bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Features of 705Borrelia burgdorferiSeropositive Patients in an Endemic Area of Northern Italy
Authors: Stinco Giuseppe , Ruscio Maurizio , Bergamo Serena , Trotter Davide , Patrone Pasquale
Published: January 2014

Background. Lyme Borreliosis is a multisystemic infection caused by spirochetes ofBorrelia burgdorferi sensu latocomplex. The features of Lyme Borreliosis may differ in the various geographical areas, primarily between the manifestations found in America and those found in Europe and Asia.Objective. to describe the clinical features of Lyme Borreliosis in an endemic geographic area such as Friuli-Venezia Giulia in the Northeastern part of Italy.Methods. The medical records of patients resulted seropositive forBorrelia burgdorferihave been retrospectively recorded and analyzed.Results. Seven hundred and five patients met the inclusion criteria, 363 males and 342 females. Erythema migrans was the most common manifestation, detected in 437 patients. Other classical cutaneous manifestations included 58 cases of multiple erythema migrans, 7 lymphadenosis benigna cutis, and 18 acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans. The musculoskeletal system was involved in 511 patients. Four hundred and sixty patients presented a neurological involvement. Flu-like symptoms preceded or accompanied or were the only clinical feature in 119 patients.Comments. The manifestations of Lyme borreliosis recorded in this study are similar to the ones of other endemic areas in Europe, even if there are some peculiar features which are different from those reported in Northern Europe and in the USA.
Dynamic Principal Component Analysis with Nonoverlapping Moving Window and Its Applications to Epileptic EEG Classification
Authors: Xie Shengkun , Krishnan Sridhar
Published: January 2014

Classification of electroencephalography (EEG) is the most useful diagnostic and monitoring procedure for epilepsy study. A reliable algorithm that can be easily implemented is the key to this procedure. In this paper a novel signal feature extraction method based on dynamic principal component analysis and nonoverlapping moving window is proposed. Along with this new technique, two detection methods based on extracted sparse features are applied to deal with signal classification. The obtained results demonstrated that our proposed methodologies are able to differentiate EEGs from controls and interictal for epilepsy diagnosis and to separate EEGs from interictal and ictal for seizure detection. Our approach yields high classification accuracy for both single-channel short-term EEGs and multichannel long-term EEGs. The classification performance of the method is also compared with other state-of-the-art techniques on the same datasets and the effect of signal variability on the presented methods is also studied.
Effect of Repeated Thermal Shock on Mechanical Properties of ZrB2-SiC-BN Ceramic Composites
Authors: Li Gang , Chen Hongbo
Published: January 2014

ZrB2-20 vol.% SiC-10 vol.% h-BN (particles) ceramic composites (ZSB) were fabricated by hot pressing under inert gas protected. ZSB samples with mean size 75 × 55 × 40 mm3were heated using current heating method and then cooled down to low temperature by circulating water. ZSB samples repeatedly went through thermal shock with 10–50 times under various conditions, respectively. Diverse effects on residual strength of ZSB at different experiment conditions (temperatures, thermal shock times, and heating rates) were investigated. The test results indicated that the residual strength of specimen materials all reached the maximum while the temperature was 1600°C and thermal shock number was less than 50 times. Because ZSB samples could not stand the extremely serious hyperoxidation at very high temperature (1800°C), the residual strength of samples decreased sharply. At 1600°C, when the thermal shock times was 20, ZSB samples’ residual strength reached the maximum, but it decreased to the lowest point while the thermal shock times was 30. So we argued that the sensitive thermal shock number was 30. Finally, we analyzed the influences on samples residual strength generated by different heating rates at the same temperature and thermal shock number; the results showed that when heating rate was equal to cooling rate, the residual strength of specimen materials reached the maximum.
The Effect of Complementary and Alternative Medicine on Subfertile Women with In Vitro Fertilization
Authors: Zhang Yuehui , Fu Yiman , Han Fengjuan , Kuang Hongying , Hu Min , Wu Xiaoke
Published: January 2014

About 10–15% of couples have difficulty conceiving at some point in their reproductive lives and thus have to seek specialist fertility care. One of the most commonly used treatment options is in vitro fertilization (IVF) and its related expansions. Despite many recent technological advances, the average IVF live birth rate per single initiated cycle is still only 30%. Consequently, there is a need to find new therapies to promote the efficiency of the procedure. Many patients have turned to complementary and alternative medical (CAM) treatments as an adjuvant therapy to improve their chances of success when they undergo IVF treatment. At present, several CAM methods have been used in infertile couples with IVF, which has achieved obvious effects. However, biologically plausible mechanisms of the action of CAM for IVF have not been systematically reviewed. This review briefly summarizes the current progress of the impact of CAM on the outcomes of IVF and introduces the mechanisms.
Exchange Characteristics of Lead, Zinc, and Cadmium in Selected Tropical Soils
Authors: Bolanle-Ojo Tope O. , Joshua Abiodun D. , Agbo-Adediran Opeyemi A. , Ogundana Ademola S. , Aiyeyika Kayode A. , Ojo Adebisi P. , Ayodele Olubunmi O.
Published: January 2014

