bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reluctance Force Magnetic Suspension Characteristics and Control for Cylindrical Rotor Bearingless Motors
Authors: Zhou Lei , Trumper David L.
Published: October 2016

In this paper, the modeling and control of reluctance-force-based magnetic suspension in cylindrical rotor, smooth air-gap bearingless motors are presented. The full suspension system dynamics, including both the destabilizing forces due to the motor field and the active magnetic suspension control forces, are modeled, and a transfer function of the bearingless motor suspension plant is derived. It is shown that the suspension system dynamics in a bearingless motor depend on the motor winding current amplitude. This requires the magnetic suspension controllers to address the changing system dynamics and to stabilize the suspension under different driving conditions. A controller design with its gains changing with the motor winding current amplitude is proposed. The derived model and the proposed controller design are verified by experiments with a hybrid hysteresis–induction type bearingless motor. It is shown that the derived mathematical model provides an effective basis for loop-shaping control design for the reluctance-force-based magnetic suspension systems in bearingless motors, and the proposed controller design can stabilize the rotor's suspension under varying excitation conditions.
Quantification of Road Vehicle Handling Quality Using a Compensatory Steering Controller
Authors: Braghieri Giovanni , Haslam Alexander , Sideris Michalis , Timings Julian , Cole David
Published: October 2016

Criteria for stability and controllability of road vehicles are briefly reviewed, and it is argued that there is a need for criteria that might better relate to subjective ratings by drivers. The variance of a driver's closed-loop control action against random disturbances acting on the vehicle is proposed as a realistic criterion that might relate to a driver's assessment of the vehicle. A nonlinear vehicle model with five degrees-of-freedom, negotiating a 90-deg bend in minimum time, is the basis for the theoretical study. The vehicle model is run with the center of mass in two different positions. It is found that the variance of the driver's compensatory steering control varies significantly through the maneuver, reaching a peak at about midcorner. The corresponding variance in the lateral path error of the vehicle also peaks at about the same position in the maneuver. Comparison of these variances to existing stability and controllability criteria shows that the variance of the compensatory control might reveal aspects of the handling behavior that the existing criteria do not. Recommendations for further work are given and include a program of driving simulator experiments or track tests to correlate the new criteria against subjective ratings by human drivers.
Community Outreach with Play-Doh® Electronics
Authors: Bensky Tom , Bensky William
Published: October 2016

It never fails: you’re in your office and the phone rings. Your department head says, “Hi! Fifty kids are coming to campus in 30 minutes. Can you meet with them and give them a one-hour hands-on activity that will make them excited about physics?” Likely you’ll run to your demonstration room and grab anything that’ll generate a bright light or cause something to explode or levitate, right? In recent years, we’ve taken a more systematic approach to hosting visitors by developing a ready-to-go hands-on activity that provides opportunities for learning about DC electric circuits.
Teaching Electric Fences: The Physics Behind the Brainiac Video
Authors: Vollmer Michael
Published: October 2016

In many states, electric fences are used to prevent animals from leaving a designated area, for example for grazing. They are quite well known by most students and can therefore serve as daily-life examples of electric circuits. Besides helping to grasp the ideas of Kirchhoff’s laws for voltages and currents in circuits according to loop and junction rules, they can also serve as introduction to the topic of conduction of electricity by humans and respective effects (in contrast to electric fences, the latter can also be studied experimentally in the classroom). Here we provide background information on the circuit diagrams of electrical fences that also explains the so-called Brainiac YouTube videos on the topic. While electric fences are designed not to be dangerous to humans or animals due to the short duration of the electrical pulses, students and teachers are strongly discouraged from attempting to replicate the scenes enacted in the video.
Are labmade human eggs coming soon?
Authors: Vogel Gretchen
Published: October 2016

Mouse eggs grown in vitro produce apparently healthy offspring, but clinical use is distant.
Role of Serum Mycoplasma pneumoniae IgA, IgM, and IgG in the Diagnosis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae-Related Pneumonia in School-Age Children and Adolescents
Authors: Lee Wei-Ju , Huang Eng-Yen , Tsai Chih-Min , Kuo Kuang-Che , Huang Yi-Chuan , Hsieh Kai-Sheng , Niu Chen-Kuang , Yu Hong-Ren
Published: October 2016

Mycoplasma pneumoniae
is an important causative pathogen of community-acquired pneumonia in children. Rapid and reliable laboratory diagnosis of
M. pneumoniae
infection is important so that appropriate antibiotic treatment can be initiated to reduce the misuse of drugs and resistance rates. Anti-
M. pneumoniae
immunoglobulin M (IgM) is an indicator of recent primary infection but can persist for several months after initial infection. It has been suggested that anti-
M. pneumoniae
immunoglobulin A (IgA) can be a reliable indicator for recent
M. pneumoniae
infection in adults. We investigated the clinical diagnostic value of
M. pneumoniae
IgA in school-age children and adolescents with
M. pneumoniae
-related pneumonia. Eighty children with pneumonia and seropositive for
M. pneumoniae
IgM or with a 4-fold increase of anti-
M. pneumoniae
immunoglobulin G (IgG) were enrolled from May 2015 to March 2016. The titers of
M. pneumoniae
IgA, IgM, and IgG, the clinical features, and laboratory examinations of blood, C-reactive protein, and liver enzymes were analyzed. The initial positivity rates for
M. pneumoniae
IgM and IgA upon admission to the hospital were 63.6 and 33.8%, respectively. One week after admission, the cumulative positivity rates for
M. pneumoniae
IgM and IgA increased to 97.5 and 56.3%, respectively. Detection of
M. pneumoniae
IgM was more sensitive than detection of
M. pneumoniae
IgA for the diagnosis of
M. pneumoniae
-related pneumonia in school-age children and adolescents; however, paired sera are necessary for a more accurate diagnosis.
Structural Biology of the Arterivirus nsp11 Endoribonucleases
Authors: Zhang Manfeng , Li Xiaorong , Deng Zengqin , Chen Zhenhang , Liu Yang , Gao Yina , Wu Wei , Chen Zhongzhou
Published: October 2016

