bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generation of targeted mutant rice using a CRISPR‐Cpf1 system
Authors: Xu Rongfang , Qin Ruiying , Li Hao , Li Dongdong , Li Li , Wei Pengcheng , Yang Jianbo
Published: November 2016

CRISPR‐Cpf1 is a newly identified CRISPR‐Cas system, and Cpf1 was recently engineered as a molecular tool for targeted genome editing in mammalian cells. To test whether the engineered CRISPR‐Cpf1 system could induce the production of rice mutants, we selected two genome targets in the OsPDS and OsBEL genes. Our results show that both targets could be efficiently mutated in transgenic rice plants using CRISPR‐Cpf1. We found that pre‐crRNAs with a full‐length direct repeat sequence exhibited considerably increased efficiencies compared with mature crRNAs. In addition, the specificity and transmission of the mutation were investigated, and the behaviours of crRNA‐Cpf1‐induced plant targeted genome mutagenesis were assessed. Taken together, our results indicate that CRISPR‐Cpf1 expression via stable transformation can efficiently generate specific and heritable targeted mutations in rice and thereby constitutes a novel and important approach to specific and precise plant genome editing.
Questioning the Clinical Utility of Exome Sequencing in Developing Countries
Authors: Fong Kenneth , Bailey Celeste V. , Tuttle Peggy , Cunningham Bari , McGrath John A. , Cho Raymond J.
Published: November 2016

The availability of whole‐exome sequencing has revolutionized the study of genetic disease in recent years, particularly in dermatology, where clinical phenotypes are readily recognized. As this technology becomes increasingly affordable and accessible, questions are emerging regarding the clinical and ethical responsibilities of physicians who determine variants underlying disease, especially with regard to children, for whom treatment may be warranted and clinical course improved based on a known genotype. These responsibilities are accentuated in the developing countries, which harbor most consanguineous populations and thus bear the brunt of monogenic genodermatoses. Although many genetic disorders are identified in these populations, limited educational and clinical infrastructure rarely offers opportunities to improve the course of disease. Here we report a genetic study that illustrates these challenges.
Analysis of multiple primary cancer autopsy cases associated with breast cancer: 2002–2010
Authors: Shibahara Yukiko , Sugawara Yumi , Miki Yasuhiro , Hata Shuko , Takahashi Hiroaki , Nakamura Yasuhiro , Suzuki Takashi , Ohuchi Noriaki , Tsuji Ichiro , Sasano Hironobu
Published: November 2016

Breast cancer patients have a generally increased risk of developing second cancers. The object of this study was to clarify the increased as well as decreased incidence of cancers in breast cancer patients using autopsy cases. 164 211 autopsy cases in the Annual of Pathological Autopsy Cases in Japan from 2002 to 2010 were analyzed for multiple primary cancer (MPC). Female MPC cases (4222 cases) were selected. We investigated the cancer incidence observed in breast cancer associated MPC. The Chi‐squared test was used for analysis. All P‐values were two‐sided, and differences at P < 0.05 were considered significant. Breast cancer associated MPC showed a significantly increased incidence of ovarian, pancreatic, and skin cancer (Odds Ratio [95 % confidence interval (CI)]) = 1.464 [1.03, 2.08], 1.414 [1.08, 1.85] and 2.092 [1.28, 3.41]), and a decreased incidence of colorectal and cervical cancer (OR [95 % CI]) = 0.732 [0.60, 0.90], 0.605 [0.38, 0.96]). Our findings of an increased incidence of malignancies in breast cancer associated MPC cases were consistent with the results of previous population‐based studies. This study is the first study to analyze massive autopsy data on MPC which provide new evidence clinically and pathologically.
The Endless Appeal to Rethink Public Administration
Authors: Robbins Donijo
Published: November 2016

Related Content: Balfour and Newbold (PAR January/February 2017)

Related Content: Roberts (PAR January/February 2017)

Related Content: Eckerd (PAR January/February 2017)

Related Content: Vidal‐Aparicio (PAR January/February 2017)

Related Content: Gerrits and Verweij (PAR January/February 2017)
Red blood cell alloimmunization in patients with sickle cell disease: correlation with HLA and cytokine gene polymorphisms
Authors: Sippert Emilia Ângela , Visentainer Jeane Eliete Laguila , Alves Hugo Vicentin , Rodrigues Camila , Gilli Simone Cristina Olenscki , Addas‐Carvalho Marcelo , Saad Sara Teresinha Ollala , Costa Fernando Ferreira , Castilho Lilian
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND

The reason for the difference in susceptibility to red blood cell (RBC) alloimmunization among patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) is not clearly understood and is probably the result of multiple factors. Our hypothesis is that genetic polymorphisms are associated with RBC alloimmunization.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We investigated the possible association of susceptibility to RBC alloimmunization with polymorphisms of HLA and cytokines genes in 161 SCD patients prior exposed to RBC transfusion. Cytokine gene polymorphisms were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and TaqMan assays. HLA Class I genotyping was performed using PCR‐specific sequence of oligonucleotides. Polymorphism frequencies were compared using the Fisher's exact test.

