bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brincidofovir (CMX001) Inhibits BK Polyomavirus Replication in Primary Human Urothelial Cells
Authors: Tylden Garth D. , Hirsch Hans H. , Rinaldo Christine Hanssen
Published: March 2015

BK polyomavirus (BKPyV)-associated hemorrhagic cystitis (PyVHC) complicates 5 to 15% of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantations. Targeted antivirals are still unavailable. Brincidofovir (BCV; previously CMX001) has shown inhibitory activity against diverse viruses, including BKPyV in a primary human renal tubule cell culture model of polyomavirus-associated nephropathy. We investigated the effects of BCV in BKPyV-infected and uninfected primary human urothelial cells (HUCs), the target cells of BKPyV in PyVHC. The BCV concentrations causing 50 and 90% reductions (EC
50
and EC
90
) in the number of intracellular BKPyV genome equivalents per cell (icBKPyV) were 0.27 μM and 0.59 μM, respectively. At 0.63 μM, BCV reduced viral late gene expression by 90% and halted progeny release. Preinfection treatment for only 24 h reduced icBKPyV similarly to treatment from 2 to 72 h postinfection, while combined pre- and postinfection treatment suppressed icBKPyV completely. After investigating BCV's effects on HUC viability, mean selectivity indices at 50 and 90% inhibition (SI
50
and SI
90
) calculated for cellular DNA replication were 2.7 and 2.9, respectively, those for mitochondrial activity were 8.9 and 10.4, those for total ATP were 8.6 and 8.2, and those for membrane integrity were 25.9 and 16.7. The antiviral and cytostatic effects, but less so the cytotoxic effects, were inversely related to cell density. The cytotoxic effects at concentrations of ≥10 μM were rapid and likely related to BCV's lipid moiety. After carefully defining the antiviral, cytostatic, and cytotoxic properties of BCV in HUCs, we conclude that a preemptive or prophylactic approach in PyVHC is likely to give the best results.
Sodium Nitrite Blocks the Activity of Aminoglycosides against Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilms
Authors: Zemke Anna C. , Gladwin Mark T. , Bomberger Jennifer M.
Published: March 2015

Sodium nitrite has broad antimicrobial activity at pH 6.5, including the ability to prevent biofilm growth by
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
on the surfaces of airway epithelial cells. Because of its antimicrobial activity, nitrite is being investigated as an inhaled agent for chronic
P. aeruginosa
airway infections in cystic fibrosis patients. However, the interaction between nitrite and commonly used aminoglycosides is unknown. This paper investigates the interaction between nitrite and tobramycin in liquid culture, abiotic biofilms, and a biotic biofilm model simulating the conditions in the cystic fibrosis airway. The addition of nitrite prevented killing by aminoglycosides in liquid culture, with dose dependence between 1.5 and 15 mM. The effect was not blocked by the nitric oxide scavenger CPTIO or dependent on efflux pump activity. Nitrite shifted the biofilm minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC-biofilm) from 256 μg/ml to >1,024 μg/ml in an abiotic biofilm model. In a biotic biofilm model, the addition of 50 mM nitrite decreased the antibiofilm activity of tobramycin by up to 1.2 log. Respiratory chain inhibition recapitulated the inhibition of aminoglycoside activity by nitrite, suggesting a potential mechanism of inhibition of energy-dependent aminoglycoside uptake. In summary, sodium nitrite induces resistance to both gentamicin and tobramycin in
P. aeruginosa
grown in liquid culture, as an abiotic biofilm, or as a biotic biofilm.
Evaluation of α,β-Unsaturated Ketones as Antileishmanial Agents
Authors: Vasquez Miguel A. , Iniguez Eva , Das Umashankar , Beverley Stephen M. , Herrera Linda J. , Dimmock Jonathan R. , Maldonado Rosa A.
Published: March 2015

In this study, we assessed the antileishmanial activity of 126 α,β-unsaturated ketones. The compounds NC901, NC884, and NC2459 showed high leishmanicidal activity for both the extracellular (50% effective concentration [EC
50
], 456 nM, 1,122 nM, and 20 nM, respectively) and intracellular (EC
50
, 1,870 nM, 937 nM, and 625 nM, respectively) forms of
Leishmania major
propagated in macrophages, with little or no toxicity to mammalian cells. Bioluminescent imaging of parasite replication showed that all three compounds reduced the parasite burden in the murine model, with no apparent toxicity.
High Prevalence of
bla
NDM-1
Carbapenemase-Encoding Gene and 16S rRNA
armA
Methyltransferase Gene among Acinetobacter baumannii Clinical Isolates in Egypt
Authors: El-Sayed-Ahmed Mohamed Abd El-Gawad , Amin Magdy Ali , Tawakol Wael Mustafa , Loucif Lotfi , Bakour Sofiane , Rolain Jean-Marc
Published: March 2015

The main objective of this study was to decipher the molecular mechanism of resistance to carbapenems and aminoglycosides in a large series of 150
Acinetobacter baumannii
clinical isolates collected from July 2012 to September 2013 in Egypt. We report for the first time the emergence of
bla
NDM-1
and the cooccurrence of 16S rRNA methylase
armA
with
bla
NDM-1
and
bla
OXA-23
in Egyptian hospitals. Multilocus sequence typing identified 27 distinct sequence types, 11 of which were novel.
In Vitro
Fungicidal Activities of Anidulafungin, Caspofungin, and Micafungin against Candida glabrata, Candida bracarensis, and Candida nivariensis Evaluated by Time-Kill Studies
Authors: Gil-Alonso Sandra , Jauregizar Nerea , Cantón Emilia , Eraso Elena , Quindós Guillermo
Published: March 2015