Endoribonuclease (NendoU) is unique and conserved as a major genetic marker in nidoviruses that infect vertebrate hosts. Arterivirus nonstructural protein 11 (nsp11) was shown to have NendoU activity and play essential roles in the viral life cycle. Here, we report three crystal structures of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and equine arteritis virus (EAV) nsp11 mutants. The structures of arterivirus nsp11 contain two conserved compact domains: the N-terminal domain (NTD) and C-terminal domain (CTD). The structures of PRRSV and EAV endoribonucleases are similar and conserved in the arterivirus, but they are greatly different from that of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) coronaviruses (CoV), representing important human pathogens in the
Nidovirales
order. The catalytic center of NendoU activity is located in the CTD, where a positively charged groove is next to the key catalytic residues conserved in nidoviruses. Although the NTD is nearly identical, the catalytic region of the arterivirus nsp11 family proteins is remarkably flexible, and the oligomerization may be concentration dependent. In summary, our structures provide new insight into this key multifunctional NendoU family of proteins and lay a foundation for better understanding of the molecular mechanism and antiviral drug development.

IMPORTANCE
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and equine arteritis virus are two major members of the arterivirus family. PRRSV, a leading swine pathogen, causes reproductive failure in breeding stock and respiratory tract illness in young pigs. Due to the lack of a suitable vaccine or effective drug treatment and the quick spread of these viruses, infected animals either die quickly or must be culled. PRRSV costs the swine industry around $644 million annually in the United States and almost €1.5 billion in Europe every year. To find a way to combat these viruses, we focused on the essential viral nonstructural protein 11 (nsp11). nsp11 is associated with multiple functions, such as RNA processing and suppression of the infected host innate immunity system. The three structures solved in this study provide new insight into the molecular mechanisms of this crucial protein family and will benefit the development of new treatments against these deadly viruses.
Design andIn VivoCharacterization of Immunoconjugates Targeting HIV gp160
Authors: Pincus Seth H. , Song Kejing , Maresh Grace A. , Frank Anderson , Worthylake David , Chung Hye-Kyung , Polacino Patricia , Hamer Dean H. , Coyne Cody P. , Rosenblum Michael G. , Marks John W. , Chen Gang , Weiss Deborah , Ghetie Victor , Vitetta Ellen S. , Robinson James E. , Hu Shiu-Lok
Published: October 2016

The envelope (Env) glycoprotein of HIV is expressed on the surface of productively infected cells and can be used as a target for cytotoxic immunoconjugates (ICs), in which cell-killing moieties, including toxins, drugs, or radionuclides, are chemically or genetically linked to monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) or other targeting ligands. Such ICs could be used to eliminate persistent reservoirs of HIV infection. We have found that MAbs which bind to the external loop of gp41, e.g., MAb 7B2, make highly effective ICs, particularly when used in combination with soluble CD4. We evaluated the toxicity, immunogenicity, and efficacy of the ICs targeted with 7B2 in mice and in simian-human immunodeficiency virus-infected macaques. In the macaques, we tested immunotoxins (ITs), consisting of protein toxins bound to the targeting agent. ITs were well tolerated and initially efficacious but were ultimately limited by their immunogenicity. In an effort to decrease immunogenicity, we tested different toxic moieties, including recombinant toxins, cytotoxic drugs, and tubulin inhibitors. ICs containing deglycosylated ricin A chain prepared from ricin toxin extracted from castor beans were the most effective in killing HIV-infected cells. Having identified immunogenicity as a major concern, we show that conjugation of IT to polyethylene glycol limits immunogenicity. These studies demonstrate that cytotoxic ICs can target virus-infected cellsin vivobut also highlight potential problems to be addressed.

