bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Devonian magmatism in the accretionary complex of southern Chile
Authors: Hervé F. , Calderon M. , Fanning C. M. , Pankhurst R. J. , Fuentes F. , Rapela C. W. , Correa J. , Quezada P. , Marambio C.
Published: March 2016

Supposed or potential Devonian igneous rocks in the accretionary complex of southern Chile were investigated using sensitive high-resolution ion microprobe U–Pb dating of zircon, with Hf- and O-isotope analyses of selected grains. Ages of 384 ± 3 and 382 ± 2 Ma are confirmed for two igneous bodies (another having been previously dated at 397 ± 1 Ma). Detrital zircon ages in the host rocks, some associated with Devonian marine fossils, indicate maximum possible sedimentation ages of
c
. 330 – 385 Ma. Devonian ages of 391 ± 10 and 374 ± 3 Ma for plutonic rocks at the western edge of the North Patagonian Massif are somewhat older than those of orthogneisses in the western flank of the Andes near Chaitén (361 ± 7 and 364 ± 2 Ma). O and Hf isotopes indicate that the Devonian intrusions in the accretionary complex crystallized from mantle-derived magmas, whereas those in the North Patagonian Massif show a strong crustal influence, corresponding to oceanic and continental margin subduction environments of magma genesis, respectively. Devonian zircon provenance in the accretionary complex was from the North Patagonian Massif and not from the mantle-derived intrusions, suggesting that the accretionary complex formed an integral part of the Gondwana margin during Devonian–Carboniferous times.

Supplementary material:
Description of analytical methods and tables of isotope analytical data are available at
http://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.2336728
.
The missing piece of the South Atlantic jigsaw: when continental break-up ignores crustal heterogeneity
Authors: Paton D. A. , Mortimer E. J. , Hodgson N. , van der Spuy D.
Published: March 2016

Crustal heterogeneity is considered to play a critical role in the position of continental break-up, yet this can only be demonstrated when a fully constrained pre-break-up configuration of both conjugate margins is achievable. Limitations in our understanding of the pre-break-up crustal structure in the offshore region of many margins preclude this. In the southern South Atlantic, which is an archetypal conjugate margin, this can be achieved because of the high confidence in plate reconstruction. Prior to addressing the role of crustal heterogeneity, two questions have to be addressed: first, what is the location of the regionally extensive Gondwanan Orogeny that remains enigmatic in the Orange Basin, offshore South Africa; and, second, although it has been established that the Argentinian Colorado rift basin has an east–west trend perpendicular to the Orange Basin and Atlantic spreading, where is the western continuation of this east–west trend? We present here a revised structural model for the southern South Atlantic by identifying the South African fold belt offshore. The fold belt trend changes from north–south to east–west offshore and correlates directly with the restored Colorado Basin. The Colorado–Orange rifts form a tripartite system with the Namibian Gariep Belt, which we call the Garies Triple Junction. All three rift branches were active during the break-up of Gondwana, but during the Atlantic rift phase the Colorado Basin failed while the other two branches continued to rift, defining the present day location of the South Atlantic. In addressing these two outstanding questions, this study challenges the premise that crustal heterogeneity controls the position of continental break-up because seafloor spreading demonstrably cross-cuts the pre-existing crustal heterogeneity. Furthermore, we highlight the importance of differentiating between early rift evolution and subsequent rifting that occurs immediately prior to seafloor spreading.
Hyperaldosteronism after decreased renal K+excretion in KCNMB2 knockout mice
Authors: Larsen Casper K. , Jensen Iben S. , Sorensen Mads V. , de Bruijn Pauline I. , Bleich Markus , Praetorius Helle A. , Leipziger Jens
Published: March 2016

The kidney is the primary organ ensuring K+homeostasis. K+is secreted into the urine in the distal tubule by two mechanisms: by the renal outer medullary K+channel (Kir1.1) and by the Ca2+-activated K+channel (KCa1.1). Here, we report a novel knockout mouse of the β2-subunit of the KCa1.1 channel (KCNMB2), which displays hyperaldosteronism after decreased renal K+excretion. KCNMB2−/−mice displayed hyperaldosteronism, normal plasma K+concentration, and produced dilute urine with decreased K+concentration. The normokalemia indicated that hyperaldosteronism did not result from primary aldosteronism. Activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system was also ruled out as renal renin mRNA expression was reduced in KCNMB2−/−mice. Renal K+excretion rates were similar in the two genotypes; however, KCNMB2−/−mice required elevated plasma aldosterone to achieve K+balance. Blockade of the mineralocorticoid receptor with eplerenone triggered mild hyperkalemia and unmasked reduced renal K+excretion in KCNMB2−/−mice. Knockout mice for the α-subunit of the KCa1.1 channel (KCNMA1−/−mice) have hyperaldosteronism, are hypertensive, and lack flow-induced K+secretion. KCNMB2−/−mice share the phenotypic traits of normokalemia and hyperaldosteronism with KCNMA1−/−mice but were normotensive and displayed intact flow-induced K+secretion. Despite elevated plasma aldosterone, KNCMB2−/−mice did not display salt-sensitive hypertension and were able to decrease plasma aldosterone on a high-Na+diet, although plasma aldosterone remained elevated in KCNMB2−/−mice. In summary, KCNMB2−/−mice have a reduced ability to excrete K+into the urine but achieve K+balance through an aldosterone-mediated, β2-independent mechanism. The phenotype of KCNMB2 mice was similar but milder than the phenotype of KCNMA1−/−mice.
Bridging translation for acute kidney injury with better preclinical modeling of human disease
Authors: Skrypnyk Nataliya I. , Siskind Leah J. , Faubel Sarah , de Caestecker Mark P.
Published: March 2016