Anidulafungin, caspofungin, and micafungin killing activities against
Candida glabrata
,
Candida bracarensis
, and
Candida nivariensis
were evaluated by the time-kill methodology. The concentrations assayed were 0.06, 0.125, and 0.5 μg/ml, which are achieved in serum. Anidulafungin and micafungin required between 13 and 26 h to reach the fungicidal endpoint (99.9% killing) against
C. glabrata
and
C. bracarensis
. All echinocandins were less active against
C. nivariensis
.
Influence of
ABCC2
and
ABCC4
Polymorphisms on Tenofovir Plasma Concentrations in Thai HIV-Infected Patients
Authors: Rungtivasuwan Kanokrat , Avihingsanon Anchalee , Thammajaruk Narukjaporn , Mitruk Siwaporn , Burger David M. , Ruxrungtham Kiat , Punyawudho Baralee , Pengsuparp Thitima
Published: March 2015

Tenofovir (TFV) is eliminated by renal excretion, which is mediated through multidrug-resistant protein 2 (MRP2) and MRP4, encoded by
ABCC2
and
ABCC4
, respectively. Genetic polymorphisms of these transporters may affect the plasma concentrations of tenofovir. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the influence of genetic and nongenetic factors on tenofovir plasma concentrations. A cross-sectional study was performed in Thai HIV-infected patients aged ≥18 years who had been receiving tenofovir disoproxil fumarate at 300 mg once daily for at least 6 months. A middose tenofovir plasma concentration was obtained. Multivariate analysis was performed to investigate whether there was an association between tenofovir plasma concentrations and demographic data, including age, sex, body weight, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), hepatitis B virus coinfection, hepatitis C virus coinfection, duration of tenofovir treatment, concomitant use of ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitors, and polymorphisms of
ABCC2
and
ABCC4
. A total of 150 Thai HIV-infected patients were included. The mean age of the patients was 43.9 ± 7.2 years. The mean tenofovir plasma concentration was 100.3 ± 52.7 ng/ml. In multivariate analysis, a low body weight, a low eGFR, the concomitant use of ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitors, and the
ABCC4
4131T → G variation (genotype TG or GG) were independently associated with higher tenofovir plasma concentrations. After adjusting for weight, eGFR, and the concomitant use of ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitors, a 30% increase in the mean tenofovir plasma concentration was observed in patients having the
ABCC4
4131 TG or GG genotype. Both genetic and nongenetic factors affect tenofovir plasma concentrations. These factors should be considered when adjusting tenofovir dosage regimens to ensure the efficacy and safety of a drug. (This study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under registration no. NCT01138241.)
Pharmacokinetics of a Novel Sublingual Spray Formulation of the Antimalarial Drug Artemether in African Children with Malaria
Authors: Salman Sam , Bendel Daryl , Lee Toong C. , Templeton David , Davis Timothy M. E.
Published: March 2015

The pharmacokinetics of sublingual artemether (ArTiMist) was investigated in 91 young African children with severe malaria or who could not tolerate oral antimalarial therapy. Each received 3.0 mg/kg of body weight of artemether at 0, 8, 24, 36, 48, and 60 h or until the initiation of oral treatment. Few blood samples were drawn postdose. Plasma artemether and dihydroartemisinin (DHA) levels were measured using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, and the data were analyzed using established population compartmental pharmacokinetic models. Parasite clearance was prompt (median parasite clearance time, 24 h), and there were no serious adverse events. Consistent with studies in healthy adults (S. Salman, D. Bendel, T. C. Lee, D. Templeton, and T. M. E. Davis, Antimicrob Agents Chemother 59:3197–3207, 2015,
http://dx.doi.org/10.1128/AAC.05013-14
), the absorption of sublingual artemether was biphasic, and multiple dosing was associated with the autoinduction of the metabolism of artemether to DHA (which itself has potent antimalarial activity). In contrast to studies using healthy volunteers, pharmacokinetic modeling indicated that the first absorption phase did not avoid first-pass metabolism, suggesting that the drug is transferred to the upper intestine through postdose fluid/food intake. Simulations using the present data and those from an earlier study in older Melanesian children with uncomplicated malaria treated with artemether-lumefantrine tablets suggested that the bioavailability of sublingual artemether was at least equivalent to that after conventional oral artemether-lumefantrine (median [interquartile range] areas under the concentration-time curve for artemether, 3,403 [2,471 to 4,771] versus 3,063 [2,358 to 4,514] μg · h/liter, respectively; and for DHA, 2,958 [2,146 to 4,278] versus 2,839 [1,812 to 3,488] μg · h/liter, respectively;
P
≥ 0.42). These findings suggest that sublingual artemether could be used as prereferral treatment for sick children before transfer for definitive management of severe or moderately severe malaria.
Roles of Reactive Oxygen Species-Degrading Enzymes of Francisella tularensis SCHU S4
Authors: Binesse Johan , Lindgren Helena , Lindgren Lena , Conlan Wayne , Sjöstedt Anders
Published: March 2015