IMPORTANCEIt is not yet possible to cure HIV infection. Even after years of fully effective antiviral therapy, a persistent reservoir of virus-infected cells remains. Here we propose that a targeted conjugate consisting of an anti-HIV antibody bound to a toxic moiety could function to kill the HIV-infected cells that constitute this reservoir. We tested this approach in HIV-infected cells grown in the lab and in animal infections. Our studies demonstrated that these immunoconjugates are effective bothin vitroand in test animals. In particular, ITs constructed with the deglycosylated A chain prepared from native ricin were the most effective in killing cells, but their utility was blunted because they provoked immune reactions that interfered with the therapeutic effects. We then demonstrated that coating of the ITs with polyethylene glycol minimized the immunogenicity, as has been demonstrated with other protein therapies.
Carbon Monoxide Inhibits Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus Replication by the Cyclic GMP/Protein Kinase G and NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhang Angke , Zhao Lijuan , Li Na , Duan Hong , Liu Hongliang , Pu Fengxing , Zhang Gaiping , Zhou En-Min , Xiao Shuqi
Published: October 2016

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) causes significant economic losses to the pork industry worldwide each year. Our previous research demonstrated that heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) can suppress PRRSV replication via an unknown molecular mechanism. In this study, inhibition of PRRSV replication was demonstrated to be mediated by carbon monoxide (CO), a downstream metabolite of HO-1. Using several approaches, we demonstrate that CO significantly inhibited PRRSV replication in both a PRRSV permissive cell line, MARC-145, and the predominant cell type targeted during
in vivo
PRRSV infection, porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs). Our results showed that CO inhibited intercellular spread of PRRSV; however, it did not affect PRRSV entry into host cells. Furthermore, CO was found to suppress PRRSV replication via the activation of the cyclic GMP/protein kinase G (cGMP/PKG) signaling pathway. CO significantly inhibits PRRSV-induced NF-κB activation, a required step for PRRSV replication. Moreover, CO significantly reduced PRRSV-induced proinflammatory cytokine mRNA levels. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that CO exerts its anti-PRRSV effect by activating the cellular cGMP/PKG signaling pathway and by negatively regulating cellular NF-κB signaling. These findings not only provide new insights into the molecular mechanism of HO-1 inhibition of PRRSV replication but also suggest potential new control measures for future PRRSV outbreaks.

IMPORTANCE
PRRSV causes great economic losses each year to the swine industry worldwide. Carbon monoxide (CO), a metabolite of HO-1, has been shown to have antimicrobial and antiviral activities in infected cells. Our previous research demonstrated that HO-1 can suppress PRRSV replication. Here we show that endogenous CO produced through HO-1 catalysis mediates the antiviral effect of HO-1. CO inhibits PRRSV replication by activating the cellular cGMP/PKG signaling pathway and by negatively regulating cellular NF-κB signaling. These findings not only provide new insights into the molecular mechanism of HO-1 inhibition of PRRSV replication but also suggest potential new control measures for future PRRSV outbreaks.
Fungal Sex: The
Ascomycota
Authors: Bennett Richard J. , Turgeon B. Gillian
Published: October 2016

This article provides an overview of sexual reproduction in the ascomycetes, a phylum of fungi that is named after the specialized sacs or “asci” that hold the sexual spores. They have therefore also been referred to as the Sac Fungi due to these characteristic structures that typically contain four to eight ascospores. Ascomycetes are morphologically diverse and include single-celled yeasts, filamentous fungi, and more complex cup fungi. The sexual cycles of many species, including those of the model yeasts
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
and
Schizosaccharomyces pombe
and the filamentous saprobes
Neurospora crassa
,
Aspergillus nidulans
, and
Podospora anserina
, have been examined in depth. In addition, sexual or parasexual cycles have been uncovered in important human pathogens such as
Candida albicans
and
Aspergillus fumigatus
, as well as in plant pathogens such as
Fusarium graminearum
and
Cochliobolus heterostrophus
. We summarize what is known about sexual fecundity in ascomycetes, examine how structural changes at the mating-type locus dictate sexual behavior, and discuss recent studies that reveal that pheromone signaling pathways can be repurposed to serve cellular roles unrelated to sex.
Latent
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Infection and Interferon-Gamma Release Assays
Authors: Pai Madhukar , Behr Marcel
Published: October 2016

The identification of individuals with latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is useful for both fundamental understanding of the pathogenesis of disease and for clinical and public health interventions (i.e., to prevent progression to disease). Basic research suggests there is a pathogenetic continuum from exposure to infection to disease, and individuals may advance or reverse positions within the spectrum, depending on changes in the host immunity. Unfortunately, there is no diagnostic test that resolves the various stages within the spectrum of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
infection. Two main immune-based approaches are currently used for identification of LTBI: the tuberculin skin test (TST) and the interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA). TST can use either the conventional purified protein derivative or more specific antigens. Extensive research suggests that both TST and IGRA represent indirect markers of
M. tuberculosis
exposure and indicates a cellular immune response to
M. tuberculosis
. The imperfect concordance between these two tests suggests that neither test is perfect, presumably due to both technical and biological reasons. Neither test can accurately differentiate between LTBI and active TB. Both IGRA and TST have low sensitivity in a variety of immunocompromised populations. Cohort studies have shown that both TST and IGRA have low predictive value for progression from infection to active TB. For fundamental applications, basic research is necessary to identify those at highest risk of disease with a positive TST and/or IGRA. For clinical applications, the identification of such biomarkers can help prioritize efforts to interrupt progression to disease through preventive therapy.
Mycobacterium bovisBCG and New Vaccines for the Prevention of Tuberculosis
Authors: Lahey Timothy , von Reyn C. Fordham
Published: October 2016

