bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Evolutionarily Conserved Mechanism for Intrinsic and Transferable Polymyxin Resistance
Authors: Xu Yongchang , Wei Wenhui , Lei Sheng , Lin Jingxia , Srinivas Swaminath , Feng Youjun
Published: April 2018

Polymyxins, a family of cationic antimicrobial cyclic peptides, act as a last line of defense against severe infections by Gram-negative pathogens with carbapenem resistance. In addition to the intrinsic resistance to polymyxin E (colistin) conferred by
Neisseria eptA
, the plasmid-borne mobilized colistin resistance gene
mcr-1
has been disseminated globally since the first discovery in Southern China, in late 2015. However, the molecular mechanisms for both intrinsic and transferable resistance to colistin remain largely unknown. Here, we aim to address this gap in the knowledge of these proteins. Structural and functional analyses of EptA and MCR-1 and -2 have defined a conserved 12-residue cavity that is required for the entry of the lipid substrate, phosphatidylethanolamine (PE). The
in vitro
and
in vivo
data together have allowed us to visualize the similarities in catalytic activity shared by EptA and MCR-1 and -2. The expression of either EptA or MCR-1 or -2 is shown to remodel the surface of enteric bacteria (e.g.,
Escherichia coli
,
Salmonella enterica
,
Klebsiella pneumoniae
, etc.), rendering them resistant to colistin. The parallels in the PE substrate-binding cavities among EptA, MCR-1, and MCR-2 provide a comprehensive understanding of both intrinsic and transferable colistin resistance. Domain swapping between EptA and MCR-1 and -2 reveals that the two domains (transmembrane [TM] region and
p
hospho
e
thanol
a
mine [PEA] transferase) are not functionally exchangeable. Taken together, the results represent a common mechanism for intrinsic and transferable PEA resistance to polymyxin, a last-resort antibiotic against multidrug-resistant pathogens.

IMPORTANCE
EptA and MCR-1 and -2 remodel the outer membrane, rendering bacteria resistant to colistin, a final resort against carbapenem-resistant pathogens. Structural and functional analyses of EptA and MCR-1 and -2 reveal parallel PE lipid substrate-recognizing cavities, which explains intrinsic and transferable colistin resistance in gut bacteria. A similar mechanism is proposed for the catalytic activities of EptA and MCR-1 and -2. Together, they constitute a common mechanism for intrinsic and transferable polymyxin resistance.
Vive la Persistence: Engineering Human Microbiomes in the 21st Century
Authors: Whiteson Katrine L.
Published: April 2018

I imagine a future in which children grow up with healthy microbial communities. Engineering human microbiomes might actually be achievable in the near future, as we enter an era of hunting for human-adapted bacterial strains and phages. Furthermore, breath metabolites could allow us to track whether a probiotic colonizes persistently or a phage has knocked down a microbe of interest.
Strengthening health district management competencies in Ghana, Tanzania and Uganda: lessons from using action research to improve health workforce performance
Authors: Martineau Tim , Raven Joanna , Aikins Moses , Alonso-Garbayo Alvaro , Baine Sebastian , Huss Reinhard , Maluka Stephen , Wyss Kaspar
Published: April 2018

Background

To achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC), more health workers are needed; also critical is supporting optimal performance of existing staff. Integrated human resource management (HRM) strategies, complemented by other health systems strategies, are needed to improve health workforce performance, which is possible at district level in decentralised contexts. To strengthen the capacity of district management teams to develop and implement workplans containing integrated strategies for workforce performance improvement, we introduced an action-research-based management strengthening intervention (MSI). This consisted of two workshops, follow-up by facilitators and meetings between participating districts. Although often used in the health sector, there is little evaluation of this approach in middle-income and low-income country contexts. The MSI was tested in three districts in Ghana, Tanzania and Uganda. This paper reports on the appropriateness of the MSI to the contexts and its effects.

Methods

Documentary evidence (workshop reports, workplans, diaries, follow-up visit reports) was collected throughout the implementation of the MSI in each district and interviews (50) and focus-group discussions (6) were conducted with managers at the end of the MSI. The findings were analysed using Kirkpatrick’s evaluation framework to identify effects at different levels.

Findings

The MSI was appropriate to the needs and work patterns of District Health Management Teams (DHMTs) in all contexts. DHMT members improved management competencies for problem analysis, prioritisation and integrated HRM and health systems strategy development. They learnt how to refine plans as more information became available and the importance of monitoring implementation. The MSI produced changes in team behaviours and confidence. There were positive results regarding workforce performance or service delivery; these would increase with repetition of the MSI.

Conclusions

The MSI is appropriate to the contexts where tested and can improve staff performance. However, for significant impact on service delivery and UHC, a method of scaling up and sustaining the MSI is required.
Sepsis recognition tools in acute ambulatory care: associations with process of care and clinical outcomes in a service evaluation of an Emergency Multidisciplinary Unit in Oxfordshire
Authors: Camm Christian Fielder , Hayward Gail , Elias Tania C N , Bowen Jordan S T , Hassanzadeh Roya , Fanshawe Thomas , Pendlebury Sarah T , Lasserson Daniel S
Published: April 2018

Objective

To assess the performance of currently available sepsis recognition tools in patients referred to a community-based acute ambulatory care unit.

