bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
An Investigation in to the Rotordynamics Behavior of Mechanically Coupled Turbo Expander
Authors: Kannan Balaji , Vaidyanathan Krishnamurthy , Pithamber Kiran , Mahapatra Suvendu 
Published: February 2015

Considerable amount of mathematical modeling backed by extensive experimental investigations have gone in to the study of the rotordynamics behavior of high speed turbo expanders. These investigations revolve predominantly around the linear & non-linear aspects of hydrodynamic bearings that support these rotating elements. Further, these expanders are not mechanically coupled to the prime mover and hence the impact of lateral vibrations imposed by the interfacing assemblies downstream is not a concern.
However, when the expander is mechanically coupled to a prime mover, say by means of gears, lateral vibrations resulting from the interfacing system is going to have a pronounced effect on the rotordynamics behavior of this system. It is of paramount importance that we account for the stiffness & damping properties of the interface components in order to accurately predict the rotordynamics behavior of the expander.
An attempt is being made by the authors to develop an expander and bearing system along with a high speed, multi stage reduction gear box, to understand the impact of lateral vibrations due to mechanical coupling of the expander.
Whole-Genome Sequencing Analysis of Quorum-Sensing Aeromonas hydrophila Strain M023 from Freshwater
Authors: Tan Wen-Si , Yin Wai-Fong , Chang Chien-Yi , Chan Kok-Gan 
Published: February 2015

ABSTRACT

Aeromonas hydrophila
is a well-known waterborne pathogen that recently was found to infect humans. Here, we report the draft genome of a freshwater isolate from a Malaysian waterfall, A. hydrophila strain M023, which portrays
N
-acylhomoserine lactone-dependent quorum sensing.
Murine Coronavirus Ubiquitin-Like Domain Is Important for Papain-Like Protease Stability and Viral Pathogenesis
Authors: Mielech Anna M. , Deng Xufang , Chen Yafang , Kindler Eveline , Wheeler Dorthea L. , Mesecar Andrew D. , Thiel Volker , Perlman Stanley , Baker Susan C. 
Published: February 2015

ABSTRACT
Ubiquitin-like domains (Ubls) now are recognized as common elements adjacent to viral and cellular proteases; however, their function is unclear. Structural studies of the papain-like protease (PLP) domains of coronaviruses (CoVs) revealed an adjacent Ubl domain in severe acute respiratory syndrome CoV, Middle East respiratory syndrome CoV, and the murine CoV, mouse hepatitis virus (MHV). Here, we tested the effect of altering the Ubl adjacent to PLP2 of MHV on enzyme activity, viral replication, and pathogenesis. Using deletion and substitution approaches, we identified sites within the Ubl domain, residues 785 to 787 of nonstructural protein 3, which negatively affect protease activity, and valine residues 785 and 787, which negatively affect deubiquitinating activity. Using reverse genetics, we engineered Ubl mutant viruses and found that AM2 (V787S) and AM3 (V785S) viruses replicate efficiently at 37°C but generate smaller plaques than wild-type (WT) virus, and AM2 is defective for replication at higher temperatures. To evaluate the effect of the mutation on protease activity, we purified WT and Ubl mutant PLP2 and found that the proteases exhibit similar specific activities at 25°C. However, the thermal stability of the Ubl mutant PLP2 was significantly reduced at 30°C, thereby reducing the total enzymatic activity. To determine if the destabilizing mutation affects viral pathogenesis, we infected C57BL/6 mice with WT or AM2 virus and found that the mutant virus is highly attenuated, yet it replicates sufficiently to elicit protective immunity. These studies revealed that modulating the Ubl domain adjacent to the PLP reduces protease stability and viral pathogenesis, revealing a novel approach to coronavirus attenuation.