Tuberculosis infects millions of people worldwide and remains a leading global killer despite widespread neonatal administration of the tuberculosis vaccine, bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG). BCG has clear and sustained efficacy, but after 10 years, its efficacy appears to wane, at least in some populations. Fortunately, there are many new tuberculosis vaccines in development today, some in advanced stages of clinical trial testing. Here we review the epidemiological need for tuberculosis vaccination, including evolving standards for administration to at risk individuals in developing countries. We also examine proven sources of immune protection from tuberculosis, which to date have exclusively involved natural or vaccine exposure to whole cell mycobacteria. After summarizing evidence for the use and efficacy of BCG, we detail the most promising new candidate vaccines against tuberculosis. The global need for a new tuberculosis vaccine is acute and huge, but clinical trials to be completed in the coming few years are likely either to identify a new tuberculosis vaccine or to substantially reframe how we understand immune protection from this historical scourge.
Inclusion of walnut in the diets of adults at risk for type 2 diabetes and their dietary pattern changes: a randomized, controlled, cross-over trial
Authors: Njike Valentine Yanchou , Yarandi Niloufarsadat , Petraro Paul , Ayettey Rockiy G , Treu Judith A , Katz David L
Published: October 2016

Background

In our recently published study, including walnuts in the diets of adults with prediabetes led to overall improvement in diet quality. This report adds to those study findings by examining the food groups displaced during walnut inclusion in the diets of those adults with prediabetes.

Methods

Randomized, controlled, modified Latin square parallel design with 2 treatment arms. The 112 participants (31 men, 81 women) were randomly assigned to a diet with or without dietary counseling to regulate calorie intake in a 1:1 ratio. Within each treatment arm, participants were further randomized to 1 of 2 sequence permutations to receive a walnut-included diet with 56 g (366 kcal) of walnuts per day and a walnut-excluded diet. Participants in the calorie-regulated arm received advice from a dietitian to preserve an isocaloric condition while including walnuts. We analyzed the 12 components of the 2010 Healthy Eating Index to examine dietary pattern changes of study participants.

Results

Seafood and plant protein foods intake significantly increased with walnut inclusion, compared with their exclusion (2.14±2.06 vs −0.49±2.33; p=0.003). The ingestion of healthful fatty acids also significantly increased with walnut inclusion, compared with their exclusion (1.43±4.53 vs −1.76±4.80; p=0.02). Dairy ingestion increased with walnut inclusion in the calorie-regulated phase, compared with walnut inclusion without calorie regulation (1.06±4.42 vs −2.15±3.64; p=0.02).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that walnut inclusion in the diets of adults at risk for diabetes led to an increase in intake of other healthful foods.

Trial registration number

NCT02330848.
Safety and immunogenicity of a new 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine versus a licensed 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine: a study protocol of a randomised non-inferiority trial in China
Authors: Chen Jing Jing , Yuan Lin , Huang Zhen , Shi Nian Min , Zhao Yu Liang , Xia Sheng Li , Li Guo Hua , Li Rong Cheng , Li Yan Ping , Yang Shu Yuan , Xia Jie Lai
Published: October 2016

Introduction

The invasive pneumococcal diseases (IPDs) caused byStreptococcus pneumoniaepose an enormous threat to children under 5 years of age. However, routine use of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines could aid in reducing the incidence of IPDs. The purpose of this clinical trial is to assess the non-inferiority of the investigational 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) to the currently licensed 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7).

Methods and analysis

1040 infants will receive a three-dose series of either PCV13 or PCV7 at ages 3, 4 and 5 months, respectively, and a booster dose at 12–15 months. Primary end points are the percentage of participants reaching a serotype-specific IgG concentration of ≥0.35 µg/mL and the IgG antibody geometric mean concentrations (GMCs) measured 30 days after the primary immunisation. Secondary end points include the percentage of vaccine recipients reaching a serotype-specific IgG concentration threshold of 1.0 µg/mL, the percentage of participants reaching the pneumococcal opsonophagocytic assay (OPA) titre threshold of 1:8, and the geometric mean titres (GMTs) of OPA measured 30 days after primary and booster doses. The number of standard IgG responders and IgG GMCs measured 30 days after the booster immunisation will also be determined. To evaluate differences between two groups, the sequential testing of the non-inferiority of PCV13 for the seven common serotypes and its effectiveness in treating the six additional serotypes will be performed.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approvals have been granted by the Ethics Committees at the three provinces involved in this study: Shanxi, Henan and Hebei. The trial will be reported in accordance with the CONSORT guidance.

Trial registration number

NCT02736240.
Venous thromboembolism capture on electronic systems in obstetrics patients at St Thomas' Hospital
Authors: Ahmad Aminah Noor , Byrne Megan Leyla , Imambaccus Nazia , Hubert Dawid , Gateley Anna , Abdullahi Idle Salwa , Lloyd Jilly
Published: October 2016

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality in the UK. Therefore, timely VTE risk assessment is essential in all obstetrics patients. The Commissioning for Quality and Innovation (CQUIN) payment framework set a target for trusts to complete a VTE risk assessment within 24 hours of admission for 95% of patients. A combination of factors, including lack of integration between multiple IT systems, means that this CQUIN target is currently not being met for obstetric patients in the Hospital Birth Centre at Guys and St Thomas' NHS Trust.

