bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Effect of Different Grips of Handsets on Data Rate in the Measured Channels
Authors: Rahimi Maryam , Foroozanfard Ehsan
Published: March 2015

The investigation on the achieved data rate of the cellular system considering different grips of handsets at different frequencies using measurement results of the measurement campaign—which was carried out in the city of Aalborg—is presented in this paper. The achieved data rate of the multiple-input single-output (MISO) interference channel is investigated. A typical propagation environment using two BSs and four handsets, like smart phones, held by four to eight different users was designed and multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) channels in different scenarios were measured. In this paper, two BSs and two handsets at each measurement time are considered. The impact of the different parameters like correlation, different grips of handsets, and different long term evolution (LTE) frequency bands on the achieved data rate is investigated for different measurements. It could be concluded that the variations in the values of data rate are weakly associated with the different grips of handsets but more correlated with different frequencies.
A Survey on Spectrum Utilization in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Luo Hongyao , Huang Zhichuan , Zhu Ting
Published: March 2015

In recent years, the industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) bands have been intensively shared with unlicensed wireless communications applications such as wireless sensor networks (WSNs). With flourishing popularity of sensor devices and increasing installation of wireless sensor nodes, the cross technology interference (CTI) has become a considerable real-world problem. Because of CTI, wireless devices suffer significant communication dilemma. Moreover, ISM band, as the main communication medium of WSN, should be reasonably utilized in an efficient and effective manner. Extensive approaches have been proposed to explore spectrum utilization in WSN. However, there is no such one, which systematically organizes these works. In this paper, we present a comprehensive survey on spectrum utilization in WSNs. To achieve this goal, We first illustrate the background of WSN and spectrum utilization. Our concern on CTI is then noted. Later we demonstrate the importance of efficient spectrum utilization. Eventually, through classification and summary of recent related works, we provide an essential structure of research in titled field and detailed intellectual merits of published works. Our survey covers more than 80 studies in the scope of spectrum utilization in WSN.
Laser Phototherapy Enhances Mesenchymal Stem Cells Survival in Response to the Dental Adhesives
Authors: Diniz Ivana Márcia Alves , Matos Adriana Bona , Marques Márcia Martins
Published: March 2015

Background. We investigated the influence of laser phototherapy (LPT) on the survival of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) submitted to substances leached from dental adhesives. Method. MSCs were isolated and characterized. Oral mucosa fibroblasts and osteoblast‐like cells were used as comparative controls. Cultured medium conditioned with two adhesive systems was applied to the cultures. Cell monolayers were exposed or not to LPT. Laser irradiations were performed using a red laser (GaAlAs, 780 nm, 0.04 cm2, 40 mW, 1 W/cm2, 0.4 J, 10 seconds, 1 point, 10 J/cm2). After 24 h, cell viability was assessed by the 3‐[4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl]‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide reduction assay. Data were statistically compared by ANOVA followed by Tukey’s test (P < 0.05). Results. Different cell types showed different viabilities in response to the same materials. Substances leached from adhesives were less cytotoxic to MSCs than to other cell types. Substances leached from Clearfil SE Bond were highly cytotoxic to all cell types tested, except to the MSCs when applied polymerized and in association with LPT. LPT was unable to significantly increase the cell viability of fibroblasts and osteoblast‐like cells submitted to the dental adhesives. Conclusion. LPT enhances mesenchymal stem cells survival in response to substances leached from dental adhesives.
Edge Detection in Digital Images Using Dispersive Phase Stretch Transform
Authors: Asghari Mohammad H. , Jalali Bahram
Published: March 2015

We describe a new computational approach to edge detection and its application to biomedical images. Our digital algorithm transforms the image by emulating the propagation of light through a physical medium with specific warped diffractive property. We show that the output phase of the transform reveals transitions in image intensity and can be used for edge detection.
The de la Vallée Poussin Mean and Polynomial Approximation for Exponential Weight
Authors: Itoh K. , Sakai R. , Suzuki N.
Published: March 2015

We study Lp boundedness of the de la Vallée Poussin means vn(f) for exponential weight w(x)=exp(-Q(x)) on R. Our main result is vn(f)(w/T1/4)Lp(R)≤C∥fw∥Lp(R), for every n∈N and every 1≤p≤∞, where T(x)=xQ′(x)/Q(x). As an application, we obtain limn→∞(f-vn(f))w/T1/4Lp(R)=0 for fw∈Lp(R).
A Collaborative Framework for Privacy Preserving Fuzzy Co-Clustering of Vertically Distributed Cooccurrence Matrices
Authors: Honda Katsuhiro , Oda Toshiya , Tanaka Daiji , Notsu Akira
Published: March 2015

In many real world data analysis tasks, it is expected that we can get much more useful knowledge by utilizing multiple databases stored in different organizations, such as cooperation groups, state organs, and allied countries. However, in many such organizations, they often hesitate to publish their databases because of privacy and security issues although they believe the advantages of collaborative analysis. This paper proposes a novel collaborative framework for utilizing vertically partitioned cooccurrence matrices in fuzzy co-cluster structure estimation, in which cooccurrence information among objects and items is separately stored in several sites. In order to utilize such distributed data sets without fear of information leaks, a privacy preserving procedure is introduced to fuzzy clustering for categorical multivariate data (FCCM). Withholding each element of cooccurrence matrices, only object memberships are shared by multiple sites and their (implicit) joint co-cluster structures are revealed through an iterative clustering process. Several experimental results demonstrate that collaborative analysis can contribute to revealing global intrinsic co-cluster structures of separate matrices rather than individual site-wise analysis. The novel framework makes it possible for many private and public organizations to share common data structural knowledge without fear of information leaks.
Tuning Rheological Performance of Silica Concentrated Shear Thickening Fluid by Using Graphene Oxide
Authors: Huang Wenchao , Wu Yanzhe , Qiu Ling , Dong Cunku , Ding Jie , Li Dan
Published: March 2015

