bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Papillomavirus E7 Oncoproteins Share Functions with Polyomavirus Small T Antigens
Authors: White Elizabeth A. , Kramer Rebecca E. , Hwang Justin H. , Pores Fernando Arun T. , Naetar Nana , Hahn William C. , Roberts Thomas M. , Schaffhausen Brian S. , Livingston David M. , Howley Peter M.
Published: December 2014

Many of the small DNA tumor viruses encode transforming proteins that function by targeting critical cellular pathways involved in cell proliferation and survival. In this study, we have examined whether some of the functions of the polyomavirus small T antigens (ST) are shared by the E6 and E7 oncoproteins of two oncogenic papillomaviruses. Using three different assays, we have found that E7 can provide some simian virus 40 (SV40) or murine polyomavirus (PyV) ST functions. Both human papillomavirus 16 (HPV16) and bovine papillomavirus (BPV1) E7 proteins are capable of partially substituting for SV40 ST in a transformation assay that also includes SV40 large T antigen, the catalytic subunit of cellular telomerase, and oncogenic Ras. Like SV40 ST, HPV16 E7 has the ability to override a quiescence block induced by mitogen deprivation. Like PyV ST, it also has the ability to inhibit myoblast differentiation. At least two of these activities are dependent upon the interaction of HPV16 E7 with retinoblastoma protein family members. For small T antigens, interaction with PP2A is needed for each of these functions. Even though there is no strong evidence that E6 or E7 share the ability of small T to interact with PP2A, E7 provides these functions related to cellular transformation.

IMPORTANCE
DNA tumor viruses have provided major insights into how cancers develop. Some viruses, like the human papillomaviruses, can cause cancer directly. Both the papillomaviruses and the polyomaviruses have served as tools for understanding pathways that are often perturbed in cancer. Here, we have compared the functions of transforming proteins from several DNA tumor viruses, including two papillomaviruses and two polyomaviruses. We tested the papillomavirus E6 and E7 oncoproteins in three functional assays and found that E7 can provide some or all of the functions of the SV40 small T antigen, another well-characterized oncoprotein, in two of these assays. In a third assay, papillomavirus E7 has the same effect as the murine polyomavirus small T protein. In summary, we report several new functions for the papillomavirus E7 proteins, which will contribute new insights into the roles of viruses in cancer and the cellular pathways they perturb in carcinogenesis.
Viromes, Not Gene Markers, for Studying Double-Stranded DNA Virus Communities
Authors: Sullivan Matthew B.
Published: December 2014

Microbes have recently been recognized as dominant forces in nature, with studies benefiting from gene markers that can be quickly, informatively, and universally surveyed. Viruses, where explored, have proven to be powerful modulators of locally and globally important microbes through mortality, horizontal gene transfer, and metabolic reprogramming. However, community-wide virus studies have been challenged by the lack of a universal marker. Here, I propose that viral metagenomics has advanced to largely take over study of double-stranded DNA viruses.
A Multivalent Clade C HIV-1 Env Trimer Cocktail Elicits a Higher Magnitude of Neutralizing Antibodies than Any Individual Component
Authors: Bricault Christine A. , Kovacs James M. , Nkolola Joseph P. , Yusim Karina , Giorgi Elena E. , Shields Jennifer L. , Perry James , Lavine Christy L. , Cheung Ann , Ellingson-Strouss Katharine , Rademeyer Cecelia , Gray Glenda E. , Williamson Carolyn , Stamatatos Leonidas , Seaman Michael S. , Korber Bette T. , Chen Bing , Barouch Dan H.
Published: December 2014

The sequence diversity of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) presents a formidable challenge to the generation of an HIV-1 vaccine. One strategy to address such sequence diversity and to improve the magnitude of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) is to utilize multivalent mixtures of HIV-1 envelope (Env) immunogens. Here we report the generation and characterization of three novel, acute clade C HIV-1 Env gp140 trimers (459C, 405C, and 939C), each with unique antigenic properties. Among the single trimers tested, 459C elicited the most potent NAb responses in vaccinated guinea pigs. We evaluated the immunogenicity of various mixtures of clade C Env trimers and found that a quadrivalent cocktail of clade C trimers elicited a greater magnitude of NAbs against a panel of tier 1A and 1B viruses than any single clade C trimer alone, demonstrating that the mixture had an advantage over all individual components of the cocktail. These data suggest that vaccination with a mixture of clade C Env trimers represents a promising strategy to augment vaccine-elicited NAb responses.

