bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of the US Food and Drug Administration registration of antiretroviral drugs on global access to HIV treatment
Authors: Chahal Harinder Singh , Capella Peter , Presto Ryan , Murray Jeffrey S , Shimer Martin , Valdez Mary Lou , Lurie Peter G
Published: May 2018

Background

Since 2004, the US Food and Drug Administration’s (USFDA) dedicated drug review process in support of President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has made safe, effective and quality antiretrovirals (ARVs) available for millions of patients. Furthermore, the WHO and Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (Global Fund) can add the USFDA-reviewed products to their respective formularies, through a novel process of ‘one-way reliance’. We assessed the number of ARVs made available through WHO and Global Fund based on the USFDA review.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study of all the USFDA-reviewed PEPFAR drugs between 1 December 2014 and 20 March 2017 to determine 1) the percentage that are included on the WHO and Global Fund formularies; 2) the number of the USFDA ARVs supporting the WHO HIV treatment guidelines, and their uptake by WHO and Global Fund and 3) time between the USFDA review and WHO review of the same ARVs.

Findings

Overall, 91% (204/224) of the USFDA products appeared on either the WHO/Prequalification of Medicines Programme (PQP) or the Global Fund ARV lists. Forty-five per cent (100/224) and 83% (184/224) appear on WHO/PQP and Global Fund formularies through one-way reliance, respectively. Forty-one per cent (91/224) of the USFDA products support the WHO-preferred first-line HIV treatment options. Of these 91 products, 38% and 85% of products were adopted by WHO/PQP and Global Fund through one-way reliance, respectively. Sixty-six products that were fully reviewed and registered by WHO (vs one-way reliance) had also undergone the USFDA review; 46 of these were registered by WHO after the USFDA review was complete (median delay of 559 days (IQR 233–798 days)).

Conclusions

The USFDA’s PEPFAR process is making safe and effective ARVs available worldwide, in part because the major global ARV procurement organisations rely on the USFDA registration as proof of quality. There is room for improved information sharing and collaboration to reduce duplication of effort, save resources and further expedite access to ARVs.
Comparing and contrasting ‘innovation platforms’ with other forms of professional networks for strengthening primary healthcare systems for Indigenous Australians
Authors: Bailie Jodie , Cunningham Frances Clare , Bainbridge Roxanne Gwendalyn , Passey Megan E , Laycock Alison Frances , Bailie Ross Stewart , Larkins Sarah L , Brands Jenny S M , Ramanathan Shanthi , Abimbola Seye , Peiris David
Published: May 2018

Efforts to strengthen health systems require the engagement of diverse, multidisciplinary stakeholder networks. Networks provide a forum for experimentation and knowledge creation, information exchange and the spread of good ideas and practice. They might be useful in addressing complex issues or ‘wicked’ problems, the solutions to which go beyond the control and scope of any one agency.

Innovation platforms are proposed as a novel type of network because of their diverse stakeholder composition and focus on problem solving within complex systems. Thus, they have potential applicability to health systems strengthening initiatives, even though they have been predominantly applied in the international agricultural development sector.

In this paper, we compare and contrast the concept of innovation platforms with other types of networks that can be used in efforts to strengthen primary healthcare systems, such as communities of practice, practice-based research networks and quality improvement collaboratives. We reflect on our ongoing research programme that applies innovation platform concepts to drive large-scale quality improvement in primary healthcare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians and outline our plans for evaluation. Lessons from our experience will find resonance with others working on similar initiatives in global health.
Using a population-based survey approach to estimate child separation after a natural disaster: findings from post-Hurricane Haiti
Authors: Stark Lindsay , MacFarlane Matthew , Rubenstein Beth L , Yu Gary , Jensen Celina , Williamson Katharine
Published: May 2018

Introduction

This study explores findings of a population-based approach to measure the prevalence of unaccompanied and separated children (UASC) during the Hurricane Matthew aftermath in Haiti.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey using two-stage cluster sampling. Participants were asked to provide information on their own household composition, as well as the household composition of their closest neighbour (the Neighborhood Method). The study took place between February and March 2017 in Haiti’s Sud Department, a region severely affected by Hurricane Matthew in October 2016. 1044 primary respondents provided information about their own household, and 4165 people in the household of their closet neighbour. The primary outcome measured was the prevalence of UASC in the Sud Department following Hurricane Matthew. Secondary outcomes of interest included the characteristics of these children, including age, sex, reason for separation and current caregiver.

Results

Of the 2046 children currently living in the surveyed households, 3.03% (95% CI 2.29% to 3.77%) were reported to have been separated from their normal caregiver during Hurricane Matthew. Among these 62 children, 9 were unaccompanied, and there were slightly more boys than girls (56% vs 44%, p=0.37). Of the 2060 children who lived in surveyed households when the hurricane hit, 1.12% (95% CI 0.67% to 1.57%) had since departed without their caregiver. The prevalence of separation reported for neighbours’ households was not significantly different from that in respondents’ households (p values between 0.08 and 0.29).