RESULTS

Our results revealed increased percentage of the A allele and the GA genotype of the TNFA −308G/A cytokine among alloimmunized patients when compared to nonalloimmunized patients (A allele, 16.4% vs. 6.8%, p = 0.004; GA genotype, 32.8% vs. 11.7%, p = 0.0021). In addition, the IL1B −511T allele and the IL1B −511TT and CT genotype frequencies were overrepresented among alloimmunized patients (T allele, 53.0% vs. 37.5%, p = 0.0085; CT + TT genotypes, 81.82% vs. 60.87%, p = 0.0071). In relation to HLA Class I, we found a higher frequency of HLA‐DRB1*15 among patients alloimmunized to Rh antigens when compared to nonalloimmunized patients (15.63% vs. 6.98%, p = 0.044).

CONCLUSION

Brazilian SCD patients with the TNFA, IL1B, and HLA‐DRB1 gene polymorphisms were at increased risk of becoming alloimmunized by RBC transfusions. These findings may contribute to the development of future therapeutic strategies for patients with SCD with higher susceptibility of alloimmunization.
2D/3D image charge for modeling field emission
Authors: Jensen Kevin L. , Shiffler Donald A. , Harris John R. , Rittersdorf Ian M. , Petillo John J.
Published: November 2016

Analytic image charge approximations exist for planar and spherical metal surfaces but approximations for more complex geometries, such as the conical and wirelike structures characteristic of field emitters, are lacking. Such models are the basis for the evaluation of Schottky lowering factors in equations for current density. The development of a multidimensional image charge approximation, useful for a general thermal-field emission equation used in space charge studies, is given and based on an analytical model using a prolate spheroidal geometry. A description of how the model may be adapted to be used with a line charge model appropriate for carbon nanotube and carbon fiber field emitters is discussed.
Integrating network reconstruction with mechanistic modeling to predict cancer therapies
Authors: Halasz Melinda , Kholodenko Boris N. , Kolch Walter , Santra Tapesh
Published: November 2016

Unexpected drug combinations for cancer treatment emerge from modeling signaling pathways affected by genomic mutations.
In Vitro
Susceptibility Testing of Bedaquiline against Mycobacterium avium Complex
Authors: Brown-Elliott Barbara A. , Philley Julie V. , Griffith David E. , Thakkar Foram , Wallace Richard J.
Published: November 2016

We performed bedaquiline broth microdilution susceptibility testing using Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines on 103 respiratory isolates of
Mycobacterium avium
complex (MAC), including multidrug-resistant isolates. Approximately 90% of isolates had bedaquiline MICs of ≤0.008 μg/ml, and 102/103 isolates had MICs of ≤0.015 μg/ml. Bedaquiline has excellent potential for use in patients with MAC infections, although for reasons of its metabolism by the cytochrome P450 system, it should not be given with rifampin.
Glycoside Hydrolases Degrade Polymicrobial Bacterial Biofilms in Wounds
Authors: Fleming Derek , Chahin Laura , Rumbaugh Kendra
Published: November 2016

The persistent nature of chronic wounds leaves them highly susceptible to invasion by a variety of pathogens that have the ability to construct an extracellular polymeric substance (EPS). This EPS makes the bacterial population, or biofilm, up to 1,000-fold more antibiotic tolerant than planktonic cells and makes wound healing extremely difficult. Thus, compounds which have the ability to degrade biofilms, but not host tissue components, are highly sought after for clinical applications. In this study, we examined the efficacy of two glycoside hydrolases, α-amylase and cellulase, which break down complex polysaccharides, to effectively disrupt
Staphylococcus aureus
and
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
monoculture and coculture biofilms. We hypothesized that glycoside hydrolase therapy would significantly reduce EPS biomass and convert bacteria to their planktonic state, leaving them more susceptible to conventional antimicrobials. Treatment of
S. aureus
and
P. aeruginosa
biofilms, grown
in vitro
and
in vivo
, with solutions of α-amylase and cellulase resulted in significant reductions in biomass, dissolution of the biofilm, and an increase in the effectiveness of subsequent antibiotic treatments. These data suggest that glycoside hydrolase therapy represents a potential safe, effective, and new avenue of treatment for biofilm-related infections.
Phagosomal Neutralization by the Fungal Pathogen Candida albicans Induces Macrophage Pyroptosis
Authors: Vylkova Slavena , Lorenz Michael C.
Published: November 2016

The interaction of
Candida albicans
with the innate immune system is the key determinant of the pathogen/commensal balance and has selected for adaptations that facilitate the utilization of nutrients commonly found within the host, including proteins and amino acids; many of the catabolic pathways needed to assimilate these compounds are required for persistence in the host. We have shown that
C. albicans
co-opts amino acid catabolism to generate and excrete ammonia, which raises the extracellular pH, both
in vitro
and
in vivo
and induces hyphal morphogenesis. Mutants defective in the uptake or utilization of amino acids, such as those lacking
STP2
, a transcription factor that regulates the expression of amino acid permeases, are impaired in multiple aspects of fungus-macrophage interactions resulting from an inability to neutralize the phagosome. Here we identified a novel role in amino acid utilization for Ahr1p, a transcription factor previously implicated in regulation of adherence and hyphal morphogenesis. Mutants lacking
AHR1
were defective in growth, alkalinization, and ammonia release on amino acid-rich media, similar to
stp2
Δ and
ahr1
Δ
stp2
Δ cells, and occupied more acidic phagosomes. Notably,
ahr1
Δ and
stp2
Δ strains did not induce pyroptosis, as measured by caspase-1-dependent interleukin-1β release, though this phenotype could be suppressed by pharmacological neutralization of the phagosome. Altogether, we show that
C. albicans
-driven neutralization of the phagosome promotes hyphal morphogenesis, sufficient for induction of caspase-1-mediated macrophage lysis.
Aortic valve fibroelastoma: a rare cause of stroke
Authors: Kumar Vivek , Soni Parita , Hashmi Arsalan , Moskovits Manfred
Published: November 2016