Francisella tularensisis a facultative intracellular bacterium utilizing macrophages as its primary intracellular habitat and is therefore highly capable of resisting the effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS), potent mediators of the bactericidal activity of macrophages. We investigated the roles of enzymes presumed to be important for protection against ROS. Four mutants of the highly virulent SCHU S4 strain with deletions of the genes encoding catalase (katG), glutathione peroxidase (gpx), a DyP-type peroxidase (FTT0086), or double deletion ofFTT0086andkatGshowed much increased susceptibility to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and slightly increased susceptibility to paraquat but not to peroxynitrite (ONOO−) and displayed intact intramacrophage replication. Nevertheless, mice infected with the double deletion mutant showed significantly longer survival than SCHU S4-infected mice. Unlike the aforementioned mutants, deletion of the gene coding for alkyl-hydroperoxide reductase subunit C (ahpC) generated a mutant much more susceptible to paraquat and ONOO−but not to H2O2. It showed intact replication in J774 cells but impaired replication in bone marrow-derived macrophages and in internal organs of mice. The live vaccine strain, LVS, is more susceptible than virulent strains to ROS-mediated killing and possesses a truncated form of FTT0086. Expression of the SCHU S4FTT0086gene rendered LVS more resistant to H2O2, which demonstrates that the SCHU S4 strain possesses additional detoxifying mechanisms. Collectively, the results demonstrate that SCHU S4 ROS-detoxifying enzymes have overlapping functions, and therefore, deletion of one or the other does not critically impair the intracellular replication or virulence, although AhpC appears to have a unique function.
Reassessment of the Genetic Regulation of Fatty Acid Synthesis in Escherichia coli: Global Positive Control by the Dual Functional Regulator FadR
Authors: My L. , Ghandour Achkar N. , Viala J. P. , Bouveret E.
Published: March 2015

InEscherichia coli, the FadR transcriptional regulator represses the expression of fatty acid degradation (fad) genes. However, FadR is also an activator of the expression offabAandfabB, two genes involved in unsaturated fatty acid synthesis. Therefore, FadR plays an important role in maintaining the balance between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids in the membrane. We recently showed that FadR also activates the promoter upstream of thefabHgene (L. My, B. Rekoske, J. J. Lemke, J. P. Viala, R. L. Gourse, and E. Bouveret, J Bacteriol 195:3784–3795, 2013, doi:10.1128/JB.00384-13). Furthermore, recent transcriptomic and proteomic data suggested that FadR activates the majority of fatty acid (FA) synthesis genes. In the present study, we tested the role of FadR in the expression of all genes involved in FA synthesis. We found that FadR activates the transcription of all tested FA synthesis genes, and we identified the FadR binding site for each of these genes. This necessitated the reassessment of the transcription start sites foraccAandaccBgenes described previously, and we provide evidence for the presence of multiple promoters driving the expression of these genes. We showed further that regulation by FadR impacts the amount of FA synthesis enzymes in the cell. Our results show that FadR is a global regulator of FA metabolism inE. coli, acting both as a repressor of catabolism and an activator of anabolism, two directly opposing pathways.

IMPORTANCEIn most bacteria, a transcriptional regulator tunes the level of FA synthesis enzymes. Oddly, such a global regulator still was missing forE. coli, which nonetheless is one of the prominent model bacteria used for engineering biofuel production using the FA synthesis pathway. Our work identifies the FadR functional dual regulator as a global activator of almost all FA synthesis genes inE. coli. Because FadR also is the repressor of FA degradation, FadR acts both as a repressor and an activator of the two opposite pathways of FA degradation and synthesis. Our results show that there are still discoveries waiting to be made in the understanding of the genetic regulation of FA synthesis, even in the very well-known bacteriumE. coli.
A giant pancreatic pseudocyst treated by cystogastrostomy
Authors: Wang Grace C , Misra Subhasis
Published: March 2015

We report a case of a giant pancreatic pseudocyst in a 65-year-old man presenting with abdominal pain, loss of appetite and abdominal distension. CT scans demonstrated a giant pancreatic pseudocyst measuring 25.7 cm×15.3 cm×10.9 cm anteroposteriorly, with significant compression of surrounding organs. An open cystogastrostomy was performed through a midline incision, and 3 L of fluid was drained from the giant pseudocyst. Recovery has been uneventful.
Cat-scratch disease presenting as a solitary splenic abscess in an elderly man
Authors: Nakamura Momoko , Kurimoto Mio , Kato Takehiro , Kunieda Takeshige
Published: March 2015

Patients with cat-scratch disease (CSD), which is caused byBartonella henselae, typically present with local lymphadenopathy with a brief period of fever and general symptoms. Most cases are self-limiting and usually afflict children and young adults. Although rare, CSD can lead to serious complications, especially in immunocompromised patients. These rare complications often require intensive treatment. We describe the case of a 79-year-old man who presented with general malaise and a high fever. The physical examination findings were unremarkable. Of note, the lymph nodes were not enlarged. An abdominal CT scan with intravenous contrast revealed a solitary splenic abscess and no lymphadenopathy. The initial antibiotic treatment was ineffective and a splenectomy was indicated. A history of contact with cats raised the possibility of CSD, which was confirmed by a positive serology test result forB henselae. Antibiotic treatment with azithromycin successfully treated the splenic abscess and splenectomy was avoided.
BET 2: Should we use an age adjusted D-dimer threshold in managing low risk patients with suspected pulmonary embolism?
Authors: Jaconelli Tom , Crane Steven
Published: March 2015