The current lack of effective therapeutics for patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) represents an important and unmet medical need. Given the importance of the clinical problem, it is time for us to take a few steps back and reexamine current practices. The focus of this review is to explore the extent to which failure of therapeutic translation from animal studies to human studies stems from deficiencies in the preclinical models of AKI. We will evaluate whether the preclinical models of AKI that are commonly used recapitulate the known pathophysiologies of AKI that are being modeled in humans, focusing on four common scenarios that are studied in clinical therapeutic intervention trials: cardiac surgery-induced AKI; contrast-induced AKI; cisplatin-induced AKI; and sepsis associated AKI. Based on our observations, we have identified a number of common limitations in current preclinical modeling of AKI that could be addressed. In the long term, we suggest that progress in developing better preclinical models of AKI will depend on developing a better understanding of human AKI. To this this end, we suggest that there is a need to develop greater in-depth molecular analyses of kidney biopsy tissues coupled with improved clinical and molecular classification of patients with AKI.
Motor control differs for increasing and releasing force
Authors: Park Seoung Hoon , Kwon MinHyuk , Solis Danielle , Lodha Neha , Christou Evangelos A.
Published: March 2016

Control of the motor output depends on our ability to precisely increase and release force. However, the influence of aging on force increase and release remains unknown. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to determine whether force control differs while increasing and releasing force in young and older adults. Sixteen young adults (22.5 ± 4 yr, 8 females) and 16 older adults (75.7 ± 6.4 yr, 8 females) increased and released force at a constant rate (10% maximum voluntary contraction force/s) during an ankle dorsiflexion isometric task. We recorded the force output and multiple motor unit activity from the tibialis anterior (TA) muscle and quantified the following outcomes: 1) variability of force using the SD of force; 2) mean discharge rate and variability of discharge rate of multiple motor units; and 3) power spectrum of the multiple motor units from 0–4, 4–10, 10–35, and 35–60 Hz. Participants exhibited greater force variability while releasing force, independent of age ( P < 0.001). Increased force variability during force release was associated with decreased modulation of multiple motor units from 35 to 60 Hz ( R2= 0.38). Modulation of multiple motor units from 35 to 60 Hz was further correlated to the change in mean discharge rate of multiple motor units ( r = 0.66) and modulation from 0 to 4 Hz ( r = −0.64). In conclusion, these findings suggest that force control is altered while releasing due to an altered modulation of the motor units.
Chaotic Convection in a Viscoelastic Fluid Saturated Porous Medium with a Heat Source
Authors: Bhadauria B. S.
Published: March 2016

Chaotic convection in a viscoelastic fluid saturated porous layer, heated from below, is studied by using Oldroyd’s type constituting relation and in the presence of an internal heat source. A modified Darcy law is used in the momentum equation, and a heat source term has been considered in energy equation. An autonomous system of fourth-order differential equations has been deduced by using a truncated Fourier series. Effect of internal heat generation on chaotic convection has been investigated. The asymptotic behavior can be stationary, periodic, or chaotic, depending upon the flow parameters. Construction of four-scroll, or “two-butterfly,” and chaotic attractor has been examined.
Comparison of ​horace and ​photos Algorithms for Multiphoton Emission in the Context ofWBoson Mass Measurement
Authors: Kotwal Ashutosh V. , Jayatilaka Bodhitha
Published: March 2016

Wboson mass measurement is sensitive to QED radiative corrections due to virtual photon loops and real photon emission. The largest shift in the measured mass, which depends on the transverse momentum spectrum of the charged lepton from the boson decay, is caused by the emission of real photons from the final-state lepton. There are a number of calculations and codes available to model the final-state photon emission. We perform a detailed study, comparing the results fromhoraceandphotosimplementations of the final-state multiphoton emission in the context of a direct measurement ofWboson mass at Tevatron. Mass fits are performed using a simulation of the CDF II detector.
A Case of Primary Hypoparathyroidism Presenting with Acute Kidney Injury Secondary to Rhabdomyolysis
Authors: Sumnu Abdullah , Aydin Zeki , Gursu Meltem , Uzun Sami , Karadag Serhat , Cebeci Egemen , Ozturk Savas , Kazancioglu Rumeyza
Published: March 2016

Hypoparathyroidism is the most common cause of symmetric calcification of the basal ganglia. Herein, a case of primary hypoparathyroidism with severe tetany, rhabdomyolysis, and acute kidney injury is presented. A 26-year-old male was admitted to the emergency clinic with leg pain and cramps, nausea, vomiting, and decreased amount of urine. He had been treated for epilepsy for the last 10 years. He was admitted to the emergency department for leg pain, cramping in the hands and legs, and agitation multiple times within the last six months. He was prescribed antidepressant and antipsychotic medications. He had a blood pressure of 150/90 mmHg, diffuse abdominal tenderness, and abdominal muscle rigidity on physical examination. Pathological laboratory findings were as follows: creatinine, 7.5 mg/dL, calcium, 3.7 mg/dL, alanine transaminase, 4349 U/L, aspartate transaminase, 5237 U/L, creatine phosphokinase, 262.000 U/L, and parathyroid hormone, 0 pg/mL. There were bilateral symmetrical calcifications in basal ganglia and the cerebellum on computerized tomography. He was diagnosed as primary hypoparathyroidism and acute kidney injury secondary to severe rhabdomyolysis. Brain calcifications, although rare, should be considered in dealing with patients with neurological symptoms, symmetrical cranial calcifications, and calcium metabolism abnormalities.
Rotation Modes Stability Analysis and Phase Compensation for Magnetically Suspended Flywheel Systems with Cross Feedback Controller and Time Delay
Authors: Ren Yuan , Chen Xiaocen , Cai Yuanwen , Wang Weijie
Published: March 2016

