bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of oilseed rape stem weevil chemical control using a damage rating scale
Authors: Milovac Željko , Zorić Miroslav , Franeta Filip , Terzić Sreten , Petrović Obradović Olivera , Marjanović Jeromela Ana
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

Rape stem weevil (Ceutorhynchus napiGyll.) and cabbage stem weevil (C. pallidactylusMarsh.) can cause significant yield losses to oilseed rape (Brassica napusL.), and chemical control is often needed to protect crops from these pests. The efficacy of six insecticides, chlorpyriphos + cypermethrin, bifenthrin, alpha‐cypermethrin, pirimiphos‐methyl, thiacloprid and tau‐fluvalinate, was tested in a 4 year field trial. Besides the standard efficacy analysis expressed through the number of larvae per stem, a damage rating scale was introduced and modelled using a regression model for ordinal categorical data.

RESULTS

Compared with the control, expressed through damage rating and larval number, treatments with chlorpyriphos + cypermethrin and bifenthrin, showed higher efficacy in the control of stem weevils compared with alpha‐cypermethrin and pirimiphos‐methyl. The lowest efficacy was observed in treatments with tau‐fluvalinate and thiacloprid.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that a combined efficacy evaluation expressed through both damage rating scale and the count of larvae, supported by an ordinal regression model for data analysis, is indispensable for obtaining accurate results. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Glyphosate resistance in Ambrosia trifida: Part 2. Rapid response physiology and non‐target‐site resistance
Authors: Moretti Marcelo L , Van Horn Christopher R , Robertson Renae , Segobye Kabelo , Weller Stephen C , Young Bryan G , Johnson William G , Douglas Sammons R , Wang Dafu , Ge Xia , d' Avignon André , Gaines Todd A , Westra Philip , Green Amanda C , Jeffery Taylor , Lespérance Mackenzie A , Tardif François J , Sikkema Peter H , Christopher Hall J , McLean Michael D , Lawton Mark B , Schulz Burkhard
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

The glyphosate‐resistant rapid response (GR RR) resistance mechanism in Ambrosia trifida is not due to target‐site resistance (TSR) mechanisms. This study explores the physiology of the rapid response and the possibility of reduced translocation and vacuolar sequestration as non‐target‐site resistance (NTSR) mechanisms.

RESULTS

GR RR leaf discs accumulated hydrogen peroxide within minutes of glyphosate exposure, but only in mature leaf tissue. The rapid response required energy either as light or exogenous sucrose. The combination of phenylalanine and tyrosine inhibited the rapid response in a dose‐dependent manner. Reduced glyphosate translocation was observed in GR RR, but only when associated with tissue death caused by the rapid response. Nuclear magnetic resonance studies indicated that glyphosate enters the cytoplasm and reaches chloroplasts, and it is not moved into the vacuole of GR RR, GR non‐rapid response or glyphosate‐susceptible A. trifida.

CONCLUSION

The GR RR mechanism of resistance is not associated with vacuole sequestration of glyphosate, and the observed reduced translocation is likely a consequence of rapid tissue death. Rapid cell death was inhibited by exogenous application of aromatic amino acids phenylalanine and tyrosine. The mechanism by which these amino acids inhibit rapid cell death in the GR RR phenotype remains unknown, and it could involve glyphosate phytotoxicity or other agents generating reactive oxygen species. Implications of these findings are discussed. The GR RR mechanism is distinct from the currently described glyphosate TSR or NTSR mechanisms in other species. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
A Polyphenol‐rich Pomegranate Fruit Extract Suppresses NF‐κB and IL‐6 Expression by Blocking the Activation of IKKβ and NIK in Primary Human Chondrocytes
Authors: Haseeb Abdul , Khan Nazir M. , Ashruf Omer S. , Haqqi Tariq M.
Published: March 2017

Pomegranate fruit extract (PE) rich in polyphenols has been shown to exert chondroprotective effects, but the mechanism is not established. Here, we used an in vitro model of inflammation in osteoarthritis (OA) to investigate the potential of PE to suppress interleukin 1 beta (IL‐1β)‐stimulated expression of inflammatory cytokine IL‐6, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and investigated the mechanism of NF‐κB inhibition by analyzing the activation of the kinases upstream of IκBα in primary human chondrocytes. Total and phosphorylated forms of kinases and expression of IL‐6 were determined at protein and mRNA levels by western immunoblotting and Taqman assay, respectively. Dihydrorhodamine 123 staining estimated ROS generation. Pomegranate fruit extract inhibited the mRNA and protein expression of IL‐6, generation of ROS, and inhibited the IL‐1β‐mediated phosphorylation of inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa‐B kinase subunit beta (IKKβ), expression of IKKβ mRNA, degradation of IκBα, and activation and nuclear translocation of NF‐κB/p65 in human chondrocytes. Importantly, phosphorylation of NF‐κB‐inducing kinase was blocked by PE in IL‐1β‐treated human OA chondrocytes. Taken together, these data suggest that PE exerts the chondroprotective effect(s) by suppressing the production of IL‐6 and ROS levels. Inhibition of NF‐κB activation by PE was blocked via modulation of activation of upstream kinases in human OA chondrocytes. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enhancing structural characterisation of glucuronidated O‐linked glycans using negative mode ion trap higher energy collision‐induced dissociation mass spectrometry
Authors: Ashwood Christopher , Abrahams Jodie L. , Nevalainen Helena , Packer Nicolle H.
Published: March 2017

Rationale

High protein production and secretion with eukaryotic glycosylation machinery make T. reesei RUT‐C30 a suitable expression host for recombinant proteins. The N‐glycosylation of secreted proteins of RUT‐C30 is known to vary depending on culture nutrients but O‐glycosylation has been less extensively studied.