IMPORTANCE
Introducing mutations into a protein or virus can have either direct or indirect effects on function. We asked if changes in the Ubl domain, a conserved domain adjacent to the coronavirus papain-like protease, altered the viral protease activity or affected viral replication or pathogenesis. Our studies using purified wild-type and Ubl mutant proteases revealed that mutations in the viral Ubl domain destabilize and inactivate the adjacent viral protease. Furthermore, we show that a CoV encoding the mutant Ubl domain is unable to replicate at high temperature or cause lethal disease in mice. Our results identify the coronavirus Ubl domain as a novel modulator of viral protease stability and reveal manipulating the Ubl domain as a new approach for attenuating coronavirus replication and pathogenesis.
Regional setting and deposit geology of the Golden Sunlight Mine
Authors: Oyer Nancy , Childs John , Mahoney J. Brian 
Published: February 2015

Abstract
The Barrick Golden Sunlight Mine (GSM) in Whitehall, Montana, is an industry leader in safe, responsible resource extraction. With more than 3 million ounces of gold poured since 1983, and current proven and probable reserves of 318,000 ounces of gold, GSM is the largest gold producer in Montana. The gold-silver deposit is localized in a hydrothermal breccia pipe related to Late Cretaceous latite porphyry magmatism hosted by the Mesoproterozoic Belt Supergroup, and is influenced by younger cross-cutting faults and fracture systems. The deposit has been mined by both underground and open pit methods, and the current open pit operation was recently permitted for expansion. The mill and tailings operations practice efficient and environmentally responsible resource recovery by processing ore from historical tailings and dumps from around the state in addition to ore from the Golden Sunlight property. This trip will explore the complex geologic and tectonic controls on mineralization and review how GSM has addressed the technical challenges of mining, milling, and reclamation.
Tacrolimus or infliximab for severe ulcerative colitis: short-term and long-term data from a retrospective observational study
Authors: Minami Naoki , Yoshino Takuya , Matsuura Minoru , Koshikawa Yorimitsu , Yamada Satoshi , Toyonaga Takahiko , Madian Ali , Honzawa Yusuke , Nakase Hiroshi 
Published: February 2015

ObjectiveTreatment of severe ulcerative colitis (UC) is challenging. Although the efficacy of tacrolimus (TAC) and infliximab (IFX) have been evaluated in patients with severe UC, the safety and efficacy levels of sequential therapies (TAC→IFX/IFX→TAC) in these patients remain unclear. The aim of this study was to assess short-term and long-term outcomes in patients with severe UC treated with TAC and IFX.MethodsFrom October 2001 to February 2014, 29 patients with consecutive severe UC treated with TAC or IFX were retrospectively evaluated. Median follow-up duration was 27 months (range 0.5–118 months). The primary end point was short-term outcomes at 8 weeks after induction of TAC (TAC group, n=22) or IFX (IFX group, n=7). The secondary end point included long-term outcomes and colectomy-free survival. The clinical response was evaluated based on a partial Mayo score.ResultsThe clinical remission (CR) rate at 8 weeks in the TAC and IFX groups was 63.6% and 71.4%, respectively. In 13 of the 29 patients (10 in the TAC group, 3 in the IFX group), sequential therapies were used in their clinical courses. In 9 of these 13 patients (6 in the TAC group, 3 in the IFX group), CR was achieved and maintained by sequential therapies. Overall cumulative colectomy-free survival was 79.3% at 118 months.ConclusionsTAC and IFX had similar effects on remission induction in patients with severely active UC. Sequential therapies could rescue patients with UC who failed initial treatment with TAC or IFX. In clinical practice, sequential therapies might be deliberately performed.
Mass spectrometric analysis of unknown haemoglobin fractions identified by high-performance liquid chromatography in an antenatal screening programme
Authors: Griffin M , Eyre J , Dack S , Wright J 
Published: February 2015

AimsThe majority of haematology laboratories use automated high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) as a primary method in the screening of samples for haemoglobin variants and thalassaemia. HPLC detects adducted fractions, such as HbA1C and other peaks of unknown significance. The National Health Service (NHS) Sickle and Thalassaemia Screening Programme does not mandate further assessment of these unknown peaks, but their presence may cause concern or precipitate detailed investigations. Mass spectrometry (MS) is being increasingly used in NHS Laboratories and is an effective method of characterising variant haemoglobins.MethodAntenatal blood samples accepted for NHS Sickle and Thalassaemia Screening Programme from 2005 to 2013 were assessed. Those samples with unidentified peaks on HPLC were further analysed by Liquid chromatography tandem MS (LCMSMS).Results58 493 samples were processed. 966 (1.6%) significant haemoglobinopathies were identified. 68 patients (0.11%) were found to have unidentified peaks on HPLC. α chain variants: two were hyperunstable α variants, Hb Adana and Hb H/Constant Spring. The patient with HbH/Constant Spring required transfusion during pregnancy. Other abnormalities include 24 unstable α chain variants of minimal clinical significance and 17 α chain variants of no clinical significance. The frequency of β chain abnormalities was lower, with 10 patients having an insignificant β chain variant, 4 mildly unstable β chain variants (2 of whom had increased oxygen affinity) and 4 with variants associated with increased oxygen affinity.ConclusionsThe prevalence of unidentified variants on automated HPLC within our population is 0.1%. LCMSMS is an effective technique to assist in the characterisation of unknown haemoglobin variants. α chain variants of limited clinical significance were the most commonly detected abnormality.
Inhibition of ERK1/2 and Activation of LXR Synergistically Reduce Atherosclerotic Lesions in ApoE-Deficient Mice
Authors: Chen Yuanli , Duan Yajun , Yang Xiaoxiao , Sun Lei , Liu Mengyang , Wang Qixue , Ma Xingzhe , Zhang Wenwen , Li Xiaoju , Hu Wenquan , Miao Robert Q. , Xiang Rong , Hajjar David P. , Han Jihong 
Published: February 2015

