye , Maaza Malik
Published: October 2016

Most recently, green synthesis of metal oxide nanoparticles has become an interesting subject of the nanoscience and nanotechnology. The use of plant systems has been deemed a green route and a dependable method for nanoparticle biosynthesis, owing to its environmental friendly nature. The present work demonstrates the bioreductive green synthesis of nanosized zinc oxide (ZnO) using peel extracts of pomegranate. Highly crystalline ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) which are 5 nm in particle size were characterised by HRTEM and XRD. FT-IR spectra confirmed the presence of the biomolecules and formation of plant protein-coated ZnO NPs and also the pure ZnO NPs. Electrochemical investigation revealed the redox properties and the conductivity of the as-prepared ZnO nanoparticles. The optical band gap of ZnO NPs was calculated to be 3.48 eV which indicates that ZnO NPs can be used in metal oxide semiconductor-based devices. Further, the nanomaterials were also found to be good inhibitors of bacterial strains at both low and high concentrations of 5–10 mg mL−1.
Efficacy of a Feed Dispenser for Horses in Decreasing Cribbing Behaviour
Authors: Mazzola Silvia , Palestrini Clara , Cannas Simona , Fè Eleonora , Bagnato Gaia Lisa , Vigo Daniele , Frank Diane , Minero Michela
Published: October 2016

Cribbing is an oral stereotypy, tends to develop in captive animals as a means to cope with stress, and may be indicative of reduced welfare. Highly energetic diets ingested in a short time are one of the most relevant risk factors for the development of cribbing. The aim of this study was to verify whether feeding cribbing horses through a dispenser that delivers small quantities of concentrate when activated by the animal decreases cribbing behaviour, modifies feeding behaviour, or induces frustration. Ten horses (mean age 14 y), balanced for sex, breed, and size (mean height 162 cm), were divided into two groups of 5 horses each:CribbingandControl. Animals were trained to use the dispenser and videorecorded continuously for 15 consecutive days from 1 h prior to feeding to 2 h after feeding in order to measure their behaviours. The feed dispenser, Quaryka®, induced an increase in time necessary to finish the ration in both groups of horses (P<0.05). With Quaryka, cribbers showed a significant reduction of time spent cribbing (P<0.05). After removal of the feed dispenser (Post-Quaryka), cribbing behaviour significantly increased. The use of Quaryka may be particularly beneficial in horses fed high-energy diets and ingesting the food too quickly.
New Technique for Tibiotalar Arthrodesis Using a New Intramedullary Nail Device: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Eisenstein Emmanuel D. , Rodriguez Mario , Abdelgawad Amr A.
Published: October 2016

Introduction. Ankle arthrodesis is performed in a variety of methods. We propose a new technique for tibiotalar arthrodesis using a newly designed intramedullary nail.Methods. We proposed development of an intramedullary device for ankle arthrodesis which spared the subtalar joint using a sinus tarsi approach. Standard saw bones models and computer assisted modeling and stress analysis were used to develop different nail design geometries and determine the feasibility of insertion. After the final design was constructed, the device was tested on three cadaveric specimens.Results. Four basic nail geometries were developed. The optimal design was composed of two relatively straight segments, each with a different radius of curvature for their respective tibial and talar component. We successfully implemented this design into three cadaveric specimens.Conclusion. Our newly designed tibiotalar nail provides a new technique for isolated tibiotalar fusion. It utilizes the advantages of a tibiotalar calcaneal nail and spares the subtalar joint. This design serves as the foundation for future research to include compression options across the tibiotalar joint and eventual transition to clinical practice.
Observation of Zenneck-Like Waves over a Metasurface Designed for Launching HF Radar Surface Wave
Authors: Jangal Florent , Bourey Nicolas , Darces Muriel , Issac François , Hélier Marc
Published: October 2016

Since the beginning of the 20th century a controversy has been continuously revived about the existence of the Zenneck Wave. This wave is a theoretical solution of Maxwell’s equations and might be propagated along the interface between the air and a dielectric medium. The expected weak attenuation at large distance explains the constant interest for this wave. Notably in the High Frequency band such a wave had been thought as a key point to reduce the high attenuation observed in High Frequency Surface Wave Radar. Despite many works on that topic and various experiments attempted during one century, there is still an alternation of statements between its existence and its nonexistence. We report here an experiment done during the optimisation of the transmitting antennas for Surface Wave Radars. Using an infrared method, we visualize a wave having the structure described by Zenneck above a metasurface located on a dielectric slab.
First Report of AIDS-Related Burkitt’s Lymphoma Presenting as Bilateral Orbital Masses
Authors: Alves de Almeida Monica , Nesi Cardoso Migliano Porto Juliana , de Brito Lyra Ana Carolina , Calheiros Leite Luiz Arthur , Basilio-de-Oliveira Rodrigo Panno , Neves-Motta Rogério , Correa Andréa Ramos , Raphael de Almeida Ferry Fernando , de Araujo Eyer-Silva Walter , Grechi Pacheco Ronaldo
Published: October 2016