Methods

O‐Glycans and glycopeptides from secreted proteins were separated by porous graphitised carbon and C‐18 liquid chromatography, respectively. O‐Glycans were analysed in negative ion mode by electrospray ionisation linear ion trap mass spectrometry and glycopeptides in positive ion mode by electrospray ionisation hybrid quadrupole‐orbitrap mass spectrometry. Tandem mass spectrometry was used on O‐glycans and glycopeptides including ion trap higher energy collision‐induced dissociation (tHCD) to detect glycan fragments not detectable with standard ion trap fragmentation. tHCD allowed targeted MS3 experiments to be performed on structures containing hexuronic acid, which was not possible with ion trap CID, validating this novel O‐glycan composition. Positive mode C18‐LC/ESI‐MS/MS was used to identify and characterise glycopeptides found to be modified with this class of O‐glycans, identifying cellobiohydrolase I as a carrier of these novel O‐glycans.

Results

Negative mode ion trap higher energy collision‐induced dissociation allowed detection and targeted MS3 experiments to be performed on the hexuronic acid substituent of O‐glycan structures, which was not possible with ion trap CID, validating the novel O‐glycan composition to include hexuronic acid. Using glycopeptide analysis, this novel O‐glycan composition was found to be present on the catalytic domain of cellobiohydrolase I, the most abundant secreted protein by T. reesei.

Conclusions

These are the first reported O‐glycans to contain acidic sugars in fungi and they could have significant implications for cellobiohydrolase I structure and activity as well as the activity of recombinant proteins expressed in this host system. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Formation Control of Agricultural Mobile Robots: A Bidirectional Weighted Constraints Approach
Authors: Guillet Audrey , Lenain Roland , Thuilot Benoit , Rousseau Vincent
Published: March 2017

This paper focuses on the formation control of several mobile robots in off‐road conditions. A control strategy based on bidirectional referencing is proposed, where each robot combines a velocity control w.r.t. the immediate preceding neighbor with a control w.r.t. the immediate following neighbor. Two virtual leaders, respectively, at the head and at the tail of the fleet, are propelling the fleet at the desired velocity. The fleet stability is investigated using Lyapunov techniques, pending on combination coefficients. The stability is theoretically proven for constant coefficients as weights of the respective velocity controls and tested through simulations and full‐scale experiments. It is shown that this control strategy permits us to reduce the error propagation problem often encountered in formation control, while limiting the communication problems of the global strategies. As a result, a stable formation control architecture is defined, which requires each vehicle to be refereed only to two other robots. This limited communication need is particularly interesting for agricultural operations. The proposed approach is implemented in this paper on agricultural tractors.
The ISWI ATPase Smarca5 (Snf2h) Is Required for Proliferation and Differentiation of Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells
Authors: Kokavec Juraj , Zikmund Tomas , Savvulidi Filipp , Kulvait Vojtech , Edelmann Winfried , Skoultchi Arthur I. , Stopka Tomas
Published: March 2017

The imitation switch nuclear ATPase Smarca5 (Snf2h) is one of the most conserved chromatin remodeling factors. It exists in a variety of oligosubunit complexes that move DNA with respect to the histone octamer to generate regularly spaced nucleosomal arrays. Smarca5 interacts with different accessory proteins and represents a molecular motor for DNA replication, repair, and transcription. We deleted Smarca5 at the onset of definitive hematopoiesis (Vav1-iCre) and observed that animals die during late fetal development due to anemia. Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells accumulated but their maturation toward erythroid and myeloid lineages was inhibited. Proerythroblasts were dysplastic while basophilic erythroblasts were blocked in G2/M and depleted. Smarca5 deficiency led to increased p53 levels, its activation at two residues, one associated with DNA damage (S15Ph°s) second with CBP/p300 (K376Ac), and finally activation of the p53 targets. We also deleted Smarca5 in committed erythroid cells (Epor-iCre) and observed that animals were anemic postnatally. Furthermore, 4-hydroxytamoxifen-mediated deletion of Smarca5 in the ex vivo cultures confirmed its requirement for erythroid cell proliferation. Thus, Smarca5 plays indispensable roles during early hematopoiesis and erythropoiesis.
UCP2 Regulates Embryonic Neurogenesis via ROS-Mediated Yap Alternation in the Developing Neocortex
Authors: Ji Fen , Shen Tianjin , Zou Wenzheng , Jiao Jianwei
Published: March 2017