IMPORTANCE
It is currently not known how to generate potent NAbs to the diverse circulating HIV-1 Envs by vaccination. One strategy to address this diversity is to utilize mixtures of different soluble HIV-1 envelope proteins. In this study, we generated and characterized three distinct, novel, acute clade C soluble trimers. We vaccinated guinea pigs with single trimers as well as mixtures of trimers, and we found that a mixture of four trimers elicited a greater magnitude of NAbs than any single trimer within the mixture. The results of this study suggest that further development of Env trimer cocktails is warranted.
Regulation of Herpesvirus Reactivation by Host MicroRNAs
Authors: Frappier Lori
Published: December 2014

The interplay between latent and lytic modes of infection is central to successful infection of all herpesviruses, yet knowledge of the determinants that govern reactivation of these viruses from latent to lytic infection is limited. Recently, several studies have identified roles for specific cellular microRNAs in inhibiting reactivation of various herpesviruses, thereby promoting latent infections. These studies are discussed in the context of current knowledge on mechanisms of regulation of reactivation of specific herpesviruses.
Chicken and Duck Myotubes Are Highly Susceptible and Permissive to Influenza Virus Infection
Authors: Baquero-Perez Belinda , Kuchipudi Suresh V. , Ho Jemima , Sebastian Sujith , Puranik Anita , Howard Wendy , Brookes Sharon M. , Brown Ian H. , Chang Kin-Chow
Published: December 2014

Skeletal muscle, at 30 to 40% of body mass, is the most abundant soft tissue in the body. Besides its primary function in movement and posture, skeletal muscle is a significant innate immune organ with the capacity to produce cytokines and chemokines and respond to proinflammatory cytokines. Little is known about the role of skeletal muscle during systemic influenza A virus infection in any host and particularly avian species. Here we used primary chicken and duck multinucleated myotubes to examine their susceptibility and innate immune response to influenza virus infections. Both chicken and duck myotubes expressed avian and human sialic acid receptors and were readily susceptible to low-pathogenicity (H2N3 A/mallard duck/England/7277/06) and high-pathogenicity (H5N1 A/turkey/England/50-92/91 and H5N1 A/turkey/Turkey/1/05) avian and human H1N1 (A/USSR/77) influenza viruses. Both avian host species produced comparable levels of progeny H5N1 A/turkey/Turkey/1/05 virus. Notably, the rapid accumulation of viral nucleoprotein and matrix (M) gene RNA in chicken and duck myotubes was accompanied by extensive cytopathic damage with marked myotube apoptosis (widespread microscopic blebs, caspase 3/7 activation, and annexin V binding at the plasma membrane). Infected chicken myotubes produced significantly higher levels of proinflammatory cytokines than did the corresponding duck cells. Additionally, in chicken myotubes infected with H5N1 viruses, the induction of interferon beta (IFN-β) and IFN-inducible genes, including the melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (MDA-5) gene, was relatively weak compared to infection with the corresponding H2N3 virus. Our findings highlight that avian skeletal muscle fibers are capable of productive influenza virus replication and are a potential tissue source of infection.

IMPORTANCE
Infection with high-pathogenicity H5N1 viruses in ducks is often asymptomatic, and skeletal muscle from such birds could be a source of infection of humans and animals. Little is known about the ability of influenza A viruses to replicate in avian skeletal muscle fibers. We show here that cultured chicken and duck myotubes were highly susceptible to infection with both low- and high-pathogenicity avian influenza viruses. Infected myotubes of both avian species displayed rapid virus accumulation, apoptosis, and extensive cellular damage. Our results indicate that avian skeletal muscle fibers of chicken and duck could be significant contributors to progeny production of highly pathogenic H5N1 viruses.
Human Coagulation Factor X-Adenovirus Type 5 Complexes Poorly Stimulate an Innate Immune Response in Human Mononuclear Phagocytes
Authors: Eichholz Karsten , Mennechet Franck J. D. , Kremer Eric J.
Published: December 2014

One of the first lines of host defense against many viruses in vertebrates is the innate immune system, which detects pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) using pathogen recognition receptors (PRR). The dynamic interactions between pathogens and hosts create, in some cases, species-specific relationships. Recently, it was shown that murine factor X (mFX)-armored human adenovirus (HAd) stimulated a mFX-Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-associated response in mouse macrophages
in vitro
and
in vivo
. Given the importance of studies using animals to better understand host-pathogen interactions, we asked if human FX (hFX)-armored HAd type 5 (HAd5) was capable of activating innate immune sensors in primary human mononuclear phagocytes. To this end, we assayed human mononuclear phagocytes for their ability to be stimulated by hFX-armored HAd5 via a TLR/NF-κB pathway, in particular, a TLR4 pathway. In our hands, we found no significant interaction, activation, or maturation of human mononuclear phagocytes caused by the presence of hFX-armored HAd5.

IMPORTANCE
Animals, and mice in particular, are often used as informative and powerful surrogates for how pathogens interact with natural host systems. When possible, extended and targeted studies in the natural host can then be performed. Our data will help us understand the differences in preclinical testing in mice and clinical use in humans in order to improve treatment for HAd diseases and Ad vector effectiveness.
Effects of racing games on risky driving behaviour, and the significance of personality and physiological data
Authors: Deng Mingming , Chan Alan H S , Wu Feng , Wang Jun
Published: December 2014

Background

Racing games have emerged as top-selling products in the video and computer game industry. The effect of playing racing games on the inclination of gamers to take risks has been investigated.

Method

Two experiments were conducted. In experiment 1, the impact of personality traits on the effects of playing racing games on risk-taking inclination was examined. The Vienna Test System, which includes the Eysenck Personality Profile Test and the Vienna Risk-Taking Test, was used to measure risk-taking inclination and risk-taking while driving. Experiment 2 was designed and conducted to analyse the effects of different intensity levels of car racing games on risk-taking inclination, and to study the relationship between physiological data and risk-taking inclination. Physiological data on skin conductance, heart rate and blood pressure were measured with the NeuroDyne System.

