bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SNAP23-Dependent Surface Translocation of Leukotriene B
4
(LTB
4
) Receptor 1 Is Essential for NOX2-Mediated Exocytotic Degranulation in Human Mast Cells Induced by Trichomonas vaginalis-Secreted LTB
4
Authors: Min Arim , Lee Young Ah , Kim Kyeong Ah , El-Benna Jamel , Shin Myeong Heon
Published: October 2016

Trichomonas vaginalis
is a sexually transmitted parasite that causes vaginitis in women and itself secretes lipid mediator leukotriene B
4
(LTB
4
). Mast cells are important effector cells of tissue inflammation during infection with parasites. Membrane-bridging SNARE (soluble
N
-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor) complexes are critical for fusion during exocytosis. Although
T. vaginalis
-derived secretory products (TvSP) have been shown to induce exocytosis in mast cells, information regarding the signaling mechanisms between mast cell activation and TvSP is limited. In this study, we found that SNAP23-dependent surface trafficking of LTB
4
receptor 1 (BLT1) is required for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 2 (NOX2)-mediated exocytotic degranulation of mast cells induced by TvSP. First, stimulation with TvSP induced exocytotic degranulation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in HMC-1 cells. Next, TvSP-induced ROS generation and exocytosis were strongly inhibited by transfection of BLT1 small interfering RNA (siRNA). TvSP induced trafficking of BLT1 from the cytosol to the plasma membrane. We also found that knockdown of SNAP23 abrogated TvSP-induced ROS generation, exocytosis, and surface trafficking of BLT1 in HMC-1 cells. By coimmunoprecipitation, there was a physical interaction between BLT1 and SNAP23 in TvSP-stimulated HMC-1 cells. Taken together, our results suggest that SNAP23-dependent surface trafficking of BLT1 is essential for exocytosis in human mast cells induced by
T. vaginalis
-secreted LTB
4
. Our data collectively demonstrate a novel regulatory mechanism for SNAP23-dependent mast cell activation of
T. vaginalis
-secreted LTB
4
involving surface trafficking of BLT1. These results can help to explain how the cross talk mechanism between parasite and host can govern deliberately tissue inflammatory responses.
Immunity Provided by an Outer Membrane Vesicle Cholera Vaccine Is Due to O-Antigen-Specific Antibodies Inhibiting Bacterial Motility
Authors: Wang Zhu , Lazinski David W. , Camilli Andrew
Published: October 2016

An outer membrane vesicle (OMV)-based cholera vaccine is highly efficacious in preventing intestinal colonization in the suckling mouse model. Immunity from OMVs comes from immunoglobulin (Ig), particularly IgG, in the milk of mucosally immunized dams. Anti-OMV IgG rendersVibrio choleraeorganisms immotile, thus they pass through the small intestine without colonizing. However, the importance of motility inhibition for protection and the mechanism by which motility is inhibited remain unclear. By using bothin vitroandin vivoexperiments, we found that IgG inhibits motility by specifically binding to the O-antigen ofV. cholerae. We demonstrate that the bivalent structure of IgG, although not required for binding to the O-antigen, is required for motility inhibition. Finally, we show using competition assays in suckling mice that inhibition of motility appears to be responsible for most, if not all, of the protection engendered by OMV vaccination, thus providing insight into the mechanism of immune protection.
A Pyrosequencing-Based Approach to High-Throughput Identification of Influenza A(H3N2) Virus Clades Harboring Antigenic Drift Variants
Authors: Mishin Vasiliy P. , Baranovich Tatiana , Garten Rebecca , Chesnokov Anton , Abd Elal Anwar I. , Adamczyk Michelle , LaPlante Jennifer , St. George Kirsten , Fry Alicia M. , Barnes John , Chester Stephanie C. , Xu Xiyan , Katz Jacqueline M. , Wentworth David E. , Gubareva Larisa V.
Published: October 2016

The rapid evolution of influenza A(H3N2) viruses necessitates close monitoring of their antigenic properties so the emergence and spread of antigenic drift variants can be rapidly identified. Changes in hemagglutinin (HA) acquired by contemporary A(H3N2) viruses hinder antigenic characterization by traditional methods, thus complicating vaccine strain selection. Sequence-based approaches have been used to infer virus antigenicity; however, they are time consuming and mid-throughput. To facilitate virological surveillance and epidemiological studies, we developed and validated a pyrosequencing approach that enables identification of six HA clades of contemporary A(H3N2) viruses. The identification scheme of viruses of the H3 clades 3C.2, 3C.2a, 3C.2b, 3C.3, 3C.3a, and 3C.3b is based on the interrogation of five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within three neighboring HA regions, namely 412 to 431, 465 to 481, and 559 to 571. Two bioinformatics tools, IdentiFire (Qiagen) and FireComb (developed in-house), were utilized to expedite pyrosequencing data analysis. The assay's analytical sensitivity was 10 focus forming units, and respiratory specimens with threshold cycle (