The addition of a small amount of graphene oxide into a traditional colloidal silica-based shear thickening fluid (STF) can lead to a significant change in viscosity, critical shear rate, storage modulus, and loss modulus of STF. This finding provides an effective way to prepare stronger and light-weight STFs.
Carotid Sheath Abscess Caused by a Tooth Decay Infection on the Opposite Side
Authors: Tuncturk F. Ruya , Uzun Lokman , Kalcioglu M. Tayyar , Egilmez Oguz Kadir , Timurlenk Emine , Erguven Muferet
Published: March 2015

Deep neck infections are mortal diseases that need emergency treatment. It can occur at any age but usually in pediatric ages. In this report, a left cervical carotid space abscess of a pediatric patient was discussed. It was interesting that the only origin of the left carotid sheath abscess was right inferior first molar tooth decay. Right neck spaces were all clean. Patient had no immunosupression and also there were no congenital masses such as branchial cleft cysts, foreign bodies, or masses suspicious for malignancies in cervical ultrasound and MRI. We discussed this rare condition under the light of the literature.
Modeling and Optimization of Collaborative Passenger Control in Urban Rail Stations under Mass Passenger Flow
Authors: Wang Lili , Yan Xuedong , Wang Yun
Published: March 2015

With the rapid development of urban rail transit, the phenomenon of outburst passenger flows flocking to stations is occurring much more frequently. Passenger flow control is one of the main methods used to ensure passengers’ safety. While most previous studies have only focused on control measures inside the target station, ignoring the collaboration between stops, this paper puts emphasis on joint passenger control methods during the occurrence of large passenger flows. To provide a theoretic description for the problem under consideration, an integer programming model is built, based on the analysis of passenger delay and the processes by which passengers alight and board. Taking average passenger delay as the objective, the proposed model aims to disperse the pressure of oversaturated stations into others, achieving the optimal state for the entire line. The model is verified using a case study and the results show that restricted access measures taken collaboratively by stations produce less delay and faster evacuation. Finally, a sensitivity analysis is conducted, from which we find that the departure interval and maximum conveying capacity of the train affect passenger delay markedly in the process of passenger control and infer that control measures should be taken at stations near to the one experiencing an emergency.
Bifurcation of Traveling Wave Solutions for (2+1)-Dimensional Nonlinear Models Generated by the Jaulent-Miodek Hierarchy
Authors: Ran Yanping , Li Jing , Li Xin , Tian Zheng
Published: March 2015

Four (2+1)-dimensional nonlinear evolution equations, generated by the Jaulent-Miodek hierarchy, are investigated by the bifurcation method of planar dynamical systems. The bifurcation regions in different subsets of the parameters space are obtained. According to the different phase portraits in different regions, we obtain kink (antikink) wave solutions, solitary wave solutions, and periodic wave solutions for the third of these models by dynamical system method. Furthermore, the explicit exact expressions of these bounded traveling waves are obtained. All these wave solutions obtained are characterized by distinct physical structures.
Enhancing the Efficiency and Accuracy of MLFMA-PO Hybrid Method for Analyzing Electrically Large Objects
Authors: Ding Hao , Zhang Yong , Lin Hai
Published: March 2015

An enhanced hybrid technique combining the multilevel fast multipole algorithm (MLFMA) and the physical optics (PO) is presented for analyzing scattering and radiation by electrically large structures. Based on the previously proposed hybrid technique, an extra octree structure is built for the moment method (MoM) region to accelerate the solving process and an iteration scheme is proposed to further enhance the efficiency compared to the conventional hybrid method. What is more, the modified iterative physical optics (IPO) accelerated by MLFMA technique is adopted to improve the accuracy by simulating complex structures with strong reflections. Numerical results are given to demonstrate the improved accuracy and higher accuracy of the proposed hybrid technique compared to the previous MLFMA-PO method.
Hybrid Indoor Human Localization System for Addressing the Issue of RSS Variation in Fingerprinting
Authors: Bitew Mekuanint Agegnehu , Hsiao Rong-Shue , Lin Hsin-Piao , Lin Ding-Bing
Published: March 2015

Indoor localization is used in many applications like security, healthcare, location based services, and social networking. Fingerprinting-based methods are widely used for indoor localization. But received signal strength (RSS) variation due to device diversity and change of conditions in the localization environment (e.g., distribution of furniture, people presence and movement, and opening and closing of doors) induce a significant localization error. To overcome this, we propose a hybrid indoor localization system using radio frequency (RF) and pyroelectric infrared (PIR) sensors. Our localization system has two stages. In the first stage, the zone of the target person is identified by PIR sensors. In the second stage, we apply K-nearest neighbor ( K-NN) algorithm to the fingerprints within the zone identified and estimate position. Zone based processing of fingerprints will exclude deviated fingerprints because of RSS variation. We proposed two localization methods: Proposed_1 and Proposed_2 which use signal strength difference (SSD) and RSS, respectively. Simulation results show that the 0.8-meter accuracy of Proposed_1 achieves 84% and Proposed_2 achieves 65%, while traditional fingerprinting and SSD are 46% and 28%, respectively.
An Analytical Approach to Relay Access Delay in Multihop Relay Chain of VANETs
Authors: Li Dazhou , Zhao Hai
Published: March 2015

