bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Nonculture Blood-Based Tests for Diagnosing Invasive Aspergillosis in an Animal Model
Authors: White P. Lewis , Wiederhold Nathan P. , Loeffler Juergen , Najvar Laura K. , Melchers Willem , Herrera Monica , Bretagne Stephane , Wickes Brian , Kirkpatrick William R. , Barnes Rosemary A. , Donnelly J. Peter , Patterson Thomas F.
Published: January 2016

The European
Aspergillus
PCR Initiative (EAPCRI) has provided recommendations for the PCR testing of whole blood (WB) and serum/plasma. It is important to test these recommended protocols on nonsimulated “
in vivo
” specimens before full clinical evaluation. The testing of an animal model of invasive aspergillosis (IA) overcomes the low incidence of disease and provides experimental design and control that is not possible in the clinical setting. Inadequate performance of the recommended protocols at this stage would require reassessment of methods before clinical trials are performed and utility assessed. The manuscript describes the performance of EAPCRI protocols in an animal model of invasive aspergillosis. Blood samples taken from a guinea pig model of IA were used for WB and serum PCR. Galactomannan and β-
d
-glucan detection were evaluated, with particular focus on the timing of positivity and on the interpretation of combination testing. The overall sensitivities for WB PCR, serum PCR, galactomannan, and β-
d
-glucan were 73%, 65%, 68%, and 46%, respectively. The corresponding specificities were 92%, 79%, 80%, and 100%, respectively. PCR provided the earliest indicator of IA, and increasing galactomannan and β-
d
-glucan values were indicators of disease progression. The combination of WB PCR with galactomannan and β-
d
-glucan proved optimal (area under the curve [AUC], 0.95), and IA was confidently diagnosed or excluded. The EAPRCI-recommended PCR protocols provide performance comparable to commercial antigen tests, and clinical trials are warranted. By combining multiple tests, IA can be excluded or confirmed, highlighting the need for a combined diagnostic strategy. However, this approach must be balanced against the practicality and cost of using multiple tests.
Permissive Sense and Antisense Transcription from the 5′ and 3′ Long Terminal Repeats of Human T-Cell Leukemia Virus Type 1
Authors: Laverdure Sylvain , Polakowski Nicholas , Hoang Kimson , Lemasson Isabelle
Published: January 2016

Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is a retrovirus, and, as such, its genome becomes chromosomally integrated following infection. The resulting provirus contains identical 5′ and 3′ peripheral long terminal repeats (LTRs) containing bidirectional promoters. Antisense transcription from the 3′ LTR regulates expression of a single gene,
hbz
, while sense transcription from the 5′ LTR controls expression of all other viral genes, including
tax
. Both the HBZ and Tax proteins are implicated in the development of adult T-cell leukemia (ATL), a T-cell malignancy caused by HTLV-1 infection. However, these proteins appear to harbor opposing molecular functions, indicating that they may act independently and at different time points prior to leukemogenesis. Here, we used bidirectional reporter constructs to test whether transcriptional interference serves as a mechanism that inhibits simultaneous expression of Tax and HBZ. We found that sense transcription did not interfere with antisense transcription from the 3′ LTR and vice versa, even with strong transcription emanating from the opposing direction. Therefore, bidirectional transcription across the provirus might not restrict
hbz
or
tax
expression. Single-cell analyses revealed that antisense transcription predominates in the absence of Tax, which transactivates viral sense transcription. Interestingly, a population of Tax-expressing cells exhibited antisense but not activated sense transcription. Consistent with the ability of Tax to induce cell cycle arrest, this population was arrested in G
0
/G
1
phase. These results imply that cell cycle arrest inhibits Tax-mediated activation of sense transcription without affecting antisense transcription, which may be important for long-term viral latency.

IMPORTANCE
The chromosomally integrated form of the retrovirus human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) contains identical DNA sequences, known as long terminal repeats (LTRs), at its 5′ and 3′ ends. The LTRs modulate transcription in both forward (sense) and reverse (antisense) directions. We found that sense transcription from the 5′ LTR does not interfere with antisense transcription from the 3′ LTR, allowing viral genes encoded on opposite DNA strands to be simultaneously transcribed. Two such genes are
tax
and
hbz
, and while they are thought to function at different times during the course of infection to promote leukemogenesis of infected T cells, our results indicate that they can be simultaneously transcribed. We also found that the ability of Tax to induce cell cycle arrest inhibits its fundamental function of activating viral sense transcription but does not affect antisense transcription. This regulatory mechanism may be important for long-term HTLV-1 infection.
Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis Virus Induces Apoptosis through the Unfolded Protein Response Activation of EGR1
Authors: Baer Alan , Lundberg Lindsay , Swales Danielle , Waybright Nicole , Pinkham Chelsea , Dinman Jonathan D. , Jacobs Jonathan L. , Kehn-Hall Kylene
Published: January 2016

Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) is a previously weaponized arthropod-borne virus responsible for causing acute and fatal encephalitis in animal and human hosts. The increased circulation and spread in the Americas of VEEV and other encephalitic arboviruses, such as eastern equine encephalitis virus and West Nile virus, underscore the need for research aimed at characterizing the pathogenesis of viral encephalomyelitis for the development of novel medical countermeasures. The host-pathogen dynamics of VEEV Trinidad donkey-infected human astrocytoma U87MG cells were determined by carrying out RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) of poly(A) and mRNAs. To identify the critical alterations that take place in the host transcriptome following VEEV infection, samples were collected at 4, 8, and 16 h postinfection and RNA-Seq data were acquired using an Ion Torrent PGM platform. Differential expression of interferon response, stress response factors, and components of the unfolded protein response (UPR) was observed. The protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) arm of the UPR was activated, as the expression of both activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) and CHOP (DDIT3), critical regulators of the pathway, was altered after infection. Expression of the transcription factor early growth response 1 (EGR1) was induced in a PERK-dependent manner. EGR1
−/−
mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) demonstrated lower susceptibility to VEEV-induced cell death than isogenic wild-type MEFs, indicating that EGR1 modulates proapoptotic pathways following VEEV infection. The influence of EGR1 is of great importance, as neuronal damage can lead to long-term sequelae in individuals who have survived VEEV infection.

IMPORTANCE
Alphaviruses represent a group of clinically relevant viruses transmitted by mosquitoes to humans. In severe cases, viral spread targets neuronal tissue, resulting in significant and life-threatening inflammation dependent on a combination of virus-host interactions. Currently there are no therapeutics for infections cause by encephalitic alphaviruses due to an incomplete understanding of their molecular pathogenesis. Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) is an alphavirus that is prevalent in the Americas and that is capable of infecting horses and humans. Here we utilized next-generation RNA sequencing to identify differential alterations in VEEV-infected astrocytes. Our results indicated that the abundance of transcripts associated with the interferon and the unfolded protein response pathways was altered following infection and demonstrated that early growth response 1 (EGR1) contributed to VEEV-induced cell death.
DDX3 Interacts with Influenza A Virus NS1 and NP Proteins and Exerts Antiviral Function through Regulation of Stress Granule Formation
Authors: Thulasi Raman Sathya N. , Liu Guanqun , Pyo Hyun Mi , Cui Ya Cheng , Xu Fang , Ayalew Lisanework E. , Tikoo Suresh K. , Zhou Yan
Published: January 2016

DDX3 belongs to the DEAD box RNA helicase family and is a multifunctional protein affecting the life cycle of a variety of viruses. However, its role in influenza virus infection is unknown. In this study, we explored the potential role of DDX3 in influenza virus life cycle and discovered that DDX3 is an antiviral protein. Since many host proteins affect virus life cycle by interacting with certain components of the viral machinery, we first verified whether DDX3 has any viral interaction partners. Immunoprecipitation studies revealed NS1 and NP as direct interaction partners of DDX3. Stress granules (SGs) are known to be antiviral and do form in influenza virus-infected cells expressing defective NS1 protein. Additionally, a recent study showed that DDX3 is an important SG-nucleating factor. We thus explored whether DDX3 plays a role in influenza virus infection through regulation of SGs. Our results showed that SGs were formed in infected cells upon infection with a mutant influenza virus lacking functional NS1 (del NS1) protein, and DDX3 colocalized with NP in SGs. We further determined that the DDX3 helicase domain did not interact with NS1 and NP; however, it was essential for DDX3 localization in virus-induced SGs. Knockdown of DDX3 resulted in impaired SG formation and led to increased virus titers. Taken together, our results identified DDX3 as an antiviral protein with a role in virus-induced SG formation.

IMPORTANCE
DDX3 is a multifunctional RNA helicase and has been reported to be involved in regulating various virus life cycles. However, its function during influenza A virus infection remains unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that DDX3 is capable of interacting with influenza virus NS1 and NP proteins; DDX3 and NP colocalize in the del NS1 virus-induced SGs. Furthermore, knockdown of DDX3 impaired SG formation and led to a decreased virus titer. Thus, we provided evidence that DDX3 is an antiviral protein during influenza virus infection and its antiviral activity is through regulation of SG formation. Our findings provide knowledge about the function of DDX3 in the influenza virus life cycle and information for future work on manipulating the SG pathway and its components to fight influenza virus infection.
Amino Acid Substitutions That Affect Receptor Binding and Stability of the Hemagglutinin of Influenza A/H7N9 Virus
Authors: Schrauwen Eefje J. A. , Richard Mathilde , Burke David F. , Rimmelzwaan Guus F. , Herfst Sander , Fouchier Ron A. M.
Published: January 2016

Receptor-binding preference and stability of hemagglutinin have been implicated as crucial determinants of airborne transmission of influenza viruses. Here, amino acid substitutions previously identified to affect these traits were tested in the context of an A/H7N9 virus. Some combinations of substitutions, most notably G219S and K58I, resulted in relatively high affinity for α2,6-linked sialic acid receptor and acid and temperature stability. Thus, the hemagglutinin of the A/H7N9 virus may adopt traits associated with airborne transmission.
Dissecting the Molecular Mechanisms of the Tropism of Varicella-Zoster Virus for Human T Cells
Authors: Sen Nandini , Arvin Ann M.
Published: January 2016

Studies of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) tropism for T cells support their role in viral transport to the skin during primary infection. Multiparametric single-cell mass cytometry demonstrates that, instead of preferentially infecting skin-homing T cells, VZV alters cell signaling and remodels surface proteins to enhance T cell skin trafficking. Viral proteins dispensable in skin, such as that encoded by open reading frame 66, are necessary in T cells. Interference with VZV T cell tropism may offer novel strategies for drug and vaccine design.
Anthropometric markers and their association with incident type 2 diabetes mellitus: which marker is best for prediction? Pooled analysis of four German population-based cohort studies and comparison with a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Hartwig Saskia , Kluttig Alexander , Tiller Daniel , Fricke Julia , Müller Grit , Schipf Sabine , Völzke Henry , Schunk Michaela , Meisinger Christa , Schienkiewitz Anja , Heidemann Christin , Moebus Susanne , Pechlivanis Sonali , Werdan Karl , Kuss Oliver , Tamayo Teresa , Haerting Johannes , Greiser Karin Halina
Published: January 2016

Objective

To compare the association between different anthropometric measurements and incident type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and to assess their predictive ability in different regions of Germany.