Conclusions

This study is the first known attempt to measure the prevalence of child separation following a natural disaster. Overall, the rates of separation were relatively low. Similarities between primary and secondary reports of child separation via the Neighborhood Method indicate that this may be a viable approach to measuring UASC in certain contexts.
Automated, computer-guided PASI measurements by digital image analysis versus conventional physicians’ PASI calculations: study protocol for a comparative, single-centre, observational study
Authors: Fink Christine , Uhlmann Lorenz , Klose Christina , Haenssle Holger A
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Reliable and accurate assessment of severity in psoriasis is very important in order to meet indication criteria for initiation of systemic treatment or to evaluate treatment efficacy. The most acknowledged tool for measuring the extent of psoriatic skin changes is the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI). However, the calculation of PASI can be tedious and subjective and high intraobserver and interobserver variability is an important concern. Therefore, there is a great need for a standardised and objective method that guarantees a reproducible PASI calculation. Within this study we will investigate the precision and reproducibility of automated, computer-guided PASI measurements in comparison to trained physicians to address these limitations.

Methods and analysis

Non-interventional analyses of PASI calculations by either physicians in a prospective versus retrospective setting or an automated computer-guided algorithm in 120 patients with plaque psoriasis. All retrospective PASI calculations by physicians or by the computer algorithm are based on total body digital images. The primary objective of this study is comparison of automated computer-guided PASI measurements by means of digital image analysis versus conventional, prospective or retrospective physicians' PASI assessments. Secondary endpoints include (1) the assessment of physicians’ interobserver variance in PASI calculations, (2) the assessment of physicians’ intraobserver variance in PASI assessments of the same patients' images after a time interval of at least 4 weeks, (3) the assessment of the deviation between physicians’ prospective versus retrospective PASI calculations, and (4) the reproducibility of automated computer-guided PASI measurements by assessment of two sets of total body digital images of the same patients taken at one time point.

Ethics

Ethical approval was provided by the Ethics Committee of the Medical Faculty of the University of Heidelberg (ethics approval number S-379/2016).

Trial registrationnumber

DRKS00011818; Results.
Comparison of the effect of immediate versus delayed transfer following a stimulated IVF cycle on the ongoing pregnancy rate of frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Li He , Li Lu , Lu Xiang , Sun Xiaoxi , Ng Ernest Hung Yu
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) has become an increasingly important part of in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment. Currently, there is still no good scientific evidence to support when to perform FET following a stimulated IVF cycle. Since all published studies are retrospective and the findings are contradictory, a randomised controlled study is needed to provide Level 1 evidence to guide the clinical practice.

Methods/analysis

This is a randomised controlled trial. A total of 724 women undergoing the first FET following ovarian stimulation in IVF will be enrolled and randomised according to a computer-generated randomisation list to either (1) the immediate group in which FET will be performed in the first cycle following the stimulated IVF cycle or (2) the delayed group in which FET will be performed at least in the second cycle following the stimulated IVF cycle. The primary outcome is the ongoing pregnancy defined as a viable pregnancy beyond 12 weeks’ gestation.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been granted by the Ethics Committee of Assisted Reproductive Medicine in Shanghai JiAi Genetics & IVF Institute (JIAI E2017-12) and from the Institutional Review Board of the University of Hong Kong Hospital Authority Hong Kong West Cluster (UW 17–371). A written informed consent will be obtained from each woman before any study procedure is performed, according to good clinical practice. The results of this trial will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed journal.

Trial registration number

NCT03201783;Pre-results.
Accuracy of lung cancer ICD-9-CM codes in Umbria, Napoli 3 Sud and Friuli Venezia Giulia administrative healthcare databases: a diagnostic accuracy study
Authors: Montedori Alessandro , Bidoli Ettore , Serraino Diego , Fusco Mario , Giovannini Gianni , Casucci Paola , Franchini David , Granata Annalisa , Ciullo Valerio , Vitale Maria Francesca , Gobbato Michele , Chiari Rita , Cozzolino Francesco , Orso Massimiliano , Orlandi Walter , Abraha Iosief
Published: May 2018

Objectives

To assess the accuracy of International Classification of Diseases 9th Revision–Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) codes in identifying subjects with lung cancer.

Design

A cross-sectional diagnostic accuracy study comparing ICD-9-CM 162.x code (index test) in primary position with medical chart (reference standard). Case ascertainment was based on the presence of a primary nodular lesion in the lung and cytological or histological documentation of cancer from a primary or metastatic site.

Setting

Three operative units: administrative databases from Umbria Region (890 000 residents), ASL Napoli 3 Sud (NA) (1 170 000 residents) and Friuli Venezia Giulia (FVG) Region (1 227 000 residents).

Participants

Incident subjects with lung cancer (n=386) diagnosed in primary position between 2012 and 2014 and a population of non-cases (n=280).

Outcome measures

Sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value (PPV) for 162.x code.

Results

130 cases and 94 non-cases were randomly selected from each database and the corresponding medical charts were reviewed. Most of the diagnoses for lung cancer were performed in medical departments.

