bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complete Genome Sequences of Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesviruses 1A and 1B Determined Directly from Fatal Cases
Authors: Wilkie Gavin S. , Davison Andrew J. , Watson Mick , Kerr Karen , Sanderson Stephanie , Bouts Tim , Steinbach Falko , Dastjerdi Akbar
Published: April 2013

A highly lethal hemorrhagic disease associated with infection by elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV) poses a severe threat to Asian elephant husbandry. We have used high-throughput methods to sequence the genomes of the two genotypes that are involved in most fatalities, namely, EEHV1A and EEHV1B (species
Elephantid herpesvirus 1
, genus
Proboscivirus
, subfamily
Betaherpesvirinae
, family
Herpesviridae
). The sequences were determined from postmortem tissue samples, despite the data containing tiny proportions of viral reads among reads from a host for which the genome sequence was not available. The EEHV1A genome is 180,421 bp in size and consists of a unique sequence (174,601 bp) flanked by a terminal direct repeat (2,910 bp). The genome contains 116 predicted protein-coding genes, of which six are fragmented, and seven paralogous gene families are present. The EEHV1B genome is very similar to that of EEHV1A in structure, size, and gene layout. Half of the EEHV1A genes lack orthologs in other members of subfamily
Betaherpesvirinae
, such as human cytomegalovirus (genus
Cytomegalovirus
) and human herpesvirus 6A (genus
Roseolovirus
). Notable among these are 23 genes encoding type 3 membrane proteins containing seven transmembrane domains (the 7TM family) and seven genes encoding related type 2 membrane proteins (the EE50 family). The EE50 family appears to be under intense evolutionary selection, as it is highly diverged between the two genotypes, exhibits evidence of sequence duplications or deletions, and contains several fragmented genes. The availability of the genome sequences will facilitate future research on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of EEHV-associated disease.
EWSR1 Binds the Hepatitis C Virus
cis
-Acting Replication Element and Is Required for Efficient Viral Replication
Authors: Oakland Todd E. , Haselton Kyle J. , Randall Glenn
Published: April 2013

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) genome contains numerous RNA elements that are required for its replication. Most of the identified RNA structures are located within the 5′ and 3′ untranslated regions (UTRs). One prominent RNA structure, termed the
cis
-acting replication element (CRE), is located within the NS5B coding region. Mutation of part of the CRE, the 5BSL3.2 stem-loop, impairs HCV RNA replication. This loop has been implicated in a kissing interaction with a complementary stem-loop structure in the 3′ UTR. Although it is clear that this interaction is required for viral replication, the function of the interaction, and its regulation are unknown. In order to gain insight into the CRE function, we isolated cellular proteins that preferentially bind the CRE and identified them using mass spectrometry. This approach identified EWSR1 as a CRE-binding protein. Silencing EWSR1 expression impairs HCV replication and infectious virus production but not translation. While EWRS1 is a shuttling protein that is extensively nuclear in hepatocytes, substantial amounts of EWSR1 localize to the cytosol in HCV-infected cells and colocalize with sites of HCV replication. A subset of EWRS1 translocates into detergent-resistant membrane fractions, which contain the viral replicase proteins, in cells with replicating HCV. EWSR1 directly binds the CRE, and this is dependent on the intact CRE structure. Finally, EWSR1 preferentially interacts with the CRE in the absence of the kissing interaction. This study implicates EWSR1 as a novel modulator of CRE function in HCV replication.
Toscana Virus NSs Protein Inhibits the Induction of Type I Interferon by Interacting with RIG-I
Authors: Gori-Savellini Gianni , Valentini Melissa , Cusi Maria Grazia
Published: April 2013

Toscana virus (TOSV) is a phlebovirus, of the
Bunyaviridae
family, that is responsible for central nervous system (CNS) injury in humans. Previous data have shown that the TOSV NSs protein is a gamma interferon (IFN-β) antagonist when transiently overexpressed in mammalian cells, inhibiting IRF-3 induction (G. Gori Savellini, F. Weber, C. Terrosi, M. Habjan, B. Martorelli, and M. G. Cusi, J. Gen. Virol.
92:
71–79, 2011). In this study, we investigated whether an upstream sensor, which has a role in the signaling cascade leading to the production of type I IFN, was involved. We found a significant decrease in RIG-I protein levels in cells overexpressing TOSV NSs, suggesting that the nonstructural protein interacts with RIG-I and targets it for proteasomal degradation. In fact, the MG-132 proteasome inhibitor was able to restore IFN-β promoter activation in cells expressing NSs, demonstrating the existence of an evasion mechanism based on inhibition of the RIG-I sensor. Furthermore, a C-terminal truncated NSs protein (ΔNSs), although able to interact with RIG-I, did not affect the RIG-I-mediated IFN-β promoter activation, suggesting that the NSs domains responsible for RIG-I-mediated signaling and interaction with RIG-I are mapped on different regions. These results contribute to identify a novel mechanism for bunyaviruses by which TOSV NSs counteracts the early IFN response.
Ets-1 Is Required for the Activation of VEGFR3 during Latent Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus Infection of Endothelial Cells
Authors: Gutierrez Kimberley D. , Morris Valerie A. , Wu David , Barcy Serge , Lagunoff Michael
Published: April 2013

Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), the etiologic agent of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), is present in the predominant tumor cells of KS, the spindle cells. Spindle cells express markers of lymphatic endothelium and, interestingly, KSHV infection of blood endothelial cells reprograms them to a lymphatic endothelial cell phenotype. KSHV-induced reprogramming requires the activation of STAT3 and phosphatidylinositol 3 (PI3)/AKT through the activation of cellular receptor gp130. Importantly, KSHV-induced reprogramming is specific to endothelial cells, indicating that there are additional host genes that are differentially regulated during KSHV infection of endothelial cells that contribute to lymphatic reprogramming. We found that the transcription factor Ets-1 is highly expressed in KS spindle cells and is upregulated during KSHV infection of endothelial cells in culture. The KSHV latent vFLIP gene is sufficient to induce Ets-1 expression in an NF-κB-dependent fashion. Ets-1 is required for KSHV-induced expression of VEGFR3, a lymphatic endothelial-cell-specific receptor important for lymphangiogenesis, and Ets-1 activates the promoter of VEGFR3. Ets-1 knockdown does not alter the expression of another lymphatic-specific gene, the podoplanin gene, but does inhibit the expression of VEGFR3 in uninfected lymphatic endothelium, indicating that Ets-1 is a novel cellular regulator of VEGFR3 expression. Knockdown of Ets-1 affects the ability of KSHV-infected cells to display angiogenic phenotypes, indicating that Ets-1 plays a role in KSHV activation of endothelial cells during latent KSHV infection. Thus, Ets-1 is a novel regulator of VEGFR3 and is involved in the induction of angiogenic phenotypes by KSHV.
Nuclear Transport of Epstein-Barr Virus DNA Polymerase Is Dependent on the BMRF1 Polymerase Processivity Factor and Molecular Chaperone Hsp90
Authors: Kawashima Daisuke , Kanda Teru , Murata Takayuki , Saito Shinichi , Sugimoto Atsuko , Narita Yohei , Tsurumi Tatsuya
Published: April 2013

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) replication proteins are transported into the nucleus to synthesize viral genomes. We here report molecular mechanisms for nuclear transport of EBV DNA polymerase. The EBV DNA polymerase catalytic subunit BALF5 was found to accumulate in the cytoplasm when expressed alone, while the EBV DNA polymerase processivity factor BMRF1 moved into the nucleus by itself. Coexpression of both proteins, however, resulted in efficient nuclear transport of BALF5. Deletion of the nuclear localization signal of BMRF1 diminished the proteins' nuclear transport, although both proteins can still interact. These results suggest that BALF5 interacts with BMRF1 to effect transport into the nucleus. Interestingly, we found that Hsp90 inhibitors or knockdown of Hsp90β with short hairpin RNA prevented the BALF5 nuclear transport, even in the presence of BMRF1, both in transfection assays and in the context of lytic replication. Immunoprecipitation analyses suggested that the molecular chaperone Hsp90 interacts with BALF5. Treatment with Hsp90 inhibitors blocked viral DNA replication almost completely during lytic infection, and knockdown of Hsp90β reduced viral genome synthesis. Collectively, we speculate that Hsp90 interacts with BALF5 in the cytoplasm to assist complex formation with BMRF1, leading to nuclear transport. Hsp90 inhibitors may be useful for therapy for EBV-associated diseases in the future.
Three-Dimensional Architecture of Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus Replication Sites and Trafficking of the Replicated RNA
Authors: Miorin Lisa , Romero-Brey Inés , Maiuri Paolo , Hoppe Simone , Krijnse-Locker Jacomine , Bartenschlager Ralf , Marcello Alessandro
Published: April 2013

Flavivirus replication is accompanied by the rearrangement of cellular membranes that may facilitate viral genome replication and protect viral components from host cell responses. The topological organization of viral replication sites and the fate of replicated viral RNA are not fully understood. We exploited electron microscopy to map the organization of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) replication compartments in infected cells and in cells transfected with a replicon. Under both conditions, 80-nm vesicles were seen within the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) that in infected cells also contained virions. By electron tomography, the vesicles appeared as invaginations of the ER membrane, displaying a pore that could enable release of newly synthesized viral RNA into the cytoplasm. To track the fate of TBEV RNA, we took advantage of our recently developed method of viral RNA fluorescent tagging for live-cell imaging combined with bleaching techniques. TBEV RNA was found outside virus-induced vesicles either associated to ER membranes or free to move within a defined area of juxtaposed ER cisternae. From our results, we propose a biologically relevant model of the possible topological organization of flavivirus replication compartments composed of replication vesicles and a confined extravesicular space where replicated viral RNA is retained. Hence, TBEV modifies the ER membrane architecture to provide a protected environment for viral replication and for the maintenance of newly replicated RNA available for subsequent steps of the virus life cycle.
Geomorphology and land-use decisions in Maine
Authors: Koons Donaldson
Published: April 2013

Maine is under increasingly heavy pressure to permit development that may include deep-water ports and associated oil terminal and refining facilities, coastal and inland water-oriented recreational housing, and ski-related resorts. The state is 90 percent forested, sparsely populated, and historically penurious in acquisition of inventory data on natural resources. Wildlands of the Unorganized Towns, comprising 17,000 mi2, are almost entirely privately owned.

