bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Nonsubsampled Contourlet Transform Based Statistical Medical Image Fusion Using Generalized Gaussian Density
Authors: Yang Guocheng , Li Meiling , Chen Leiting , Yu Jie
Published: October 2015

We propose a novel medical image fusion scheme based on the statistical dependencies between coefficients in the nonsubsampled contourlet transform (NSCT) domain, in which the probability density function of the NSCT coefficients is concisely fitted using generalized Gaussian density (GGD), as well as the similarity measurement of two subbands is accurately computed by Jensen-Shannon divergence of two GGDs. To preserve more useful information from source images, the new fusion rules are developed to combine the subbands with the varied frequencies. That is, the low frequency subbands are fused by utilizing two activity measures based on the regional standard deviation and Shannon entropy and the high frequency subbands are merged together via weight maps which are determined by the saliency values of pixels. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method significantly outperforms the conventional NSCT based medical image fusion approaches in both visual perception and evaluation indices.
Short Duration Combined Mild Hypothermia Improves Resuscitation Outcomes in a Porcine Model of Prolonged Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Yu Tao , Yang Zhengfei , Li Heng , Ding Youde , Huang Zitong , Li Yongqin
Published: October 2015

Objective.In this study, our aim was to investigate the effects of combined hypothermia with short duration maintenance on the resuscitation outcomes in a porcine model of ventricular fibrillation (VF).Methods.Fourteen porcine models were electrically induced with VF and untreated for 11 mins. All animals were successfully resuscitated manually and then randomized into two groups: combined mild hypothermia (CH group) and normothermia group (NT group). A combined hypothermia of ice cold saline infusion and surface cooling was implemented in the animals of the CH group and maintained for 4 hours. The survival outcomes and neurological function were evaluated every 24 hours until a maximum of 96 hours. Neuron apoptosis in hippocampus was analyzed.Results.There were no significant differences in baseline physiologies and primary resuscitation outcomes between both groups. Obvious improvements of cardiac output were observed in the CH group at 120, 180, and 240 mins following resuscitation. The animals demonstrated better survival at 96 hours in the CH group when compared to the NT group. In comparison with the NT group, favorable neurological functions were observed in the CH group.Conclusion.Short duration combined cooling initiated after resuscitation improves survival and neurological outcomes in a porcine model of prolonged VF.
Large Deviation Analysis of a Droplet Model Having a Poisson Equilibrium Distribution
Authors: Ellis Richard S. , Ta’asan Shlomo
Published: October 2015

In this paper we use large deviation theory to determine the equilibrium distribution of a basic droplet model that underlies a number of important models in material science and statistical mechanics. Given b∈N and c>b, K distinguishable particles are placed, each with equal probability 1/N, onto the N sites of a lattice, where K/N equals c. We focus on configurations for which each site is occupied by a minimum of b particles. The main result is the large deviation principle (LDP), in the limit K→∞ and N→∞ with K/N=c, for a sequence of random, number-density measures, which are the empirical measures of dependent random variables that count the droplet sizes. The rate function in the LDP is the relative entropy R(θ∣ρ∗), where θ is a possible asymptotic configuration of the number-density measures and ρ∗ is a Poisson distribution with mean c, restricted to the set of positive integers n satisfying n≥b. This LDP implies that ρ∗ is the equilibrium distribution of the number-density measures, which in turn implies that ρ∗ is the equilibrium distribution of the random variables that count the droplet sizes.
Nonclassical Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia and Pregnancy
Authors: Cuhaci Neslihan , Aydın Cevdet , Yesilyurt Ahmet , Pınarlı Ferda Alpaslan , Ersoy Reyhan , Cakir Bekir
Published: October 2015

Objective. The most common form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is 21-hydroxylase (21-OH) deficiency due to mutation of theCYP21A2gene. Patients with nonclassical CAH (NC-CAH) are usually asymptomatic at birth and typically present in late childhood, adolescence, or adulthood with symptoms of excessive androgen secretion. Subfertility is relative in NC-CAH, but the incidence of spontaneous miscarriage is higher. Here, we report a previously undiagnosed female who gave birth to a normal male child and is planning to become pregnant again.Case Report. A 32-year-old female was referred to our clinic for obesity. Her medical history revealed that she had had three pregnancies. She was planning to become pregnant again. Her laboratory results revealed that she had NC-CAH. Since her husband is the son of her aunt and she had miscarriages and intrauterin exitus in her history, their genetic analyses were performed.Conclusion. Since most patients with NC-CAH have a severe mutation, these patients may give birth to a child with the classical CAH (C-CAH) if their partner is also carrying a severe mutation. Females with NC-CAH who desire pregnancy must be aware of the risk of having an infant with C-CAH.
Sensing Performance Study of SiC, a Wide Bandgap Semiconductor Material Platform for Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor
Authors: Du Wei , Zhao Feng
Published: October 2015