True positive rates were high for all the three units. Sensitivity was 99% (95% CI 95% to 100%) for Umbria, 97% (95% CI 91% to 100%) for NA, and 99% (95% CI 95% to 100%) for FVG. The false positive rates were 24%, 37% and 23% for Umbria, NA and FVG, respectively. PPVs were 79% (73% to 83%)%) for Umbria, 58% (53% to 63%)%) for NA and 79% (73% to 84%)%) for FVG.

Conclusions

Case ascertainment for lung cancer based on imaging or endoscopy associated with histological examination yielded an excellent sensitivity in all the three administrative databases. PPV was moderate for Umbria and FVG but lower for NA.
Exploring variation in human papillomavirus vaccination uptake in Switzerland: a multilevel spatial analysis of a national vaccination coverage survey
Authors: Riesen Maurane , Konstantinoudis Garyfallos , Lang Phung , Low Nicola , Hatz Christoph , Maeusezahl Mirjam , Spaar Anne , Bühlmann Marc , Spycher Ben D , Althaus Christian L
Published: May 2018

Objective

Understanding the factors that influence human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination uptake is critically important to the design of effective vaccination programmes. In Switzerland, HPV vaccination uptake (≥1 dose) by age 16 years among women ranges from 31% to 80% across 26 cantons (states). Our objective was to identify factors that are associated with the spatial variation in HPV vaccination uptake.

Methods

We used cross-sectional data from the Swiss National Vaccination Coverage Survey 2009–2016 on HPV vaccination status (≥1 dose) of 14–17-year-old girls, their municipality of residence and their nationality for 21 of 26 cantons (n=8965). We examined covariates at municipality level: language, degree of urbanisation, socioeconomic position, religious denomination, results of a vote about vaccination laws as a proxy for vaccine scepticism and, at cantonal level, availability of school-based vaccination and survey period. We used a series of conditional autoregressive models to assess the effects of covariates while accounting for variability between cantons and municipal-level spatial autocorrelation.

Results

In the best-fit model, living in cantons that have school-based vaccination (adjusted OR 2.51; 95% credible interval 1.77 to 3.56) was associated with increased uptake, while living in municipalities with lower acceptance of vaccination laws was associated with lower HPV vaccination uptake (OR 0.61; 95% credible interval 0.50 to 0.73). Overall, the covariates explained 88% of the municipal-level variation in uptake.

Conclusions

In Switzerland, both cantons and community opinion about vaccination play a prominent role in the variation in HPV vaccination uptake. To increase uptake, efforts should be made to mitigate vaccination scepticism and to encourage school-based vaccination.
Investigating admitted patients’ satisfaction with nursing care at Debre Berhan Referral Hospital in Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Sharew Nigussie Tadesse , Bizuneh Hailegiorgis Teklegiorgis , Assefa Hilina Ketema , Habtewold Tesfa Dejenie
Published: May 2018

Objectives

The aims of the study were (1) to assess the level of patient satisfaction with nursing care and (2) to identify factors influencing patient satisfaction.

Design

A hospital-based, cross-sectional study was conducted with 252 admitted patients in the medical, surgical and paediatric wards.

Setting

Debre Berhan Referral Hospital, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia, with a catchment population of 2.8 million.

Participants

All patients admitted at least for 2 days and capable of independent communication were included. However, patients were excluded on any one of the following conditions: admitted for less than 2 days, cannot understand Amharic language, with critical illness or cognitive impairment that affects judgement, or inability to provide written informed consent. The mean age of the patients was 37.9 (SD=12.9) years, and half (50.4%) of them were male.

Primary outcome measure

Patient satisfaction with nursing care, measured by the Newcastle Satisfaction with Nursing Scale, was the outcome variable. Using a mean split approach, patient satisfaction scores were dichotomised into ‘satisfied’ and ‘unsatisfied’.

Results

49.2% of patients were satisfied with nursing care. Educational status and history of admission were significant factors influencing patient satisfaction with nursing care. Patients who had high educational status were 80% less satisfied compared with those who had no formal education (p=0.01, OR=0.2, 95% CI 0.1 to 0.7). Patients who had a history of admission were 2.2 times more satisfied compared with those who had no history of admission (p=0.02, OR=2.2, 95% CI 1.2 to 4.2).

Conclusions

About half the admitted patients were satisfied with the nursing care. Satisfaction differed significantly by patients’ educational attainment and history of admission. This study provided evidence on patient satisfaction with nursing care in Ethiopia. This information may be useful in comparative studies of patient satisfaction and in identifying characteristics that may explain or predict patient satisfaction.
Thrombectomy 6-24 hours after stroke in trial ineligible patients
Authors: Desai Shashvat M , Rocha Marcelo , Molyneaux Bradley J , Starr Matthew , Kenmuir Cynthia L , Gross Bradley A , Jankowitz Brian Thomas , Jovin Tudor G , Jadhav Ashutosh P
Published: May 2018

Background and purpose

The DAWN and DEFUSE-3 trials demonstrated the benefit of endovascular thrombectomy (ET) in late-presenting acute ischemic strokes due to anterior circulation large vessel occlusion (ACLVO). Strict criteria were employed for patient selection. We sought to evaluate the characteristics and outcomes of patients treated outside these trials.

