bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti‐A and anti‐B hemagglutinin depletion during Cohn purification process of 5% immunoglobulin
Authors: Salvatore Alfonso , Esin Semih , Batoni Giovanna , Ascione Ester , Farina Claudio , Nardini Claudia
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

Polyvalent immunoglobulin G (IgG) products obtained by fractionation of human plasma are widely used to treat a broad range of conditions, including immunodeficiency syndromes and autoimmune, inflammatory, and infectious diseases. For high‐quality products and to minimize adverse events related to the use of intravenous IgG (IVIG) it is very important to perform detailed analyses of their components. One of these components, that in rare cases can cause severe hemolytic conditions, is the amount of hemagglutinins, natural antibodies that bind A and/or B (anti‐A or ‐B) antigens present in red blood cells (RBCs).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

To characterize different IgG batches and to monitor the efficacy of the production procedure in the hemagglutinin reduction, a direct agglutination test (DAT) and a new flow cytometry (FC)‐based assay were used for measuring the activity and the content of hemagglutinins in IgG samples obtained at different stages of the purification process.

RESULTS

A total of 113 batches of 5% IVIG, produced in 2013 by Kedrion Biopharma, were analyzed for the ability to agglutinate RBCs by DAT. All batches tested were within the limits set by the European Pharmacopoeia. Three batches of 5% IVIG were analyzed for their hemagglutinin levels. The finished products and the production intermediates were evaluated by the DAT and the FC assay. A significant decrease of anti‐A and anti‐B titer after the Fraction (F)III precipitation was observed in all batches tested and an evaluation of the results obtained by the two methods was performed.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that the hemagglutinin titer, accurately measured in a high number of 5% IVIG batches, is within the allowed limits for the DAT method. The specific production process employed, in particular the FIII precipitation step, successfully removes IgM and significantly reduces IgG class hemagglutinins.
Hemolytic events associated with intravenous immune globulin therapy: a qualitative analysis of 263 cases reported to four manufacturers between 2003 and 2012
Authors: Berg Roger , Shebl Amgad , Kimber Mary Clare , Abraham Maria , Schreiber George B.
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

Objectives of this study were to identify possible patient and product risk factors for intravenous immune globulin (IVIG)‐associated hemolysis, a recognized side effect of IG therapy; analyze IVIG indications; and examine dose levels (g/kg body weight) and total IVIG dose administered.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Reports of IVIG‐associated hemolysis for 10 years (2003‐2012) for four participating IG manufacturers were identified using a uniform case definition (Standardized MedDRA Query “Hemolytic disorders,” Broad Scope, Version 16.0) and analyzed.

RESULTS

IVIG‐associated hemolysis appears to occur predominantly at dose levels exceeding 0.5 g/kg, with 72% of cases with known dose information having dose levels between 1 and 2.5, and can affect patients at any age, without a clear gender preference. No association was found between hemagglutinin exposure and development of hemolysis, nor between dose levels and odds of receiving a transfusion to treat hemolysis. Patients with blood group AB may be at higher risk of hemolysis than those with group A or B.

CONCLUSION

Data examined confirm that IVIG‐associated hemolysis predominantly occurs following infusion of high IVIG doses, and can affect patients at every age of both genders. While presence of hemagglutinins appears to play a major role in pathogenesis of hemolytic disorders, high hemagglutinin titers of IVIG products themselves seem to be of less relevance, indicating that the pathomechanism of IVIG‐associated hemolysis may be related to the presence, but not the absolute amount, of hemagglutinins. Patients with hemolysis had additional hemolytic risks such as multiple comorbidities and medication use. IG‐treated patients with multiple risks should be closely monitored for hemolysis.
Is “milk crust” a transient form of golden retriever ichthyosis?
Authors: Roethig Anja , Schildt Kirsti J. M. , Welle Monika M. , Wildermuth Brett E. , Neiger Reto , Thom Nina
Published: July 2015

Background

A recessive inherited form of lamellar ichthyosis is well recognized in golden retrievers. In this breed, young puppies demonstrate a self‐limiting scaling disorder which is commonly recognized by breeders, who use the term “milk crust” to describe this syndrome.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To determine whether “milk crust” is a new keratinization disorder or a self‐limiting form of golden retriever ichthyosis.

Animals

A total of 179 golden retriever dogs (21 dams and 158 puppies) were examined.

Methods

Dermatological examination and assessment of the patatin‐like phospholipase‐1 (PNPLA1) genotype by PCR testing of buccal mucosal swabs. Skin biopsies from one affected puppy were evaluated for histopathological abnormalities.

Results

Forty‐five of 158 (28%) puppies exhibited scaling at 8 weeks of age; 113 of 158 (72%) were dermatologically normal. Of 144 analysed samples, 40 of 144 (28%) puppies demonstrated a homozygous mutation of the PNPLA1 genotype [of which, 36 of 40 (90%) had signs of scaling], 77 of 144 (53%) demonstrated a heterozygous mutation and 27 of 144 (19%) were a normal wild‐type. In six of 17 (35%) dams, a homozygous mutation of the PNPLA1 genotype was found, eight of 17 (47%) demonstrated a heterozygous mutation and three of 17 (18%) were normal wild‐type. Dams with a homozygous mutation were clinically unaffected. A 1 year follow‐up revealed that 23 of 28 (82%) puppies affected with this syndrome failed to develop typical signs of ichthyosis. In five of 28 (18%) dogs there was persistence of mild scaling.

