bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple Sclerosis Mortality Rates in Canada, 1975-2009
Authors: Warren Sharon A. , Janzen Wonita , Warren Kenneth G. , Svenson Lawrence W. , Schopflocher Donald P.
Published: August 2015

Background: This study examined mortality due to multiple sclerosis (MS) in Canada, 1975-2009 to determine whether there has been a change in age at death relative to the general population and decrease in MS mortality rates. Methods: Mortality rates/100,000 population for MS and all causes were calculated using data derived from Statistics Canada, age-standardized to the 2006 population. Results: The average annual Canadian MS mortality rate, 1975-2009 was 1.23/100,000. Five-year rates for 1975-79, 1980-84, 1985-89, 1990-94, 1995-99, 2000-04, 2005-09 were: 1.16, 0.94, 1.01, 1.16, 1.30, 1.43, 1.33. Trend analysis showed mortality rates over the entire 35 years were stable (average annual percent change of less than one percent). The average annual 1975-2009 rates for females and males were 1.45 and 0.99. Five-year female rates were always higher than males. Regardless of gender, there was a decrease in MS mortality rates in the 0-39 age group and increases in the 60-69, 70-79, and 80+ groups over time. In contrast, there were decreases in all-cause mortality rates across each age group. The highest MS mortality rates for 1975-2009 were consistently in the 50-59 and 60-69 groups for both genders, while the highest all-cause mortality rates were in the 80+ group. Conclusions: Changes in the age distribution of MS mortality rates indicate a shift to later age at death, possibly due to improved health care. However MS patients remain disadvantaged relative to the general population and changes in age at death are not reflected in decreased mortality rates.
MODIFIED SCATTERING FOR THE CUBIC SCHRÖDINGER EQUATION ON PRODUCT SPACES AND APPLICATIONS
Authors: HANI ZAHER , PAUSADER BENOIT , TZVETKOV NIKOLAY , VISCIGLIA NICOLA
Published: August 2015

We consider the cubic nonlinear Schrödinger equation posed on the spatial domain$\mathbb{R}\times \mathbb{T}^{d}$. We prove modified scattering and construct modified wave operators for small initial and final data respectively ($1\leqslant d\leqslant 4$). The key novelty comes from the fact that the modified asymptotic dynamics are dictated by theresonant systemof this equation, which sustains interesting dynamics when$d\geqslant 2$. As a consequence, we obtain global strong solutions (for$d\geqslant 2$) with infinitely growing high Sobolev norms $H^{s}$.
On scaling pipe flows with sinusoidal transversely corrugated walls: analysis of data from the laminar to the low-Reynolds-number turbulent regime
Authors: Saha S. , Klewicki J. C. , Ooi A. , Blackburn H. M.
Published: August 2015

Direct numerical simulation was used to study laminar and turbulent flows in circular pipes with smoothly corrugated walls. The corrugation wavelength was kept constant at$0.419D$, where$D$is the mean diameter of the wavy-wall pipe and the corrugation height was varied from zero to$0.08D$. Flow rates were varied in steps between low values that generate laminar flow and higher values where the flow is in the post-transitional turbulent regime. Simulations in the turbulent regime were also carried out at a constant Reynolds number,$\mathit{Re}_{{\it\tau}}=314$, for all corrugation heights. It was found that even in the laminar regime, larger-amplitude corrugations produce flow separation. This leads to the proportion of pressure drop attributable to pressure drag being approximately 50 %, and rising to approximately 85 % in transitional rough-wall flow. The near-wall structure of turbulent flow is seen to be heavily influenced by the effects of flow separation and reattachment. Farther from the wall, the statistical profiles examined exhibit behaviours characteristic of smooth-wall flows or distributed roughness rough-wall flows. These observations support Townsend’s wall-similarity hypothesis. The organized nature of the present roughness allows the mean pressure drop to be written as a function of the corrugation height. When this is exploited in an analysis of the mean dynamical equation, the scaling problem is explicitly revealed to result from the combined influences of roughness and Reynolds number. The present results support the recent analysis and observations of Mehdiet al.(J. Fluid Mech., vol. 731, 2013, pp. 682–712), indicating that the length scale given by the distance from the wall at which the mean viscous force loses leading order is important to describing these combined influences, as well as providing a dynamically self-consistent connection to the scaling structure of smooth-wall pipe flow.
Dimensionality, secondary flows and helicity in low-Rm MHD vortices
Authors: Baker Nathaniel T. , Pothérat Alban , Davoust Laurent
Published: August 2015

In this paper, we examine the dimensionality of a single electrically driven vortex bounded by two no-slip and perfectly insulating horizontal walls a distance $h$ apart. The study was performed in the weakly inertial limit by means of an asymptotic expansion, which is valid for any Hartmann number. We show that the dimensionality of the leading order can be fully described using the single parameter $l_{z}^{{\it\nu}}/h$, where $l_{z}^{{\it\nu}}$ represents the distance over which the Lorentz force is able to act before being balanced by viscous dissipation. The base flow happens to introduce inertial recirculations in the meridional plane at the first order, which are shown to follow two radically different mechanisms: inverse Ekman pumping driven by a vertical pressure gradient along the axis of the vortex, or direct Ekman pumping driven by a radial pressure gradient in the Hartmann boundary layers. We demonstrate that when the base flow is quasi-2D, the relative importance of direct and inverse pumping is solely determined by the aspect ratio ${\it\eta}/h$, where ${\it\eta}$ refers to the width of the vortex. Of the two mechanisms, only inverse pumping appears to act as a significant source of helicity.
Symmetry reduction of turbulent pipe flows
Authors: Fedele Francesco , Abessi Ozeair , Roberts Philip J.
Published: August 2015