Conducting binary-exchange experiments is a common way to identify cationic preferences of exchangeable phases in soil. Cation exchange reactions and thermodynamic studies of Pb2+/Ca2+, Cd2+/Ca2+, and Zn2+/Ca2+were carried out on three surface (0–30 cm) soil samples from Adamawa and Niger States in Nigeria using the batch method. The physicochemical properties studies of the soils showed that the soils have neutral pH values, low organic matter contents, low exchangeable bases, and low effective cation exchange capacity (mean: 3.27 cmolc kg−1) but relatively high base saturations (≫50%) with an average of 75.9%. The amount of cations sorbed in all cases did not exceed the soils cation exchange capacity (CEC) values, except for Pb sorption in the entisol-AD2 and alfisol-AD3, where the CEC were exceeded at high Pb loading. Calculated selectivity coefficients were greater than unity across a wide range of exchanger phase composition, indicating a preference for these cations over Ca2+. TheKeqvalues obtained in this work were all positive, indicating that the exchange reactions were favoured and equally feasible. These values indicated that the Ca/soil systems were readily converted to the cation/soil system. The thermodynamic parameters calculated for the exchange of these cations were generally low, but values suggest spontaneous reactions.
Estimating Otter Numbers Using Spraints: Is It Possible?
Authors: Yoxon Paul , Yoxon Kirsty
Published: January 2014

Spraints have been used to survey otters in the UK since 1979 and a standard methodology has been set up which has been used in Britain and Europe for most survey work. At present data from these surveys is being used to give an estimation of actual population numbers. However, for this to be possible, there must be a correlation between sprainting numbers, active spraint sites, and otter numbers. This paper investigates whether such a correlation exists. There is evidence from previous work that there is seasonal variation in sprainting and this study confirms this. Therefore spraint surveys should be undertaken in the same months for each repeat survey.
Oral Rehabilitation of Parkinson’s Disease Patient: A Review and Case Report
Authors: Al-Omari Fouad A. , Al Moaleem Mohammed M. , Al-Qahtani Sulaiman S. , Al Garni Abdullah S. , Sadatullah Syed , Luqman Master
Published: January 2014

Parkinson’s disease is usually seen in adults in their middle and late ages. Most people with this disease are less likely to opt for dental treatments unless it is an acute condition. Tremors caused by Parkinson’s disease can make dental appointments, especially prolonged treatments, a challenge. The case presented here was successfully treated with an immediate denture for the partially edentulous maxillary and mandibular arches. Early morning brief appointments were given for the procedure. Patient was instructed to take the prescribed parkinsonism medications 60 to 90 minutes before the appointment to utilize the advantage of its peak response. Sympathetic and caring approach towards the patient was employed to reduce his anxiety during the procedures. Some modification of technics and materials was adopted to suit the special situation.
Optical Flow Inversion for Remote Sensing Image Dense Registration and Sensor′s Attitude Motion High‐Accurate Measurement
Authors: Wang Chong , You Zheng , Xing Fei , Zhao Borui , Li Bin , Zhang Gaofei , Tao Qingchang
Published: January 2014

It has been discovered that image motions and optical flows usually become much more nonlinear and anisotropic in space‐borne cameras with large field of view, especially when perturbations or jitters exist. The phenomenon arises from the fact that the attitude motion greatly affects the image of the three‐dimensional planet. In this paper, utilizing the characteristics, an optical flow inversion method is proposed to treat high‐accurate remote sensor attitude motion measurement. The principle of the new method is that angular velocities can be measured precisely by means of rebuilding some nonuniform optical flows. Firstly, to determine the relative displacements and deformations between the overlapped images captured by different detectors is the primary process of the method. A novel dense subpixel image registration approach is developed towards this goal. Based on that, optical flow can be rebuilt and high‐accurate attitude measurements are successfully fulfilled. In the experiment, a remote sensor and its original photographs are investigated, and the results validate that the method is highly reliable and highly accurate in a broad frequency band.
The Evidence for Nerve Repair in Obstetric Brachial Plexus Palsy Revisited
Authors: Pondaag Willem , Malessy Martijn J. A.
Published: January 2014

Strong scientific validation for nerve reconstructive surgery in infants with Obstetric Brachial Plexus Palsy is lacking, as no randomized trial comparing surgical reconstruction versus conservative treatment has been performed. A systematic review of the literature was performed to identify studies that compare nerve reconstruction to conservative treatment, including neurolysis. Nine papers were identified that directly compared the two treatment modalities. Eight of these were classified as level 4 evidence and one as level 5 evidence. All nine papers were evaluated in detail to describe strong and weak points in the methodology, and the outcomes from all studies were presented. Pooling of data was not possible due to differences in patient selection for surgery and outcome measures. The general consensus is that nerve reconstruction is indicated when the result of nerve surgery is assumedly better than the expected natural recovery, when spontaneous recovery is absent or severely delayed. The papers differed in methodology on how the cut-off point to select infants for nerve reconstructive surgical therapy should be determined. The justification for nerve reconstruction is further discussed.
Nonlinear Dynamics of a Nutrient-Plankton Model
Authors: Wang Yapei , Zhao Min , Dai Chuanjun , Pan Xinhong
Published: January 2014