The prevalence of primary cardiac tumours varies from 0.02% to 0.45%. Cardiac papillary fibroelastoma (CPF) is a rare tumour diagnosed incidentally on imaging. The clinical manifestations result from thromboembolisation and include transient ischaemic attack, stroke and sudden cardiac death. We present a patient aged 57 years with CPF arising from the aortic valve. The patient presented with right hemiparesis due to acute stroke. He received tissue plasminogen activator with complete resolution of neurological symptoms. Echocardiography revealed a broad-based, gelatinous, non-mobile mass on the left aortic cusp. The tumour was excised sparing the aortic valve. The patient recovered rapidly without any complications. The histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of CPF. A review of the literature suggests that CPF is a rare but treatable cause of stroke. The course is not clear and there are no tumours or patient-related characteristics which could predict the risk of thromboembolisation. Surgical treatment is definite and is relatively safe.
Partial segmental thrombosis of the corpus cavernosum presenting with perineal pain
Authors: Christodoulidou Michelle , Parnham Arie , Ramachandran Navin , Muneer Asif
Published: November 2016

We describe the case of a man aged 43 years who presented with a 2-week history of a palpable lump in the right proximal penile shaft. This was preceded by a 6-month history of perineal pain, accompanied by erectile dysfunction. An urgent MRI scan of his penis identified a thrombus within the right crus and corpus of the penis. His thrombophilia screen was normal. The patient was started on oral anticoagulation and a phosphodiesterase inhibitor (PDE-5i) to prevent thrombus progression and maintain erectile function. At 5 months, the patients' symptoms had resolved and an MRI showed a reduction in the thrombus size. MRI is a useful imaging modality to diagnose a thrombus within the corpus cavernosum in patients presenting with a history of penile and perineal pain together with a palpable lump. The non-enhancement of the lesion helps to differentiate this from alternative rare lesions within the penis and perineum.
Large-scale implementation of disease control programmes: a cost-effectiveness analysis of long-lasting insecticide-treated bed net distribution channels in a malaria-endemic area of western Kenya—a study protocol
Authors: Gama Elvis , Were Vincent , Ouma Peter , Desai Meghna , Niessen Louis , Buff Ann M , Kariuki Simon
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Historically, Kenya has used various distribution models for long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets (LLINs) with variable results in population coverage. The models presently vary widely in scale, target population and strategy. There is limited information to determine the best combination of distribution models, which will lead to sustained high coverage and are operationally efficient and cost-effective. Standardised cost information is needed in combination with programme effectiveness estimates to judge the efficiency of LLIN distribution models and options for improvement in implementing malaria control programmes. The study aims to address the information gap, estimating distribution cost and the effectiveness of different LLIN distribution models, and comparing them in an economic evaluation.

Methods and analysis

Evaluation of cost and coverage will be determined for 5 different distribution models in Busia County, an area of perennial malaria transmission in western Kenya. Cost data will be collected retrospectively from health facilities, the Ministry of Health, donors and distributors. Programme-effectiveness data, defined as the number of people with access to an LLIN per 1000 population, will be collected through triangulation of data from a nationally representative, cross-sectional malaria survey, a cross-sectional survey administered to a subsample of beneficiaries in Busia County and LLIN distributors’ records. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis will be used for the evaluation. A cost-effectiveness analysis will be performed from a health-systems perspective, and cost-effectiveness ratios will be calculated using bootstrapping techniques.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been evaluated and approved by Kenya Medical Research Institute, Scientific and Ethical Review Unit (SERU number 2997). All participants will provide written informed consent. The findings of this economic evaluation will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications.
Functional variants in the sucrase–isomaltase gene associate with increased risk of irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Henström Maria , Diekmann Lena , Bonfiglio Ferdinando , Hadizadeh Fatemeh , Kuech Eva-Maria , von Köckritz-Blickwede Maren , Thingholm Louise B , Zheng Tenghao , Assadi Ghazaleh , Dierks Claudia , Heine Martin , Philipp Ute , Distl Ottmar , Money Mary E , Belheouane Meriem , Heinsen Femke-Anouska , Rafter Joseph , Nardone Gerardo , Cuomo Rosario , Usai-Satta Paolo , Galeazzi Francesca , Neri Matteo , Walter Susanna , Simrén Magnus , Karling Pontus , Ohlsson Bodil , Schmidt Peter T , Lindberg Greger , Dlugosz Aldona , Agreus Lars , Andreasson Anna , Mayer Emeran , Baines John F , Engstrand Lars , Portincasa Piero , Bellini Massimo , Stanghellini Vincenzo , Barbara Giovanni , Chang Lin , Camilleri Michael , Franke Andre , Naim Hassan Y , D'Amato Mauro
Published: November 2016

Objective

IBS is a common gut disorder of uncertain pathogenesis. Among other factors, genetics and certain foods are proposed to contribute. Congenital sucrase–isomaltase deficiency (CSID) is a rare genetic form of disaccharide malabsorption characterised by diarrhoea, abdominal pain and bloating, which are features common to IBS. We tested sucrase–isomaltase (SI) gene variants for their potential relevance in IBS.