Three major statutes control developments within the state: site selection, applied statewide to major developments of 20 acres or more; wildland zoning, applied to the Unorganized Towns; and shoreland zoning, applied to areas 250 ft from lakes, streams, and coastal waters. Physical data are frequently unavailable for preliminary assessments, but geomorphologists can derive much of the necessary information from aerial photographs, geologic maps, topographic maps, and field inspections.

Quaternary events, including late Pleistocene glaciation, partial submergence, subsequent emergence, and dissection by four major river systems have established the landforms of Maine. Significant stratigraphic units are end- and ground-moraine complexes, the composition of which closely reflects bedrock character, ranging from sand with granitic boulders to fine-grained, plastic, bouldery clay; ice-contact features, including eskers, kames, kame terraces, and deltas; outwash, shore and beach deposits, and dune fields; and marine clays. These units, with their distinctive properties and limitations for building construction, roads, and waste disposal, are readily identified by the geomorphologist, whose information then provides the basis for first-level land-use decisions.
Beacon Hill end moraine, Boston: New explanation of an important urban feature
Authors: Kaye Clifford A.
Published: April 2013

The usefulness of geology to engineers is in direct proportion to how well it helps us predict the subsurface; these predictions, in turn, depend on our knowledge of the geomorphic processes that molded the terrain. The uncertainties of interpretation are particularly great in glaciated terrain because our understanding of both glacial processes and history is so incomplete, a fact well illustrated in Beacon Hill. Recent construction activities in the eastern part of the hill, until now classified as a drumlin, have shown that it is better interpreted as an end moraine formed by a Wisconsinan glacial readvance. Instead of the firm till that was anticipated as foundation material, excavations exposed a complex of sand, gravel, and clay, with only minor zones of till. The structure of these deposits strongly suggests that originally they were plates of the glacial bed that froze to the glacier and were transported englacially. Thrust faulting and other deformations are glacial structures formed within the ice in the glacier’s terminal zone. In spite of the complex englacial history, these deposits lost little of their original appearance and intergranular relationships. Upon deglaciation, the frozen moraine thawed, and slumping formed complex secondary structures on the ridge’s lower flanks.
Chilean, Argentine, and Bolivian coals
Authors: Flores-Williams Hector
Published: April 2013

The coal-bearing strata of Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile crop out along the flanks of the Andes Mountains. Carboniferous coals are known in Argentina from the provinces of San Juan, Mendoza, Neuquén, and Chubut. The Middle and Upper Carboniferous coals are anthracite. Permian coals are known from the provinces of Córdoba, San Juan, Mendoza, and Chubut in Argentina; from the vicinity of Lake Titicaca in Bolivia; and from La Ternera and Quilacoya in Chile. The Permian coals also are anthracites. However, numerous faults and folds, a high ash content, and the limited extent of the coal-bearing basins make these Paleozoic coals of little economic interest. The same is true of the Mesozoic coals that are known from Argentina in the provinces of San Juan, Mendoza, and Neuquén.

The only important and commercial coal deposits from this three-country region are Tertiary coals in Argentina and Chile. In Chile the proved and probable bituminous coal resources total about 100 million metric tons, most of which is in the Eocene Arauco basin, which contains the best-quality coal in Chile. The calorific value of the best of this coal is 13,500 Btu/lb. The Oligocene subbituminous coals of the Magallanes basin in Chile are considered to be one of the largest reserves in South America — calculated to be 5,400 million metric tons. This is in addition to the 380 million metric tons of reserve in the Argentine Río Turbio coal deposits. The Magallanes and Río Turbio coals have a high ash content and a calorific value of 8,500 Btu/lb.
Coal resources of the Argentine Republic
Authors: Bergmann Federico A. J.
Published: April 2013

In general, the coal deposits of Argentina fall into four groups on the basis of their predominant geologic ages: Neogene, early Tertiary, Jurassic, and Triassic. These four groups are related to the tectonic and stratigraphic framework of the country.

Neogene coals are mainly allochthonous lignitic coals of limnic origin; they have large amounts of ash. Predominating in the deposits of early Tertiary age are subbituminous, high-volatile coals of both limnic and paralic origins, locally with some coking properties. The Jurassic and Triassic provinces have bituminous coals with agglomerating and coking properties. The Jurassic coals were deposited mainly in a paralic environment; the Triassic coal-bearing strata mainly represent a limnic environment.

A total reserve of 483,921,000 metric tons is estimated on the basis of very scanty data. Only the Paleogene Río Turbio and Pico Quemado deposits of southern Argentina have been studied in some detail. The coal-bearing early Tertiary Río Turbio deposit contains 99 percent of Argentina’s established reserve.