We investigated a nonlinear model of the interaction between nutrients and plankton, which was addressed using a pair of reaction-advection-diffusion equations. Based on numerical analysis, we studied a model without diffusion and sinking terms, and we found that the phytoplankton density (a stable state) increased with the increase of nutrient density. We analyzed the model using a linear analysis technique and found that the sinking of phytoplankton could affect the system. If the sinking velocity exceeded a certain critical value, the stable state became unstable and the wavelength of phytoplankton increased with the increase of sinking velocity. Furthermore, band patterns were also produced by our model, which was affected by the diffusion and sinking of phytoplankton. Thus, the change in the diffusion and sinking of phytoplankton led to different spatial distributions of phytoplankton. All of these results are expected to be useful in the study of plankton dynamics in aquatic ecosystems.
Learning in General Games with Nature’s Moves
Authors: Leoni Patrick L.
Published: January 2014

This paper investigates simultaneous learning about both nature and others’ actions in repeated games and identifies a set of sufficient conditions for which Harsanyi’s doctrine holds. Players have a utility function over infinite histories that are continuous for the sup-norm topology. Nature’s drawing after any history may depend on any past actions. Provided that (1) every player maximizes her expected payoff against her own beliefs, (2) every player updates her beliefs in a Bayesian manner, (3) prior beliefs about both nature and other players’ strategies have a grain of truth, and (4) beliefs about nature are independent of actions chosen during the game, we construct a Nash equilibrium, that is, realization-equivalent to the actual plays, where Harsanyi’s doctrine holds. Those assumptions are shown to be tight.
Milwaukee Shoulder Syndrome
Authors: Nadarajah Channa Vasanth , Weichert Immo
Published: January 2014

Milwaukee shoulder syndrome (MSS) is a rare destructive, calcium phosphate crystalline arthropathy. It encompasses an effusion that is noninflammatory with numerous aggregates of calcium hydroxyapatite crystals in the synovial fluid, associated with rotator cuff defects. We describe a patient that presented with recurrent shoulder pain and swelling with characteristic radiographic changes and MSS was confirmed on aspiration of the synovial fluid.
Is Vestibular Neuritis an Immune Related Vestibular Neuropathy Inducing Vertigo?
Authors: Greco A. , Macri G. F. , Gallo A. , Fusconi M. , De Virgilio A. , Pagliuca G. , Marinelli C. , de Vincentiis M.
Published: January 2014

Objectives. To review the current knowledge of the aetiology of vestibular neuritis including viral infections, vascular occlusion, and immunomediated mechanisms and to discuss the pathogenesis with relevance to pharmacotherapy.Systematic Review Methodology. Relevant publications on the aetiology and treatment of vestibular neuritis from 1909 to 2013 were analysed.Results and Conclusions. Vestibular neuritis is the second most common cause of peripheral vestibular vertigo and is due to a sudden unilateral loss of vestibular function. Vestibular neuronitis is a disorder thought to represent the vestibular-nerve equivalent of sudden sensorineural hearing loss. Histopathological studies of patients who died from unrelated clinical problems have demonstrated degeneration of the superior vestibular nerve. The characteristic signs and symptoms include sudden and prolonged vertigo, the absence of auditory symptoms, and the absence of other neurological symptoms. The aetiology and pathogenesis of the condition remain unknown. Proposed theories of causation include viral infections, vascular occlusion, and immunomediated mechanisms. The management of vestibular neuritis involves symptomatic treatment with antivertiginous drugs, causal treatment with corticosteroids, and physical therapy. Antiviral agents did not improve the outcomes.
Integrated Positioning for Coal Mining Machinery in Enclosed Underground Mine Based on SINS/WSN
Authors: Fan Qigao , Li Wei , Hui Jing , Wu Lei , Yu Zhenzhong , Yan Wenxu , Zhou Lijuan
Published: January 2014

To realize dynamic positioning of the shearer, a new method based on SINS/WSN is studied in this paper. Firstly, the shearer movement model is built and running regularity of the shearer in coal mining face has been mastered. Secondly, as external calibration of SINS using GPS is infeasible in enclosed underground mine, WSN positioning strategy is proposed to eliminate accumulative error produced by SINS; then the corresponding coupling model is established. Finally, positioning performance is analyzed by simulation and experiment. Results show that attitude angle and position of the shearer can be real-timely tracked by integrated positioning strategy based on SINS/WSN, and positioning precision meet the demand of actual working condition.
Sclerokeratoplasty as the Therapy for Corneal Perforation due to Exposure and Neurotrophic Keratopathy
Authors: Rozycki Radoslaw , Nowak-Gospodarowicz Izabela , Bialas Dominika , Pawlik Rafal , Rekas Marek
Published: January 2014

A case report of exposure and neurotrophic keratopathy after acoustic neuroma surgery resulting in perforation if not managed appropriately and timely is presented. Sclerokeratoplasty on 360 degrees may be an effective treatment method of corneal perforation in complete anaesthetic cornea when the standard penetrating keratoplasty failed. At a 12-month follow-up, the patient is doing well. UCVA is 0.5, the IOP is normal, and the graft remains clear. Systemic immunosuppression is the main disadvantage of this method. Further investigation is needed to assess the effectiveness and safety of this method.
Optimization of Power Allocation for a Multibeam Satellite Communication System with Interbeam Interference
Authors: Wang Heng , Liu Aijun , Pan Xiaofei , Li Jiong
Published: January 2014