This paper analyzes the effects of time delay on the stability of the rotation modes for the magnetically suspended flywheel (MSFW) with strong gyroscopic effects. A multi-input multioutput system is converted into a single-input single-output control system with complex coefficient by variable reconstruction, and the stability equivalence of the systems before and after variable reconstruction is proven. For the rotation modes, the stability limits and corresponding vibration frequencies are found as a function of nondimensional magnetic stiffness and damping and nondimensional parameters of rotor speed and time delay. Additionally, the relationship between cross feedback control system stability and time delay is investigated. And an effective phase compensation method based on cross-channel is further presented. Simulation and experimental results are presented to demonstrate the correctness of the stability analysis method and the superiority of the phase compensation strategy.
The Dual Function of Reactive Oxygen/Nitrogen Species in Bioenergetics and Cell Death: The Role of ATP Synthase
Authors: Kaludercic Nina , Giorgio Valentina
Published: March 2016

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) targeting mitochondria are major causative factors in disease pathogenesis. The mitochondrial permeability transition pore (PTP) is a mega‐channel modulated by calcium and ROS/RNS modifications and it has been described to play a crucial role in many pathophysiological events since prolonged channel opening causes cell death. The recent identification that dimers of ATP synthase form the PTP and the fact that posttranslational modifications caused by ROS/RNS also affect cellular bioenergetics through the modulation of ATP synthase catalysis reveal a dual function of these modifications in the cells. Here, we describe mitochondria as a major site of production and as a target of ROS/RNS and discuss the pathophysiological conditions in which oxidative and nitrosative modifications modulate the catalytic and pore‐forming activities of ATP synthase.
Morphology Controlled Synthesis ofα-GaO(OH) Nanoparticles: Thermal Conversion to Ga2O3and Photocatalytic Properties
Authors: Dulda Ayse
Published: March 2016

Morphology controlledα-GaO(OH) particles have been synthesized via precipitation method which allows the tuning of relative growth rates of crystal facets. The effects of alkali addition rate and the type of alkali on the growth rates of the crystal facets during hydrolysis were also investigated. XRD and TG analysis confirmed that there was a phase transition from GaO(OH) to Ga2O3when precursor sample was calcined to 750°C. The single phaseα-Ga2O3was obtained after thermal treatment of NaOH precipitated precursor, whileβ-Ga2O3was formed when the urea or NH4OH precipitated precursor was calcinated. Furthermore, the thermal, spectral, and photocatalytic properties connected to the crystal structure and morphology were discussed.
Catalytic Synthesis of Substrate-Free, Aligned and Tailored High Aspect Ratio Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes in an Ultrasonic Atomization Head CVD Reactor
Authors: Rabbani Fahad Ali , Malaibari Zuhair Omar , Atieh Muataz Ali , Jamie Ammar
Published: March 2016

Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method has proven its benchmark, over other methods, for the production of different types of carbon nanotubes (CNT) on commercial and lab scale. In this study, an injection vertical CVD reactor fitted with an ultrasonic atomization head was used in a pilot-plant scale (height 274 cm, radius 25 cm) for semicontinuous production of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). p-Xylene was used as a hydrocarbon precursor in which ferrocene was dissolved and provided the cracking catalyst. Atomization of the feed solution resulted in full and even dispersion of the catalytic solution. This dispersion led to the production of high aspect ratio MWCNTs (ranging from 8,000 to 12,000) at 850°C. Different experimental parameters affecting the quality and quantity of the produced CNTs were investigated. These included temperature, reaction time, and flow rate of the reaction and carrier gases. Different properties of the produced CNTs were characterized using SEM and TEM, while TGA was used to evaluate their purity. Specific surface area of selected samples was calculated by BET.
Using GIS-Based Tools for the Optimization of Solid Waste Collection and Transport: Case Study of Sfax City, Tunisia
Authors: Kallel Amjad , Serbaji Mohamed Moncef , Zairi Moncef
Published: March 2016

Expenditure for waste collection and transport in Tunisia constitutes 75–100% of the total solid waste management budget. In this study, optimized scenarios were developed using ArcGIS Network Analyst tool in order to improve the efficiency of waste collection and transportation in the district Cité El Habib of Sfax city, Tunisia. Geographic Information System (GIS) was created based on data collection and GPS tracking (collection route/bins position). The actual state (Scenario S0) was evaluated, and by modifying its particular parameters, other scenarios were generated and analyzed to identify optimal routes: S1, route optimized with the same working resources (change of stops sequencing only); S2, route optimized with change of vehicles; and S3, route optimized with change of collection method (vehicles and reallocation of bins). The results showed that the three scenarios guarantee savings compared to S0 in terms of collection time (14%, 57%, and 57% for S1, S2, and S3, resp.) and distance (13.5%, 13.5%, and 40.5% for S1, S2, and S3, resp.). Thus, a direct impact on fuel consumption can be expected with savings of 16%, 20%, and 48% for S1, S2, and S3, respectively, without mentioning the additional benefits related to CO2emissions, hours of work, vehicles wear/maintenance, and so forth.
Metabolism and Metabolic Inhibition of Xanthotoxol in Human Liver Microsomes
Authors: Ma Zhongnv , Shi Xianbao , Zhang Gang , Guo Feng , Shan Lina , Cai Jiqun
Published: March 2016