Increased study of the Argentine coals will be pursued as a result of the world energy crisis. It is hoped that much larger reserves than those currently known will be established. During 1974, a total of 625,647 metric tons was produced, and it is hoped that production will be increased to 3,000,000 metric tons peryear.
Coal basins of Ecuador
Authors: O’Rourke J. E.
Published: April 2013

The coal deposits of southern Ecuador are in remnants of Tertiary basins now perched in topographic basins at elevations of 2,000 to 3,000 m. Recent mapping suggests that undisturbed coal beds may underlie broad areas, but they will remain untouched because the cover is thick. The known seams, exposed in narrow faulted belts, are steep, disrupted, and shattered. They are as thick as 5 m and contain mostly subbituminous coal and lignite, but have objectional amounts of shale, bentonite, and pyrite. Reserves in the exposed seams of the Malacatus and Loja basins are said to be roughly 1 million metric tons each; in the Cañar-Azuay basin, the reserves are said to be roughly 20 million metric tons. Little of this can be considered economically mineable, however, because an attempt at semimechanized underground mining was unsuccessful. Subterranean gasification may be required.
Coal deposits of Latin America
Authors: Olive Wilds W.
Published: April 2013

Commercial coal deposits ranging in rank from lignite to anthracite are present in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, and Venezuela. Some of the bituminous coal is weakly coking. The commercial deposits are of Triassic, Jurassic, Cretaceous, and Tertiary ages, except those in Brazil, which are of Pennsylvanian and Permian ages. Most coal beds are less than 3 m thick, but some are as much as 5 to 8 m thick. Much of the coal in Brazil and Mexico occurs in flat-lying or gently dipping rocks. In the other countries, the coal beds commonly are folded and faulted and at places are intruded by igneous rocks associated with the Andean uplift.

Rough estimates based on available data indicate that the largest coal resources, about 10 billion metric tons, are in Columbia. Resources in Brazil, Venezuela, Mexico, and Chile are estimated at more than 1 billion metric tons for each country, and in Argentina and Peru, resources amount to more than 250 million metric tons for each country. Detailed geologic investigations are needed to provide a basis for more meaningful estimates.

During 1973, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Mexico each produced more than 3 million metric tons, dominantly of bituminous coal. Imported coal consisted almost entirely of low-volatile bituminous coal, which was blended with domestic coal to manufacture coke. Very little coal was exported.
Coal resources in Central America
Authors: Bohnenberger Otto H. , Dengo Gabriel
Published: April 2013

A review of the available information on carbonaceous sedimentary rocks in the republics of Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama reveals the presence of coal and lignite beds, but no commercial production has been developed in any of these countries. The oldest coal beds, with thicknesses up to 2.5 m, crop out in central Honduras in at least six localities. They are interbeds in the argillaceous Triassic-Jurassic(?) El Plan Formation. This unit is strongly folded and faulted and in some places is intruded by dioritic plutons. The outcrops—in Yoro Department, Honduras—appear to be less deformed.

In west-central Guatemala, near the border with Chiapas State, Mexico, coal beds are reported that possibly are correlatable with the El Plan Formation. Thin lignite beds in Cretaceous carbonate rocks in Guatemala do not seem to be important.

In Panama, Costa Rica, and Guatemala, many different lignite beds, some more than 1 m thick, are reported in argillaceous and sandy Miocene strata. In Panama, these lignite beds occur in the Gatún Formation, whereas in the Izabal region of Guatemala, they are associated with beds of Miocene to Pliocene age. In most places, these Tertiary rocks are folded and faulted. They were evaluated in Izabal by a private mining company in 1968. Associated with sedimentary rocks of volcanic origin and probably of Pliocene to Pleistocene age, many thin lignite beds of local extent are found in intermontane basins of the volcanic provinces of the Central American countries. Only a few localities could attain importance for mining for local consumption.
Guillain-Barre syndrome in an adult patient with Henoch-Schonlein purpura
Authors: Aggarwal Puneet , Sahoo Ratnakar , Gadpayle A K , Kumar Gunjan
Published: April 2013

A 42-year-old man presented with pain in the abdomen, massive haematemesis and rashes over the body and development of bilateral lower limb weakness the next day. The patient was later diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome with Henoch-Schonlein purpura. He was treated with intravenous immunoglobulins. At 3 months of follow-up and rehabilitation, patient showed complete recovery from weakness.
Andersson lesion in ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Dhakad Urmila , Das Siddharth K
Published: April 2013

A middle-aged male patient developed acute back pain and a lumbar vertebral lesion following trivial physical trauma. The lesion was considered as tuberculous on vertebral x-rays and MRI. After biopsy of the lesion and spinal fixation, the patient was kept on empirical antituberculous treatment (ATT) to which he did not respond. On re-evaluation he was diagnosed to have an Andersson lesion in ankylosing spondylitis (AS). ATT was stopped and he was successfully managed by rest, steroids, methotrexate and sulfasalazine. A careful look at the patient’s plain x-ray spine and awareness about the lesion can avoid misdiagnosis of this characteristic vertebral lesion found in AS.
Septic shock caused byElizabethkingia meningoseptica: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Jung Su Hyeon , Lee Boeun , Mirrakhimov Aibek E , Hussain Nasir
Published: April 2013

A 70-year-old woman, resident of a nursing home presented with complaints of fever for 1 day. Initial history, physical examination and laboratory tests were consistent with the diagnosis of systemic inflammatory response syndrome; blood culture from peripheral and central perm catheter were sent. Patient was started on empiric antibiotics and aggressive hydration. Blood cultures from peripheral access and central perm catheter grewElisabethkingia meningosepticaon the second day. Patient was transferred to the intensive care unit for septic shock where patient needed vasopressors. Antibiotics were switched to intravenous trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, perm catheter was removed and catheter tip culture was sent. Catheter tip grewE meningoseptica(45 colony forming units). Patient showed excellent treatment response to intravenous trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and was weaned off pressors on day 4 with uneventful stay afterwards.
Changes in geosynthetic clay liner (GCL) properties after 2 years in a cover over arsenic-rich tailings
Authors: Hosney M.S. , Rowe R. Kerry
Published: April 2013