In multibeam satellite communication systems it is important to improve the utilization efficiency of the power resources, due to the scarcity of satellite power resources. The interbeam interference between the beams must be considered in the power allocation; therefore, it is important to optimize the power allocated to each beam in order to improve the total system performance. Initially the power allocation problem is formulated as a nonlinear optimization, considering a compromise between the maximization of total system capacity and the fairness of the power allocation amongst the beams. A dynamic power allocation algorithm based on duality theory is then proposed to obtain a locally optimal solution for the optimization problem. Compared with traditional power allocation algorithms, this proposed dynamic power allocation algorithm improves the fairness of the power allocation amongst the beams, and, in addition, the proposed algorithm also increases the total system capacity in certain scenarios.
Canaloplasty in Open-Angle Glaucoma Surgery: A Four-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Brusini Paolo
Published: January 2014

Canaloplasty is a new nonperforating surgical technique for open-angle glaucoma, in which a microcatheter is inserted within Schlemm’s canal for the entire 360 degrees. A 10-0 prolene suture, which is tied to the distal tip of the microcatheter, is then positioned and left tensioned in Schlemm’s canal, thus facilitating aqueous outflow through natural pathways. A small amount of viscoelastic agent is delivered in Schlemm’s canal while the catheter is withdrawn. The mid-term results are very promising. Based on our cohort of 214 patients, the percentages of eyes that obtained postoperative IOP≤21 mmHg,≤18 mmHg, and≤16 mmHg with or without medical therapy after 2 and 3 years were 88.7%, 73.7%, and 46.2% (2 years); 86.2%, 58.6%, and 37.9% (3 years), respectively. The most frequent complications observed included hyphema; descemet membrane detachment; IOP spikes; and hypotony. The advantages of canaloplasty over trabeculectomy include (1) no subconjunctival bleb; (2) no need for antimetabolites; (3) fewer postoperative complications; and (4) a simplified follow-up. The disadvantages include the following: (1) a long and rather steep surgical learning curve; (2) the need of specific instruments; (3) average postoperative IOP levels tend not to be very low; and (4) impossibility to perform the entire procedure in some cases.
Influence of Priming Duration on the Performance of Amaranths (Amaranthus cruentusL.) in Sokoto Semiarid Zone of Nigeria
Authors: Musa Mukhtar , Singh Ajit , Aliyu Lawal Aminu
Published: January 2014

Two field trials were conducted during the 2012 cropping season at the Fruits and Vegetable Teaching and Research Farm of the Department of Crop Science, Usman Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (located on latitude14∘N-15∘N and longitude4∘-5∘), to evaluate the effect of priming duration on the growth and yield of amaranth. Treatments consisted of four priming durations (2, 4, 6, and 8 hours) and control (where no priming was applied). The treatments were laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD) replicated three times for the germination test and randomized complete block design (RCBD) for the field trial. Data were collected on days to 50% germination, percentage germination, days to 50% emergence, and percentage emergence. Results revealed significant effect of priming duration on days to 50% germination, percentage germination, and days to 50% emergence. Soaking seeds for 2 hours reduced the number of days to 50% germination and emergence and also recorded higher germination. Thus, from the findings of this study, it could be concluded that priming amaranth seeds for 2 hours could be applied to enhance amaranth production.
DNA Methylation, Epigenetics, and Evolution in Vertebrates: Facts and Challenges
Authors: Varriale Annalisa
Published: January 2014

DNA methylation is a key epigenetic modification in the vertebrate genomes known to be involved in biological processes such as regulation of gene expression, DNA structure and control of transposable elements. Despite increasing knowledge about DNA methylation, we still lack a complete understanding of its specific functions and correlation with environment and gene expression in diverse organisms. To understand how global DNA methylation levels changed under environmental influence during vertebrate evolution, we analyzed its distribution pattern along the whole genome in mammals, reptiles and fishes showing that it is correlated with temperature, independently on phylogenetic inheritance. Other studies in mammals and plants have evidenced that environmental stimuli can promote epigenetic changes that, in turn, might generate localized changes in DNA sequence resulting in phenotypic effects. All these observations suggest that environment can affect the epigenome of vertebrates by generating hugely different methylation patterns that could, possibly, reflect in phenotypic differences. We are at the first steps towards the understanding of mechanisms that underlie the role of environment in molding the entire genome over evolutionary times. The next challenge will be to map similarities and differences of DNA methylation in vertebrates and to associate them with environmental adaptation and evolution.
Radiation Characteristics of 3D Resonant Cavity Antenna with Grid-Oscillator Integrated Inside
Authors: Haralambiev L. A. , Hristov H. D.
Published: January 2014