Burkitt’s lymphoma (BL) is an aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and one of the fastest growing tumors in humans. It is an acquired immunodeficiency syndrome- (AIDS-) defining disease and occurs with relatively preserved CD4 cell counts. It rarely affects the orbital region in the setting of AIDS. We report unusual presentation of a fatal case of AIDS-associated BL in a 42-year-old female patient with severe CD4 cell depletion who presented with dramatic fast growing (within days) bilateral orbital masses leading to striking facial deformities. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of bilateral orbital involvement in AIDS-associated BL.
Performance and Behaviour of Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag Imparted to Geopolymer Concrete Structural Elements and Analyzed with ANSYS
Authors: Antonyamaladhas Maria Rajesh , Chachithanantham Selvamony , Ramaswamy Anandakumar
Published: October 2016

This paper deals with the behaviour of geopolymer concrete using ground granulated blast furnace slag and steel fibre to compare with M40 grade cement concrete. The cast GPC specimens were placed in a hot curing chamber at 60∘C temperature for 24 hours and tested after 1, 7, 14, and 28 days of ambient curing to find the strength and durability of hardened concrete. The optimum value of compressive strength was attained at 12 Molarities. Fly ash was replaced by GGBS in GPC with different proportions such as 0% to 60% at 5% interval; the optimum strength value was obtained on 40% replacement. From the test results, the compressive, split-tensile, and flexural strength of GPC specimens were 20%, 43%, and 53% higher than those of the control specimens. Based on the optimum strength mix proportion, the structural elements were cast to investigate the stress-strain relations. The GPC beam and L-section showed 33% and 16% higher value. From the results of acid and sulphate resistance tests, it was found that the strength and weight ratio of GPC were higher than the control specimens. From the simulations, it was found that the experimental test results were approximately equal to the ANSYS.
Study on Coulomb Stress Triggering of the April 2015 M7.8 Nepal Earthquake Sequence
Authors: Wu Jianchao , Hu Qing , Li Weijie , Lei Dongning
Published: October 2016

In April 2015, a M7.8 earthquake occurred less than one month before a M7.3 earthquake near Kodari, Nepal. The Nepal earthquake sequences also include four larger (M > 6) aftershocks. To reveal the interrelation between the main shock and the aftershocks, we check the role of coseismic coulomb stress triggering on aftershocks that follow the M7.8 main shock. Based on the focal mechanisms of the aftershocks and source models of the main shock, the coulomb failure stress changes on both of the focal mechanism nodal planes are calculated. In addition, the coulomb stress changes on the focal sources of each aftershock are also calculated. A large proportion of the M > 6 aftershocks occurred in positive coulomb stress areas triggered by the M7.8 main shock. The secondary triggering effect of the M7.3 aftershock is also found in this paper. More specifically, the M7.3 aftershock promoted failure on the rupture plane of the M6.3 aftershock. Therefore, we may conclude that the majority of larger aftershocks, which accumulated positive coulomb stress changes during the sequence, were promoted or triggered by the main shock failure. It suggests that coulomb stress triggering contributed to the evolution of the Nepal M7.8 earthquake sequence.
Serial Patch Array Antenna for an FMCW Radar Housed in a White Cane
Authors: Pisa Stefano , Pittella Erika , Piuzzi Emanuele
Published: October 2016

The design, realization, and test of the transmitting and receiving antennas for an FMCW radar operating between 24 and 24.25 GHz (ISM band), to be housed in a white cane for improving mobility of visually impaired subjects, have been performed. The coaxial-to-microstrip transition necessary for feeding the antennas has been studied together with the characteristics of serial arrays of increasing number of patches. Based on this study, a serial array with 8 patches has been selected for the transmitting and receiving antennas. The realized structures show a reflection coefficient lower than −10 dB in the ISM band. When the antennas are attached to an FMCW radar board, the radar is able to record reflections from a metallic panel up to a 5 m distance.
Clinically Viable Gene Expression Assays with Potential for Predicting Benefit from MEK Inhibitors
Authors: Brant Roz , Sharpe Alan , Liptrot Tom , Dry Jonathan R. , Harrington Elizabeth A. , Barrett J. Carl , Whalley Nicky , Womack Christopher , Smith Paul , Hodgson Darren R.
Published: October 2016

Purpose: To develop a clinically viable gene expression assay to measure RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK (RAS–ERK) pathway output suitable for hypothesis testing in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) clinical studies.