Cytochrome p450 (CYP450) enzymes are predominantly involved in Phase I metabolism of xenobiotics. In this study, the CYP450 isoforms involved in xanthotoxol metabolism were identified using recombinant CYP450s. In addition, the inhibitory effects of xanthotoxol on eight CYP450 isoforms and its pharmacokinetic parameters were determined using human liver microsomes. CYP1A2, one of CYP450s, played a key role in the metabolism of xanthotoxol compared to other CYP450s. Xanthotoxol showed stronger inhibition on CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 compared to other isoenzymes with the IC50 of 7.43 μM for CYP3A4 and 27.82 μM for CYP1A2. The values of inhibition kinetic parameters (Ki) were 21.15 μM and 2.22 μM for CYP1A2 and CYP3A4, respectively. The metabolism of xanthotoxol obeyed the typical monophasic Michaelis‐Menten kinetics and Vmax, Km, and CLint values were calculated as 0.55 nmol·min−1·mg−1, 8.46 μM, and 0.06 mL·min−1·mg−1. In addition, the results of molecular docking showed that xanthotoxol was bound to CYP1A2 with hydrophobic and π‐π bond and CYP3A4 with hydrogen and hydrophobic bond. We predicted the hepatic clearance (CLH) and the CLH value was 15.91 mL·min−1·kg−1 body weight. These data were significant for the application of xanthotoxol and xanthotoxol‐containing herbs.
Design Optimization of a Mecanum Wheel to Reduce Vertical Vibrations by the Consideration of Equivalent Stiffness
Authors: Bae Jong-Jin , Kang Namcheol
Published: March 2016

Mecanum wheels are capable of moving a vehicle to any direction instantaneously by the combination of independent wheel rotations. Because the mecanum wheel is composed of a hub and rollers, however, it has unavoidable drawbacks such as vertical and horizontal vibrations due to the sequential contacts between rollers and ground. In order to investigate the dynamic characteristics of a mecanum wheel, we made a prototype and performed experiments to measure the vertical vibrations. Interestingly, it was observed that the vertical accelerations were asymmetric with respect to the average value of signals; the vibration signals of upward and downward directions show quite different shape. This asymmetric phenomenon was confirmed through the dynamic simulations performed by RecurDyn. In addition, the peak-to-peak and RMS values of the displacements and accelerations were calculated to investigate the effects of the curvature of rollers on the vertical vibrations of the vehicle. Furthermore, we proposed a mecanum wheel having a spring to attenuate the vibrations. It was also noted that the significant reduction of the vertical accelerations was observed due to the absence of the spring. Finally, considering the equivalent stiffness of the mecanum wheel for several different fillet radii, we found the optimal geometric design which minimizes the vertical vibration of a mecanum wheel.
Chronic Stress and Glucocorticoids: From Neuronal Plasticity to Neurodegeneration
Authors: Vyas Sheela , Rodrigues Ana João , Silva Joana Margarida , Tronche Francois , Almeida Osborne F. X. , Sousa Nuno , Sotiropoulos Ioannis
Published: March 2016

Stress and stress hormones, glucocorticoids (GCs), exert widespread actions in central nervous system, ranging from the regulation of gene transcription, cellular signaling, modulation of synaptic structure, and transmission and glial function to behavior. Their actions are mediated by glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors which are nuclear receptors/transcription factors. While GCs primarily act to maintain homeostasis by inducing physiological and behavioral adaptation, prolonged exposure to stress and elevated GC levels may result in neuro- and psychopathology. There is now ample evidence for cause-effect relationships between prolonged stress, elevated GC levels, and cognitive and mood disorders while the evidence for a link between chronic stress/GC and neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s (AD) and Parkinson’s (PD) diseases is growing. This brief review considers some of the cellular mechanisms through which stress and GC may contribute to the pathogenesis of AD and PD.
Finite Element Modeling of Compressive and Splitting Tensile Behavior of Plain Concrete and Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete Cylinder Specimens
Authors: Chowdhury Md. Arman , Islam Md. Mashfiqul , Ibna Zahid Zubayer
Published: March 2016

Plain concrete and steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC) cylinder specimens are modeled in the finite element (FE) platform of ANSYS 10.0 and validated with the experimental results and failure patterns. Experimental investigations are conducted to study the increase in compressive and tensile capacity of cylindrical specimens made of stone and brick concrete and SFRC. Satisfactory compressive and tensile capacity improvement is observed by adding steel fibers of 1.5% volumetric ratio. A total of 8 numbers of cylinder specimens are cast and tested in 1000 kN capacity digital universal testing machine (UTM) and also modeled in ANSYS. The enhancement of compressive strength and splitting tensile strength of SFRC specimen is achieved up to 17% and 146%, respectively, compared to respective plain concrete specimen. Results gathered from finite element analyses are validated with the experimental test results by identifying as well as optimizing the controlling parameters to make FE models. Modulus of elasticity, Poisson’s ratio, stress-strain behavior, tensile strength, density, and shear transfer coefficients for open and closed cracks are found to be the main governing parameters for successful model of plain concrete and SFRC in FE platform. After proper evaluation and logical optimization of these parameters by extensive analyses, finite element (FE) models showed a good correlation with the experimental results.
Spindle Oscillations in Sleep Disorders: A Systematic Review
Authors: Weiner Oren M. , Dang-Vu Thien Thanh
Published: March 2016