The sensing properties of a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) based waveguide sensor on a wide bandgap semiconductor, silicon carbide (SiC), were studied. Compared to other waveguide sensors, the large bandgap energy of SiC material allows the sensor to operate in the visible and near infrared wavelength range, while the SPR effect by a thin gold film is expected to improve the sensitivity. The confinement factor of the sensor at various wavelengths of the incident light and refractive index of the analyte were investigated using an effective index method. Since the change of analyte type and concentration is reflected by the change of refractive index, the sensing performance can be evaluated by the shift of resonant wavelength from the confinement factor spectrum at different refractive index. The results show that the shift of resonant wavelength demonstrates linear characteristics. A sensitivity of 1928 nm/RIU (refractive index unit) shift could be obtained from the refractive index of 1.338~1.348 which attracts research interests because most biological analytes are in this range.
miR-193b Modulates Resistance to Doxorubicin in Human Breast Cancer Cells by Downregulating MCL-1
Authors: Long Jingpei , Ji Zhiwei , Jiang Kai , Wang Zhaoyang , Meng Guanmin
Published: October 2015

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) family, which is involved in cancer development, proliferation, apoptosis, and drug resistance, is a group of noncoding RNAs that modulate the expression of oncogenes and antioncogenes. Doxorubicin is an active cytotoxic agent for breast cancer treatment, but the acquisition of doxorubicin resistance is a common and critical limitation to cancer therapy. The aim of this study was to investigate whether miR-193b mediated the resistance of breast cancer cells to doxorubicin by targeting myeloid cell leukemia-1 (MCL-1). In this study, we found that miR-193b levels were significantly lower in doxorubicin-resistant MCF-7 (MCF-7/DOXR) cells than in the parental MCF-7 cells. We observed that exogenous miR-193b significantly suppressed the ability of MCF-7/DOXR cells to resist doxorubicin. It demonstrated that miR-193b directly targeted MCL-1 3′-UTR (3′-Untranslated Regions). Further studies indicated that miR-193b sensitized MCF-7/DOXR cells to doxorubicin through a mechanism involving the downregulation of MCL-1. Together, our findings provide evidence that the modulation of miR-193b may represent a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of breast cancer.
Management of Refractory Noninsulinoma Pancreatogenous Hypoglycemia Syndrome with Gastric Bypass Reversal: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Rao Bhavana B. , Click Benjamin , Eid George , Codario Ronald A.
Published: October 2015

Background. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is a commonly performed, effective bariatric procedure; however, rarely, complications such as postprandial hypoglycemia due to noninsulinoma pancreatogenous hypoglycemia syndrome (NIPHS) may ensue. Management of refractory NIPHS is challenging. We report a case that was successfully treated with RYGB reversal.Case Report. A 58-year-old male with history of RYGB nine months earlier for morbid obesity presented for evaluation of postprandial, hypoglycemic seizures. Testing for insulin level, insulin antibodies, oral hypoglycemic agents, pituitary axis hormone levels, and cortisol stimulation was unrevealing. Computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen was unremarkable. A 72-hour fast was completed without hypoglycemia. Mixed meal testing demonstrated endogenous hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia (EHH) and selective arterial calcium stimulation testing (SACST) was positive. Strict dietary modifications, maximal medical therapy, gastrostomy tube feeding, and stomal reduction failed to alleviate symptoms. Ultimately, he underwent laparoscopic reversal of RYGB. Now, 9 months after reversal, he has markedly reduced hypoglycemia burden.Discussion. Hyperfunctioning islets secondary to exaggerated incretin response and altered intestinal nutrient delivery are hypothesized to be causative in NIPHS. For refractory cases, there is increasing skepticism about the safety and efficacy of pancreatic resection. RYGB reversal may be successful.
Impact of Brick Kilns’ Emission on Soil Quality of Agriculture Fields in the Vicinity of Selected Bhaktapur Area of Nepal
Authors: Bisht Gunjan , Neupane Sanjila
Published: October 2015

The study was conducted to evaluate soil quality and impact of brick kiln on different physicochemical parameters of soils of agricultural field, located in the vicinity of Bhaktapur, Nepal. The study was carried out by determining the physicochemical characteristics of soil, soil fertility, and heavy metal contamination of soil. During the entire study period, water absorptivity of soil ranged from 2.4 to 3.3 mg/L, pH varies from 5.885 to 7.64, and organic carbon content and organic matter varied from 0.277 to 0.93%, from 0.477% to 1.603%, respectively. Nutrient content, that is, sulfate and nitrate concentration, in the soil ranged from 0.829 to 3.764 mol/L and from 0.984 to 29.99 mol/L, respectively. The findings revealed that concentrations of heavy metals (chromium and lead) were within permissible limit, although the levels were higher in soil at 50 m and decrease farther from brick kiln. However, the physical parameters and nutrient content were deficient in soil at 50 m while increasing gradually at distances of 100 m and 150 m. The variation of result obtained for physical parameters supports the fact that quality of soil in terms of heavy metal content and nutrient content was directly proportional to the distance from the kiln; that is, the quality of soil increased with increasing distance.
Factor Knowledge Mining Using the Techniques of AI Neural Networks and Self-Organizing Map
Authors: Wu Pao-Kuan , Hsiao Tsung-Chih
Published: October 2015

This paper offers a hybrid technique combined by artificial neural networks (ANN) and self-organizing map (SOM) as a way to explore factor knowledge. ANN and SOM are two kinds of pattern classification techniques based on supervised and unsupervised mechanisms, respectively. This paper proposes a new aspect to combine ANN and SOM as NNSOM process in order to delve into factor knowledge other than pattern classification. The experimental material is conducted by the investigation of street night market in Taiwan. NNSOM process can yield two results about factor knowledge: first, which factor is the most important factor for the development of street night market; second, what value of this factor is most positive to the development of street night market. NNSOM process can combine the advantages of supervised and unsupervised mechanisms and be applied to different disciplines.
Trying to Put the Puzzle Together: Age and Performance Level Modulate the Neural Response to Increasing Task Load within Left Rostral Prefrontal Cortex
Authors: Bauer Eva , Sammer Gebhard , Toepper Max
Published: October 2015