Design

Service evaluation of consecutive patients over a 4-month period.

Setting

Community-based acute ambulatory care unit.

Data collection and outcome measures

Observations, blood results and outcome data were analysed from patients with a suspected infection. Clinical features at first assessment were used to populate sepsis recognition tools including: systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria, National Early Warning Score (NEWS), quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA) and National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) criteria. Scores were assessed against the clinical need for escalated care (use of intravenous antibiotics, fluids, ongoing ambulatory care or hospital treatment) and poor clinical outcome (all-cause mortality and readmission at 30 days after index assessment).

Results

Of 533 patients (median age 81 years), 316 had suspected infection with 120 patients requiring care escalated beyond simple community care. SIRS had the highest positive predictive value (50.9%, 95% CI 41.6% to 60.3%) and negative predictive value (68.9%, 95% CI 62.6% to 75.3%) for the need for escalated care. Both NEWS and SIRS were better at predicting the need for escalated care than qSOFA and NICE criteria in patients with suspected infection (all P<0.001). While new-onset confusion predicted the need for escalated care for infection in patients ≥85 years old (n=114), 23.7% of patients ≥85 years had new-onset confusion without evidence for infection.

Conclusions

Acute ambulatory care clinicians should use caution in applying the new NICE endorsed criteria for determining the need for intravenous therapy and hospital-based location of care. NICE criteria have poorer performance when compared against NEWS and SIRS and new-onset confusion was prevalent in patients aged ≥85 years without infection.
Systematic assessment of the growth plates of the wrist in young gymnasts: development and validation of the Amsterdam MRI assessment of the Physis (AMPHYS) protocol
Authors: Kox Laura S , Kraan Rik B J , van Dijke Kees F , Hemke Robert , Jens Sjoerd , de Jonge Milko C , Oei Edwin H G , Smithuis Frank F , Terra Maaike P , Maas Mario
Published: April 2018

Objectives

To develop and validate a protocol for MRI assessment of the distal radial and ulnar periphyseal area in gymnasts and non-gymnasts.

Methods

Twenty-four gymnasts with wrist pain, 18 asymptomatic gymnasts and 24 non-gymnastic controls (33 girls) underwent MRI of the wrist on a 3T scanner. Sequences included coronal proton density-weighted images with and without fat saturation, and three-dimensional water-selective cartilage scan and T2 Dixon series. Skeletal age was determined using hand radiographs. Three experienced musculoskeletal radiologists established a checklist of possible (peri)physeal abnormalities based on literature and clinical experience. Five other musculoskeletal radiologists and residents evaluated 30 MRI scans (10 from each group) using this checklist and reliability was determined using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Fleiss’ kappa. A final evaluation protocol was established containing only items with fair to excellent reliability.

Results

Twenty-seven items were assessed for reliability. Intra-rater and inter-rater agreement was good to excellent (respective ICCs 0.60–0.91 and 0.60–0.78) for four epiphyseal bone marrow oedema-related items, physeal signal intensity, metaphyseal junction and depth of metaphyseal intrusions. For physeal thickness, thickness compared with proximal physis of first metacarpal, metaphyseal intrusions, physeal connection of intrusions and metaphyseal bone marrow signal intensity, intra-rater agreement was fair to excellent (ICC/kappa 0.55–0.85) and inter-rater agreement was fair (ICC/kappa 0.41–0.59). Twelve items were included in the final protocol.

Conclusion

The Amsterdam MRI assessment of the Physis protocol facilitates patient-friendly and reliable assessment of the (peri)physeal area in the radius and ulna.
In vivobioassay to test the pathogenicity of missense humanAIPvariants
Authors: Aflorei Elena Daniela , Klapholz Benjamin , Chen Chenghao , Radian Serban , Dragu Anca Neluta , Moderau Nina , Prodromou Chrisostomos , Ribeiro Paulo S , Stanewsky Ralf , Korbonits Márta
Published: April 2018

Background

Heterozygous germline loss-of-function mutations in the aryl hydrocarbon receptor-interacting protein gene (AIP) predispose to childhood-onset pituitary tumours. The pathogenicity of missense variants may pose difficulties for genetic counselling and family follow-up.

Objective

To develop anin vivo system to test the pathogenicity of humanAIPmutations using the fruit flyDrosophila melanogaster.

Methods

We generated a null mutant of theDrosophila AIPorthologue,CG1847,a gene located on the Xchromosome, which displayed lethality at larval stage in hemizygous knockout male mutants (CG1847exon1_3). We tested human missense variants of ‘unknown significance’, with ‘pathogenic’ variants as positive control.

Results

We found that humanAIPcan functionally substitute forCG1847, as heterologous overexpression of humanAIPrescued maleCG1847exon1_3lethality, while a truncated version ofAIPdid not restore viability. Flies harbouring patient-specific missenseAIPvariants (p.C238Y, p.I13N, p.W73R and p.G272D) failed to rescueCG1847exon1_3mutants, while seven variants (p.R16H, p.Q164R, p.E293V, p.A299V, p.R304Q, p.R314W and p.R325Q) showed rescue, supporting a non-pathogenic role for these latter variants corresponding to prevalence and clinical data.