Conclusions and clinical importance

We hypothesize that the clinical syndrome termed “milk crust” could represent a transient form of golden retriever ichthyosis. Remission is not fully linked to PNPLA1 genotype, suggesting that unknown factors may contribute to the clinical disease.
Owner assessment of pruritus and gastrointestinal signs in apparently healthy dogs with no history of cutaneous or noncutaneous disease
Authors: Stetina Kacie M. , Marks Stanley L. , Griffin Craig E.
Published: July 2015

Background

Determining the cause of pruritus relies on establishing the pattern of abnormal pruritus. The presence of gastrointestinal (GI) disease has also been helpful in determining the cause of pruritus. No study has systematically evaluated typicalGIsigns and pruritic behaviours in apparently healthy dogs.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To evaluate owners’ perceptions of pruritus andGIsigns in apparently healthy dogs, and determine if age, breed, activity, diet or supplements affected these signs.

Animals

Three hundred and fourteen apparently healthy dogs ≥12 months old with an unremarkable physical examination and no history of pruritus, otitis, skin/hair disease, metabolic orGIdisease were enrolled.

Methods

Thirty one veterinarians enrolled dogs after establishing their pruritus visual analog scale (PVAS) score and faecal consistency score (FCS); owners completed a comprehensive online survey regardingGIsigns, possible pruritic behaviours, ear cleaning and sneezing.

Results

APVASscore of ≤1.9 was recorded in 87.6% of dogs and theFCSwas 2–3 in 94.9% of dogs.PVASwas positively correlated with paw licking/chewing, facial/muzzle rubbing, head shaking and sneezing. Scooting was positively correlated with sneezing. Over 96% of dogs had 1–3 bowel movements (BM) per day. Age was positively correlated with facial/muzzle rubbing, sneezing, coprophagia and borborygmi. The number of walks/day was positively correlated with paw licking/chewing, head shaking, sneezing, number ofBM/day, coprophagia,belching, flatulence and borborygmi.

Conclusion and clinical importance

A standard method of asking relevant questions was developed and the frequency ofGIsigns and many behaviours that may indicate pruritus in apparently healthy dogs was established.
A preliminary survey of the histopathological features of skin from the planum nasale and adjacent skin of dogs unaffected by dermatological or respiratory disease
Authors: Hutt John H. C. , Dunn Karen A. , Scase Tim J. , Shipstone Michael A.
Published: July 2015

Background

There is a general belief that immune system cells are present in larger numbers in the planum nasale and adjacent haired skin than in other locations in the dog. However, little published information about the normal histological appearance of the skin of this area exists.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The aim was to obtain information about the normal histological appearance of canine skin for specific anatomical regions of the planum nasale and the haired skin adjacent to the planum nasale.

Animals

Samples from three sites were obtained from the planum nasale and adjacent haired skin of 25 dogs of varying age, breed and sex, with no evidence of dermatological or respiratory disease.

Methods

Samples were analysed to determine and quantify the immune system cells present in the samples. Slides were stained with haematoxylin and eosin or toluidine blue; immunohistochemical stains for CD3 and CD79a were applied.

Results

Immune system cells, including lymphocytes and plasma cells, were either very rare or present in low numbers. The majority of lymphocytes were of T‐cell origin, with only infrequent B cells identified. Samples contained numerous melanophages, consistent with pigmentary incontinence, regardless of the presence or absence of inflammatory cells. Mast cells and plasma cells were present in low numbers.

Conclusions

Inflammatory change noted in diagnostic biopsies from this area from dogs with clinical disease is likely to be of pathological significance. However, pigmentary incontinence appears to be common at this site in clinically normal dogs without significant inflammatory cell infiltration and is therefore not necessarily of pathological significance when seen in isolation in this location.
Just-noticeable difference of tone pitch contour change for Mandarin congenital amusics
Authors: Huang Wan-Ting , Nan Yun , Dong Qi , Liu Chang
Published: July 2015

Congenital amusia is a neuro-developmental disorder that may affect the processing of both music pitch and lexical tone. In the present study, the just-noticeable differences (JNDs) of tone pitch contour change were examined for three groups of Mandarin-native listeners: amusics with (tone agnosics) and without lexical tone difficulties (pure amusics), and matched controls. Tone agnosics showed significantly larger JNDs than normal controls, while pure amusics performed comparably with the controls. These results suggest that only those amusics with behavioral lexical tone deficits might be psychophysically impaired in pitch contour discrimination.
Economic reasoning and artificial intelligence
Authors: Parkes David C. , Wellman Michael P.
Published: July 2015

The field of artificial intelligence (AI) strives to build rational agents capable of perceiving the world around them and taking actions to advance specified goals. Put another way, AI researchers aim to construct a synthetic
homo economicus
, the mythical perfectly rational agent of neoclassical economics. We review progress toward creating this new species of machine,
machina economicus
, and discuss some challenges in designing AIs that can reason effectively in economic contexts. Supposing that AI succeeds in this quest, or at least comes close enough that it is useful to think about AIs in rationalistic terms, we ask how to design the rules of interaction in multi-agent systems that come to represent an economy of AIs. Theories of normative design from economics may prove more relevant for artificial agents than human agents, with AIs that better respect idealized assumptions of rationality than people, interacting through novel rules and incentive systems quite distinct from those tailored for people.
Comment on “Sedimentary DNA from a submerged site reveals wheat in the British Isles 8000 years ago”
Authors: Bennett K. D.
Published: July 2015