Experimental Design: A published MEK functional activation signature (MEK signature) that measures RAS–ERK functional output was optimized for NSCLC in silico. NanoString assays were developed for the NSCLC optimized MEK signature and the 147-gene RAS signature. First, platform transfer from Affymetrix to NanoString, and signature modulation following treatment with KRAS siRNA and MEK inhibitor, were investigated in cell lines. Second, the association of the signatures with KRAS mutation status, dynamic range, technical reproducibility, and spatial and temporal variation was investigated in NSCLC formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue (FFPET) samples.

Results: We observed a strong cross-platform correlation and modulation of signatures in vitro. Technical and biological replicates showed consistent signature scores that were robust to variation in input total RNA; conservation of scores between primary and metastatic tumor was statistically significant. There were statistically significant associations between high MEK (P = 0.028) and RAS (P = 0.003) signature scores and KRAS mutation in 50 NSCLC samples. The signatures identify overlapping but distinct candidate patient populations from each other and from KRAS mutation testing.

Conclusions: We developed a technically and biologically robust NanoString gene expression assay of MEK pathway output, compatible with the quantities of FFPET routinely available. The gene signatures identified a different patient population for MEK inhibitor treatment compared with KRAS mutation testing. The predictive power of the MEK signature should be studied further in clinical trials. Clin Cancer Res; 23(6); 1471–80. ©2016 AACR.

See related commentary by Xue and Lito, p. 1365
CREBBPInactivation Promotes the Development of HDAC3-Dependent Lymphomas
Authors: Jiang Yanwen , Ortega-Molina Ana , Geng Huimin , Ying Hsia-Yuan , Hatzi Katerina , Parsa Sara , McNally Dylan , Wang Ling , Doane Ashley S. , Agirre Xabier , Teater Matt , Meydan Cem , Li Zhuoning , Poloway David , Wang Shenqiu , Ennishi Daisuke , Scott David W. , Stengel Kristy R. , Kranz Janice E. , Holson Edward , Sharma Sneh , Young James W. , Chu Chi-Shuen , Roeder Robert G. , Shaknovich Rita , Hiebert Scott W. , Gascoyne Randy D. , Tam Wayne , Elemento Olivier , Wendel Hans-Guido , Melnick Ari M.
Published: October 2016

Somatic mutations in CREBBP occur frequently in B-cell lymphoma. Here, we show that loss of CREBBP facilitates the development of germinal center (GC)–derived lymphomas in mice. In both human and murine lymphomas, CREBBP loss-of-function resulted in focal depletion of enhancer H3K27 acetylation and aberrant transcriptional silencing of genes that regulate B-cell signaling and immune responses, including class II MHC. Mechanistically, CREBBP-regulated enhancers are counter-regulated by the BCL6 transcriptional repressor in a complex with SMRT and HDAC3, which we found to bind extensively to MHC class II loci. HDAC3 loss-of-function rescued repression of these enhancers and corresponding genes, including MHC class II, and more profoundly suppressed CREBBP-mutant lymphomas in vitro and in vivo. Hence, CREBBP loss-of-function contributes to lymphomagenesis by enabling unopposed suppression of enhancers by BCL6/SMRT/HDAC3 complexes, suggesting HDAC3-targeted therapy as a precision approach for CREBBP-mutant lymphomas.

Significance: Our findings establish the tumor suppressor function of CREBBP in GC lymphomas in which CREBBP mutations disable acetylation and result in unopposed deacetylation by BCL6/SMRT/HDAC3 complexes at enhancers of B-cell signaling and immune response genes. Hence, inhibition of HDAC3 can restore the enhancer histone acetylation and may serve as a targeted therapy for CREBBP-mutant lymphomas. Cancer Discov; 7(1); 38–53. ©2016 AACR.