This project aims to increase staff awareness of this issue and educate them regarding the correct procedure for VTE assessment. Trialled methods included reminders at staff handovers, use of magnets on the patient whiteboard, posters and stickers displayed around the unit and a loyalty card scheme as incentive to complete assessments. Initial average completion rate was 20.7%, which increased to 67.5% after the first plan, do, study, act (PDSA) cycle with a slight drop to 65.7% after the second cycle. Completion rates increased to 92.3% on the last day of the third PDSA cycle. Although we did not reach the 95% target, we have raised awareness of the importance of recording VTE assessment on electronic systems, and hope we have created sustainable change.
The North American invasive zooplanktivoreBythotrephes longimanusis less hypoxia-tolerant than the nativeLeptodora kindtii
Authors: Sorensen Michael L. , Branstrator Donn K.
Published: October 2016

The predatory cladoceran Bythotrephes longimanus (spiny water flea) has been invading lakes and damaging food webs across the central part of North America since the early 1980s. To understand its niche and that of the taxonomically related and native predatory cladoceran Leptodora kindtii, we investigated species survival after 12 h exposures to low dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations in the laboratory. Bythotrephes longimanus (n = 690) exhibited a hypoxia tolerance limit (LC50) of 1.65 mg·L−1DO (95% confidence interval: 1.59, 1.72 mg·L−1) and was significantly less tolerant of hypoxia than L. kindtii (n = 380), which exhibited an LC50of 0.58 mg·L−1DO (0.51, 0.65 mg·L−1). These lab-based physiological results are consistent with landscape-scale observations that B. longimanus successfully invades primarily mesotrophic and oligotrophic lakes, while L. kindtii inhabits a wider range of lakes that includes eutrophic ones. Climate change throughout the 21st century may increase the occurrence and severity of hypoxia in the hypolimnia of lakes and may provide a growing barrier to B. longimanus invasion.
Dysfunction of endothelial progenitor cells in hyperlipidemic rats involves the increase of NADPH oxidase derived reactive oxygen species production
Authors: Li Ting-Bo , Zhang Jie-Jie , Liu Bin , Luo Xiu-Ju , Ma Qi-Lin , Peng Jun
Published: October 2016

NADPH oxidase (NOX) is a major source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the body and it plays a key role in mediation of oxidative injury in the cardiovascular system. The purposes of this study are to evaluate the status of NOX in endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) of hyperlipidemic rats and to determine whether NOX-derived ROS promotes the dysfunction of EPCs. The rats were fed on a high-fat diet for 8 weeks to establish a hyperlipidemic rat model, which showed the increased plasma lipids and the impaired functions of circulating EPCs (including the reduced abilities in migration and adhesion) accompanied by an increase in NOX activity and ROS production. Next, EPCs were isolated from normal rats and they were treated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) (100 μg/mL) for 24 h to induce a dysfunctional model in vitro. In agreement with our findings in vivo, ox-LDL treatment increased the dysfunctions of EPCs concomitant with an increase in NOX activity and ROS production; these phenomena were reversed by the NOX inhibitor. Based on these observations, we conclude that NOX-derived ROS involved in the dysfunctions of circulating EPCs in hyperlipidemic rats and inhibition of NOX might provide a novel strategy to improve EPC functions in hyperlipidemia.
Future colliders symposium in Hong Kong: Scientific overview
Authors: Quigg Chris
Published: October 2016

Opening Lecture at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Jockey Club Institute for Advanced Study Program on High Energy Physics Conference, January 18–21, 2016.
The effects of quantum gravity on some thermodynamical quantities
Authors: Kamali A. D. , Shababi H. , Nozari K.
Published: October 2016

In this paper, using a deformed algebra [Formula: see text] which is originated from various theories of gravity, we study thermodynamical properties of the classical and extreme relativistic gases in canonical ensembles. In this regards, we exactly calculate the modified partition function, Helmholtz free energy, internal energy, entropy, heat capacity and the thermal pressure which conclude to the familiar form of the equation of state for the ideal gas. The advantage of applying this algebra is not only considering all natural cutoffs but also its structure is similar to the other effective quantum gravity models such as polymer, Snyder and noncommutative space–time frameworks. Moreover, after obtaining some thermodynamical quantities including internal energy and entropy, we conclude at high temperature limits due to the decreasing of the number of microstates, these quantities reach to maximal bounds which do not exist in standard cases and it concludes that at the presence of gravity for both micro-canonic and canonic ensembles, the internal energy and the entropy tend to these upper bounds.
Playing with the enveloping algebra of supersymmetry
Authors: Cattaruzza E. , Gozzi E.
Published: October 2016

In this paper, we show how to obtain from a scalar superfield its first component via a similarity transformation. We prove that in [Formula: see text] the generators of this similarity transformation live in the enveloping algebra of supersymmetry while for [Formula: see text] they belong to the basic algebra.
An Enhanced Design of Multi-Band RF Band Pass Filter Based on Tunable High-Q Active Inductor for Nano-Satellite Applications
Authors: Hammadi Aymen Ben , Mhiri Mongia , Haddad Fayrouz , Saad Sehmi , Besbes Kamel
Published: October 2016