Methods

Data of 10 258 participants from 4 prospective population-based cohorts were pooled to assess the association of body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip-ratio (WHR) and waist-to-height-ratio (WHtR) with incident T2DM by calculating HRs of the crude, adjusted and standardised markers, as well as providing receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves. Differences between HRs and ROCs for the different anthropometric markers were calculated to compare their predictive ability. In addition, data of 3105 participants from the nationwide survey were analysed separately using the same methods to provide a nationally representative comparison.

Results

Strong associations were found for each anthropometric marker and incidence of T2DM. Among the standardised anthropometric measures, we found the strongest effect on incident T2DM for WC and WHtR in the pooled sample (HR for 1 SD difference in WC 1.97, 95% CI 1.75 to 2.22, HR for WHtR 1.93, 95% CI 1.71 to 2.17 in women) and in female DEGS participants (HR for WC 2.24, 95% CI 1.91 to 2.63, HR for WHtR 2.10, 95% CI 1.81 to 2.44), whereas the strongest association in men was found for WHR among DEGS participants (HR 2.29, 95% CI 1.89 to 2.78). ROC analysis showed WHtR to be the strongest predictor for incident T2DM. Differences in HR and ROCs between the different markers confirmed WC and WHtR to be the best predictors of incident T2DM. Findings were consistent across study regions and age groups (<65 vs ≥65 years).

Conclusions

We found stronger associations between anthropometric markers that reflect abdominal obesity (ie, WC and WHtR) and incident T2DM than for BMI and weight. The use of these measurements in risk prediction should be encouraged.
Facing the enigma of the vascular network in hepatocellular carcinomas in cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic livers
Authors: Vasuri Francesco , Fittipaldi Silvia , Giunchi Francesca , Monica Melissa , Ravaioli Matteo , Degiovanni Alessio , Bonora Sonia , Golfieri Rita , Bolondi Luigi , Grigioni Walter F , Pasquinelli Gianandrea , D'Errico-Grigioni Antonia
Published: January 2016

Aims

In this paper we aimed to analyse the typology and the phenotype of the different vascular modifications in human hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) with a new immunomorphological and gene expression approach. We also attempted to correlate these modifications with the histological parameters of tumour aggressiveness and the surrounding liver parenchyma.

Methods

Ninety-six HCCs (from 80 patients) were retrospectively enrolled, 46 occurring in non-cirrhotic livers, and 50 in livers transplanted for cirrhosis. Histopathological analysis, immunohistochemistry for CD34, Nestin and WT1 and RT-PCR for Nestin, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1R) mRNA were performed in all nodules.

Results

By correlating the CD34 and Nestin immunoreactivity in HCC vasculature with the tumorous architecture, we identified four vascular patterns (named from ‘a’ to ‘d’). Each of them was characterised by different expressions of TGFβ1 and IGF1R mRNA. Pattern a showed CD34-positive/Nestin-negative sinusoids, and was prevalent in microtrabecular lesions. Pattern b showed similar morphology and architecture as pattern a, but with Nestin-positive sinusoids and a significant ‘boost’ in IGF1R and TGFβ1 mRNAs. In patterns c and d a progressive sinusoid loss and a gain of newly formed arterioles were seen. Notably, HCCs with pattern a arose more frequently in cirrhosis (p=0.024), and showed lower incidence of microvascular invasion (p=0.002) and infiltration (p=0.005) compared with HCCs with other patterns.

Conclusions

Although future studies are surely required, the identification of different vascular profiles in HCCs from cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic livers may help clarify the relationship between HCC progression and aggressiveness.
Reticulocyte parameters of delta beta thalassaemia trait, beta thalassaemia trait and iron deficiency anaemia
Authors: Velasco-Rodríguez Diego , Alonso-Domínguez Juan-Manuel , González-Fernández Fernando-Ataúlfo , Villarrubia Jesús , Sopeña María , Abalo Lorena , Ropero Paloma , Martínez-Nieto Jorge , de la Fuente Gonzalo Félix , Cava Fernando
Published: January 2016

Aims

To analyse the differences in reticulocyte indices between delta beta thalassaemia trait (δβ-TT), beta thalassaemia trait (β-TT) and iron deficiency anaemia (IDA), and to correlate those differences with the physiopathological features of these three types of microcytoses.