C
T

) values of <34 typically produced good quality pyrograms. When applied to 120 A(H3N2) virus isolates and 27 respiratory specimens, the assay displayed 100% agreement with clades determined by HA sequencing coupled with phylogenetics. The multi-SNP analysis described here was readily adopted by another laboratory with pyrosequencing capabilities. The implementation of this approach enhanced the findings from virological surveillance and epidemiological studies between 2013 and 2016, which examined more than 3,000 A(H3N2) viruses.
Ankyrin Repeat Proteins of Orf Virus Influence the Cellular Hypoxia Response Pathway
Authors: Chen Da-Yuan , Fabrizio Jacqueline-Alba , Wilkins Sarah E. , Dave Keyur A. , Gorman Jeffrey J. , Gleadle Jonathan M. , Fleming Stephen B. , Peet Daniel J. , Mercer Andrew A.
Published: October 2016

Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) is a transcriptional activator with a central role in regulating cellular responses to hypoxia. It is also emerging as a major target for viral manipulation of the cellular environment. Under normoxic conditions, HIF is tightly suppressed by the activity of oxygen-dependent prolyl and asparaginyl hydroxylases. The asparaginyl hydroxylase active against HIF, factor inhibiting HIF (FIH), has also been shown to hydroxylate some ankyrin repeat (ANK) proteins. Using bioinformatic analysis, we identified the five ANK proteins of the parapoxvirus orf virus (ORFV) as potential substrates of FIH. Consistent with this prediction, coimmunoprecipitation of FIH was detected with each of the ORFV ANK proteins, and for one representative ORFV ANK protein, the interaction was shown to be dependent on the ANK domain. Immunofluorescence studies revealed colocalization of FIH and the viral ANK proteins. In addition, mass spectrometry confirmed that three of the five ORFV ANK proteins are efficiently hydroxylated by FIH
in vitro
. While FIH levels were unaffected by ORFV infection, transient expression of each of the ORFV ANK proteins resulted in derepression of HIF-1α activity in reporter gene assays. Furthermore, ORFV-infected cells showed upregulated HIF target gene expression. Our data suggest that sequestration of FIH by ORFV ANK proteins leads to derepression of HIF activity. These findings reveal a previously unknown mechanism of viral activation of HIF that may extend to other members of the poxvirus family.

IMPORTANCE
The protein-protein binding motif formed from multiple repeats of the ankyrin motif is common among chordopoxviruses. However, information on the roles of these poxviral ankyrin repeat (ANK) proteins remains limited. Our data indicate that the parapoxvirus orf virus (ORFV) is able to upregulate hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) target gene expression. This response is mediated by the viral ANK proteins, which sequester the HIF regulator FIH (factor inhibiting HIF). This is the first demonstration of any viral protein interacting directly with FIH. Our data reveal a new mechanism by which viruses reprogram HIF, a master regulator of cellular metabolism, and also show a new role for the ANK family of poxvirus proteins.
Potential for Meta-Analysis in the Realm of Preharvest Food Safety
Authors: Sargeant Jan M. , O’Connor Annette M.
Published: October 2016

Meta-analysis, the statistical combination of results from multiple studies, can be used to summarize all of the available research on an intervention, etiology, descriptive, or diagnostic test accuracy question. Meta-analysis should be conducted as a component of a systematic review, to increase transparency in the selection of studies and to incorporate an evaluation of the risk of bias in the individual studies included in the meta-analysis. The process of meta-analysis may include a forest plot to graphically display the study results and the calculation of a weighted average summary effect size. Heterogeneity (differences in the effect size between studies) can be evaluated using formal statistics and the reasons for heterogeneity can be explored using sub-group analysis or meta-regression. Thus, meta-analysis may be a useful methodology for preharvest food safety research to aid in policy or clinical decision-making or to provide input to quantitative risk assessment or other models.
The Role of Host Genetics (and Genomics) in Tuberculosis
Authors: Naranbhai Vivek
Published: October 2016

Familial risk of tuberculosis (TB) has been recognized for centuries. Largely through studies of mono- and dizygotic twin concordance rates, studies of families with Mendelian susceptibility to mycobacterial disease, and candidate gene studies performed in the 20th century, it was recognized that susceptibility to TB disease has a substantial host genetic component. Limitations in candidate gene studies and early linkage studies made the robust identification of specific loci associated with disease challenging, and few loci have been convincingly associated across multiple populations. Genome-wide and transcriptome-wide association studies, based on microarray (commonly known as genechip) technologies, conducted in the past decade have helped shed some light on pathogenesis but only a handful of new pathways have been identified. This apparent paradox, of high heritability but few replicable associations, has spurred a new wave of collaborative global studies. This review aims to comprehensively review the heritability of TB, critically review the host genetic and transcriptomic correlates of disease, and highlight current studies and future prospects in the study of host genomics in TB. An implicit goal of elucidating host genetic correlates of susceptibility toMycobacterium tuberculosisinfection or TB disease is to identify pathophysiological features amenable to translation to new preventive, diagnostic, or therapeutic interventions. The translation of genomic insights into new clinical tools is therefore also discussed.
Infant born with Robert's syndrome without prenatal care in a developing nation
Authors: Benardete Denise , Chandrasekaran Neeraja , Cariello Lisa , Meraz Diego
Published: October 2016