We propose and apply a Fourier-based symmetry-reduction scheme to remove, or quotient, the streamwise translation symmetry of laser-induced-fluorescence measurements of turbulent pipe flows that are viewed as dynamical systems in a high-dimensional state space. We also explain the relation between Taylor’s hypothesis and the comoving frame velocity $U_{d}$ of the turbulent orbit in state space. In particular, in physical space we observe flow structures that deform as they advect downstream at a speed that differs significantly from $U_{d}$. Indeed, the symmetry-reduction analysis of planar dye concentration fields at Reynolds number $Re=3200$ reveals that the speed $u$ at which high-concentration peaks advect is roughly 1.43 times $U_{d}$. In a physically meaningful symmetry-reduced frame, the excess speed $u-U_{d}\approx 0.43U_{d}$ can be explained in terms of the so-called geometric phase velocity $U_{g}$ associated with the orbit in state space. The ‘self-propulsion velocity’ $U_{g}$ is induced by the shape-changing dynamics of passive scalar structures observed in the symmetry-reduced frame, in analogy with that of a swimmer at low Reynolds numbers.
Elastohydrodynamics of a sliding, spinning and sedimenting cylinder near a soft wall
Authors: Salez Thomas , Mahadevan L.
Published: August 2015

We consider the motion of a fluid-immersed negatively buoyant particle in the vicinity of a thin compressible elastic wall, a situation that arises in a variety of technological and natural settings. We use scaling arguments to establish different regimes of sliding, and complement these estimates using thin-film lubrication dynamics to determine an asymptotic theory for the sedimentation, sliding and spinning motions of a cylinder. The resulting theory takes the form of three coupled nonlinear singular-differential equations. Numerical integration of the resulting equations confirms our scaling relations and further yields a range of unexpected behaviours. Despite the low-Reynolds-number feature of the flow, we demonstrate that the particle can spontaneously oscillate when sliding, can generate lift via a Magnus-like effect, can undergo a spin-induced reversal effect and also shows an unusual sedimentation singularity. Our description also allows us to address a sedimentation–sliding transition that can lead to the particle coasting over very long distances, similar to certain geophysical phenomena. Finally, we show that a small modification of our theory allows us to generalize the results to account for additional effects such as wall poroelasticity.
Extramural rock-cut sanctuaries in the territory of Cyrene
Authors: Menozzi Oliva
Published: August 2015

Chieti University's team in Libya has been mapping and studying the extraordinary patrimony in rupestrian architecture, looking at both funerary and sacred spaces. Particular attention has been paid to the rock-cut sanctuaries in the areas to the east (Ain Hofra/Bu Miliou areas) and to the west (Baggara and Budrag) of Cyrene, which also represent the most problematic zones for looting and vandalism. Therefore, the principal need for these areas has been to plan a project of mapping and recording that is as systematic as possible for this huge patrimony. The resulting data, coming from surveys, non-invasive geo-prospecting, laser scanning of the main monuments, diagnostic mapping of the damaged monuments, as well as from the excavations, have been recorded in a multilayer GIS. In combination with the surveys, a series of excavations have also been organised in several areas in order to have stratigraphic information from sample areas, which have been chosen on the basis of both their typology/monumentality and the degree of risk of damage and looting. These sanctuaries are generally located on the steep slopes of deep canyons, typically associated with water springs, wild landscape, chthonian cults and also, therefore, funerary areas. They are generally monumentalised and emphasised by rock-cut architecture. Among the most interesting finds are the sanctuaries of Budrag and Ain Hofra, with votive inscriptions, rocky altars and shrines. Particularly interesting is the discovery of a rocky high-relief statue of Dionysus, attesting a possible open-air sanctuary in the area of Baggara. It is a unique example of rocky sculpture in Cyrene and it could be one of the best-preserved examples from the Greek world. Distinguishable by their topography, architectonic features and distance from the town, these rocky sanctuaries attest to a reciprocal osmosis between Greco-Roman and Libyan cultural, artistic and ritual elements. The levels of hybridisation and reciprocity vary from case to case and from period to period, suggesting different degrees of Greco-Roman impact, which seem to be, generally speaking, inversely proportional to the distance from Cyrene, giving space and voice to the cults and rites of the local tribes.
A novel technique for spreader graft placement without dorsum resection during septoplasty
Authors: Kaya E , Catli T , Soken H , Cingi C
Published: August 2015

Objective:

This paper presents a novel method for spreader graft placement without dorsum resection in patients who have a deviated septum with a narrow internal nasal valve angle.

Methods:

A Killian incision was used for the endonasal septoplasty, and all spreader grafts were harvested from excised deviated septal cartilages. Procedures were conducted under general anaesthesia at the same centre by the same surgical team that performed the endonasal procedure. Successful placement of spreader grafts was achieved endonasally.