A three-dimensional (3D) rectangular cavity antenna with an aperture size of 80 mm×80 mm and a length of 16 mm, integrated with a four-MESFET transistor grid-oscillator, is designed and studied experimentally. It is found that the use of 3D antenna resonant cavity in case of small or medium gain microwave active cavity antenna leads to effective and stable power combining and radiation. The lack of lateral cavity diffraction and radiation helps in producing a directive gain of about 17 dB and radiation aperture efficiency bigger than 75% at a resonance frequency of 8.62 GHz. Good DC to RF oscillator efficiency of 26%, effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP) of 5.2 W, and SSB spectral power density of −82 dBc/Hz are found from the measured data. The 3D antenna cavity serves also as a strong metal container for the solid-state oscillator circuitry.
Cell Surface Proteomics Analysis Indicates a Neural Lineage Bias of Rat Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
Authors: Zhao Guiyun , Ji Huijiao , Wang Shihao , Gu Bin , Song Xiuli , Zhang Jiarong , Liu Yukan , Chen Liangbiao , Zhang Ming
Published: January 2014

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are one of the most intensively studied stem cell types with application aims. However, the molecular characterisation and the relationship between the molecular characterisation and functional properties of MSCs are largely unknown. In this study, we purified the surface proteins from rat bone marrow MSCs (rBMMSCs) and characterised their surface proteome by LC-MS/MS. Moreover, we comparatively analysed the data from this study with the surface proteomics data of mouse and human embryonic stem (ES) cells and human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs). The data showed that, in contrast to ES cells and human mesenchymal stromal cells, rBMMSCs possessed a surface proteomics pattern biased to neural and neural-endocrine lineages, indicating a neural/neural crest bias, and suggested a neural differentiation tendency of these cells. The different surface proteomics pattern between rBMMSCs and hMSCs also suggested that MSCs of different origin might possess a different lineage bias.
Treatment of Parturition-Induced Rupture of Pubic Symphysis after Spontaneous Vaginal Delivery
Authors: Gräf C. , Sellei R. M. , Schrading S. , Bauerschlag D. O.
Published: January 2014

Parturition-induced rupture of pubic symphysis is an uncommon but severe complication of delivery. Characteristic symptoms are an immediate onset of suprapubic and/or sacroiliac pain within the first 24 hours postpartum, often accompanied by an audible crack. Diagnosis can be confirmed by imaging including X-ray, Magnet Resonance Imaging (MRI), and ultrasound. However, there is no consensus on the optimal therapy. Conservative treatment is predominantly used. It has been reported that, in cases of extreme symphyseal rupture with pelvic instability or persisting pain after conservative therapy, operative treatment achieves a successful outcome. In this report, we present a case of a twenty-year-old primigravida who developed suprapubic pain after a nonoperative vaginal birth with shoulder dystocia. A rupture of pubic symphysis with a gap of 60 mm was confirmed by means of X-ray and MRI. Simultaneously, other pelvic joint injuries could be excluded. Operative treatment by an open reduction and internal plate fixation yielded excellent results.
Changes in Fertility Decline in Rwanda: A Decomposition Analysis
Authors: Rutayisire Pierre Claver , Hooimeijer Pieter , Broekhuis Annelet
Published: January 2014

After having stalled in the 1990s, fertility in Rwanda resumed its downward trajectory between 2005 and 2010. The total fertility rate declined from 6.1 to 4.6 and modern contraceptive use increased. However, it is unclear which determinants lay behind the previous stall and the recent strong drop in fertility. This paper contributes to an ongoing debate on the impact of social upheavals on fertility decline. We use a decomposition analysis, focusing on the change in characteristics and reproductive behaviour of women and their contributions to levels of fertility during 1992–2000 and 2000–2010. Results show that due to widowhood and separation the proportion of women who were married decreased between 1992 and 2000, but their fertility increased in the same period due to replacement fertility and an unmet need for family planning. After 2000, postponement of marriage and lower infant mortality contributed to lower fertility, but the most important effect is the overall lower fertility due not only to improved family planning provision but perhaps also to the sensitizing campaigns of the Rwandan government.
A Spatial Analysis of Serotine Bat (Eptesicus serotinus) Roost Location and Landscape Structure: A Case Study in Sussex, UK
Authors: Tink Michael , Burnside Niall G. , Waite Stephen
Published: January 2014

Roost location is a key factor affecting the survival and fitness of British bats. It has been suggested that a knowledge and understanding of the factors which may influence the selection of roost location are fundamental to conservation efforts. Our study aims to investigate the relationship betweenEptesicus serotinusroost location and landscape structure. The study is based in the Sussex region of South East England. The landscape characteristics of 97 roosts locations were compared against 100 random control locations. Habitat analysis was carried out at three distance bands and included an analysis of roost density. The results indicate thatE. serotinusis selective in locating roosts. The study demonstrates that there are significant differences between the landscape composition surrounding roost sites and the wider landscape. In particular,E. serotinusroost sites are found to be located in areas with a significantly higher cover of arable land and improved grassland. Kernel density analysis was successfully used as an additional method to the direct comparison of roost neighbourhood composition. Density analysis identified the location and characteristics of possible centres ofE. serotinusactivity. It is anticipated that the findings will enable the needs of bats to be considered in future landscape conservation initiatives and development policies.
Why Fish Oil Fails: A Comprehensive 21st Century Lipids-Based Physiologic Analysis
Authors: Peskin B. S.
Published: January 2014