This paper describes the design of a novel cascode-grounded tunable active inductor and its application in an active band-pass filter (BPF) suitable for multi-band radio frequency (RF) front-end circuits. The proposed active inductor circuit uses feedback resistance to improve the equivalent inductance and the quality factor. The novelty of this work lies on the use of a few number of multi-finger transistors, which allows reducing strongly the power consumption and the silicon area. In other words, we demonstrate that the use of variable P-type Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (PMOS) resistor and controllable current source have a good potential for wide tuning in terms of inductance value, quality factor and frequency operation. The RF BPF is realized using the proposed active inductor with suitable input and output buffer stages. The tuning of the center frequency for multi-band operation is achieved through control voltages. The designed active inductor and RF BPF have been implemented in a standard 0.13[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) technology. The simulation results are compared between schematic and post-layout design for inductance value, quality factor, transmission coefficient S21 and noise. This design yields encouraging results: the inductance value can be tuned from 10.94 to 44.17[Formula: see text]nH with an optimal quality factor around 2,581. In addition, the center frequency of the BPF can be tuned between 2 and 4.84[Formula: see text]GHz with an average insertion loss of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]dB. Throughout this range, the noise figure is between 10.49 and 9.22[Formula: see text]dB with an input referred 1[Formula: see text]dB compression point of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]dBm and IIP3 of 7.36[Formula: see text]dBm. The filter occupies 25.43[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m of active area without pads and consumes between 2.38 and 2.84[Formula: see text]mW from a 1[Formula: see text]V supplying voltage.
Leading gravitational corrections and a unified universe
Authors: Codello Alessandro , Jain Rajeev Kumar
Published: October 2016

Leading order gravitational corrections to the Einstein–Hilbert action can lead to a consistent picture of the universe by unifying the epochs of inflation and dark energy in a single framework. While the leading local correction induces an inflationary phase in the early universe, the leading nonlocal term leads to an accelerated expansion of the universe at the present epoch. We argue that both the leading UV and IR terms can be obtained within the framework of a covariant effective field theory of gravity. The perturbative gravitational corrections therefore provide a fundamental basis for understanding a possible connection between the two epochs.
The measure problem in no-collapse (many worlds) quantum mechanics
Authors: Hsu Stephen D. H.
Published: October 2016

We explain the measure problem (cf. origin of the Born probability rule) in no-collapse quantum mechanics. Everett defined maverick branches of the state vector as those on which the usual Born probability rule fails to hold — these branches exhibit highly improbable behaviors, including possibly the breakdown of decoherence or even the absence of an emergent semi-classical reality. Derivations of the Born rule which originate in decision theory or subjective probability (i.e. the reasoning of individual observers) do not resolve this problem, because they are circular: they assume, a priori, that the observer occupies a non-maverick branch. An ab initio probability measure is sometimes assumed to explain why we do not occupy a maverick branch. This measure is constrained by, e.g. Gleason’s theorem or envariance to be the usual Hilbert measure. However, this ab initio measure ultimately governs the allocation of a self or a consciousness to a particular branch of the wave function, and hence invokes primitives which lie beyond the Everett wave function and beyond what we usually think of as physics. The significance of this leap has been largely overlooked, but requires serious scrutiny.
MULTIPLE TESTING OF SIGN SYMMETRY FOR STOCK RETURN DISTRIBUTIONS
Authors: KOLDANOV PETR , LOZGACHEVA NINA
Published: October 2016

Multiple statistical procedure for testing elliptical model for stock returns distribution is proposed. Sign symmetry conditions are chosen as individual hypotheses for multiple testing. Distribution free uniformly most powerful tests of Neyman structure are constructed for individual hypotheses testing. Associated stepwise multiple testing procedure is applied for the real market data. Numerical experiments shows that hypothesis of elliptical model is rejected. At the same time it is observed that the graph of rejected individual hypotheses has unexpected structure. Namely, this graph is sparse and has a few hubs of high degree. Removing this hubs leads to nonrejection of hypothesis of elliptical model.
Broad-absorbing tetrabenzocorrolazine green photosensitizer for the enhanced conversion efficiency in dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Choi Jun , Lee Woosung , Kim Jae P.
Published: October 2016

Novel tetrabenzocorrolazine green photosensitizer was designed and synthesized to enhance the solar energy-to-electricity conversion efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells. This near-infrared absorbing dye exhibited superior short-circuit photocurrent density induced from the additional absorption compared to the phthalocyanine dye commonly applied as a photosensitizer covering the near-infrared region in dye-sensitized solar cells. The introduction of bulky peripheral groups and axial substituents to the novel dye led to the increase of open-circuit photovoltage. As a result, the novel tetrabenzocorrolazine dye achieved a solar energy-to-electricity conversion efficiency of 3.78% under AM 1.5G conditions which was much higher than that of the phthalocyanine reference dye.
CASE REPORT: ISOIMMUNE THROMBOCYTOPENIC PURPURA IN SUCKLING PIGS
Authors: Hsu Julia Chu-Ning , Lin Cheng-Chung , Hou Fu-Hsiang , Chang Hao-Kai , Hsu Tien-Huan , Liao Jiunn-Wang , Lee Wei-Cheng
Published: October 2016