Conclusion:

Although the endonasal placement of spreader grafts seems to be more difficult than placement conducted by an open approach technique, an endonasal procedure has many advantages. Our technique provides surgeons with the opportunity to shorten operation time, obtain autologous septal graft material and secure the columellar architecture. Surgeons familiar with the classical (endonasal) septoplasty procedure can easily apply this technique to widen a narrow internal nasal valve angle, without corrupting nasal integrity.
Women, Monastic Commerce, and Coverture in Eastern Indiacirca1600–1800 CE
Authors: CHATTERJEE INDRANI
Published: August 2015

This article argues that economic histories of the transition to colonial economics in the eighteenth century have overlooked the infrastructural investments that wives and widows made in networks of monastic commerce. Illustrative examples from late eighteenth-century records suggest that these networks competed with the commercial networks operated by private traders serving the English East India Company at the end of the eighteenth century. The latter prevailed. The results were the establishment of coverture and wardship laws interpellated from British common law courts into Company revenue policies, the demolition of buildings. and the relocation of the markets that were attached to many of the buildings women had sponsored. Together, these historical processes made women's commercial presence invisible to future scholars.
What derivations cannot do
Authors: OPPY GRAHAM
Published: August 2015

I think that there is much about contemporary philosophy of religion that should change. Most importantly, philosophy of religion should be philosophy of religion, not merely philosophy of theism, or philosophy of Christianity, or philosophy of certain denominations of Christianity, or the like. Here, however, I shall complain about one fairly narrow aspect of contemporary philosophy of religion that really irks me: its obsession with derivations that have as their conclusion either the claim that God exists or the claim that God does not exist. I shall work myself up by degrees.
Homo religiosus: does spirituality have a place in neo-Aristotelian virtue ethics?
Authors: MCPHERSON DAVID
Published: August 2015

In this article I seek to show the importance of spirituality for a neo-Aristotelian account of ‘the good life’. First, I lay out my account of spirituality. Second, I discuss why the issue of the place of spirituality in the good life has often either been ignored or explicitly excluded from consideration by neo-Aristotelians. I suggest that a lot turns on how one understands the ‘ethical naturalism’ to which neo-Aristotelians are committed. Finally, I argue that through a deeper exploration of the evaluative standpoint from within our human form of life as ‘meaning-seeking animals’ we can come to better appreciate the importance of spirituality for human beings throughout recorded history up to the present and why we can be described ashomo religiosus.
Games of cricket and the General Resurrection
Authors: STURCH RICHARD
Published: August 2015

It is often objected to the Christian doctrine of the resurrection of the dead that if we reject dualism and disembodied existence there is no way even for God to bring it about that a resurrected person is identical with his or her supposed original, rather than just a duplicate. My response is that if God intended all along that people should have two periods of existence, the problem vanishes. In a Test Match, there are long periods when the ground and stands are empty and no play takes place, yet no-one says that the resumed game may only be a duplicate of that of the previous day. The same holds for a resurrection intended from the beginning.
Tough choices still
Authors: KAPITAN TOMIS
Published: August 2015

Some argue that an omniprescient being cannot choose between mutually exclusive actions none of which is known to be uniquely reasonable. The view assumes that faced with such a choice one must believe each alternative to be epistemically possible, thereby precluding foreknowledge of what one will do. E. J. Coffman (2011) has challenged this assumption, but I argue that not only does he fail to undermine it, there are independent reasons why choice – and intentional agency generally – entails a presumption of epistemic possibility. The apparent incompatibility between omniprescience and intentional agency continues to pose a tough choice for theists.
Whither philosophy of religion?
Authors: LEFTOW BRIAN , ANDERSON PAMELA SUE , SCHELLENBERG J. L.
Published: August 2015

The post-war expansion of university faculties climaxed in the early 1970s. Since then, there have been more professional philosophers than ever before in history: a startling claim, but sober truth. In analytic philosophy, they have worked with more rigour and better training than even the Scholastics. It would take a surprising lack of talent among us, or perhaps argue some deep defect in the questions we ask, if the result werenotmore progress in philosophy than most periods can boast. And in fact, those who know what progress in philosophy looks like can see a lot of it: just compare Malcolm's 1960 piece on the ontological argument with Plantinga's 1974 treatment inThe Nature of Necessity, and then both with Oppy's book on the subject.
A geometric approach for singularity analysis of 3-DOF planar parallel manipulators using Grassmann–Cayley algebra
Authors: Wen Kefei , Seo TaeWon , Lee Jeh Won
Published: August 2015

Singular configurations of parallel manipulators (PMs) are special poses in which the manipulators cannot maintain their inherent infinite rigidity. These configurations are very important because they prevent the manipulator from being controlled properly, or the manipulator could be damaged. A geometric approach is introduced to identify singular conditions of planar parallel manipulators (PPMs) in this paper. The approach is based on screw theory, Grassmann–Cayley Algebra (GCA), and the static Jacobian matrix. The static Jacobian can be obtained more easily than the kinematic ones in PPMs. The Jacobian is expressed and analyzed by the join and meet operations of GCA. The singular configurations can be divided into three classes. This approach is applied to ten types of common PPMs consisting of three identical legs with one actuated joint and two passive joints.
Long-term growth patterns of juvenile trees from a Bolivian tropical moist forest: shifting investments in diameter growth and height growth
Authors: Rozendaal Danaë M.A. , During Heinjo J. , Sterck Frank J. , Asscheman Daan , Wiegeraad Jeroen , Zuidema Pieter A.
Published: August 2015