Results

Participants playing a racing game were more inclined to take risks in critical road traffic situations than those playing a neutral game. The adventurousness dimension of the Eysenck Personality Profile Test correlated significantly positively with risk-taking inclination. More importantly, the effect of the intensity level of a racing game on risk-taking inclination was significant. The higher the intensity level of the racing game, the higher the risk-taking inclination while driving. The effect of intensity level of the racing game on skin conductance was significantly positive. Skin conductance correlated significantly positively with risk-taking inclination.

Conclusions

The effect of playing racing games on risk-taking inclination is linked to personality and physiological data. Some recommendations are proposed as a result of this study for racing game management.
Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) for the identification of mycobacteria from MBBacT ALERT 3D liquid cultures and Lowenstein–Jensen (LJ) solid cultures
Authors: Quinlan Patricia , Phelan Elaine , Doyle Maeve
Published: December 2014

Aims

Conventional methods for the identification of mycobacteria can be demanding and prolonged. Molecular methodologies, although rapid, are expensive and often exclusive to reference laboratories. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) presents a possible alternative method for the identification and differentiation of mycobacteria. This study describes the design and validation of a mycobacteria inactivation protocol and subsequent evaluation of MALDI-TOF MS for the identification of mycobacteria in a clinical microbiology laboratory setting.

Methods

A total of 65 non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) isolates and 86Mycobacteriumtuberculosiscomplex (MTC) isolates were tested on the Bruker MALDI Biotyper Microflex, V.3.1. NTM solid-culture (Lowenstein–Jensen, LJ slopes) isolates (n=21) and liquid-culture (MBBacT ALERT 3D bottles) isolates (n=44) were tested. MTC solid-culture isolates (n=30) and liquid-culture isolates (n=56) were also tested. Isolates were subjected to the validated inactivation protocol and analysed on the MALDI-TOF MS instrument.

Results

The inactivation protocol designed was successfully validated and applied to all test isolates. MALDI-TOF MS correctly identified 82.8% of all isolates analysed; 96.7% and 96.4% of MTC isolates and 76.2% and 52.3% of NTM isolates were successfully identified from solid and liquid culture, respectively. MALDI-TOF MS failed to identify 35.4% (n=23) of NTM isolates and 3.5% (n=3) of MTC isolates.

Conclusions

MALDI-TOF MS has potential for identifying mycobacteria in the clinical laboratory setting, by reducing identification turnaround time and laboratory costs in isolate referral. Isolates that failed to be identified are explained by limitations of the method.
Improved detection of hereditary haemochromatosis
Authors: Ogilvie Catherine , Gaffney Dairena , Murray Heather , Kerry Andrew , Haig Caroline , Spooner Richard , Fitzsimons Edward J
Published: December 2014

Aims

There is high prevalence of hereditary haemochromatosis (HH) in North European populations, yet the diagnosis is often delayed or missed in primary care. Primary care physicians frequently request serum ferritin (SF) estimation but appear uncertain as how to investigate patients with raised SF values. Our aim was to develop a laboratory algorithm with high predictive value for the diagnosis of HH in patients from primary care with raised SF values.

Methods

Transferrin saturation (Tsat) was measured on SF samples sent from primary care; 1657 male and 2077 female patients age ≥30 years with SF ≥200 μg/L.HFEgenotyping was performed on all 878 male and 867 female patients with Tsat >30%.

Results

This study identified 402 (206 men; 196 women) C282Y carriers and 132 (58 men; 74 women) C282Y homozygotes. Optimal limits for combined SF and Tsat values for HH recognition were established. The detection rate for homozygous C282Y HH for male patients with both SF ≥300 μg/L and Tsat >50% was 18.8% (52/272) and 16.3% (68/415) for female patients with both SF ≥200 μg/L and Tsat >40%.

Conclusions

The large number of SF requests received from primary care should be used as a resource to improve the diagnosis of HH in areas of high prevalence.
Diagnostic accuracy of electrically elicited multiplet discharges in patients with motor neuron disease
Authors: Sleutjes Boudewijn T H M , Montfoort Inger , van Doorn Pieter A , Visser Gerhard H , Blok Joleen H
Published: December 2014

Objective

To determine and compare the diagnostic accuracy of electrically elicited multiplet discharges (MDs) and fasciculation potentials (FPs) in motor neuron disease (MND).

Methods

Patients were eligible when they had MND in their differential diagnosis and were referred for electromyogram (EMG). Stimulated high-density surface EMG of the thenar muscles was performed on the same day as standard EMG examination. High-density recordings were analysed for presence of MDs and needle EMG of any muscle investigated in the cervical region for presence of FPs.

Results

Of the 61 patients enrolled in this diagnostic study, 24 patients were clinically diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and 11 patients with progressive muscular atrophy (PMA). Another diagnosis was made in 26 patients. Sixteen patients in whom MDs were detected were diagnosed with either ALS (n=11) or PMA (n=5; sensitivity=47.1%, PPV=94.1%). MDs were detected in only one patient initially diagnosed with PMA, but in whom later on, multifocal motor neuropathy could not be excluded (specificity=96.2%). Electrically elicited MDs had a higher specificity than FPs (96.2% vs 53.9%, p<0.001, n=26) and lower sensitivity (47.1% vs 85.3%, p=0.002, n=34). When considering presence of MDs in MND as neurogenic EMG abnormality, lower motor neuron involvement of ≥1 EMG region increased from 50% to 73.5% (p=0.008, n=34).