Objective—
Activation of liver X receptor (LXR) inhibits atherosclerosis but induces hypertriglyceridemia. In vitro, it has been shown that mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1/2 (MEK1/2) inhibitor synergizes LXR ligand–induced macrophage ABCA1 expression and cholesterol efflux. In this study, we determined whether MEK1/2 (U0126) and LXR ligand (T0901317) can have a synergistic effect on the reduction of atherosclerosis while eliminating LXR ligand–induced fatty livers and hypertriglyceridemia. We also set out to identify the cellular mechanisms of the actions.

Approach and Results—

Wild-type mice were used to determine the effect of U0126 on a high-fat diet or high-fat diet plus T0901317-induced transient dyslipidemia and liver injury. ApoE deficient (apoE
−/−
) mice or mice with advanced lesions were used to determine the effect of the combination of T0901317 and U0126 on atherosclerosis and hypertriglyceridemia. We found that U0126 protected animals against T0901317-induced transient or long-term hepatic lipid accumulation, liver injury, and hypertriglyceridemia. Meanwhile, the combination of T0901317 and U0126 inhibited the development of atherosclerosis in a synergistic manner and reduced advanced lesions. Mechanistically, in addition to synergistic induction of macrophage ABCA1 expression, the combination of U0126 and T0901317 maintained arterial wall integrity, inhibited macrophage accumulation in aortas and formation of macrophages/foam cells, and activated reverse cholesterol transport. The inhibition of T0901317-induced lipid accumulation by the combined U0126 might be attributed to inactivation of lipogenesis and activation of lipolysis/fatty acid oxidation pathways.

Conclusions—
Our study suggests that the combination of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1/2 inhibitor and LXR ligand can function as a novel therapy to synergistically reduce atherosclerosis while eliminating LXR-induced deleterious effects.
Early Hyperlipidemia Promotes Endothelial Activation via a Caspase-1-Sirtuin 1 Pathway
Authors: Yin Ying , Li Xinyuan , Sha Xiaojin , Xi Hang , Li Ya-Feng , Shao Ying , Mai Jietang , Virtue Anthony , Lopez-Pastrana Jahaira , Meng Shu , Tilley Douglas G. , Monroy M. Alexandra , Choi Eric T. , Thomas Craig J. , Jiang Xiaohua , Wang Hong , Yang Xiao-Feng 
Published: February 2015

Objective—
The role of receptors for endogenous metabolic danger signals–associated molecular patterns has been characterized recently as bridging innate immune sensory systems for danger signals–associated molecular patterns to initiation of inflammation in bone marrow–derived cells, such as macrophages. However, it remains unknown whether endothelial cells (ECs), the cell type with the largest numbers and the first vessel cell type exposed to circulating danger signals–associated molecular patterns in the blood, can sense hyperlipidemia. This report determined whether caspase-1 plays a role in ECs in sensing hyperlipidemia and promoting EC activation.