Methods

We performed a descriptive study of 428 samples (43 δβ-TT, 179 β-TT and 206 IDA) that were run on Advia 2120 analyser (Siemens). The following reticulocyte indices were assessed: absolute reticulocyte count (ARC), percentage of reticulocytes, mean corpuscular volume of reticulocytes (MCVr), haemoglobin content of reticulocytes (CHr), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration of reticulocytes, red blood cell distribution width of reticulocytes (RDWr), haemoglobin distribution width of reticulocytes (HDWr) and reticulocyte subpopulations based on their fluorescence according to mRNA (low (L-R), medium (M-R) and high (H-R)), MCV ratio and MCHC ratio. Correlation between fetal haemoglobin (HbF) and RDWr in patients with thalassaemia was evaluated.

Results

RDWr was significantly higher in δβ-TT compared with β-TT (15.03% vs 13.82%, p<0.001), and so were HDWr (3.65% vs 3.27%, p<0.001), CHr (23.68 vs 22.66 pg, p<0.001) and MCVr (88.3 vs 85.5 fL, p<0.001). A good correlation was observed between HbF and RDWr (r=0.551, p<0.001). IDA subjects have more immature reticulocytes, but less ARC than β-TT, suggesting a certain degree of inefficient erythropoiesis in IDA in comparison with β-TT.

Conclusions

Previously described differences between δβ-TT, β-TT and IDA in the corpuscular indices of mature red blood cell can also be observed in reticulocytes. The degree of anisocytosis in reticulocytes from patients with thalassaemia is correlated with HbF.
Safety and effectiveness of large volume coils in the treatment of small aneurysms
Authors: Kulcsár Zsolt , Wanke Isabel , Rüfenacht Daniel , Wetzel Stephan G , Göricke Sophia , Kolia Kiriaki , Quarfordt Steven , Calvert Justin , Hawk Harris , Baxter Blaise
Published: January 2016

Background and purpose

Large volume soft design coils facilitate quicker aneurysm filling and high packing density. Our purpose was to analyze the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of the Penumbra Coil 400 (PC400) system in the treatment of small aneurysms.

Materials and methods

A retrospective analysis of prospective data collected at three different centers was performed on consecutive aneurysms <10 mm treated with the PC400 system. A total of 92 aneurysms were included in the study. Feasibility, procedure safety, angiographic and clinical results, and follow-up results were evaluated.

Results

Mean aneurysm size was 5.8±2.0 mm. An average of 2.5±1.3 coils with a mean length of 18±16 cm per aneurysm was used, resulting in a mean packing density of 45.6±14.4%. The thromboembolic event rate was 3.3% and no procedural aneurysm rupture was observed. Immediate adequate occlusion was achieved in 66% of aneurysms. During a mean follow-up period of 7.4 months the number of adequate occlusions increased to 91%.

Conclusions

Large volume PC 400 coils are safe and effective in the treatment of small aneurysms with a low thromboembolic complication rate and no hemorrhagic events. High packing densities are achieved with a low average number of coils used per aneurysm treated. The aneurysms demonstrated progressive occlusion over time, which probably suggests stability in the long term.
Unification of dark energy and dark matter based on the Petrov classification and space-time symmetry
Authors: Dymnikova Irina
Published: January 2016

The Petrov classification of stress-energy tensors provides a model-independent definition of a vacuum by the algebraic structure of its stress-energy tensor and implies the existence of vacua whose symmetry is reduced as compared with the maximally symmetric de Sitter vacuum associated with the Einstein cosmological term. This allows to describe a vacuum in general setting by dynamical vacuum dark fluid, presented by a variable cosmological term with the reduced symmetry which makes vacuum dark fluid essentially anisotropic and allows it to be evolving and clustering. The relevant regular solutions to the Einstein equations describe regular cosmological models with time-evolving and spatially inhomogeneous vacuum dark energy, and compact vacuum objects generically related to a dark energy through the de Sitter vacuum interior: regular black holes, their remnants and self-gravitating vacuum solitons — which can be responsible for observational effects typically related to a dark matter. The mass of objects with de Sitter interior is generically related to vacuum dark energy and to breaking of space-time symmetry.
Black holes and high energy physics
Authors: Grib A. A. , Pavlov Yu. V.
Published: January 2016

Three mechanisms of getting high energies in particle collisions in the ergosphere of the rotating black holes are considered. The consequences of these mechanisms for observation of ultra high energy cosmic rays particles on the Earth as result of conversion of superheavy dark matter particles into ordinary particles are discussed.
Approximate Maximal Frequent Pattern Mining with Weight Conditions and Error Tolerance
Authors: Lee Gangin , Yun Unil , Ryang Heungmo , Kim Donggyu
Published: January 2016

Since the concept of frequent pattern mining was proposed, there have been many efforts to obtain useful pattern information from large databases. As one of them, applying weight conditions allows us to mine weighted frequent patterns considering unique importance of each item composing databases, and the result of analysis for the patterns provides more useful information than that of considering only frequency or support information. However, although this approach gives us more meaningful pattern information, the number of patterns found from large databases is extremely large in general; therefore, analyzing all of them may become inefficient and hard work. Thus, it is essential to apply a method that can selectively extract representative patterns from the enormous ones. Moreover, in the real-world applications, unexpected errors such as noise may occur, which can have a negative effect on the values of databases. Although the changes by the error are quite small, the characteristics of generated patterns can be turned definitely. For this reason, we propose a novel algorithm that can solve the above problems, called AWMax (an algorithm for mining Approximate weighted maximal frequent patterns (AWMFPs) considering error tolerance). Through the algorithm, we can obtain useful AWMFPs regardless of noise because of the consideration of error tolerance. Comprehensive performance experiments present that the proposed algorithm has more outstanding performance than previous state-of-the-art ones.
Multiple Continuous Virtual Paths Based Cross-View Action Recognition
Authors: Zhang Zhong , Liu Shuang , Wang Chunheng , Xiao Baihua , Zhou Wen
Published: January 2016