A shortcut review was carried out to establish whether a higher age related threshold can be used when using d-dimer as a rule out test for pulmonary embolism. 29 papers were found of which 13 presented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The author, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes, results and study weaknesses of these best papers are tabulated. The clinical bottom line is that in older patients suspected of having a Pulmonary Embolus (PE), with a low pretest possibility, an age-adjusted D-dimer increases specificity with minimal change in the sensitivity, thereby increasing the number of patients who can be safely discharged without further investigations
Evaluation of an anatomic definition of non-aneurysmal perimesencephalic subarachnhoid hemorrhage
Authors: Wallace Adam N , Vyhmeister Ross , Dines Jeffrey N , Chatterjee Arindam R , Kansagra Akash P , Viets Ryan , Whisenant Justin T , Moran Christopher J , Cross DeWitte T , Derdeyn Colin P
Published: March 2015

Background and purpose

Perimesencephalic subarachnoid hemorrhage (PSAH) is not consistently defined in the existing literature. The purpose of this study was to test the inter-observer variability and specificity for non-aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) of an anatomic definition of PSAH.

Methods

Medical records of all patients who underwent catheter angiography for evaluation of non-traumatic SAH between July 2002 and April 2012 were reviewed. Patients with anterior circulation aneurysms were excluded. Three blinded reviewers assessed whether each admission CT scan met the following anatomic criteria for PSAH: (1) center of bleeding located immediately anterior and in contact with the brainstem in the prepontine, interpeduncular, or posterior suprasellar cistern; (2) blood limited to the prepontine, interpeduncular, suprasellar, crural, ambient, and/or quadrigeminal cisterns and/or cisterna magna; (3) no extension of blood into the Sylvian or interhemispheric fissures; (4) intraventricular blood limited to incomplete filling of the fourth ventricle and occipital horns of the lateral ventricles (ie, consistent with reflux); (5) no intraparenchymal blood.

Results

56 patients with non-aneurysmal SAH and 50 patients with posterior circulation or posterior communicating artery aneurysms were identified. Seventeen (16%) of the 106 admission CT scans met the anatomic criteria for PSAH. No aneurysm was identified in this subgroup. Inter-observer agreement was excellent with κ scores of 0.89–0.96 and disagreement in 2.8% (3/106) of cases.

Conclusions

Our anatomic definition of PSAH correlated with a low risk of brain aneurysm and was applied with excellent inter-observer agreement.
Plasma cytokine and exertional responses in relation to exercise intensity and volume of exercising muscle mass during arm-crank ergometry
Authors: Paulson Thomas A. , Goosey-Tolfrey Victoria L. , Leicht Christof A. , Bishop Nicolette C.
Published: March 2015

This original study investigated the effect of submaximal exercise intensity and volume of contracting muscle mass on plasma inflammation-mediating cytokine and perceived exertional responses to acute arm-crank ergometry (ACE). Twelve recreationally active but upper limb untrained males performed 30 min of (i) low-intensity (40% peak oxygen uptake) ACE (LOW); (ii) moderate-intensity (60% peak oxygen uptake) ACE (MOD); and (iii) concurrent low-intensity (40% peak oxygen uptake) ACE plus lower limb cycle ergometry to match total power output in MOD (HYB). Plasma concentrations of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, IL-1ra, adrenaline, and cortisol were determined at rest, immediately postexercise, and 1 h and 2 h postexercise. Heart rate (HR) and differentiated ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were also recorded. Plasma IL-6 concentrations were elevated (p < 0.05) immediately postexercise and 1 h postexercise (∼2.5-fold) in all trials and 2 h postexercise in MOD (3-fold). Plasma IL-1ra concentrations were elevated (p < 0.05) 2 h postexercise in MOD only (2-fold). No plasma IL-10, cortisol, and adrenaline responses were observed. HR and differentiated RPE were significantly higher during MOD than HYB and LOW. Peripheral RPE were significantly higher than central and overall RPE in each trial. Thirty minutes of moderate intensity ACE initiated a plasma cytokine response associated with the protective effect of regular exercise against cardiovascular and metabolic disease risk. Further work is required to establish an optimal intensity and duration of upper limb exercise to maximise the anti-inflammatory potential whilst managing the risk of over-use injury.
Comment on “Spectroscopic studies of oxygen speciation in potassium silicate glasses and melts”
Authors: Malfait Wim J.
Published: March 2015

Recent O1s XPS studies suggest that significant free oxide (O2– or K–O–K) is present in potassium silicate glasses, in contrast with what was concluded from 29Si and 17O solid-state NMR data. An alternative peak assignment of the Qn peaks in the 29Si NMR spectra was proposed to bring the 29Si NMR data in line with the O1s data, but this reassignment (i) is not supported by any evidence other than the resulting agreement between the NMR and XPS data, (ii) is at odds with the spectral properties of the bands (peak position and width), (iii) ignores the strong evidence for the original peak assignment, and (iv) results in highly implausible equilibrium constants for the Qn speciation reactions. More likely causes for the apparent discrepancy between the XPS and NMR data are the incorrect estimation of the precision of the bridging oxygen content from the O1s XPS data, the systematic overestimation of the bridging oxygen content from the O1s XPS data, and (or) the incorrect estimation of the accuracy of the compositional analysis, which was based on the precision rather than the accuracy of the electron microprobe analysis. Thus, the available evidence strongly suggests that the original assignment of the 29Si NMR spectra is correct. Neither the 29Si NMR nor the O1s XPS data support the presence of significant amounts of free oxide in potassium silicate glasses with K2O/SiO2 ≪ 2.
Assessment of self-learning adaptive traffic signal control on congested urban areas: independent versus coordinated perspectives
Authors: Abdelgawad Hossam , Abdulhai Baher , El-Tantawy Samah , Hadayeghi Alireza , Zvaniga Brue
Published: March 2015