Methods

A retrospective review of acute ischemic stroke admissions to a single comprehensive stroke center was performed during the DAWN trial enrollment period (November 2014 to February 2017) to identify all patients presenting in the 6–24 hour time window. These patients were further investigated for trial eligibility, baseline characteristics, treatment, and outcomes.

Results

Approximately 70% (n=142) of the 204 patients presenting 6–24 hours after last known well with NIH Stroke Scale score ≥6 and harboring an ACLVO are DAWN and/or DEFUSE-3 ineligible, most commonly due to large infarct burden (38%). 26% (n=37) of trial ineligible patients with large vessel occlusion strokes received off-label ET and 30% of them achieved functional independence (modified Rankin Scale 0–2) at 90 days. Rates of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage and mortality were 8% and 24%, respectively

Conclusion

Trial ineligible patients with large vessel occlusion strokes receiving off-label ET achieved outcomes comparable to DAWN and DEFUSE-3 eligible patients. Patients aged <80 years are most likely to benefit from ET in this subgroup. These data indicate a larger population of patients who can potentially benefit from ET in the expanded time window if more permissive criteria are applied.
Factors associated with condom use and HIV testing among young men who have sex with men: a cross-sectional survey in a random online sample in Sweden
Authors: Johansson Klara , Persson Kristina Ingemarsdotter , Deogan Charlotte , El-Khatib Ziad
Published: May 2018

Objectives

The objectives are to analyse social determinants of sexual health behaviour (condom use and HIV testing) among young, internet-active, cis men who have sex with men (MSM) in a high-income country. The aspects of sexual health behaviour analysed here are condomless anal intercourse with one or more new or casual partner(s), condomless anal intercourse during the most recent sex with a man and HIV testing.

Methods

A randomised sample of men active on Sweden’s main online community for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans people responded to an online survey (response rate 19%). A subsample of young people, aged 15–29, was analysed (effective sample 597–669) using multivariable logistic regression with respect to factors associated with condomless anal intercourse with one or more new or casual partner(s), condomless anal intercourse at most recent sex and not having had a test for HIV.

Results

Low education, being single and living in a metropolitan area were found to be independently associated with condomless anal intercourse with new or casual partner(s). Sex with a steady partner was associated with condomless anal intercourse during the most recent sex. Knowledge of where to get tested, high education, being born outside Sweden and condomless anal intercourse with new or casual sex partner(s) were independently associated with having been tested for HIV.

Conclusions

The factors associated with sexual health behaviour among young MSM are complex, and preventive messages need to be tailored accordingly.
Lentivirus-mediated down-regulation of CK2α inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis of malignant lymphoma and leukemia cells
Authors: Jiang Li , Zhang Jinghui , Hu Naifeng , Liu Aichun , Zhu Hailong , Li Lianqiao , Tian Yuyang , Chen Xue , Quan Lina
Published: May 2018

Casein kinase II subunit alpha (CK2α) is highly expressed in many malignant tumor tissues, including lymphomas and leukemia. To investigate the role of CK2α in cell proliferation and apoptosis of malignant lymphomas and leukemia, 2 lymphoma cell lines and one leukemia cell line were infected with CK2α shRNA lentivirus or negative control shRNA lentivirus, and stably infected cell lines were established. Real-time PCR and Western blot results showed that the mRNA and protein levels of CK2α were significantly reduced in CK2α knockdown cells. The tetrazolium-based colorimetric (MTT) assay found that down-regulation of CK2α inhibited the proliferation of these cells. Flow cytometry analysis showed that inhibition of CK2α induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of lymphoma and leukemia cells. In accordance with these, down-regulation of CK2α also reduced the protein levels of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), cyclinD1, and bcl-2, and increased the protein expression of bax, cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-9, and cleaved poly(ADP ribose) polymerase (PARP). Moreover, knockdown of CK2α impeded the growth of xenograft tumors in vivo. In summary, our study revealed that CK2α may contribute to the development of malignant lymphoma and leukemia, and serve as the therapeutic target of these malignant tumors.
Experimental study of dynamic bending failure of Laurentian granite: loading rate and pre-load effects
Authors: Yao Wei , Xia Kaiwen , Jha Ajay Kumar
Published: May 2018

In deep underground rock engineering projects, rocks are under static pre-load and they may further experience dynamic load due to earthquakes or production blasts. It is thus desirable to consider dynamic failure of rocks subjected to static pre-load. Besides, bending load is commonly encountered near underground openings. Therefore, this study considers the effect of the pre-load on the dynamic bending strength of Laurentian granite (LG). Using a modified split Hopkinson pressure bar system, the semi-circular bend (SCB) method is applied to carry out the bending tests. Five groups of SCB specimens are tested under different pre-loads and loading rates. The results show that under a given pre-load, the flexural tensile strength of LG increases with the loading rate, and decreases with the static pre-load at a given loading rate. The total flexural tensile strength is roughly independent of the pre-load. An empirical equation is used to represent the effects of the loading rate and the pre-load force on the dynamic flexural tensile strength. Furthermore, the flexural tensile strengths measured from SCB tests have higher values than the tensile strengths measured using the Brazilian disc method for the same rock. A nonlocal failure theory is utilized to quantitatively interpret this discrepancy.
Assessing the performance response of laying hens to intake levels of digestible balanced protein from 27 to 66 wk of age
Authors: Kumar D. , Raginski C. , Schwean-Lardner K. , Classen H.L.
Published: May 2018