Conclusions

Electrically evoked MDs are highly specific for ALS and PMA and are an early sign of lower motor neuron dysfunction.
Seasonal variation in Guillain-Barré syndrome: a systematic review, meta-analysis and Oxfordshire cohort study
Authors: Webb Alastair J S , Brain Susannah A E , Wood Ruth , Rinaldi Simon , Turner Martin R
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Evidence for seasonal variation in incidence and subtype of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is contradictory, but has implications for provision of neurological services and understanding pathogenesis.

Methods

We searched PubMed and EMBASE between inception and January 2014, including all studies reporting seasonal incidence of GBS. We included a retrospective cohort study of patients with GBS at the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford 2001–2012 and determined the seasonal variation in GBS incidence and length of stay. The incidence rate ratio (IRR) for winter versus summer was pooled across studies by fixed and random effects meta-analysis weighted by inverse variance, stratified by geographical region, infectious prodrome and GBS subtype.

Results

Across 9836 patients from 42 studies there was a 14% increased risk of GBS in winter versus summer (IRR=1.14, 1.02–1.27, p=0.020), with significant heterogeneity between studies (I2=77%, p<0.0001), including significant seasonal variation in Oxford (n=140; p=0.037) for winter versus summer (IRR=1.92, 1.18–3.11, p=0.004) but a non-significantly reduced length of stay for winter versus other seasons (15 vs 21 days, p=0.08). Across all studies, there was greater seasonal variation with respiratory prodrome (IRR=3.06, 1.84–5.11, p<0.0001) than diarrhoeal prodrome (IRR=1.10, 0.60–2.00, p=0.76) and a greater incidence in winter in Western countries (IRR=1.28), the Far East (IRR=1.20) and Middle East (IRR=1.12), with a lower incidence in the Indian subcontinent (IRR=0.86) and Latin America (IRR=0.75).

Discussion

Incidence of GBS was greater in winter than summer, but this was not evident in all geographical regions. This is likely to be related to regional variation in prodromal illnesses.
Risk of distal embolization with stent retriever thrombectomy and ADAPT
Authors: Chueh Ju-Yu , Puri Ajit S , Wakhloo Ajay K , Gounis Matthew J
Published: December 2014

Background

There is a discrepancy in clinical outcomes and the achieved recanalization rates with stent retrievers in the endovascular treatment of ischemic stroke. It is our hypothesis that procedural release of embolic particulate may be one contributor to poor outcomes and is a modifiable risk. The goal of this study is to assess various treatment strategies that reduce the risk of distal emboli.

Methods

Mechanical thrombectomy was simulated in a vascular phantom with collateral circulation. Hard fragment-prone clots (HFC) and soft elastic clots (SECs) were used to generate middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusions that were retrieved by the Solitaire FR devices through (1) an 8 Fr balloon guide catheter (BGC), (2) a 5 Fr distal access catheter at the proximal aspect of the clot in the MCA (Solumbra), or (3) a 6 Fr guide catheter with the tip at the cervical internal carotid artery (guide catheter, GC). Results from mechanical thrombectomy were compared with those from direct aspiration using the Penumbra 5MAX catheter. The primary endpoint was the size distribution of emboli to the distribution of the middle and anterior cerebral arteries.

Results

Solumbra was the most efficient method for reducing HFC fragments (p<0.05) while BGC was the best method for preventing SEC fragmentation (p<0.05). The risk of forming HFC distal emboli (>1000 µm) was significantly increased using GC. A non-statistically significant benefit of direct aspiration was observed in several subgroups of emboli with size 50–1000 µm. However, compared with the stent-retriever mechanical thrombectomy techniques, direct aspiration significantly increased the risk of SEC fragmentation (<50 µm) by at least twofold.

Conclusions

The risk of distal embolization is affected by the catheterization technique and clot mechanics.
C-arm rotation as a method for reducing peak skin dose in interventional cardiology
Authors: Pasciak Alexander S , Bourgeois Austin C , Jones A Kyle
Published: December 2014

Purpose

Prolonged interventional cardiology (IC) procedures may result in radiation-induced skin injury, a potentially preventable cause of patient morbidity. Rotating the C-arm during an IC procedure may reduce this risk, although the methods by which the technique can be practically applied remains unexplored. A previous study demonstrated that C-arm rotation often increases peak skin dose (PSD) in interventional radiology procedures. The purpose of this study was to determine whether C-arm rotation reduces the PSD in IC procedures and, if so, under what circumstances.

Materials and methods

Simulations were performed using a numerical ray-tracing algorithm to analyse the effect of C-arm rotation on PSD across a range of patient sizes, C-arm configurations and procedure types. Specific data from modern fluoroscopes and patient dimensions were used as inputs to the simulations.

Results

In many cases, modest C-arm rotation angles completely eliminated overlap between X-ray field sites on the skin. When overlap remained, PSD increases were generally small. One exception was craniocaudal rotation, which tended to increase PSD. C-arm rotation was most effective for large patients and small X-ray field sizes. Small patients may not benefit from C-arm rotation as a procedural modification. The use of a prophylactic method where the C-arm was rotated between small opposing oblique angles was effective in reducing PSD.