In this paper, we propose a novel method for cross-view action recognition via multiple continuous virtual paths which connect the source view and the target view. Each point on one virtual path is a virtual view which is obtained by a linear transformation of an action descriptor. All the virtual views are concatenated into an infinite-dimensional feature to characterize continuous changes from the source to the target view. To utilize these infinite-dimensional features directly, we propose a virtual view kernel (VVK) to compute the similarity between two infinite-dimensional features, which can be readily used to construct any kernelized classifiers. In addition, a constraint term is introduced to fully utilize the information contained in the unlabeled samples which are easier to obtain from the target view. The rationality behind the constraint is that any action video belongs to only one class. To further explore complementary visual information, we utilize multiple continuous virtual paths. The original source and target views are projected to different auxiliary source and target views using the random projection technique. Then we fuse all the VVKs generated from all pairs of auxiliary views. Our method is verified on the IXMAS and MuHAVi datasets, and the experimental results demonstrate that our method achieves better performance than the state-of-the-art methods.
A Feature Selection Method for Improved Clonal Algorithm Towards Intrusion Detection
Authors: Yin Chunyong , Ma Luyu , Feng Lu
Published: January 2016

Intrusion detection is a kind of security mechanism which is used to detect attacks and intrusion behaviors. Due to the low accuracy and the high false positive rate of the existing clonal selection algorithms applied to intrusion detection, in this paper, we proposed a feature selection method for improved clonal algorithm. The improved method detects the intrusion behavior by selecting the best individual overall and clones them. Experimental results show that the feature selection algorithm is better than the traditional feature selection algorithm on the different classifiers, and it is shown that the final detection results are better than traditional clonal algorithm with 99.6% accuracy and 0.1% false positive rate.
Structural properties of heavy and superheavy nuclei in a semi-microscopic approach
Authors: Ismail M. , Ellithi A. Y. , Adel A. , Anwer Hisham
Published: January 2016

The structure of some heavy and superheavy nuclei with [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is studied using a semi-microscopic model. In this approach, the macroscopic energy part of the total energy of a nucleus is obtained from the Skyrme nucleon–nucleon interaction in the semi-classical extended Thomas–Fermi approach. The microscopic shell-plus pairing correction energies are calculated in Strutinsky’s approach. Within this semi-microscopic approach, the total energy surfaces are investigated in multidimensional deformation space. For each nucleus, the model predictions for the binding energy, deformation energy, the deformation parameters and comparison with other theoretical models are presented. The proposed model shows a significant consistency with other models, and it is found to be successful in reproducing the structural properties of nuclei in heavy and superheavy region.
MULTIFRACTAL BEHAVIOR OF WIND SPEED AND WIND DIRECTION
Authors: WEERASINGHE R. M. , PANNILA A. S. , JAYANANDA M. K. , SONNADARA D. U. J.
Published: January 2016

In this paper, an analysis of temporal variation of wind speed and wind direction recorded at 10 min intervals are presented. The measurements were carried out at Hambanthota, a site located in the southern coastal belt of Sri Lanka which has a high potential for wind power generation. The multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis was used to analyze the temporal scaling properties of wind speeds and wind directions. The analysis was carried out for seasonal variation of wind speed and wind direction. It was observed that the scaling behavior of wind speed in Hambanthota is similar to the scaling behavior observed in previous studies which were carried out in other parts of the world. The seasonal wind and wind direction change exhibits different scaling behavior. No difference in scaling behavior was observed with heights. The degree of multifractality is high for wind direction when compared with wind speed for each season.
The intersection of nonabelian subgroups of finite p-groups
Authors: Zhang Lihua
Published: January 2016

Let [Formula: see text] denote the intersection of all nonabelian subgroups of a finite group [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we investigate the influences of [Formula: see text] on the structure of a finite group [Formula: see text].
On the semigroups of order-preserving transformations generated by idempotents of rank n −1
Authors: Zhao Ping
Published: January 2016

Let [Formula: see text] be the semigroup of all singular order-preserving mappings on the finite set [Formula: see text]. It is known that [Formula: see text] is generated by its set of idempotents of rank [Formula: see text], and its rank and idempotent rank are [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively. In this paper, we study the structure of the semigroup generated by any nonempty subset of idempotents of rank [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text]. We also calculate its rank and idempotent rank.
Prediction-Based Multi-Objective Optimization for Oil Purchasing and Distribution with the NSGA-II Algorithm
Authors: Yu Lean , Yang Zebin , Tang Ling
Published: January 2016