Laying hens continue to improve in egg production (EP) and feed efficiency (FE), and therefore, it is relevant to re-examine their digestible balanced protein (BP) requirements. From 27 to 66 wk of age, hens (Lohmann-LSL Lite) were fed diets designed to provide 550, 625, 700, 775, or 850 mg hen−1 d−1 of amino acid balanced digestible lysine (Dlys). Response criteria included EP, egg weight (EW), feed intake (FI), mortality, egg mass (EM), egg size classifications, FE (kg feed kg−1 EM), and lysine efficiency (LE; mg Dlys g−1 EM). The experiment was a completely randomized design, and data were analyzed using regression analysis. Differences were considered significant if P ≤ 0.05. Hen-day (HD) EP, EW, EM, FI, and LE increased and FE and mortality decreased in a quadratic fashion with increasing Dlys intake, while the proportion of cracked eggs increased linearly. Egg size classifications increased linearly (jumbo, extra-large) and quadratically (large) or decreased in a quadratic manner (medium, small) with increasing Dlys intake. Maximum HDEP, EW, and EM, and minimum FE were achieved at 769, 903, 836, and 839 mg hen−1 d−1 intake of Dlys, respectively. In conclusion, the digestible BP requirement of laying hens varies with response criteria.
Comparative effects of grain source on digestion characteristics of finishing diets for feedlot cattle: steam-flaked corn, barley, wheat, and oats
Authors: Plascencia Alejandro , González-Vizcarra Víctor M. , Zinn Richard A.
Published: May 2018

Twelve Holstein steers (454 ± 32 kg) with cannulas in rumen and proximal duodenum were used in a generalized randomized block design to compare steam-flaked corn (SFC), barley (SFB), wheat (SFW), and oats (SFO) as grain sources (74% of diet dry matter, flake density = 0.31 kg L−1) on characteristics of digestion. Ruminal organic matter (OM) digestion was similar for SFC-, SFB-, and SFW-based diets, but lower for SFO. Ruminal microbial efficiency was greater for SFW and SFO. Given that the undegradable intake protein (UIP) value of SFC is 57%, the comparative UIP values for SFB, SFW, and SFO were 39.8%, 36.1%, and 47.3%, respectively. Ruminal starch digestion was lower for SFC than the other flaked grains. Total-tract OM digestion and digestible energy were greatest for SFC, intermediate for SFB and SFW, and lowest for SFO. Given the net energy maintenance (NEm) value of SFC is 2.40 Mcal kg−1, the comparative NEm value for SFB, SFW, and SFO were 2.25, 2.36, and 2.17 Mcal kg−1, respectively. Steam flaking results in important modifications of small grains that appreciably affect their comparative feeding value. Current standards underestimates the NE value of SFB, SFW, and SFO, and overestimates the UIP values for SFB and SFO.
Interaction of anisotropic dark energy fluid with perfect fluid in the presence of cosmological term Λ
Authors: Singh S. Surendra
Published: May 2018

Considering the locally rotationally symmetric (LRS) Bianchi type-I metric with cosmological constant [Formula: see text], Einstein’s field equations are discussed based on the background of anisotropic fluid. We assumed the condition A = B[Formula: see text] for the metric potentials A and B, where m is a positive constant to obtain the viable model of the Universe. It is found that [Formula: see text] is positive and inversely proportional to time. The values of matter-energy density [Formula: see text], dark energy density [Formula: see text] and deceleration parameter q are found to be consistent with the values of WMAP observations. State finder parameters and anisotropic deviation parameter are also investigated. It is also observed that the derived model is an accelerating, shearing and non-rotating Universe. Some of the asymptotic and geometrical behaviors of the derived models are investigated with the age of the Universe.
Gravitational waves — A review on the theoretical foundations of gravitational radiation
Authors: Dirkes Alain
Published: May 2018

In this paper, we review the theoretical foundations of gravitational waves in the framework of Albert Einstein’s theory of general relativity. Following Einstein’s early efforts, we first derive the linearized Einstein field equations and work out the corresponding gravitational wave equation. Moreover, we present the gravitational potentials in the far away wave zone field point approximation obtained from the relaxed Einstein field equations. We close this review by taking a closer look on the radiative losses of gravitating [Formula: see text]-body systems and present some aspects of the current interferometric gravitational waves detectors. Each section has a separate appendix contribution where further computational details are displayed. To conclude, we summarize the main results and present a brief outlook in terms of current ongoing efforts to build a spaced-based gravitational wave observatory.
The isospin strange asymmetry from the chiral effective theory
Authors: Trevisan Luis Augusto , Mirez Carlos
Published: May 2018