Maternal and child well-being during pregnancy can be attributed to receiving optimal prenatal care. However, in developing nations, there are many barriers to receiving this. We present a primigravid female aged 29 years with severe abdominal pain. She was in active labour at 40 weeks and completely unaware of her pregnancy; hence, she did not receive any prenatal care. The baby was born with significant birth deformities that were consistent with Robert's syndrome. Although early detection could not preclude the development of this disorder, proper care would have facilitated in receiving genetic counselling and proper understanding of the prognosis. In this case, we discuss the various barriers to receiving prenatal care and measures taken for improvement in developing nations.
Stump appendicitis 5 years after laparoscopic appendicectomy
Authors: Maurice Andrew Phillip , Ibrahim Hany , Franz Robert , Iswariah Harish
Published: October 2016

A 31-year-old healthy man presented with right lower quadrant pain and tenderness, mild neutrophilia and clinical presentation consistent with appendicitis, despite undergoing a laparoscopic appendicectomy 5 years prior. CT scan demonstrated a caecal phlegmon, in the expected region of the appendiceal stump. The patient was taken for laparoscopy and a 2 cm inflamed appendiceal stump was encountered. A distal caecectomy was performed and the patient made an unremarkable recovery. Histological examination was consistent with acute inflammation of the appendiceal stump. Only a small number of case reports of stump appendicitis have been published so far. Correct identification and ligation of the appendiceal stump is crucial to prevent this complication. Although normally it is treated with completion appendicectomy, the optimal treatment approach for this condition has not been well established.
Using digital notifications to improve attendance in clinic: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Robotham Dan , Satkunanathan Safarina , Reynolds John , Stahl Daniel , Wykes Til
Published: October 2016

Objectives

Assess the impact of text-based electronic notifications on improving clinic attendance, in relation to study quality (according to risk of bias), and to assess simple ways in which notifications can be optimised (ie, impact of multiple notifications).

Design

Systematic review, study quality appraisal assessing risk of bias, data synthesised in meta-analyses.

Data sources

MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Web of Science and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (01.01.05 until 25.4.15). A systematic search to discover all studies containing quantitative data for synthesis into meta-analyses.

Eligibility criteria

Studies examining the effect of text-based electronic notifications on prescheduled appointment attendance in healthcare settings. Primary analysis included experimental studies where randomisation was used to define allocation to intervention and where a control group consisting of ‘no reminders’ was used. Secondary meta-analysis included studies comparing text reminders with voice reminders. Studies lacking sufficient information for inclusion (after attempting to contact study authors) were excluded.

Outcome measures

Primary outcomes were rate of attendance/non-attendance at healthcare appointments. Secondary outcome was rate of rescheduled and cancelled appointments.

Results

26 articles were included. 21 included in the primary meta-analysis (8345 patients receiving electronic text notifications, 7731 patients receiving no notifications). Studies were included from Europe (9), Asia (7), Africa (2), Australia (2) and America (1). Patients who received notifications were 23% more likely to attend clinic than those who received no notification (risk ratio=1.23, 67% vs 54%). Those receiving notifications were 25% less likely to ‘no show’ for appointments (risk ratio=.75, 15% vs 21%). Results were similar when accounting for risk of bias, region and publication year. Multiple notifications were significantly more effective at improving attendance than single notifications. Voice notifications appeared more effective than text notifications at improving attendance.

Conclusions

Electronic text notifications improve attendance and reduce no shows across healthcare settings. Sending multiple notifications could improve attendance further.
Applied investigation of person-specific and context-specific factors on postoperative recovery and clinical outcomes of patients undergoing gastrointestinal cancer surgery: multicentre European study
Authors: Markar Sheraz R , Mavroveli Stella , Petrides Konstantinos V , Scarpa Marco , Christophe Veronique , Castoro Carlo , Mariette Christophe , Lagergren Pernilla , Hanna George B
Published: October 2016

Introduction

Cancer treatments have greatly advanced over the past two decades causing survival improvements and reduced complications from cancer surgery. However, the cancer diagnosis and the effects of treatment modalities pose a major risk to patients' psychological well-being. Given current interest and emerging evidence about the importance of psychological and social factors on cancer survival and coping with cancer treatments, this study will build and expand research in order to identify key modifiable psychosocial variables that contribute to better physical and mental health following gastrointestinal cancer (GIC) surgery.

Objectives

To elucidate the incidence of postoperative psychiatric morbidity within 6 months following GIC surgery. To identify key measurable modifiable preoperative psychological factors that can significantly affect postoperative psychiatric morbidity in patients undergoing surgery for GIC. To clarify the changes seen in a patient's psychological well-being during their treatment pathway for GIC.

Methods and analysis

This multicentre study has an observational longitudinal study design. In total, 1000 patients will be screened with a multicomponent psychological questionnaire at four different time points: at diagnosis, preoperatively, 1 and 6 months after surgery. Data from this questionnaire will be linked to postoperative complications including psychiatric morbidity, length of hospital stay and recovery to normal activity.