Two consecutive cases of hemorrhagic purpura characterized by severe subcutaneous bruising and extensive hemorrhages in the visceral organs of the affected suckling piglets occurred in a pig farm. A total of forty 2- to 3-day-old neonates were affected in the first case and there were eight 8- to 9-day-old piglets in the second case which occurred 3 months later. The hematological study of one affected piglet showed marked thrombocytopenia with macrocytic hypochromic anemia without coagulation factor impairment in the second case. Based on the presence of severe thrombocytopenia, extensive hemorrhagic lesions and restricted occurrence in particular suckling pigs, isoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura was suspected in both cases. This is the first such case reported in Taiwan.
Electrical Stimulation of the Retina to Produce Artificial Vision
Authors: Weiland James D. , Walston Steven T. , Humayun Mark S.
Published: October 2016

Retinal prostheses aim to restore vision to blind individuals suffering from retinal diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration. These devices function by electrically stimulating surviving retinal neurons, whose activation is interpreted by the brain as a visual percept. Many prostheses are currently under development. They are categorized as epiretinal, subretinal, and suprachoroidal prostheses on the basis of the placement of the stimulating microelectrode array. Each can activate ganglion cells through direct or indirect stimulation. The response of retinal neurons to these modes of stimulation are discussed in detail and are placed in context of the visual percept they are likely to evoke. This article further reviews challenges faced by retinal prosthesis and discusses potential solutions to address them.
Mechanisms of Orientation Selectivity in the Primary Visual Cortex
Authors: Priebe Nicholas J.
Published: October 2016

The mechanisms underlying the emergence of orientation selectivity in the visual cortex have been, and continue to be, the subjects of intense scrutiny. Orientation selectivity reflects a dramatic change in the representation of the visual world: Whereas afferent thalamic neurons are generally orientation insensitive, neurons in the primary visual cortex (V1) are extremely sensitive to stimulus orientation. This profound change in the receptive field structure along the visual pathway has positioned V1 as a model system for studying the circuitry that underlies neural computations across the neocortex. The neocortex is characterized anatomically by the relative uniformity of its circuitry despite its role in processing distinct signals from region to region. A combination of physiological, anatomical, and theoretical studies has shed some light on the circuitry components necessary for generating orientation selectivity in V1. This targeted effort has led to critical insights, as well as controversies, concerning how neural circuits in the neocortex perform computations.
Endothelin-1–Rho kinase interactions impair lung structure and cause pulmonary hypertension after bleomycin exposure in neonatal rat pups
Authors: Gien Jason , Tseng Nancy , Seedorf Gregory , Kuhn Katherine , Abman Steven H.
Published: October 2016

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the chronic lung disease associated with premature birth, characterized by impaired vascular and alveolar growth. In neonatal rats bleomycin decreases lung growth and causes pulmonary hypertension (PH), which is poorly responsive to nitric oxide. In the developing lung, through Rho kinase (ROCK) activation, ET-1 impairs endothelial cell function; however, whether ET-1–ROCK interactions contribute to impaired vascular and alveolar growth in experimental BPD is unknown. Neonatal rats were treated daily with intraperitoneal bleomycin with and without selective ETA(BQ123/BQ610) and ETB(BQ788) receptor blockers, nonselective ET receptor blocker (ETRB) (bosentan), or fasudil (ROCK inhibitor). At day 14, lungs were harvested for morphometrics, and measurements of Fulton's index (RV/LV+S), medial wall thickness (MWT), and vessel density. Lung ET-1 protein and ROCK activity (phospho-MYPT-1:total MYPT-1 ratio) were also measured by Western blot analysis. Bleomycin increased lung ET-1 protein expression by 65%, RV/LV+S by 60%, mean linear intercept (MLI) by 212%, and MWT by 140% and decreased radial alveolar count (RAC) and vessel density by 40 and 44%, respectively ( P < 0.01 for each comparison). After bleomycin treatment, fasudil and bosentan partially restored RAC and vessel density and decreased MLI, RV/LV+S, and MWT to normal values. Bleomycin increased ROCK activity by 120%, which was restored to normal values by bosentan but not selective ETRB. We conclude that ET-1–ROCK interactions contribute to decreased alveolar and vascular growth and PH in experimental BPD. We speculate that nonselective ETRB and ROCK inhibitors may be effective in the treatment of infants with BPD and PH.
Adrenodemedullation activates the Ca2+-dependent proteolysis in soleus muscles from rats exposed to cold
Authors: Manfredi L. H. , Lustrino D. , Machado J. , Silveira W. A. , Zanon N. M. , Navegantes L. C. , Kettelhut I. C.
Published: October 2016