Juvenile tropical trees grow from the shaded understorey to the high-light conditions of the canopy, but actual height growth trajectories towards the canopy remain unknown. Although height growth is the determining factor for reaching the canopy, investment in diameter growth is needed to sustain mechanical stability. We quantified variation in long-term juvenile tree growth patterns in diameter and height within three Bolivian moist forest species, and evaluated whether diameter growth and height growth were related. We reconstructed lifetime growth in diameter and height for 21–27 juvenile trees per species by measuring tree rings at various heights in the stem. Growth in diameter and height strongly varied among and within tree species. The light-demanding speciesCedrelinga cateniformisneeded just 6–19 y to reach a height of 3 m, while the more shade-tolerant speciesClarisia racemosaandPeltogynecf.heterophyllaneeded 8–39 y and 13–43 y, respectively. Diameter growth and height growth were not, or just weakly, positively related, and trees of the same height displayed a wide range in stem diameter. Our results indicate that trees of all three species shifted investment in diameter growth and height growth over time, most likely in response to variation in light levels.
X-ray powder diffraction data for piperaquine, C29H32Cl2N6
Authors: Wang Qing , Huang Yan Mei , Ma Xing Ling , Li Shan Shan , Li Hui
Published: August 2015

X-ray powder diffraction data for piperaquine, C29H32Cl2N6, are reported [a = 15.8865(1) Å, b = 12.5975(3) Å, c = 13.2647(3) Å, β = 91.2890(1)°, unit-cell volume V = 2654.02 Å3, Z = 4, and space group P21/n]. All measured lines were indexed and are consistent with the P21/n space group. No detectable impurities were observed.
Relationship between Insulin-Resistance Processing Speed and Specific Executive Function Profiles in Neurologically Intact Older Adults
Authors: Frazier Darvis T. , Bettcher Brianne M. , Dutt Shubir , Patel Nihar , Mungas Dan , Miller Joshua , Green Ralph , Kramer Joel H.
Published: August 2015

This study investigated the relationship between insulin-resistance and constituent components of executive function in a sample of neurologically intact older adult subjects using the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR) and latent factors of working memory, cognitive control and processing speed derived from confirmatory factor analysis. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), mean arterial pressure (MAP), along with body mass index (BMI) and white matter hypointensity (WMH) were used to control for vascular risk factors, adiposity and cerebrovascular injury. The study included 119 elderly subjects recruited from the University of California, San Francisco Memory and Aging Center. Subjects underwent neuropsychological assessment, fasting blood draw and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Partial correlations and linear regression models were used to examine the HOMA-IR-executive function relationship. Pearson correlation adjusting for age showed a significant relationship between HOMA-IR and working memory (rp=−.18; p=.047), a trend with cognitive control (rp=−.17; p=.068), and no relationship with processing speed (rp=.013; p=.892). Linear regression models adjusting for demographic factors (age, education, and gender), LDL, MAP, BMI, and WMH indicated that HOMA-IR was negatively associated with cognitive control (r=−.256; p=.026) and working memory (r=−.234; p=.054). These results suggest a greater level of peripheral insulin-resistance is associated with decreased cognitive control and working memory. After controlling for demographic factors, vascular risk, adiposity and cerebrovascular injury, HOMA-IR remained significantly associated with cognitive control, with working memory showing a trend. These findings substantiate the insulin-resistance-executive function hypothesis and suggest a complex interaction, demonstrated by the differential impact of insulin-resistance on processing speed and specific aspects of executive function. (JINS, 2015, 21, 622–628)
BOUNDS FOR NONISOTROPIC MARCINKIEWICZ INTEGRALS ASSOCIATED TO SURFACES
Authors: LIU FENG , MAO SUZHEN
Published: August 2015

In an extrapolation argument, we prove certain $L^{p}\,(1<p<\infty )$ estimates for nonisotropic Marcinkiewicz operators associated to surfaces under the integral kernels given by the elliptic sphere functions ${\rm\Omega}\in L(\log ^{+}L)^{{\it\alpha}}({\rm\Sigma})$ and the radial function $h\in {\mathcal{N}}_{{\it\beta}}(\mathbb{R}^{+})$. As applications, the corresponding results for parametric Marcinkiewicz integral operators related to area integrals and Littlewood–Paley $g_{{\it\lambda}}^{\ast }$-functions are given.
Identification of stripe rust resistant genes in resistant synthetic hexaploid wheat accessions using linked markers
Authors: Farrakh Sumaira , Khalid Sumbul , Rafique Ayesha , Riaz Naveeda , Mujeeb-Kazi Abdul
Published: August 2015

Stripe rust, caused byPuccinia striiformisf. sp.tritici(Pst), is one of the most important diseases affecting wheat. In this study, seven gene-linked markers were used to identify the presence of stripe rust resistant genes in 51 accessions of synthetic hexaploid of wheat which were found to be resistant at seedling plant stage. Molecular marker-based gene identification showed the presence ofYr5,Yr10andYr15in three accessions,Yr36in three accessions,Yr48in seven accessions,YrR61in four accessions, andYrTP1in ten accessions of resistant hexaploid of wheat. These gene-linked markers were also used for the detection of genetic diversity. A total of 68 alleles were detected by these seven gene-linked markers. The mean number of allele was 11.3 alleles per locus. Genetic diversity values ranged from 0.34 to 0.93, with highest genetic diversity value of 0.93 detected for markerXwm477. The lowest genetic diversity value was observed for markerXbarc167. The polymorphic information content value ranged from 0.33 to 0.92 with an average of 0.54. The highest number of alleles (n= 24) were detected for markerXwmc477. The evidence in this study on the basis of genetic diversity and presence ofYrgenes in synthetic hexaploid wheat accessions will be useful in further breeding programmes.
Assessment of genetic diversity and relatedness in the Latvian potato genetic resources collection by DArT genotyping
Authors: Rungis D. E. , Voronova A. , Kokina A. , Veinberga I. , Skrabule I. , Rostoks N.
Published: August 2015