Age-related working memory decline is associated with functional cerebral changes within prefrontal cortex (PFC). Kind and meaning of these changes are heavily discussed since they depend on performance level and task load. Hence, we investigated the effects of age, performance level, and load on spatial working memory retrieval-related brain activation in different subregions of the PFC. 19 younger (Y) and 21 older (O) adults who were further subdivided into high performers (HP) and low performers (LP) performed a modified version of the Corsi Block-Tapping test during fMRI. Brain data was analyzed by a 4 (groups: YHP, OHP, YLP, and OLP) × 3 (load levels: loads 4, 5, and 6) ANOVA. Results revealed significant group × load interaction effects within rostral dorsolateral and ventrolateral PFC. YHP showed a flexible neural upregulation with increasing load, whereas YLP reached a resource ceiling at a moderate load level. OHP showed a similar (though less intense) pattern as YHP and may have compensated age-effects at high task load. OLP showed neural inefficiency at low and no upregulation at higher load. Our findings highlight the relevance of age and performance level for load-dependent activation within rostral PFC. Results are discussed in the context of the compensation-related utilization of neural circuits hypothesis (CRUNCH) and functional PFC organization.
On the Rank of Elliptic Curves in Elementary Cubic Extensions
Authors: Kozuma Rintaro
Published: October 2015

We give a method for explicitly constructing an elementary cubic extension L over which an elliptic curve ED:y2+Dy=x3  (D∈Q∗) has Mordell-Weil rank of at least a given positive integer by finding a close connection between a 3-isogeny of ED and a generic polynomial for cyclic cubic extensions. In our method, the extension degree [L:Q] often becomes small.
Systemic Levamisole-Induced Vasculitis in a Cocaine User without Cutaneous Findings: A Consideration in Diagnosis
Authors: Baptiste Gillian G. , Alexopoulos Anastasia-Stefania , Masud Tahsin , Bonsall Joanna M.
Published: October 2015

Levamisole is a known immunomodulating agent frequently used as a cutting agent in cocaine consumed in the United States today. Numerous cases of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) vasculitis connected with the use of levamisole-adulterated cocaine have previously been reported in the literature, classically characterized by a retiform purpuric rash. We report a case of a crack-cocaine user without cutaneous abnormalities who developed ANCA-associated glomerulonephritis that progressed to renal failure. This case demonstrates the difficulties in solidifying the diagnosis of levamisole-induced vasculitis in the absence of cutaneous findings and the need to pursue more testing to establish causality in ANCA-associated vasculitis that has potential for severe end-organ damage in patients who continue to use cocaine.
One-Dimensional Consolidation of Double-Layered Foundation with Depth-Dependent Initial Excess Pore Pressure and Additional Stress
Authors: Zhang Junhui , Cen Guangming , Liu Weizheng , Wu Houxuan
Published: October 2015

A model for one-dimensional consolidation of a double-layered foundation considering the depth-dependent initial excess pore pressure and additional stress and time-dependent loading under different drainage conditions was presented in this study and its general analytical solution was deduced. The consolidation solutions of several special cases of single-drained and double-drained conditions under an instantaneous loading and a single-level uniform loading were derived. Then, the average degree of consolidation of the double-layered foundation defined by settlement was gained and verified. Finally, the effects of the initial excess pore pressure distributions, depth-dependent additional stress, and loading modes on the consolidation of the soft foundation with an upper crust with different drainage conditions were revealed. The results show that the distributions of initial excess pore pressure and additional stress with depth and loading rates have a significant influence on the consolidation process of the soft foundation with an upper crust. This influence is larger with the single-drained condition than that with the double-drained condition. Comparing the consolidation rate with a uniform initial pore pressure and additional stress, their decreasing distribution with depth quickens the consolidation at the former and middle stages. Moreover, the larger the loading rate is, the quicker the consolidation of the soft foundation with an upper crust is.
An Asynchronous Low Power and High Performance VLSI Architecture for Viterbi Decoder Implemented with Quasi Delay Insensitive Templates
Authors: Devi T. Kalavathi , Palaniappan Sakthivel
Published: October 2015

Convolutional codes are comprehensively used as Forward Error Correction (FEC) codes in digital communication systems. For decoding of convolutional codes at the receiver end, Viterbi decoder is often used to have high priority. This decoder meets the demand of high speed and low power. At present, the design of a competent system in Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) technology requires these VLSI parameters to be finely defined. The proposed asynchronous method focuses on reducing the power consumption of Viterbi decoder for various constraint lengths using asynchronous modules. The asynchronous designs are based on commonly used Quasi Delay Insensitive (QDI) templates, namely, Precharge Half Buffer (PCHB) and Weak Conditioned Half Buffer (WCHB). The functionality of the proposed asynchronous design is simulated and verified using Tanner Spice (TSPICE) in 0.25 µm, 65 nm, and 180 nm technologies of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacture Company (TSMC). The simulation result illustrates that the asynchronous design techniques have 25.21% of power reduction compared to synchronous design and work at a speed of 475 MHz.
The Expression and Correlation of iNOS and p53 in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Yang Lan , Wang Youyuan , Guo Lvhua , Wang Liping , Chen Weiliang , Shi Bin
Published: October 2015