Measurement of sleep microarchitecture and neural oscillations is an increasingly popular technique for quantifying EEG sleep activity. Many studies have examined sleep spindle oscillations in sleep-disordered adults; however reviews of this literature are scarce. As such, our overarching aim was to critically review experimental studies examining sleep spindle activity between adults with and without different sleep disorders. Articles were obtained using a systematic methodology witha prioricriteria. Thirty-seven studies meeting final inclusion criteria were reviewed, with studies grouped across three categories: insomnia, hypersomnias, and sleep-related movement disorders (including parasomnias). Studies of patients with insomnia and sleep-disordered breathing were more abundant relative to other diagnoses. All studies were cross-sectional. Studies were largely inconsistent regarding spindle activity differences between clinical and nonclinical groups, with some reporting greater or less activity, while many others reported no group differences. Stark inconsistencies in sample characteristics (e.g., age range and diagnostic criteria) and methods of analysis (e.g., spindle bandwidth selection, visual detection versus digital filtering, absolute versus relative spectral power, and NREM2 versus NREM3) suggest a need for greater use of event-based detection methods and increased research standardization. Hypotheses regarding the clinical and empirical implications of these findings, and suggestions for potential future studies, are also discussed.
HPV Infection and Prognostic Factors of Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Different Ethnic Groups from Geographically Closed Cohort in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Zhang Hua , Zhang Yang , Zhao Huarong , Niyaz Huerxidan , Liu Pan , Zhang Lei , Zhang Songan , Reheman Yiming , Bao Yongxing , Chen Xinhua
Published: March 2016

Background.The effect of HPV infection status and ethnic differences on the prognosis of tongue squamous cell carcinoma in Xinjiang presents an interesting set of conditions that has yet to be studied.Methods.A comprehensive analysis of clinical data was undertaken for a cohort consisting of 63 patients with tongue squamous cell carcinoma recruited from three ethnic groups in Xinjiang. PCR was used for the detection of HPV16 and HPV18 infections. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used for analyzing survival outcome in addition to the assessment of other prognostic factors.Results.The overall infection rate for HPV was 28.6% (18/63); the 5-year survival rate among the HPV-positive patients was 47.8% and 30.3% for HPV-negative patients. The survival rate for HPV-positive patients who received radiotherapy and chemotherapy was better than for those who did not receive radiotherapy and chemotherapy. N staging and HPV infection were found to be two independent and significant prognostic factors.Conclusion.HPV-positive patients with tongue squamous cell carcinoma are more sensitive to chemotherapy. Higher N staging indicates poor prognosis.
Analysis of Single-Server Queue with Phase-Type Service and Energy Harvesting
Authors: Dudin Sergey A. , Lee Moon Ho
Published: March 2016

We propose a queueing model suitable, for example, for modelling operation of nodes of sensor networks. The sensor node senses a random field and generates packets to be transmitted to the central node. The sensor node has a battery of a finite capacity and harvests energy during its operation from outside (using solar cells, wind turbines, piezoelectric cells, etc.). We assume that, generally speaking, service (transmission) of a packet consists of a random number of phases and implementation of each phase requires a unit of energy. If the battery becomes empty, transmission is failed. To reduce the probability of forced transmission termination, we suggest that the packet can be accepted for transmission only when the number of energy units is greater than or equal to some threshold. Under quite general assumptions about the pattern of the arrival processes of packets and energy, we compute the stationary distributions of the system states and the waiting time of a packet in the system and numerically analyze performance measures of the system as functions of the threshold. Validity of Little’s formula and its counterpart is verified.
Serological Survey of Hantavirus in Inhabitants from Tropical and Subtropical Areas of Brazil
Authors: Alves Morais Felipe , Pereira Alexandre , Santo Pietro Pereira Aparecida , Lazaro Moreli Marcos , Marcelo Aranha Camargo Luís , Schiavo Nardi Marcello , Farah Tófoli Cristina , Araujo Jansen , Mara Dutra Lilia , Lopes Ometto Tatiana , Hurtado Renata , Carmona de Jesus Maués Fábio , Zingano Hinke Tiene , Jaber Mahmud Sati , Correia Lima Monica , Tadeu Moraes Figueiredo Luiz , Luiz Durigon Edison
Published: March 2016

Brazil has reported more than 1,600 cases of hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HPS) since 1993, with a 39% rate of reported fatalities. Using a recombinant nucleocapsid protein ofAraraquaravirus, we performed ELISA to detect IgG antibodies against hantavirus in human sera. The aim of this study was to analyze hantavirus antibody levels in inhabitants from a tropical area (Amazon region) in Rondônia state and a subtropical (Atlantic Rain Forest) region in São Paulo state, Brazil. A total of 1,310 serum samples were obtained between 2003 and 2008 and tested by IgG-ELISA, and 82 samples (6.2%), of which 62 were from the tropical area (5.8%) and 20 from the subtropical area (8.3%), tested positive. Higher levels of hantavirus antibody were observed in inhabitants of the populous subtropical areas compared with those from the tropical areas in Brazil.
A Bayesian Network-Based Probabilistic Framework for Drought Forecasting and Outlook
Authors: Shin Ji Yae , Ajmal Muhammad , Yoo Jiyoung , Kim Tae-Woong
Published: March 2016