A test cover comprised of three different needle-punched geosynthetic clay liner (GCL) products and covered with up to 1 m of cover soil (gravelly sand) was built over arsenic-rich tailings at a former gold mine in Nova Scotia, Canada, to evaluate the performance of the GCLs under local climatic conditions. Of the GCLs examined, one had untreated and two had polymer-enhanced natural sodium bentonite. The three GCLs each had different carriers: one with a woven geotextile, one with a scrim-reinforced nonwoven geotextile, and one with a woven geotextile laminated with a polypropylene film. At some locations, each type of GCL was placed in direct contact with the tailings. At other locations, each GCL was separated from the tailings by 0.15 m of cover soil. Samples of each GCL, tailings, and cover soil were recovered 1 and 2 years after construction. Tests show that the GCL with untreated bentonite maintained a low hydraulic conductivity (≤5 × 10−11 m/s) at locations where there was ≥0.7 m of cover soil above the GCL even though there was significant cation exchange of the sodium in the GCL with divalent cations in the tailings-soil porewater (the mole fraction of sodium (exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP)) decreased from 65% to 10%–17%). The GCL with polymer-enhanced bentonite had a lower hydraulic conductivity (≤3 × 10−11 m/s under ≥0.7 m of cover soil above the GCL) and experienced less cation exchange (ESP decreased to 19%–28%) than the standard GCL. The other GCL with polymer-enhanced bentonite and a carrier geotextile coated with a geofilm demonstrated the best hydraulic performance regardless of the thickness of cover soil or presence of an initially uncontaminated foundation layer. The presence of a foundation layer between the GCL and tailings impeded the migration of arsenic from the tailings into the GCLs. All GCLs were serving as an effective barrier to arsenic migration.
Instability of statolith elemental signatures revealed in newly metamorphosed sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus)
Authors: Lochet Aude , Marsden J. Ellen , Fryer Brian J. , Ludsin Stuart A.
Published: April 2013

Techniques that use calcified structures to identify the natal origin of organisms assume that reworking of previously deposited material does not occur. While verified for otoliths, this assumption remains unverified for statoliths. Herein, we test the stability of sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) statolith microchemistry during metamorphosis. Using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, we quantified the concentrations of nine elements in statoliths from sea lamprey larvae (n = 118) and newly metamorphosed (n = 115) individuals that were collected across six tributaries of varying alkalinity in the Laurentian Great Lakes and Lake Champlain basins. In newly metamorphosed individuals from all streams, the portion of the statolith deposited during the larval stage was enriched in rubidium (Rb), strongly suggesting a chemical reworking of statoliths during metamorphosis. As the ability to discriminate among sea lamprey from different streams in the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain mostly relies on premetamorphic levels of Rb, strategies for the use of statoliths to identify the natal origin of sea lamprey parasitic juveniles and spawners (postmetamorphic stages) should take into account the chemical changes associated with metamorphosis.
IMPACT OF SOFTWARE COMPLEXITY ON DEVELOPMENT PRODUCTIVITY
Authors: ZHAN JIZHOU , ZHOU XIANZHONG , ZHAO JIABAO
Published: April 2013

With increasing demands on software functions, software systems become more and more complex. This complexity is one of the most pervasive factors affecting software development productivity. Assessing the impact of software complexity on development productivity helps to provide effective strategies for development process and project management. Previous research literatures have suggested that development productivity declines exponentially with software complexity. Borrowing insights from cognitive learning psychology and behavior theory, the relationship between software complexity and development productivity was reexamined in this paper. This research identified that the relationship partially showed a U-shaped as well as an inverted U-shaped curvilinear tendency. Furthermore, the range of complexity level that is beneficial for productivity has been presented, in which, the lower bound denotes the minimum degree of complexity at which personnel can be motivated, while the upper bound shows the maximum extent of complexity that staff can endure. Based on our findings, some guidelines for improving personnel management of software industry have also been given.
IMPERFECTION SENSITIVITY AND RELIABILITY USING SIMPLE BAR-SPRING MODELS FOR STABILITY
Authors: MEIMAND VAHID ZEINODDINI , GRAHAM-BRADY LORI , SCHAFER BENJAMIN WILLIAM
Published: April 2013

The objective of this paper is to demonstrate how simple bar-spring models can illustrate elementary and advanced structural behavior, including stability, imperfection sensitivity, and plastic collapse. In addition, the same bar-spring models also provide a ready means for assessing structural reliability. Bar-spring models for a column (both post-buckling stable and unstable), a frame, and a plate are all developed. For each model the influence of geometric imperfections are explicitly introduced and the ultimate strength considering plastic collapse of the supporting springs derived. The developed expressions are compared to material and geometric nonlinear finite element analysis models of analogous continuous systems, using yield surface based plastic hinge beam elements (in MASTAN) for the column and frame and shell elements (in ABAQUS) for the plate. The results show excellent qualitative agreement, and surprisingly good quantitative agreement. The developed bar-spring models are used in Monte Carlo simulations and in the development of first order Taylor Series approximations to provide the statistics of the ultimate strength as used in structural reliability calculations. Good agreement between conventional first order second moment assumptions and the Monte Carlo simulations of the bar-spring models is demonstrated. It is intended that the developed models provide a useful illustration of basic concepts central to structural stability and structural reliability.
INVESTIGATION OF IN-ORBIT DISTURBING LOADS INDUCED ON SPACECRAFT DUE TO ELASTIC DEPLOYING ARM
Authors: GHALEH P. BAGHERI , MALAEK S. M.
Published: April 2013