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most prevalent form of oral cancer. Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and p53 are associated with a variety of human cancers, but their expression and interaction in OSCC have not been fully explored. In this study, we investigated the expression of iNOS and p53 in OSCC and their correlation with tumor development and prognosis. In addition, we explored the interaction of iNOS and p53 in OSCC. The expression of iNOS and p53 in OSCC was investigated using immunohistochemical method and their interaction was studied using RNAi technique. Our results showed that the expression of both iNOS and p53 was significantly correlated with tumor stages and pathological grade of OSCC (P<0.05). In contrast, there was no correlation between iNOS and p53 expression and lymph node metastasis (P<0.05). The OSCC survival rate was negatively associated with iNOS expression, but not with p53. A significant increase in the expression of the p53 was observed when iNOS expression was knocked down. The immunoexpression of iNOS is correlated with tumorigenesis and prognosis of OSCC and may serve as a prognostic marker.
Application of Systems Simulation for Predicting and Optimising Energy Requirements for HDF Production
Authors: Luminea Cristina Maria , Donovan John , Tormey David
Published: October 2015

Even though simulation has been used so far in manufacturing facilities for modelling supply chain management, production management, and business processes, its applications in managing the energy consumption within manufacturing companies represent a new and innovative research domain. This prompted the research undertaken for the work present in this paper. The main focus of this research is to analyse production management in a manufacturing facility and correlate it with the energy consumption. The research initially concentrates on different simulation methodologies and their application in the current manufacturing domain. Literature relating to the correlation of energy consumption with production management has also been reviewed. This review identified very few previous instances where simulation tools were used to predict the energy consumption in a manufacturing facility. This research brings a novel approach to investigating the adaptability of industrial simulation processes and tools for modelling the energy consumption with respect to a variable production output. The end result of this investigation consists of a better understanding of the production system and the energy losses that were captured by the simulation model.
Modeling and Simulation of Ballistic Penetration of Ceramic-Polymer-Metal Layered Systems
Authors: Clayton J. D.
Published: October 2015

Numerical simulations and analysis of ballistic impact and penetration by tungsten alloy rods into composite targets consisting of layers of aluminum nitride ceramic tile(s), polymer laminae, and aluminum backing are conducted over a range of impact velocities on the order of 1.0 to 1.2 km/s. Computational results for ballistic efficiency are compared with experimental data from the literature. Simulations and experiments both demonstrate a trend of decreasing ballistic efficiency with increasing impact velocity. Predicted absolute residual penetration depths often exceed corresponding experimental values. The closest agreement between model and experiment is obtained when polymer interfaces are not explicitly represented in the numerical calculations, suggesting that the current model representation of such interfaces may be overly compliant. The present results emphasize the importance of proper resolution of geometry and constitutive properties of thin layers and interfaces between structural constituents for accurate numerical evaluation of performance of modern composite protection systems.
Determination of Lipoxygenase Activity in Cereals Grains Using a Silver Nanoparticles Assay
Authors: Muñoz Raybel , Rodriguez Jose A. , Páez-Hernández M. Elena , Sánchez-Ortega Irais , Santos Eva M.
Published: October 2015

A spectrophotometric method based on the use of silver nanoparticles is presented for the determination of lipoxygenase activity in cereal grains. The method involves the synthesis of prism silver nanoparticles with a maximum absorption at 752 nm, followed by the abatement of the signal as a consequence of the oxidation produced by hydroperoxides generated in the enzymatic reaction. The quantification of the hydroperoxides produced by reaction of lipoxygenase with linoleic acid allows the determination of the enzyme activity in cereal grains. Under optimal conditions, the linear range of the calibration curve ranges from 1.0 to 5.0 μM, with a limit of detection of 0.34 μM. The method was validated comparing the results with those obtained by ferrous-xylenol orange method. A relative standard deviation < 5.0% was obtained in all cases and no significant differences were observed (p<0.05).
A Push on Job Anxiety for Employees on Managing Recent Difficult to Understand Computing Equipment in the Modern Issues in Indian Banking Quarter
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Ragunathan , Swarnalatha Chellapa
Published: October 2015

Stress management can be defined as intervention planned to decrease the force of stressors in the administrative center. These can have a human being focus, aimed at raising an individual’s ability to cope with stressors and the implementation of the CRM is essential to establish a better performance of the banking sector. Since managing stress and customer relationship management are becoming crucial in the field of management the work has forecasted them in a wide range of dimensions. This paper organizes few preliminary concepts of stress and critically analyzes the CRM strategy implemented by banking sector. Hence the employees of the Banking Industry have been asked to give their opinion about the CRM strategy adopted by banks. In order to provide the background of the employees, the profile of the employees has been discussed initially. The profile of the employees along with their opinion on the CRM practices adopted at Banking Industries has been discussed. In our work progresses we have been taken of two main parameters for consideration and it detriment in which area stress are mainly responds, and also the paper envelopes certain valuable stress management tactics and techniques that are particularly compassionate for people who have been working in the banking sector. Also an attempt to diagnose the impact of underside stress of day to day life in mounting a bigger level stress upon the employees has been made. Further development has been made with a detailed parametric analysis of employee stress conducted with the wide range of key parameters and several rounds of experiments have been conducted with techniques as Kolmogorov‐Smirnov test, Garrett ranking, and ANOVA; the work ensures to pave way for an accurate measure in customer handling. The questionnaire is planned to be distributed to 175 employees in the Madurai district banks.
Anthropometry of Iranian Guidance School Students with Different Ethnicities: A Comparative Study
Authors: Mehrparvar Amir Houshang , Hafezi Rahmatollah , Mirmohammadi Seyyed Jalil , Mostaghaci Mehrdad , Davari Mohammad Hossein
Published: October 2015