Reliable drought forecasting is necessary to develop mitigation plans to cope with severe drought. This study developed a probabilistic scheme for drought forecasting and outlook combined with quantification of the prediction uncertainties. The Bayesian network was mainly employed as a statistical scheme for probabilistic forecasting that can represent the cause-effect relationships between the variables. The structure of the Bayesian network-based drought forecasting (BNDF) model was designed using the past, current, and forecasted drought condition. In this study, the drought conditions were represented by the standardized precipitation index (SPI). The accuracy of forecasted SPIs was assessed by comparing the observed SPIs and confidence intervals (CIs), exhibiting the associated uncertainty. Then, this study suggested the drought outlook framework based on probabilistic drought forecasting results. The overall results provided sufficient agreement between the observed and forecasted drought conditions in the outlook framework.
PD-L1 Negative Status is Associated with Lower Mutation Burden, Differential Expression of Immune-Related Genes, and Worse Survival in Stage III Melanoma
Authors: Madore Jason , Strbenac Dario , Vilain Ricardo , Menzies Alexander M. , Yang Jeen Y. H. , Thompson John F. , Long Georgina V. , Mann Graham J. , Scolyer Richard A. , Wilmott James S.
Published: March 2016

Purpose: Understanding why some melanomas test negative for PD-L1 by IHC may have implications for the application of anti-PD-1 therapies in melanoma management. This study sought to determine somatic mutation and gene expression patterns associated with tumor cell PD-L1 expression, or lack thereof, in stage III metastatic melanoma to better define therapeutically relevant patient subgroups.

Experimental Design: IHC for PD-L1 was assessed in 52 American Joint Committee on Cancer stage III melanoma lymph node specimens and compared with specimen-matched comprehensive clinicopathologic, genomic, and transcriptomic data.

Results: PD-L1–negative status was associated with lower nonsynonymous mutation (NSM) burden (P = 0.017) and worse melanoma-specific survival [HR = 0.28 (0.12–0.66), P = 0.002] in stage III melanoma. Gene set enrichment analysis identified an immune-related gene expression signature in PD-L1–positive tumors. There was a marked increase in cytotoxic T-cell and macrophage-specific genes in PD-L1–positive melanomas. CD8Ahigh gene expression was associated with better melanoma-specific survival [HR = 0.2 (0.05–0.87), P = 0.017] and restricted to PD-L1–positive stage III specimens. NF1 mutations were restricted to PD-L1–positive tumors (P = 0.041).

Conclusions: Tumor negative PD-L1 status in stage III melanoma lymph node metastasis is a marker of worse patient survival and is associated with a poor immune response gene signature. Lower NSM levels were associated with PD-L1–negative status suggesting differences in somatic mutation profiles are a determinant of PD-L1–associated antitumor immunity in stage III melanoma. Clin Cancer Res; 22(15); 3915–23. ©2016 AACR.
Obstetric Admissions to the Intensive Care Unit in a Tertiary Hospital
Authors: De Greve Morgan , Van Mieghem Tim , Van Den Berghe Greet , Hanssens Myriam
Published: March 2016

Aims: A better understanding of the characteristics of obstetric patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) could guide where the focus of obstetric training and awareness should be directed at to reduce further maternal mortality and morbidity. Methods: We retrospectively assessed the charts of all women admitted during pregnancy or postpartum to a tertiary ICU over a 12-year period. We retrieved whether women were followed locally or referred from another hospital and whether the ICU admission was prophylactic or therapeutic. Results: There were 190 admissions in 183 women. One-hundred and four admissions were in referred women and 86 in women cared for locally. Seventy-eight admissions (41.1%) were for direct obstetric causes (primarily postpartum hemorrhage (n = 14), hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (n = 12) and peripartum cardiomyopathy (n = 10)). Indirect obstetric admissions (n = 89; 46.8%) were primarily for cardiopathies (n = 35) and pulmonary diseases (n = 18). Among non-obstetric admissions, trauma (n = 6; 26.1%) and neurologic tumors (n = 6; 26.1%) were the most common. Conclusion: Pre-existing and acquired cardiopathies are the main reason for admission to an ICU in a developed country and have surpassed hypertensive disorders and hemorrhage. This should become a focus of obstetric care provider training.
Optogenetic Inhibition of the Subthalamic Nucleus Reduces Levodopa-Induced Dyskinesias in a Rat Model of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Yoon Hyung Ho , Min Joongkee , Hwang Eunmi , Lee C. Justin , Suh Jun-Kyo Francis , Hwang Onyou , Jeon Sang Ryong
Published: March 2016