On the demand of many applications, vehicle to vehicle (V2V) communications have attracted many researchers’ attentions. In the developments of traffic safety applications based on VANET, the dissemination delay is critical. The dissemination delay of safety messages in the form of text has been studied thoroughly. In contrast, the dissemination delays of video or audio safety messages are just emerging and there are still a lot of things to be done. Considering the poor communication environment of multimedia safety messages dissemination in V2V, the analysis of multimedia message dissemination delay has great significance in the traffic safety applications. By extending and integrating previous achievements of analyzing MAC access delay in video stream dissemination, we proposed a method for modeling the relay access delay of IEEE 802.11p in the multihop relay chain of VANETs. Simulation results showed that the cumulative distribution function, the expectation, and the standard deviation of the relay access delays can be calculated effectively. In addition, the impacts of the number of hops and the length of packets on the relay access delays have been properly evaluated. Our study would open these research issues for discussion, which will contribute to the design and implementation of traffic safety.
Performance Analysis of SNR-Based HDAF M2M Cooperative Networks
Authors: Xu Lingwei , Zhang Hao , Gulliver T. Aaron
Published: March 2015

The lower bound on outage probability (OP) of mobile-to-mobile (M2M) cooperative networks overN-Nakagami fading channels is derived for SNR-based hybrid decode-amplify-forward (HDAF) relaying. The OP performance under different conditions is evaluated through numerical simulation to verify the accuracy of the analysis. These results show that the fading coefficient, number of cascaded components, relative geometric gain, and power-allocation are important parameters that influence this performance.
The Sensible Heat Flux in the Course of the Year at Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard: Characteristics of Eddy Covariance Data and Corresponding Model Results
Authors: Jocher Georg , Schulz Alexander , Ritter Christoph , Neuber Roland , Dethloff Klaus , Foken Thomas
Published: March 2015

In this paper we present one year of meteorological and flux measurements obtained near Ny-Ålesund, Spitsbergen. Fluxes are derived by the eddy covariance method and by a hydrodynamic model approach (HMA) as well. Both methods are compared and analyzed with respect to season and mean wind direction. Concerning the wind field we find a clear distinction between 3 prevailing regimes (which have influence on the flux behavior) mainly caused by the topography at the measurement site. Concerning the fluxes we find a good agreement between the HMA and the eddy covariance method in cases of turbulent mixing in summer but deviations at stable conditions, when the HMA almost always shows negative fluxes. Part of the deviation is based on a dependence of HMA fluxes on friction velocity and the influence of the molecular boundary layer. Moreover, the flagging system of the eddy covariance software package TK3 is briefly revised. A new quality criterion for the use of fluxes obtained by the eddy covariance method, which is based on integral turbulence characteristics, is proposed.
Assessment of Root Canal Enlargement Using Mtwo and BioRace Rotary Files
Authors: Cumbo Enzo , Russo Riccardo , Gallina Giuseppe
Published: March 2015

Objective. To evaluate root canal enlargement following mechanical shaping using 2 nickel titanium rotary systems. Material and Methods. Forty single‐rooted teeth were immersed in resin and sectioned perpendicular to the long axis at 4, 8, and 12 mm from the apex. Digital capture of sections was performed before and after canal instrumentation using Mtwo and BioRace instruments. The area increase of endodontic space was calculated by subtraction. Results. The use of both instruments has allowed the removal of great amounts of dentin from the canal walls, even when the endodontic morphology is characterized by awkwardness to reach recesses. Conclusions. Both procedures seem to be valid and no differences were found between Mtwo and BioRaCe considering the amount of dentin removed at different distances from the apex.
Photophysical and Electrochemical Studies of Multinuclear Complexes of Iron(II) with Acetate and Extended Conjugated N‐Donor Ligands
Authors: Abdullah Norbani , Mohd Said Suhana , Marlina Anita , Roslan Muhamad Faris , Azil Afiq , Nordin Abdul Rahman
Published: March 2015

A dimeric iron(II) complex, trans‐[Fe2(CH3COO)4(L1)2] (1), and a trinuclear iron(II) complex, [Fe3(CH3COO)4(H2O)4(L2)] (2), were studied as potential dye‐sensitised solar cell materials. The structures of both complexes were deduced by a combination of instrumental analyses and molecular modelling. Variable‐temperature magnetic susceptibility data suggested that 1 was made up of 56.8% high‐spin (HS) and 43.2% low‐spin (LS) Fe(II) atoms at 294 K and has a moderate antiferromagnetic interaction (J = −81.2 cm−1) between the two Fe(II) centres, while 2 was made up of 27.7% HS and 72.3% LS Fe(II) atoms at 300 K. The optical band gaps (Eo) for 1 were 1.9 eV (from absorption spectrum) and 2.2 eV (from fluorescence spectrum), electrochemical bandgap (Ee) was 0.83 eV, excited state lifetime (τ) was 0.67 ns, and formal redox potential (E′(FeIII/FeII)) was +0.63 V. The corresponding values for 2 were 3.5 eV (from absorption spectrum), 1.8 eV (from fluorescence spectrum), 0.69 eV, 2.8 ns, and +0.41 V.
Dissecting the Role of Curcumin in Tumour Growth and Angiogenesis in Mouse Model of Human Breast Cancer
Authors: Bimonte Sabrina , Barbieri Antonio , Palma Giuseppe , Rea Domenica , Luciano Antonio , D’Aiuto Massimiliano , Arra Claudio , Izzo Francesco
Published: March 2015