Potato (Solanum tuberosumL.) has been cultivated in Latvia since the 17th century, and formal breeding programmes have been established since the start of the 20th century. The Latvian potato genetic resource collection consists of 83 accessions of Latvian origin, including landraces, old cultivars released starting from the 1930's, modern cultivars and breeding material. These are maintained in field andin vitrocollections. Pedigree information about the potato cultivars is often limited, and the use of hybrids of local cultivars as parents is common in the Latvian potato breeding programme. Ninety-four Latvian potato varieties and breeding lines and some commonly used foreign accessions were genotyped with the potato DNA diversity array technology. Analysis of the Latvian potato genetic resources collection revealed that the amount of genetic diversity has increased in the modern cultivars in comparison with the old cultivars.
Description of Stephos grieveae sp. nov. (Calanoida, Stephidae) from an anchialine cave in the Adriatic Sea
Authors: Kršinić Frano
Published: August 2015

A new species of stephid calanoids copepodStephos grieveaesp. nov. was collected from an anchialine cave on Mljet Island (Croatia). The new species can be distinguished from otherStephosspp. by a combination of the following features: last pedigerous somite slightly asymmetrical, female genital double-somite symmetrical in ventral view, about as long as wide, single operculum; antennules of both sexes are symmetrical, 24-segmented and very long, reaching almost to end of anal somite; antennal exopod 7-segmented; maxillule displays 13 armature elements on praecoxal arthrite; female fifth legs symmetrical, uniramous and 3-segmented, terminal segment very long armed with spinules distally along inner and outer margins, single small spine on anterior surface and spiniform process laterally; male fifth legs are uniramous and asymmetrically, right leg 4-segmented and left 5-segmented, segment 4 not swollen and segment 5 simple, crescent shaped and is connected to segment 4 at approximately one quarter of its length. The shorter part of segment 5 tapers into a heavy process, while the longer part forms a club-shaped, curved extension.
Design of ramp-time current control with dynamic fuzzy bandwidth for wireless power transmission
Authors: Wen Chek Leong , Mekhilef Saad , Sulaiman Erwan , Krishnamurthi Macwien
Published: August 2015

This paper presents a novel experimental simulation of ramp-time current control with fuzzy bandwidth for wireless power transmission (WPT) systems. A fuzzy logic control algorithm was designed based on the structure of ramp-time current control in active power filters through simulation of ramp-time bandwidth variation to dynamically adjust the loop width of the ramp-time comparator. Ramp-time current control is the most suitable over other current control techniques and is thus selected for the experiment. Implementation of this approach prevents over-limit of switching frequency and enhances dynamic responses, resulting in long lifespan of power switches and smooth output for WPT systems. Finally, the hypothesis and simulation results were verified by analyzing the prototype model and experiment results.
Higher Incidence of Hypospadias in Monochorionic Twins
Authors: Visser Remco , Burger Nienke C. M. , van Zwet Erik W. , Hilhorst-Hofstee Yvonne , Haak Monique C. , van den Hoek Joop , Oepkes Dick , Lopriore Enrico
Published: August 2015

Background:Hypospadias is associated with twinning. The incidence of hypospadias in monochorionic and dichorionic male twins is, however, yet to be determined.Methods:All medical records of monochorionic and dichorionic twins admitted to our neonatal nursery between January 2004 and August 2013 were reviewed for the presence of hypospadias.Results:A total of 350 monochorionic and 303 dichorionic male twins were included in the study. The incidence of hypospadias in monochorionic and dichorionic groups was 4% (14/350) and 1% (3/303) (p= .016) respectively. In 11 of the 15 twin couples, hypospadias occurred in the twin with the lowest birth weight. The rate of hypospadias in twin infants small-for-gestational-age group was 10% (6/60) compared with 2% (11/593) in the appropriate-for-gestational-age group (p= .002). In a multivariate analysis, both monochorionicity and small-for-gestational-age were independently associated with hypospadias, odds ratio 4.1 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.1–14.7) and 6.1 (95% CI: 2.2–17.2) respectively.Conclusions: The incidence of hypospadias is four-fold higher in monochorionic twins compared with dichorionic twins. Hypospadias is also independently associated with small-for-gestational-age.
Long-term effects of timber harvesting on hemicellulolytic microbial populations in coniferous forest soils
Authors: Leung Hilary T C , Maas Kendra R , Wilhelm Roland C , Mohn William W
Published: August 2015

Forest ecosystems need to be sustainably managed, as they are major reservoirs of biodiversity, provide important economic resources and modulate global climate. We have a poor knowledge of populations responsible for key biomass degradation processes in forest soils and the effects of forest harvesting on these populations. Here, we investigated the effects of three timber-harvesting methods, varying in the degree of organic matter removal, on putatively hemicellulolytic bacterial and fungal populations 10 or more years after harvesting and replanting. We used stable-isotope probing to identify populations that incorporated 13C from labeled hemicellulose, analyzing 13C-enriched phospholipid fatty acids, bacterial 16 S rRNA genes and fungal ITS regions. In soil microcosms, we identified 104 bacterial and 52 fungal hemicellulolytic operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Several of these OTUs are affiliated with taxa not previously reported to degrade hemicellulose, including the bacterial genera Methylibium, Pelomonas and Rhodoferax, and the fungal genera Cladosporium, Pseudeurotiaceae, Capronia, Xenopolyscytalum and Venturia. The effect of harvesting on hemicellulolytic populations was evaluated based on in situ bacterial and fungal OTUs. Harvesting treatments had significant but modest long-term effects on relative abundances of hemicellulolytic populations, which differed in strength between two ecozones and between soil layers. For soils incubated in microcosms, prior harvesting treatments did not affect the rate of incorporation of hemicellulose carbon into microbial biomass. In six ecozones across North America, distributions of the bacterial hemicellulolytic OTUs were similar, whereas distributions of fungal ones differed. Our work demonstrates that diverse taxa in soil are hemicellulolytic, many of which are differentially affected by the impact of harvesting on environmental conditions. However, the hemicellulolytic capacity of soil communities appears resilient.
The SnRK2-APC/CTE regulatory module mediates the antagonistic action of gibberellic acid and abscisic acid pathways
Authors: Lin Qibing , Wu Fuqing , Sheng Peike , Zhang Zhe , Zhang Xin , Guo Xiuping , Wang Jiulin , Cheng Zhijun , Wang Jie , Wang Haiyang , Wan Jianmin
Published: August 2015