Design

We sequenced SI exons in seven familial cases, and screened four CSID mutations (p.Val557Gly, p.Gly1073Asp, p.Arg1124Ter and p.Phe1745Cys) and a common SI coding polymorphism (p.Val15Phe) in a multicentre cohort of 1887 cases and controls. We studied the effect of the 15Val to 15Phe substitution on SI function in vitro. We analysed p.Val15Phe genotype in relation to IBS status, stool frequency and faecal microbiota composition in 250 individuals from the general population.

Results

CSID mutations were more common in patients than asymptomatic controls (p=0.074; OR=1.84) and Exome Aggregation Consortium reference sequenced individuals (p=0.020; OR=1.57). 15Phe was detected in 6/7 sequenced familial cases, and increased IBS risk in case–control and population-based cohorts, with best evidence for diarrhoea phenotypes (combined p=0.00012; OR=1.36). In the population-based sample, 15Phe allele dosage correlated with stool frequency (p=0.026) and Parabacteroides faecal microbiota abundance (p=0.0024). The SI protein with 15Phe exhibited 35% reduced enzymatic activity in vitro compared with 15Val (p<0.05).

Conclusions

SI gene variants coding for disaccharidases with defective or reduced enzymatic activity predispose to IBS. This may help the identification of individuals at risk, and contribute to personalising treatment options in a subset of patients.
Combining statistics from two national complex surveys to estimate injury rates per hour exposed and variance by activity in the USA
Authors: Lin Tin-chi , Marucci-Wellman Helen R , Willetts Joanna L , Brennan Melanye J , Verma Santosh K
Published: November 2016

Background

A common issue in descriptive injury epidemiology is that in order to calculate injury rates that account for the time spent in an activity, both injury cases and exposure time of specific activities need to be collected. In reality, few national surveys have this capacity. To address this issue, we combined statistics from two different national complex surveys as inputs for the numerator and denominator to estimate injury rate, accounting for the time spent in specific activities and included a procedure to estimate variance using the combined surveys.

Methods

The 2010 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) was used to quantify injuries, and the 2010 American Time Use Survey (ATUS) was used to quantify time of exposure to specific activities. The injury rate was estimated by dividing the average number of injuries (from NHIS) by average exposure hours (from ATUS), both measured for specific activities. The variance was calculated using the ‘delta method’, a general method for variance estimation with complex surveys.

Results

Among the five types of injuries examined, ‘sport and exercise’ had the highest rate (12.64 injuries per 100 000 h), followed by ‘working around house/yard’ (6.14), driving/riding a motor vehicle (2.98), working (1.45) and sleeping/resting/eating/drinking (0.23). The results show a ranking of injury rate by activity quite different from estimates using population as the denominator.

Conclusions

Our approach produces an estimate of injury risk which includes activity exposure time and may more reliably reflect the underlying injury risks, offering an alternative method for injury surveillance and research.
Aspects of disaster research ethics applicable to other contexts
Authors: Haire Bridget
Published: November 2016

In his article ‘The Ebola Clinical Trials: a precedent for research ethics in disasters’, Philippe Calain constructs a compelling case as to why and how experiences from the recent Ebola epidemic should be used to develop a framework for disaster research ethics. In particular, Calain proposes a useful model for assessing whether or not an unproven intervention could be suitable for human use in a disaster context, and makes a powerful argument against the separation of patient care from research goals. In this commentary, I argue that the separation of patient care goals from research goals is also unhelpful in the context of other forms of participant disadvantage even when that disadvantage is less severe than an ongoing public health emergency. I contend that recognising that research in disadvantaged populations is an intervention that could and should aim to produce positive outcomes for participants, just as it should in disaster contexts, therefore seems a well-justified lesson that can be extrapolated from the experience of the Ebola epidemic.
Medical morbidity and mortality conferences: past, present and future
Authors: George J
Published: November 2016

Morbidity and mortality conferences (MMCs) have three potential aims—to improve patient safety by reducing adverse events and preventable deaths, to improve overall quality of care as part of the hospital governance structure and as educational learning events. At present, medical MMCs vary widely in format and attendance from hospital to hospital. The evidence for MMCs actually reducing adverse events and preventing avoidable deaths is disappointing. There is better evidence for their educational role. The majority of medical deaths in hospitals are frail older people with poor life expectancy in whom inadequate care is more likely to be due to errors of omission rather than commission. Medical MMCs should be multidisciplinary and led by a senior clinician to encourage discussion and reflection in a ‘blame-free’ environment. They should be learning events for both clinicians and the organisation as a whole with a structure to support this.
Assessment of wind speeds based on damage observations from the Angus (Ontario) Tornado of 17 June 2014
Authors: Kopp Gregory A. , Hong Emilio , Gavanski Eri , Stedman Derek , Sills David M.L.
Published: November 2016