Smith
et al
. (Reports, 27 February 2015, p. 998) identify wheat DNA from an 8000-calendar-years-before-the-present archaeological site in southern England and conclude that wheat was traded to Britain 2000 years before the arrival of agriculture. The DNA samples are not dated, either directly or from circumstantial evidence, so there is no chronological evidence to support the claim.
Data, privacy, and the greater good
Authors: Horvitz Eric , Mulligan Deirdre
Published: July 2015

Large-scale aggregate analyses of anonymized data can yield valuable results and insights that address public health challenges and provide new avenues for scientific discovery. These methods can extend our knowledge and provide new tools for enhancing health and wellbeing. However, they raise questions about how to best address potential threats to privacy while reaping benefits for individuals and to society as a whole. The use of machine learning to make leaps across informational and social contexts to infer health conditions and risks from nonmedical data provides representative scenarios for reflections on directions with balancing innovation and regulation.
Community-Acquired Pyelonephritis in Pregnancy Caused by KPC-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Khatri Asma , Naeger Murphy Nina , Wiest Peter , Osborn Melissa , Garber Kathleen , Hecker Michelle , Hurless Kelly , Rudin Susan D. , Jacobs Michael R. , Kalayjian Robert C. , Salata Robert A. , van Duin David , Perez Federico , Bonomo Robert A. , Paterson David L. , Harris Patrick N. A.
Published: July 2015

Carbapenem-resistant
Enterobacteriaceae
(CRE) usually infect patients with significant comorbidities and health care exposures. We present a case of a pregnant woman who developed community-acquired pyelonephritis caused by KPC-producing
Klebsiella pneumoniae
. Despite antibiotic treatment, she experienced spontaneous prolonged rupture of membranes, with eventual delivery of a healthy infant. This report demonstrates the challenge that CRE may pose to the effective treatment of common infections in obstetric patients, with potentially harmful consequences to maternal and neonatal health.
Contact Lens-Related Infectious Keratitis with White Plaque Formation Caused by Corynebacterium propinquum
Authors: Todokoro Daisuke , Eguchi Hiroshi , Yamada Norihiro , Sodeyama Hirotake , Hosoya Ryuichi , Kishi Shoji
Published: July 2015

We report the first case ofCorynebacterium propinquumkeratitis in the compromised cornea of a diabetic patient wearing therapeutic contact lenses. The strain was identified to the species level based on sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene and RNA polymerase β-subunit-encoding gene (rpoB). Ophthalmologists should be aware of nondiphtherial corynebacterial infection of compromised corneas.
Comparison of Automated Quantitative Reverse Transcription-PCR and Direct Fluorescent-Antibody Detection for Routine Rabies Diagnosis in the United States
Authors: Dupuis Michelle , Brunt Scott , Appler Kim , Davis April , Rudd Robert
Published: July 2015

Rabies virus found worldwide and prevalent throughout the United States continues to be a public health concern.
Direct-fluorescent antibody (DFA) detection remains the gold standard for rabies virus diagnostics. Assessing the utility of a high-throughput molecular platform such as the QIAsymphony SP/AS, in conjunction with quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR), to augment or potentially replace the DFA test, was the focus of this project. Here we describe a triplex qRT-PCR assay, including assembly and evaluation for sensitivity, specificity, and ability to detect variants. Additionally, we compared the qRT-PCR assay to the gold standard direct fluorescent-antibody test. More than 1,000 specimens submitted for routine rabies diagnosis were tested to directly compare the two methods. All results were in agreement between the two methods, with one additional specimen detected by qRT-PCR below the limits of the DFA sensitivity. With the proper continued validation for variant detection, molecular methods have a place in routine rabies diagnostics within the United States.
Latent Expression of the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)-Encoded Major Histocompatibility Complex Class I TAP Inhibitor,
BNLF2a
, in EBV-Positive Gastric Carcinomas
Authors: Strong Michael J. , Laskow Thomas , Nakhoul Hani , Blanchard Eugene , Liu Yaozhong , Wang Xia , Baddoo Melody , Lin Zhen , Yin Qinyan , Flemington Erik K.
Published: July 2015

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)
BNLF2a
gene product provides immune evasion properties to infected cells through inhibition of transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP)-mediated transport of antigen peptides. Although
BNLF2a
is considered to be a lytic gene, we demonstrate that it is expressed in nearly half of the EBV-associated gastric carcinomas analyzed. Further, we show that
BNLF2a
expression is dissociated from lytic gene expression.
BNLF2a
is therefore expressed in this latency setting, potentially helping protect the infected tumor cells from immunosurveillance.
The inter-relationship among economic activities, environmental degradation, material consumption and population health in low-income countries: a longitudinal ecological study
Authors: Chuang Ying-Chih , Huang Ya-Li , Hu Ching-Yao , Chen Ssm-Ching , Tseng Kuo-Chien
Published: July 2015

Objectives

The theory of ecological unequal exchange explains how trade and various forms of economic activity create the problem of environmental degradation, and lead to the deterioration of population health. Based on this theory, our study examined the inter-relationship among economic characteristics, ecological footprints, CO2emissions, infant mortality rates and under-5 mortality rates in low-income countries.

