bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ECG Beats Classification Using Mixture of Features
Authors: Das Manab Kumar , Ari Samit
Published: September 2014

Classification of electrocardiogram (ECG) signals plays an important role in clinical diagnosis of heart disease. This paper proposes the design of an efficient system for classification of the normal beat (N), ventricular ectopic beat (V), supraventricular ectopic beat (S), fusion beat (F), and unknown beat (Q) using a mixture of features. In this paper, two different feature extraction methods are proposed for classification of ECG beats: (i) S-transform based features along with temporal features and (ii) mixture of ST and WT based features along with temporal features. The extracted feature set is independently classified using multilayer perceptron neural network (MLPNN). The performances are evaluated on several normal and abnormal ECG signals from 44 recordings of the MIT-BIH arrhythmia database. In this work, the performances of three feature extraction techniques with MLP-NN classifier are compared using five classes of ECG beat recommended by AAMI (Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation) standards. The average sensitivity performances of the proposed feature extraction technique for N, S, F, V, and Q are 95.70%, 78.05%, 49.60%, 89.68%, and 33.89%, respectively. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed feature extraction techniques show better performances compared to other existing features extraction techniques.
Multi-Channel Packet-Analysis System Based on IEEE 802.15.4 Packet-Capturing Modules
Authors: Yoo Seong-eun , Chong Poh Kit , Bae Jeonghwan , Kim Tae-Soo , Kim Hiecheol , Yoo Joonhyuk
Published: September 2014

There have been increasing demands for research into multi-channel-based wireless sensor network protocols and applications to support requirements such as increased throughput and real-time or reliable transmission. Researchers or developers of these protocols and applications have to simultaneously analyze the exchanged packets for correctness of both their contents and message exchange timelines. However, if developers were to use multiple conventional single-channel packet sniffers for this purpose, debugging during development and the verification process becomes extremely tedious and difficult because of the need to check the correctness of the protocols over multiple channels individually. Therefore, we present a multi-channel packet-analysis system (MPAS) that helps in debugging and verification for multi-channel protocols or applications. Wireless packets are detected and timestamped by each sniffer module in the MPAS for each channel, and packets are preprocessed and transmitted to a GUI-based analyzer, which then parses the received packets and shows them in order. We present the design and implementation results of the MPAS and evaluate its performance by comparing it against a widely used packet sniffer.
Computational Model for the Neutronic Simulation of Pebble Bed Reactor’s Core Using MCNPX
Authors: Rosales J. , Muñoz A. , García C. , García L. , Brayner C. , Pérez J. , Abánades A.
Published: September 2014

Very high temperature reactor (VHTR) designs offer promising performance characteristics; they can provide sustainable energy, improved proliferation resistance, inherent safety, and high temperature heat supply. These designs also promise operation to high burnup and large margins to fuel failure with excellent fission product retention via the TRISO fuel design. The pebble bed reactor (PBR) is a design of gas cooled high temperature reactor, candidate for Generation IV of Nuclear Energy Systems. This paper describes the features of a detailed geometric computational model for PBR whole core analysis using the MCNPX code. The validation of the model was carried out using the HTR-10 benchmark. Results were compared with experimental data and calculations of other authors. In addition, sensitivity analysis of several parameters that could have influenced the results and the accuracy of model was made.
The Characteristics of Thrombin in Osteoarthritic Pathogenesis and Treatment
Authors: Chou Pei-Yu , Su Chen-Ming , Huang Chun-Yin , Tang Chih-Hsin
Published: September 2014

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a mechanical abnormality associated with degradation of joints. It is characterized by chronic, progressive degeneration of articular cartilage, abnormalities of bone, and synovial change. The most common symptom of OA is local inflammation resulting from exogenous stress or endogenous abnormal cytokines. Additionally, OA is associated with local and/or systemic activation of coagulation and anticoagulation pathways. Thrombin plays an important role in the stimulation of fibrin deposition and the proinflammatory processes in OA. Thrombin mediates hemostatic and inflammatory responses and guides the immune response to tissue damage. Thrombin activates intracellular signaling pathways by interacting with transmembrane domain G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), known as protease-activated receptors (PARs). In pathogenic mechanisms, PARs have been implicated in the development of acute and chronic inflammatory responses in OA. Therefore, discovery of thrombin signaling pathways would help us to understand the mechanism of OA pathogenesis and lead us to develop therapeutic drugs in the future.
Factors Associated with Larval Control Practices in a Dengue Outbreak Prone Area
Authors: Mohamad Mariam , Selamat Mohamad Ikhsan , Ismail Zaliha
Published: September 2014