The proposal of the present work is to study the difference between the strange quark–antiquark amount in the proton and neutron. For this purpose, the possible nucleon–hyperon–kaon fluctuations are analyzed with the effective chiral theory. The small difference of particle masses is shown to be in the origin of this isospin asymmetry. The dependence of the results on the mass cutoff parameter and with the coupling constants is analyzed.
Accretion onto a noncommutative-inspired Schwarzschild black hole
Authors: Gangopadhyay Sunandan , Paik Biplab , Mandal Rituparna
Published: May 2018

In this paper, we investigate the problem of ordinary baryonic matter accretion onto the noncommutative (NC) geometry-inspired Schwarzschild black hole. The fundamental equations governing the spherically symmetric steady state matter accretion are deduced. These equations are seen to be modified due to the presence of noncommutativity. The matter accretion rate is computed and is found to increase rapidly with the increase in strength of the NC parameter. The sonic radius reduces while the sound speed at the sonic point increases with the increase in the strength of noncommutativity. The profile of the thermal environment is finally investigated below the sonic radius and at the event horizon and is found to be affected by noncommutativity.
The photovoltaic performance of Ag2S quantum dots-sensitized solar cells using plasmonic Au nanoparticles/TiO2 working electrodes
Authors: Badawi Ali , Mostafa Nasser Y. , Al-Hosiny Najm M. , Merazga Amar , Albaradi Ateyyah M. , Abdel-Wahab F. , Atta A. A.
Published: May 2018

The photovoltaic performance of silver sulfide (Ag2S) quantum dots-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) using different concentrations (0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.3 and 0.5 wt.%) of plasmonic Au nanoparticles (NPs)/titania (TiO2) electrodes has been investigated. Ag2S quantum dots (QDs) were adsorbed onto the Au NPs/titania electrodes using the successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) deposition technique. The morphological properties of the Au NPs and the prepared titania electrodes were characterized using transmission electron microscope (TEM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM), respectively. The energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectra of the bare titania and Ag2S QDs-sensitized titania electrodes were recorded. The optical properties of the prepared Ag2S QDs-sensitized titania electrodes were measured using a UV–visible spectrophotometer. The estimated energy band gap of Ag2S QDs-sensitized titania electrodes is 1.96 eV. The photovoltaic performance of the assembled Ag2S QDSSCs was measured under 100 mW/cm2 solar illumination. The optimal photovoltaic parameters were obtained as follows: open circuit voltage [Formula: see text] = 0.50 V, current density [Formula: see text] = 3.18 mA/cm2, fill factor (FF) = 0.35 and energy conversion efficiency [Formula: see text] = 0.55% for 0.3 wt.% of Au NPs/titania electrode. These results are attributed to the enhancement in the absorption and decrease in the electron–hole pairs recombination rate. The open circuit voltage decay (OCVD) measurements of the assembled Ag2S QDSSCs were measured. The calculated electron lifetime [Formula: see text] in Ag2S QDSSCs with Au NPs/titania electrodes is at least one order of magnitude more than that with bare titania electrode. The cut-on–cut-off cycles of the solar illumination measurements show the rapid sensitivity and good reproducibility of the assembled Ag2S QDSSCs.
A Business Software Testing Process-Based Model Design
Authors: Vukovic Vuk , Djurkovic Jovica , Trninic Jelica
Published: May 2018

This study analyzes relevant contemporary software testing process models. In addition to contemporary theoretical models, the study also analyzes business software testing process models in a considerable number of software organizations. The dual (i.e. theoretical and empirical) analysis of the testing process aims to provide a basis for a testing process model design which is specific to testing business software in small and medium software organizations. The empirical study was conducted by a survey research strategy in 24 software organizations. In order to gather detailed information on the testing process, an interview was conducted on a purpose-selected sample of four organizations. The gathered data were processed by quantitative and qualitative data analysis. The results of theoretical and empirical research were used as a basis for attaining the study’s desired outcome: the business software testing process-based model which was graphically presented in BPMN 2.0 notation and described according to the ISO/IEC TR 24774 standard for process description in systems and software engineering. The combination of the graphic representation of the model and its description in compliance with the process description is a proven method in process management, which should enable easier understanding, and thus the implementation of the model in small and medium software organizations.
Information, Incentives, and Government Intervention for Food Safety
Authors: Pouliot Sebastien , Wang H. Holly
Published: May 2018

Foodborne illnesses are an important health issue throughout the world. Food safety incidents cause significant economic losses in a multitude of ways, including discomfort, pain, loss in productivity, and death. This review examines issues in the economics of food safety. We first discuss the analysis of costs and benefits of food safety intervention and their usefulness in guiding policy making, and then look into the information problems that dampen the market incentives for the provision of food safety. Building on this discussion, we examine how a government can intervene in food safety either through direct intervention or by increasing the incentives for firms to supply safe food and then look briefly into private initiatives in food safety. We conclude by inviting new research that exploits new estimation techniques and newly available data.
Fault Diagnosis Method Based on Gap Metric Data Preprocessing and Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Wang Zihan , Wen Chenglin , Xu Xiaoming , Ji Siyu
Published: May 2018