Approach and Results—

Using biochemical, immunologic, pathological, and bone marrow transplantation methods together with the generation of new apoplipoprotein E (ApoE)
−/−
/caspase-1
−/−
double knockout mice, we made the following observations: (1) early hyperlipidemia induced caspase-1 activation in ApoE
−/−
mouse aorta; (2) caspase-1
−/−
/ApoE
−/−
mice attenuated early atherosclerosis; (3) caspase-1
−/−
/ApoE
−/−
mice had decreased aortic expression of proinflammatory cytokines and attenuated aortic monocyte recruitment; and (4) caspase-1
−/−
/ApoE
−/−
mice had decreased EC activation, including reduced adhesion molecule expression and cytokine secretion. Mechanistically, oxidized lipids activated caspase-1 and promoted pyroptosis in ECs by a reactive oxygen species mechanism. Caspase-1 inhibition resulted in accumulation of sirtuin 1 in the ApoE
−/−
aorta, and sirtuin 1 inhibited caspase-1 upregulated genes via activator protein-1 pathway.

Conclusions—
Our results demonstrate for the first time that early hyperlipidemia promotes EC activation before monocyte recruitment via a caspase-1–sirtuin 1–activator protein-1 pathway, which provides an important insight into the development of novel therapeutics for blocking caspase-1 activation as early intervention of metabolic cardiovascular diseases and inflammations.
Blood–Brain Barrier Compromise Does Not Predict Perihematoma Edema Growth in Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: McCourt Rebecca , Gould Bronwen , Kate Mahesh , Asdaghi Negar , Kosior Jayme C. , Coutts Shelagh , Hill Michael D. , Demchuk Andrew , Jeerakathil Thomas , Emery Derek , Butcher Kenneth S. 
Published: February 2015

Background and Purpose—
There are limited data on the extent of blood–brain barrier (BBB) compromise in acute intracerebral hemorrhage patients. We tested the hypotheses that BBB compromise measured with permeability-surface area product (PS) is increased in the perihematoma region and predicts perihematoma edema growth in acute intracerebral hemorrhage patients.

Methods—
Patients were randomized within 24 hours of symptom onset to a systolic blood pressure (SBP) treatment of <150 (n=26) or <180 mm Hg (n=27). Permeability maps were generated using computed tomographic perfusion source data acquired 2 hours after randomization, and mean PS was measured in the hematoma, perihematoma, and hemispheric regions. Hematoma and edema volumes were measured on noncontrast computed tomographic scans obtained at baseline, 2 hours and 24 hours after randomization.

Results—

Patients were randomized at a median (interquartile range) time of 9.3 hours (14.1) from symptom onset. Treatment groups were balanced with respect to baseline SBP and hematoma volume. Perihematoma PS (5.1±2.4 mL/100 mL per minute) was higher than PS in contralateral regions (3.6±1.7 mL/100 mL per minute;
P
<0.001). Relative edema growth (0–24 hours) was not predicted by perihematoma PS (β=−0.192 [−0.06 to 0.01]) or SBP change (β=−0.092 [−0.002 to 0.001]). SBP was lower in the <150 target group (139.2±22.1 mm Hg) than in the <180 group (159.7±12.3 mm Hg;
P
<0.0001). Perihematoma PS was not different between groups (4.9±2.4 mL/100 mL per minute for the <150 group, 5.3±2.4 mL/100 mL per minute for the <180 group;
P
=0.51).

Conclusions—
BBB permeability is focally increased in the hematoma and perihematoma regions of acute intracerebral hemorrhage patients. BBB compromise does not predict acute perihematoma edema volume or edema growth. SBP reduction does not affect BBB permeability.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00963976.
Seasonal Variability of the Polar Stratospheric Vortex in an Idealized AGCM with Varying Tropospheric Wave Forcing
Authors: Sheshadri Aditi , Plumb R. Alan , Gerber Edwin P. 
Published: February 2015

Abstract
The seasonal variability of the polar stratospheric vortex is studied in a simplified AGCM driven by specified equilibrium temperature distributions. Seasonal variations in equilibrium temperature are imposed in the stratosphere only, enabling the study of stratosphere–troposphere coupling on seasonal time scales, without the complication of an internal tropospheric seasonal cycle. The model is forced with different shapes and amplitudes of simple bottom topography, resulting in a range of stratospheric climates. The effect of these different kinds of topography on the seasonal variability of the strength of the polar vortex, the average timing and variability in timing of the final breakup of the vortex (final warming events), the conditions of occurrence and frequency of midwinter warming events, and the impact of the stratospheric seasonal cycle on the troposphere are explored. The inclusion of wavenumber-1 and wavenumber-2 topographies results in very different stratospheric seasonal variability. Hemispheric differences in stratospheric seasonal variability are recovered in the model with appropriate choices of wave-2 topography. In the model experiment with a realistic Northern Hemisphere–like frequency of midwinter warming events, the distribution of the intervals between these events suggests that the model has no year-to-year memory. When forced with wave-1 topography, the gross features of seasonal variability are similar to those forced with wave-2 topography, but the dependence on forcing magnitude is weaker. Further, the frequency of major warming events has a nonmonotonic dependence on forcing magnitude and never reaches the frequency observed in the Northern Hemisphere.
Circumpolar Mapping of Antarctic Coastal Polynyas and Landfast Sea Ice: Relationship and Variability
Authors: Nihashi Sohey , Ohshima Kay I. 
Published: February 2015