Design

A longitudinal ecological study design.

Setting

Sixty-six low-income countries from 1980 to 2010 were included in the analyses. Data for each country represented an average of 23 years (N=1497).

Data sources

Data were from the World Development Indicators, UN Commodity Trade Statistics Database, Global Footprint Network and Polity IV Project.

Analyses

Linear mixed models with a spatial power covariance structure and a correlation that decreased over time were constructed to accommodate the repeated measures. Statistical analyses were conducted separately by sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and other regions.

Results

After controlling for country-level sociodemographic characteristics, debt and manufacturing, economic activities were positively associated with infant mortality rates and under-5 mortality rates in sub-Saharan Africa. By contrast, export intensity and foreign investment were beneficial for reducing infant and under-5 mortality rates in Latin America and other regions. Although the ecological footprints and CO2emissions did not mediate the relationship between economic characteristics and health outcomes, export intensity increased CO2emissions, but reduced the ecological footprints in sub-Saharan Africa. By contrast, in Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, although export intensity was positively associated with the ecological footprints and also CO2emissions, the percentage of exports to high-income countries was negatively associated with the ecological footprints.

Conclusions

This study suggested that environmental protection and economic development are important for reducing infant and under-5 mortality rates in low-income countries.
A comparison study on the prevalence of obesity and its associated factors among city, township and rural area adults in China
Authors: Zou Yan , Zhang Ronghua , Zhou Biao , Huang Lichun , Chen Jiang , Gu Fang , Zhang Hexiang , Fang Yueqiang , Ding Gangqiang
Published: July 2015

Objectives

To explore the association of dietary behaviour factors on obesity among city, township and rural area adults.

Setting

A stratified cluster sampling technique was employed in the present cross-sectional study. On the basis of socioeconomic characteristics, two cities, two townships and two residential villages were randomly selected where the investigation was conducted.

Participants

A total of 1770 city residents, 2071 town residents and 1736 rural area residents participated in this survey.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Dietary data were collected through interviews with each household member. Anthropometric values were measured. Participants with a body mass index (BMI) of ≥28.0 kg/m2were defined as obesity.

Results

The prevalence of obesity was 10.1%, 7.3% and 6.5% among city, township and rural area adults, respectively. Correlation analysis showed that for adults living in cities, the daily intake of rice and its products, wheat flour and its products, light coloured vegetables, pickled vegetables, nut, pork and sauce was positively correlated with BMI (r=0.112, 0.084, 0.109, 0.129, 0.077, 0.078, 0.125, p<0.05), while the daily intake of tubers, dried beans, milk and dairy products was negatively correlated with BMI (r=−0.086, −0.078, −0.116, p<0.05). For township residents, the daily intake of vegetable oil, salt, chicken essence, monosodium glutamate and sauce was positively correlated with BMI (r=0.088, 0.091, 0.078, 0.087, 0.189, p<0.05). For rural area residents, the daily intake of pork, fish and shrimp, vegetable oil and salt was positively correlated with BMI (r=0.087, 0.122, 0.093, 0.112, p<0.05), while the daily intake of dark coloured vegetables was negatively correlated with BMI (r=−0.105, p<0.05).

Conclusions

The prevalence of obesity was higher among city residents than among township and rural area residents. The findings of this study indicate that demographic and dietary factors could be associated with obesity among adults. Healthy dietary behaviour should be promoted and the ongoing monitoring of population nutrition and health status remains crucially important.
Integrating empowerment evaluation and quality improvement to achieve healthcare improvement outcomes
Authors: Wandersman Abraham , Alia Kassandra Ann , Cook Brittany , Ramaswamy Rohit
Published: July 2015

While the body of evidence-based healthcare interventions grows, the ability of health systems to deliver these interventions effectively and efficiently lags behind. Quality improvement approaches, such as the model for improvement, have demonstrated some success in healthcare but their impact has been lessened by implementation challenges. To help address these challenges, we describe the empowerment evaluation approach that has been developed by programme evaluators and a method for its application (Getting To Outcomes (GTO)). We then describe how GTO can be used to implement healthcare interventions. An illustrative healthcare quality improvement example that compares the model for improvement and the GTO method for reducing hospital admissions through improved diabetes care is described. We conclude with suggestions for integrating GTO and the model for improvement.
Ultrasonography for the prediction of urological surgical intervention in patients with renal colic
Authors: Taylor Mark , Woo Michael Y , Pageau Paul , McInnes Matthew D F , Watterson James , Thompson Jesse , Perry Jeffrey J
Published: July 2015

Context

There are no clear indicators of which ultrasound findings in an emergency department (ED) renal colic population are predictive of urological surgical intervention.

Objective

To determine the sonographic findings of renal colic that predict surgical intervention.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 500 consecutive ED patients with a diagnosis of renal colic that had ultrasonography (performed by radiology) during their ED visit. Our main outcome was urological surgical intervention. This was defined as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, percutaneous nephrostomy or ureteroscopy performed within 16 weeks of the initial ED presentation.