In this paper, we introduce a simulation testbed framework to evaluate the performance of a self-learning adaptive traffic signal control system. The core contribution of this paper is the assessment of the system’s two modes of operations (independent versus coordinated) under different congestion levels and network configurations. The insights and conclusions of the paper are based on the synergetic effect of the following: (1) appropriate design of the adaptive system parameters, (2) seamless design of generic interfaces between the adaptive system and the simulation environment using application programming interfaces, (3) rigorously calibrated simulation model and a comprehensive set of performance and environmental measures, and (4) investigation of the system components required for building a complete functioning system in the field. The system was designed and lab-tested on two case studies in the City of Burlington, Ontario. The intersections were designed and operated using the adaptive system and compared to the actuated optimized and coordinated base case timings plans. The analysis of the simulation results shows that overall the adaptive system outperforms the base case scenario by up to 25% savings in delay at the network level, and 15% reduction in CO2emission. On the other hand, the results of the two testbed models indicate that the performance of the adaptive system varies according to the intersection conditions and flows, network configuration, traffic volume, variability in flow arrivals, and the proximity of intersections to each other.
A Comparison of Rebalanced and Buy and Hold Portfolios: Does Monetary Policy Matter?
Authors: Hilliard Jimmy E. , Hilliard Jitka
Published: March 2015

We examine buy and hold and a number of rebalancing strategies on a portfolio of indices that are tracked by ETFs. The indices include Barkley's treasuries and MSCI indices on emerging markets, Pacific and European markets, value funds, and growth funds. Portfolios are rebalanced using threshold schemes and compared with portfolios rebalanced using weights from different points on the Markowitz efficient frontier. We also examine portfolios that are rebalanced across monetary policy regimes. We find that portfolios rebalanced using Markowitz weights that allow for shifts in monetary policy regimes easily outperform both threshold rebalancing and buy and hold strategies.
Spectral Topology on MV-Modules
Authors: Forouzesh F. , Eslami E. , Saeid A. Borumand
Published: March 2015

In this paper, the spectral topology and quasi-spectral topology of proper prime A-ideals in an MV-module are introduced. We show that the spectral topology of proper ⋅-prime ideals of a PMV-algebra with unity for product, is the same as the spectral topology of proper prime ideals in an MV-algebra. Also we show that the set of all prime A-ideals in an MV-module with spectral topology is not T0 and T1 topological spaces but quasi-spectral topology is T0-space and is not T1-space. Finally, we investigate when the set of all prime A-ideals in an MV-module are Hausdorff and disconnected.
State Space Modeling & Bayesian Inference with Computational Intelligence
Authors: Hanif Ayub , Smith Robert Elliott
Published: March 2015

Recursive Bayesian estimation using sequential Monte Carlos methods is a powerful numerical technique to understand latent dynamics of nonlinear non-Gaussian dynamical systems. It enables us to reason under uncertainty and addresses shortcomings underlying deterministic systems and control theories which do not provide sufficient means of performing analysis and design. In addition, parametric techniques such as the Kalman filter and its extensions, though they are computationally efficient, do not reliably compute states and cannot be used to learn stochastic problems. We review recursive Bayesian estimation using sequential Monte Carlo methods highlighting open problems. Primary of these is the weight degeneracy and sample impoverishment problem. We proceed to detail synergistic computational intelligence sequential Monte Carlo methods which address this. We find that imbuing sequential Monte Carlos with computational intelligence has many advantages when applied to many application and problem domains.
Dielectric response and pyroelectric properties of lead-free ferroelectric Ba3(VO4)2
Authors: Pati Biswajit , Choudhary R. N. P. , Das Piyush R. , Sutar B. C.
Published: March 2015

The current paper presents results of dielectric response, pyroelectric behavior and conductivity study of lead-free ferroelectric barium orthovanadate ( Ba 3( VO 4)2 or Ba 3 V 2 O 8) ceramic, for a wide range of temperature and frequency. An X-ray diffraction study suggests the formation of a single-phase compound in trigonal crystal system. The SEM micrograph of gold-coated pellet sample shows well-defined and homogeneous morphology. Detailed studies of dielectric parameters (εr and tan δ) of the compound as a function of temperature and frequency reveal their independence over a wide range of temperature and frequency. The nature of Polarization versus electric field (P–E) hysteresis loop of Ba 3 V 2 O 8 at room temperature suggests its ferroelectric nature. The temperature dependence of pyroelectric coefficient and figure of merits of the sample support its dielectric response. The nature of variation of dc conductivity with temperature confirms the Arrhenius and negative temperature coefficient of resistance (NTCR) behavior of the material.
An Energy-Efficient Hybrid Clustering Mechanism for Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Venkateswarlu K. Muni , Kandasamy A. , Chandrasekaran K.
Published: March 2015