Abstract
Sinking of dense water from Antarctic coastal polynyas produces Antarctic Bottom Water (AABW), which is the densest water in the global overturning circulation and is a key player in climate change as a significant sink for heat and carbon dioxide. Very recent studies have suggested that landfast sea ice (fast ice) plays an important role in the formation and variability of the polynyas and possibly AABW. However, they have been limited to regional and case investigations only. This study provides the first coincident circumpolar mapping of Antarctic coastal polynyas and fast ice. The map reveals that most of the polynyas are formed on the western side of fast ice, indicating an important role of fast ice in the polynya formation. Winds diverging from a boundary comprising both coastline and fast ice are the primary determinant of polynya formation. The blocking effect of fast ice on westward sea ice advection by the coastal current would be another key factor. These effects on the variability in sea ice production for 13 major polynyas are evaluated quantitatively. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that a drastic change in fast ice extent, which is particularly vulnerable to climate change, causes dramatic changes in the polynyas and possibly AABW formation that can potentially contribute to further climate change. These results suggest that fast ice and precise polynya processes should be addressed by next-generation models to produce more accurate climate projections. This study provides the boundary and validation data of fast ice and sea ice production for such models.
Adaptive Evolutionary Programming
Authors: Roebber Paul J. 
Published: February 2015

Abstract
Previous work has shown that evolutionary programming is an effective method for constructing skillful forecast ensembles. Here, two prototype adaptive methods are developed and tested, using minimum temperature forecast data for Chicago, Illinois, to determine whether they are capable of incorporating improvements to forecast inputs (as might occur with changes to operational forecast models and data assimilation methods) and to account for short-term changes in predictability (as might occur for particular flow regimes). Of the two methods, the mixed-mode approach, which uses a slow mode to evolve the overall ensemble structure and a fast mode to adjust coefficients, produces the best results. When presented with better operational guidance, the mixed-mode method shows a reduction of 0.57°F in root-mean-square error relative to a fixed evolutionary program ensemble. Several future investigations are needed, including the optimization of training intervals based on flow regime and improvements to the adjustment of fast-mode coefficients. Some remarks on the appropriateness of this method for other ensemble forecast problems are also provided.
Primary malignant tumors of the heart: Outcomes of the surgical treatment
Authors: Pacini Davide , Careddu Lucio , Pantaleo Antonio , Parolari Alessandro , Leone Ornella , Daprati Andrea , Gargiulo Gaetano Domenico , Di Bartolomeo Roberto 
Published: February 2015

Background Malignant cardiac tumors are rare and have an extremely poor prognosis even when complete resection is attempted. The aim of this study was to review the experience of primary malignant cardiac tumors in 2 Italian academic hospitals. Methods The hospital records were searched to identify patients with primary malignant cardiac tumors who underwent surgery between January 1979 and December 2012. Secondary cardiac tumors, whether metastatic or invasive, were excluded as were primary sarcomas of the great arteries. Fourteen patients selected from our institution’s surgical series were identified. Eleven (78.6%) were men and 3 (21.4%) were women, and the mean age at surgery was 47.4 years. Results The most common histological type was angiosarcoma (28.6%). The mean survival was 28.8 ± 28 months and it was better in men than in women (30.5 ± 8.7 vs. 21.1 ± 3.2 months). Patients with a radical resection at the first surgery had a longer survival compared to patients with a partial resection (39.9 ± 23.2 vs. 24 ± 4 months). Conclusions The treatment outcome for patients affected by primary malignant heart tumors remains poor. Aggressive surgery alone does not provide good results in terms of survival rate. A new multidisciplinary approach is mandatory to improve long-term survival.