In order to reduce the risk of dengue outbreak recurrence in a dengue outbreak prone area, the members of the community need to sustain certain behavior to prevent mosquito from breeding. Our study aims to identify the factors associated with larval control practices in this particular community. A cross-sectional study involves 322 respondents living in a dengue outbreak prone area who were interviewed using a pretested questionnaire. The level of knowledge aboutAedesmosquitoes, dengue transmission, its symptoms, and personal preventive measures ranges from fair to good. The level of attitude towards preventive measures was high. However, reported level of personal larval control practices was low (33.2%). Our multiple logistic regression analysis showed that only those with a good level of attitude towards personal preventive measure and frequent attendance to health campaigns were significantly associated with the good larval control practices. We conclude that, in a dengue outbreak prone area, having a good attitude towards preventive measures and frequent participation in health campaigns are important factors to sustain practices on larval control.
Microwave-Assisted Synthesis and Characterization of Certain Oximes, Hydrazones, and Olefins Derived fromβ-Keto Sulfones
Authors: Abdel-Aziz Hatem A. , Ghabbour Hazem A. , Bhat Mashooq A. , Fun Hoong-Kun
Published: September 2014

A new series ofβ-keto sulfone derivatives containing oximes4a–e, hydrazones5a, b, and chalcones7a–dwere prepared using microwave irradiation (MWI) by the reaction ofβ-keto sulfones3with hydroxyl amine, hydrazines, and aromatic aldehydes, respectively. The comparative study between microwave irradiation and conventional syntheses showed that MWI is effective in the synthesis of the title compounds through shortening of the reaction time and improvements in their yields. The structures of the synthesized compounds were established under the basis of their spectral data and X-ray single crystal analysis of compound5a. The crystal of5abelongs to triclinic space groupP-1, witha=5.7735   (2) Å,b=9.3224   (3) Å,c=13.1696   (5) Å,α=76.411   (1)°,β=89.571   (1)°,γ=79.9380   (9)°,Z=2,   V=677.97   (4) Å3,Dc=1.513 Mg m−3,μ=0.44 mm−1,F(000)=320,R=0.026, andwR=0.070for 2690 observed reflections withI>2σ(I).
Translating Building Information Modeling to Building Energy Modeling Using Model View Definition
Authors: Jeong WoonSeong , Kim Jong Bum , Clayton Mark J. , Haberl Jeff S. , Yan Wei
Published: September 2014

This paper presents a new approach to translate between Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Building Energy Modeling (BEM) that uses Modelica, an object-oriented declarative, equation-based simulation environment. The approach (BIM2BEM) has been developed using a data modeling method to enable seamless model translations of building geometry, materials, and topology. Using data modeling, we created a Model View Definition (MVD) consisting of a process model and a class diagram. The process model demonstrates object-mapping between BIM and Modelica-based BEM (ModelicaBEM) and facilitates the definition of required information during model translations. The class diagram represents the information and object relationships to produce a class package intermediate between the BIM and BEM. The implementation of the intermediate class package enables system interface (Revit2Modelica) development for automatic BIM data translation intoModelicaBEM. In order to demonstrate and validate our approach, simulation result comparisons have been conducted via three test cases using (1) the BIM-based Modelica models generated fromRevit2Modelicaand (2) BEM models manually created using LBNL Modelica Buildings library. Our implementation shows thatBIM2BEM(1) enables BIM models to be translated intoModelicaBEMmodels, (2) enables system interface development based on the MVD for thermal simulation, and (3) facilitates the reuse of original BIM data into building energy simulation without an import/export process.
Chronic Kidney Disease: Evolution of Healthcare Costs and Resource Consumption from Predialysis to Dialysis in Piedmont Region, Italy
Authors: Roggeri Daniela Paola , Roggeri Alessandro , Salomone Mario
Published: September 2014

This study aims at assessing the evolution in healthcare costs for chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients through the analysis of administrative databases of Piedmont region, Italy. This is a retrospective, observational study, for which patients undergoing at least one dialysis for CKD in the period of June 1, 2010–May 31, 2011 were selected. Two subpopulations were evaluated: patients incident-to-dialysis observed for the 12 months preceding dialysis entrance (PreD) and “established” dialysis patients (at least 120 dialyses/year) observed for 12 months (EstD). Overall, 1,059 PreD and 2,018 EstD patients were selected. The average yearly cost per PreD patient accounted for 11,123€ ± 15,095€ (75% hospitalizations, 17% drugs, and 8% diagnostic/therapeutic procedures). The average yearly cost per EstD patient accounted for 53,764€ ± 14,685€ (59% dialysis, 21% diagnostic/therapeutic procedures, 13% hospitalizations, and 6.7% drugs). Among EstD population, hemodialysis patients cost 56,049€ ± 13,473€ per year, whereas peritoneal dialysis patients cost 34,978€ ± 10,847€ per year. The significant difference in expenditure between predialysis and dialysis suggests that prevention, early diagnosis, and the consequent possible delay of dialysis entrance could lead to important savings for healthcare services, as well as a better global health status for patients.
The Importance of Autophagy Regulation in Breast Cancer Development and Treatment
Authors: Zarzynska Joanna Magdalena
Published: September 2014