Valuable energy resources of sensor network should be utilized wisely to prolong network's lifetime. Clustering technique helps wireless sensor network (WSN) to enhance its lifetime by reducing energy consumption on every individual sensor node in the network. In multi-hop data forwarding model, difference in energy consumption among cluster heads (HS) causes hot-spot problem in the network. While data is being transferred, the CH close to base station are burdened with heavy relay traffic from several data routes and tend to die early. Unequal clustering avoids this hot-spot problem by establishing different sized clusters at various levels in the network. Since unequal clustering technique does not control number of CHs it creates, it forms huge number of clusters in the network. This increases hop count between source and destination, and leads to impose more over head on each data forwarding route in the network. Also, rapid variation in cluster size causes imbalance in energy dissipation among clustered nodes in the network. This uneven energy consumption influences network performance and lifetime. In this paper, we present an energy-efficient hybrid clustering mechanism for wireless sensor network using equal and unequal clustering techniques to create limited number of clusters in varied sizes at various level of the network. This avoids hot-spot problem with minimum hop count between the source and destination and achieves uniform energy dissipation between intra- and inter-cluster communication. Simulation results show that the proposed clustering mechanism balances the energy consumption among clusters with its hybrid cluster formation mechanism and elevates sensor network lifetime.
Data Sorting in Flash Memory
Authors: Wu Chin-Hsien , Huang Kuo-Yi
Published: March 2015

Because flash memory now provides an economical solution for various portable devices and embedded systems, an NAND flash-based storage system has replaced the hard disk drive in many applications. Recently, the implementation of database systems using an NAND flash-based storage system has become an important research topic. In particular, the external sorting is an important operation in database systems. With the very distinctive characteristics of flash memory, the typical external sorting system that adopts a clustered sorting process can result in performance degradation and reduce the reliability of flash memory. In this article, we will propose an unclustered sorting method that considers the unique characteristics of flash memory, and we then propose a decision rule to exploit the advantages of both clustered and unclustered sorting. The decision rule can separate records according to their record length, sort them appropriately by the clustered and unclustered sorting, and merge the sorted results. The experimental results show that the proposed method can improve performance in an NAND flash-based storage system (i.e., solid-state drive).
Security challenges for medical devices
Authors: Sametinger Johannes , Rozenblit Jerzy , Lysecky Roman , Ott Peter
Published: March 2015

Implantable devices, often dependent on software, save countless lives. But how secure are they?
An Energy-Efficient and Reliable Storage Mechanism for Data-Intensive Academic Archive Systems
Authors: Chen Tseng-Yi , Wei Hsin-Wen , Yeh Tsung-Tai , Hsu Tsan-Sheng , Shih Wei-Kuan
Published: March 2015

Previous studies proposed energy-efficient solutions, such as multispeed disks and disk spin-down methods, to conserve power in their respective storage systems. However, in most cases, the authors did not analyze the reliability of their solutions. According to research conducted by Google and the IDEMA standard, frequently setting the disk status to standby mode will increase the disk’s Annual Failure Rate and reduce its lifespan. To resolve the issue, we propose an evaluation function called E
3
SaRC (Economic Evaluation of Energy Saving with Reliability Constraint), which considers the cost of hardware failure when applying energy-saving schemes. We also present an adaptive write cache mechanism called CacheRAID. The mechanism tries to mitigate the random access problems that implicitly exist in RAID techniques and thereby reduce the energy consumption of RAID disks. CacheRAID also addresses the issue of system reliability by applying a control mechanism to the spin-down algorithm. Our experimental results show that the CacheRAID storage system can reduce the power consumption of the conventional software RAID 5 system by 65% to 80%. Moreover, according to the E
3
SaRC measurement, the overall saved cost of CacheRAID is the largest among the systems that we compared.
Molecular moonshots
Authors: Wright Alex
Published: March 2015

Synthetic biologists may be closing in on potentially world-changing breakthroughs, but they are often hamstrung by a shortage of software tools.
An interview with Juris Hartmanis
Authors: Shustek Len
Published: March 2015

A pioneer in the field of computational complexity theory reflects on his career.
Future Tense: The Wealth of Planets
Authors: Batchelor David Allen
Published: March 2015

From the intersection of computational science and technological speculation, with boundaries limited only by our ability to imagine what could be. Launch swarms of self-replicating robots to exploit the most lucrative of resources.
The Interplay of Institutional Logics in it Public-Private Partnerships
Authors: Beck Roman , Gregory Robert Wayne , Marschollek Oliver
Published: March 2015

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) offer a popular means by which the public sector can obtain infor-mation technology (IT) innovations and management know-how from private firms. However, these IT PPPs are extremely difficult to realize, especially considering the divergent interests of public- and private-side stake-holders. Our case study of an IT PPP reveals public- and private-side differences that initially impeded the establishment of a partnership; using institutional logics theory as meta-theoretical lens, we propose a model that explains how public and private parties managed to negotiate their mode of collaboration by balancing their competing institutional norms and practices which ultimately resulted in the convergence of the two divergent logics. Our paper contributes to theory and practice by (1) elucidating the theoretical foundations and role of institutional logics for IT project management that we found dominated by public and private norms and practices, (2) explaining why collaboration in IT PPPs is so diffi-cult, and (3) how eventually an IT PPP can be estab-lished. We discuss theoretical and practical implica-tions in the paper.
Queue Operation Related Tasking Deadlocks in Ada 2012 Programs
Authors: Wang Bo , Goto Yuichi , Cheng Jingde
Published: March 2015