A tornado occurred in Angus, Ontario, during the late afternoon hours of 17 June 2014. The authors conducted a damage investigation on the morning following the storm. The damage indicators support the classification of the tornado as an EF-2 on the Enhanced Fujita Scale, including the observation of several complete roof failures of recently-constructed, wood-frame houses. Most of the damage to residential homes was contained along two streets, with the tornado appearing to have gone down the backyards between the two. In total, 101 houses were observed to have sustained some level of damage. The evidence suggests that the quality of construction likely affected the performance of failed roofs. A detailed fragility analysis was conducted to assess wind speeds associated with these failures of the roof-to-wall connections. An overturned and lofted box truck provided the opportunity to correlate this failure with adjacent, repetitive failures of roof sheathing, shingles, and garage doors.
A merged quadrupole-calorimeter for CEPC
Authors: Talman Richard , Hauptman John
Published: November 2016

The luminosity [Formula: see text] of colliding beams in a storage ring such as CEPC depends strongly on [Formula: see text], the half-length of the free space centered on the intersection point (IP). [Formula: see text] is also the length from the IP to the front edges of the two near-in quadrupoles that are focusing the counter-circulating beams to the IP spot. The detector length cannot, therefore, exceed [Formula: see text]. Since [Formula: see text] increases strongly with decreasing [Formula: see text], there is incentive for reducing [Formula: see text]; but this requires the detector to be shorter than desirable. This paper proposes a method for integrating these adjacent quadrupoles into the particle detector to retain (admittedly degraded) active particle detection of those forward going particles that would otherwise be obscured by the quadrupole. A gently conical quadrupole shape is more natural for merging the quadrupole into the particle detector than is the analytically exact cylindrical shape. This is true whether or not the calorimeter is integrated. It will be the task of accelerator physicists to determine the extent to which deviation from the pure quadrupole field compromises (or improves) accelerator performance. Superficially, both the presence of strongest gradient close to the IP and largest aperture farther from the IP seem to be advantageous. A tentative design for this merged, quadrupole-calorimeter is given.
Comparative Study Between Two Novel BJT-DVCC and CMOS-DVCC
Authors: Fathabadi Hassan
Published: November 2016

In this paper, a comparative study between performance of BJT and CMOS technologies is performed by implementing two novel BJT and CMOS differential voltage current conveyors (DVCCs) with minimum and equivalent sizes. In this study, “size” means the number of the transistors used in a design. The CMOS-DVCC consists of only 12 MOS transistors, and the BJT-DVCC includes 13 BJTs. The implementations are performed in Proteus-7 environment, and the two DVCCs are formulized with their real parameters. The two chips are modeled at low frequency, and it is shown that the CMOS-DVCC has acceptable performance and behavior to operate as a DVCC while the parameters of the BJT-DVCC are far from an ideal DVCC, so the CMOS-DVCC can be used to design electronic devices. The comparative analysis shows to achieve a reliable and acceptable BJT implementation of a DVCC, it is inevitable to increase the size of the BJT implementation. To prove this claim, another novel acceptable BJT-DVCC with larger size is presented and modeled. It is also demonstrated that the acceptable BJT-DVCC is also the first and only DVCC reported in the literature which is applicable to high-power applications, and this is the other contribution of this work.
Training a Network of Electronic Neurons for Control of a Mobile Robot
Authors: Vromen T. G. M. , Steur E. , Nijmeijer H.
Published: November 2016

An adaptive training procedure is developed for a network of electronic neurons, which controls a mobile robot driving around in an unknown environment while avoiding obstacles. The neuronal network controls the angular velocity of the wheels of the robot based on the sensor readings. The nodes in the neuronal network controller are clusters of neurons rather than single neurons. The adaptive training procedure ensures that the input–output behavior of the clusters is identical, even though the constituting neurons are nonidentical and have, in isolation, nonidentical responses to the same input. In particular, we let the neurons interact via a diffusive coupling, and the proposed training procedure modifies the diffusion interaction weights such that the neurons behave synchronously with a predefined response. The working principle of the training procedure is experimentally validated and results of an experiment with a mobile robot that is completely autonomously driving in an unknown environment with obstacles are presented.
Identification of Dynamic Patterns of Speech-Evoked Auditory Brainstem Response Based on Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition and Nonlinear Time Series Analysis Methods
Authors: Mozaffarilegha Marjan , Esteki Ali , Ahadi Mohsen , Nazeri Ahmadreza
Published: November 2016

The speech-evoked auditory brainstem response (sABR) shows how complex sounds such as speech and music are processed in the auditory system. Speech-ABR could be used to evaluate particular impairments and improvements in auditory processing system. Many researchers used linear approaches for characterizing different components of sABR signal, whereas nonlinear techniques are not applied so commonly. The primary aim of the present study is to examine the underlying dynamics of normal sABR signals. The secondary goal is to evaluate whether some chaotic features exist in this signal. We have presented a methodology for determining various components of sABR signals, by performing Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition (EEMD) to get the intrinsic mode functions (IMFs). Then, composite multiscale entropy (CMSE), the largest Lyapunov exponent (LLE) and deterministic nonlinear prediction are computed for each extracted IMF. EEMD decomposes sABR signal into five modes and a residue. The CMSE results of sABR signals obtained from 40 healthy people showed that 1st, and 2nd IMFs were similar to the white noise, IMF-3 with synthetic chaotic time series and 4th, and 5th IMFs with sine waveform. LLE analysis showed positive values for 3rd IMFs. Moreover, 1st, and 2nd IMFs showed overlaps with surrogate data and 3rd, 4th and 5th IMFs showed no overlap with corresponding surrogate data. Results showed the presence of noisy, chaotic and deterministic components in the signal which respectively corresponded to 1st, and 2nd IMFs, IMF-3, and 4th and 5th IMFs. While these findings provide supportive evidence of the chaos conjecture for the 3rd IMF, they do not confirm any such claims. However, they provide a first step towards an understanding of nonlinear behavior of auditory system dynamics in brainstem level.
Bifurcations in a Seasonally Forced Predator–Prey Model with Generalized Holling Type IV Functional Response
Authors: Ren Jingli , Li Xueping
Published: November 2016