Breast cancer (BC) is a potentially life-threatening malignant tumor that still causes high mortality among women. One of the mechanisms through which cancer development could be controlled is autophagy. This process exerts different effects during the stages of cancer initiation and progression due to the occurring superimposition of signaling pathways of autophagy and carcinogenesis. Chronic inhibition of autophagy or autophagy deficiency promotes cancer, due to instability of the genome and defective cell growth and as a result of cell stress. However, increased induction of autophagy can become a mechanism which allows tumor cells to survive the conditions of hypoxia, acidosis, or chemotherapy. Therefore, in the development of cancer, autophagy is regarded as a double-edged sword. Determination of the molecular mechanisms underlying autophagy regulation and its role in tumorigenesis is an essential component of modern anticancer strategies. Results of scientific studies show that inhibition of autophagy may enhance the effectiveness of currently used anticancer drugs and other therapies (like radiotherapy). However, in some cases, the promotion of autophagy can induce death and, hence, elimination of the cancer cells and reduction of tumor size. This review summarizes the current knowledge on autophagy regulation in BC and up-to-date anticancer strategies correlated with autophagy.
Characterization of Odorous Compounds (VOC and Carbonyl Compounds) in the Ambient Air of Yeosu and Gwangyang, Large Industrial Areas of South Korea
Authors: Seo Young-Kyo , Suvarapu Lakshmi Narayana , Baek Sung-Ok
Published: September 2014

Odorous compounds play an important role in air pollution in industrial areas and the residential areas surrounding them. This study measured the odorous volatile organic compounds (VOC) and carbonyl compounds at Yeosu and Gwangyang, two large industrial areas of South Korea, during four seasons of 2008-2009. Along with these two cities, the same odorous compounds were measured at Suncheon, which was selected as a control site. The concentrations of VOC and carbonyl compounds that were listed as odorous air pollutants by the Ministry of Environment of South Korea are discussed. Benzene and formaldehyde were included in the target analytes because of their carcinogenic nature. Most researchers only examined the concentration of odorous compounds in ambient air but the present study evaluated the odor intensity, which is a new parameter that will help better understand the precise odor perceived by people. This paper describes the seasonal variations and spatial distribution of the above-mentioned odorous compounds at the specified sites. Pearson correlation coefficients between the odorous compounds and other air pollutants, such as ozone, CO, SO2, NO2, and PM10, and meteorological conditions, such as temperature and wind speed, provide the source information of odorous VOC and carbonyl compounds.
Terminal Branch of Recurrent Human Laryngeal Nerve
Authors: Pascoal Andréa Aparecida Ferreira , Ruiz Fernandes Juliana , Ruiz Cristiane Regina , Person Osmar Clayton , Rios Nascimento Sergio Ricardo
Published: September 2014

The importance of the recurrent laryngeal nerve in surgery on the anterior region of the neck has motivated many published papers on critical points of its pathway, relationship with the inferior thyroid artery, penetration in the larynx, division outside the larynx, and branches communicating with the internal branch of the superior laryngeal nerve. We analyze the terminal branches of the recurrent laryngeal nerve and their distribution through the laryngeal muscles. 44 laryngeal nerves had been dissected. Most frequently, the recurrent laryngeal nerve presents a division below or at the level of the lower margin of the cricoid cartilage (outside the larynx). One of these branches forms the communication with the internal branch of the superior laryngeal nerve, and the other penetrates the laryngeal space. Above the lower margin of the cricoid cartilage, the inferior laryngeal nerve issues a variable number of branches to muscles (3 to 7): to the posterior cricoarytenoid muscle; to the oblique and transversal arytenoid muscles; and to the lateral cricoarytenoid muscle and the thyroarytenoid muscle.
Solving Nonstiff Higher-Order Ordinary Differential Equations Using 2-Point Block Method Directly
Authors: Mohd Ijam Hazizah , Suleiman Mohamed , Rasedee Ahmad Fadly Nurullah , Senu Norazak , Ahmadian Ali , Salahshour Soheil
Published: September 2014

We describe the development of a 2-point block backward difference method (2PBBD) for solving system of nonstiff higher-order ordinary differential equations (ODEs) directly. The method computes the approximate solutions at two points simultaneously within an equidistant block. The integration coefficients that are used in the method are obtained only once at the start of the integration. Numerical results are presented to compare the performances of the method developed with 1-point backward difference method (1PBD) and 2-point block divided difference method (2PBDD). The result indicated that, for finer step sizes, this method performs better than the other two methods, that is, 1PBD and 2PBDD.
Thermoeconomic Analysis and Multiobjective Optimization of a Solar Desalination Plant
Authors: Mokhtari Hamid , Bidi Mokhtar , Gholinejad Mahdi
Published: September 2014

A solar desalination plant consisting of solar parabolic collectors, steam generators, and MED unit was simulated technoeconomically and optimized using multiobjective genetic algorithm. A simulation code was developed using MATLAB language programming. Indirect steam generation using different thermal oils including THERMINOL VP1, THERMINOL66, and THERMINOL59 was also investigated. Objective function consisted of 17 essential parameters such as diameter of heat collector element, collector width, steam generator pinch, approach temperatures, and MED number of effects. Simulation results showed that THERMINOL VP1 had superior properties and produced more desalinated water than other heat transfer fluids. Performance of the plant was analyzed on four characteristic days of the year to show that multiobjective optimization technique can be used to obtain an optimized solution, in which the product flow rate increased, while total investment and O&M costs decreased compared to the base case.
Fall-Detection Algorithm Using 3-Axis Acceleration: Combination with Simple Threshold and Hidden Markov Model
Authors: Lim Dongha , Park Chulho , Kim Nam Ho , Kim Sang-Hoon , Yu Yun Seop
Published: September 2014