Background: The inhibition of neuronal activity by electrical deep brain stimulation is one of the mechanisms explaining the amelioration of levodopa-induced dyskinesia. However, electrical deep brain stimulation cannot specifically activate or inactivate selected types of neurons. Objectives: We applied optogenetics as an alternative treatment to deep brain stimulation for levodopa-induced dyskinesia, and also to confirm that the mechanism of levodopa-induced dyskinesia amelioration by subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation is mediated through neuronal inhibition. Methods: 6-hydroxydopamine-induced hemiparkinsonian rats received injections of hSynapsin1-NpHR-YFP adeno-associated virus (AAV) or hSynapsin1-YFP AAV. Two weeks after viral injections, all rats were treated with daily injections of levodopa. Then, the optic fiber was implanted into the ipsilateral subthalamic nucleus. We performed various behavioral tests to evaluate the changes in levodopa-induced dyskinesias after optogenetic expression and illumination in the subthalamic nucleus. Results: The behavioral tests revealed that optical inhibition of the subthalamic nucleus significantly ameliorated levodopa-induced dyskinesia by reducing the duration of the dyskinesias as well as the severity of axial dyskinesia. Conclusions: These findings will provide a useful foundation for the future development of optogenetic modulation systems that could be considered as an approach to dyskinesia therapy.
Inhibition of Sonic Hedgehog Signaling Pathway by Thiazole Antibiotic Thiostrepton Attenuates the CD44+/CD24-Stem-Like Population and Sphere-Forming Capacity in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Yang Na , Zhou Tai-Cheng , Lei Xiu-xia , Wang Chang , Yan Min , Wang Zi-Feng , Liu Wei , Wang Jian , Ming Kai-Hua , Wang Bi-Cheng , Xu Bang-Lao , Liu Quentin
Published: March 2016

Background/Aim: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents a particular clinical challenge because these cancers do not respond to endocrine therapy or other available targeted agents. The lack of effective agents and obvious targets are major challenges in treating TNBC. In this study we explored the cytostatic effect of thiazole ring containing antibiotic drug thiostrepton on TNBC cell lines and investigated the molecular mechanism. Methods: Cell viability was measured by MTT assay. Cell surface marker was monitored by FCM. Western blot was applied to assess the protein expression levels of target genes. Results: We found that thiostrepton remarkably suppressed the CD44+/CD24- stem-like population and sphere forming capacity of TNBC cell lines. Notably, we showed for the first time that thiostrepton exerted its pharmacological action by targeting sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway. Thiostrepton repressed SHH ligand expression and reduced Gli-1 nuclear localization in TNBC cell line. Furthermore, the downstream target of SHH signaling undergone dose-dependent, rapid, and sustained loss of mRNA transcript level after thiostrepton treatment. Finally, we showed that SHH ligand was essential for maintaining CD44+/CD24- stem-like population in TNBC cell line. Conclusion: We conclude that thiostrepton suppresses the CD44+/CD24- stem-like population through inhibition of SHH signaling pathway. Our results give a new insight into the mechanism of thiostrepton anti-tumor activity and suggest thiostrepton as a promising agent that targets hedgehog signaling pathway in TNBC.
Long-Term Effects of Individually Tailored Physical Training and Activity on Physical Function, Well-Being and Cognition in Scandinavian Nursing Home Residents: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Frändin Kerstin , Grönstedt Helena , Helbostad Jorunn L. , Bergland Astrid , Andresen Mette , Puggaard Lis , Harms-Ringdahl Karin , Granbo Randi , Hellström Karin
Published: March 2016

Background: The preservation of physical functions such as muscle strength, balance and mobility is fundamental to maintaining independence in activities of daily living (ADL). The physical activity level of most nursing home residents is very low, which implies that they are often subject to a decline in health, mobility, autonomy and social contacts and are also at risk of suffering a decline in mental well-being. In a previous study, we demonstrated that transfers, balance and physical activity level improved after 3 months of individually tailored intervention in nursing home residents. Objective: To evaluate the long-term effects on ADL, balance function, physical activity level, physical performance, falls-related self-efficacy, well-being and cognitive function 3 months after the completion of our intervention in nursing home residents. Methods: The study was a multicenter randomized, controlled clinical trial with a parallel-group design. It was conducted in nursing homes in Sweden, Norway and Denmark, with an intervention period lasting 3 months and a follow-up at 6 months. Initially, 322 nursing home residents with a mean age of 85 years were included; 85 from Sweden, 171 from Norway and 66 from Denmark. Of these, 241 [129 intervention group (IG), 112 control group (CG)] were eligible for the 6-month follow-up tests. The level of dependence in ADL, physical activity level, several dimensions of physical function, well-being, falls-related self-efficacy and cognitive function were assessed with reliable and valid instruments at baseline, immediately after 3 months of intervention and 3 months later at the 6-month follow-up. Results: After 3 months of intervention and an additional period of 3 months without intervention, only the following 2 variables demonstrated significant group differences: social and cognitive function, measured by the Functional Independence Measure n-r, where the IG deteriorated while the CG was almost stable. However, regarding transfers, the IG deteriorated significantly less than the CG. Conclusion: Without supervised physical exercise that challenged the individuals' capability, gains in ADL function, balance and transfer ability deteriorated during the 3 months following the intervention period. Thus, continuous, individually adjusted and supported physical activity seems crucial for the maintenance of physical functions in these vulnerable elderly persons.
The Economics of Cognitive Impairment: Volunteering and Cognitive Function in the HILDA Survey
Authors: Hosking Diane E. , Anstey Kaarin J.
Published: March 2016