Results

Of the 500 identified patients, 483 met our eligibility criteria. Of this group, 67 (13.9%) received a surgical intervention. Ultrasound (US) findings were 97% (95% CI 88.7% to 99.5%) sensitive and 28.1% (23.9% to 32.8%) specific in ‘diagnosing’ the requirement for surgery when the ultrasound (US) showed either at least a stone present or showed moderate to severe hydronephrosis. The presence of stone and moderate to severe hydronephrosis had a + likelihood ratio (LR) 3.86 (2.46 to 6.07) and a −LR 0.72 (0.60 to 0.86). Having a stone ≥6 mm had a sensitivity of 77.6% (65.5% to 86.5%), a specificity of 73.6% (69.0% to 77.7%), a +LR of 2.94 (2.39 to 3.6) and a −LR 0.30 (0.19 to 0.48).

Conclusions

Radiology performed ultrasonography is a valuable tool for identifying renal colic that will go on to receive a surgical intervention in the 16 weeks following an ED visit. Further studies are needed to confirm the utility of ultrasound findings of stone visualisation, stone size and moderate to severe hydronephrosis in determining which patients need outpatient urology follow-up.
Social capital and common mental disorder: a systematic review
Authors: Ehsan Annahita M , De Silva Mary J
Published: July 2015

Objective

This study aims to systematically review all published quantitative studies examining the direct association between social capital and common mental disorders (CMD). Social capital has potential value for the promotion and prevention of CMD. The association between different types of social capital (individual cognitive and structural, and ecological cognitive and structural) and CMD must be explored to obtain conclusive evidence regarding the association, and to ascertain a direction of causality.

Design

10 electronic databases were searched to find studies examining the association between social capital and CMD published before July 2014. The effect estimates and sample sizes for each type of social capital were separately analysed for cross-sectional and cohort studies. From 1857 studies retrieved, 39 were selected for inclusion: 31 cross-sectional and 8 cohort studies. 39 effect estimates were found for individual level cognitive, 31 for individual level structural, 9 for ecological level cognitive and 11 for ecological level structural social capital.

Main results

This review provides evidence that individual cognitive social capital is protective against developing CMD. Ecological cognitive social capital is also associated with reduced risk of CMD, though the included studies were cross-sectional. For structural social capital there was overall no association at either the individual or ecological levels. Two cross-sectional studies found that in low-income settings, a mother's participation in civic activities is associated with an increased risk of CMD.

Conclusions

There is now sufficient evidence to design and evaluate individual and ecological cognitive social capital interventions to promote mental well-being and prevent CMD.
Sustainable livestock production
Authors: Robinson Nicola
Published: July 2015

After her veterinary degree, Nicola Robinson did a masters degree in environmental technology during which she carried out some project work for McDonald's to gain experience. She is now the company's agriculture manager
Experimental study on dynamic interference effect of two closely spaced machine foundations
Authors: Swain Abhijeet , Ghosh Priyanka
Published: July 2015

This paper presents an experimental study on the dynamic interaction effect of closely spaced square foundations under machine vibration. Under a dynamic condition, a number of large-scale model tests were conducted in the field, which includes a wide range of study on the isolated as well as interacting footing response resting on the local soil available at Kanpur, India. The dynamic interaction of different combinations (size) of two-footing assemblies was investigated by inducing vertical harmonic load on one of the footings (active footing), while the other footing (passive footing) was loaded with static weight only. The active footing was excited with different magnitudes of dynamic loading and the response was recorded for both footings, placed at a different clear spacing (S). The results are compiled and shown as the variation of displacement amplitude with frequency. The transmission ratio that predicts the effect of dynamic excitation of the active footing on the passive one is determined for the interacting footings and plotted with respect to frequency ratio.
Searching for cavities of various densities in the Earth’s crust with a low-energy ν̄e β-beam
Authors: Argüelles C. A. , Bustamante M. , Gago A. M.
Published: July 2015

We propose searching for deep underground cavities of different densities in the Earth’s crust using a long-baseline [Formula: see text] disappearance experiment, realized through a low-energy [Formula: see text]-beam with highly-enhanced luminosity. We focus on four cases: cavities with densities close to that of water, iron-banded formations, heavier mineral deposits, and regions of abnormal charge accumulation that have been posited to appear prior to the occurrence of an intense earthquake. The sensitivity to identify cavities attains confidence levels (C.L.s) higher than [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for exposure times of three months and 1.5 years, respectively, and cavity densities below [Formula: see text] or above [Formula: see text], with widths greater than 200 km. We reconstruct the cavity density, width, and position, assuming one of them known while keeping the other two free. We obtain large allowed regions that improve as the cavity density differs more from the Earth’s mean density. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the knowledge of the cavity density is important to obtain O(10%) error on the width. Finally, we introduce an observable to quantify the presence of a cavity by changing the orientation of the [Formula: see text] beam, with which we are able to identify the presence of a cavity at the [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] C.L.
Hydrogen storage on palladium adsorbed graphene: A density functional theory study
Authors: Pantha Nurapati , Khaniya Asim , Adhikari Narayan Prasad
Published: July 2015