Conclusion

Ourin vivomodel represents a valuable tool to characterise putative disease-causing humanAIPvariants and assist the genetic counselling and management of families carryingAIPvariants.
Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy in children: a focused review of incidence and risk factors
Authors: Saxena Anurag , Jones Lliwen , Shankar Rohit , McLean Brendan , Newman Craig G J , Hamandi Khalid
Published: April 2018

Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) in children, although rare, needs critical attention given the tragic nature and devastating consequences for families and caregivers. True incidence is unknown and risk factors are not completely understood, more so in children compared with adults. A focused narrative review of available studies on paediatric SUDEP was undertaken to comprehend its risk factors and to develop strategies to recognise and where possible modify SUDEP risk and ultimately reduce incidence. We reviewed 16 population-based studies from various settings. We found overlapping risk factors from different studies. The prime risk factor is uncontrolled seizures. This review supports the view that children entering adolescence with optimal seizure control could be a key aspect in reducing adult mortality related to SUDEP. Ideally, clinicians would want to be able to predict prospective, individualised SUDEP risk, which is challenging due to a myriad of risk factors and an inherent non-homogeneous paediatric epilepsy population. Nevertheless, an adequate evidence base exists as evidenced by this review to support information giving and communication to support young people with epilepsy and their families in being active partners in recognising and reducing their SUDEP risk. More work particularly in the form of prospective studies and registries are needed to further clarify true incidence which may have been previously underestimated and to update risk factors.
Effectiveness of face masks used to protect Beijing residents against particulate air pollution
Authors: Cherrie John W , Apsley Andrew , Cowie Hilary , Steinle Susanne , Mueller William , Lin Chun , Horwell Claire J , Sleeuwenhoek Anne , Loh Miranda
Published: April 2018

Objectives

Many residents in Beijing use disposable face masks in an attempt to protect their health from high particulate matter (PM) concentrations. Retail masks may be certified to local or international standards, but their real-life performance may not confer the exposure reduction potential that is marketed. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a range of face masks that are commercially available in China.

Methods

Nine masks claiming protection against fine PM (PM2.5) were purchased from consumer outlets in Beijing. The masks’ filtration efficiency was tested by drawing airborne diesel exhaust through a section of the material and measuring the PM2.5 and black carbon (BC) concentrations upstream and downstream of the filtering medium. Four masks were selected for testing on volunteers. Volunteers were exposed to diesel exhaust inside an experimental chamber while performing sedentary tasks and active tasks. BC concentrations were continuously monitored inside and outside the mask.

Results

The mean per cent penetration for each mask material ranged from 0.26% to 29%, depending on the flow rate and mask material. In the volunteer tests, the average total inward leakage (TIL) of BC ranged from 3% to 68% in the sedentary tests and from 7% to 66% in the active tests. Only one mask type tested showed an average TIL of less than 10%, under both test conditions.

Conclusions

Many commercially available face masks may not provide adequate protection, primarily due to poor facial fit. Our results indicate that further attention should be given to mask design and providing evidence-based guidance to consumers.
When should screening of pediatric trauma patients for adult behaviors start?
Authors: Maung Adrian A , Becher Robert D , Schuster Kevin M , Davis Kimberly A
Published: April 2018

Background

Care of patients with trauma is not only limited to the sustained physical injuries but also requires addressing social issues, such as substance abuse and interpersonal violence, which are responsible for trauma-related recidivism. This study investigates whether there are age-related variations in these problematic social behaviors to analyze whether there is an age cut-off at which point adolescents should be screened for adult social behaviors.

Methods

Retrospective review of patients with trauma aged 12–21 admitted to an urban Level 1 adult and pediatric trauma center between February 2013 and April 2016. Demographics, mechanisms of injury, Injury Severity Score, outcomes, toxicology and social history evaluations were abstracted from the electronic medical record.

Results

756 patients were admitted during the 39-month period. Most patients were male (73.9%) without significant variation by age. The mechanisms of injury varied by age (p<0.001) with the incidence of sports and bicycle injuries decreasing and the incidence of motor vehicle/motorcycle crashes, assaults and gunshot injuries increasing with increasing patient age. In a logistic regression, risks of positive toxicology tests, injuries due to violence as well as overall use of drugs, tobacco and alcohol also significantly increased with age starting with the youngest age included in the study.

Conclusions

As pediatric trauma patients get older, they have increasing risks of social issues typically associated with adults. Our study underscores the need to evaluate and address these issues even in young adolescents.

Level of evidence

Level IV—epidemiological.
Traumatic pulmonary pseudocysts associated to pneumothorax and rib fractures in a dog
Authors: Barge Pablo , Fernández‐Del Palacio Maria Josefa , Santarelli Giorgia , Soler Marta , Agut Amalia
Published: April 2018

A two‐year‐old, 37 kg intact mixed‐breed dog was presented with lameness of the left pelvic limb after being hit by a car three days ago. The physical examination revealed tachypnoea with an abdominal restrictive respiratory pattern. Based on history of the patient and imaging findings a presumptive diagnosis of pneumothorax, rib fractures and traumatic pulmonary pseudocysts (TPP) was made. The patient was treated conservatively. One month later, thoracic radiograph showed only a pulmonary small nodule. TPPs are an uncommon complication after blunt thorax trauma but should be included in the differential diagnosis when cavitary pulmonary lesions are seen on thoracic radiograph or CT.
Seismic fragility analysis of pre-1975 conventional concrete frame buildings in Canada
Authors: Al Mamun Abdullah , Saatcioglu Murat
Published: April 2018