Conclusions

With the exception of rotation to steep craniocaudal angles, rotating the C-arm reduces PSD in IC procedures when used as either a procedural modification or a prophylactic strategy. Tight collimation increases the benefit of C-arm rotation.
Velocity-induced neutrino oscillation and its possible implications for long baseline neutrinos
Authors: Banik Amit Dutta , Majumdar Debasish
Published: December 2014

If the three types of active neutrinos possess different maximum attainable velocities and the neutrino eigenstates in the velocity basis are different from those in the flavor (and mass) basis, then this will induce a flavor oscillation in addition to the normal mass-flavor oscillation. Here we study such an oscillation scenario in three neutrino framework including also the matter effect and apply our results to demonstrate its consequences for long baseline (LBL) neutrinos. We also predict the possible signatures in terms of yields in a possible LBL neutrino experiment.
Smart Home Scheduling for Cost Reduction and Its Implementation on FPGA
Authors: Liu Lin , Yang Xin , Huang Han , Hu Shiyan
Published: December 2014

In a typical smart home scenario, various household appliances of a residential user such as washing machine and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) are connected via a home area network. Household appliances can be automatically scheduled by a central controller for satisfying the timing and energy constraints. It enables the reduction of monetary cost of electricity consumption and the peak energy load of the home system. On the other hand, the prevailing household appliances usually offer multiple discrete power levels. However, the existing smart home scheduling controllers can only handle the continuous power levels, while makes them unsuitable for prevailing household appliances.

In this paper, a dynamic programming-based scheduling technique is proposed and implemented on FPGA to schedule household appliances with discrete power levels. It features a solution pruning technique, which can largely improve the time complexity. A case study which constitutes ten household appliances is performed. The experimental results demonstrate that our technique can reduce the monetary cost by 39.3% on weekday and 27.2% on weekend, respectively, comparing to the traditional scheduling. For energy consumption balancing, it shows that the peak to average ratio (PAR) of the energy consumption is reduced by 43.6% on weekday and 24.0% on weekend, respectively.
Extended Unbalanced Operation of Induction Motor Driven System Based on a Single-Phase Electronic Power Transformer
Authors: Wang L. B. , Mao C. X. , Wang D. , Lu J. M. , Zhang J. F. , Chen X.
Published: December 2014

A new control strategy to extend the unbalanced operation of the induction motor driven system based on a single-phase electronic power transformer (EPT) is proposed in this paper. This new motor driven system avoids the traditional input power transformer and only single-phase power network is needed. It has a modular structure and consists of series H-bridges rectifier, output-parallel dual active bridge converters and a three-phase voltage source inverter. In the input stage, a new control strategy is proposed to balance the dc voltages among the series H-bridges and regulate the current. This new control algorithm determines the minimal reactive current to stabilize the converter when the loads are seriously unbalanced. In order to verify the new driven system, a 3 kV/462 V/180 kW EPT driving an induction motor is constructed in MATLAB/SIMULINK. The simulations results illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed unbalanced control algorithm and good dynamic behavior of the integrated control system for this new driven system.
Using Hybrid Particle Swarm Optimization Based on the Generating Capacity Adjustment Mechanism to Solve Economic Dispatch Problems of Cogeneration Systems
Authors: Chang Hong-Chan , Lin Shang-Chih , Kuo Cheng-Chien , Chiang Chao-Lung
Published: December 2014

This paper presents a computer technology called hybrid particle swarm optimization (HPSO) algorithm, to solve the economic dispatch (ED) problem of cogeneration systems. First outlined the status of the power system development and technical discussion, followed by test cases from the literature are used to evaluate the accuracy and validity of the algorithm. The HPSO algorithm combines genetic algorithm-specific mutation factor (MF) characteristics and the disturbance mechanism (DM), then used the exponential function to control the MF. A generating capacity adjustment mechanism (GCAM) is designed help the algorithm effectively identify the global optimum, effectively enhance the performance of the algorithm, the advantages of reducing computation time and the search range is reached.
Nonmesonic weak decay dynamics from proton spectra of Λ-hypernuclei
Authors: Krmpotić Franjo , De Conti Cláudio
Published: December 2014

A novel comparison between the data and the theory is proposed for the nonmesonic (NM) weak decay of hypernuclei. Instead of confronting the primary decay rates, as is usually done, we focus our attention on the effective decay rates that are straightforwardly related with the number of emitted particles. Proton kinetic energy spectra of [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], measured by FINUDA, are evaluated theoretically. The independent particle shell model (IPSM) is used as the nuclear structure framework, while the dynamics is described by the one-meson-exchange (OME) potential. Only for the [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] hypernuclei it is possible to make a comparison with the data, since for the rest there is no published experimental information on number of produced hypernuclei. Considering solely the one-nucleon-induced (1N-NM) decay channel, the theory reproduces correctly the shapes of all three spectra at medium and high energies (Ep ≳ 40 MeV). Yet, it greatly overestimates their magnitudes, as well as the corresponding transition rates when the full OME (π + K + η + ρ + ω + K*) model is used. The agreement is much improved when only the π + K mesons with soft dipole cutoff parameters participate in the decay process. We find that the IPSM is a fair first-order approximation to disentangle the dynamics of the 1N-NM decay, the knowledge of which is indispensable to inquire about the baryon–baryon strangeness–flipping interaction. It is shown that the IPSM provides very useful insights regarding the determination the 2N-NM decay rate. In a new analysis of the FINUDA data, we derive two results for this quantity with one of them close to that obtained previously.
QUADRICEPS STRENGTH, KNEE PAIN AND FUNCTIONAL PERFORMANCE WITH PATELLAR TAPING IN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS
Authors: Hanafy Abeer Farag , Abd El Megeid Abdallah Amira Abdallah
Published: December 2014