Objective. We measured some anthropometric dimensions of Iranian guidance school students selected from different ethnicities.Background. Anthropometric dimensions are used for design of equipment, furniture, and clothing. Furniture with inappropriate design not fulfilling the users’ anthropometric dimensions may have a negative effect on health.Method. A total of 7400 Iranian guidance school students aged 12–14 years entered the study and their static anthropometric dimensions were measured. Descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, and key percentiles were calculated. All dimensions were compared among different ethnicities and different genders.Results. This study showed significant differences in a set of 22 anthropometric dimensions regarding gender, age, and ethnicity.Conclusion. According to the results of this study, difference between genders and among different ethnicities should be taken into account by designers and manufacturers of guidance school furniture.Application. This study has prepared a data bank of anthropometric dimensions of 12–14-year-old students which can be used as basic information to find appropriate dimensions of school furniture.
Effect of Temperature and Catalyst Concentration on Polyglycerol during Synthesis
Authors: Ardila-Suárez Carolina , Rojas-Avellaneda Diana , Ramirez-Caballero Gustavo E.
Published: October 2015

Morphology, molecular weight, polydispersity, functionality, and thermal properties are important characteristics when using polyglycerol as a building block in the development of materials for industrial applications such as hydrogels, surfactants, asphalts additives, cosmetics, pharmaceutical, biomedical, and drug delivery systems. In this study several experimental techniques are used to understand the effect of process variables during synthesis in the catalyzed etherification of glycerol, a coproduct of biodiesel industry. Biobased polyglycerol is a high-valued product, which is useful as building block material because of its remarkable features, for instance, multiple hydrophilic groups, excellent biocompatibility, and highly flexible aliphatic polyether backbone. A connection between polyglycerol characteristics and process variables during synthesis allows the control of glycerol polymerization through reaction conditions. We show that temperature and catalyst concentration can be tuned with the aim of tailoring fundamental polyglycerol parameters including molecular weight, polydispersity, morphology, and functionality.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Obstructive Airway Adult Test for Diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Gasparini Giulio , Vicini Claudio , De Benedetto Michele , Salamanca Fabrizio , Sorrenti Giovanni , Romandini Mario , Bosi Marcello , Saponaro Gianmarco , Foresta Enrico , Laforì Andreina , Meccariello Giuseppe , Bianchi Alessandro , Toraldo Domenico Maurizio , Campanini Aldo , Montevecchi Filippo , Rizzotto Grazia , Cervelli Daniele , Moro Alessandro , Arigliani Michele , Gobbi Riccardo , Pelo Sandro
Published: October 2015

Rationale.The gold standard for the diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is polysomnography, whose access is however reduced by costs and limited availability, so that additional diagnostic tests are needed.Objectives.To analyze the diagnostic accuracy of the Obstructive Airway Adult Test (OAAT) compared to polysomnography for the diagnosis of OSA in adult patients.Methods.Ninety patients affected by OSA verified with polysomnography (AHI ≥ 5) and ten healthy patients, randomly selected, were included and all were interviewed by one blind examiner with OAAT questions.Measurements and Main Results.The Spearman rho, evaluated to measure the correlation between OAAT and polysomnography, was 0.72 (p<0.01). The area under the ROC curve (95% CI) was the parameter to evaluate the accuracy of the OAAT: it was 0.91 (0.81–1.00) for the diagnosis of OSA (AHI ≥ 5), 0.90 (0.82–0.98) for moderate OSA (AHI ≥ 15), and 0.84 (0.76–0.92) for severe OSA (AHI ≥ 30).Conclusions.The OAAT has shown a high correlation with polysomnography and also a high diagnostic accuracy for the diagnosis of OSA. It has also been shown to be able to discriminate among the different degrees of severity of OSA. Additional large studies aiming to validate this questionnaire as a screening or diagnostic test are needed.
Bat Algorithm Based Hybrid Filter-Wrapper Approach
Authors: Taha Ahmed Majid , Chen Soong-Der , Mustapha Aida
Published: October 2015

This paper presents a new hybrid of Bat Algorithm (BA) based on Mutual Information (MI) and Naive Bayes called BAMI. In BAMI, MI was used to identify promising features which could potentially accelerate the process of finding the best known solution. The promising features were then used to replace several of the randomly selected features during the search initialization. BAMI was tested over twelve datasets and compared against the standard Bat Algorithm guided by Naive Bayes (BANV). The results showed that BAMI outperformed BANV in all datasets in terms of computational time. The statistical test indicated that BAMI has significantly lower computational time than BANV in six out of twelve datasets, while maintaining the effectiveness. The results also showed that BAMI performance was not affected by the number of features or samples in the dataset. Finally, BAMI was able to find the best known solutions with limited number of iterations.
Helicobacter pyloriand T Helper Cells: Mechanisms of Immune Escape and Tolerance
Authors: Larussa Tiziana , Leone Isabella , Suraci Evelina , Imeneo Maria , Luzza Francesco
Published: October 2015