Principal component analysis (PCA) is widely used in fault diagnosis. Because the traditional data preprocessing method ignores the correlation between different variables in the system, the feature extraction is not accurate. In order to solve it, this paper proposes a kind of data preprocessing method based on the Gap metric to improve the performance of PCA in fault diagnosis. For different types of faults, the original dataset transformation through Gap metric can reflect the correlation of different variables of the system in high-dimensional space, so as to model more accurately. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method are verified through simulation.
PP- and Split PS-Wave AVA Responses of Fractured Shale
Authors: Yang Shuai , Lu Jun
Published: May 2018

With seismic exploration advancing to the deep Earth, the seismic response of fractured strata has currently become a hot research topic. However, characteristics of the amplitude variation with angle (AVA) of saturated fractured shale still remain unclear. Furthermore, the direct relationships between the AVA response and fracture system parameters have not received much attention. This study is aimed at analyzing the effect of fracture density on AVA responses of fractured shale. For this purpose, we propose a method for modeling saturated fractured shale and analyzing AVA responses of PP- and split PS-waves. First, we introduce Gurevich’s fluid theory into the fractured-shale modeling and establish the relationship between Thomsen’s weak anisotropy parameters and fracture density and fluid properties. Second, we perform forward simulation considering an isotropic overburden and a fractured stratum. The results show that differences in AVA responses of the fractured-shale model and the isotropic model increase with increasing fracture densities. At small to intermediate incidence angles, the reflection coefficients of split PS-waves increase, whereas those of PP-wave decrease. The reflection coefficients of the two models differ dramatically at incidence angles larger than 55°. Furthermore, when the fracture density is large, polarity reversal occurs only in PS2-wave AVA gathers.
Di‐(2‐Ethylhexyl) Phthalate Increases Obesity‐Induced Damage to the Male Reproductive System in Mice
Authors: Zhao Jian , Ren Shi , Liu Chunyu , Huo Li , Liu Zheng , Zhai Lingling
Published: May 2018

Objective. This study evaluated the effects of di‐(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and obesity on male reproductive organ function in male mice and the potential mechanism of male secondary hypogonadism (SH) in such mice. Methods. 140 mice were assigned to six groups for 12 weeks: normal, DEHP, DIO, DIO + DEHP low, DIO + DEHP middle, and DIO + DEHP high. The effects of DEHP and obesity upon the reproductive organs were determined by measuring sperm count and motility, relative testis and epididymis weight, hormone level, and pathological changes. Oxidative stress was evaluated by determining malondialdehyde, T‐AOC, SOD, GSH, H2O2, CAT, and GSH‐PX in testicular tissues. Nrf2 and Keap1 protein were measured by Western blotting. Results. DEHP and obesity reduced sperm count and motility, relative testis and epididymis weight, and testosterone level but increased the levels of MDA, H2O2, leptin, and estradiol. Pathological injury was observed in the testicular Leydig cells. Moreover, the activity of CAT, SOD, and GSH‐Px enzymes was inhibited. Nrf2 protein expression was reduced but that of Keap1 was increased. Conclusions. DEHP and obesity jointly caused damage to male productive function. Oxidative stress in testicular tissue, and a high level of leptin, may provide some evidence to clarify the mechanisms of male SH with DEHP and obesity.
Malignant Bowel Obstruction in Advanced Gynecologic Cancers: An Updated Review from a Multidisciplinary Perspective
Authors: Lee Yeh Chen , Jivraj Nazlin , O’Brien Catherine , Chawla Tanya , Shlomovitz Eran , Buchanan Sarah , Lau Jenny , Croke Jennifer , Allard Johane P. , Dhar Preeti , Laframboise Stephane , Ferguson Sarah E. , Dhani Neesha , Butler Marcus , Ng Pamela , Stuart-McEwan Terri , Savage Pamela , Tinker Lisa , Oza Amit M. , Lheureux Stephanie
Published: May 2018

Malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) is a major complication in women with advanced gynecologic cancers which imposes a significant burden on patients, caregivers, and healthcare systems. Symptoms of MBO are challenging to palliate and result in progressive decompensation of already vulnerable patients with limited therapeutic options and a short prognosis. However, there is a paucity of guidelines or innovative approaches to improve the care of women who develop MBO. MBO is a complex clinical situation that requires a multidisciplinary approach to ensure the appropriate treatment modality and interprofessional care to optimally manage these patients. This review summarizes the current literature on the different approaches targeting MBO management including surgical intervention, chemotherapy, total parenteral nutrition, and pharmacological treatment. In addition, the impact of MBO management on patients’ quality of life (QOL) is examined. This article focuses on the challenges in developing evidence-based treatment guidelines for MBO and barriers in clinical trial design for MBO and proposes strategies to advance the MBO management. Collaboration is essential to design studies that may improve the overall care and quality of life for these patients. Prospective data are needed to inform clinical practice, establish a new benchmark for evidence-based MBO management, and better understand the biology of MBO.
A Real-Time 3D Perception and Reconstruction System Based on a 2D Laser Scanner
Authors: Fang Zheng , Zhao Shibo , Wen Shiguang , Zhang Yu
Published: May 2018