Mitochondrial metabolism is a fundamental process in tissue development. How this process play functions in embryonic neurogenesis remains largely unknown. Here, we show that mitochondrial uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) regulates the embryonic neurogenesis by inhibiting the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which affect the proliferation of progenitors. In the embryonic brains of UCP2 knockdown or condition knockout mice, the proliferation of progenitors is significantly increased, while the differentiation of progenitors is reduced. Furthermore, we identify that Yap is the response protein of UCP2-mediated ROS production. When UCP2 is inactive, the production of ROS is increased. The amount of Yap protein is increased as Yap degradation through ubiquitin–proteasome proteolytic pathway is decreased. The defect caused by UCP2 depression can be rescued by Yap downregulation. Collectively, our results demonstrate that UCP2 regulates embryonic neurogenesis through ROS-mediated Yap alternation, thus shedding new sight on mitochondrial metabolism involved in embryonic neurogenesis.
Retinoic Acid Inducible Gene 1 Protein (RIG1)-Like Receptor Pathway Is Required for Efficient Nuclear Reprogramming
Authors: Sayed Nazish , Ospino Frank , Himmati Farhan , Lee Jieun , Chanda Palas , Mocarski Edward S. , Cooke John P.
Published: March 2017

We have revealed a critical role for innate immune signaling in nuclear reprogramming to pluripotency, and in the nuclear reprogramming required for somatic cell transdifferentiation. Activation of innate immune signaling causes global changes in the expression and activity of epigenetic modifiers to promote epigenetic plasticity. In our previous articles, we focused on the role of toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) in this signaling pathway. Here, we define the role of another innate immunity pathway known to participate in response to viral RNA, the retinoic acid-inducible gene 1 receptor (RIG-1)-like receptor (RLR) pathway. This pathway is represented by the sensors of viral RNA, RIG-1, LGP2, and melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (MDA5). We first found that TLR3 deficiency only causes a partial inhibition of nuclear reprogramming to pluripotency in mouse tail-tip fibroblasts, which motivated us to determine the contribution of RLR. We found that knockdown of interferon beta promoter stimulator 1, the common adaptor protein for the RLR family, substantially reduced nuclear reprogramming induced by retroviral or by modified messenger RNA expression of Oct 4, Sox2, KLF4, and c-MYC (OSKM). Importantly, a double knockdown of both RLR and TLR3 pathway led to a further decrease in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) colonies suggesting an additive effect of both these pathways on nuclear reprogramming. Furthermore, in murine embryonic fibroblasts expressing a doxycycline (dox)-inducible cassette of the genes encoding OSKM, an RLR agonist increased the yield of iPSCs. Similarly, the RLR agonist enhanced nuclear reprogramming by cell permeant peptides of the Yamanaka factors. Finally, in the dox-inducible system, RLR activation promotes activating histone marks in the promoter region of pluripotency genes. To conclude, innate immune signaling mediated by RLR plays a critical role in nuclear reprogramming. Manipulation of innate immune signaling may facilitate nuclear reprogramming to achieve pluripotency.
Highly accurate error estimate of the momentum theory as applied to wind turbines
Authors: Bontempo R. , Manna M.
Published: March 2017

The paper provides a verification of the well‐known momentum theories by comparing their results with those of a semi‐analytical method based on the exact solution of the flow through an actuator disk. In fact, many error sources are disseminated in these theories. Specifically, the axial momentum balance is diffusely applied in an approximate differential form, and several linearization are customarily introduced in the equations of the motion. In the present study, an analytical formulation of these two kinds of errors is provided and a set of data generated with controlled accuracy is used to quantify them both in terms of global (power coefficient) and local (axial velocity at the disk plane) quantities. The overall errors increase by increasing the thrust coefficient and decreasing the tip speed ratio. Although the errors can be generally considered small in terms of global performance coefficients, the differences between the two methods are significant when looking at local quantities. In particular, for the cases presented herein, the momentum theory is shown to overestimate the axial velocity at the tip and at the disk centre regions and to underestimate this velocity elsewhere. For low values of the tip speed ratio, an underestimation also occurs in the zone near to the disk centre. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determining kill rates of ungulate calves by brown bears using neck‐mounted cameras
Authors: Brockman Christopher J. , Collins William B. , Welker Jeffery M. , Spalinger Donald E. , Dale Bruce W.
Published: March 2017

Predation of moose (Alces alces) and caribou (Rangifer tarandas) calves by brown bears (Ursus arctos) has been extensively studied, because predation has population implications for both predator and prey species. Existing methods have provided estimates of population‐level predation rates, but they have not been able to estimate kill rates by individual bears until recently and the accuracy of these estimates was unknown. Our objectives were to evaluate whether collars equipped with video cameras would be able to record predation events by brown bears and provide useful estimates of ungulate kill rates. We fitted 17 brown bears in the Nelchina Basin of Alaska, USA, with Global Positioning System (GPS) collars equipped with cameras in the spring of 2011, 2012, and 2013. We retrieved the collars in late June of each year to download the video data and associated GPS locations. To compensate for incomplete sampling, we constructed a calf risk model from previous calf mortality studies and used it to predict total calf kills for each bear through the end of June. The camera collars documented kill rates considerably greater than previous estimates. Median handling times by bears were 40 min for caribou calves and 60 min for moose calves. These short handling times should be considered by future researchers when trying to evaluate kill detectability and when factoring calf mortality into population models. We demonstrate that this technology can be successfully applied in the field and provide recommendations on the video sampling intervals necessary to detect predation rates. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
Human risk induced behavioral shifts in refuge use by elk in an agricultural matrix
Authors: Visscher Darcy R. , Macleod Ian , Vujnovic Ksenija , Vujnovic Dragomir , Dewitt Philip D.
Published: March 2017