Fragility analysis was conducted for reinforced concrete frame buildings in Canada designed based on the 1965 National Building Code of Canada as representative of pre-1975 era of seismic design practice. Two-, five-, and ten-storey buildings were designed for Vancouver and Ottawa, representing buildings in high and medium seismic regions. They were modelled for inelastic response time history analysis, with respective inelastic hysteretic models for flexure and shear. Software PERFORM-3D was used to conduct incremental dynamic analysis under incrementally increasing earthquake intensity. Probabilistic analysis of the results of incremental dynamic analysis led to the development of fragility functions, which can be used as seismic vulnerability assessment tools. The results are compared with those generated for frame buildings designed on the basis of the 2010 NBCC. The comparison indicates that the probabilities of exceeding performance levels are significantly higher for older buildings relative to recently built fully ductile and moderately ductile buildings, respectively.
Assessment of sampling strategies utilizing auxiliary information in large-scale forest inventory
Authors: Räty Minna , Heikkinen Juha , Kangas Annika
Published: April 2018

The National Forest Inventory of Finland (NFI) produces national- and regional-level statistics for sustainability assessment and strategical-level decision making. So far, the regional-level statistics are based on a systematic sampling design with geographical stratification. Auxiliary information such as remote sensing is not used for design or estimation at the regional level, but it is used at the small-area level, i.e., for municipality-level results. To improve the cost efficiency of the NFI, possibilities for using auxiliary data in both the design and estimation are of interest. We assessed the improvements obtainable by using an interpreted satellite image — the multisource NFI result from a previous NFI — as auxiliary information in the design phase. The results show that even though the multisource NFI map is not very accurate, significant improvements in efficiency can be obtained by using either the local pivotal method (LPM) or stratification. LPM improves efficiency by matching the sample distribution to population distribution. These results encourage us to further investigate (i) what would be the improvement with more accurate auxiliary information, for example, laser scanning data, and (ii) how LPM fits in a real-life situation where part of the plots are permanent and it would be used to select only the temporary plots.
CO463 corn inbred line
Authors: Reid L.M. , Voloaca C. , Wu J. , Woldemariam T. , Jindal K.K. , Jindal M.M. , Zhu X.
Published: April 2018

CO463 is a short-season corn (Zea mays L.) inbred line with excellent combining ability with both Iodent and stiff stalk inbred testers, as well as intermediate resistance to common rust, eyespot, common smut, and Fusarium stalk rot.
Nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide emissions from surface and subsurface drip irrigated tomato fields
Authors: Edwards K.P. , Madramootoo C.A. , Whalen J.K. , Adamchuk V.I. , Mat Su A.S. , Benslim H.
Published: April 2018

Irrigation practices change the soil moisture in agricultural fields and influence emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG). A 2 yr field study was conducted to assess carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from surface and subsurface drip irrigated tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) fields on a loamy sand in southern Ontario. Surface and subsurface drip irrigation are common irrigation practices used by tomato growers in southern Ontario. The N2O fluxes were generally ≤50 μg N2O-N m−2 h−1, with mean cumulative emissions ranging between 352 ± 83 and 486 ± 138 mg N2O-N m−2. No significant difference in N2O emissions between the two drip irrigation practices was found in either study year. Mean CO2 fluxes ranged from 22 to 160 mg CO2-C m2 h−1 with cumulative fluxes between 188 ± 42 and 306 ± 31 g CO2-C m−2. Seasonal CO2 emissions from surface drip irrigation were significantly greater than subsurface drip irrigation in both years, likely attributed to sampling time temperature differences. We conclude that these irrigation methods did not have a direct effect on the GHG emissions from tomato fields in this study. Therefore, both irrigation methods are expected to have similar environmental impacts and are recommended to growers.
Modulated wave formation in myocardial cells under electromagnetic radiation
Authors: Takembo Clovis N. , Mvogo A. , Ekobena Fouda H. P. , Kofané T. C.
Published: April 2018

We exclusively analyze the onset and condition of formation of modulated waves in a diffusive FitzHugh–Nagumo model for myocardial cell excitations. The cells are connected through gap junction coupling. An additive magnetic flux variable is used to describe the effect of electromagnetic induction, while electromagnetic radiation is imposed on the magnetic flux variable as a periodic forcing. We used the discrete multiple scale expansion and obtained, from the model equations, a single differential-difference amplitude nonlinear equation. We performed the linear stability analysis of this equation and found that instability features are importantly influenced by the induced electromagnetic gain. We present the unstable and stable regions of modulational instability (MI). The resulting analytic predictions are confirmed by numerical experiments of the generic equations. The results reveal that due to MI, an initial steady state that consisted of a plane wave with low amplitude evolves into a modulated localized wave patterns, soliton-like in shape, with features of synchronization. Furthermore, the formation of periodic pulse train with breathing motion presents a disappearing pattern in the presence of electromagnetic radiation. This could provide guidance and better understanding of sudden heart failure exposed to heavily electromagnetic radiation.
First-principles study on the electronic structure and elastic properties of Mo2NiB2doped with V
Authors: Li Jinming , Li Xiaobo , Gao Haiyun , Peng Dian
Published: April 2018