Due to the uncertainty in oil markets, this paper proposes a novel approach for oil purchasing and distribution optimization by incorporating price and demand prediction, i.e., the prediction-based oil purchasing-and-distribution optimization model. In particular, the proposed method bridges the latest information technology and decision-making technique by introducing the recently proposed information technology (i.e., extreme learning machine (ELM)) into the oil purchasing-and-distribution optimization model. Two main steps are involved: market prediction and planning optimization in the proposed model. In market prediction, the ELM technique is employed to provide fast training time and accurate forecasting results for oil prices and demands. In planning optimization, two objectives of general profit maximization and inventory risk minimization are considered; and the most popular multi-objective evolutionary algorithm (MOEA), nondominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II), is implemented to search approximate Pareto optimal solutions. For illustration and verification, the motor gasoline market in the US is focused on as the study sample, and the experimental results demonstrate the superiority of the proposed prediction-based optimization approach over its benchmark models (without market prediction and/or planning optimization), in terms of the highest profit and the lowest risk.
Investigation of charge transfer complexes formed between (S, S)-bis-N,N-sulfonyl bis-L-phenylalanine dimethylester donor with tetracyanoethylene and chloranil as π-acceptors: Experimental and DFT studies
Authors: Mohamdi Messaouda , Bensouilah Nadjia , Abdaoui Mohamed
Published: January 2016

Two novel charge transfer complexes CTC ([D[Formula: see text]TCNE] and [D[Formula: see text]CHL] : D [Formula: see text] (S, S)-bis-N,N-sulfonyl bis-L-phenylalanine dimethylester; TCNE [Formula: see text] Tetracyanoethylene; CHL [Formula: see text] Chloranil) were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis: Electronic absorption, spectrophotometric titration, IR. The obtained results indicate the formation of 1:1 for both complexes. The experimental studies were complemented by quantum chemical calculations at DFT/CAM-B3LYP level of theory. Optimized geometrical structures, the electronic spectroscopy, excited-state properties and the descriptions of frontier molecular orbitals were computed and discussed by time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT). In addition, vibrational frequency calculations, the natural population analysis (NPA) confirms the presence of intermolecular interactions and natural bonding orbitals (NBO) calculation was carried out in order to elucidate the interactions between TCNE [Formula: see text]-acceptor and donor molecule.
Infinity of geodesics in a homogeneous and isotropic expanding space-time
Authors: Adda Fayçal Ben , Porchon Hélène
Published: January 2016

In this paper, we construct a discrete simulation of an expanding homogeneous and isotropic space-time that expands via expansion of its basic elements to figure out properties and characteristics of such a space-time and derive conclusions. We prove that in such an expanding space-time, the geodesics are curved and more precisely, they fluctuate on the boundaries of the expanding basic elements. The non-existence of privileged expansion direction leads to the existence of an infinity of fluctuating geodesics between any two locations in this space-time, that provides a prediction of polarization in geometric optics, and a prediction of an earlier acceleration of the expansion as for the cosmic inflation model. This simulation is a case study and an example of space-time with variable topology using the principle of variation of topology via a transformation that creates holes.
On the zeros of linear combinations of derivatives of the Riemann zeta function
Authors: Koutsaki K. Paolina , Tamazyan Albert , Zaharescu Alexandru
Published: January 2016

In this paper, the zeros of linear combinations of the Riemann zeta function and its derivatives are studied. We establish an asymptotic formula for the number of zeros in a rectangle of height [Formula: see text]. We also find a sharp asymptotic formula for the supremum of the real parts of zeros of such combinations in a certain family.
On finite forms of Bailey's 2ψ2 transformation formulae and their applications
Authors: Bayad A. , Somashekara D. D. , Narasimha Murthy K.
Published: January 2016

In this paper, we study finite forms of Bailey's transformation formulae and therefrom, we deduce the Bailey's transformation formulae. Further, we derive finite forms of the complete mock theta functions of second order. Also we give a simple proof of one of Bailey's transformation formulae and present some applications.
On the least prime ideal and Siegel zeros
Authors: Zaman Asif
Published: January 2016

Let [Formula: see text] be a number field, [Formula: see text] be an integral ideal, and [Formula: see text] be the associated narrow ray class group. Suppose [Formula: see text] possesses a real exceptional character [Formula: see text], possibly principal, with a Siegel zero [Formula: see text]. For [Formula: see text] satisfying [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text], we establish an effective [Formula: see text]-uniform Linnik-type bound with explicit exponents for the least norm of a prime ideal [Formula: see text]. A special case of this result is a bound for the least rational prime represented by certain binary quadratic forms.
On some upper bounds for the zeta-function and the Dirichlet divisor problem
Authors: Ivić Aleksandar
Published: January 2016

Let [Formula: see text] be the number of divisors of [Formula: see text], let [Formula: see text] denote the error term in the classical Dirichlet divisor problem, and let [Formula: see text] denote the Riemann zeta-function. Several upper bounds for integrals of the type [Formula: see text] are given. This complements the results of [A. Ivić and W. Zhai, On some mean value results for [Formula: see text] and a divisor problem II, Indag. Math. 26(5) (2015) 842–866], where asymptotic formulas for [Formula: see text] were established for the above integral.
On power basis of a class of algebraic number fields
Authors: Jhorar Bablesh , Khanduja Sudesh K.
Published: January 2016