Background: The economic impact of older-age cognitive impairment has been estimated primarily by the direct and indirect costs associated with dementia care. Other potential costs associated with milder cognitive impairment in the community have received little attention. Objective: To quantify the cost of nonclinical cognitive impairment in a large population-based sample in order to more fully inform cost-effectiveness evaluations of interventions to maintain cognitive health. Methods: Volunteering by seniors has economic value but those with lower cognitive function may contribute fewer hours. Relations between hours volunteering and cognitive impairment were assessed using the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey data. These findings were extrapolated to the Australian population to estimate one potential cost attributable to nonclinical cognitive impairment. Results: In those aged ≥60 years in HILDA (n = 3,127), conservatively defined cognitive impairment was present in 3.8% of the sample. Impairment was defined by performance ≥1 standard deviation below the age- and education-adjusted mean on both the Symbol Digit Modalities Test and Backwards Digit Span test. In fully adjusted binomial regression models, impairment was associated with the probability of undertaking 1 h 9 min less volunteering a week compared to being nonimpaired (β = -1.15, 95% confidence interval -1.82 to -0.47, p = 0.001). In the population, 3.8% impairment equated to probable loss of AUD 302,307,969 per annum estimated by hours of volunteering valued by replacement cost. Conclusion: Nonclinical cognitive impairment in older age impacts upon on the nonmonetary economy via probable loss of volunteering contribution. Valuing loss of contribution provides additional information for cost-effectiveness evaluations of research and action directed toward maintaining older-age cognitive functioning.
Three new species of Sectonema Thorne, 1930 (Dorylaimida: Aporcelaimidae) from Vietnam
Authors: Álvarez-Ortega Sergio , Nguyen Thi Anh Duong , Abolafia Joaquín , Vu Thi Thanh Tam , Bonkowski Michael , Peña-Santiago Reyes
Published: March 2016

Three new species of the genus Sectonema collected from natural habitats in Vietnam are studied, described and illustrated, including line drawings, LM and/or SEM pictures. Sectonema birrucephalum sp. n. is characterised by its 2.73-4.35 mm long body, lip region 18-20 μm broad and offset by deep constriction, odontostyle 10.0-11.5 μm long on its ventral side, 659-989 μm long neck, pharyngeal expansion occupying 63-68% of total neck length, uterus a simple tube, 221-277 μm long, pars refringens vaginae present, V = 54-56, tail short (31-43 μm, c = 85-111, c′ = 0.6-0.8) and rounded, spicules 72-75 μm long, and four or five irregularly spaced ventromedian supplements beyond the range of the spicules. Sectonema buccociliatum sp. n. is distinguished by its 2.00-2.46 mm long body, lip region offset by constriction, 19-20 μm broad and bearing perioral cilia-like structures, odontostyle 13-14 μm long at its ventral side, 530-625 μm long neck, pharyngeal expansion occupying 62-69% of total neck length, uterus a simple tube, 116-152 μm long, pars refringens vaginae present, V = 56-62, tail short (23-31 μm, c = 72-104, c′ = 0.6-0.8) and rounded, spicules 56-68 μm long, and 3-5 spaced and weakly developed ventromedian supplements beyond the range of the spicules. Sectonema ciliatum sp. n. is characterised by its 2.79-3.13 mm long body, lip region offset by constriction, 21-22 μm broad and bearing perioral cilia-like structures, odontostyle 14-15 μm long at its ventral side, 699-722 μm long neck, pharyngeal expansion occupying 60% of total neck length, uterus a simple tube, 201-244 μm long, pars refringens vaginae present, V = 52-53, tail short (33-35 μm, c = 82-92, c′ = 0.6-0.7) and rounded, spicules 70-72 μm long, and three or four spaced and weakly developed ventromedian supplements beyond the range of the spicules. Molecular data obtained for S. ciliatum sp. n. and the derived evolutionary tree show a close phylogenetic relationship with other species of the genus.
Philodendron fibraecataphyllum (Araceae), a new species from the lowlands in Western Colombia and Ecuador
Authors: MORA M. MARCELA , CROAT THOMAS B.
Published: March 2016

We describe a new species of Philodendron subgenus Philodendron from the lowlands of the Pacific Coast of Colombia and Ecuador. The new species is compared with P. acuminatissimum and P. balaoanum, two similar species from western Ecuador.
A genus-level classification of the family Thraupidae (Class Aves: Order Passeriformes)
Authors: BURNS KEVIN J. , UNITT PHILIP , MASON NICHOLAS A.
Published: March 2016

The tanagers (Thraupidae) are a major component of the Neotropical avifauna, and vary in plumage colors, behaviors, morphologies, and ecologies. Globally, they represent nearly 4% of all avian species and are the largest family of songbirds. However, many currently used tanager genera are not monophyletic, based on analyses of molecular data that have accumulated over the past 25 years. Current genus-level classifications of tanagers have not been revised according to newly documented relationships of tanagers for various reasons: 1) the lack of a comprehensive phylogeny, 2) reluctance to lump existing genera into larger groups, and 3) the lack of available names for newly defined smaller groups. Here, we present two alternative classifications based on a newly published comprehensive phylogeny of tanagers. One of these classifications uses existing generic names, but defines them broadly. The other, which we advocate and follow here, provides new generic names for more narrowly defined groups. Under the latter, we propose eleven new genera (Asemospiza, Islerothraupis, Maschalethraupis, Chrysocorypha, Kleinothraupis, Castanozoster, Ephippiospingus, Chionodacryon, Pseudosaltator, Poecilostreptus, Stilpnia), and resurrect several generic names to form monophyletic taxa. Either of these classifications would allow taxonomic authorities to reconcile classification with current understanding of tanager phylogenetic relationships. Having a more phylogenetically accurate classification for tanagers will facilitate the study and conservation of this important Neotropical radiation of songbirds.