The content of this study is to analyze the electronic structure and elastic properties that the different structures of Mo2NiB2and doping with V of the tetragonal M3B2(Mo2Ni[Formula: see text]V[Formula: see text]B2and Mo[Formula: see text]Ni[Formula: see text]V[Formula: see text]B2) (x = 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and y = 0.125, 0.25, 0.375) by first-principles calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) combined with the projection-plus-wave method. But the calculated formation energy shows that V atoms prefer to substitute the Mo and Ni atoms of the tetragonal Mo2NiB2. Moreover, with the increase of V content, the formation enthalpy of tetragonal Mo2NiB2is reduced, and the formation enthalpy of Mo[Formula: see text]Ni[Formula: see text]V[Formula: see text]B2is the least as −53.23 kJ/mol. The calculated elastic constant suffices the condition of mechanical stability, indicate that they are stable. The calculated elastic modulus illustrates that Mo2NiB2having better mechanical properties when V elements are at Mo and Ni sites instead of Ni sites. The calculated and analyzed density of states of Mo[Formula: see text]Ni[Formula: see text]V[Formula: see text]B2has the smallest the density of states at the Fermi level indicating that it has the more stable structure. For the theoretical analysis of the first-principles calculations, the addition of 15 atom% of the V and V doping modes of Mo and Ni are preferentially replaced by V atoms of Mo2NiB2ternary boride has the best performance.
On the role of heat and mass transfer into laser processability during selective laser melting AlSi12 alloy based on a randomly packed powder-bed
Authors: Wang Lianfeng , Yan Biao , Guo Lijie , Gu Dongdong
Published: April 2018

A newly transient mesoscopic model with a randomly packed powder-bed has been proposed to investigate the heat and mass transfer and laser process quality between neighboring tracks during selective laser melting (SLM) AlSi12 alloy by finite volume method (FVM), considering the solid/liquid phase transition, variable temperature-dependent properties and interfacial force. The results apparently revealed that both the operating temperature and resultant cooling rate were obviously elevated by increasing the laser power. Accordingly, the resultant viscosity of liquid significantly reduced under a large laser power and was characterized with a large velocity, which was prone to result in a more intensive convection within pool. In this case, the sufficient heat and mass transfer occurred at the interface between the previously fabricated tracks and currently building track, revealing a strongly sufficient spreading between the neighboring tracks and a resultant high-quality surface without obvious porosity. By contrast, the surface quality of SLM-processed components with a relatively low laser power notably weakened due to the limited and insufficient heat and mass transfer at the interface of neighboring tracks. Furthermore, the experimental surface morphologies of the top surface were correspondingly acquired and were in full accordance to the calculated results via simulation.
A Developed Structure for DC–DC Quasi-Z-Source Converter with High Voltage Gain and High Reliability
Authors: Babaei Ebrahim , Zarbil Mohammad Shadnam , Asl Elias Shokati
Published: April 2018

In this paper, a developed structure for DC–DC quasi-Z-source (QZS) converters is proposed. First, the proposed two-stage structure is presented and analyzed. Then, the proposed structure is extended to [Formula: see text] stages and its relations are calculated. Compared with other conventional structures, the proposed structure has higher voltage gain and higher reliability. The proposed topology is suitable for high power applications. To have the correct performance of conventional QZS converter, all impedance network elements must be intact. In the case of small failure in one of the elements, the operation of the whole system is disrupted. The proposed structure has high reliability because when one stage fails, the fault management system separates that stage from the other stages and the remaining stages continue to transmit power. In this paper, in addition to analyzing the operation of the proposed converter in different operating modes, calculations of voltage gain, voltage stresses across capacitors and reliability analysis are also presented. Reliability is calculated according to well-known Markov model. Moreover, a comprehensive comparison in terms of voltage gain and reliability is made between the proposed converter and the other conventional structures. Also, the rating values of inductors and capacitors are designed. Finally, experimental and simulation results are presented by using power system computer-aided design (PSCAD) software to verify the theories.
A Simple Harmonic Reduction Method in 20-Pulse AC–DC Converter
Authors: Abdollahi Rohollah
Published: April 2018

This paper proposes a simple and passive harmonic reduction method at dc link of 20-pulse rectifier. The 20-pulse topology is obtained via two paralleled 10-pulse ac–dc converters, each of them consisting of a five-phase (five-leg) diode bridge rectifier. For independent operation of the paralleled diode-bridge rectifiers, a zero sequence blocking transformer (ZSBT) is designed and implemented. Connection of a tapped inter-phase transformer (IPT) at the output of the ZSBT results in doubling the number of the output voltage pulses. The application of the pulse doubling technique with a low power rating (2% of the load power rating) results in a simpler and more economical configuration of the whole system and increased number of pulses. The design is suitable for retrofit applications where a six-pulse diode bridge rectifier is being utilized. The proposed structure is simulated using Matlab/Simulink software under different loading conditions. The simulation results confirm the significant improvement of the power quality indices (IEEE-519 standard requirements) at the point of common coupling (PCC). Experimental results are obtained using the designed and constructed laboratory prototype of the proposed converter to validate the design procedure and the simulation results. The VA rating of the magnetic circuit is calculated to confirm the savings in space, volume, weight and cost of the proposed configuration.
ECG Signal In-Band Noise De-Noising Base on EMD
Authors: Xiong Hui , Zheng Chunhou , Liu Jinzhen , Song Limei
Published: April 2018