Scientists increasingly acknowledge the influence that nonlethal effects of predation have on structuring wildlife‐landscape interactions. In landscapes dominated by human activities, wildlife can respond to human disturbance in a similar fashion to the risk of predation. Further, the risk allocation hypothesis suggests that individuals respond most strongly to risk when it is spatially and temporally predictable. We predict that individuals in agriculturally dominated landscapes will respond to potential risk from humans during hunting season by shifting their behavior to avoid agricultural areas during the day, instead retreating to refuge habitat. We predict that this shift to more nocturnal behavior will be strongest for elk (Cervus elaphus) adult female–calf pairs and will be influenced by the level of moon illumination. Using motion‐sensing cameras, we studied the response of elk moving between the Wainwright Dunes Ecological Reserve (a hunting refuge) and surrounding agriculturally dominated landscape in east‐central Alberta, Canada, to human disturbance in relation to sunrise and sunset. Elk became increasingly nocturnal with the onset of hunting, leaving the refuge following sunset and returning to the refuge earlier before sunrise. Further, elk became increasingly nocturnal in response to greater levels of moon illumination. Lastly, we found that adult female–calf pairs perceived greater risks associated with diurnal activity and exhibited the most nocturnal behavior relative to other demographic classes. Our results suggest that ungulate management based on traditional hunting seasons and times may be problematic as it creates strong cues for resident elk, allowing them to minimize risk by avoiding risky places at risky times in accordance with the risk allocation hypothesis. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
The Influence of Clinical and Patient‐Reported Outcomes on Post‐surgery Satisfaction in Cholecystectomy Patients
Authors: McLean K. A. , Sheng Z. , O’Neill S. , Boyce K. , Jones C. , Wigmore S. J. , Harrison E. M.
Published: March 2017

Background

Patient‐reported outcomes (PROMs) and post‐operative satisfaction have become a growing focus of surgical outcome evaluation and are considered key components of the movement towards patient‐centred care. The aim was to compare the association of traditional clinical outcome measures and PROMs with post‐surgery satisfaction in cholecystectomy patients.

Methods

Patients who had undergone elective or emergency cholecystectomy for gallstone disease were sent validated PROM questionnaires, and telephone follow‐up was performed in all cases. Categorical data were compared with the Chi‐square and Fisher’s exact tests. Satisfaction was investigated using a “top‐box” approach, and multivariable logistic regression was performed for factors significantly (p < 0.05) associated with satisfaction in univariable analyses.

Results

A total of 234 patients underwent cholecystectomy between 1 March 2014 and 1 May 2014, and 147 patients (63%) completed the questionnaire. 104/147 (71%) reported being “very satisfied” with their surgical outcome. In univariable analyses, satisfaction showed significant association with an absence of hospital‐recorded 30‐day complications (OR = 4.11, 95% CI 1.29–13.84), but not re‐attendance, readmission, or length of stay. In a multiple regression analysis, no traditional clinical outcome measures were associated with satisfaction. By contrast, self‐perceived health (OR = 4.04, 95% CI 1.44–11.86), the absence of patient‐reported wound pain (OR = 6.11, 95% CI 1.83–21.74), and a return to normal leisure activities (OR = 11.14, 95% CI 2.61–55.26) were associated with satisfaction.

Conclusion

PROMs are the major determinants of patient satisfaction following cholecystectomy. When assessing outcomes following cholecystectomy, the measurement of clinical outcomes alone is inadequate and should be supplemented by the use of PROMs.
Using Patient‐Reported Outcome Measures for Quality Improvement in Clinical Genetics: an Exploratory Study
Authors: Costal Tirado A. , McDermott A. M. , Thomas C. , Ferrick D. , Harris J. , Edwards A. , McAllister Marion
Published: March 2017

International advocacy of patient‐centred healthcare delivery has led to emphasis on the (re)design and evaluation of healthcare processes and outcomes from a patient perspective. Patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) have significant potential to inform such attempts. However there is limited understanding of the processes by which this can be achieved. This exploratory study followed attempts to utilise two different PROMs measures to support service quality improvement in clinical genetics. PROMs used were the Genetic Counseling Outcome Scale (GCOS‐24), a well‐validated clinical genetics‐specific PROM and Euroqol (EQ‐5D), a generic PROM favoured by the UK National Institute for Health and Excellence (NICE). Both of these PROMs enable pre/post intervention comparison. A service audit tool was also used, premised on a patient‐reported experience measure. In addition, the study draws on interviews with clinical staff to identify challenges associated with the use of PROMs (response rate, data collection, analysis). Benefits are also explored and include the provision of insight into patients’ needs; complementing clinical judgement; identification of needs being met, evidencing the benefit of services provided; prompting consideration of areas requiring attention; and encouraging professional development.
Seed re‐dispersal of four myrmecochorous plants by a keystone ant in central China
Authors: Zhu Yan , Wang Dong , Codella Sylvio G.
Published: March 2017