We have performed density functional theory (DFT)-based first-principles calculations to study the stability, geometrical structures, and electronic properties of a single palladium (Pd) atom adsorbed graphene with reference to pristine graphene. The study also covers the adsorption properties of molecular hydrogen/s on the most stable Pd-graphene geometry by taking into account London dispersion forces in addition to the standard DFT calculations in the Quantum ESPRESSO package. From the analysis of estimated values of binding energy of Pd on different occupation sites (i.e., bridge, hollow, and top) of graphene supercells, the bridge site is found to be the most favorable one with the magnitudes of 1.114, 1.426, and 1.433 eV in 2×2, 3×3, and 4×4 supercells, respectively. The study of the electronic properties of Pd adsorbed graphene shows a bandgap of 45 meV, which can account for the breaking of the symmetry of the graphene structure. Regarding the gaseous (hydrogen) adsorption on Pd-adatom graphene, we checked the increasing number of molecular hydrogens ( H 2) from one to seven on the 3×3 supercell, and found that the adsorption energy per H 2 decreases on increasing hydrogen concentration and lies within the range of 0.998–0.151 eV.
Complexity and Stability in Biological Systems
Authors: Demongeot Jacques , Demetrius Lloyd A.
Published: July 2015

The hypothesis that a positive correlation exists between the complexity of a biological system, as described by its connectance, and its stability, as measured by its ability to recover from disturbance, derives from the investigations of the physiologists, Bernard and Cannon, and the ecologist Elton. Studies based on the ergodic theory of dynamical systems and the theory of large deviations have furnished an analytic support for this hypothesis. Complexity in this context is described by the mathematical object evolutionary entropy, stability is characterized by the rate at which the system returns to its stable conditions (steady state or periodic attractor) after a random perturbation of its robustness. This article reviews the analytical basis of the entropy — robustness theorem — and invokes studies of genetic regulatory networks to provide empirical support for the correlation between complexity and stability. Earlier investigations based on numerical studies of random matrix models and the notion of local stability have led to the claim that complex ecosystems tend to be more dynamically fragile. This article elucidates the basis for this claim which is largely inconsistent with the empirical observations of Bernard, Cannon and Elton. Our analysis thus resolves a long standing controversy regarding the relation between complex biological systems and their capacity to recover from perturbations. The entropy-robustness principle is a mathematical proposition with implications for understanding the basis for the large variations in stability observed in biological systems having evolved under different environmental conditions.
Classical blended quantum formulation of the parallel TDDVR method to the dynamics on furan
Authors: Sardar Subhankar
Published: July 2015

A major portion (∼98%) of the quantum-classical molecular dynamics approach, namely, Time-Dependent Discrete Variable Representation (TDDVR) method, is recently parallelized using shared-memory parallelization scheme with the aim of performing dynamics on relatively large molecular systems. Therefore, we have chosen the furan as a model system for dynamical simulation. Four lowest singlet excited electronic states 1A2(3s), 1B2(V), 1A1(V*), and 1B1(3p) of furan are vibronically coupled through several conical intersections in the vicinity of Frank-Condon region. The major focus of the present paper is to explore the efficiency of our newly implemented parallelized TDDVR algorithm to perform dynamics on large dimensional quantum systems in vibronically coupled electronic manifold. The present version of parallelized TDDVR algorithm show closely linear speed up with increasing number of computing processors. As a significant speed up is achieved by cycling in the correct way over arrays, all dynamical simulations are performed within a reasonable wall clock time. The photoelectron spectra calculated by the TDDVR method show peak by peak correspondence with the experimental spectra. The TDDVR calculated quantum-classical dynamical outcomes, viz., population and photoelectron spectra, etc. show good agreement with the findings of the well-established quantum dynamical method, i.e. Multi Configuration Time-Dependent Hartree (MCTDH) approach.
Dual Propionibacterium acnes therapy using skin penetration-enhanced liposomes loaded with a photosensitizer and an antibiotic
Authors: Park Hyejin , Park Hyung , Na Kun
Published: July 2015

Various antibiotics and photosensitizers are used for Propionibacterium acnes therapy. However, the success rate of therapy is limited because of antibiotic resistance, side-effects of photodynamic therapy using photosensitizer and the low skin-penetration efficiency of antibiotics and photosensitizers. In this study, to enhance the skin penetration efficiency, maintain their photodynamic activity and induce dual antibacterial therapeutic effects, we prepare erythromycin and branched polyethyleneimin-hematoporphyrin (bPEI-HPP) conjugates were loaded into liposomes (cationic photosensitizer-erythromycin loaded liposomes, CP-L (bPEI-HPP 10 mg; CP-L 1 and 20 mg; CP-L 2)). The tissue penetration efficiency of CP-Ls was determined by the Franz cell diffusion system and fluorescence microscopy. The penetration efficiency of CP-Ls is greater than that of bPEI-HPP, unloaded cationic photosensitizer and free HPP because CP-Ls comprised phospholipids that are similar to the cell membrane lipid composition. For in vitro antibacterial effects, Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) were used. The loss of viability rate of P. acnes by CP-L 2 (95%) from the colony forming unit (CFU) assay, was 2.4-fold higher than erythromycin-loaded liposomes (39%) and 1.9-fold higher than bPEI-HPP-loaded liposomes (50%). Therefore, we suggest that polycationic photosensitizer and antibiotic-loaded liposomes have potential applications in clinical photodynamic anti-bacterial therapy.
Evolutionary algorithm based on dynamical structure of membrane systems in uncertain environments
Authors: Liu Chuang , Fan Linan
Published: July 2015