Abscisic acid (ABA) and gibberellic acid (GA) antagonistically regulate many developmental processes and responses to biotic or abiotic stresses in higher plants. However, the molecular mechanism underlying this antagonism is still poorly understood. Here, we show that loss-of-function mutation in rice Tiller Enhancer (TE), an activator of the APC/CTE complex, causes hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity to ABA and GA, respectively. We find that TE physically interacts with ABA receptor OsPYL/RCARs and promotes their degradation by the proteasome. Genetic analysis also shows OsPYL/RCARs act downstream of TE in mediating ABA responses. Conversely, ABA inhibits APC/CTE activity by phosphorylating TE through activating the SNF1-related protein kinases (SnRK2s), which may interrupt the interaction between TE and OsPYL/RCARs and subsequently stabilize OsPYL/RCARs. In contrast, GA can reduce the level of SnRK2s and may promote APC/CTE-mediated degradation of OsPYL/RCARs. Thus, we propose that the SnRK2-APC/CTE regulatory module represents a regulatory hub underlying the antagonistic action of GA and ABA in plants.
Self-powered thin-film motion vector sensor
Authors: Jing Qingshen , Xie Yannan , Zhu Guang , Han Ray P. S. , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: August 2015

Harnessing random micromeso-scale ambient energy is not only clean and sustainable, but it also enables self-powered sensors and devices to be realized. Here we report a robust and self-powered kinematic vector sensor fabricated using highly pliable organic films that can be bent to spread over curved and uneven surfaces. The device derives its operational energy from a close-proximity triboelectrification of two surfaces: a polytetrafluoroethylene film coated with a two-column array of copper electrodes that constitutes the mover and a polyimide film with the top and bottom surfaces coated with a two-column aligned array of copper electrodes that comprises the stator. During relative reciprocations, the electrodes in the mover generate electric signals of ±5 V to attain a peak power density of ≥65 mW m−2 at a speed of 0.3 ms−1. From our 86,000 sliding motion tests of kinematic measurements, the sensor exhibits excellent stability, repeatability and strong signal durability.
Novel microscopy-based screening method reveals regulators of contact-dependent intercellular transfer
Authors: Frei Dominik Michael , Hodneland Erlend , Rios-Mondragon Ivan , Burtey Anne , Neumann Beate , Bulkescher Jutta , Schölermann Julia , Pepperkok Rainer , Gerdes Hans-Hermann , Kögel Tanja
Published: August 2015

Contact-dependent intercellular transfer (codeIT) of cellular constituents can have functional consequences for recipient cells, such as enhanced survival and drug resistance. Pathogenic viruses, prions and bacteria can also utilize this mechanism to spread to adjacent cells and potentially evade immune detection. However, little is known about the molecular mechanism underlying this intercellular transfer process. Here, we present a novel microscopy-based screening method to identify regulators and cargo of codeIT. Single donor cells, carrying fluorescently labelled endocytic organelles or proteins, are co-cultured with excess acceptor cells. CodeIT is quantified by confocal microscopy and image analysis in 3D, preserving spatial information. An siRNA-based screening using this method revealed the involvement of several myosins and small GTPases as codeIT regulators. Our data indicates that cellular protrusions and tubular recycling endosomes are important for codeIT. We automated image acquisition and analysis to facilitate large-scale chemical and genetic screening efforts to identify key regulators of codeIT.
R2O3 (R = La, Y) modified erbium activated germanate glasses for mid-infrared 2.7 μm laser materials
Authors: Cai Muzhi , Zhou Beier , Wang Fengchao , Wei Tao , Tian Ying , Zhou Jiajia , Xu Shiqing , Zhang Junjie
Published: August 2015

Er3+ activated germanate glasses modified by La2O3 and Y2O3 with good thermal stability were prepared. 2.7 μm fluorescence was observed and corresponding radiative properties were investigated. A detailed discussion of J–O parameters has been carried out based on absorption spectra and Judd–Ofelt theory. The peak emission cross sections of La2O3 and Y2O3 modified germanate glass are (14.3 ± 0.10) × 10−21 cm2 and (15.4 ± 0.10) × 10−21 cm2, respectively. Non-radiative relaxation rate constants and energy transfer coefficients of 4I11/2 and 4I13/2 levels have been obtained and discussed to understand the 2.7 μm fluorescence behavior. Moreover, the energy transfer processes of 4I11/2 and 4I13/2 level were quantitatively analyzed according to Dexter’s theory and Inokuti–Hirayama model. The theoretical calculations are in good agreement with the observed 2.7 μm fluorescence phenomena. Results demonstrate that the Y2O3 modified germanate glass, which possesses more excellent spectroscopic properties than La2O3 modified germanate glass, might be an attractive candidate for mid-infrared laser.
The ubiquity and ancestry of insect doublesex
Authors: Price Dana C. , Egizi Andrea , Fonseca Dina M.
Published: August 2015