Seed re‐dispersal following initial harvesting by ants may have important implications for the distribution and fate of myrmecochorous seeds. However, the probability of seed re‐dispersed by ants and the effect it may have on subsequent survival appear variable, the functional role of diaspore, disperser and seed predator to the fate of discarded seeds remain unclear. To clarify the ecology, we compared the consequences of seed re‐dispersal by a keystone seed‐dispersing ant (Myrmica ruginodis Nylander) for four sympatric myrmecochorous plants common to the temperate deciduous forests in Qinling Mountains, central China. Plants varied in the probability of re‐dispersal and in elaiosome condition. Ants preferred seeds with residual elaiosomes, while rodents only consumed the two larger‐seeded species, regardless of the elaiosome presence. The scattered distribution of discarded seeds increased the probability of ant re‐harvesting and, to some extent, reduced rodent predation. Thus, difference in the probability of seed re‐dispersal and its subsequent effect on seed fate in relation to ants and rodents was attributed primarily to the elaiosome condition, seed size and seed spatial pattern. The results imply that seed re‐dispersal could affect the fitness of plants and ultimately influence the plant abundance and distribution pattern. This highlights the necessity to incorporate re‐dispersal into myrmecochory to advance our understanding of the benefits of myrmecochory to plants.
Mineralogy, Geochemistry, and Genesis of Co-Genetic Granite-Pegmatite-Hosted Rare Metal and Rare Earth Deposits of the Kawadgaon Area, Bastar Craton, Central India
Authors: Singh Yamuna , Pandit P. S. C. , Bagora Sanjay , Jain P. K.
Published: March 2017

Co-genetic pegmatites associated with the granite of the Kawadgaon area in the Bastar craton, Central India, contain a wide range of ore minerals of Nb, Ta, Be, Sn, Zr, Ti, and REE, including columbite-tantalite, ixiolite, pseudo-ixiolite, wodginite, tapiolite, microlite, fersmite, euxenite, aeschynite, beryl, cassiterite, monazite, xenotime, zircon, ilmenite, triplite, and magnetite. There is a distinct vertical zonation between the rare metal and tin pegmatites in apical parts of the host granite. Geochemically, these are LCT-S type, beryl-columbite-phosphate pegmatites that have notably high contents of SiO2 (av. 73.80%), Rb (av. 381 ppm), and Nb (av. 132 ppm). The investigated granites probably were derived from the melting of older crustal rocks, as indicated by a high initial 87Sr/86Sr isotopic ratio, and the major-element geochemistry of the granites and pegmatites. Plots of mol. CaO/(MgO+FeOt) vs. mol. Al O /(MgO+FeOt) suggest that the source rock was pelitic metasediments. Based on the available data, it is postulated that the derivation of pegmatites from the parent granite occurred shortly after granite emplacement in the late Archaean-early Proterozoic (∼2500 Ma). The K/Rb, Ba/Rb, and Rb/Sr ratios of the felsic bodies reveal that a substantial part of the granite formed from evolved melts, and further fractionation produced the co-genetic pegmatites and associated rare metal and rare earth deposits.
Metamict U-rich Pyrochlore of Newania Carbonatite, Udaipur, Rajasthan
Authors: Viladkar S. G. , Bismayer U. , Zietlow P.
Published: March 2017

U-rich pyrochlore (UO2 up to 18.63%) occurs along the magmatic bands as well as disseminated grains within rauhaugites of the Newania complex. UO2 appears to be primary as it seems mostly evenly distributed all over the grains, though in one grain it does show concentration in parts. Ta is also an important element in some pyrochlore grains and its concentration reaches up to 17.15%. High U and Th are responsible for bringing metamictization in the Newania pyrochlore. Newania carbonatite has a complex emplacement history; rauhaugite seems to have been replaced at 2200 Ma years followed by emplacement of ankeritic carbonatite at around 1500 Ma. Later during tectonic event pyrochlore was involved in reaction with hydrothermal fluid and at this stage Fe and FeS were deposited on the rims of pyrochlore grains. At the same time pyrochlore was subjected to hydro-thermal alteration resulting in removal of Na, Ca and F leaving large vacancy in its A-site. Very few grains have escaped such alteration.
Metamorphic Zonal Sequences of Pelitic Schists and Gneisses from the Area around Kandra (Jharkhand): Constraints from Field and Textural Relationship
Authors: Prakash Divya , Patel Dhananjay Kumar , Tewari Suparna , Yadav Manoj Kumar , Yadav Roopali
Published: March 2017

The pelitic schists of the area around Kandra, Singhbhum district, Jharkhand belong to the Chaibasa Formation of the Singhbhum Group, which constitute a part of the youngest Precambrian orogenic cycle of the Singhbhum region. Structurally, the area represents the Singhbhum anticlinorium and is overlain by Dalma traps which form the synclinorium towards the north of the area around Kandra. This area mainly consists of medium to high grade rocks belonging to greenschist and amphibolite facies. These rocks are folded in the E-W trending doubly plunging folds (F1) overturned towards the south with low plunges and superposed by cross-folds (F2). The spatial distribution of the index minerals in the pelitic schists of the area shows Barrovian type of metamorphism. Four isograds, viz. biotite, garnet, staurolite and sillimanite have been delineated by the first appearance of the index minerals and also by isograd reactions. The textural relation suggests that sillimanite is formed from staurolite consumption reaction instead of kyanite consumption.
Facies Characterization of the Surma Group (Miocene) Sediments from Jalalabad Gas Field, Sylhet Trough, Bangladesh: Study from Cores and Wireline Log
Authors: Khanam Farida , Rahman M. Julleh Jalalur , Alam M. Mustafa , Abdullah Rashed
Published: March 2017