The electrocardiogram (ECG) signal is widely used for diagnosis of heart disorders. However, ECG signal is a kind of weak signal to be interfered with heavy background interferences. Moreover, there are some overlaps between the interference frequency sub-bands and the ECG frequency sub-bands, so it is difficult to inhibit noise in the ECG signal. In this paper, the ECG signal in-band noise de-noising method based on empirical mode decomposition (EMD) is proposed. This method uses random permutation to process intrinsic mode functions (IMFs). It abstracts QRS complexes to separate them from noise so that the clean ECG signal is obtained. The method is validated through simulations on the MIT-BIH Arrhythmia Database and experiments on the measured test data. The results indicate that the proposed method can restrain noise, improve signal noise ratio (SNR) and reduce mean squared error (MSE) effectively.
A Carry Chain-Based ADMFC Design on an FPGA for EMI Reduction and Noise Compensation
Authors: Dam Minh Tung , Nguyen Van Toan , Lee Jeong-Gun
Published: April 2018

An all-digital multi-frequency clocking (ADMFC) circuit is proposed to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) on a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) architecture, while supporting dynamic adaptation to voltage noises. The proposed ADMFC uses dedicated high-speed carry chain paths in an FPGA to finely adjust the clock frequency by controlling the number of carry propagations on the carry chain logics (CARRY4 cells) in the delay line of a ring oscillator. Moreover, supply voltage variation and noise caused by circuit switchings can be compensated by dynamically adjusting the length of ripple carry propagations on the cascaded CARRY4 cells in response to the detected voltage variation. Finally, a selectable modulation profile is devised to provide a much suitable profile between two different profiles at run-time for the given noise constraints and working environment of a chip. Measurement results show that at the frequency of 44.6[Formula: see text]MHz, the ADMFC can obtain 17[Formula: see text]dB and 19.4[Formula: see text]dB EMI attenuations with a 7.5% spreading ratio when using triangular and sawtooth profiles, respectively. The proposed ADMFC is suitable for applications such as biological sensor nodes or IoT related systems which typically operate at a low-frequency band.
New perspective of Grodzins E × B(E2) ↑ product rule
Authors: Gupta J. B. , Katoch Vikas
Published: April 2018

In the collective spectra of atomic nuclei, the level energy [Formula: see text] varies with atomic number [Formula: see text] and neutron number [Formula: see text]. Also the [Formula: see text]2 decay-reduced transition probability [Formula: see text] is related to the energy [Formula: see text]. The product [Formula: see text] is constant according to Grodzins product rule, independent of the vibration or rotational status of the nucleus. The product rule is often used for determining [Formula: see text] from the known [Formula: see text]. However, the variation of the product with various parameters is also suggested in the literature. Hence, a detailed global study of this rule for [Formula: see text] region is warranted. We use a novel method of displaying the linear relation of [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] for the isotopes of each element (Xe–Pt), instead of their variation with [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text]. Through our work, we firmly establish the global validity of the Grodzins relation of [Formula: see text], being proportional to the moment of inertia, except for the deviation in specific cases. Our [Formula: see text] versus [Formula: see text] plots provide a transparent view of the variation of the low-energy nuclear structure. This gives a new perspective of their nuclear structure. Also the various theoretical interpretations of [Formula: see text]s and the energy [Formula: see text] are reviewed.
Production of Entanglement Entropy by Decoherence
Authors: Merkli M. , Berman G. P. , Sayre R. T. , Wang X. , Nesterov A. I.
Published: April 2018

We examine the dynamics of entanglement entropy of all parts in an open system consisting of a two-level dimer interacting with an environment of oscillators. The dimer-environment interaction is almost energy conserving. We find the precise link between decoherence and production of entanglement entropy. We show that not all environment oscillators carry significant entanglement entropy and we identify the oscillator frequency regions which contribute to the production of entanglement entropy. For energy conserving dimer-environment interactions the models are explicitly solvable and our results hold for all dimer-environment coupling strengths. We carry out a mathematically rigorous perturbation theory around the energy conserving situation in the presence of small non-energy conserving interactions.
A Maximal Entropy Distribution Derivation of the Sharma-Taneja-Mittal Entropic Form
Authors: Scarfone Antonio M.
Published: April 2018

In this letter we derive the distribution maximizing the Sharma-Taneja-Mittal entropy under certain constrains by using an information inequality satisfied by the Br`egman divergence associated to this entropic form. The resulting maximal entropy distribution coincides with the one derived from the calculus according to the maximal entropy principle à la Jaynes.
Leggett-Garg Inequality for a Two-Level System under Decoherence
Authors: Shahmansoori Nasim , Shafiee Afshin
Published: April 2018