Breast cancer is considered the most common cancer for women worldwide and it is now the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among females in the world. Since breast cancer is highly resistant to chemotherapy, alternative anticancer strategies have been developed. In particular, many studies have demonstrated that curcumin, a derivative of turmeric, can be used as natural agent in treatment of some types of cancer by playing antiproliferative and antioxidant effects. In our study, we assessed the antitumor activities of curcumin in ER-negative human breast cancer cell line resistant to chemotherapy, MDA.MB231 byin vitroandin vivoexperiments.In vitrodata allowed us to demonstrate that curcumin played a role in regulation of proliferation and apoptosis in MDA.MB231 cells.In vivo, by generation of mouse model of breast cancer, we showed that treatment of curcumin inhibited tumor growth and angiogenesis. Specifically, we showed that curcumin is able to deregulate the expression of cyclin D1, PECAM-1, and p65, which are regulated by NF-κB. Our data demonstrated that curcumin could be used as an adjuvant agent to chemotherapy in treatment of triple negative breast cancer.
Effects of the Mitochondria‐Targeted Antioxidant Mitoquinone in Murine Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Huang Wei , Cash Nicole , Wen Li , Szatmary Peter , Mukherjee Rajarshi , Armstrong Jane , Chvanov Michael , Tepikin Alexei V. , Murphy Michael P. , Sutton Robert , Criddle David N.
Published: March 2015

Although oxidative stress has been strongly implicated in the development of acute pancreatitis (AP), antioxidant therapy in patients has so far been discouraging. The aim of this study was to assess potential protective effects of a mitochondria‐targeted antioxidant, MitoQ, in experimental AP using in vitro and in vivo approaches. MitoQ blocked H2O2‐induced intracellular ROS responses in murine pancreatic acinar cells, an action not shared by the control analogue dTPP. MitoQ did not reduce mitochondrial depolarisation induced by either cholecystokinin (CCK) or bile acid TLCS, and at 10 µM caused depolarisation per se. Both MitoQ and dTPP increased basal and CCK‐induced cell death in a plate‐reader assay. In a TLCS‐induced AP model MitoQ treatment was not protective. In AP induced by caerulein hyperstimulation (CER‐AP), MitoQ exerted mixed effects. Thus, partial amelioration of histopathology scores was observed, actions shared by dTPP, but without reduction of the biochemical markers pancreatic trypsin or serum amylase. Interestingly, lung myeloperoxidase and interleukin‐6 were concurrently increased by MitoQ in CER‐AP. MitoQ caused biphasic effects on ROS production in isolated polymorphonuclear leukocytes, inhibiting an acute increase but elevating later levels. Our results suggest that MitoQ would be inappropriate for AP therapy, consistent with prior antioxidant evaluations in this disease.
The Influence of Polymerization Type and Reinforcement Method on Flexural Strength of Acrylic Resin
Authors: Fonseca Rodrigo Borges , Kasuya Amanda Vessoni Barbosa , Favarão Isabella Negro , Naves Lucas Zago , Hoeppner Márcio Grama
Published: March 2015

The aim of this study was to evaluate the flexural strength of acrylic resin bars by varying the types of resin polymerization and reinforcement methods. Fourteen groups (N = 10) were created by the interaction of factors in study: type of resin (self‐cured (SC) or heat‐cured (HC)) and reinforcement method (industrialized glass fiber (Ind), unidirectional glass fiber (Uni), short glass fiber (Short), unidirectional and short glass fiber (Uni‐Short), thermoplastic resin fiber (Tpl), and steel wire (SW)). Reinforced bars (25 × 2 × 2 mm) were tested in flexural strength (0.5 mm/min) and examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Data (MPa) were submitted to factorial analysis, ANOVA, and Tukey and T‐student tests (a = 5%) showing significant interaction (P = 0.008), for SC: Uni , Uni‐Short , Ind , SW , Short , Tpl , Control SC (101.47 ± 19.79) d and for HC: Ind (268.93 ± 105.65) a, Uni (215.14 ± 67.60) ab, Short (198.44 ± 95.27) abc, Uni‐Short (189.56 ± 92.27) abc, Tpl (161.32 ± 62.51) cd, SW (106.69 ± 28.70) cd, and Control HC (93.39 ± 39.61) d. SEM analysis showed better fiber‐resin interaction for HC. Nonimpregnated fibers, irrespective of their length, tend to improve fracture strength of acrylics.
Small-World Optimization Algorithm and Its Application in a Sequencing Problem of Painted Body Storage in a Car Company
Authors: Zhipeng Tian , Xinyu Shao , Haiping Zhu , Hui Yin , Fei He
Published: March 2015