Previous studies have shown that catecholamines in vivo and in vitro inhibit the activity of Ca2+-dependent proteolysis in skeletal muscles under basal conditions. In the present study we sought to investigate the role of catecholamines in regulating the Ca2+-dependent proteolysis in soleus and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles from rats acutely exposed to cold. Overall proteolysis, the activity of proteolytic systems, protein levels and gene expression of different components of the calpain system were investigated in rats submitted to adrenodemedullation (ADMX) and exposed to cold for 24 h. ADMX drastically reduced plasma epinephrine and promoted an additional increase in the overall proteolysis, which was already increased by cold exposure. The rise in the rate of protein degradation in soleus muscles from adrenodemedullated cold-exposed rats was caused by the high activity of the Ca2+-dependent proteolysis, which was associated with the generation of a 145-kDa cleaved α-fodrin fragment, a typical calpain substrate, and lower protein levels and mRNA expression of calpastatin, the endogenous calpain inhibitor. Unlike that observed for soleus muscles, the cold-induced muscle proteolysis in EDL was not affected by ADMX. In isolated soleus muscle, clenbuterol, a selective β2-adrenoceptor agonist, reduced the basal Ca2+-dependent proteolysis and completely abolished the activation of this pathway by the cholinergic agonist carbachol. These data suggest that catecholamines released from the adrenal medulla inhibit cold-induced protein breakdown in soleus, and this antiproteolytic effect on the Ca2+-dependent proteolytic system is apparently mediated through expression of calpastatin, which leads to suppression of calpain activation.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Although many effects of the sympathetic nervous system on muscle physiology are known, the role of catecholamines in skeletal muscle protein metabolism has been scarcely studied. We suggest that catecholamines released from adrenal medulla may be of particular importance for restraining the activation of the Ca2+-dependent proteolysis in soleus muscles during acute cold exposure. This finding helps us to understand the adaptive changes that occur in skeletal muscle protein metabolism during cold stress.
Mercaptopurine Treatment in an Adult Man with Orbital and Intracranial Rosai-Dorfman Disease
Authors: Arnao Valentina , Riolo Marianna , Savettieri Giovanni , Aridon Paolo
Published: October 2016

Background. Rosai-Dorfmann disease (RDD) is a rare, idiopathic non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis, affecting children and young adults, that commonly presents as painless, massive cervical lymphadenopathy with fever, weight loss, and polyclonal hypergammaglobulinemia. Cervical lymphadenopathy and extranodal involvement are the main presentations. On the contrary, ophthalmic involvement and localisation in the central nervous system are rare.Case Report. An old man was admitted to our hospital for first seizure. Brain imaging studies revealed on the left an extra-axial thickening of the dura mater with enhancement and perilesional oedema, infiltrating the sphenoorbital fissure and an isointense mass with enhancement in the orbital region with dislocation of the optic nerve. Pathological and immunohistochemistry examination of the bioptical specimen was consistent with a diagnosis of RDD. Treatment with levetiracetam and steroids was started obtaining only remission of seizures. Because of the patient refusal of the surgical debulking, therapy with mercaptopurine was started, stopping disease progression.Conclusion. So far, very few cases of extranodal RDD with multiple CNS lesions involving the orbital region have been described. Our case is significant because it is the first case in which the efficacy of mercaptopurine treatment has been documented in an adult patient with isolated ocular and intracranial RDD.
Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy with Contralateral Ovarian Serous Cyst Adenoma Torsion: Laparoscopic Management of Double Trouble
Authors: Ganesh Deepa , Rajkumar Anirudh , Rajkumar J. S. , Guru Venkatesan
Published: October 2016

Adnexal torsion is responsible for 2.7% of all gynecological emergencies. Ectopic pregnancy is relatively common, occurring in 2% of all pregnancies. We report the second case of ruptured right tubal ectopic gestation with torsion of serous cystadenoma of left ovary. This was diagnosed after emergency laparoscopy done for acute abdomen. Right salpingectomy and left ovarian detorsion followed by cystectomy were done laparoscopically.
Internal Carotid Artery Stenosis Presenting with Limb Shaking TIA
Authors: Javaid Awad , Alfishawy Mostafa
Published: October 2016

Internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis may lead to a wide range of clinical symptoms. We describe the case of a 66-year-old female who experienced a transient ischemic attack (TIA) with episodes of limb shaking caused by ICA stenosis. After epilepsy had been suspected and ruled out, studies of her left ICA showed extensive blockage as a result of atherosclerosis. Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) revealed total occlusion of the left ICA and the patient was eventually medically managed due to the strong possibility of surgical complications. We reported this patient’s clinical course to shed light on a rare manifestation of carotid stenosis that may be confused with other diagnoses if not closely scrutinized.
Ileocolic Intussusception in a Leukemic Adult Patient: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Innabi Ayoub , Tuqan Wa’el , Alawneh Alia , Saleh Alaa , Alrabi Kamal , Marei Lina
Published: October 2016

We present a rare case of intussusception in a 41-year-old man with acute myeloid leukemia without an evidence of leukemic infiltration of the bowel. The patient presented to the emergency room with right lower quadrant pain. Initially he was diagnosed with typhlitis. CT scan was done and showed ileocolic intussusception without a definitive lead point identified. Patient underwent hemicolectomy and histopathological study of the specimen did not show any leukemic infiltrate. High suspicion of intussusception should be kept in mind with leukemic patients presenting with abdominal pain.
Chronic Leptomeningitis and Spinal Intradural Mass Secondary to Alternaria Infection in a Patient with Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt
Authors: Dadwal Sanjeet S. , Thompson Russell , Jandial Rahul , Tegtmeier Bernard , Chen Mike Yue
Published: October 2016

Fungal infection following placement of ventriculostomy or ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is uncommon. We report the first case of Alternaria related central nervous system (CNS) shunt infection in a patient with CNS ependymoma manifesting as leptomeningitis and a spinal intradural mass. This case illustrates the diagnostic and management challenges.