We consider a macroscopic quantum system subjected to an asymmetric double-well potential in a harmonic environment. By using a time-dependent approach, we calculate tunnelling probabilities for the system which contain oscillation effects. To show how one can decide between quantum mechanics and the implications of macrorealism assumptions, a given form of Leggett-Garg inequality is considered. The violation of this inequality occurs for a broader range of the system-environment interactions, compared to previous results obtained for two-level systems. Assuming that the coupling strength between the system and the environment can be controlled with time, one can see the violation even for strong decoherence effects. We also investigate the variation of the tilt/tunnelling parameters on the violation of Leggett-Garg inequality.
Synthesis and Photocatalytic Properties of SnSe2/Se Heterojunction Films
Authors: Li Jing , Zhao Hongxiao , Lei Yan , Yang Qingyuan , Zheng Zhi
Published: April 2018

SnSe2/Se heterojunction films were successfully grown on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) glass for the first time via a one-step solvothermal route using magnetron sputtered Sn metallic precursors, Se powders as selenium source, cyclohexanol as solvent and cyclohexanol as auxiliary solvent, respectively. The SnSe2/Se heterojunction films consisted of Se nanoparticles or nanorods cluster and SnSe2 network surface layers. The crystalline phase and morphology of SnSe2/Se films were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), respectively. The photocatalysis measurements of the products for rhodamine Blue (RhB) demonstrated that SnSe2/Se heterojunction films revealed better dye degradation properties than SnSe2 nanosheet films due to the higher separation rates of photogenerated electron–hole pairs of SnSe2/Se heterojunction films, which can be confirmed by surface transient photovoltage (TPV) analyzer.
Hidden variable bivariate fractal interpolation functions and errors on perturbations of function vertical scaling factors
Authors: Yun Chol-Hui , Ri Mi-Kyong
Published: April 2018

In this paper, we present a construction of hidden variable bivariate fractal interpolation functions (HVBFIFs) with function vertical scaling factors and estimate errors of HVBFIFs on perturbation of the function vertical scaling factor. We construct HVBFIFs on the basis of the iterated function system (IFS) with function vertical scaling factors. The perturbation of the function vertical scaling factors in the IFS causes a change in the HVBFIF. An upper estimation of the errors between the original HVBFIF and the perturbed HVBFIF is given.
Structural and AC electrical properties study of solid metal urea complexes
Authors: Mahani Ragab , Mekky Saleh D. , El Sayed Badr A. , EL-Bahy Gamal S. , Ward Azza
Published: April 2018

The complexation of solid urea with (Co[Formula: see text]), (Cu[Formula: see text]) or (Ni[Formula: see text]) ions has been studied by using dielectric spectroscopy technique over a wide frequency range at different temperatures. Samples' structure were investigated by XRD, FTIR and FT-Raman spectroscopy. FTIR and Raman analysis indicated that the urea coordinates with the metal atoms through the same oxygen–metal bond (O–M). Furthermore, XRD analysis showed that the samples have polycrystalline structure with single phase. The permittivity of complexes was found at much higher values than that of the ligand (pure urea), showing structure dependency. Furthermore, two relaxation peaks were observed in the dielectric loss spectra corresponding to the orientation polarization of urea molecule, and some parts of urea molecule may be NH2 groups. Both relaxation peaks correspond to thermally activated because they were shifted to higher frequency with the temperature increase. The peak position for the low frequency relaxation peak was observed at the same relaxation time ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text]s), corresponding to the coordination mode through the same O–M bond. Novelty of this work is the successful finding of the relationship between the crystalline phase, coordination mode and the dynamic molecular behavior of solid urea and its complexes using the dielectric spectroscopy technique.
Optimal Hedge Tracking Portfolios in a Limit Order Book
Authors: Ellersgaard Simon , Tegnér Martin
Published: April 2018

Derivative hedging under transaction costs has attracted considerable attention over the past three decades. Yet comparatively little effort has been made towards integrating this problem in the context of trading through a limit order book. In this paper, we propose a simple model for a wealth-optimizing option seller, who hedges his position using a combination of limit and market orders, while facing certain constraints as to how far he can deviate from a targeted (Bachelierian) delta strategy. By translating the control problem into a three-dimensional Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman quasi-variational inequality (HJB QVI) and solving numerically, we are able to deduce optimal limit order quotes alongside the regions surrounding the targeted delta surface in which the option seller must place limit orders vis-à-vis the more aggressive market orders. Our scheme is shown to be monotone, stable, and consistent and thence, modulo a comparison principle, convergent in the viscosity sense.
The new features of Fortran 2018
Authors: Reid John
Published: April 2018

The aim of this paper is to summarize the new features of the Fortran standard that is expected to be published in 2018. It was known informally as Fortran 2015 because the choice of features to include was made in 2015, but WG5 has decided to rename it Fortran 2018 to reflect the date of publication. We take as our starting point Fortran 2008 (ISO/IEC 2010)Two official extensions have been published as Technical Specifications. ISO/IEC (2012) specifies further features for interoperability of Fortran with C and ISO/IEC (2015) specifies additional parallel features. WG5 committed itself to include both of these in Fortran 2018. The introduction of a new IEEE standard for floating-point arithmetic (ISO/IEC/IEEE 2011) necessitated changes to the IEEE modules. Beyond these features, WG5 decided to limit changes to the removal of deficiencies and discrepancies, which by definition are all small.
Hiding in Plain Sight: Rediscovering the Importance of Noncoding RNA in Human Malignancy
Authors: Feeley Kyle P. , Edmonds Mick D.
Published: April 2018