The Sylhet trough located on the north-eastern margin of present Bengal basin, contains ~22 km of Tertiary sediments and well known as a hydrocarbon producing province. A detailed facies characterization of the subsurface Miocene Surma Group sediments (especial emphasis on reservoirs sandstones) from Jalalabad gas field within the Sylhet trough has been done using core log analysis and wireline log (gamma ray) interpretation. Texture and sedimentary structures of the cores suggests that the nine individual lithofacies types which can be grouped together into three facies associations, namely, fine-grained facies associations (FFA), medium-grained facies association (MFA) and coarse-grained facies associations (CFA). Major changes in gamma ray log motifs and various bounding discontinuities indicate six para-sequence sets (basin wide) and twenty eight para-sequences (local environmental changes) within the depth range from 2200-2800 m. Detailed facies analysis of the cores and wireline log reveals that the interbedding facies within the associations in the Surma Group commonly develop small-scale fining-upward (FU) cycles, coarsening-upward (CU) and random intercalations (RD). The sediments of the Surma Group of the Jalalabad field have been interpreted as deposits of the shallow marine to tide-dominated deltaic depositional setting. The cyclic nature of sedimentation pattern of the Surma Group probably records an almost continuous existence of this prograding deltaic regime and a tectonic setting characterized by a mixture of prolonged basin subsidence and regional transgression coupled with sporadic regressive phases.
A Potential Headward Retreat Landslide Site at Munnar, Kerala
Authors: Sajinkumar K. S. , Asokakumar M. R. , Sajeev R. , Venkatraman N. V.
Published: March 2017

A potential head ward retreat landslide area was identified in Munnar, a hill station in Western Ghats of Kerala, India. This imminent landslide was suspected to be formed in three different stages viz., evolution of plateau region, upliftment of the plateau region and the consequent slope modification which ultimately facilitated landslide occurrence. Geophysical study through vertical electrical sounding reveals that more than 11 m thick soil is still left in an overhanging position in the crown portion of the land-slide and the thickness continues to the top of that ridge. In the event of high rainfall, the land can fail as there is no toe support, and the slope angle is >40º. This area is adjacent to a college building and in the event of any further landslide, the consequence will be high. Slope stability analysis using one-dimensional infinite slope stability model reveals that the entire area occupied by the college and the adjacent areas are unstable even in dry conditions. Rainfall threshold analysis shows that the landslide occurred due to very high amount of a 5-day antecedent rainfall rather than a daily rainfall during the monsoon. All these point towards a pressing requirement of landslide management practices in this area. This study also attempts to suggest a few management practices to minimize the effect of landslides.
Tectonics and Sedimentation of SW Sarawak Basin, Malaysia, NW Borneo
Authors: Khan Aftab Alam , Abdullah Wan Hasiah , Hassan Meor Hakif , Iskandar Khairinizam
Published: March 2017

Structurally SW Sarawak basin is a southward sloping basement characterized by passive margin tectonic that has undergone through varioius tectonic phases viz., Triassic extension, Cretaceous transpression and Oligo-Miocene compression. Rock types and sedimentation of deeper basin zone situated between Schwaner mountains block to the south and SW Sarawak basin to the north suggest progressive marine sedimentation. E-W trending Cretaceous carbonate platform (CCP) occurs in the SW Sarawak basin signify a shelf zone where shallow marine sedimentation progressed during Cretaceous transpression. Oligo- Miocene volcanics from subduction melts intercepted basin profusely forming northwest-southeast trending continental arc zone derived from partial melting of subducting slab underneath SW Sarawak basin. Back-arc extension prevailed during Oligo- Miocene and formed several extensional features. Oligo-Miocene subduction also resulted in closure and exhumation of Sri Aman marginal sea-basin to the east. SW Sarawak basin is further divided in two sub-basins viz., Senibong to the west and Kuching to the east separated by a northeast trending morphotectonic ridge that signify structural element formed due to shearing. Marine sedimentation progressed in these sub-basins mainly during Triassic–Jurassic while tidal and fluviatile sedimentation progressed during early to mid-Tertiary having total thickness of sediments about 9 km. Basin closure and exhumation is marked mainly by the formation of Cretaceous carbonate build-up that has been intruded and dissected by the Oligo-Miocene volcanics. Senibong and Kuching sub-basins are characterized by wide range of transpressive features, while, Sri Aman marginal sea-basin is characterized by oceanic assemblages, ophiolite, serpentinite and pillow basalt.
Preliminary Geotechnical Characterization of a Site in Southwest Nigeria using Integrated Electrical and Seismic Methods
Authors: Oladunjoye Michael Adeyinka , Salami Ademola Jamiu , Aizebeokhai Ahzegbobor Philips , Sanuade Oluseun Adetola , Kaka SanLinn Isma’il
Published: March 2017