This paper presents a real-time and low-cost 3D perception and reconstruction system which is suitable for autonomous navigation and large-scale environment reconstruction. The 3D mapping system is based on a rotating 2D planar laser scanner driven by a step motor, which is suitable for continuous mapping. However, for such a continuous mapping system, the challenge is that the range measurements are received at different times when the 3D LiDAR is moving, which will result in big distortion of the local 3D point cloud. As a result, the errors in motion estimation can cause misregistration of the resulting point cloud. In order to continuously estimate the trajectory of the sensor, we first extract feature points from the local point cloud and then estimate the transformation between current frame to local map to get the LiDAR odometry. After that, we use the estimated motion to remove the distortion of the local point cloud and then register the undistorted local point cloud to the global point cloud to get accurate global map. Finally, we propose a coarse-to-fine graph optimization method to minimize the global drift. The proposed 3D sensor system is advantageous due to its mechanical simplicity, mobility, low weight, low cost, and real-time estimation. To validate the performance of the proposed system, we carried out several experiments to verify its accuracy, robustness, and efficiency. The experimental results show that our system can accurately estimate the trajectory of the sensor and build a quality 3D point cloud map simultaneously.
A Review on Adducin from Functional to Pathological Mechanisms: Future Direction in Cancer
Authors: Kiang Karrie Mei-Yee , Leung Gilberto Ka-Kit
Published: May 2018

Adducin (ADD) is a family of membrane skeleton proteins including ADD1, ADD2, and ADD3 that are encoded by distinct genes on different chromosomes. Adducin is primarily responsible for the assembly of spectrin-actin network that provides physical support to the plasma membrane and mediates signal transduction in various cellular physiological processes upon regulation by protein kinase C-dependent and calcium/calmodulin-dependent pathways. Abnormal phosphorylation, genetic variations, and alternative splicing of adducin may contribute to alterations in cellular functions involved in pathogenic processes. These alterations are associated with a wide range of diseases including cancer. This paper begins with a discussion on how adducin partakes in the structural formation of membrane skeleton, its regulation, and related functional characteristics, followed by a review on the pathogenesis of hypertension, biliary atresia, and cancer with respect to increased disease susceptibility mediated by adducin polymorphism and/or dysregulation. Given the functional diversity of adducin in different cellular compartments, we aim to provide a knowledge base whereby its pathophysiological roles can be better understood. More importantly, we aim to provide novel insights that may be of significance in turning the adducin model to clinical application.
A Comprehensive Evaluation of the Predictive Abilities of Fetal Electrocardiogram-Derived Parameters during Labor in Newborn Acidemia: Our Institutional Experience
Authors: Tian Ning , Zhang Weiyuan
Published: May 2018

This study aimed to identify cardiotocography patterns that discriminate fetal acidemia newborns by comprehensively evaluating the parameters obtained from Holter monitoring during delivery. Between June 1, 2015, and August 1, 2016, a prospective observational study of 85 patients was conducted using fetal Holter monitoring at the Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, China. Umbilical cord blood was sampled immediately after delivery and fetal acidemia was defined as umbilical cord arterial blood pH < 7.20. Fetal electrocardiogram- (FECG-) derived parameters, including basal fetal heart rate (BFHR), short-term variation (STV), large acceleration (LA), deceleration capacity (DC), acceleration capacity (AC), proportion of episodes of high variation (PEHV), and proportion of episodes of low variation (PELV), were compared between 16 fetuses with acidemia and 47 without. The areas under the curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristics (ROC) were calculated. Although all the computerized parameters showed predictive values for acidemia (all AUC > 0.50), STV (AUC = 0.84, P<0.001), DC (AUC = 0.84, P<0.001), AC (AUC = 0.80, P<0.001), and PELV (AUC = 0.71, P=0.012) were more strongly associated with fetal acidemia. Our institutional experience suggests that FECG-derived parameters from Holter monitoring are beneficial in reducing the incidence of neonatal acidemia.
A Novel Security Scheme Based on Instant Encrypted Transmission for Internet of Things
Authors: Wang Chen , Shen Jian , Liu Qi , Ren Yongjun , Li Tong
Published: May 2018

Internet of Things (IoT) is a research field that has been continuously developed and innovated in recent years and is also an important driving force for the improvement of people’s life in the future. There are lots of scenarios in IoT where we need to collaborate through devices to complete tasks; that is, a device sends data to other devices, and other devices operate on the aid of the data. These transmitted data are often users’ privacy data, such as medical data and grid data. We propose an instant encrypted transmission based security scheme for such scenarios in IoT. The analysis in this paper indicates that our scheme can guarantee the security of users’ data while ensuring rapid transmission and acquisition of instant IoT data.