This article presents some queue operation related tasking deadlocks in Ada 2012 programs.
A Fuzzy Rules-Based Driver Assistance System
Authors: Chien Jong-Chih , Lee Jiann-Der , Liu Li-Chang
Published: March 2015

A vision-based driver assistance system using fuzzy rules to determine whether warnings are necessary is presented. This system is comprised of four cameras, one of which focuses on the driver for estimating the driver’s viewing angle, another focuses on the road ahead for the detection of road condition ahead, and the last two cameras are on both sides of the vehicle, facing backward, for the purpose of determining whether neighboring lanes are occupied by vehicles hidden in the blind-spots. The system uses fuzzy-rules for the analysis of interactions between the driver’s gaze, whether there are vehicles ahead, and in the neighboring lanes to determine whether the current driving condition should be of concern to the driver and issues one of three levels of warnings, from safe to dangerous.
Synthesis and Characterization of Cellulose from Green Bamboo by Chemical Treatment with Mechanical Process
Authors: Liew Fui Kiew , Hamdan Sinin , Rahman Md. Rezaur , Rusop Mohamad , Lai Josephine Chang Hui , Hossen Md. Faruk , Rahman Md. Mizanur
Published: March 2015

Bamboo cellulose was prepared by chemical process involving dewaxing, delignification, and mercerization process. Four samples namely, green bamboo fiber (GBF), dewaxed bamboo fiber (DBF), delignified bamboo fiber (DLBF), and cellulose fiber (CF) had been analysed. FTIR and TGA analysis confirmed the removal of hemicellulose and lignin at the end stage of the process. FTIR results reveal that the D-cellulose OH group occurred at 1639 cm−1region. SEM micrograph showed that mercerization leads to fibrillation and breakage of the fiber into smaller pieces which promote the effective surface area available for contact. Barrer, Joiyner, and Halenda (BJH) method confirmed that the effective surface area of CF is two times larger compared to GBF. CF showed the highest activation energy compared to GBF. It indicates that CF was thermally stable.
Research on Stability Control Based on the Wheel Speed Difference for the AT Vehicles
Authors: Jin Hui , Li Shijie
Published: March 2015

This paper utilizes a linear two-degree-of-freedom vehicle model to calculate the nominal value of the vehicle’s nondrive-wheel speed difference and investigates methods of estimating the yaw acceleration and sideslip angular speed. A vehicular dynamic stability control system utilizing this nondrive-wheel speed difference is then developed, which can effectively improve a vehicle’s dynamic stability at a very low cost. Vehicle cornering processes on roads of different frictions and with different vehicle speeds are explored via simulation, with speed control being applied when vehicle speed is high enough to make the vehicle unstable. Driving simulator tests of vehicle cornering capacity on roads of different friction coefficients are also conducted.
An Evaluating Method with Combined Assigning-Weight Based on Maximizing Variance
Authors: Hongjiu Liu , Yanrong Hu
Published: March 2015

This paper proposes a combined assigning-weight approach to determine attribute weights in the multiattribute decision problems. The approach combines subjective weights and objective weights of attributes based on maximizing variance. Objective weights are determined by rough set method and subjective weights by Analytic Hierarchy Process. This new combination method may integrate the merits of both subjective and objective weighting methods. Empirical study shows that the new method can lead to more reasonable weighting results and decision.
Resilient Disaster Network Based on Software Defined Cognitive Wireless Network Technology
Authors: Sato Goshi , Uchida Noriki , Shibata Yoshitaka
Published: March 2015

In order to temporally recover the information network infrastructure in disaster areas from the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, various wireless network technologies such as satellite IP network, 3G, and Wi-Fi were effectively used. However, since those wireless networks are individually introduced and installed but not totally integrated, some of networks were congested due to the sudden network traffic generation and unbalanced traffic distribution, and eventually the total network could not effectively function. In this paper, we propose a disaster resilient network which integrates various wireless networks into a cognitive wireless network that users can use as an access network to the Internet at the serious disaster occurrence. We designed and developed the disaster resilient network based on software defined network (SDN) technology to automatically select the best network link and route among the possible access networks to the Internet by periodically monitoring their network states and evaluate those using extended AHP method. In order to verify the usefulness of our proposed system, a prototype system is constructed and its performance is evaluated.
Molecular and Functional Imaging of Internet Addiction
Authors: Zhu Yunqi , Zhang Hong , Tian Mei
Published: March 2015

Maladaptive use of the Internet results in Internet addiction (IA), which is associated with various negative consequences. Molecular and functional imaging techniques have been increasingly used for analysis of neurobiological changes and neurochemical correlates of IA. This review summarizes molecular and functional imaging findings on neurobiological mechanisms of IA, focusing on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nuclear imaging modalities including positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). MRI studies demonstrate that structural changes in frontal cortex are associated with functional abnormalities in Internet addicted subjects. Nuclear imaging findings indicate that IA is associated with dysfunction of the brain dopaminergic systems. Abnormal dopamine regulation of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) could underlie the enhanced motivational value and uncontrolled behavior over Internet overuse in addicted subjects. Further investigations are needed to determine specific changes in the Internet addictive brain, as well as their implications for behavior and cognition.
Lymph Node Flow Cytometry as a Prompt Recognition of Ultra Early Onset PTLD: A Successful Case of Rituximab Treatment
Authors: Li Xiaofan , Li Nainong , Yang Ting , Chen Zhizhe , Hu Jianda
Published: March 2015