Geophysical investigation using Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES), Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) and Seismic Refraction at a proposed conference center site along Ajibode-Labani road, Ibadan, southwestern Nigeria has been carried out. The investigation aims at characterizing and delineating the sub-surface strata to understand the weathered profile at the site. Understanding the weathered profile is essential in determining the suitability of the site for engineering construction of the future conference center. A total of 25 VES and 10 ERT profiles were acquired in a systematic grid pattern using both Schlumberger and Wenner configurations with Allied omega terrameter. The VES data were processed and analyzed using WinResist and the ERT data were inverted using RES2DINV. The data were combined to form a 3-D data set of the site and RES3DINV was used to produce the depth slices. Seismic refraction data were also acquired with an ABEM seismograph and processed using SeisImager and Fajseis software. Seismic data were used in understanding the velocity distribution and thickness. The results of VES, ERT and seismic refraction show good correlation. Four sub-surface layers were delineated: top layer of reworked sand, clayey sand/ lateritic hard pan, clay/ sandy clay and fracture/ fresh basement. The 3-D model permits a pictorial view of the sub-surface in relation to materials that overlie the basement. The thickness of unconsolidated materials to bedrock varies from 2.7 m to 12.2 m which revealed inhomogeneity in weathering under the shallow sub-surface. It is found that the integrated geophysical tool is well suited to characterize and delineate sub-surface structure (weathered profile) for engineering site characterization.
Recent advances in molecular machines based on toehold‐mediated strand displacement reaction
Authors: Guo Yijun , Wei Bing , Xiao Shiyan , Yao Dongbao , Li Hui , Xu Huaguo , Song Tingjie , Li Xiang , Liang Haojun
Published: March 2017

Background

The DNA strand displacement reaction, which uses flexible and programmable DNA molecules as reaction components, is the basis of dynamic DNA nanotechnology, and has been widely used in the design of complex autonomous behaviors.

Results

In this review, we first briefly introduce the concept of toehold‐mediated strand displacement reaction and its kinetics regulation in pure solution. Thereafter, we review the recent progresses in DNA complex circuit, the assembly of AuNPs driven by DNA molecular machines, and the detection of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) using DNA toehold exchange probes in pure solution and in interface state. Lastly, the applications of toehold‐mediated strand displacement in the genetic regulation and silencing through combining gene circuit with RNA interference systems are reviewed.

Conclusions

The toehold‐mediated strand displacement reaction makes DNA an excellent material for the fabrication of molecular machines and complex circuit, and may potentially be used in the disease diagnosis and the regulation of gene silencing in the near future.
Bistability and oscillations in co‐repressive synthetic microbial consortia
Authors: Sadeghpour Mehdi , Veliz‐Cuba Alan , Orosz Gábor , Josić Krešimir , Bennett Matthew R.
Published: March 2017

Background

Synthetic microbial consortia are conglomerations of genetically engineered microbes programmed to cooperatively bring about population‐level phenotypes. By coordinating their activity, the constituent strains can display emergent behaviors that are difficult to engineer into isogenic populations. To do so, strains are engineered to communicate with one another through intercellular signaling pathways that depend on cell density.

Methods

Here, we used computational modeling to examine how the behavior of synthetic microbial consortia results from the interplay between population dynamics governed by cell growth and internal transcriptional dynamics governed by cell‐cell signaling. Specifically, we examined a synthetic microbial consortium in which two strains each produce signals that down‐regulate transcription in the other. Within a single strain this regulatory topology is called a “co‐repressive toggle switch” and can lead to bistability.

Results

We found that in co‐repressive synthetic microbial consortia the existence and stability of different states depend on population‐level dynamics. As the two strains passively compete for space within the colony, their relative fractions fluctuate and thus alter the strengths of intercellular signals. These fluctuations drive the consortium to alternative equilibria. Additionally, if the growth rates of the strains depend on their transcriptional states, an additional feedback loop is created that can generate oscillations.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that the dynamics of microbial consortia cannot be predicted from their regulatory topologies alone, but are also determined by interactions between the strains. Therefore, when designing synthetic microbial consortia that use intercellular signaling, one must account for growth variations caused by the production of protein.
Wilderness Medical Society Practice Guidelines for Prevention and Management of Avalanche and Nonavalanche Snow Burial Accidents
Authors: Van Tilburg Christopher , Grissom Colin K. , Zafren Ken , McIntosh Scott , Radwin Martin I. , Paal Peter , Haegeli Pascal , Smith William “Will” R. , Wheeler Albert R. , Weber David , Tremper Bruce , Brugger Hermann
Published: March 2017

To provide guidance to clinicians and avalanche professionals about best practices, the Wilderness Medical Society convened an expert panel to develop evidence-based guidelines for the prevention, rescue, and medical management of avalanche and nonavalanche snow burial victims. Recommendations are graded on the basis of quality of supporting evidence according to the classification scheme of the American College of Chest Physicians.
The Effects of a 36-Hour Mixed Task Ultraendurance Race on Mucosal Immunity Markers and Pulmonary Function
Authors: Bellar David , Murphy Kellie A. , Aithal Ritvik , Davis Greggory R. , Piper Tim
Published: March 2017

Objective

The present study was conducted to assess the changes in mucosal immunity and pulmonary function among participants in a 36-hour mixed task ultraendurance race.