The loads induced on the spacecraft orbiting the Earth by the deploying elastic arm are investigated. The coupled equations of motion of the arm with the vehicle orbital mechanics are used to describe the 3D dynamic behavior of the flexible-appendage and the related disturbing loads induced on the spacecraft. To this end, an equivalent dynamical system is derived for the arm by applying an attached Non-Newtonian Reference Frame which is subjected to the orbital motion and geocentric pointing maneuver of the spacecraft. With the help of the Assumed Modes Method, the behavior of the arm attached to the spacecraft in Keplerian orbits is studied. The results show that deploying the arm in some specific directions relative to the orbital plane leads to serious coupling between two lateral displacements. In addition, the effects of specific orbital parameters on arm responses and resulting induced loads are studied for the cases of "True Anomaly of spacecraft at deployment time, and Eccentricity of elliptical orbits". The prediction of disturbing loads induced on spacecraft helps design the robust attitude control system. Further, the positioning accuracy of the payloads (installed on the arm-tip) can be estimated by employing the obtained arm responses in the orbital motion, which enables us to determine the undesirable motions and predict any required control system for the arm.
VIBRATION-BASED STRUCTURAL DAMAGE DETECTION UNDER VARYING TEMPERATURE CONDITIONS
Authors: ZHOU XIAO-QING , HUANG WEN
Published: April 2013

In vibration-based structural damage detection, it is necessary to discriminate the variation of structural properties due to environmental changes from those caused by structural damages. The present paper aims to investigate the temperature effect on vibration-based structural damage detection in which the vibration data are measured under varying temperature conditions. A simply-supported slab was tested in laboratory to extract the vibration properties with modal testing. The slab was then damaged and the modal testing was conducted again, in which the temperature varied. The modal data measured under different temperature conditions were used to detect the damage with a two-stage model updating technique. Some damage was falsely detected if the temperature variation was not considered. Natural frequencies were then corrected to those under the same temperature conditions according to the relation between the temperature and material modulus. It is shown that all of the damaged elements can be accurately identified.
3D DYNAMIC ANALYSIS OF A FLEXIBLE DEPLOYING ARM SUBJECTED TO BASE ANGULAR MOTIONS
Authors: GHALEH P. BAGHERI , MALAEK S.M.
Published: April 2013

Problems related to the three-dimensional (3D) dynamics of the deploying flexible arms subjected to base angular motions are studied with simulated tip payloads and actual deployment trajectories. To facilitate the solution, an equivalent dynamical system is developed by introducing the inertial reaction forces on the arm, while the equations of motion are derived in the non-Newtonian reference frame attached to the arm. The dynamic behavior of the arm is investigated both by the finite element and assumed Modes methods for the purpose of verification. This study reveals that base angular motions lead to considerable couplings between the two lateral displacements and axial motions. Meanwhile, the induced loadings on the flexible arm due to the base angular motions are obtained, which are useful for the design of more efficient arms. Furthermore, one may use the resulting arm–tip position envelop to predict the antenna positioning accuracy, which paves the way for possible control systems to limit undesirable motions.
ANALYSIS OF PEAK PRESSURE, MAXIMAL FORCE, AND CONTACT AREA CHANGES DURING WALKING AND RUNNING WITH CONVENTIONAL AND SHOCK-ABSORBING INSOLES IN THE COMBAT BOOTS OF THE CZECH ARMY
Authors: GERYCH DAVID , TVRZNIK ALES , PROKESOVA EVA , NEMECKOVA ZUZANA , JELEN KAREL
Published: April 2013

The aim of this study was to determine changes of peak pressure, maximal force, and contact area in five foot regions with two different insoles during walking and running, thereby obtaining data contributing to optimization of footwear and reduction of lower leg injury.

Twenty-six male soldiers participated in the study. Peak pressure, maximal force, and contact area were measured in five foot regions (lateral and medial heel, midfoot, lateral and medial forefoot, big toe, and toes 2, 3, 4, and 5) with two different insoles (conventional vs. custom molded shock-absorbing insoles) during a walking speed of 5 km/h and running speeds of 8 and 12 km/h using the Pedar-X tensometric system (Novel, St. Paul, MN). Measurements revealed that the shock-absorbing insoles significantly (p < 0.05) attenuated the peak pressures in heel and forefoot region and increased the contact area in the midfoot region which indicates a successful redistribution of forces that arise during the contact phase in walking and running. Shock-absorbing insoles hence may contribute to better plantar pressure distribution during walking and running, and effectively prevent lower leg injuries.
A corticotropin-releasing factor receptor antagonist improves urodynamic dysfunction produced by social stress or partial bladder outlet obstruction in male rats
Authors: Wood Susan K. , McFadden Kile , Griffin Tagan , Wolfe John H. , Zderic Stephen , Valentino Rita J.
Published: April 2013