The medical community suffered three significant fish oil failures/setbacks in 2013. Claims that fish oil’s EPA/DHA would stop the progression of heart disease were crushed when The Risk and Prevention Study Collaborative Group (Italy) released a conclusive negative finding regarding fish oil for those patients with high risk factors but no previous myocardial infarction. Fish oil failed in all measures of CVD prevention—both primary and secondary. Another major 2013 setback occurred when fish oil’s DHA was shown to significantly increase prostate cancer in men, in particular, high-grade prostate cancer, in the Selenium and Vitamin E Cancer Prevention Trial (SELECT) analysis by Brasky et al. Another monumental failure occurred in 2013 whereby fish oil’s EPA/DHA failed to improve macular degeneration. In 2010, fish oil’s EPA/DHA failed to help Alzheimer’s victims, even those with low DHA levels. These are by no means isolated failures. The promise of fish oil and its so-called active ingredients EPA / DHA fails time and time again in clinical trials. This lipids-based physiologic review will explain precisely why there should have never been expectation for success. This review will focus on underpublicized lipid science with a focus on physiology.
A Network Pharmacology Approach to Determine Active Compounds and Action Mechanisms of Ge‐Gen‐Qin‐Lian Decoction for Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Li Huiying , Zhao Linhua , Zhang Bo , Jiang Yuyu , Wang Xu , Guo Yun , Liu Hongxing , Li Shao , Tong Xiaolin
Published: January 2014

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) herbal formulae can be valuable therapeutic strategies and drug discovery resources. However, the active ingredients and action mechanisms of most TCM formulae remain unclear. Therefore, the identification of potent ingredients and their actions is a major challenge in TCM research. In this study, we used a network pharmacology approach we previously developed to help determine the potential antidiabetic ingredients from the traditional Ge‐Gen‐Qin‐Lian decoction (GGQLD) formula. We predicted the target profiles of all available GGQLD ingredients to infer the active ingredients by clustering the target profile of ingredients with FDA‐approved antidiabetic drugs. We also applied network target analysis to evaluate the links between herbal ingredients and pharmacological actions to help explain the action mechanisms of GGQLD. According to the predicted results, we confirmed that a novel antidiabetic ingredient from Puerariae Lobatae radix (Ge‐Gen), 4‐Hydroxymephenytoin, increased the insulin secretion in RIN‐5F cells and improved insulin resistance in 3T3‐L1 adipocytes. The network pharmacology strategy used here provided a powerful means for identifying bioactive ingredients and mechanisms of action for TCM herbal formulae, including Ge‐Gen‐Qin‐Lian decoction.
Invasive and Ultrasound Based Monitoring of the Intracranial Pressure in an Experimental Model of Epidural Hematoma Progressing towards Brain Tamponade on Rabbits
Authors: Kasapas Konstantinos , Diamantopoulou Angela , Pentilas Nicolaos , Papalois Apostolos , Douzinas Emmanuel , Kouraklis Gregorios , Slama Michel , Terkawi Abdullah Sulieman , Blaivas Michael , Sargsyan Ashot Ernest , Karakitsos Dimitrios
Published: January 2014

Introduction. An experimental epidural hematoma model was used to study the relation of ultrasound indices, namely, transcranial color-coded-Doppler (TCCD) derived pulsatility index (PI), optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD), and pupil constriction velocity (V) which was derived from a consensual sonographic pupillary light reflex (PLR) test with invasive intracranial pressure (ICP) measurements.Material and Methods. Twenty rabbits participated in the study. An intraparenchymal ICP catheter and a 5F Swan-Ganz catheter (SG) for the hematoma reproduction were used. We successively introduced 0.1 mL increments of autologous blood into the SG until the Cushing reaction occurred. Synchronous ICP and ultrasound measurements were performed accordingly.Results. A constant increase of PI and ONSD and a decrease ofVvalues were observed with increased ICP values. The relationship between the ultrasound variables and ICP was exponential; thus curved prediction equations of ICP were used. PI, ONSD, andVwere significantly correlated with ICP (r2=0.84±0.076,r2=0.62±0.119, andr2=0.78±0.09, resp. (allP<0.001)).Conclusion. Although statistically significant prediction models of ICP were derived from ultrasound indices, the exponential relationship between the parameters underpins that results should be interpreted with caution and in the current experimental context.
An Investigation into Soft Error Detection Efficiency at Operating System Level
Authors: Asghari Seyyed Amir , Kaynak Okyay , Taheri Hassan
Published: January 2014

Electronic equipment operating in harsh environments such as space is subjected to a range of threats. The most important of these is radiation that gives rise to permanent and transient errors on microelectronic components. The occurrence rate of transient errors is significantly more than permanent errors. The transient errors, or soft errors, emerge in two formats: control flow errors (CFEs) and data errors. Valuable research results have already appeared in literature at hardware and software levels for their alleviation. However, there is the basic assumption behind these works that the operating system is reliable and the focus is on other system levels. In this paper, we investigate the effects of soft errors on the operating system components and compare their vulnerability with that of application level components. Results show that soft errors in operating system components affect both operating system and application level components. Therefore, by providing endurance to operating system level components against soft errors, both operating system and application level components gain tolerance.
Preventive Effect ofZea maysL. (Purple Waxy Corn) on Experimental Diabetic Cataract
Authors: Thiraphatthanavong Paphaphat , Wattanathorn Jintanaporn , Muchimapura Supaporn , Thukham-mee Wipawee , Wannanon Panakaporn , Tong-un Terdthai , Suriharn Bhalang , Lertrat Kamol
Published: January 2014