Ethics and dissemination

NHS Health Research Authority approval was gained on (REC reference 15.LO/1847) for the completion of this study. Multiple platforms will be used for the dissemination of the research data, including international clinical and patient group presentations and publication of research outputs in a high impact clinical journal.
Possible role of IL-6 and TIE2 gene polymorphisms in predicting the initial high transport status in patients with peritoneal dialysis: an observational study
Authors: Ding Li , Shao Xinghua , Cao Liou , Fang Wei , Yan Hao , Huang Jiaying , Gu Aiping , Yu Zanzhe , Qi Chaojun , Chang Xinbei , Ni Zhaohui
Published: October 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of interleukin (IL)-6 and TIE2 gene polymorphisms on baseline peritoneal transport property.

Design

An observational study.

Setting

Renji Hospital in Shanghai, China.

Participants

This study included 220 patients with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (PD).

Outcome measures

Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the results of an initial peritoneal equilibration test performed within 3 months of starting PD therapy: group 1 consisted of low/low average transporters (n=123), and group 2 consisted of high/high average transporters (n=97). We genotyped TIE2 and IL-6 polymorphisms and analysed their effects on baseline transport status.

Results

The genotype AT in IL-6 Rs13306435 and the genotype CC in TIE2 Rs639225 were both negatively associated with a higher initial peritoneal transport status (IL-6 Rs13306435: OR=0.408, 95% CI 0.227 to 0.736; TIE2 Rs639225: OR=0.188, 95% CI 0.044 to 0.806).

Conclusions

IL-6 and TIE2 polymorphisms are associated with baseline peritoneal transport property.
Induction of humoural and cellular immunity by immunisation with HCV particle vaccine in a non-human primate model
Authors: Yokokawa Hiroshi , Higashino Atsunori , Suzuki Saori , Moriyama Masaki , Nakamura Noriko , Suzuki Tomohiko , Suzuki Ryosuke , Ishii Koji , Kobiyama Kouji , Ishii Ken J , Wakita Takaji , Akari Hirofumi , Kato Takanobu
Published: October 2016

Objective

Although HCV is a major cause of chronic liver disease worldwide, there is currently no prophylactic vaccine for this virus. Thus, the development of an HCV vaccine that can induce both humoural and cellular immunity is urgently needed. To create an effective HCV vaccine, we evaluated neutralising antibody induction and cellular immune responses following the immunisation of a non-human primate model with cell culture-generated HCV (HCVcc).

Design

To accomplish this, 10 common marmosets were immunised with purified, inactivated HCVcc in combination with two different adjuvants: the classically used aluminum hydroxide (Alum) and the recently established adjuvant: CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) wrapped by schizophyllan (K3-SPG).

Results

The coadministration of HCVcc with K3-SPG efficiently induced immune responses against HCV, as demonstrated by the production of antibodies with specific neutralising activity against chimaeric HCVcc with structural proteins from multiple HCV genotypes (1a, 1b, 2a and 3a). The induction of cellular immunity was also demonstrated by the production of interferon-γ mRNA in spleen cells following stimulation with the HCV core protein. These changes were not observed following immunisation with HCVcc/Alum preparation. No vaccination-related abnormalities were detected in any of the immunised animals.

Conclusions

The current preclinical study demonstrated that a vaccine included both HCVcc and K3-SPG induced humoural and cellular immunity in marmosets. Vaccination with this combination resulted in the production of antibodies exhibiting cross-neutralising activity against multiple HCV genotypes. Based on these findings, the vaccine created in this study represents a promising, potent and safe prophylactic option against HCV.
Hippo pathway deregulation: implications in the pathogenesis of haematological malignancies
Authors: Cacemiro Maira da Costa , Berzoti-Coelho Maria Gabriela , Cominal Juçara Gastaldi , Burin Sandra Mara , Castro Fabíola Attié de
Published: October 2016

The Hippo pathway participates in the regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. It is composed by a large array of proteins whose deregulation has been associated with pro-oncogenic and antioncogenic processes. The present review focuses on the Hippo pathway signalling network and discusses its dual role in oncogenesis, particularly in haematological malignancies.
Long-term survival after coronary bypass surgery and percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Mølstad Per , Moer Rasmus , Rødevand Olaf
Published: October 2016

Objectives

To assess whether there exists a long-term difference in survival after treatment with coronary bypass surgery or percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with coronary disease as judged by all-cause mortality.

Methods

Retrospective study from the Feiring Heart Clinic database of survival in 22 880 patients—15 078 treated with percutaneous coronary intervention and 7802 with bypass surgery followed up to 16 years.

Results

Cox regression and propensity score analysis showed no difference in survival for one-vessel and two-vessel disease during the whole study period. In three-vessel disease, however, the analysis revealed a consistent and highly significant survival benefit in the first 8 years with an HR of 0.76 (95% CI 0.69 to 0.84, p<0.001) in favour of bypass surgery with similar survival rates in the two treatment strategies after that time period.