Falls are a serious medical and social problem among the elderly. This has led to the development of automatic fall-detection systems. To detect falls, a fall-detection algorithm that combines a simple threshold method and hidden Markov model (HMM) using 3-axis acceleration is proposed. To apply the proposed fall-detection algorithm and detect falls, a wearable fall-detection device has been designed and produced. Several fall-feature parameters of 3-axis acceleration are introduced and applied to a simple threshold method. Possible falls are chosen through the simple threshold and are applied to two types of HMM to distinguish between a fall and an activity of daily living (ADL). The results using the simple threshold, HMM, and combination of the simple method and HMM were compared and analyzed. The combination of the simple threshold method and HMM reduced the complexity of the hardware and the proposed algorithm exhibited higher accuracy than that of the simple threshold method.
Certain Admissible Classes of Multivalent Functions
Authors: Aouf M. K. , Srivastava H. M. , Seoudy T. M.
Published: September 2014

We investigate some applications of the differential subordination and the differential superordination of certain admissible classes of multivalent functions in the open unit disk U. Several differential sandwich-type results are also obtained.
Axillary Metaplastic Breast Carcinoma with Ipsilateral Pectoral Invasive Ductal Carcinoma: An Unusual Presentation
Authors: Zhang Lei , Comertpay Sabahattin , Shimizu David , DeMay Richard M. , Carbone Michele , Honda Stacey A. , Eaves Jodi M. Matsuura
Published: September 2014

We report a case of axillary metaplastic breast carcinoma (MBC) with triple negative (ER−/PR−/Her2−) phenotype, concurrent with multifocal invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) of ipsilateral pectoral breast (ER+/PR+/Her2−) in a 60-year-old woman. The two tumors demonstrate different morphology, immunophenotype, and opposite response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy of paclitaxol, adriamycin, and cyclophosphamide. Methylation analysis of human androgen receptor (HUMARA) on X-chromosome identified monoclonal pattern of X-chromosome inactivation in MBC and mosaic pattern in the IDC. Stem cell origin of MBC is suggested in this case. Clinicopathological features, imaging findings, biological markers, chemoradiation management, and prognosis of MBC are reviewed in comparison to invasive ductal carcinoma. Our case and literature review suggest that traditional chemotherapy applicable to IDC is less effective towards MBC. However, new chemotherapy protocols targeting stem cell and multimodality management of MBC are promising. Recognition of unusual presentation of MBC will help tailor therapy towards tumor with worse prognosis.
Perfect ALKemy: Optimizing the Use of ALK-Directed Therapies in Lung Cancer
Authors: Politi Katerina , Gettinger Scott
Published: September 2014

Mutations in ALK are a common mechanism of acquired resistance to small molecule ALK inhibitors in ALK-rearranged lung cancer. Different mutants exhibit differential sensitivity to ALK inhibitors. Matching the mutational profile of the tumor with the appropriate ALK inhibitor is likely to be important to maximize benefit for patients. Clin Cancer Res; 20(22); 5576–8. ©2014 AACR.
A Predictive Microsimulation Model to Estimate the Clinical Relevance of Reducing Alcohol Consumption in Alcohol Dependence
Authors: François Clément , Laramée Philippe , Rahhali Nora , Chalem Ylana , Aballéa Samuel , Millier Aurélie , Bineau Sébastien , Toumi Mondher , Rehm Jürgen
Published: September 2014

Background: Alcohol consumption is one of the most important factors for disease and disability in Europe. In clinical trials, nalmefene has resulted in a significant reduction in the number of heavy-drinking days (HDDs) per month and total alcohol consumption (TAC) among alcohol-dependent patients versus placebo. Methods: A microsimulation model was developed to estimate alcohol-attributable diseases and injuries in patients with alcohol dependence and to explore the clinical relevance of reducing alcohol consumption. Results: For all diseases and injuries considered, the number of events (inpatient episodes) increased with the number of HDDs and TAC per year. The model predicted that a reduction of 20 HDDs per year would result in 941 fewer alcohol-attributable events per 100,000 patients, while a reduction in intake of 3,000 g/year of pure alcohol (ethanol) would result in 1,325 fewer events per 100,000 patients. Conclusion: The potential gains of reducing consumption in alcohol-dependent patients were considerable.
Time Is Penumbra: Imaging, Selection and Outcome
Authors: Davis Stephen , Donnan Geoffrey A.
Published: September 2014