Recently, substances possessing antioxidant can prevent cataractogenesis of diabetic cataract. Therefore, this study was carried out to determine the anticataract effect ofZea maysL. (purple waxy corn), a flavonoids rich plant, in experimental diabetic cataract. Enucleated rat lenses were incubated in artificial aqueous humor containing 55 mM glucose with various concentrations ofZea maysL. (purple waxy corn) ranging between 2, 10, and 50 mg/mL at room temperature for 72 h. At the end of the incubation period, the evaluation of lens opacification, MDA level, and the activities of SOD, CAT, GPx, and AR in lens were performed. The results showed that both medium and high doses of extract decreased lens opacity together with the decreased MDA level. In addition, medium dose of extract increased GPx activity while the high dose decreased AR activity. No other significant changes were observed. The purple waxy corn seeds extract is the potential candidate to protect against diabetic cataract. The mechanism of action may occur via the decreased oxidative stress and the suppression of AR. However, further research in vivo is still essential.
Link Prediction in Directed Network and Its Application in Microblog
Authors: Yu Yan , Wang Xinxin
Published: January 2014

Link prediction tries to infer the likelihood of the existence of a link between two nodes in a network. It has important theoretical and practical value. To date, many link prediction algorithms have been proposed. However, most of these studies assumed that links of network are undirected. In this paper, we focus on link prediction in directed networks. We provide an efficient and effective link prediction method, which consists of three steps as follows: (1) we locate the similar nodes of a target node; (2) we identify candidates that the similar nodes link to; and (3) we rank candidates using weighing schemes. We conduct experiments to evaluate the accuracy of our proposed method using real microblog data. The experimental results show that the proposed method is promising.
Macroscopic Expressions of Molecular Adiabatic Compressibility of Methyl and Ethyl Caprate under High Pressure and High Temperature
Authors: Shi Fuxi , Zhang Qin , Chen Jun , Karimi Hamid Reza
Published: January 2014

The molecular compressibility, which is a macroscopic quantity to reveal the microcompressibility by additivity of molecular constitutions, is considered as a fixed value for specific organic liquids. In this study, we introduced two calculated expressions of molecular adiabatic compressibility to demonstrate its pressure and temperature dependency. The first one was developed from Wada’s constant expression based on experimental data of density and sound velocity. Secondly, by introducing the 2D fitting expressions and their partial derivative of pressure and temperature, molecular compressibility dependency was analyzed further, and a 3D fitting expression was obtained from the calculated data of the first one. The third was derived with introducing the pressure and temperature correction factors based on analogy to Lennard-Jones potential function and energy equipartition theorem. In wide range of temperatures(293<T/K<393)and pressures(0.1<P/MPa<210), which represent the typical values used in dynamic injection process for diesel engines, the calculated results consistency of three formulas demonstrated their effectiveness with the maximum 0.5384% OARD; meanwhile, the dependency on pressure and temperature of molecular compressibility was certified.
Bovine Dermal Matrix as Coverage of Facial Nerve Grafts
Authors: Kappos E. A. , Engels P. E. , Wettstein R. , Schaefer D. J. , Kalbermatten D. F.
Published: January 2014

Introduction. Soft tissue defects over functional structures represent a challenge for the reconstructive surgeon. Often complex, reconstructive procedures are required. Occasionally, elderly or sick patients do not qualify for these extensive procedures.Case. We present the case of a 91-year-old lady with large hemifacial defect with exposed bone and nerves after tumor resection. We first performed radical resection including the fascia of the temporalis muscle and the frontal branch of the facial nerve. Due to the moribund elderly patient with a potentially high perioperative risk, we decided against flap reconstruction but to use bovine collagen/elastin matrix and split thickness skin graft.Results. No postoperative complications occurred and STSG and matrix healed uneventfully.Discussion. In selected cases, where complex reconstruction is not appropriate, this procedure can be a safe, easy, and fast alternative for covering soft tissue defects even on wound grounds containing nerve grafts.
Newcastle Disease in Local Chickens of Live Bird Markets and Households in Zamfara State, Nigeria
Authors: Jibril A. H. , Umoh J. U. , Kabir J. , Saidu L. , Magaji A. A. , Bello M. B. , Raji A. A.
Published: January 2014

Newcastle disease constitutes a major constraint to rural poultry production system in Nigeria. This study used serological method to estimate the level of circulating antibodies against ND in nonvaccinated village chickens, raised under traditional management system in Zamfara State, Nigeria. Competitive Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay was used to analyze 504 chicken sera for Newcastle disease virus antibodies from randomly selected households and live bird markets. Higher seroprevalence rate of Newcastle disease virus antibodies was detected in both household and live bird markets. Overall, seropositive rate was found to be 32.5% (164/504). About 35.8% (115/321) sero-positive rate was obtained from live bird markets while 26.8% (49/183) seropositive rate was found in households. Comparison was made between the sero prevalence of house hold and live bird markets as well as between sexes. Live bird markets show a statistically significant higher prevalence rate (P<0.05) when compared with chickens sampled from households (OR 1.53; 95% CI, 1.024–2.275). The prevalence of ND indicated the presence of the virus amongst the population, and hence there should be an improvement in the vaccine campaign against ND for rural poultry especially the use of thermostable vaccine to reduce the chances of vaccine failure.
Association ofHelicobacter pyloriInfection with Coronary Artery Disease: IsHelicobacter pyloria Risk Factor?
Authors: Vafaeimanesh Jamshid , Hejazi Seyyed Fakhroldin , Damanpak Vahid , Vahedian Mostafa , Sattari Mohammadamin , Seyyedmajidi Mohammadreza
Published: January 2014