Barrington's nucleus, in the pons, regulates micturition through spinal projections to preganglionic parasympathetic neurons. The stress neuropeptide CRF is prominent in these projections and has an inhibitory influence. Social stress in rats causes urinary retention and abnormal urodynamics resembling those produced by partial bladder outlet obstruction (pBOO), and this is associated with CRF upregulation in Barrington's nucleus. Here, we examined the role of CRF in social stress- and pBOO-induced urodynamic dysfunction by assessing the ability of a CRF1 receptor antagonist to alter these effects. Male rats exposed to repeated resident-intruder stress were administered vehicle or a CRF1 antagonist (NBI-30775) daily prior to the stress. Urodynamic function was recorded in the unanesthetized state 72 h after the final stress. NBI-30775 prevented the increased intermicturition interval, micturition volume, and bladder capacity produced by social stress, but not the increase in CRF expression in Barrington's nucleus neurons. The urinary dysfunction was also partly prevented by shRNA targeting of CRF in Barrington's nucleus, suggesting that stress-induced urinary dysfunction results, in part, from CRF upregulation in Barrington's nucleus and enhanced postsynaptic effects in the spinal cord. Finally, NBI-30775 improved urodynamic function of rats that had pBOO of 2-wk duration when administered daily during the second week but did not block the increase in CRF expression in Barrington's nucleus neurons. These findings implicate a role for Barrington's nucleus CRF in stress- and pBOO-induced urodynamic changes and suggest that CRF1 antagonists may be useful therapeutic agents for the treatment of urinary dysfunction.
Motor unit rate coding is severely impaired during forceful and fast muscular contractions in individuals post stroke
Authors: Chou Li-Wei , Palmer Jacqueline A. , Binder-Macleod Stuart , Knight Christopher A.
Published: April 2013

Information regarding how motor units are controlled to produce forces in individuals with stroke and the mechanisms behind muscle weakness and movement slowness can potentially inform rehabilitation strategies. The purpose of this study was to describe the rate coding mechanism in individuals poststroke during both constant ( n = 8) and rapid ( n = 4) force production tasks. Isometric ankle dorsiflexion force, motor unit action potentials, and surface electromyography were recorded from the paretic and nonparetic tibialis anterior. In the paretic limb, strength was 38% less and the rate of force development was 63% slower. Linear regression was used to describe and compare the relationships between motor unit and electromyogram (EMG) measures and force. During constant force contractions up to 80% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), rate coding was compressed and discharge rates were lower in the paretic limb. During rapid muscle contractions up to 90% MVC, the first interspike interval was prolonged and the rate of EMG rise was less in the paretic limb. Future rehabilitation strategies for individuals with stroke could focus on regaining these specific aspects of motor unit rate coding and neuromuscular activation.
Research Progress in the Mechanism of Effect of PRP in Bone Deficiency Healing
Authors: Zhang Ning , Wu Yong-Ping , Qian Sheng-Jun , Teng Chong , Chen Shuai , Li Hang
Published: April 2013

Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a recently developed technique that uses a concentrated portion of autologous blood to try to improve and accelerate the healing of various tissues. There is a considerable interest in using these PRP products for the treatment used in bone deficiency healing. Because PRP products are safe and easy to prepare and administer, there has been increased attention toward using PRP in numerous clinical settings. The benefits of PRP therapy appear to be promising, and many investigators are exploring the ways in which this therapy can be used in the clinical setting. At present, the molecular mechanisms of bone defect repair studies have focused on three aspects of the inflammatory cytokines, growth factors and angiogenic factors. The role of PRP works mainly through these three aspects of bone repair. The purpose of this paper is to review the current evidence on the mechanism of the effect of PRP in bone deficiency healing.
Plantago ovata F. Mucilage-Alginate Mucoadhesive Beads for Controlled Release of Glibenclamide: Development, Optimization, and In Vitro-In Vivo Evaluation
Authors: Nayak Amit Kumar , Pal Dilipkumar , Santra Kousik
Published: April 2013

The current study deals with the development and optimization of ispaghula (Plantago ovata F.) husk mucilage- (IHM-) alginate mucoadhesive beads containing glibenclamide by ionotropic gelation technique. The effects of sodium alginate (SA) to IHM and cross-linker (CaCl2) concentration on the drug encapsulation efficiency (DEE, %), as well as cumulative drug release after 10 hours (R10 h, %), were optimized using 32 factorial design based on response surface methodology. The observed responses were coincided well with the predicted values by the experimental design. The optimized mucoadhesive beads exhibited 94.43±4.80% w/w of DEE and good mucoadhesivity with the biological membrane in wash-off test and sustained drug release profile over 10 hours. The beads were also characterized by SEM and FTIR analyses. The in vitro drug release from these beads was followed by controlled release (zero-order) pattern with super case-II transport mechanism. The optimized glibenclamide-loaded IHM-alginate mucoadhesive beads showed significant antidiabetic effect in alloxan-induced diabetic rats over prolonged period after oral administration.
Mapping Global Solar Radiation from Long-Term Satellite Data in the Tropics Using an Improved Model
Authors: Janjai S. , Masiri I. , Pattarapanitchai S. , Laksanaboonsong J.
Published: April 2013