At the time of its construction in the 1950s, the central dogma of molecular biology was a useful model that represented the current state of knowledge for the flow of genetic information after a period of prolific scientific discovery. Unknowingly, it also biased many of our assumptions going forward. Whether intentional or not, genomic elements not fitting into this paradigm were deemed unimportant and emphasis on the study of protein-coding genes prevailed for decades. The phrase “Junk DNA,” first popularized in the 1960s, is still used with alarming frequency to describe the entirety of noncoding DNA. It has since become apparent that RNA molecules not coding for protein are vitally important in both normal development and human malignancy. Cancer researchers have been pioneers in determining noncoding RNA function and developing new technologies to study these molecules. In this review, we will discuss well known and newly emerging species of noncoding RNAs, their functions in cancer, and new technologies being utilized to understand their mechanisms of action in cancer. Cancer Res; 78(9); 2149–58. ©2018 AACR.
Identification and Validation of a 3-Gene Methylation Classifier for HPV-Based Cervical Screening on Self-Samples
Authors: Verlaat Wina , Snoek Barbara C. , Heideman Daniëlle A.M. , Wilting Saskia M. , Snijders Peter J.F. , Novianti Putri W. , van Splunter Annina P. , Peeters Carel F.W. , van Trommel Nienke E. , Massuger Leon F.A.G. , Bekkers Ruud L.M. , Melchers Willem J.G. , van Kemenade Folkert J. , Berkhof Johannes , van de Wiel Mark A. , Meijer Chris J.L.M. , Steenbergen Renske D.M.
Published: April 2018

Purpose: Offering self-sampling of cervico-vaginal material for high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) testing is an effective method to increase the coverage in cervical screening programs. Molecular triage directly on hrHPV-positive self-samples for colposcopy referral opens the way to full molecular cervical screening. Here, we set out to identify a DNA methylation classifier for detection of cervical precancer (CIN3) and cancer, applicable to lavage and brush self-samples.

Experimental Design: We determined genome-wide DNA methylation profiles of 72 hrHPV-positive self-samples, using the Infinium Methylation 450K Array. The selected DNA methylation markers were evaluated by multiplex quantitative methylation-specific PCR (qMSP) in both hrHPV-positive lavage (n = 245) and brush (n = 246) self-samples from screening cohorts. Subsequently, logistic regression analysis was performed to build a DNA methylation classifier for CIN3 detection applicable to self-samples of both devices. For validation, an independent set of hrHPV-positive lavage (n = 199) and brush (n = 287) self-samples was analyzed.

Results: Genome-wide DNA methylation profiling revealed 12 DNA methylation markers for CIN3 detection. Multiplex qMSP analysis of these markers in large series of lavage and brush self-samples yielded a 3-gene methylation classifier (ASCL1, LHX8, and ST6GALNAC5). This classifier showed a very good clinical performance for CIN3 detection in both lavage (AUC = 0.88; sensitivity = 74%; specificity = 79%) and brush (AUC = 0.90; sensitivity = 88%; specificity = 81%) self-samples in the validation set. Importantly, all self-samples from women with cervical cancer scored DNA methylation–positive.

Conclusions: By genome-wide DNA methylation profiling on self-samples, we identified a highly effective 3-gene methylation classifier for direct triage on hrHPV-positive self-samples, which is superior to currently available methods. Clin Cancer Res; 24(14); 3456–64. ©2018 AACR.
The Effect of SH2B1 Variants on Expression of Leptin- and Insulin-Induced Pathways in Murine Hypothalamus
Authors: Giuranna Johanna , Volckmar Anna-Lena , Heinen Anna , Peters Triinu , Schmidt Börge , Spieker Anne , Straub Helena , Grallert Harald , Müller Timo D. , Antel Jochen , Haußmann Ute , Klafki Hans , Rui Liangyou , Hebebrand Johannes , Hinney Anke
Published: April 2018

Objective: We aimed to determine the effect of human SH2B1 variants on leptin and insulin signaling, major regulators of energy homeostasis, on the RNA level. Methods: We analyzed the expression of infrequent alleles of seven SH2B1 variants (Arg67Cys, Lys150Arg, Thr175Ala, Thr343Met, Thr484Ala, Ser616Pro and Pro689Leu) in response to insulin or leptin cell stimulation. Two of these were identified in own mutation screens, the others were predicted to be deleterious or to serve as controls. The variants were analyzed in a homologous system of mouse hypothalamic cells. Changes in expression of downstream genes were measured. Student’s t-test for independent samples was applied and effect sizes using Cohen’s d were calculated. Results: In 34 of 54 analyzed genes involved in leptin (JAK/STAT or AKT) signaling, variants nominally changed expression. The expression of three genes was considerably increased (p values ≤ 0.001: Gbp2b (67Cys; d = 25.11), Irf9 (689Leu; d = 44.65) and Isg15 (150Arg; d = 20.35)). Of 32 analyzed genes in the insulin signaling pathway, the expression of 10 genes nominally changed (p ≤ 0.05), three resulted in p values ≤ 0.01 (Cap1 (150Arg; d = 7.48), Mapk1(343Met; d = –6.80) and Sorbs1 (689Leu; d = 7.82)). Conclusion: The increased expression of genes in leptin (JAK/STAT or AKT) signaling implies that the main mode of action for human SH2B1 mutations might affect leptin signaling rather than insulin signaling.