The doublesex (dsx) gene functions as a molecular switch at the base of the insect sex determination cascade and triggers male or female somatic sexual differentiation in Drosophila. Having been reported from only seven current insect orders, the exact phylogenetic distribution of dsx within the largest Arthropod sub-phylum, the Hexapoda, is unknown. To understand the evolution of this integral gene relative to other arthropods, we tested for the presence of dsx within public EST and genome sequencing projects representative of all 32 hexapod orders. We find the dsx gene to be ubiquitous, with putative orthologs recovered from 30 orders. Additionally, we recovered both alternatively spliced and putative paralogous dsx transcripts from several orders of hexapods, including basal lineages, indicating the likely presence of these characteristics in the hexapod common ancestor. Of note, other arthropods such as chelicerates and crustaceans express two dsx genes, both of which are shown to lack alternative splicing. Furthermore, we discovered a large degree of length heterogeneity in the common region of dsx coding sequences within and among orders, possibly resulting from lineage-specific selective pressures inherent to each taxon. Our work serves as a valuable resource for understanding the evolution of sex determination in insects.
Genome-wide DNA polymorphisms in low Phosphate tolerant and sensitive rice genotypes
Authors: Mehra Poonam , Pandey Bipin K. , Giri Jitender
Published: August 2015

Soil Phosphorus (P) deficiency is one of the major challenges to rice crop world-wide. Modern rice genotypes are highly P-responsive and rely on high input of P fertilizers. However, low P tolerant traditional cultivars and landraces have genetic potential to sustain well under low P. Identification of high resolution DNA polymorphisms (SNPs and InDels) in such contrasting genotypes is largely missing for low P response at gene levels. Here, we report high quality DNA polymorphisms in low P sensitive genotype, PB1 and tolerant traditional genotype, Dular. We performed whole genome resequencing using Illumina NGS platform and identified a total of 5,157,939 sequence variants in PB1 and Dular with reference to Nipponbare genome. We have identified approximately 2.3 million and 2.9 million high quality polymorphisms in PB1 and Dular, respectively, with an average read depth of ≥24X. We further mapped several DNA polymorphisms (non-synonymous and regulatory variants) having potential functional significance to key Phosphate Starvation Responsive (PSR) and root architecture genes in Dular and Kasalath using a compiled list of low P responsive genes. These identified variants can serve as a useful source of genetic variability for improving low P tolerance and root architecture of high yielding modern genotypes.
Stearic acid induces proinflammatory cytokine production partly through activation of lactate-HIF1α pathway in chondrocytes
Authors: Miao Hongming , Chen Liang , Hao Lijun , Zhang Xuan , Chen Yujuan , Ruan Zhihua , Liang Houjie
Published: August 2015

The biomechanics stress and chronic inflammation in obesity are causally linked to osteoarthritis. However, the metabolic factors mediating obesity-related osteoarthritis are still obscure. Here we scanned and identified at least two elevated metabolites (stearic acid and lactate) from the plasma of diet-induced obese mice. We found that stearic acid potentiated LDH-a-dependent production of lactate, which further stabilized HIF1α protein and increased VEGF and proinflammatory cytokine expression in primary mouse chondrocytes. Treatment with LDH-a and HIF1α inhibitors notably attenuated stearic acid-or high fat diet-stimulated proinflammatory cytokine production in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, positive correlation of plasma lactate, cartilage HIF1α and cytokine levels with the body mass index was observed in subjects with osteoarthritis. In conclusion, saturated free fatty acid induced proinflammatory cytokine production partly through activation of a novel lactate-HIF1α pathway in chondrocytes. Our findings hold promise of developing novel clinical strategies for the management of obesity-related diseases such as osteoarthritis.
High-yield isolation of extracellular vesicles using aqueous two-phase system
Authors: Shin Hyunwoo , Han Chungmin , Labuz Joseph M. , Kim Jiyoon , Kim Jongmin , Cho Siwoo , Gho Yong Song , Takayama Shuichi , Park Jaesung
Published: August 2015

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) such as exosomes and microvesicles released from cells are potential biomarkers for blood-based diagnostic applications. To exploit EVs as diagnostic biomarkers, an effective pre-analytical process is necessary. However, recent studies performed with blood-borne EVs have been hindered by the lack of effective purification strategies. In this study, an efficient EV isolation method was developed by using polyethylene glycol/dextran aqueous two phase system (ATPS). This method provides high EV recovery efficiency (~70%) in a short time (~15 min). Consequently, it can significantly increase the diagnostic applicability of EVs.
Identification and characterization of the chromosomal yefM-yoeB toxin-antitoxin system of Streptococcus suis
Authors: Zheng Chengkun , Xu Jiali , Ren Sujing , Li Jinquan , Xia Miaomiao , Chen Huanchun , Bei Weicheng
Published: August 2015