Ultra early posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) is a rare and fatal complication after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Here we report, by lymph node (LN) flowcytometry, that we early recognized ultra early PTLD after an HLA-matched sibling allo-HSCT followed by a successful treatment with anti-CD20 antibody (rituximab) in a patient in progress disease for angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL). The patient was conditioned with a reduced intensity conditioning (RIC) regimen. One week after transplantation, the patient developed high fever, generalized fatigue, high Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) load, and LN enlargement. An LN lymphocyte suspension and peripheral blood flowcytometry was performed to find majority of LN lymphocytes highly expressed CD20. By highly suspicious PTLD, 4 doses of rituximab (375 mg/m2 qw) were given immediately followed by reducing and withdrawing immunosuppressant reagent. PTLD was later confirmed by pathology. The patient had good response to rituximab, showing absence of fever, reduction in LN size, and no detectable EBV-DNA. Twenty months after HSCT, the patient remains well without evidence of AITL and PTLD. The current report is one of the earliest cases of PTLD after HSCT. Taken together, by LN flowcytometry as a prompt recognition, rituximab can be an effective preemptive therapy for ultra early developed PTLD.
Approximate Analytical Solutions of the Fractional-Order Brusselator System Using the Polynomial Least Squares Method
Authors: Bota Constantin , Căruntu Bogdan
Published: March 2015

The paper presents a new method, called the Polynomial Least Squares Method (PLSM). PLSM allows us to compute approximate analytical solutions for the Brusselator system, which is a fractional-order system of nonlinear differential equations.
MBL2Genotypes and Their Associations with MBL Levels and NICU Morbidity in a Cohort of Greek Neonates
Authors: Speletas Matthaios , Gounaris Antonios , Sevdali Eirini , Kompoti Maria , Konstantinidi Katerina , Sokou Rozeta , Tsitsami Elena , Germenis Anastasios E.
Published: March 2015

The objective of this study was to assess the frequency ofMBL2genotypes and their associations with MBL levels and various morbidities of a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). One hundred and thirty-four (134) NICU (83 term and 51 preterm) and 150 healthy neonates were enrolled in the study.MBL2genotype and MBL serum levels at birth were determined prospectively by PCR-RFLP-sequencing and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. NICU neonates displayed significantly lower MBL serum levels compared to healthy ones. MBL deficiency, defined as the lowMBL2expression group (XA/O and O/O), was significantly associated with an increased risk of respiratory morbidity, especially transient tachypnea of the newborn and respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Moreover, an increase of 100 ng/mL of serum MBL levels decreases by 5% the risk of total respiratory morbidity and by 7% the risk of RDS, after correction for prematurity and sex and regardless of the presence of infections. Our study further supports the notion that neonates with MBL deficiency and low MBL serum levels at birth may be at higher risk of developing severe respiratory complications.
Paraurethral Leiomyoma in a Postmenopausal Woman: First European Case
Authors: Shim Susy , Borg Camilla Skovvang , Majeed Huda Galib , Humaidan Peter
Published: March 2015

Leiomyomas are benign tumors extending from smooth muscle cells and only few cases of paraurethral leiomyomas have been described in the literature. They are often seen in the reproductive age and around 50% of the cases are asymptomatic. We describe a 59-year-old woman with a solid mobile tumor below the symphysis revealed at a gynecological examination. Transvaginal ultrasound and MRI confirmed the tumor and excision of the paraurethral tumor was carried out. The histological examination showed a benign paraurethral leiomyoma. The postoperative period was characterized by urethral pain as well as vaginal leakage of urine.
The Rapid Inactivation of Porcine Skin by Applying High Hydrostatic Pressure without Damaging the Extracellular Matrix
Authors: Morimoto Naoki , Mahara Atsushi , Shima Kouji , Ogawa Mami , Jinno Chizuru , Kakudo Natsuko , Kusumoto Kenji , Fujisato Toshia , Suzuki Shigehiko , Yamaoka Tetsuji
Published: March 2015

We previously reported that high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) of 200 MPa for 10 minutes could induce cell killing. In this study, we explored whether HHP at 200 MPa or HHP at lower pressure, in combination with hyposmotic distilled water (DW), could inactivate the skin, as well as cultured cells. We investigated the inactivation of porcine skin samples 4 mm in diameter. They were immersed in either a normal saline solution (NSS) or DW, and then were pressurized at 100 and 200 MPa for 5, 10, 30, or 60 min. Next, we explored the inactivation of specimens punched out from the pressurized skin 10 × 2 cm in size. The viability was evaluated using a WST-8 assay and an outgrowth culture. The histology of specimens was analyzed histologically. The mitochondrial activity was inactivated after the pressurization at 200 MPa in both experiments, and no outgrowth was observed after the pressurization at 200 MPa. The arrangement and proportion of the dermal collagen fibers or the elastin fibers were not adversely affected after the pressurization at 200 MPa for up to 60 minutes. This study showed that a HHP at 200 MPa for 10 min could inactivate the skin without damaging the dermal matrix.