The foundation of modern therapy for ischaemic stroke involves reperfusion of the ischaemic penumbra and salvage of threatened but potentially viable brain tissue. Work on imaging of the penumbra and clinical trials using penumbral evaluation or selection have been a major focus of our collaborative work over several decades. We review the original description of the ischaemic penumbra, its measurement using a variety of imaging techniques, the duration of the penumbra and its potential salvage up to 48 h after stroke onset. The penumbra can now be accurately measured using automated thresholded techniques in real time with MRI or CT perfusion (CTP). Particular advances include more precise definitions of mismatch with validation of the measures for the ischaemic core and exclusion of benign oligaemia. While there has been greater trial experience with MRI perfusion/diffusion mismatch, CTP mismatch using a similar thresholded perfusion metric (Tmax 6 s) and relative blood flow (around 31%) to estimate the ischaemic core is generally more available and practicable in our experience. We review the completed clinical trials, which generally demonstrate the clinical benefits of acute reperfusion in penumbral patients, provided that large ischaemic cores are excluded. Our EPITHET trial was the first randomized controlled trial of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) versus placebo at delayed times to test the concept of penumbral selection. We showed that in patients with a penumbra receiving thrombolysis, there was substantially increased reperfusion. Major reperfusion times were associated with reduced growth of the ischaemic core and improved clinical outcomes. Our current trial programme involves the application of penumbral imaging to attempt to extend the time window for intravenous tPA and treat wake-up strokes, to test the benefits of endovascular therapy in patients who have already received tPA but still have both substantial penumbra and an occluded vessel, and, finally, to use penumbral imaging to define a responder population in a phase III trial testing intravenous tenecteplase versus tPA within the current 4.5-hour time window. We believe that confirmation of these trial hypotheses will substantiate the role of multimodal imaging of the penumbra as a routine part of acute stroke management.
Pregnancy-Associated Breast Cancer: Clinicopathological Characteristics of 20 Cases with a Focus on Identifiable Causes of Diagnostic Delay
Authors: Basaran Derman , Turgal Mert , Beksac Kemal , Ozyuncu Ozgur , Aran Omer , Beksac M. Sinan
Published: September 2014

Background: The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the clinicopathological characteristics of patients with pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC), with a special focus on diagnostic delays and the identifiable causes of diagnostic delays. Patients and methods: Clinicopathological data of patients treated for PABC between 2003 and 2012 at Hacettepe University Hospital was retrospectively reviewed. Results: 20 patients with PABC were included. The pathological examination revealed predominance of invasive ductal carcinoma (80%), grade III tumors (65%) and advanced-stage (III-IV) disease (75%). In 8 patients (40%), there was a diagnostic delay between occurrence of the presenting symptoms and the initiation of breast mass workup. For these 8 patients, the main identifiable causes of diagnostic delay were the attribution of disease-related symptoms to pregnancy or lactation in 5 (63%) and negligence of symptoms in 2 (25%). Conclusions: PABC mostly presents with advanced-stage disease, and there can be a substantial diagnostic delay before these patients receive treatment. Preconceptional, gestational and postpartum examination of women of reproductive age should include a thorough breast examination and should provide adequate information regarding the physiological changes in breast tissue and the possible pathological symptoms.
Left Ventricular Diameter and Risk Stratification for Sudden Cardiac Death
Authors: Narayanan Kumar , Reinier Kyndaron , Teodorescu Carmen , Uy‐Evanado Audrey , Aleong Ryan , Chugh Harpriya , Nichols Gregory A. , Gunson Karen , London Barry , Jui Jonathan , Chugh Sumeet S.
Published: September 2014

Background

Left ventricular (
LV
) diameter is routinely measured on the echocardiogram but has not been jointly evaluated with the ejection fraction (
EF
) for risk stratification of sudden cardiac death (
SCD
).

Methods and Results

From a large ongoing community‐based study of
SCD
(The Oregon Sudden Unexpected Death Study; population ≈1 million),
SCD
cases were compared with geographic controls.
LVEF
and
LV
diameter, measured using the
LV
internal dimension in diastole (categorized as
normal, mild, moderate
, or
severe
dilatation using American Society of Echocardiography definitions) were assessed from echocardiograms prior but unrelated to the
SCD
event. Cases (n=418; 69.5±13.8 years), compared with controls (n=329; 67.7±11.9 years), more commonly had severe
LV
dysfunction (
EF
≤35%; 30.5% versus 18.8%;
P
<0.01) and larger
LV
diameter (52.2±10.5 mm versus 49.7±7.9 mm;
P
<0.01). Moderate or severe
LV
dilatation (16.3% versus 8.2%;
P
=0.001) and severe
LV
dilatation (8.1% versus 2.1%;
P
<0.001) were significantly more frequent in cases. In multivariable analysis, severe
LV
dilatation was an independent predictor of
SCD
(odds ratio 2.5 [95%
CI
1.03 to 5.9];
P
=0.04). In addition, subjects with both
EF
≤35% and severe
LV
dilatation had higher odds for
SCD
compared with those with low
EF
only (odds ratio 3.8 [95%
CI
1.5 to 10.2] for both versus 1.7 [95%
CI
1.2 to 2.5] for low
EF
only), suggesting that severe
LV
dilatation additively increased
SCD
risk.