Toxin-antitoxin (TA) systems are widely prevalent in the genomes of bacteria and archaea. These modules have been identified in Escherichia coli and various other bacteria. However, their presence in the genome of Streptococcus suis, an important zoonotic pathogen, has received little attention. In this study, we describe the identification and characterization of a type II TA system, comprising the chromosomal yefM-yoeB locus of S. suis. The yefM-yoeB locus is present in the genome of most serotypes of S. suis. Overproduction of S. suis YoeB toxin inhibited the growth of E. coli and the toxicity of S. suis YoeB could be alleviated by the antitoxin YefM from S. suis and Streptococcus pneumoniae, but not by E. coli YefM. More importantly, introduction of the S. suis yefM-yoeB system into E. coli could affect cell growth. In a murine infection model, deletion of the yefM-yoeB locus had no effect on the virulence of S. suis serotype 2. Collectively, our data suggested that the yefM-yoeB locus of S. suis is an active TA system without the involvement of virulence.
Lentiviral shRNA against KCa3.1 inhibits allergic response in allergic rhinitis and suppresses mast cell activity via PI3K/AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Lin Hai , Zheng Chunquan , Li Jing , Yang Chen , Hu Li
Published: August 2015

Calcium-activated potassium ion channel-3.1 (KCa3.1) plays a pivotal role in the potassium-calcium exchange involved in atopy. This study aimed to explore the impact of lentiviral-mediated shRNA silencing KCa3.1 on allergic response in a murine allergic rhinitis (AR) model. The BALB/c mice were divided into four groups: untreated AR group, negative control AR group, lentiviral KCa3.1-shRNA treated AR group and normal control group. Concentrations of ovalbumin (OVA)-specific IgE, histamine and leukotrienes C4 (LTC4) in serum and IL-4, IL-9 and IL-17 in nasal lavage fluid (NLF) were analyzed. Goblet cells and mast cells were counted. KCa3.1 positive cells were counted after immunolabelling by immunofluorescence method. KCa3.1, Mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) and tryptase mRNA levels were determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Furthermore, P815 cell line was used to explore the role and mechanism of lentiviral KCa3.1-shRNA on mast cells. The results showed that LV-KCa3.1-shRNA intervention effectively attenuated allergic responses in LV-KCa3.1-shRNA treated mice. LV-KCa3.1-shRNA intervention effectively suppressed KCa3.1 levels and phosphorylation of AKT in P815 cells, leading to the downregulation of tryptase, IL-6 and IL-8 levels. LV-KCa3.1-shRNA intervention effectively attenuated the allergic responses in AR and suppressed mast cell activity by inhibiting PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
Histamine deficiency exacerbates myocardial injury in acute myocardial infarction through impaired macrophage infiltration and increased cardiomyocyte apoptosis
Authors: Deng Long , Hong Tao , Lin Jinyi , Ding Suling , Huang Zheyong , Chen Jinmiao , Jia Jianguo , Zou Yunzeng , Wang Timothy C. , Yang Xiangdong , Ge Junbo
Published: August 2015

Histamine is a biogenic amine that is widely distributed and has multiple functions, but the role it plays in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the origin and contribution of endogenous histamine to AMI. Histidine decarboxylase (HDC) is the unique enzyme responsible for histamine generation. Using HDC-EGFP bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) transgenic mice in which EGFP expression is controlled by the HDC promoter, we identified HDC expression primarily in CD11b+Gr-1+ immature myeloid cells (IMCs) that markedly increase in the early stages of AMI. Deficiency of histamine in HDC knockout mice (HDC−/−) reduced cardiac function and exacerbated the injury of infarcted heart. Furthermore, administering either an H1 receptor antagonist (pyrilamine) or an H2 receptor antagonist (cimetidine) demonstrated a protective effect of histamine against myocardial injury. The results of in vivo and in vitro assays showed that histamine deficiency promotes the apoptosis of cardiomyocytes and inhibits macrophage infiltration. In conclusion, CD11b+Gr-1+ IMCs are the predominant HDC-expressing sites in AMI and histamine plays a protective role in the process of AMI through inhibition of cardiomyocyte apoptosis and facilitation of macrophage infiltration.
Unique Toll-Like Receptor 4 Activation by NAMPT/PBEF Induces NFκB Signaling and Inflammatory Lung Injury
Authors: Camp Sara M. , Ceco Ermelinda , Evenoski Carrie L. , Danilov Sergei M. , Zhou Tong , Chiang Eddie T. , Moreno-Vinasco Liliana , Mapes Brandon , Zhao Jieling , Gursoy Gamze , Brown Mary E. , Adyshev Djanybek M. , Siddiqui Shahid S. , Quijada Hector , Sammani Saad , Letsiou Eleftheria , Saadat Laleh , Yousef Mohammed , Wang Ting , Liang Jie , Garcia Joe G. N.
Published: August 2015

Ventilator-induced inflammatory lung injury (VILI) is mechanistically linked to increased NAMPT transcription and circulating levels of nicotinamide phosphoribosyl-transferase (NAMPT/PBEF). Although VILI severity is attenuated by reduced NAMPT/PBEF bioavailability, the precise contribution of NAMPT/PBEF and excessive mechanical stress to VILI pathobiology is unknown. We now report that NAMPT/PBEF induces lung NFκB transcriptional activities and inflammatory injury via direct ligation of Toll–like receptor 4 (TLR4). Computational analysis demonstrated that NAMPT/PBEF and MD-2, a TLR4-binding protein essential for LPS-induced TLR4 activation, share ~30% sequence identity and exhibit striking structural similarity in loop regions critical for MD-2-TLR4 binding. Unlike MD-2, whose TLR4 binding alone is insufficient to initiate TLR4 signaling, NAMPT/PBEF alone produces robust TLR4 activation, likely via a protruding region of NAMPT/PBEF (S402-N412) with structural similarity to LPS. The identification of this unique mode of TLR4 activation by NAMPT/PBEF advances the understanding of innate immunity responses as well as the untoward events associated with mechanical stress-induced lung inflammation.