This paper presents an improved model and its application for mapping global solar radiation from satellite data in the tropics. The model provides a more complete description of the absorption and scattering of solar radiation in the earth-atmosphere system as compared to the earlier models. The study is conducted in the tropical environment of Thailand. Digital data from the visible channel of GMS4, GMS5, GOES9, and MTSAT-1R satellites collected during a 15-year period (1995–2009) are used as a main input to the model. Satellite gray levels are converted into earth-atmospheric reflectivity and used to estimate the cloud effect. The absorption of solar radiation due to water vapour is computed from precipitable water derived from ambient temperature and relative humidity. The total ozone column data from TOMS/EP and OMI/AURA satellites are used to compute solar radiation absorption by ozone. The depletion of solar radiation due to aerosol is estimated from visibility data. In order to test its performance, the model is employed to calculate monthly average daily global solar radiation at 36 solar monitoring stations across the country. It is found that solar radiation calculated from the model and that obtained from the measurement are in good agreement, with a root mean square difference of 5.3% and a mean bias difference of 0.3%. The model is used to calculate the monthly average daily global solar radiation over the entire country, and results are displayed as monthly and yearly maps. These maps reveal that the geographical distribution of solar radiation in Thailand is strongly influenced by the tropical monsoons and local geographical features.
Rifaximin versus Nonabsorbable Disaccharides for the Treatment of Hepatic Encephalopathy: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wu Dong , Wu Shu-Mei , Lu Jie , Zhou Ying-Qun , Xu Ling , Guo Chuan-Yong
Published: April 2013

Background. Many studies have found that the antibiotic rifaximin is effective for the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy. However, there is no uniform view on the efficacy and safety of rifaximin.Methods. We performed a meta-analysis through electronic searches to evaluate the efficacy and safety of rifaximin in comparison with nonabsorbable disaccharides.Results. A total of 8 randomized controlled trials including 407 patients were included. The efficacy of rifaximin was equivalent to nonabsorbable disaccharides according to the statistical data (risk ratio (RR): 1.06, 95% CI: 0.94–1.19;P=0.34). Analysis showed that patients treated with rifaximin had better results in serum ammonia levels (weighted mean difference (WMD): −10.63, 95% CI: −30.63–9.38;P=0.30), mental status (WMD: −0.32, 95% CI: −0.67–0.03;P=0.07), asterixis (WMD: −0.12, 95% CI: −0.31–0.08;P=0.23), electroencephalogram response (WMD: −0.21, 95% CI: −0.34–−0.09;P=0.0007), and grades of portosystemic encephalopathy (WMD: −2.30, 95% CI: −2.78–−1.82;P<0.00001), but only the last ones had statistical significance. The safety of rifaximin was better than nonabsorbable disaccharides (RR: 0.19, 95% CI: 0.10–0.34;P<0.00001).Conclusion. Rifaximin is at least as effective as nonabsorbable disaccharides, maybe better for the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy. And the safety of rifaximin is better.
Analysis and Design Optimization of a Compact and Lightweight Joint Torque Sensor for Space Manipulators
Authors: Wei Nanzhe , Sun Hanxu , Jia Qingxuan , Ji Xue , Shi Hanlin
Published: April 2013

This paper describes the development of a compact and lightweight joint torque sensor for space manipulators. Space manipulators with torque sensors can not only apply force control approach to more precise and more dexterous space missions, but also monitor the occurrence of unpredicted events as accidental impacts with objects they have to manipulate. At present, most of the compact torque sensors, designed without consideration of space environment, cannot be directly used in space applications. In this paper, we propose a compact and lightweight design for the joint torque sensor based on strain gauge, for the reason of good physical, chemical, and mechanical stabilities under high temperature environment. In addition, to reduce the interferences by axial forces generated by assembling condition and joint motors, the structural optimization for the sensing element is carried out. The proposed design is simulated by FEM software ANSYS, and it shows successful measurements of the torque with a load capacity of 10 Nm, which is sufficient for the torque generated in robot joints. The effect of axial loading is also analyzed by ANSYS. The designed sensor is manufactured by duralumin alloy. The calibration for the sensor is carried out, and several experiments are conducted to ensure its feasibility with the space manipulator.
Mental Health Services Use Predicted by Number of Mental Health Problems and Gender in a Total Population Study
Authors: Posserud Maj-Britt , Lundervold Astri J.
Published: April 2013

We examined the relationship between service use and the number of problem areas as reported by parents and teachers on questionnaires among children aged 7–9 years old in the Bergen Child Study, a total population study including more than 9000 children. A problem area was counted as present if the child scored above the 95th percentile on parent and/or teacher questionnaire. A total number of 13 problem areas were included. Odd ratios (ORs) for contact with child and adolescent mental health services (CAMH), school psychology services (SPS), health visiting nurse/physician, and school support were calculated with gender as covariate. The number of symptom areas was highly predictive of service use, showing a dose‐response relationship for all services. Children scoring on ≥4 problem areas had a more than hundredfold risk of being in contact with CAMH services compared to children without problems. The mean number of problem areas for children in CAMH and SPS was 6.1 and 4.4 respectively, strongly supporting the ESSENCE model predicting multisymptomatology in children in specialized services. Even after controlling for number of problem areas, boys were twice as likely as girls to be in contact with CAMH, replicating previous findings of female gender being a strong barrier to mental health services.