Background.Helicobacter pylori(HP) infection is the most common infection in the world and coronary artery disease (CAD) is probably associated with it. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the association between HP infection and CAD in suspected patients referred for coronary angiography. The coronary angiography was performed using Judkins method and patients were assigned to participate in CAD positive (>50% luminal diameter stenosis) and negative groups. The serum HP IgG antibody was checked.Results. Positive and negative CAD groups consisted of 62 and 58 patients, respectively. HP was more prevalent among CAD+ patients, and with increasing the number of coronary arteries with stenosis, the HP seropositivity increased so that 76.3% of patients with multiple vessel diseases (MVD) and 70% of patients with single vessel diseases (SVD) were HP seropositive versus 50% in control group (P=0.006). Positive CAD was significantly associated with HDL level (P=0.01) and ESR level (P=0.006). Also, CAD+ patients had higher CRP levels than controls and it was statistically different between SVD group and controls (P<0.05).Conclusion.HP infection is more prevalent in CAD positive patients and, in case of proving causal relationship, it can be considered as a reversible risk factor for CAD.
Absence of Substantial Copy Number Differences in a Pair of Monozygotic Twins Discordant for Features of Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Laplana Marina , Royo José Luis , Aluja Anton , López Ricard , Heine-Sunyer Damiàn , Fibla Joan
Published: January 2014

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a highly heritable disease (~0.9) with a complex genetic etiology. It is initially characterized by altered cognitive ability which commonly includes impaired language and communication skills as well as fundamental deficits in social interaction. Despite the large amount of studies described so far, the high clinical diversity affecting the autism phenotype remains poorly explained. Recent studies suggest that rare genomic variations, in particular copy number variation (CNV), may account for a significant proportion of the genetic basis of ASD. The use of disease-discordant monozygotic twins represents a powerful strategy to identifyde novoand inherited CNV in the disorder. Here we present the results of a comparative genome hybridization (CGH) analysis with a pair of monozygotic twins affected of ASD with significant differences in their clinical manifestations that specially affect speech language impairment and communication skills. Array CGH was performed in three different tissues: blood, saliva, and hair follicle, in an attempt to identify germinal and somatic CNV regions that may explain these differences. Our results argue against a role of large CNV rearrangements as a molecular etiology of the observed differences. This forwards future research to explorede novopoint mutation and epigenomic alterations as potential explanations of the observed clinical differences.
Dental Erosion and Dentinal Sensitivity amongst Professional Wine Tasters in South East Queensland, Australia
Authors: George Roy , Chell Allison , Chen Belinda , Undery Rebecca , Ahmed Humza
Published: January 2014

Background/Aims. Professional wine tasters face a hidden occupational hazard due to the high acid content in wine. This study evaluates the self-perceived dentinal sensitivity and erosive effects of wine on the professional wine tasters of the Granite Belt and the Scenic Rim regions of South East Queensland, Australia.Methods. Seventy wineries were contacted and participants were surveyed about their professional wine tasting experience and oral health. Participants were also required to rate their tooth sensitivity prior to being examined for erosion using a modified Smith & Knight tooth wear index. The data were analysed using Mann WhitneyUtest and Spearman’s correlation test.Results. The results showed that most participants (25 males, 22–66 yrs), brushed twice a day; however, the majority did not floss daily and had limited knowledge of the erosive effect of wine. There was a direct correlation between years of wine tasting, age of participants, and the erosion index. Correlation was not observed between the participant’s sensitivity index and erosion index.Conclusion. The lack of significant experience of dentinal hypersensitivity amongst professional wine tasters should not prevent oral health practitioners from providing necessary counselling and undertaking preventive measures, as tooth wear can have serious long-term effect on oral health of an individual.
Efficient Detection of Occlusion prior to Robust Face Recognition
Authors: Min Rui , Hadid Abdenour , Dugelay Jean-Luc
Published: January 2014

While there has been an enormous amount of research on face recognition under pose/illumination/expression changes and image degradations, problems caused by occlusions attracted relatively less attention. Facial occlusions, due, for example, to sunglasses, hat/cap, scarf, and beard, can significantly deteriorate performances of face recognition systems in uncontrolled environments such as video surveillance. The goal of this paper is to explore face recognition in the presence of partial occlusions, with emphasis on real-world scenarios (e.g., sunglasses and scarf). In this paper, we propose an efficient approach which consists of first analysing the presence of potential occlusion on a face and then conducting face recognition on the nonoccluded facial regions based on selective local Gabor binary patterns. Experiments demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms the state-of-the-art works including KLD-LGBPHS, S-LNMF, OA-LBP, and RSC. Furthermore, performances of the proposed approach are evaluated under illumination and extreme facial expression changes provide also significant results.