Helicobacter pyloricolonizes the gastric mucosa of at least half of the human population, causing a worldwide infection that appears in early childhood and if not treated, it can persist for life. The presence of symptoms and their severity depend on bacterial components, host susceptibility, and environmental factors, which allowH. pylorito switch between commensalism and pathogenicity.H. pylori-driven interactions with the host immune system underlie the persistence of the infection in humans, since the bacterium is able to interfere with the activity of innate and adaptive immune cells, reducing the inflammatory response in its favour. Gastritis due toH. pyloriresults from a complex interaction between several T cell subsets. In particular,H. pyloriis known to induce a T helper (Th)1/Th17 cell response-driven gastritis, whose impaired modulation caused by the bacterium is thought to sustain the ongoing inflammatory condition and the unsuccessful clearing of the infection. In this review we discuss the current findings underlying the mechanisms implemented byH. pylorito alter the T helper lymphocyte proliferation, thus facilitating the development of chronic infections and allowing the survival of the bacterium in the human host.
Safety, Pharmacokinetics, and Pharmacodynamics of a Humanized Anti-Semaphorin 4D Antibody, in a First-In-Human Study of Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Patnaik Amita , Weiss Glen J. , Leonard John E. , Rasco Drew Warren , Sachdev Jasgit C. , Fisher Terrence L. , Winter Laurie A. , Reilly Christine , Parker Robert B. , Mutz Danielle , Blaydorn Lisa , Tolcher Anthony W. , Zauderer Maurice , Ramanathan Ramesh K.
Published: October 2015

Purpose: Study objectives included evaluating the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and antitumor activity of VX15/2503 in advanced solid tumor patients.

Experimental Design: Weekly i.v. doses were administered on a 28-day cycle. Safety, immunogenicity, PK, efficacy, T-cell membrane–associated SEMA4D (cSEMA4D) expression and saturation, soluble SEMA4D (sSEMA4D) serum levels, and serum biomarker levels were evaluated.

Results: Forty-two patients were enrolled into seven sequential cohorts and an expansion cohort (20 mg/kg). VX15/2503 was well tolerated. Treatment-related adverse events were primarily grade 1 or 2 and included nausea (14.3%) and fatigue (11.9%); arthralgia, decreased appetite, infusion-related reaction, and pyrexia were each 7.3%. One pancreatic cancer patient (15 mg/kg) experienced a Grade 3 dose-limiting toxicity; elevated γ-glutamyl transferase. Complete cSEMA4D saturation was generally observed at serum antibody concentrations ≥0.3 μg/mL, resulting in decreased cSEMA4D expression. Soluble SEMA4D levels increased with dose and infusion number. Neutralizing anti-VX15/2503 antibodies led to treatment discontinuation for 1 patient. VX15/2503 Cmax and AUC generally increased with dose and dose number. One patient (20 mg/kg) experienced a partial response, 19 patients (45.2%) exhibited SD for ≥8 weeks, and 8 (19%) had SD for ≥16 weeks. Subjects with elevated B/T lymphocytes exhibited longer progression-free survival.

Conclusions: VX15/2503 was well tolerated and produced expected PD effects. The correlation between immune cell levels at baseline and progression-free survival is consistent with an immune-mediated mechanism of action. Future investigations will be in combination with immunomodulatory agents. Clin Cancer Res; 22(4); 827–36. ©2015 AACR.
High-Intensity Induction Chemotherapy Is Feasible for Elderly Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Shacham-Abulafia Adi , Itchaki Gilad , Yeshurun Moshe , Paul Mical , Peck Anat , Leader Avi , Shpilberg Ofer , Ram Ron , Raanani Pia
Published: October 2015

Background: The prognosis of elderly patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is poor, and the best treatment is controversial. Since the majority of AML patients are older than 60 years, identification of those who might benefit from intensive treatment is essential. Methods: Data from electronic charts of consecutive AML patients treated in our center were analyzed. Eligibility criteria included newly diagnosed de novo or secondary AML, an age of 60 years or older, and intensive induction treatment. Results: Sixty-two patients were included in the analysis. Forty-six patients (74%) achieved complete remission (CR) after 1-2 intensive induction courses. Twenty of them received consolidation with conventional chemotherapy, 20 proceeded to allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT), and 6 were ineligible for further treatment. The projected overall survival (OS) at 2 and 3 years was 28 and 23%, respectively. A normal karyotype, CR achievement, and allo-HCT were associated with improved OS, while an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0-1 was borderline associated. The median survival and disease-free survival at 2 years was 18.7 months and 49%, respectively, for patients who underwent allo-HCT in CR1, compared to 12.8 months and 25%, respectively, for those who did not. Conclusion: Based on our data, selected eligible elderly AML patients might benefit from intensive treatment.
Disease-Targeted Treatment Improves Cognitive Function in Patients with Precapillary Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Somaini Gina , Stamm Adriana , Müller-Mottet Séverine , Hasler Elisabeth , Keusch Stephan , Hildenbrand Florian F. , Furian Michael , Speich Rudolf , Bloch Konrad E. , Ulrich Silvia
Published: October 2015