In this paper, a new evolutionary algorithm based on a membrane system is proposed to solve the dynamic or uncertain optimization problems. The proposed algorithm employs objects, a dynamical membrane structure and several reaction rules of the membrane systems. The object represents a candidate solution of the optimization problems. The dynamical structure consists of the nested membranes where a skin membrane contains several membranes, which is useful for the proposed algorithm that finds optimal solutions. The reaction rules are designed to locate and track the optimal solutions of the dynamic optimization problems (DOPs), which are inspired by processing the chemical compounds in the region of cellular membranes. Experimental study is conducted based on the moving peaks benchmark to evaluate the performance of the proposed algorithm in comparison with three state-of-the-art dynamic optimization algorithms. The results indicate the proposed algorithm is effective to solve the DOPs.
Hawkes Processes in Finance
Authors: Bacry Emmanuel , Mastromatteo Iacopo , Muzy Jean-François
Published: July 2015

In this paper we propose an overview of the recent academic literature devoted to the applications of Hawkes processes in finance. Hawkes processes constitute a particular class of multivariate point processes that has become very popular in empirical high-frequency finance this last decade. After a reminder of the main definitions and properties that characterize Hawkes processes, we review their main empirical applications to address many different problems in high-frequency finance. Because of their great flexibility and versatility, we show that they have been successfully involved in issues as diverse as estimating the volatility at the level of transaction data, estimating the market stability, accounting for systemic risk contagion, devising optimal execution strategies or capturing the dynamics of the full order book.
Angiotensin II stimulates internalization and degradation of arterial myocyte plasma membrane BK channels to induce vasoconstriction
Authors: Leo M. Dennis , Bulley Simon , Bannister John P. , Kuruvilla Korah P. , Narayanan Damodaran , Jaggar Jonathan H.
Published: July 2015

Arterial smooth muscle cells (myocytes) express large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (BK) channel α and auxiliary β1 subunits that modulate arterial contractility. In arterial myocytes, β1 subunits are stored within highly mobile rab11A-positive recycling endosomes. In contrast, BKα subunits are primarily plasma membrane-localized. Trafficking pathways for BKα and whether physiological stimuli that regulate arterial contractility alter BKα localization in arterial myocytes are unclear. Here, using biotinylation, immunofluorescence resonance energy transfer (immunoFRET) microscopy, and RNAi-mediated knockdown, we demonstrate that rab4A-positive early endosomes traffic BKα to the plasma membrane in myocytes of resistance-size cerebral arteries. Angiotensin II (ANG II), a vasoconstrictor, reduced both surface and total BKα, an effect blocked by bisindolylmaleimide-II, concanavalin A, and dynasore, protein kinase C (PKC), internalization, and endocytosis inhibitors, respectively. In contrast, ANG II did not reduce BKα mRNA, and sodium nitroprusside, a nitric oxide donor, did not alter surface BKα protein over the same time course. MG132 and bafilomycin A, proteasomal and lysosomal inhibitors, respectively, also inhibited the ANG II-induced reduction in surface and total BKα, resulting in intracellular BKα accumulation. ANG II-mediated BK channel degradation reduced BK currents in isolated myocytes and functional responses to iberiotoxin, a BK channel blocker, and NS1619, a BK activator, in pressurized (60 mmHg) cerebral arteries. These data indicate that rab4A-positive early endosomes traffic BKα to the plasma membrane in arterial myocytes. We also show that ANG II stimulates PKC-dependent BKα internalization and degradation. These data describe a unique mechanism by which ANG II inhibits arterial myocyte BK currents, by reducing surface channel number, to induce vasoconstriction.
Methodological comparison of active- and passive-driven oscillations in blood pressure; implications for the assessment of cerebral pressure-flow relationships
Authors: Smirl Jonathan D. , Hoffman Keegan , Tzeng Yu-Chieh , Hansen Alex , Ainslie Philip N.
Published: July 2015

We examined the between-day reproducibility of active (squat-stand maneuvers)- and passive [oscillatory lower-body negative pressure (OLBNP) maneuvers]-driven oscillations in blood pressure. These relationships were examined in both younger ( n = 10; 25 ± 3 yr) and older ( n = 9; 66 ± 4 yr) adults. Each testing protocol incorporated rest (5 min), followed by driven maneuvers at 0.05 (5 min) and 0.10 (5 min) Hz to increase blood-pressure variability and improve assessment of the pressure-flow dynamics using linear transfer function analysis. Beat-to-beat blood pressure, middle cerebral artery velocity, and end-tidal partial pressure of CO2 were monitored. The pressure-flow relationship was quantified in the very low (0.02-0.07 Hz) and low (0.07–0.20 Hz) frequencies (LF; spontaneous data) and at 0.05 and 0.10 Hz (driven maneuvers point estimates). Although there were no between-age differences, very few spontaneous and OLBNP transfer function metrics met the criteria for acceptable reproducibility, as reflected in a between-day, within-subject coefficient of variation (CoV) of <20%. Combined CoV data consist of LF coherence (15.1 ± 12.2%), LF gain (15.1 ± 12.2%), and LF normalized gain (18.5 ± 10.9%); OLBNP data consist of 0.05 (12.1 ± 15.%) and 0.10 (4.7 ± 7.8%) Hz coherence. In contrast, the squat-stand maneuvers revealed that all metrics (coherence: 0.6 ± 0.5 and 0.3 ± 0.5%; gain: 17.4 ± 12.3 and 12.7 ± 11.0%; normalized gain: 16.7 ± 10.9 and 15.7 ± 11.0%; and phase: 11.6 ± 10.2 and 17.3 ± 10.8%) at 0.05 and 0.10 Hz, respectively, were considered biologically acceptable for reproducibility. These findings have important implications for the reliable assessment and interpretation of cerebral pressure-flow dynamics in humans.
Utility of Shear Wave Elastography for Diagnosing Chronic Autoimmune Thyroiditis
Authors: Fukuhara Takahiro , Matsuda Eriko , Izawa Shoichiro , Fujiwara Kazunori , Kitano Hiroya
Published: July 2015