In the car company, the painted body storage (PBS) is set up between the paint shop and the assembly shop. It stores the vehicles in production and reorders the vehicles sequence. To improve production efficiency of assembly shop, a mathematical model is developed aiming at minimizing the consumption rate of options and the total overtime and idle time. As the PBS sequencing process contains upstream sequence inbound and downstream sequence outbound, this paper proposes an algorithm with two phases. In the first phase, the discrete small-world optimization algorithm (DSWOA) is applied to schedule the inbound sequence by employing the short-range nodes and the long-range nodes in order to realize the global searching. In the second phase, the heuristic algorithm is applied to schedule the outbound sequencing. The proposed model and algorithm are applied in an automobile enterprise. The results indicate that the two-phase algorithm is suitable for the PBS sequencing problem and the DSWOA has a better searching performance than GA in this problem. The sensitivity of model parameters is analyzed as well.
Long-Term Efficacy and Safety Outcomes of Transplantation of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Neurospheres with Bioabsorbable Nerve Conduits for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration in Mice
Authors: Uemura Takuya , Ikeda Mikinori , Takamatsu Kiyohito , Yokoi Takuya , Okada Mitsuhiro , Nakamura Hiroaki
Published: March 2015

The induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSc) offers great potential for cell-based therapy in regenerative medicine. We previously developed tissue-engineered bioabsorbable nerve conduits coated with iPSc-derived neurospheres for use in peripheral nerve repair. Here, we examine the long-term efficacy and safety of using nerve conduits with iPSc technology for peripheral nerve repair in mice. The nerve conduit consisted of an outer layer of a poly L-lactide mesh and an inner layer of porous sponge composed of 50% L-lactide and 50% ε-caprolactone. Secondary neurospheres were derived from mouse iPScs, resuspended and cultured within the conduit for 14 days. Conduits were implanted within surgically administered 5-mm defects in the left sciatic nerve of mice (iPSc group; n = 14). The defects in the control group (n = 13) were reconstructed using the nerve conduit alone. At 4, 8, 12, 24 and 48 weeks postsurgery, motor and sensory functional recovery in the iPSc group had improved significantly more than in the control group. At 24 and 48 weeks, histological analysis revealed axonal regeneration in the nerve conduits of both groups. However, axonal regeneration and myelination were significantly enhanced in the iPSc group. No teratomas were identified in the iPSc group at any time point. Therefore, we here demonstrate that bioabsorbable nerve conduits coated with iPSc-derived neurospheres promote enhanced regeneration of peripheral nerves and functional recovery without teratoma formation in the long term. This combination of iPSc technology and bioabsorbable nerve conduits has the potential to be a safe future tool for the treatment of peripheral nerve defects.
Spot Check Analysis of Gas Exchange: Invasive versus Noninvasive Methods
Authors: Ekkernkamp Emelie , Welte Lena , Schmoor Claudia , Huttmann Sophie Emilia , Dreher Michael , Windisch Wolfram , Storre Jan Hendrik
Published: March 2015

Background: Correct measurement of PO2 and PCO2 is essential to establish appropriate therapy such as long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) in patients suffering from respiratory failure. Objectives: We aimed to compare common invasive and noninvasive methods for assessing blood gas components for spot check analysis. Methods: Arterial (PaO2, PaCO2) and capillary blood gas (PCBGO2, PCBGCO2) measurements were taken consecutively in a randomized order and were compared with noninvasive measurements obtained from the transcutaneous monitoring of PO2 and PCO2 (PtcO2, PtcCO2, sensor-temperature 44°C). Capillary samples were taken from both arterialized earlobes, where samples of right earlobes were defined as a reference value. Pain assessment of all measurements was evaluated by each subject using the 100-mm visual analogue scale. Results: 83 patients and 17 healthy subjects were included. The mean difference between PaO2 and PtcO2 was 11.9 ± 15.0 mm Hg, with lower limits of agreement (LLA) of -17.4 mm Hg (95% confidence interval (CI) -22.5 to -12.3 mm Hg), and upper limits of agreement (ULA) of 41.1 mm Hg (95% CI 36.0-46.2 mm Hg). The comparison of PaO2 with PCBGO2 showed a mean difference of 5.6 ± 7.2 mm Hg (LLA -11.0; ULA 19.6 mm Hg). The mean difference between PaCO2 and PtcCO2 was 1.1 ± 4.9 mm Hg (LLA -8.6; ULA 10.8 mm Hg) and that between PaCO2 and PCBGCO2 was 0.7 ± 2.0 mm Hg (LLA -3.3; ULA 4.8 mm Hg). The analysis of capillary blood gases (36.2 ± 22.3 mm) was rated as more painful than the analysis of arterial blood gases (26.1 ± 20.6 mm), while transcutaneous measurement was rated as the least painful method (1.9 ± 7.4 mm; all p < 0.0001). Conclusions: The comparison of different methods for blood gas measurements showed substantial differences between capillary and arterial PO2 and between transcutaneous and arterial PO2. Therefore, arterial PO2 analysis is the essential method evaluating indication for LTOT. Nevertheless, comparative analysis further indicated capillary PCO2 as an adequate surrogate for arterial PCO2.
Effect of Salt Intake and Potassium Supplementation on Urinary Renalase and Serum Dopamine Levels in Chinese Adults
Authors: Wang Yang , Wang Dan , Chu Chao , Mu Jian-Jun , Wang Man , Liu Fu-Qiang , Xie Bing-Qing , Yang Fan , Dong Zhen-Zhen , Yuan Zu-Yi
Published: March 2015