Background: Patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) may suffer from cognitive deficits that potentially relate to reduced oxygen delivery and cerebral tissue oxygenation (CTO). Objective: To evaluate the hypothesis that cognitive function improves with therapy, along with improved CTO. Methods: Twenty incident patients with arterial or chronic thromboembolic PH had CTO monitoring by near-infrared spectroscopy during diagnostic right heart catheterization. Cognitive tests [Trail Making Tests (TMTs), Victoria Stroop tests and the Five-Point Test (5PT)], the 6-min walk distance (6MWD) test, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were assessed and repeated after 3 months of disease-targeted medication. Results: At baseline, 45% of PH patients had cognitive deficits. At 3 months, the patients had improved on the TMT A and the Stroop 2 test [37 s (27; 55) versus 30 s (24; 42), p < 0.05, and 18 s (16; 22) versus 16 s (15; 20), p < 0.01], whereas CTO remained unchanged. Arterial oxygen saturation, NYHA class, 6MWD and HRQoL had also improved. Baseline CTO was the strongest predictor of cognitive function, even in multivariate analysis including age, 6MWD and HRQoL. Improvements in cognitive function were not associated with changes in CTO. Conclusions: In patients with PH, 3 months of disease-targeted medication resulted in better cognitive function. Although CTO was the strongest predictor of cognitive function at baseline, it did not change during target therapy. The results of this pilot study should be confirmed in an adequately powered controlled trial.
The Effect of Melatonin Adsorbed to Polyethylene Glycol Microspheres on the Survival of MCF-7 Cells
Authors: França Eduardo Luzía , Honorio-França Adenilda Cristina , Fernandes Rubian Trindade da Silva , Marins Camila Moreira Ferreira , Pereira Claudia Cristina de Souza , Varotti Fernando de Pilla
Published: October 2015

Although melatonin exhibits oncostatic properties such as antiproliferative effects, the oral bioavailability of this hormone is less than 20%. Modified drug release systems have been used to improve the pharmacological efficiency of drugs. These systems can change the pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of the associated drugs. Thus, this study investigated the effect of melatonin adsorbed to polyethylene glycol (PEG) microspheres on MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. The MCF-7 cells were obtained from the American Type Culture Collection. MCF-7 cells were preincubated for 24 h with or without melatonin (100 ng/ml), PEG microspheres or melatonin adsorbed to PEG microspheres (100 ng/ml). Viability, intracellular calcium release and apoptosis in MCF-7 cells were determined by flow cytometry. MCF-7 cells incubated with melatonin adsorbed to PEG microspheres showed a lower viability rate (40.0 ± 8.3 with melatonin adsorbed to PEG microspheres compared to 54.1 ± 7.3 with melatonin; 81.8 ± 12.5 with PEG microsphere and 92.7 ± 4.1 with medium), increased spontaneous intracellular Ca2+ release (27.0 ± 8.6 with melatonin adsorbed to PEG microspheres compared to 21.5 ± 13.4 with melatonin; 10.1 ± 5.4 with PEG microsphere and 9.1 ± 5.6 with medium) and increased apoptosis index (51.2 ± 2.7 with melatonin adsorbed to PEG microspheres compared to 36.0 ± 2.1 with melatonin; 4.9 ± 0.5 with PEG microsphere and 3.1 ± 0.6 with medium). The results indicate that melatonin adsorbed to PEG microspheres exerts antitumor effects on human MCF-7 breast cancer cells. However, clinical tests must be performed to confirm the use of melatonin adsorbed to PEG microspheres as an alternative therapy against cancer.
Are Anti-TNF-α Agents Safe for Treating Psoriasis in Hepatitis C Virus Patients with Advanced Liver Disease? Case Reports and Review of the Literature
Authors: Di Nuzzo Sergio , Boccaletti Valeria , Fantini Carolina , Cortelazzi Chiara , Missale Gabriele , Fabrizi Giuseppe , Lotti Torello , Hercogová Jana , Pagliarello Calogero
Published: October 2015

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) inhibitors represent an effective treatment for severe psoriasis in hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients. The literature reports mainly on short-term treatment in patients with chronic hepatitis with minimum-to-moderate activity with an acceptable safety profile. We report the first 2 cases of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) arising in HCV psoriatic patients with advanced liver disease during long-term treatment with etanercept. Our first patient, known to have had HCV infection for 41 years, developed an HCC after 21 months of therapy with etanercept (50 mg/week). The second patient, HCV+ for 20 years, was treated for 58 months with the same therapy, and despite no signs of liver function impairment was diagnosed with HCC. Both of them presented with cirrhosis, which was diagnosed 9 and 5 years earlier, respectively. It remains to be clarified whether there is any connection between psoriasis treatment with anti-TNF-α agents and the development of HCC in HCV-infected patients. Further long-term, follow-up studies and registries of HCV patients with mild/moderate activity may contribute to clarify this issue.
Antimalarial Drugs for the Treatment of Oral Erosive Lichen Planus
Authors: Rivas-Tolosa Nancy , Requena Celia , Llombart Beatriz , Alcalá Rebeca , Serra-Guillén Carlos , Calomarde Laura , Nagore Eduardo , Guillén Carlos , Sanmartín Onofre
Published: October 2015