See related commentary by Höpken, p. 14.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1
Changing the 30-min Rule in Canada: The Effect of Room Temperature on Bacterial Growth in Red Blood Cells
Authors: Ramirez-Arcos Sandra , Kou Yuntong , Ducas Éric , Thibault Louis
Published: October 2016

Background: To maintain product quality and safety, the ‘30-min rule' requires the discard of red blood cells (RBCs) that are exposed to uncontrolled temperatures for more than 30 min. Recent studies suggest this rule may safely be extended to a 60-min rule. Methods: A pool-and-split design study (N = 4) was run in parallel at Canadian Blood Services (SAGM RBCs) and Héma-Québec (AS-3 RBCs). RBCs were spiked with ∼1 colony-forming unit/ml of mesophilic and psychrophilic bacteria. Control units remained in storage at 1-6 °C for 42 days. Test 30 (T30) and T60 units were exposed to room temperature (RT) six times during storage, each time for 30 and 60 min, respectively. Bacterial proliferation was monitored. Results: Mesophilic bacteria do not proliferate in RBCs. The growth of psychrophilic bacteria is not significantly different in RBCs exposed for 30 or 60 min to RT (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The study findings were the final evidence to support extension from a 30-min rule to a 60-min rule in Canada.
Efficacy of prasugrel administration immediately after percutaneous coronary intervention in ST-elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Flierl Ulrike , Zauner Florian , Sieweke Jan-Thorben , Berliner Christine , Napp L. Christian , Tillmanns Jochen , Bauersachs Johann , Schäfer Andreas
Published: October 2016

Prasugrel, a potent thienopyridine, achieves stronger inhibition of platelet activation than clopidogrel. However, onset of inhibition is significantly delayed in patients with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), as haemodynamic instability and morphine application seem to exhibit significant influence. Since rapid onset of effect was demonstrated in non-STEMI patients when prasugrel was administered only after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) without increasing cardiovascular event rates we assessed the efficacy of prasugrel loading immediately after PCI for STEMI instead of pre-loading before revascu-larisation. We investigated 50 consecutive patients with acute STEMI (mean age 56 ± 10 years) admitted for primary PCI. Prasugrel efficacy was assessed by platelet reactivity index (PRI; VASP assay) before, 1, 2, 4, 6, 12, and 24 hours following an oral loading dose of 60 mg immediately after PCI. High on-treatment platelet reactivity (HTPR) was de-fined as PRI>50 %. Prasugrel significantly and rapidly reduced platelet reactivity in acute STEMI patients (p<0.0001 at each time point vs control). Morphine application resulted in a significantly higher HTPR rate among patients having received morphine less than 1 hour before pra-sugrel loading (p<0.001) while concomitant metoclopramide (MCP) treatment did not significantly affect prasugrel efficacy. In conclusion, in contrast to previous reports describing a significant delay in onset of prasugrel-mediated P2Y12 inhibition in acute STEMI, we observed a rapid onset with low HTPR rates comparable to those observed in stable non-STEMI patients. Prasugrel administered directly after primary PCI might therefore be a useful therapeutic strategy in patients with STEMI to provide strong and effective P2Y12 inhibition.
Mannheimiose atípica em emas (Rhea americana) cativas
Authors: Antunes João Marcelo Azevedo de Paula , Filgueira Kilder Dantas , Demoner Larissa De Castro , Batista Jael Soares , Oliveira Moacir Franco de , Guimarães Marta Brito , Oliveira Ilanna Vanessa Pristo de Medeiros , Freire Débora Alves de Carvalho , Paula Valéria Veras de
Published: October 2016

Mannheimia haemolytica (MH) é uma das principais causas da doença do complexo respiratório dos bovinos (DCRB) que causa grandes perdas econômicas. Até os dias atuais, não há relato de aves acometidas por tal bactéria. Relata-se um surto atípico de mannheimiose em emas em cativeiro (Rhea americana).
Serological and molecular investigation of viral agents in free-living jaguars of the Pantanal wetlands, state of Mato Grosso, Brazil
Authors: Onuma Selma Samiko Miyazaki , Chaves Luciana Botelho , Lara Maria do Carmo Custódio de Souza Hunold , May-Júnior Joares Adenilson , Taques Ísis Indaiara Gonçalves Granjeiro , Tomazifitzen Juliana Torres Tomazi , Alfieri Amauri Alcindo , Ometto Tatiana , Durigon Edison Luis , Araújo Jansen , Kantek Daniel Luis Zanella , Aguiar Daniel Moura
Published: October 2016