A seasonally forced predator–prey system with generalized Holling type IV functional response is considered in this paper. The influence of seasonal forcing on the system is investigated via numerical bifurcation analysis. Bifurcation diagrams for periodic solutions of periods one and two, containing bifurcation curves of codimension one and bifurcation points of codimension two, are obtained by means of a continuation technique, corresponding to different bifurcation cases of the unforced system illustrated in five bifurcation diagrams. The seasonally forced model exhibits more complex dynamics than the unforced one, such as stable and unstable periodic solutions of various periods, stable and unstable quasiperiodic solutions, and chaotic motions through torus destruction or cascade of period doublings. Finally, some phase portraits and corresponding Poincaré map portraits are given to illustrate these different types of solutions.
Limit Cycle Bifurcations for Piecewise Smooth Hamiltonian Systems with a Generalized Eye-Figure Loop
Authors: Yang Jihua , Zhao Liqin
Published: November 2016

This paper deals with the limit cycle bifurcations for piecewise smooth Hamiltonian systems. By using the first order Melnikov function of piecewise near-Hamiltonian systems given in [Liu & Han, 2010], we give a lower bound and an upper bound of the number of limit cycles that bifurcate from the period annulus between the center and the generalized eye-figure loop up to the first order of Melnikov function.
Dual-Mode Liquid Crystal Microlens Arrays for Chaotic Encryption
Authors: Fan Di , Wang Cheng , Tong Qing , Lei Yu , Zhang Xinyu , Sang Hongshi , Wang Haiwei , Xie Changsheng
Published: November 2016

Based on our previous works on liquid crystal (LC) microlenses driven electrically, we present a new type of dual-mode liquid crystal microlens arrays (DLCMAs) for chaotic encryption applications. Currently, the DLCMAs developed by us consist of a top electrode couple constructed by two layers of controlling electrode and a bottom planar electrode. Aluminium and Indium-Tin Oxide (ITO) materials are respectively deposited over both sides of a glass substrate for shaping the top electrode couple, which is used to act as a key mode-control-part in the DLCMAs. Another ITO layer is deposited over the surface of another glass substrate for shaping the bottom public electrode. Both glass substrates with fabricated electrode structures are coupled into a microcavity fully filled by a layer of nematic liquid crystal materials. The DLCMAs proposed in this paper present excellent beam divergence and light convergence performances through loading relatively low driving voltage signals. The common optical properties of the devices, leading to a type of optical modulator of chaotic beams or light intensity adjustment devices for chaotic light coupling between functioned components, are demonstrated experimentally.
A method for solving the quantum inverse scattering problem for coupled channels at fixed energy
Authors: Scheid Werner
Published: November 2016

This paper describes the inversion of a scattering problem with coupled channels at fixed energy. The coupling potential matrix is obtained from the [Formula: see text]-matrix with the modified Newton–Sabatier method with a special expansion of the integral kernel and a determination of the potential matrix by using the coupled radial equations. The method is applied to problems restricted to two channels and with a monopole, dipole and quadrupole coupling ([Formula: see text]) between the channels. The inversion is shown to work quite satisfactorily and is useful for heavy ion scattering in nuclear physics.
YOU ARE JOKING, RIGHT? — CONNECTING HUMOUR TYPES TO INNOVATIVE BEHAVIOUR AND INNOVATION OUTPUT
Authors: HURMELINNA-LAUKKANEN PIA , ATTA-OWUSU KWADWO , OIKARINEN EEVA-LIISA
Published: November 2016

While humour is present in everyday business in practice, its strategic meaning and effectiveness are rarely investigated in relation to innovation processes or their management. In this study, we suggest that different types of humour can have both positive and negative effects on innovative work behaviour and the innovation output of individuals, and that the nature of the effects depends to an extent on whether these types of humour are present in interaction within or across organisational boundaries. Theoretical discussion and empirical evidence derived from a quantitative analysis illustrate the diversity of relationships. The results indicate that while humour is, in general, more relevant for innovation within organizations, it also bears importance with regard to external relationships, especially considering innovative work behaviour. Likewise, generally speaking, aggressive humour has negative connotations while, affiliative, coping, and reframing types of humour are associated with positive undertones. However, these connections are not self-evident. Acknowledging differences helps managers to monitor and encourage the use of humour in varying forms of interaction within and beyond their organisations for creating supportive conditions for innovation.
Conformational Change of Mutant form of Amyloid Precursor Protein by Carbon Nanotube Functionalized with Morin
Authors: Jafarinezhad Sa’ideh , Ashkezari Mahmood Dehghani , Jebali Ali
Published: November 2016