Background: Patellar taping has long been reported to be effective in relieving pain in patients with patello-femoral pain syndrome (PFPS). Yet, there is lack of knowledge that supports its use in knee osteoarthritis (OA) management. Purpose: This study examined the effect of therapeutic patellar taping on concentric and eccentric quadriceps muscle peak torques, VAS pain scores, 6-minute walking distance and stair climbing time in patients with knee OA. Methods: A total of 30 female patients with symptomatic knee OA with mean age 51.8 ± 6.3 years and BMI 32.56 ± 3.26 m2/kg participated in the study. They were tested under three taping conditions that were tested randomly; therapeutic, placebo and no-tape. Results: Repeated measure MANOVA revealed that the quadriceps muscle peak torques and 6-minute walking distance increased significantly (p < 0.05) and the VAS scores and stair climbing time decreased significantly with therapeutic tape use compared with the other two tapes. Moreover, the quadriceps muscle peak torques increased significantly and the VAS scores decreased significantly with placebo tape use compared with no-tape use, with no significant difference (p > 0.05) in between for the 6-minute walking distance and stair climbing time. Conclusion: The findings indicate that therapeutic patellar taping is effective in improving quadriceps strength and functional performance and reducing pain in patients with knee OA.
Pseudo-Dynamic and Quasi-Static Testing of an Irregular Steel Concrete Composite Frame with Wing Walls
Authors: Bai Yongtao , Bai Guoliang
Published: December 2014

This paper presents a series of pseudo-dynamic tests (PDTs) and quasi-static tests (QSTs) on a dual wing-walled frame system, represented here by a 1/7-scaled composite moment frame with steel reinforced concrete (SRC) columns and reinforced concrete (RC) wing walls. Special characteristics of this scaled system are irregular story layout, strong-beam weak-column mechanism and large axial load. A series of scaled El-Centro (NS) waves were used as the input ground motion for the PDTs, the results of which showed that the seismic behavior was significantly improved by the RC wing walls. With the strong-beam weak-column connections, severe damages sustained by the longitudinal wing walls (LWW) prevented the potential collapse of column, and the transverse wing wall (TWW) efficiently avoided the fragile shear failure of short columns and panel zone of beam-column joints. The failure mechanisms were identified indicating that wing walls improved the ductility for the bare frame. This study provides a solid experimental support on the evaluation of seismic behavior of irregular SRC frames with RC wing walls, which could be applied in the main factory buildings of thermal power plants (TPP).
AUTOMATED GATING OF PORTABLE CYTOMETER DATA BASED ON SKEW t MIXTURE MODELS
Authors: WANG XIANWEN , CHEN FENG , CHENG ZHI , DU YAOHUA , WU TAIHU
Published: December 2014

A major component of flow cytometry (FCM) data analysis involves gating, which is the process of identifying homogeneous groups of cells. With the rapid development of the portable flow cytometer, manual gating techniques have been unable to meet the demand for accurate and rapid analysis of samples. To provide a practical application for portable devices, we propose a flexible, statistical model-based clustering approach for identifying cell populations in FCM data. This approach, which mimics the manual gating process, employs a finite mixture model with a density function of skew t distribution and estimates parameters via an expectation maximization algorithm. Data analysis from an experiment on a patient’s peripheral blood samples have proven that the proposed methodology yields better results in terms of robustness against outliers than current state-of-the-art automated gating methods, has more flexibility in clustering symmetric data and leads to lower misclassification rates (misclassification rates of skew t method is 0.06442) when handling highly asymmetric data. The method we proposed will improve data analysis of portable flow cytometers, especially when the users have no professional training.
FREE VIBRATION OF MICROTUBULES AS ELASTIC SHELL MODEL BASED ON MODIFIED COUPLE STRESS THEORY
Authors: BENI YAGHOUB TADI , ZEVERDEJANI M. KARIMI
Published: December 2014

In this study, first, the thin cylindrical shell theory was derived from the modified couple stress theory and, afterwards, the vibration of protein microtubules (MTs) was investigated using the developed model. In order to model protein MTs more precisely, the cylindrical micro-shell model was used. Also, to take account of small size effects, equations of motion were obtained on the basis of the modified couple stress theory. For this purpose, first, using Hamilton's principle, vibration equations of cylindrical shell with boundary conditions were derived from the modified couple stress theory. Finally, the effects of size parameters, MT dimensions, and the medium surrounding on the axial and circumferential vibration frequency of the MT were examined. It should be noted that the results obtained from the cylindrical micro-shell model, unlike those from the beam model, have lower dependency on MT length, but they have extreme dependency on MT thickness and radius. In the end, it is worth noting that the model developed in this study can predict experimental results with greater precision compared to classic models. In other words, this model narrows the gap existing between experimental results and previous models and theories.
DYNAMICS AND IMPROVED COMPUTED TORQUE CONTROL OF A NOVEL MEDICAL PARALLEL MANIPULATOR: APPLIED TO CHEST COMPRESSIONS TO ASSIST IN CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION
Authors: ASGARI MOHSEN , ARDESTANI MAHDI A.
Published: December 2014

In cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), in practice, the rescuer usually uses two hands to perform the action of chest compressions. During chest compressions action, the two arms of the rescuer actually constitute a parallel mechanism. Inspired by this performance, this paper presents a novel structure of parallel manipulators from Delta robot family for chest compressions in rescuing a patient. Also, two new control methodologies are applied to track the desired trajectory. Based on one supervisory approach and another one based upon adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) approach. Inverse dynamic modeling is performed based on principle of virtual work and the results are verified using MSC.Adams© software. The proportional derivative (PD) controllers of computed torque (C-T) method usually need manual retuning to make a successful task, particularly in the presence of disturbance. In the present paper, we study and compare the feasibility of applying supervisory controller and ANFIS instead of conventional controller used in C-T method to cope with the above mentioned problem. Several computer simulations imply that the proposed method is encouraging compared with C-T method implemented with conventional controller.
MATHEMATICAL MODEL FOR THE TRANSPORT OF OXYGEN IN THE LIVING TISSUE THROUGH CAPILLARY BED
Authors: KHANDAY M. A. , NAJAR AIJAZ
Published: December 2014

Oxygen is essential for the survival of living tissues in the human body. The mechanism of oxygen transport in the human body is a subject of great concern. In the conditions like hypoxia and hypothermia, the amount of oxygen supply in the biological tissue loose homeostasis, thereby the concentration of O 2 and the liberation of CO 2 in the human body demands a special attention. The present study based on finite element method employed to the mass diffusion equation with suitable conditions has been established. The main objective of this work is to understand the behavior of O 2 through various compartments of the capillary bed. The concentration of O 2 at plasma and capillary layers has been estimated which in turn leads to understand the situation of oxygen transport during various situations.
Perceived Creativity: The Role of Emotional Intelligence and Knowledge Sharing Behaviour
Authors: Goh See-Kwong , Lim Kang-Yi
Published: December 2014

Knowledge sharing is deemed to be important for organisation as it helps to bring much benefits to the organisation, such as enhancing one's creativity. Knowledge sharing behaviour (KSB) is highly subjective and it depends on one's willingness to participate in such behaviour. Prior research has indicated that a person's emotional intelligence (EI) affects one's ability to share their knowledge and through knowledge sharing it helps to increase creativity in workplace. Despite such claims had been made by researchers, yet there is very little empirical examination has been conducted to examine the link between EI and perceived creativity through KSB. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of KSB as a mediator between EI and creativity. A survey was conducted and obtained a total of 176 valid respondents from 20 MNCs in Klang Valley. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to analyse the hypotheses. The results indicate that KSB mediates the relationship between EI and creativity. The results also indicate that EI plays an important role in influencing one's willingness to share his or her knowledge.
Probabilistic Analysis of Random Structural Intensity for Structural Members under Stochastic Loadings
Authors: Guo Siu-Siu , Wang Dongfang , Liu Zishun
Published: December 2014

The concept of structural intensity (SI) is extended to the random domain by introducing a physical quantity denominated random structural intensity (RSI). This quantity is formulated for mechanical systems whose dynamical responses are stochastic due to random excitations. In order to fully characterize the stochastic behavior of a system under random loadings, it is imperative to obtain the probability density function (PDF) of RSI. Based on the elastic theory and the definition of SI, RSI is expressed as functions of system responses. In general, the PDF of system responses is governed by Fokker–Planck–Kolmogorov (FPK) equation under the assumption that random dynamic loadings are idealized as white noise excitations. Therefore, the PDF of RSI is derived with the joint PDF of system responses. In the present study, four demonstrating cases of beams and plates under separately concentrated and uniform random loadings are studied to investigate the properties of RSI. Stationary and non-stationary PDFs of RSI at arbitrary section of beam and plate are obtained. Numerical results show that the PDF of RSI is transient at early stage of stationary loading and then converges to the exact stationary ones as time increases. With the obtained PDFs of RSI, energy transmission path over the beam and plate can be determined, which is guided from the locations with lower probabilities of RSI to the ones with higher probabilities of RSI. Furthermore, virtual energy flow sinks on the plate and beam can be found, which are identified by the locations with the maximum probabilities of RSI.
WHY ARE SUBOPTIMAL CONTRACTS USUALLY CHOSEN IN VENTURE CAPITAL BACKED NASCENT ENTREPRENEURSHIP?
Authors: CAI YINYIN
Published: December 2014