Conclusions

Treatment strategy did not affect survival in one-vessel and two-vessel disease, but bypass surgery offered an improved survival in the first 8 years in patients with three-vessel disease. These results are consistent with most previous reports and the survival benefit should be taken into account when selecting a strategy for this patient group.
Effects of wind damage on the optimal management of boreal forests under current and changing climatic conditions
Authors: Zubizarreta-Gerendiain Ane , Pukkala Timo , Peltola Heli
Published: October 2016

This study presents a new method for considering the risk of wind damage in forest planning and for predicting the amount of damage and its effects on timber production, economic profitability and carbon balance of forestry. The effects of wind damage on the optimal management of boreal forests under current and changing climatic conditions were analyzed by comparing four forest management plans. A reference plan maximized net present value (NPV) with even-flow harvesting constraints. The second plan minimized height differences between adjacent stands, the third minimized height differences while simultaneously maximizing NPV, and the fourth maximized height differences between adjacent stands. To obtain damage-adjusted results, schedules that belonged to the optimal management plans were simulated with wind damage, taking into account the shelter provided by adjacent stands. Maximizing NPV and simultaneously minimizing height differences resulted in the highest damage-adjusted NPV. Increasing wind damage increased carbon balance of forest soil but decreased the total carbon balance of forestry as it decreased the carbon balances of living forest biomass and wood-based products. Climate change slightly improved the total carbon balance of forestry. If wind damage was ignored in calculations, NPV, total carbon balance of forestry, and timber production were overestimated.
Simulating phosphorus loss to subsurface tile drainage flow: a review
Authors: Qi Hongkai , Qi Zhiming
Published: October 2016

Agricultural land is a major source of phosphorus (P) loss, and artificial drainage is one of the pathways for phosphorus transport. In this paper, we reviewed the methods and equations related to phosphorus loss through subsurface tile drain in water quality models. This review is presented through three topics: subsurface hydrology, fate and transport of phosphorus in soil, and phosphorus transport into tile drains. Major simulation methods and some recent updates are reviewed, and calculations in specific models are presented. Nine existing water quality models (ADAPT, ANIMO, APEX, EPIC, HYDRUS, ICECREAM, MACRO, PLEASE, SWAP) can be used to simulate P transport to tile drainage, where three of them (HYDRUS, MACRO, SWAP) do not have a specific phosphorus module but P can be simulated using a general chemical module. Models that are not suitable for simulating fate and transport of P to tile drains under their current status, for example, AnnAGNPS, DRAINMOD, GLEAMS, RZWQM2, SurPhos, SWAT, are also reviewed due to their strength in one of the aspects: subsurface drainage or P dynamics. Based on the methods used in those models, ICECREAM could be the most current comprehensive model for P loss through tile drains from agricultural fields.
Proper SL(2, ℝ)-actions on homogeneous spaces
Authors: Bocheński Maciej , Jastrzębski Piotr , Okuda Takayuki , Tralle Aleksy
Published: October 2016

We study the existence problem of proper actions of [Formula: see text] on homogeneous spaces [Formula: see text] of reductive type. Based on Kobayashi’s properness criterion [T. Kobayashi, Proper action on a homogeneous space of reductive type, Math. Ann. 285 (1989) 249–263.], we show that [Formula: see text] admits a proper [Formula: see text]-action via [Formula: see text] if a maximally split abelian subspace of Lie [Formula: see text] is included in the wall defined by a restricted root of Lie [Formula: see text]. We also give a number of examples of such [Formula: see text].
IMI long-range surface plasmon Bragg micro-cavity
Authors: Tong Kai , Wang Jun , Zhou Chunliang , Wang Meiting
Published: October 2016

The defect layer is introduced to the insulator-metal-insulator (IMI) Bragg waveguide structure. The micro-cavity structure of long-range surface plasma is proposed based on the defect mode. The liquid crystal is the defect layer in the structure of Bragg. The energy band characteristics of the long-range surface plasmon Bragg micro-cavity structure are analyzed by using the finite difference time domain method. The influence of the period number and the length of the micro-cavity on the quality factor Q and the volume V of the Bragg grating are discussed. The results show that the photonic energy can be confined very well in the micro-cavity by the structure of the micro-cavity. By controlling the birefringence of liquid crystal, the resonance wavelength of the micro-cavity appears with redshift phenomenon. The tuning range is 42 nm. The tuning of the working window of the long-range surface plasmon filter is realized. The photonic energy is the strongest in the insulating layer and the metal interface. The increase of cycles number has certain limitation on the improvement of the quality factor Q of the cavity. The influence of the defect-cavity length on the resonant wavelength, the quality factor Q and the mode volume V is obvious. The performance of the micro-cavity can be improved by adjusting the number of the micro-cavity and the length of the defect-cavity, and the ratio of Q/V can reach 43,750 in the communication band. The nano micro-cavity provides a new design idea and basis for the fabrication of tunable long-range surface plasmon wave filter in this paper.
Decomposability of finitely generated torsion-free nilpotent groups
Authors: Baumslag Gilbert , Miller Charles F. , Ostheimer Gretchen
Published: October 2016