Objective: The aim of our study was to assess the effects of altered salt and potassium intake on urinary renalase and serum dopamine levels in humans. Methods: Forty-two subjects (28-65 years of age) were selected from a rural community of northern China. All subjects were sequentially maintained on a low-salt diet for 7 days (3.0 g/day of NaCl), a high-salt diet for an additional 7 days (18.0 g/day of NaCl), and a high-salt diet with potassium supplementation for a final 7 days (18.0 g/day of NaCl + 4.5 g/day of KCl). Results: Urinary renalase excretions were significantly higher during the high-salt diet intervention than during the low-salt diet. During high-potassium intake, urinary renalase excretions were not signiﬁcantly different from the high-salt diet, whereas they were significantly higher than the low-salt levels. Serum dopamine levels exhibited similar trends across the interventions. Additionally, a significant positive relationship was observed between the urine renalase and serum dopamine among the different dietary interventions. Also, 24-hour urinary sodium excretion positively correlated with urine renalase and serum dopamine in the whole population. Conclusions: The present study indicates that dietary salt intake and potassium supplementation increase urinary renalase and serum dopamine levels in Chinese subjects.
Involvement of Bim in Photofrin-Mediated Photodynamically Induced Apoptosis
Authors: Wang Xianwang , He Xiaobing , Hu Shujuan , Sun Anbang , Lu Chengbiao
Published: March 2015

Background/Aims: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising noninvasive technique, which has been successfully applied to the treatment of human cancers. Studies have shown that the Bcl-2 family proteins play important roles in PDT-induced apoptosis. However, whether Bcl-2-interacting mediator of cell death (Bim) is involved in photodynamic treatment remains unknown. In this study, we attempt to determine the effect of Bim on Photofrin photodynamic treatment (PPT)-induced apoptosis in human lung adenocarcinoma ASTC-a-1 cells. Methods: The translocation of Bim/Bax of the cells were monitored by laser confocal scanning microscope. The levels of Bim protein and activated caspase-3 in cells were detected by western blot assay. Caspase-3 activities were measured by Caspase-3 Fluorogenic Substrate (Ac-DEVD-AFC) analysis. The induction of apoptosis was detected by Hoechst 33258 and PI staining as well as flow cytometry analysis. The effect of Bim on PPT-induced apoptosis was determined by RNAi. Results: BimL translocated to mitochondria in response to PPT, similar to the downstream pro-apoptotic protein Bax activation. PPT increased the level of Bim and activated caspase-3 in cells and that knockdown of Bim by RNAi significantly protected against caspase-3 activity. PPT-induced apoptosis were suppressed in cells transfected with shRNA-Bim. Conclusion: We demonstrated the involvement of Bim in PPT-induced apoptosis in human ASTC-a-1 lung adenocarcinoma cells and suggested that enhancing Bim activity might be a potential strategy for treating human cancers.
Enhancement of LPS-Induced Microglial Inflammation Response via TLR4 Under High Glucose Conditions
Authors: Zhang Xiang , Dong Hongquan , Zhang Susu , Lu Shunmei , Sun Jie , Qian Yanning
Published: March 2015

Background: Microglia activation mediated by toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) plays an important role in neuroinflammation and postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD). Diabetes mellitus (DM) has been recently suggested as an independent risk factor for POCD. In this study, we investigate the potential exacerbation of the inflammatory response in primary microglia due to high glucose conditions. Methods: Primary microglial cells were exposed to normal glucose (25 mmol/L) and high glucose (35 mmol/L) levels alone or with lipopolyscaccharide (LPS 0, 2, 5, 10 ng/mL). The pro-inflammatory response of the cells was assessed by measuring changes in cytokine levels and the evaluation of associated signaling pathways. Results: Neither high glucose nor low LPS (≤5ng/ml) alone had an effect on TNF-a and IL-6 levels, but the combination of low LPS and high glucose stimulated the inflammatory response. Analyses of the associated signaling pathways demonstrated that high glucose enhanced the LPS-induced microglial activation via the TLR4/JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that high glucose, one of the key abnormalities characteristic of DM, can augment LPS-induced microglial activation and inflammatory cytokine levels through the TLR4/JAK2/STAT3 pathway, offering new insight into the pathophysiological relationship between DM and POCD.
Stroke-Like Presentation of Cerebral Toxoplasmosis: Two HIV-Infected Cases
Authors: Philip-Ephraim Ekanem E. , Charidimou Andreas , Williams Effiong , Kajogbola Gbenga
Published: March 2015

Toxoplasmosis is the most common opportunistic infection of the central nervous system in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Clinical presentation of cerebral toxoplasmosis in these patients includes headache, focal neurological deficits and seizures. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate therapy results in rapid clinical and radiological improvement as well as good outcome for patients. In this article, we report two cases with stroke-like presentation of cerebral toxoplasmosis in the setting of HIV infection.
Underlying Mechanisms for Coexisting Central and Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Nocturnal PaCO2 and Poor Sleep Quality Are Key Issues
Authors: Contal Olivier , Pépin Jean Louis , Borel Jean Christian , Espa Fabrice , Perrig Stephen , Lücker Lise-Margrit , Adler Dan , Janssens Jean-Paul , Lador Frederic
Published: March 2015

Coexisting central and obstructive sleep apnea is a challenging clinical situation. We report a case exhibiting an overnight shift from obstructive to central events. The central sleep apnea component was related to sleep instability, hyperventilation and low nocturnal PaCO2. Both types of respiratory events were successfully treated with adaptive servoventilation.
Response to Disodium Etidronate Treatment in Three Siblings with Pulmonary Alveolar Microlithiasis
Authors: Cakir Erkan , Gedik Ahmet Hakan , Özdemir Ali , Buyukpınarbasili Nur , Bilgin Mehmet , Ozgen Ilker Tolga
Published: March 2015

Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) is a rare chronic genetic lung disease in childhood with no proven therapy. It is characterized by the deposition of calcium phosphate microliths within the alveolar air spaces. The effect of disodium etidronate (DE) treatment on PAM is controversial. We report 3 siblings (an 11-year-old boy and 4-year-old twin girls) with PAM diagnosed by chest X-ray, thoracic high-resolution computed tomography, technetium-99m bone scan and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid findings. After the administration of DE (200 mg/day) for a 1-year period, 2 siblings showed radiological improvement, while 1 sibling did not. No drug side effects were observed within the treatment period.
Outpatient Hysteroscopic Polypectomy: Bipolar Energy System (Versapoint®) versus Mechanical Energy System (TRUCLEAR System®) - Preliminary Results
Authors: Rovira Pampalona Jennifer , Degollada Bastos Maria , Mancebo Moreno Gemma , Ratia Garcia Esther , Buron Pust Andrea , Mateu Pruñonosa Joan Carles , Guerra Garcia Angel , Carreras Collado Ramon , Bresco Torras Pere
Published: March 2015

Hypothesis: The new hysteroscopic system with mechanical energy is an effective outpatient technique for diagnosis and treatment that has certain advantages over conventional hysteroscopy in the management of endometrial polyps. Objectives: Our primary objective was to assess the total duration of hysteroscopy and polypectomy performed in an outpatient setting comparing the new mechanical energy hysteroscopy to the bipolar energy system. Our secondary objective was to compare the level of safety of both hysteroscopic techniques using the procedure success rate, the need for subsequent referral to surgery, existing complications, and comfort experienced by the patient during the procedure. Patients and Methods: This randomized controlled trial included the first 90 patients with an ultrasound diagnosis of endometrial polyp (>1 cm) who underwent an outpatient diagnostic and operative hysteroscopy at the Igualada Hospital (Barcelona) and agreed to be included in the study by signing an informed consent. Results: We obtained a 91% success rate with the TRUCLEAR System® compared to a 69% success rate with the Versapoint® system. Total operating time was 6.36 min in the TRUCLEAR System group versus 10.82 min in the Versapoint system group (p < 0.05), with a polypectomy time of 3.06 and 7.91 min, respectively (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the two techniques when analyzing pain using the visual analogue scale. No complications were recorded for either technique. Conclusion: The mechanical energy system presents a significant decrease in the total duration of polypectomy and hysteroscopy when performed both by experienced staff and by staff in training, resulting in higher success rates without complications with respect to conventional hysteroscopy with bipolar energy.
Further Thoughts on the Migdal Synagogue Stone
Authors: Bauckham Richard
Published: March 2015

This article builds on Mordechai Aviam’s pioneering interpretation of the Migdal synagogue stone, agreeing with him that all the symbolism refers to the Temple, while differing from him on some specific points of interpretation and developing the overall significance of the symbolism considerably further. It is argued that the four vertical sides of the stone depict the three different spaces of the Temple: the Holy of Holies, the Holy Place, and the courts. The stone as a whole is a representation of the Table of the Shewbread, with the twelve loaves representing the tribes differentiated according to the matriarchs. The stone symbolizes a cultic connexion between the synagogue and the Temple. It is unique evidence of the way Galilean Jews before 70 understood the synagogue and its activities.
Age affects escape behavior by the zebra-tailed lizard (Callisaurus draconoides) more strongly than in other lizards
Authors: Cooper William
Published: March 2015

Prey of different ages may exhibit differences in escape behavior, including flight initiation distance (FID – predator-prey distance when escape begins) and distance fled before stopping (DF). Escape theory predicts FID and, in some circumstance, DF, based on trade-offs between conflicting cost of not fleeing (predation risk) and cost of fleeing (primarily opportunities to enhance fitness lost by fleeing). The prey’s expected lifetime fitness when an encounter begins also affects escape decisions. Because hatchling and adult lizards may differ in ways that affect all three of these factors, a priori prediction of age differences is not possible without measurements of all three. In a field study I found that hatchling zebra-tailed lizards (Callisaurs draconoides) had much shorter FID and DF than adults. These relationships were not affected by distance to refuge, which did not differ between ages, and refuge use was infrequent. The findings agree with those of all but one previous study of age differences, suggesting that hatchling lizards typically have shorter FID and DF than adults because they 1) assess risk as being lower due to lower attractiveness to or detectability by predators, lack of experience or greater maneuverability, 2) have greater opportunity cost due to the need for rapid growth and good body condition before winter, and possibly 3) have lower residual reproductive value due to higher mortality rate than adults. Effects of age and size are confounded, and smaller size may be the major reason for the shorter FID and distance fled of hatchlings.
Phylogeography and morphological variation in a narrowly distributed Caucasian rock lizard, Darevskia mixta
Authors: Gabelaia Mariam , Gabelaia Mariam , Tarkhnishvili David , Gabelaia Mariam , Tarkhnishvili David , Murtskhvaladze Marine
Published: March 2015