The aim of this study was to find the effect of carbon nanotube functionalized with Morin molecule (CNTFM) on normal and mutant forms of amyloid precursor protein (APP), found in Alzheimer’s disease. In this study, one mutant and one normal APP were separately modeled in Hyperchem software. After minimization of system energy, molecular dynamic (MD) simulation was separately carried out for 30[Formula: see text]000[Formula: see text]ps in NVT ensemble at 310[Formula: see text]K. At the end of simulation, different parameters, such as free energy, intermolecular energy and root mean square displacement (RMSD) were separately monitored for each APP. Finally, the ratio of change was calculated for each parameter. To confirm simulation results, one mL of mutant APP (10 mM) was incubated with one mL of CNTFM (10[Formula: see text]mg/mL) for 1[Formula: see text]h. Finally, the percentages of the different secondary structures of both treated and untreated APP were separately estimated by FTIR analysis. Based on MD simulation, high ratio of change was seen for mutant APP. Experimental study showed that the proportion of [Formula: see text]-sheets (parallel [Formula: see text] anti-parallel) and random coil was decreased when incubated with CNTFM. Moreover, the proportion of [Formula: see text]-turns was increased. Interestingly, the proportion of [Formula: see text]-sheets (anti-parallel) was not changed.
Throw partitioning across normal fault zones in the Ptolemais Basin, Greece
Authors: Delogkos Efstratios , Manzocchi Tom , Childs Conrad , Sachanidis Christos , Barbas Tryfon , Schöpfer Martin P. J. , Chatzipetros Alexandros , Pavlides Spyros , Walsh John J.
Published: November 2016

The total throw across a fault zone may not occur entirely on a single fault strand but may be distributed onto several strands or may be accommodated by distributed deformation within or adjacent to the fault zone. Here we conduct a quantitative analysis of the partitioning of throw into three components, the throw accommodated by: (a) the largest fault strand; (b) subsidiary faults; and (c) continuous deformation in the form of bed rotation in sympathy with the fault downthrow direction. This analysis is applied to seven seismic-scale fault zones at outcrop resolution (maximum throw 50 m) that were mapped over a four-year period during open-cast lignite mining within the late Miocene–Pliocene Ptolemais Basin, West Macedonia, Greece. The analysis shows that the fault zones offsetting the lignite–marl sequence are more localized at higher throws with progressively more of the total throw accommodated by the largest fault strand. Normal drag, which can account for up to 12 m of the total throw, accommodates a lower proportion of the total throw on larger faults. It appears that initial fault segmentation is the main control on the degree of, and spatial variation in, fault throw partitioning.
Dynamic Modeling and Analysis of a High Pressure Regulator
Authors: Ramzan Muhammad , Maqsood Adnan
Published: November 2016

Pressure regulator is a common device used to regulate the working pressure for plants and machines. In aerospace propulsion systems, it is used to pressurize liquid propellant rocket tanks at specified pressure for obtaining the required propellant mass flow rate. In this paper, a generalized model is developed to perform dynamic analysis of a pressure regulator so that constant pressure at outlet can be attained. A nonlinear mathematical model of pressure regulator is developed that consists of dynamic equation of pressure, temperature, equation of mass flow rate, and moving shaft inside regulator. The system of nonlinear and coupled differential equations is numerically simulated and computation of pressure and temperature is carried out for required conditions and given design parameters. Valve opening and mass flow rate are also found as a function of given inlet pressure and time. In the end, an analytical solution based on constant mass flow rate assumption is compared with nonlinear formulation. The results demonstrate a high degree of confidence in the nonlinear modeling framework proposed in this paper. The proposed model solves a real problem of liquid rocket propulsion system. For the real system under consideration, inlet pressure of regulator is decreased linearly from 150 bar to 60 bar and outlet pressure of nearly 15 bar is required from pressure regulator for the complete operating time of 19 s.
Presic Type Fixed Point Theorem for Four Maps in Metric Spaces
Authors: Rao K. P. R. , Sadik Sk. , Manro S.
Published: November 2016

We obtained a Presic type fixed point theorem for two pairs of jointly2k-weakly compatible maps in metric spaces. We also have given an example to illustrate our main theorem.
Carious Exposure versus Mechanical Exposure for MTA Pulpotomy in Primary Teeth
Authors: Çelik Burcu Nihan , Sarı Şaziye
Published: November 2016

Introduction. The etiology of exposure determines pulpal response, making it crucial to distinguish between mechanical and carious exposure. This study clinically and radiographically evaluated the success of MTA pulpotomies conducted to treat carious and mechanical pulp exposure. Materials and Methods. This study was conducted with 50 mandibular primary molar teeth. Teeth were divided into 2 groups according to status of the exposure site, with teeth surrounded by carious dentin placed in a carious exposure group and those surrounded by sound dentin in a mechanical exposure group. MTA pulpotomies were performed for both groups. Treatment was followed up clinically and radiographically for 18 months. Results. Clinical and radiographic success rates at 18 months were 100% for both groups. Success rates did not vary significantly between the groups (p=1.000). Pulp canal obliteration was only seen in the carious exposure group, observed in 2 teeth (8.3%). Conclusion. The long term success rates achieved in this study indicate that MTA can be used as a vital pulpotomy material for the long term success in primary teeth with either mechanical or carious exposure. The findings of the present study highlight the fact that treatment prognosis is dependent upon diagnosis and selection of the appropriate materials for treatment.
Younger Age Is Associated with Poorer Survival in Patients with Signet-Ring Cell Carcinoma of the Colon without Distant Metastasis
Authors: Huang Ben , Ni Mengdong , Chen Chen , Feng Yang , Cai Sanjun
Published: November 2016