Let [Formula: see text] be an algebraic number field with [Formula: see text] in the ring [Formula: see text] of algebraic integers of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] be the minimal polynomial of [Formula: see text] over the field [Formula: see text] of rational numbers. In 1977, Uchida proved that [Formula: see text] if and only if [Formula: see text] does not belong to [Formula: see text] for any maximal ideal [Formula: see text] of the polynomial ring [Formula: see text] (see [Osaka J. Math. 14 (1977) 155–157]). In this paper, we apply the above result to obtain some necessary and sufficient conditions involving the coefficients of [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] to equal [Formula: see text] when [Formula: see text] is a trinomial of the type [Formula: see text]. In the particular case when [Formula: see text], it is deduced that [Formula: see text] is an integral basis of [Formula: see text] if and only if either (i) [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] or (ii) [Formula: see text] divides [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text].
Study of influence of millimeter range electromagnetic waves on water–saline solutions of albumin
Authors: Shahinyan Mariam A. , Antonyan Ara P. , Mikaelyan Marieta S. , Vardevanyan Poghos O.
Published: January 2016

In this work, the effect of electromagnetic waves of millimeter diapason (EMW MM) on both melting parameters of serum albumin from human blood and its solution density has been studied. It was shown that the irradiation of albumin solution results in protein denaturation at higher temperatures than in the case of nonirradiated samples, which indicates the increase of albumin packing degree. It was also shown that the enhancement of albumin solution density takes place which indicates the protein packing degree change as well. The obtained data show that the effect of EMW MM does not depend on frequency of these waves, because alterations are revealed at all studied frequencies — 41.8, 48 and 51.8[Formula: see text]GHz.
Uniform DNA Biosensors Based on Threshold Voltage of Carbon Nanotube Thin-Film Transistors
Authors: Deng Yanyan , Zhang Min , Yuan Fang , Li Zigang , Zhou Wenyu
Published: January 2016

Uniformity is a key parameter to assure the accuracy of biosensor devices. In this work, highly uniform carbon nanotube thin-film transistors (CNT-TFTs) with a standard deviation of threshold voltage ([Formula: see text]) as small as 0.04 were achieved by accurately controlling the fabrication process, which is so far the most stable distribution to our knowledge. On-state current ([Formula: see text]), off-state current and on/off current ratio also exhibit high uniformity with low standard deviation of 0.50, 0.72 and 0.54, respectively. Given the high uniformity, high stability and high sensitivity, the CNT-TFTs are used as ultra-sensitive 5-hydroxymethyl cytosine (5-hmC) detecting devices for the first time, which is one of the important modified bases in DNA and plays an important role in epigenetics. After attachment of 5-hmC DNA, a reproducible and stable shift of 18.7–59% in [Formula: see text] as well as a 31–54% change in [Formula: see text] were observed in the transfer characteristics curves of CNT-TFTs. Thus, a detecting device of 5-hmC in DNA segments could be designed based on the highly uniform CNT-TFTs.
An improved and modified infeasible interior-point method for symmetric optimization
Authors: Kheirfam Behrouz
Published: January 2016

In this paper an improved and modified version of full Nesterov–Todd step infeasible interior-point methods for symmetric optimization published in [A new infeasible interior-point method based on Darvay’s technique for symmetric optimization, Ann. Oper. Res. 211(1) (2013) 209–224; G. Gu, M. Zangiabadi and C. Roos, Full Nesterov–Todd step infeasible interior-point method for symmetric optimization, European J. Oper. Res. 214(3) (2011) 473–484; Simplified analysis of a full Nesterov–Todd step infeasible interior-point method for symmetric optimization, Asian-Eur. J. Math. 8(4) (2015) 1550071, 14 pp.] is considered. Each main iteration of our algorithm consisted of only a feasibility step, whereas in the earlier versions each iteration is composed of one feasibility step and several — at most three — centering steps. The algorithm finds an [Formula: see text]-solution of the underlying problem in polynomial-time and its iteration bound improves the earlier bounds factor from [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text]. Moreover, our method unifies the analysis for linear optimization, second-order cone optimization and semidefinite optimization.
Painlevé I double scaling limit in the cubic random matrix model
Authors: Bleher Pavel , Deaño Alfredo
Published: January 2016

We obtain the double scaling asymptotic behavior of the recurrence coefficients and the partition function at the critical point of the [Formula: see text] Hermitian random matrix model with cubic potential. We prove that the recurrence coefficients admit an asymptotic expansion in powers of [Formula: see text], and in the leading order the asymptotic behavior of the recurrence coefficients is given by a Boutroux tronquée solution to the Painlevé I equation. We also obtain the double scaling limit of the partition function, and we prove that the poles of the tronquée solution are limits of zeros of the partition function. The tools used include the Riemann–Hilbert approach and the Deift–Zhou nonlinear steepest descent method for the corresponding family of complex orthogonal polynomials and their recurrence coefficients, together with the Toda equation in the parameter space.
Novel regulatory mechanism in human urinary bladder: central role of transient receptor potential melastatin 4 channels in detrusor smooth muscle function
Authors: Hristov Kiril L. , Smith Amy C. , Parajuli Shankar P. , Malysz John , Rovner Eric S. , Petkov Georgi V.
Published: January 2016