We describe an algorithm for deciding whether or not a given finitely generated torsion-free nilpotent group is decomposable as the direct product of nontrivial subgroups.
Acentric Scheduling Strategy for SLA-Based Multi-Tenant Queries
Authors: Zou Lida , Li Qingzhong , Li Wenhao , Kong Lanju
Published: October 2016

The response time for multi-tenant queries is one of the most important indicators in the service level agreements (SLA). The service provider tries to optimize query scheduling strategy to finish queries of different tenants before the deadline to avoid penalty due to jeopardizing the SLA. With continuous expansion of tenants scale, peer-to-peer (P2P) structure becomes more and more popular in organizing and managing multi-tenant data. In this paper we propose an acentric scheduling approach for SLA-based multi-tenant queries according to the distribution characteristics of multi-tenant data. Our scheduling approach deploys multiple scheduling engines on the computing nodes in the cloud, where the computing node of each engine schedules its assigned queries, estimates whether these queries could be finished before the deadline, and migrates the queries that might jeopardize the SLA to another engine which can respond to it before the deadline. Since the high efficiency of the scheduling process is critical, we improve the balanced binary tree and use it to organize queries on each computing node. Using this structure, the online time complexity of the scheduling strategy is [Formula: see text]. Our extensive experiments demonstrate that our scheduling strategy is sufficient to meet the high scheduling efficiency requirement, while the penalty cost can be reduced up to [Formula: see text] compared with the benchmarking solution and with a better scalability.
Penetration of Rigid Projectile into Concrete Target with Effect of Attack Angle: Theory and Experiment
Authors: Chen Wanxiang , Zhang Yanyan , Guo Zhikun , Zou Huihui
Published: October 2016

The existing prediction methods of penetration depth do not take the influence of attack angle or angular velocity of projectile (i.e. effect of attack angle) into account. The main purpose of this work is to develop an approximate approach to predict the penetration depth for a rigid projectile into concrete target covered with yaw-inducing overlays. A quasi-static, elastic–plastic contact model of projectile impacting on irregular barrier is built based on Hertz’s contact theory, and the expression of effect of attack angle are also presented. The stress on projectile–target interface is derived according to spherical cavity expansion model and mechanical property of target, where reduction coefficient is introduced to consider the effect of free surface, and the penetration resistances are further obtained. Differential equations of motion for projectile arbitrarily oblique into target covered with yaw-inducing overlays are given by employing the initial conditions of projectile striking on irregular barrier. Then a simplified formula of depth-of-penetration (DOP) with effect of attack angle is presented by introducing an influence coefficient of oblique impact and an influence coefficient of yaw-inducing overlays into the depth of normal penetration. Predictions from the simplified formula are validated by comparison with ballistic experimental data for a 57[Formula: see text]mm diameter, 4.44[Formula: see text]kg, and ogive-nose, semi-armor-piercing with striking velocities between 320 and 705[Formula: see text]m/s.
ISN’T IT NOW A CRUCIAL TIME FOR SAUDI ARABIAN FIRMS TO BE MORE INNOVATIVE AND COMPETITIVE?
Authors: ZAIN MOHAMED , KASSIM NORIZAN , KADASAH NASSER
Published: October 2016

We investigate the influence of innovations, creative organisational climate and culture on competitiveness and performance of firms. Data came from a survey of 135 Saudi Arabian executives. Findings indicate that incremental innovations directly influence the performance of Saudi Arabian firms. We found significant influence of firms’ working environment on their competitiveness, which in turn directly influences their performance. The overall results of this study point to the need of firms in Saudi Arabia to improve their innovativeness, competitiveness, and performance in the light of the recent drop in oil prices that has resulted in drastic reduction in the country’s revenues.
Combined surface electromyography, near-infrared spectroscopy and acceleration recordings of muscle contraction: The effect of motion
Authors: Kauppi Krista , Korhonen Vesa , Ferdinando Hany , Kallio Mika , Myllylä Teemu
Published: October 2016

Noninvasive techniques, surface electromyography (sEMG) in particular, are being increasingly employed for assessing muscle activity. In these studies, local oxygen consumption and muscle metabolism are of great interest. Measurements can be performed noninvasively using optics-based methods such as near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). By combining energy consumption data provided by NIRS with muscle level activation data from sEMG, we may gain an insight into the metabolic and functional characteristics of muscle tissue. However, muscle motion may induce artifacts into EMG and NIRS. Thus, the inclusion of simultaneous motion measurements using accelerometers (ACMs) enhances possibilities to perceive the effects of motion on NIRS and EMG signals.