Background. In general, younger age is associated with better survival in patients with colon cancer. In this study, we aim to analyze the impact of age on cancer-specific survival (CSS) in patients with signet-ring cell carcinoma (SRCC) of the colon, a particularly aggressive type of colon cancer. Methods. Information on patients with SRCC of the colon with no distant metastasis was extracted from the US Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. An X-tile plot was used to determine the optimal cutoff age at diagnosis. Results. A total of 776 patients were included in data analysis. The X-tile program revealed an optimal cutoff at 35 years of age. A higher percentage of stage III disease and a higher percentage of N2 disease were observed in patients ≤ 35 years of age. The multivariate Cox proportional model demonstrated that patients ≤ 35 years of age were more likely to have a poorer survival outcome compared with patients aged >35 years (HR 1.411, 95% CI 1.032–1.929, and P=0.031). Conclusion. In contrast to the association of younger age with better survival in colon cancer patients, younger age (≤35 years) is associated with poorer survival outcome in patients with SRCC of the colon without distant metastasis.
Biosorption and Diffusion Modeling of Pb(II) by Malt Bagasse
Authors: Fontana Klaiani B. , Lenzi Giane Gonçalves , Watanabe Erica R. L. R. , Lenzi Ervin Kaminski , Pietrobelli Juliana A. M. T. , Chaves Eduardo S.
Published: November 2016

The removal of Pb(II) from water by biosorption processes onto malt bagasse was investigated and the kinetic and thermodynamic parameters were obtained; additionally a diffusion modeling was proposed. The characterization of malt bagasse was performed by FTIR and SEM/EDS. The experiments were conducted in batch system and an experimental design based response surface methodology was applied for agitation speed and pH optimization. The kinetics of biosorption followed pseudo-second-order model and the temperature of the process affected the biosorption capacity. Isotherm models of Langmuir, Freundlich, and Elovich were applied and the Langmuir model showed better fit and the estimated biosorption capacity was 29.1 mg g−1. The negative values obtained for ΔG° and positive values of ΔH° confirm, respectively, the spontaneous and endothermic nature of the process. The diffusion modeling was performed based on experiments in the absence of agitation to investigate the influence of the biosorbent on the sorption process of Pb(II) ions.
Robust Parallel Machine Scheduling Problem with Uncertainties and Sequence-Dependent Setup Time
Authors: Hu Hongtao , Ng K. K. H. , Qin Yichen
Published: November 2016

A parallel machine scheduling problem in plastic production is studied in this paper. In this problem, the processing time and arrival time are uncertain but lie in their respective intervals. In addition, each job must be processed together with a mold while jobs which belong to one family can share the same mold. Therefore, time changing mold is required for two consecutive jobs that belong to different families, which is known as sequence-dependent setup time. This paper aims to identify a robust schedule by min–max regret criterion. It is proved that the scenario incurring maximal regret for each feasible solution lies in finite extreme scenarios. A mixed integer linear programming formulation and an exact algorithm are proposed to solve the problem. Moreover, a modified artificial bee colony algorithm is developed to solve large-scale problems. The performance of the presented algorithm is evaluated through extensive computational experiments and the results show that the proposed algorithm surpasses the exact method in terms of objective value and computational time.
The Costs and Their Determinant of Cesarean Section and Vaginal Delivery: An Exploratory Study in Chongqing Municipality, China
Authors: He Zhifei , Cheng Zhaohui , Wu Tailai , Zhou Yan , Chen Junguo , Fu Qian , Feng Zhanchun
Published: November 2016

Objectives. This study aims to analyze the cesarean section (CS) rates and vaginal delivery rates in tertiary hospitals of China, explore the costs of two different deliveries, and examine the relative influencing factors of the costs in both CS and vaginal deliveries. Methods. 30,168 anonymized obstetric medical cases were selected from three sample tertiary hospitals in Chongqing Municipality from 2011 to 2013. Chi-square test was used to compare the distributions of CS and vaginal deliveries under different indicators. Mann–Whitney test and Kruskal-Wallis test were adopted to analyze the differences under different items. Multiple linear regression was used to determine the influencing factors of the costs of different delivery modes. Results. (1) The rates of CS were 69%, 65.5%, and 59.2% in the three sample tertiary hospitals in Chongqing from 2011 to 2013. (2) The costs and the length of stay of CS were greater than those of vaginal delivery, which had significant differences (P<0.005). (3) The areas, length of stay, age, medical insurance, and modes of delivery were the influencing factors of both CS and vaginal delivery costs. Discussion. The high CS rates in China must be paid significant attention. The indicators of two modes of delivery should be regulated strictly. CS rate reduction and saving medical resources will be the benefits if vaginal delivery is chosen by pregnant women.