Conclusion

LV
diameter may contribute to risk stratification for
SCD
independent of the
LVEF
. This readily available echocardiographic measure warrants further prospective evaluation.
The History of Living Labor Power: A Discussion with Oskar Negt and Alexander Kluge
Authors: Knödler-Bunte Eberhard , Funke Hajo , Widmann Arno
Published: September 2014

Eberhard Knödler-Bunte: In Public Sphere and Experience one of the main pillars of your argument concerned the “block of real life.” You set out to identify those things that cannot be subsumed into the capitalist process, that resist or could resist it.
Prolonged larval development in the Critically Endangered Pehuenche’s frog Alsodes pehuenche: implications for conservation
Authors: Corbalán Valeria , Debandi Guillermo , Martínez Flavio , Úbeda Carmen
Published: September 2014

Overwintering is an anuran strategy to survive in cold-temperate climates. Those aquatic species that withstand harsh conditions and short growing seasons are candidates for having long larval periods. Prolonged larval development, which includes overwintering for more than two years, has been reported for North-American and Euro-Asiatic species, but this strategy has been poorly studied in the Southern Hemisphere. Alsodes pehuenche is an endemic frog from the high Andes mountains of Argentina and Chile, recently categorized as Endangered by the Asociación Herpetológica Argentina (AHA) and as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). We studied egg laying in this species and its larval development by marking tadpoles with elastomers. We found that eggs are laid in clumps at the beginning of summer. The larval cycle includes four winters, although a fifth winter should not be ruled out. This is the first study that demonstrates a long larval development (four winters) in South-American species and has important implications for conservation biology.
The distribution of the crested and marbled newt species (Amphibia: Salamandridae: Triturus) – an addition to the New Atlas of Amphibians and Reptiles of Europe
Authors: Wielstra Ben , Sillero Neftalí , Vörös Judit , Arntzen Jan W.
Published: September 2014

In the recently published New Atlas of Amphibians and Reptiles of Europe (Sillero et al., 2014a), the distribution of the newt genusTrituruswas not resolved at the level of the species. The main reason for this was the lack of high quality distribution data from in and around the parapatric contact zones between species, where interspecific hybridization occurs. We are working extensively onTriturusand the (particularly genetic) data we have accumulated allow us to map the individualTriturusspecies at the appropriate scale. We here provide a database composed of distribution data for the individual species, at generally high resolution, particularly from in and around contact zones. Based on this database we produce maps at the 50 × 50 km UTM grid resolution as used in the new atlas and highlight those grid cells in which more than oneTriturusspecies occurs.
The New Offshore Oil and Gas Installation Abandonment Wave and the International Rules on Removal and Dumping
Authors: Lyons Youna
Published: September 2014

With more than 7000 offshore platforms installed globally for hydrocarbon exploitation, the fate of the many platforms nearing the end of their 20–30-year commercial life becomes critical. New decommissioning regions include Southeast Asia and Western Africa, where most offshore oil- and gas-producing countries have not become parties to the 1972 London Convention against dumping nor to its 1996 Protocol. This article discusses the application of these international rules against dumping at sea to the disposal at sea of offshore platforms in these countries. It also explores the way in which relevant instruments of international law could combine to apply to the decommissioning of offshore platforms, including platforms that are light and located in shallow waters, and/or those covered by and/or supporting endangered species. Overall this article challenges the paradigm that full removal should be the primary solution to offshore decommissioning and proposes a case-by-case approach under the guiding principles of the law of the sea and international environmental law.
New Thoughts on the Social Forms of Ancient China (from the Zhou to Qing Dynasties)
Authors: Jinguang † Zhang
Published: September 2014

Abstract

The entire course of ancient Chinese history has centered on state power, which dominated and shaped the basic picture of social history. The key to Chinese state power has been the state ownership of land, and based on this we can divide the social forms of ancient China into four successive periods: the period of yishe 邑社時代 or village societies (Western Zhou Dynasty and the Spring and Autumn Period); the period of official communal system 官社時代 (Warring States Period to Qin Dynasty to the early Han Dynasty); the period of half official communal system 半官社時代 (Han to Tang Dynasty); and the period of state vs. individual peasants 國家個體小農時代 (Song to Qing Dynasty).
The Heavens are High and the Emperor is Near: An Imperial Power System that is Open to the People
Authors: Ge Lei
Published: September 2014

Abstract

When we say that “the Emperor is near,” we are referring not to his nearness to the officials below him but rather to the people. It has always been an indispensable element of the emperor’s authority that he is able to establish a clear relationship with the populace and allow them to directly feel his presence in their everyday lives—both materially and morally—and even more importantly, feel the emperor’s concern for the people on a regular basis. Fostering the people’s sense of coexistence with the emperor is essential to solidifying the emperor’s position and maintaining the emperor’s almost holy image. The development of the imperial power structure through the Qin and Han Dynasties can thus be seen as the continuous development of the relationship between the emperor and his subjects. The main agents in the imperial society can be defined as the emperor, his officials, and the people; it can not be limited simply to the political dynamics between the emperor and the officials. Through his autocratic rule, the emperor has the ability to build a personal, transcendent connection with the people. Imperial rule is by definition autocratic, but the entire imperial power structure necessarily includes the people and his personal relationship with them. By citing multiple historical examples, we can begin to see how the emperors established such personal relationships with the people and why they were important to his rule.
Measuring relative flower size in Anthurium (Araceae) as a continuous quantitative character
Authors: Pontes Tiago Arruda , Van Den Berg Cássio , Andrade Ivanilza Moreira de , Mayo Simon Joseph
Published: September 2014