This paper reviews the current state of noninvasive EMG and NIRS-based methods used to study muscle function. In addition, we built a combined sEMG/NIRS/ACM sensor to perform simultaneous measurements for static and dynamic exercises of a biceps brachii muscle. Further, we discuss the effect of muscle motion in response of NIRS and EMG when measured noninvasively. Based on our preliminary studies, both NIRS and EMG supply specific information on muscle activation, but their signal responses also showed similarities with acceleration signals which, in this case, were supposed to be solely sensitive to motions.
B-site substituted solid solutions on the base of sodium-bismuth titanate
Authors: Ishchuk V. M. , Gusakova L. G. , Kisel N. G. , Kuzenko D. V. , Spiridonov N. A. , Sobolev V. L.
Published: October 2016

The paper presents results of studies of the formation of phases during the solid-state synthesis in the [([Formula: see text] system of solid solutions with [Formula: see text]-site substitutions. The substitutions by zirconium, tin and ion complexes (In[Formula: see text]Nb[Formula: see text] and (Fe[Formula: see text]Nb[Formula: see text] have been studied. It has been found that the synthesis is a multi-step process associated with the formation of a number of intermediate phases (depending on the compositions and calcination temperatures). Single-phase solid solutions have been produced at the calcination temperatures in the interval 1000–1100[Formula: see text]C. An increase in the substituting ions concentration leads to a linear increase of the crystal cell size. At the same time, the tolerance factor gets reduced boosting the stability of the antiferroelectric phase as compared to that of the ferroelectric phase.
Towards a Transformative Role for Local Knowledge in Post-Disaster Recovery: Prospects for Co-Production in the Wake of Hurricane Sandy
Authors: Mitchell James K. , O’Neill Karen , McDermott Melanie , Leckner Mariana
Published: October 2016

This paper focuses on the reassessment of risk by storm victims in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. It directs attention to the gap that separates local knowledge about risks from professional expertise and to prospects for bridging these different perspectives in pursuit of more sustainable co-produced outcomes. Supporting evidence is drawn from focus group discussions that involved residents of three New Jersey communities in the months following Hurricane Sandy, while they were negotiating paths among instruments of regulatory guidance, most notably an evolving National Flood Insurance Program. Proposals are offered for improving recovery from future storm surge disasters by expanding the permanent constituency in support of responsible redevelopment. Findings suggest that there is fertile ground for employing co-produced risk assessments in the United States and other affluent nations as well as in developing societies.
A Systematic Literature Review of Adaptive Parameter Control Methods for Evolutionary Algorithms
Authors: Aleti Aldeida , Moser Irene
Published: October 2016

Evolutionary algorithms (EAs) are robust stochastic optimisers that perform well over a wide range of problems. Their robustness, however, may be affected by several adjustable parameters, such as mutation rate, crossover rate, and population size. Algorithm parameters are usually problem-specific, and often have to be tuned not only to the problem but even the problem instance at hand to achieve ideal performance. In addition, research has shown that different parameter values may be optimal at different stages of the optimisation process. To address these issues, researchers have shifted their focus to adaptive parameter control, in which parameter values are adjusted during the optimisation process based on the performance of the algorithm. These methods redefine parameter values repeatedly based on implicit or explicit rules that decide how to make the best use of feedback from the optimisation algorithm.

In this survey, we systematically investigate the state of the art in adaptive parameter control. The approaches are classified using a new conceptual model that subdivides the process of adapting parameter values into four steps that are present explicitly or implicitly in all existing approaches that tune parameters dynamically during the optimisation process. The analysis reveals the major focus areas of adaptive parameter control research as well as gaps and potential directions for further development in this area.
Electron Energy Studying of Molecular Structures via Forgotten Topological Index Computation
Authors: Gao Wei , Wang Weifan , Jamil Muhammad Kamran , Farahani Mohammad Reza
Published: October 2016

It is found from the earlier studies that the structure-dependency of totalπ-electron energyEπheavily relies on the sum of squares of the vertex degrees of the molecular graph. Hence, it provides a measure of the branching of the carbon-atom skeleton. In recent years, the sum of squares of the vertex degrees of the molecular graph has been defined as forgotten topological index which reflects the structure-dependency of totalπ-electron energyEπand measures the physical-chemical properties of molecular structures. In this paper, in order to research the structure-dependency of totalπ-electron energyEπ, we present the forgotten topological index of some important molecular structures from mathematical standpoint. The formulations we obtained here use the approach of edge set dividing, and the conclusions can be applied in physics, chemical, material, and pharmaceutical engineering.
Plasmachemical Synthesis of Nanopowders in the System Ti(O,C,N) for Material Structure Modification
Authors: Filkov Michael , Kolesnikov Andrei
Published: October 2016

Refractory nanoparticles are finding broad application in manufacturing of materials with enhanced physical properties. Production of carbide, nitride, and carbonitride nanopowders in high volumes is possible in the multijet plasmachemical reactor, where temperature and velocity distributions in reaction zone can be controlled by plasma jet collision angle and mixing chamber geometry. A chemical reactor with three Direct Current (DC) arc plasma jets intersecting at one point was applied for titanium carbonitride synthesis from titanium dioxide, propane-butane mixture, and nitrogen. The influence of process operational parameters on the product chemical and phase composition was investigated. Mixing conditions in the plasma jet collision zone, particles residence time, and temperatures were evaluated with the help of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. The synthesized nanoparticles have predominantly cubic shape and dimensions in the range 10–200 nm. Phase compositions were represented by oxycarbonitride phases. The amount of free (not chemically bonded) carbon in the product varied in the range 3–12% mass, depending on synthesis conditions.
Surgical Strategy for the Chronic Achilles Tendon Rupture
Authors: Lin Yangjing , Yang Liu , Yin Li , Duan Xiaojun
Published: October 2016