This paper attempts to interpret the reason for high failure rate in venture capital backed nascent entrepreneurship by applying contract theory and employing a theoretical model of contract choice between entrepreneurs and venture capitalists. The results of the model show that the suboptimal contract for new venture growth is not only the best choice of venture capitalists, but also the best choice of nascent entrepreneurs, which may lead to a high failure rate in venture capital backed nascent entrepreneurship. Some implications and solutions are also discussed.
ENTREPRENEURIAL DRIVE AND THE INFORMAL ECONOMY IN CAMEROON
Authors: ACHUA CHRISTOPHER F. , LUSSIER ROBERT N.
Published: December 2014

There is a growing appreciation for the value and impact of the informal economy on the lives and livelihood of many in developing economies. A key question for researchers has been whether those operating in it do so out of necessity or voluntarily as opportunity seekers? Unlike previous studies that have examined the informal economy as one large block, this paper took a slightly different tangent. First, we analyzed and identified three distinct sub-groups within the informal entrepreneurial sector — the street walker (st. walker), the street corner (st. corner) and store owner (st. owner) — and then examined each group's motives. Reporting the results of face-to-face structured interviews with 200 informal entrepreneurs in Cameroon (West Africa), the finding is that the majority, especially st. walker and st. corner informal entrepreneurs, are predominantly necessity-driven while st. owner entrepreneurs are predominantly opportunity-driven. Our study also revealed a progression pattern whereby st. walkers do progress to st. corner and ultimately to st. owner entrepreneurs. The assumption is that this does create a learning curve effect in the entrepreneurial abilities and effectiveness of store owners. This is an area for future research. There are policy implications for institutional support that can grow the informal economy into the formal economy.
DFT and TD-DFT calculations of axially substituted tin porphyrins and an ethynyl-linked tin porphyrin dimer
Authors: Agnihotri Neha , Steer Ronald P.
Published: December 2014

Time-dependent density functional theory calculations have been employed to characterize the inter-macrocycle interactions introduced when two tin(IV) porphyrins are axially covalently bonded via an ethynyl linker. The effect of changing the relative orientations of the two metalloporphyrin macrocycles is explored, with particular attention given to electronic states at energies up to the Soret-correlated states in the dimer. Expansion of the Gouterman four orbital approach for the monomer to an eight orbital approach in the dimer produces a satisfactory analysis. The results are used to examine the feasibility of using such linked structures in photon harvesting schemes.
Synthesis of push–pull porphyrin with two electron-donating and two electron-withdrawing groups and its application to dye-sensitized solar cell
Authors: Higashino Tomohiro , Fujimori Yamato , Sugiura Kenichi , Tsuji Yukihiro , Ito Seigo , Imahori Hiroshi
Published: December 2014

We synthesized for the first time a push–pull porphyrin dye bearing two diarylamino groups and two carboxyphenylethynyl groups as electron-donating and electron-withdrawing anchoring groups, respectively. The absorption spectrum displayed broad and red-shifted absorption, achieving panchromic light-harvesting in visible and NIR regions. Introduction of multiple push–pull groups into meso-positions is a promising strategy for the rational design of porphyrin sensitizers for light-harvesting applications. The preliminary photovoltaic performance is moderate (3.0%), but the extensive photocurrent generation matches with the excellent light-harvesting ability. Further modulation of the photovoltaic properties of porphyrin DSSCs will be possible by suitable selection of electron-donating and electron-withdrawing groups as well as introduction of the substituents into the porphyrin core.
Spectroelectrochemical characterization of meso triaryl-substituted Mn(IV), Mn(III) and Mn(II) corroles. Effect of solvent and oxidation state on UV-visible spectra and redox potentials in nonaqueous media
Authors: Gao Bingbing , Ou Zhongping , Chen Xueyan , Huang Shi , Li Bihong , Fang Yuanyuan , Kadish Karl M.
Published: December 2014

Two series of substituted manganese triarylcorroles were synthesized and characterized as to their electrochemical and spectroelectrochemical properties in CH 2 Cl 2, CH 3 CN and pyridine. The investigated compounds are represented as ( YPh )3 CorMn III and ( YPh )3 CorMn IV Cl , where Cor is a trianion of the corrole and Y is a Cl , F , H or CH 3 para-substituent on the three phenyl rings of the macrocycle. Each neutral Mn(III) corrole exists as a four-coordinate complex in CH 2 Cl 2 and CH 3 CN and as a five-coordinate species in pyridine. ( YPh )3 CorMn III undergoes two oxidations to stepwise generate a Mn(IV) corrole and a Mn(IV) π-cation radical. It also undergoes one reduction to generate a Mn(II) corrole in CH 2 Cl 2 or CH 3 CN . In contrast, the reduction of ( YPh )3 CorMn III leads to a Mn(III) corrole π-anion radical in pyridine. One oxidation is observed for ( YPh )3 CorMn IV Cl in CH 2 Cl 2 and CH 3 CN to generate a Mn(IV) corrole π-cation radical while Mn(III) and Mn(II) corroles are stepwise formed after reduction of the same compound. The second reduction of ( YPh )3 CorMn IV Cl in pyridine gives a Mn(III) π-anion radical as opposed to a Mn(II) corrole with an unreduced π-ring system. The neutral, reduced and oxidized forms of each corrole were characterized by electrochemistry and UV-visible spectroelectrochemistry and comparisons are made between the UV-visible spectra and redox potentials of the compounds in different central metal oxidation states. An overall reduction/oxidation mechanism in the three solvents is proposed.