Background: Treatment of oral erosive lichen planus is considered a therapeutic challenge. Various systemic and topical agents aimed at controlling the symptoms, rather than curing the lesions, have been used with varying results. Objective: To evaluate the response to treatment with antimalarial drugs in patients with oral erosive lichen planus. Methods: Eight patients diagnosed with oral erosive lichen planus were treated with antimalarial agents. The first clinical evaluation was made after a month of treatment and then every 2-3 months. Baseline ophthalmologic examinations were performed, and laboratory values were monitored before and during treatment. Results: All studied patients who had previously been resistant to other treatments responded favorably. Pain relief and reduced erythema and erosions were observed after of a mean of 2.4 months. Conclusion: Antimalarials may be useful for the treatment of oral erosive lichen planus. They are easily administered and affordable, with few adverse effects.
Steroid Treatment Reduces Allergic Airway Inflammation and Does Not Alter the Increased Numbers of Dendritic Cells and Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide-Expressing Neurons in Airway Sensory Ganglia
Authors: Le Duc Dung , Funck Ulrike , Wronski Sabine , Heck Sebastian , Tschernig Thomas , Bischoff Markus , Sester Martina , Herr Christian , Bals Robert , Welte Tobias , Braun Armin , Dinh Quoc Thai
Published: October 2015

Objectives: Our previous data demonstrated that allergic airway inflammation induces migration of dendritic cells (DC) into airway sensory jugular and nodose ganglia (jugular-nodose ganglion complex; JNC). Here we investigated the effects of steroid treatment regarding the expression and migration of DC and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)-immunoreactive neurons of vagal sensory ganglia during allergic airway inflammation. Methods: A house dust mite (HDM) model for allergic airway inflammation was used. The mice received 0.3 mg fluticasone propionate per kilogram of body weight in the last 9 days. JNC slices were analyzed on MHC II, the neuronal marker PGP9.5, and the neuropeptide CGRP. Results: Allergic airway inflammation increased the numbers of DC and CGRP-expressing neurons in the JNC significantly in comparison to the controls (DC/neurons: HDM 44.58 ± 1.6% vs. saline 33.29 ± 1.6%, p < 0.05; CGRP-positive neurons/total neurons: HDM 30.65 ± 1.9% vs. saline 19.49 ± 2.3%, p < 0.05). Steroid treatment did not have any effect on the numbers of DC and CGRP-expressing neurons in the JNC compared to HDM-treated mice. Conclusions: The present findings indicate an important role of DC and CGRP-containing neurons in the pathogenesis of allergic airway inflammation. However, steroid treatment did not have an effect on the population of DC and neurons displaying CGRP in the JNC, whereas steroid treatment was found to suppress allergic airway inflammation.
Collaborative Crowdsourcing for the Diagnosis of Rare Genetic Syndromes: The DYSCERNE Experience
Authors: Douzgou Sofia , Pollalis Yiannis A. , Vozikis Athanassios , Patrinos George P. , Clayton-Smith Jill
Published: October 2015

The big-data revolution is creating a challenge for the provision of services in the health sector to keep pace with the expectations of the general population. Utilization of crowdsourcing can impact positively on the quality, cost and speed of healthcare by involving large sections of professionals and the public and creating novel science within an ethical framework. In 2007, the DYSCERNE project was funded by the European Commission Public Health Executive Agency (EU DG Sanco) aimed at setting up a network of expertise for rare dysmorphic disorders. As part of DYSCERNE, a Dysmorphology Diagnostic System was set up to enable clinicians throughout the EU to submit cases electronically for diagnosis using a secure, web-based interface, hosted at specified access points (submitting nodes), in 26 different European countries. DYSCERNE utilized the process of crowdsourcing international expertise for the clinical diagnosis of very rare genetic syndromes of multiple congenital anomalies. This is the first reported account of collaborative crowd sourcing in dysmorphology, as part of a clinical genetics service.
Royal Inbreeding and the Extinction of Lineages of the Habsburg Dynasty
Authors: Álvarez Gonzalo , Ceballos Francisco C.
Published: October 2015

Objective: The impact of inbreeding in the two branches of the Habsburg dynasty, the Spanish and the Austrian Habsburgs, is investigated to explain why the Spanish lineage was extinguished at the end of the 17th century and the Austrian lineage not. Methods: Kinship and inbreeding coefficients for the Habsburgs were computed from pedigree analysis. Different regression methods were used to measure the effect of inbreeding on survival from birth to 10 years of age. Results: As a consequence of the persistent consanguinity over generations, a number of Spanish and Austrian Habsburgs presented extremely high inbreeding coefficients. The mean inbreeding coefficient was 0.0790 ± 0.0169 for the Austrian Emperors and 0.1287 ± 0.0378 for the Spanish kings. A statistically significant inbreeding depression for survival to 10 years of age was detected in the two lineages (estimates of the inbreeding load were 2.985 ± 0.820 for the Austrian Habsburgs and 4.676 ± 2.416 for the Spanish Habsburgs). However, statistically significant differences between the two lineages were not detected for both inbreeding coefficient and magnitude of inbreeding depression. Conclusions: It is shown that the interaction between inbreeding and historical contingency is critical for the understanding of the downfall of the Spanish Habsburgs and the continuity of the Austrian lineage.