Transient receptor potential melastatin 4 (TRPM4) channels are Ca2+-activated nonselective cation channels that have been recently identified as regulators of detrusor smooth muscle (DSM) function in rodents. However, their expression and function in human DSM remain unexplored. We provide insights into the functional role of TRPM4 channels in human DSM under physiological conditions. We used a multidisciplinary experimental approach, including RT-PCR, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry and immunocytochemistry, patch-clamp electrophysiology, and functional studies of DSM contractility. DSM samples were obtained from patients without preoperative overactive bladder symptoms. RT-PCR detected mRNA transcripts for TRPM4 channels in human DSM whole tissue and freshly isolated single cells. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry with confocal microscopy revealed TRPM4 protein expression in human DSM. Immunocytochemistry further detected TRPM4 protein expression in DSM single cells. Patch-clamp experiments showed that 9-phenanthrol, a selective TRPM4 channel inhibitor, significantly decreased the transient inward cation currents and voltage step-induced whole cell currents in freshly isolated human DSM cells. In current-clamp mode, 9-phenanthrol hyperpolarized the human DSM cell membrane potential. Furthermore, 9-phenanthrol attenuated the spontaneous phasic, carbachol-induced and nerve-evoked contractions in human DSM isolated strips. Significant species-related differences in TRPM4 channel activity between human, rat, and guinea pig DSM were revealed, suggesting a more prominent physiological role for the TRPM4 channel in the regulation of DSM function in humans than in rodents. In conclusion, TRPM4 channels regulate human DSM excitability and contractility and are critical determinants of human urinary bladder function. Thus, TRPM4 channels could represent promising novel targets for the pharmacological or genetic control of overactive bladder.
Na+-K+-ATPase, a new class of plasma membrane receptors
Authors: Aperia Anita , Akkuratov Evgeny E. , Fontana Jacopo Maria , Brismar Hjalmar
Published: January 2016

The Na+-K+-ATPase (NKA) differs from most other ion transporters, not only in its capacity to maintain a steep electrochemical gradient across the plasma membrane, but also as a receptor for a family of cardiotonic steroids, to which ouabain belongs. Studies from many groups, performed during the last 15 years, have demonstrated that ouabain, a member of the cardiotonic steroid family, can activate a network of signaling molecules, and that NKA will also serve as a signal transducer that can provide a feedback loop between NKA and the mitochondria. This brief review summarizes the current knowledge and controversies with regard to the understanding of NKA signaling.
Nonlinear identification of the total baroreflex arc: chronic hypertension model
Authors: Moslehpour Mohsen , Kawada Toru , Sunagawa Kenji , Sugimachi Masaru , Mukkamala Ramakrishna
Published: January 2016

The total baroreflex arc is the open-loop system relating carotid sinus pressure (CSP) to arterial pressure (AP). Its linear dynamic functioning has been shown to be preserved in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). However, the system is known to exhibit nonlinear dynamic behaviors. The aim of this study was to establish nonlinear dynamic models of the total arc (and its subsystems) in hypertensive rats and to compare these models with previously published models for normotensive rats. Hypertensive rats were studied under anesthesia. The vagal and aortic depressor nerves were sectioned. The carotid sinus regions were isolated and attached to a servo-controlled piston pump. AP and sympathetic nerve activity were measured while CSP was controlled via the pump using Gaussian white noise stimulation. Second-order, nonlinear dynamics models were developed by application of nonparametric system identification to a portion of the measurements. The models of the total arc predicted AP 21–43% better ( P < 0.005) than conventional linear dynamic models in response to a new portion of the CSP measurement. The linear and nonlinear terms of these validated models were compared with the corresponding terms of an analogous model for normotensive rats. The nonlinear gains for the hypertensive rats were significantly larger than those for the normotensive rats [−0.38 ± 0.04 (unitless) vs. −0.22 ± 0.03, P < 0.01], whereas the linear gains were similar. Hence, nonlinear dynamic functioning of the sympathetically mediated total arc may enhance baroreflex buffering of AP increases more in SHR than normotensive rats.
The endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition and endothelial cilia in EPC-mediated postischemic kidney protection
Authors: Patschan D. , Schwarze K. , Henze E. , Patschan S. , Müller G. A.
Published: January 2016

Renal ischemia induces peritubular capillary rarefication and fibrosis, with the latter partly resulting from the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT). Endothelial cilia transmit blood flow-associated forces into the cell. Early endothelial progenitor cells (eEPCs) have been shown to protect mice from acute kidney injury in the short term. The aim of the present study was to analyze midterm consequences of eEPC treatment in the context of endothelial cilia and the EndoMT. Male C57/Bl6N mice were subjected to unilateral renal ischemia postuninephrectomy. Syngeneic murine eEPCs were systemically injected at the time of reperfusion. Animals were investigated 1, 4, and 6 wk later. Cultured mature endothelial cells were exposed to a variable flow with versus without eEPC supernatant incubation. Systemically injected eEPCs reduced serum creatinine levels at week 1 (35 and 45 min) and week 4 (45 min). Interstitial fibrosis was significantly diminished by cell treatment at all time points as well. The EndoMT was less pronounced at week 4 (35 min) and week 6 (45 min). eEPC supernatant reduced α-smooth muscle actin expression and α-tubulin abundance in flow-treated cultured mature endothelial cells, and percentages of cilium-positive cells increased. The loss of peritubular capillaries was prevented by eEPCs. Intrarenal endothelial α-tubulin decreased postischemia and was further reduced by eEPC administration. We conclude that eEPCs are capable of reorganizing the endothelial cytoskeleton in an indirect manner, ultimately resulting in stabilization of the endothelial ciliome. The investigation indicates an antimesenchymal role of endothelial cilia in the process of postischemic tissue fibrosis/EndoMT.