The aims of this study were to evaluate the utility of shear wave elastography (SWE) using acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) for diagnosing chronic autoimmune thyroiditis (CAT) and to verify the effect of fibrotic thyroid tissue on shear wave velocity (SWV). The subjects were 229 patients with 253 normal thyroid lobes (controls) and 150 CAT lobes. The SWV for CAT (2.47 ± 0.57 m/s) was significantly higher than that for controls (1.59 ± 0.41 m/s) (P<0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve for CAT was 0.899, and the SWV cut-off value was 1.96 m/s. The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy were 87.4%, 78.7%, and 85.1%, respectively. Levels of anti-thyroperoxidase antibodies and thyroid isthmus thickness were correlated with tissue stiffness in CAT. However, there was no correlation between levels of anti-thyroglobulin antibodies and tissue stiffness. Quantitative SWE is useful for diagnosing CAT, and it is possible that SWE can be used to evaluate the degree of fibrosis in patients with CAT.
Evaluation of Seven Time-Frequency Representation Algorithms Applied to Broadband Echolocation Signals
Authors: Starkhammar Josefin , Hansson-Sandsten Maria
Published: July 2015

Time-frequency representation algorithms such as spectrograms have proven to be useful tools in marine biosonar signal analysis. Although there are several different time-frequency representation algorithms designed for different types of signals with various characteristics, it is unclear which algorithms that are best suited for transient signals, like the echolocation signals of echolocating whales. This paper describes a comparison of seven different time-frequency representation algorithms with respect to their usefulness when it comes to marine biosonar signals. It also provides the answer to how close in time and frequency two transients can be while remaining distinguishable as two separate signals in time-frequency representations. This is, for instance, relevant in studies where echolocation signal component azimuths are compared in the search for the exact location of their acoustic sources. The smallest time difference was found to be 20 µs and the smallest frequency difference 49 kHz of signals with a −3 dB bandwidth of 40 kHz. Among the tested methods, the Reassigned Smoothed Pseudo Wigner-Ville distribution technique was found to be the most capable of localizing closely spaced signal components.
Algorithmic Mechanism Design of Evolutionary Computation
Authors: Pei Yan
Published: July 2015

We consider algorithmic design, enhancement, and improvement of evolutionary computation as a mechanism design problem. All individuals or several groups of individuals can be considered as self-interested agents. The individuals in evolutionary computation can manipulate parameter settings and operations by satisfying their own preferences, which are defined by an evolutionary computation algorithm designer, rather than by following a fixed algorithm rule. Evolutionary computation algorithm designers or self-adaptive methods should construct proper rules and mechanisms for all agents (individuals) to conduct their evolution behaviour correctly in order to definitely achieve the desired and preset objective(s). As a case study, we propose a formal framework on parameter setting, strategy selection, and algorithmic design of evolutionary computation by considering the Nash strategy equilibrium of a mechanism design in the search process. The evaluation results present the efficiency of the framework. This primary principle can be implemented in any evolutionary computation algorithm that needs to consider strategy selection issues in its optimization process. The final objective of our work is to solve evolutionary computation design as an algorithmic mechanism design problem and establish its fundamental aspect by taking this perspective. This paper is the first step towards achieving this objective by implementing a strategy equilibrium solution (such as Nash equilibrium) in evolutionary computation algorithm.
Aligned Space Time Block Codes for the 2-User X Channel with Secrecy Constraints
Authors: Mohaisen Manar
Published: July 2015

Interference alignment (IA) is a technique used to reduce the dimension of the interference, where consequently the multiplexing rate is increased. In the 2-user X channel, combining IA with space-time block codes increases the diversity gain. These gains are achieved with the cost of leaked information at unintended receivers, where this leaked information can be used to decode other receiver’s signals. In this paper, we consider each of the two two-antenna receivers as an eavesdropper with 1 or 2 additional eavesdropping antennas. As such, we suggest receiver structures to answer the question: “Is the leaked information sufficient to properly decode the unintended signals?” besides quantifying the leaked information in terms of secrecy sum rates (SSR). Interestingly, we show that the SSR is negative, indicating that the quality of the eavesdropped signals is superior to that of the intended signals. To assure confidentiality, we propose an interleaved multiple rotation-based transformation scheme that neutralizes any a priori knowledge about the structure of the eavesdropped information and rotates the transmitted symbols using orthogonal matrices, preserving both the power and the distance between symbols.