Este estudo investigou a exposição de onças-pintadas de vida livre a agentes virais selecionados em duas unidades de conservação federais no Pantanal de Mato Grosso, Brasil. Para a análise desses agentes virais, a maioria de caráter zoonótico, foram utilizados métodos sorológicos e moleculares. Nenhuma das onze onças-pintadas examinadas foi positiva na técnica de real-time RT-PCR para a detecção molecular dos agentes da Influenza aviária e Febre do Nilo Ocidental (WNF). Somente um animal foi positivo sorologicamente para a o vírus da Encefalite Equina do Leste (EEE) pela Microtécnica de vírus neutralização em culturas de células VERO, sendo este o primeiro relato da exposição de onças-pintadas. Todos os animais examinados s foram negativos para o vírus da Encefalite Equina do Oeste (WEE) e Venezuelana (VEE). Amostras de soro colhidas de 11 onças-pintadas foram submetidas a adois testes distintos para a detecção de anticorpos contra o vírus da raiva (Teste Rápido de Inibição de Foco de Fluorescência – RFFIT e Microteste Simplificado de Inibição da Fluorescência - SFIMT), resultando em cinco animais positivos, dos quase dois positivos para cada teste e um positivo quando submetido aos dois testes sorológicos. Além disso, três das 14 amostras submetidas a técnica de soroneutralização foram positivas para a pesquisa de anticorpos contra o vírus da cinomose (CDV) e 15 amostras positivas das 17 analisadas para a pesquisa de anticorpos contra o parvovírus canino (CPV) foram identificadas pela técnica de Inibição da Hemaglutinação (HI). De acordo com os resultados deste estudo, é pouco provável que os agentes virais aqui analisados representem ameaça à população de onças-pintadas nesta região.
Ramescência do arco aórtico no gambá-de-orelha-branca (Didelphis albiventris)
Authors: Schimming Bruno César , Jesus Luan Sabino Barroso Silva de , Filadelpho André Luis
Published: October 2016

O conhecimento do comportamento das artérias que emergem do arco aórtico é importante, pois estas artérias irrigam órgãos vitais encontrados na cabeça, pescoço, cavidade torácica e membros torácicos de animais domésticos e selvagens. Com o objetivo de contribuir com o conhecimento anatômico em gambás e colaborar com a clínica médica e cirúrgica de animais selvagens, descreveu-se neste estudo, a ramescência do arco aórtico em dezoito gambás. Os resultados indicaram que o tronco braquiocefálico e a artéria subclávia esquerda se originaram do arco aórtico em todos os animais estudados. Este padrão de ramescência do arco aórtico é similar ao descrito para a cobaia, chinchila, paca, mão-pelada, nutria, esquilo-vermelho e jaguatirica. O tronco braquiocefálico apresentou como ramos colaterais, a artéria subclávia direita e o tronco bicarotídeo, o qual se bifurcou nas artérias carótidas comuns direita e esquerda (77,7%). O tronco bicarotídeo não apareceu em quatro animais (22,2%). As artérias subclávias direita e esquerda originaram a artéria vertebral, o tronco costocervical e, as artérias torácica interna e cervical superficial. A ramescência encontrada nas artérias subclávias do gambá mostrou similaridades quando comparada com a descrita para outros animais selvagens como a paca, jaguatirica e o mocó.
Optimization and Reproducibility of Aortic Valve 18F-Fluoride Positron Emission Tomography in Patients With Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Pawade Tania A. , Cartlidge Timothy R.G. , Jenkins William S.A. , Adamson Philip D. , Robson Phillip , Lucatelli Christophe , Van Beek Edwin J.R. , Prendergast Bernard , Denison Alan R. , Forsyth Laura , Rudd James H.F. , Fayad Zahi A. , Fletcher Alison , Tuck Sharon , Newby David E. , Dweck Marc R.
Published: October 2016

Background—

18F-Fluoride positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT) can measure disease activity and progression in aortic stenosis. Our objectives were to optimize the methodology, analysis, and scan–rescan reproducibility of aortic valve 18F-fluoride PET-CT imaging.

Methods and Results—

Fifteen patients with aortic stenosis underwent repeated 18F-fluoride PET-CT. We compared nongated PET and noncontrast CT, with a modified approach that incorporated contrast CT and ECG-gated PET. We explored a range of image analysis techniques, including estimation of blood-pool activity at differing vascular sites and a most diseased segment approach. Contrast-enhanced ECG-gated PET-CT permitted localization of 18F-fluoride uptake to individual valve leaflets. Uptake was most commonly observed at sites of maximal mechanical stress: the leaflet tips and the commissures. Scan–rescan reproducibility was markedly improved using enhanced analysis techniques leading to a reduction in percentage error from ±63% to ±10% (tissue to background ratio MDS mean of 1.55, bias −0.05, limits of agreement −0·20 to +0·11).