Relative flower size (RFS) was studied quantitatively in natural populations of Anthurium erskinei (one population) and A. talmonii (two populations) to investigate its potential as a taxonomic descriptor. RFS is defined as the ratio of spadix diameter and transverse floral width in the same region of the spadix. Variation was examined within and between inflorescences, populations and species. Within a single spadix, RFS may vary significantly between basal and upper spadix zones but usually not between basal and middle zones. Within populations, RFS does not differ significantly between spadix zones. Log-transformed RFS values showed significant inter-population differences. In nested ANOVA, between-species variance accounted for >90% of total variance. In A. talmonii between-population within-species variance amounted to >78% of total variance (mean RFS values), and within-spadix-zone within-spadix variance accounted for >31% of total variance (individual values). Bootstrap sampling showed that five pairs of flower and spadix diameter measurements per spadix would provide an adequate estimate of mean RFS for each population. The study suggests that RFS can be a useful quantitative taxonomic floral character for comparing species and populations in the genus Anthurium.
Effect of Cilostazol Following Endovascular Intervention for Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Nanto Kiyonori , Iida Osamu , Takahara Mitsuyoshi , Soga Yoshimitsu , Suzuki Kenji , Hirano Keisuke , Kawasaki Daizo , Shintani Yoshiaki , Suematsu Nobuhiro , Yamaoka Terutoshi , Uematsu Masaaki
Published: September 2014

Efficacy of endovascular therapy (EVT) with nitinol stents for femoropopliteal (FP) lesions is limited by restenosis. Oral cilostazol reduces angiographic restenosis rate; however, treatment duration remains unclear. In a retrospective analysis of a multicenter database of 3471 consecutive limbs in 2737 patients (mean age: 72 ± 9 years; 61% diabetic; and 26% on regular dialysis) undergoing EVT for FP lesions between January 2004 and December 2011, we compared Kaplan-Meier estimated primary patency after EVT followed or not by cilostazol treatment. We used Cox hazard regression analysis to assess temporal association between cilostazol treatment and post-EVT restenosis. Five-year primary patency was higher in the cilostazol group than in the noncilostazol group (57% vs 47%, P < .0001). Cilostazol treatment was inversely associated with restenosis for the first 2 years following EVT ( P < .05); however, no significant association was observed thereafter. Cilostazol use therefore appears efficacious in preventing restenosis up to 2 years after EVT for FP lesions.
Insider Mediation as a Tool of Collaborative Security
Authors: Ropers Norbert
Published: September 2014

The international community has played an increasingly important role in the settlement and prevention of violent political conflicts in the last two decades. One of the key tools in this effort has been the provision of third party support mainly in the form of mediation by outside parties with some kind of impartiality or ‘multi-partiality’ for resolution of international as well as sub-national conflicts. In Asia, a continent with a high level of unresolved, frozen and latent conflicts, and where there is lack of effective regional infrastructures for conflict management and resolution, outside efforts been rather limited. Instead, the discourses on improving security have emphasized especially the contribution of actors inside the respective countries and also the importance of a culturally and politically sensitive ‘Asian approach’ to mediation. This observation is discussed with respect to three examples: ( a) ASEAN’s diplomatic and security culture; ( b) the role of the ‘national facilitators’ in Nepal; and ( c) a group of peace activists who have formed an ‘Insider Peace builders Platform’ to resolve the conflict in the deep south of Thailand. The examples demonstrate that there is a promising development of political and social activists who can play critical roles in the transformation of violent conflicts, but these efforts need to be more systematically broadened and deepened to create an effective infrastructure for peace support in the region.
Contesting Identity
Authors: H.M. Sanjeev Kumar
Published: September 2014

The interface between religion and politics has become strong in the wake of expansion of modernity in its contemporary form. This can be regarded as cultural globalization. To interpret this phenomenon, the demonization of Islam by the West led by the US has been taken as a key epistemological point. This article argues that this policy, framed as part of the American strategy in the global war on terrorism, has constituted a key component of the larger US agenda. One facet of this agenda is primarily related to America’s bid to perpetuate the institutional structure of the permanent war economy envisaged during the Cold War period. The structure consists of the vocational interests of the arms lobby and the hawkish politico-bureaucratic-strategic condominium in the US. To accomplish this goal, communism, the United States’ Cold War enemy, has been replaced by a new enemy, Islam, at the end of the Cold War. The events of 11 September 2001 brought all this to a full circle and facilitated the US to advance justifications for continuing the permanent war economy and to substantiate the transformation of the ideological conflict of the Cold War into a cultural conflict in the post-Cold War period. In this regard, the rise of US soft power, made possible by the pervasive impact of globalization, has helped defend America’s post-Cold War proposition regarding an emergent war culture and the portrayal of Islam as the Manichean other in this war.
The effects of child maltreatment on the developing brain
Authors: Glaser Danya
Published: September 2014