Methods

Thirteen of the 20 race participants volunteered for the investigation (age 34±5 y). The event consisted of a mixture of aerobic, strong man, and military-style exercise. Participants had a pulmonary function test and gave a finger stick capillary blood sample and unstimulated saliva samples both before the event and upon dropout or completion. The blood sample was analyzed for hematocrit, and the saliva sample was analyzed for salivary flow rate, salivary alpha amylase, salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA), and IgA type 1.

Results

Significant differences were noted among the finishers and those who dropped out in salivary flow rate ( P = .026), salivary IgA ( P = .017), and peak expiratory flow ( P = .05) measurements. Salivary flow rate and IgA for the race finishers were reduced from pre- to postrace, whereas the nonfinishers showed no change or small increases. No significant differences emerged for other variables.

Conclusions

Based on the results of the present investigation, finishing a 36-hour mixed task ultra-endurance event results in a decline in both pulmonary function and mucosal immunity compared with competitors who do not finish.
An Assessment of Diarrhea Among Long-Distance Backpackers in the Sierra Nevada
Authors: Meyer Derek J. , Costantino Amber , Spano Susanne
Published: March 2017

Introduction

Diarrhea is a common problem among long-distance backpackers, ranging in overall incidence from 11–56% as reported by previous studies on the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail. Differences in age, sex, and regularity of standard backcountry hygiene recommendations and practices have been shown to significantly affect the incidence of diarrhea. No study to date has investigated these trends among long-distance backpackers on the John Muir Trail (JMT) in the Sierra Nevada mountain range of California.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of online survey data gathered from long-distance backpackers who attempted a JMT trek in 2014. Data were assessed for the significance of variables that might contribute to the incidence and severity of on-trail diarrhea.

Results

Of 737 valid responders, 16.4% reported experiencing diarrhea (82% with minimal/mild severity; 18% with significant severity). Regular hand sanitizer use was significantly correlated with more severe diarrhea ( P < .05), but had no effect on incidence. Regular hand sanitizer users followed all other recommended hygiene practices as frequently as or better than those not using hand sanitizer regularly. Of all backpackers, 88% filtered or treated their drinking water regularly, with 18% of those reporting diarrhea of any severity.

Conclusions

JMT backpackers have a comparatively lower incidence of diarrhea than backpackers on other major long-distance backpacking routes in the United States. Most JMT backpackers follow standard backcountry hygiene recommendations, including regular filtration or treatment of drinking water. No statistical significance was found between the incidence of diarrhea and compliance with standard hygiene recommendations. Regular hand sanitizer use was significantly correlated with more severe diarrhea but was not associated with incidence. There was no significant difference in compliance with standard backcountry hygiene practices between regular and infrequent hand sanitizer users.
Can latitudinal richness gradients be measured in the terrestrial fossil record?
Authors: Fraser Danielle
Published: March 2017

Studying the deep-time origins of macroecological phenomena can help us to understand their long-term drivers. Given the considerable spatiotemporal bias of the terrestrial fossil record, it behooves us to understand how much biological information is lost. The aim of this study is to establish whether latitudinal diversity gradients are detectable in a biased terrestrial fossil record. I develop a simulated fossilization approach, weighting the probability of terrestrial mammal species appearing in the fossil record based on body size and geographic-range size; larger species with larger range sizes are more likely to enter the fossil record. I create simulated fossil localities from the modern North American mammal record. I vary the percentage of species successfully fossilized and estimate the magnitude of the latitudinal diversity gradient (slope of the richness gradient and degree of species turnover). I find that estimates of the latitudinal diversity gradient are sensitive to the loss of species with small body size and geographic-range sizes. In some cases, simulated fossil-record bias completely obliterates evidence of declining richness with latitude, a phenomenon that is not ameliorated by the application of nonparametric richness estimation. However, if the rate of preservation is medium (50% of species) to high (75% of species), the magnitude of the latitudinal diversity gradient can be reliably estimated. Similarly, changes in the diversity gradient estimates are largely explained by differences in the diversity–climate relationship among iterations, suggesting that these relationships may be measurable in the fossil record.
Flight performance of Macdunnoughia crassisigna (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Fu X.-W. , Chang H. , He L.-M. , Zhao S.-Y. , Wu K.-M.
Published: March 2017

Macdunnoughia crassisigna Warren (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a highly destructive herbivore that poses a serious risk to cotton, maize, soybean, and cruciferous vegetables in East Asia. Examining the effects of various biotic and abiotic factors on the flight performance of M. crassisigna is crucial for a better understanding of its trans-regional migration. In this study, the flight activity of M. crassisignai moths of different ages, under different temperatures and relative humidity (RH) levels, was evaluated by tethering individuals to computerized flight mills for a 24-h trial period. The results showed that M. crassisignai had the capacity for sustained flight and the flight ability was strongest in 3-day-old individuals, and then their flight performance decreased significantly in older moths. For both sexes, temperature had a significant effect on their flight performance, and the flight activity was relatively higher at 24–28°C than other temperatures. There was a significant effect of RH on all flight parameters of the tested moths, and the flight activity was relatively higher at RH of 60–75% than other RH levels. For 3-day-old moths under the optimum conditions (24°C and 75% RH) throughout the 24 h scotophase, their mean flight distance reached 66 km, and the mean flight duration reached 13.5 h, suggesting M. crassisigna possess strong potential to undertake long-distance migration. These findings will be helpful for developing sound forecasting systems of this pest species.