Conclusions—

Optimized 18F-fluoride PET-CT allows reproducible localization of calcification activity to different regions of the aortic valve leaflet and commonly to areas of increased mechanical stress. This technique holds major promise in improving our understanding of the pathophysiology of aortic stenosis and as a biomarker end point in clinical trials of novel therapies.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT02132026.
Voter Volatility in Electoral Authoritarian Regimes: Testing the “Tragic Brilliance” Thesis
Authors: Golosov Grigorii V.
Published: October 2016

According to the “tragic brilliance” thesis advanced in the recent literature on electoral authoritarian regimes, such regimes retain their ability to to achieve electoral success even in the conditions when the national economy deteriorates. This study uses the data on voter volatility in 93 electoral authoritarian regimes and new democracies in order to validate the “tragic brilliance” thesis empirically. The analysis supports the “tragic brilliance” thesis. While in new democracies, a strong correlation between government economic performance and voter volatility can be observed, voter volatility in electoral authoritarian regimes is not facilitated by poor economic performance. Voter volatility declines if such regimes are able to achieve cooptation of sub-national elites without depriving them of substantial autonomy.
Taxonomic revision of Bromeliaceae subfam. Tillandsioideae based on a multi-locus DNA sequence phylogeny and morphology
Authors: BARFUSS MICHAEL H.J. , TILL WALTER , LEME ELTON M.C. , PINZÓN JUAN P. , MANZANARES JOSÉ M. , HALBRITTER HEIDEMARIE , SAMUEL ROSABELLE , BROWN GREGORY K.
Published: October 2016

A taxonomic revision of Bromeliaceae subfam. Tillandsioideae is presented based on a multi-locus DNA sequence phylogeny (viz., plastid DNA loci rpoB-trnC-petN, trnK-matK-trnK, and ycf1, and the nuclear DNA gene PHYC) and new or re-evaluated morphology (e.g., leaf, inflorescence, sepal, petal, ovary, stigma, stamen, pollen, ovule, and seed morphology). This enables the circumscription of monophyletic units using synapomorphic combinations of diagnostic morphological characters. Stigma morphology has proven to be indicative for super-specific taxa in Tillandsioideae. One new stigma type and several subtypes of previously described stigmas were found. The four tribes proposed earlier are mostly confirmed, but Catopsideae replaces the formerly used name Pogospermeae for the monotypic tribe of Catopsis. In addition, the two new subtribes Cipuropsidinae and Vrieseinae are proposed within tribe Vrieseeae. Several new genera are established to render taxonomic units monophyletic and morphologically well circumscribed. They represent segregates of either Mezobromelia (Gregbrownia: 4 spp.), Tillandsia (viz., Barfussia: 3 spp., Josemania: 5 spp., Lemeltonia: 7 spp., Pseudalcantarea: 3 spp., and Wallisia: 4 spp. and 1 hybrid), or Vriesea (viz., Goudaea: 2 spp., Jagrantia: 1 sp., Lutheria: 4 spp., Stigmatodon: 18 spp., and Zizkaea: 1 spp.). The new subgenera Tillandsia subg. Pseudovriesea and T. subg. Viridantha are established, and T. subg. Aerobia is resurrected. An identification key to all accepted genera of Bromeliaceae subfam. Tillandsioideae is provided. Furthermore, to clarify nomenclatural uncertainties, typifications are proposed for Catopsis subg. Tridynandra, Thecophyllum [unranked] Biflorae, Tillandsia subg. Aerobia, T. sect. Caricifoliae, T. sect. Conostachys, T. sect. Cyathophora, T. sect. Eriophyllum, T. sect. Macrocyathus, T. sect. Platystachys Baker auct. non al., Tillandsia sect. Strepsia, Vriesea subg. Conostachys Mez auct. non al., T. lindenii K. Koch auct. non al., and T. macropetala.
Redescriptions and lectotype designations for two neotropical Elminae (Coleoptera: Elmidae)
Authors: MONTE CINZIA , MASCAGNI ALESSANDRO
Published: October 2016

Two Elminae, Macrelmis germaini (Grouvelle, 1896) and Cylloepus reitteri Grouvelle, 1889 from Grouvelle’s Collection in the Museum National d’Histoire Naturelle, Paris are reviewed, and their lectotypes designated. Habitus photographs and illustrations of aedeagi for both species are also included.