Lasting effects of child abuse and neglect are well recognised. Apart from physical effects resulting from injuries and neglect, the effects are on behaviour, emotional well-being, interpersonal relationships and cognitive functioning. These psychological aspects are now known to have their counterparts in brain structure, chemistry and function. The growing knowledge of brain development has shed new light on our understanding of the processes by which especially early abuse and neglect may have a profound effect on the child’s later adjustment. The brain undergoes its greatest growth and development in the first years of life, (with a second phase in adolescence). While the sequence of development within the brain is genetically determined, the nature of this development is determined to a considerable extent on the young child’s experiences. The absence of some experiences, such as extreme deprivation during sensitive periods of development may mean that certain functions will not develop. For most functions, the nature of experience will shape brain development. Negative experiences and certain ways of interaction will be incorporated into the brain’s connectivity. While learning and new experiences continue throughout life, and their effects continue to be incorporated into brain structure and functioning, previous patterns cannot be erased, only added on to and more slowly. As we know from our adult experiences, learning is far faster in childhood. A further aspect of child maltreatment which has a profound effect on brain development is the significant neurobiological stress which the young, maltreated, child experiences. It is interesting to learn that secure attachment organisation protects the developing brain from the worst effects of the stress response. The effects of the experiences interact with the child's genetic resilience or vulnerability.
Study on negative Poisson’s ratio of auxetic yarn under tension: Part 1 – Theoretical analysis
Authors: Du Zhaoqun , Zhou Ming , Liu Hongling , He Linge
Published: September 2014

The main content dealt with in the paper is to make a theoretical analysis of the contour diameter of auxetic yarn under tension, which expands transversely under axial tension. The auxetic yarn is designed by two components, that is, a core filament and a wrap filament. Compared with the wrap filament, the core filament is thicker, softer and much more extensible. In the initial status, the core filament is straight in the center of the auxetic yarn and the wrap filament wraps the core filament helically in a certain helical angle. Based on theoretical analysis, the formula of negative Poisson’s ratio of stretched auxetic yarn is obtained. It is found that the value of Poisson’s ratio is related to axial strain, helical angle and the diameter ratio of the core filament to the wrap filament. An applied example is presented to verify the Poisson’s ratio value-strain curve of auxetic yarn. In order to better investigate effects on negative Poisson’s ratio, the effect of different parameters of yarn, including mesh size, diameter ratio, tensile modulus and helical angle of the wrap filament, is investigated using finite element analysis based on ABAQUS software to analyze the negative Poisson’s ratio of auxetic yarn when stretched. It verified that yarn spun by two different components produced a negative Poisson’s ratio effect under tension and structure parameters of auxetic yarn significantly affected negative Poisson's ratio values. It is expected that this study could help us understanding the deformation mechanism of auxetic yarn under axial tension load.
Reversing the Ethical Perspective: What the Allegorical Interpretation of the Good Samaritan Parable Can Still Teach Us
Authors: Clark Patrick M.
Published: September 2014

The parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10 is often interpreted as an exhortation to broaden the boundaries of neighbor love. However, prominent patristic exegetes forego this emphasis in favor of an allegorical interpretation that construes the downtrodden man as a picture of fallen humanity and the Good Samaritan as Christ. By assimilating the identity of the outsider-Samaritan to that of Christ, this interpretation homogenizes the ethnic identities in play and thus seems to exempt the audience from confronting the concrete social boundaries of their own neighbor love. Does this homogenization thereby render the allegorical interpretation ethically inert? This article engages this question through a close examination of Augustine’s exegesis of the parable. It relates the ethnic relations emphasized in the parable itself with the divine–human relationship highlighted in Augustine’s allegorical adaptation. Calling upon insights from “care ethics,” I then argue that the acknowledgment of a transcendent other’s identification with humanity may in fact provide a better motivational foundation for ethically identifying with the outsider than mere exhortation alone.
The Ecumenical Vision of John A. Mackay
Authors: Moorhead James H.
Published: September 2014

Despite a religious background that he himself later called “completely parochial,” John Mackay matured into a Christian leader with a remarkably inclusive vision. “If it is to be truly ecumenical,” Mackay declared, “the Church must transcend every boundary … As the Church, it must rise above every human division.” To go beyond such boundaries, Mackay not only engaged in standard ecumenical ventures such as the YMCA and the World Council of Churches, he also raised his voice to protest social and political evils, whether found in Nazi Germany, the Communist Bloc, or the United States. Mackay also reached out to movements such as Pentecostalism, often ignored by many mid-twentieth century ecumenical Protestants. Beneath Mackay’s inclusiveness lay his faith in a Christ in whom all things ultimately cohere and who even now leads his people beyond existing boundaries toward the fulfillment of cosmic unity in Him.
Whose city? What politics? Contentious and non-contentious spaces on Colorado’s Front Range
Authors: Mitchell Don , Attoh Kafui , Staeheli Lynn
Published: September 2014

Drawing on research from Colorado’s Front Range (the Denver/Boulder metropolitan area), this paper examines the validity of the ‘post-political’ hypothesis for explaining contentiousness and non-contentiousness in urban space. Examining major urban redevelopment efforts in Denver and a controversy over homeless people sleeping in public space in Boulder, we suggest that the literature on post-politics too narrowly circumscribes the realm of political action and in so doing loses analytical force and risks misunderstanding the nature of political engagement in the city. By contrast, a less circumscribed, more supple definition of politics allows for a better understanding of how the question of ‘Whose City?’– who the city is for – is always up for grabs. The appearance of post-political consensus, when it occurs, is itself a political achievement, the making of a hegemony, not an explanation.