Background. Chronic Achilles tendon rupture is usually misdiagnosed and treated improperly. This study aims to better understand the treatment of chronic Achilles tendon rupture.Methods. Patients who were not able to perform a single-limb heel rise were chosen. Pre- and postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were conducted. By evaluating the presence or absence of Achilles tendon stumps and the gap length of rupture, V-Y advancement, gastrocnemius fascial turndown flap, or flexor halluces longus tendon transfer were selected for tendon repair. The function of ankle and foot was assessed by American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scores and Achilles Tendon Total Rupture Score (ATRS).Results. Twenty-nine patients were followed up. One patient had superficial incision infection, which was healed after debridement and oral antibiotics. Three months postoperatively, MRI showed some signs of inflammation, which disappeared at one or two years postoperatively. All patients were able to perform a single-limb heel rise. Mean AOFAS scores and ATRS scores were increased at the latest follow-up.Conclusion. Surgical options can be determined by evaluating the presence of the Achilles tendon stumps and the gap length, which can avoid using the nearby tendon and yield satisfactory functional results.
Hemorrhagic Longitudinally Extensive Transverse Myelitis
Authors: Wu Chris Y. , Riangwiwat Tanawan , Nakamoto Beau K.
Published: October 2016

Longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) may be associated with viral triggers, including both infections and vaccinations. We present a case of a healthy immunocompetent 33-year-old woman who developed a hemorrhagic LETM 2 weeks after seasonal influenza vaccination. Hemorrhagic LETM has not to our knowledge been reported after influenza vaccination. It may represent a forme fruste variant of acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis.
Comorbidity in Adult Patients Hospitalized with Type 2 Diabetes in Northeast China: An Analysis of Hospital Discharge Data from 2002 to 2013
Authors: Chen Hui , Zhang Yaoyun , Wu Di , Gong Chunxiu , Pan Qing , Dong Xiao , Wu Yonghui , Zhang Kuan , Wang Shiping , Lei Jianbo , Xu Hua
Published: October 2016

This study aims to evaluate the comorbidity burden and patterns among adult patients hospitalized with a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Northeast China using hospital discharge data derived from the electronic medical record database between 2002 and 2013. 12.8% of 4,400,892 inpatients aged ≥18 had a diagnosis of T2DM. Sex differences in prevalence varied among those aged <50, 50–59, and ≥60. Twenty-seven diseases were determined as major comorbidities of T2DM. Essential hypertension was the most common comorbidity of T2DM (absolute cooccurrence risk, 58.4%), while T2DM was also the most popular comorbidity of essential hypertension. Peripheral and visceral atherosclerosis showed the strongest association (relative cooccurrence risk, RCoR 4.206). For five leading comorbidities among patients aged ≥40, male patients had a stronger association with disorders of lipid metabolism than female patients (RCoR 2.779 versus 2.099), and female patients had a stronger association with chronic renal failure than male patients (RCoR 2.461 versus 2.155). Leading comorbidities, except chronic renal failure, had declining associations with T2DM with increased age. Collectively, hospital discharge data can be used to estimate disease prevalence and identify comorbidities. The findings provided comprehensive information on comorbidity patterns, helping policy makers and programs in public health domains to estimate and evaluate the epidemic of chronic diseases.
Method of Quantifying Size of Retinal Hemorrhages in Eyes with Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion Using 14-Square Grid: Interrater and Intrarater Reliability
Authors: Takashima Yuko , Sugimoto Masahiko , Kato Kumiko , Kozawa Maki , Ikesugi Kengo , Matsubara Hisashi , Kondo Mineo
Published: October 2016

Purpose. To describe a method of quantifying the size of the retinal hemorrhages in branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) and to determine the interrater and intrarater reliabilities of these measurements.Methods. Thirty-five fundus photographs from 35 consecutive eyes with BRVO were studied. The fundus images were analyzed with Power-Point® software, and a grid of 14 squares was laid over the fundus image. Raters were asked to judge the percentage of each of the 14 squares that was covered by the hemorrhages, and the average of the 14 squares was taken to be the relative size of the retinal hemorrhage.Results. Interrater reliability between three raters was higher when a grid with 14 squares was used (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), 0.96) than that when a box with no grid was used (ICC, 0.78). Intrarater reliability, which was calculated by the retinal hemorrhage area measured on two different days, was also higher (ICC, 0.97) than that with no grid (ICC, 0.86). Interrater reliability for five fundus pictures with poor image quality was also good when a grid with 14 squares was used (ICC, 0.88).Conclusions. Although our method is subjective, excellent interrater and intrarater reliabilities indicate that this method can be adapted for clinical use.
Quasi-Hyperbolicity and Delay Semigroups
Authors: Rastogi Shard , Srivastava Sachi
Published: October 2016

We study quasi-hyperbolicity of the delay semigroup associated with the equation u′(t)=Bu(t)+Φut, where ut is the history function and (B,D(B)) is the generator of a quasi-hyperbolic semigroup. We give conditions under which the associated solution semigroup of this equation generates a quasi-hyperbolic semigroup.