The Caucasian rock lizard Darevskia mixta was sampled and studied from throughout its range, using mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences and scalation. The populations of the Greater and the Lesser Caucasus are reciprocally monophyletic matrilineally, and the respective lineages have been separated since the mid-Pleistocene. The lizards from the Greater Caucasus commonly have an unpaired preanal scale, whereas the lizards from the Lesser Caucasus have an additional scale behind the central temporal and subdivided interparietal scale more commonly than those from the Greater Caucasus. The Lesser Caucasus populations are further subdivided into two geographically distinct matrilineages, and are more diverse genetically and morphologically than the Greater Caucasus populations. The central part of the Lesser Caucasus is suggested to be the ancestral area for the entire D. mixta lineage. Successive Pleistocene periods of glaciation appear to be responsible both for the isolation of D. mixta from its common relatives, and for subdivision within D. mixta. Presence of D. mixta in NE Turkey is challenged.
Use of removal sampling to estimate abundance of larval salamanders (Salamandra salamandra) in streams
Authors: Schmidt Benedikt R. , Schmidt Benedikt R. , Gschwend Gabriela , Schmidt Benedikt R. , Gschwend Gabriela , Bachmann Jörg A. , Schmidt Benedikt R. , Gschwend Gabriela , Bachmann Jörg A. , Dermond Philip
Published: March 2015

In an era of ongoing biodiversity loss, there is a need for reliable methods that can be used to estimate population size and trends. Removal sampling can be used to estimate the abundance of a single population or of multiple spatially distinct populations of animals. Because multiple removal passes are made during a single visit to a population, it may be very efficient in terms of logistics. Here, we use removal sampling and hierarchical models to estimate the abundance of salamander (Salamandra salamandra) larvae in 15 first- and second-order streams. Detection was positively affected by sampling day, suggesting that observers improved their ability to detect salamander larvae. Abundance was positively affected by the number of pools in the streams. Overall, the removal sampling method performed well despite small sample size. Removal sampling may be a useful method for monitoring amphibians.
Recognition of familiarity on the basis of howls: a playback experiment in a captive group of wolves
Authors: Palacios V. , Font E. , Márquez R. , Carazo P.
Published: March 2015

Playback experiments were conducted with a pack of captive Iberian wolves. We used a habituation–discrimination paradigm to test wolves’ ability to discriminate howls based on: (1) artificial manipulation of acoustic parameters of howls and (2) the identity of howling individuals. Manipulations in fundamental frequency and frequency modulation within the natural range of intra-individual howl variation did not elicit dishabituation, while manipulation of modulation pattern did produce dishabituation. With respect to identity, across trials wolves habituated to unfamiliar howls by a familiar wolf (i.e., no direct contact, but previous exposure to howls by this wolf), but not to unfamiliar howls from unfamiliar wolves (i.e., no direct contact and no previous exposure to howls by these wolves). Modulation pattern seems to be an important bioacoustic feature for individual recognition. Overall, our results provide the first experimental evidence that wolves can discriminate individuals based on the acoustic structure of their howls.
Risk in a changing world: environmental cues drive anti-predator behaviour in lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) in the absence of predators
Authors: Wishingrad Van , Musgrove Annessa B. , Chivers Douglas P. , Ferrari Maud C.O.
Published: March 2015

Rapidly changing climates and habitats represent challenges faced by the majority of animal species on our planet, and are leading to rapid declines in global biodiversity. However, the degree to which behaviour is influenced by changing environmental cues is not well understood. Specifically, environmental cues that have been correlated with predator abundance or performance over evolutionary history may have significant effects on prey behaviour. In the present study, we investigated the role of water clarity on foraging activity in lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) in the absence of predators. Foraging activity was significantly higher during the night than the day and was higher in turbid environments versus clear environments, indicating that decreased turbidity alone, may in part drive anti-predator behaviour and constrain foraging activity. Future work exploring the interconnectedness of environmental cues and behavioural changes will help us better understand the many ways rapidly changing environments can influence behavioural ecological processes.
Dominance relationships in a group of domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris)
Authors: Trisko Rebecca K. , Smuts Barbara B.
Published: March 2015

We investigated the extent to which dominance relationships, as described for feral dogs and wolves, applied to a group of 24 neutered companion dogs at a dog daycare facility. Similar to other studies of dogs and wolves, we found significant linear dominance hierarchies based on highly unidirectional displays of submission and aggression. Submission was the most frequent, unidirectional and linear type of agonistic behaviour and, therefore, a better indicator of status than aggression or dominance displays. Aggression was low intensity, consisting mainly of ritualized threats with no physical contact, and conflicts involving physical contact were never injurious. Older dogs out-ranked younger dogs, but size was unrelated to dominance rank. Dominance relationships were more often expressed in same-sex dyads than between males and females. The coverage of dominance relationships in the daycare group was low compared to that reported for sexually intact dogs and wolves, which was probably a result of reduced competition due to neutering and other human influences. In many dyads dogs never exchanged agonistic behaviours, but bi-directional relationships were rare, and most dogs formed some dominance relationships with other dogs. Except for their low coverage, muzzle licks met the criteria for a formal display of submission. Our results suggest that dominance remains a robust component of domestic dog behaviour even when humans significantly reduce the potential for resource competition. The possible proximate benefits of dominance relationships for dogs are discussed.
Pure Soul in Unclean body: Some Remarks on Christian-Islamic Divergences
Authors: Konstantakopoulou Angeliki
Published: March 2015

In this paper we analyse, on a transcendental and material basis, religious admonitions and priorities pertaining to the soul’s purity and the body’s (un)cleanness as constituents of dominant or challenging world views and behavioural systems. They are approached as a complex and historically determined social topic rather than as a simply cultural one. Explanations are also attempted regarding the differing Christian and Islamic soul-body perceptions and the syncretistic practices in the late-medieval Balkans, when Christian (Hesychasm) and Islamic mystic versions were widely diffused. Finally, we trace the religious imprint of relevant corporeal stances in today societies.