bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A questionnaire‐based survey on the uptake and use of cattle vaccines in the UK
Authors: Cresswell E. , Brennan M. L. , Barkema H. W. , Wapenaar W.
Published: July 2014

Background

Vaccination is a widely used strategy for disease control in cattle in the UK and abroad. However, there has been limited research describing the uptake and use of cattle vaccines on UK farms.

Aim

To describe the current uptake and usage of cattle vaccines in the UK.

Design

A questionnaire, available in paper and online format, was distributed to cattle farmers by convenience sampling.

Participants

All UK cattle farmers were eligible to participate in the study.

Results

Eighty‐six per cent of respondents (n=229/266) had vaccinated their cattle in the past year. Diseases most commonly vaccinated against were Bovine Viral Diarrhoea, Leptospirosis and Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis. Vaccination compliance was limited in certain areas, for example only 48 per cent of respondents stated that they administered the second dose in the primary course within the recommended timeframe, and 14 per cent of respondents stated that they vaccinated earlier than the youngest recommended age. Although outside the scope of this study, further work is needed to establish the extent of inadequate compliance and the effect this has on vaccine efficacy. The role of the veterinarian was highlighted as the main supplier of vaccines and preferred source of vaccination information. Respondents preferred to receive recommendations regarding vaccination by face‐to‐face communication with the veterinarian.

Conclusions

The results provide a description of the current uptake and usage of cattle vaccines in the UK. Uptake is generally high but there are areas of usage of vaccines which could be improved upon. The veterinarian plays a key role as supplier of vaccines and a source of information for the majority of farmers. Although outside the scope of this study, further work is needed to establish the extent of inadequate compliance and the effect this has on vaccine efficacy. Although the respondents in this study represent a biased population of farmers, the findings indicate areas for future investigation in order to improve vaccination strategies in cattle in the UK.
Different effect of l-NAME treatment on susceptibility to decompression sickness in male and female rats
Authors: Mazur Aleksandra , Buzzacott Peter , Lambrechts Kate , Wang Qiong , Belhomme Marc , Theron Michael , Popov Georgi , Distefano Giovanni , Guerrero Francois
Published: July 2014

Vascular bubble formation results from supersaturation during inadequate decompression contributes to endothelial injuries, which form the basis for the development of decompression sickness (DCS). Risk factors for DCS include increased age, weight–fat mass, decreased maximal oxygen uptake, chronic diseases, dehydration, and nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. Production of NO is often affected by diving and its expression–activity varies between the genders. Little is known about the influence of sex on the risk of DCS. To study this relationship we used an animal model of Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) to induce decreased NO production. Male and female rats with diverse ages and weights were divided into 2 groups: treated with l-NAME (in tap water; 0.05 mg·mL–1 for 7 days) and a control group. To control the distribution of nitrogen among tissues, 2 different compression–decompression protocols were used. Results showed that l-NAME was significantly associated with increased DCS in female rats (p = 0.039) only. Weight was significant for both sexes (p = 0.01). The protocol with the highest estimated tissue pressures in the slower compartments was 2.6 times more likely to produce DCS than the protocol with the highest estimated tissue pressures in faster compartments. The outcome of this study had significantly different susceptibility to DCS after l-NAME treatment between the sexes, while l-NAME per se had no effect on the likelihood of DCS. The analysis also showed that for the appearance of DCS, the most significant factors were type of protocol and weight.
Marine birds and plastic debris in Canada: a national synthesis and a way forward
Authors: Provencher Jennifer F. , Bond Alexander L. , Mallory Mark L.
Published: July 2014

Marine plastic ingestion by seabirds was first documented in the 1960s, but over 50 years later our understanding about the prevalence, intensity, and subsequent effect of plastic pollution in the oceans is still developing. In Canada, systematic assessments using recognized standard protocols began only in the mid-2000s. With marine plastic pollution identified by the United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP) as one of the most critical challenges for the environment, a greater understanding of how plastics affect marine birds in Canada, along with a national strategy, is timely and necessary. To better understand which and how many marine birds are affected by marine debris, we reviewed reports of plastic ingestion and nest incorporation in Canada. Of the 91 marine bird species found in Canadian waters, detailed plastic ingestion data from multiple years and locations are available for only six species. Another 33 species have incidental reports, and we lack any data on dozens more. Future efforts should focus on characterizing the risk of plastic ingestion among understudied species and on continued monitoring of species that are known indicators of plastic pollution internationally and found in multiple regions of Canada to facilitate comparisons at the national and international levels.
Dynamic Response of Spiral Cantilever Undergoing Magnetic Coupling
Authors: Bai Xiaoling , Wen Yumei , Li Ping , Yang Jin , Peng Xiao , Yue Xihai
Published: July 2014

Cantilever beams have found intensive and extensive uses as underlying mechanisms for energy transduction in sensors as well as in energy harvesters. In magnetoelectric (ME) transduction, the underlying cantilever beam usually will undergo magnetic coupling effect. As the beam itself is either banded with magnetic transducer or magnets, the dynamic motion of the cantilever can be modified due to the magnetic force between the magnets and ME sensors. In this study, the dynamic response of a typical spiral cantilever beam with magnetic coupling is investigated. The spiral cantilever acts as the resonator of an energy harvester with a tip mass in the form of magnets, and a ME transducer is positioned in the air gap and interacts with the magnets. It is expected that this spiral configuration is capable of performing multiple vibration modes over a small frequency range and the response frequencies can be magnetically tunable. The experimental results show that the magnetic coupling between the magnets and the transducer plays a favorable role in achieving tunable resonant frequencies and reducing the frequency spacings. This will benefits the expansion of the response band of a device and is especially useful in energy harvesting.
S-adenosylmethionine mediates inhibition of inflammatory response and changes in DNA methylation in human macrophages
Authors: Pfalzer Anna C. , Choi Sang-Woon , Tammen Stephanie A. , Park Lara K. , Bottiglieri Teodoro , Parnell Laurence D. , Lamon-Fava Stefania
Published: July 2014

S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), the unique methyl donor in DNA methylation, has been shown to lower lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced expression of the proinflammatory cytokine TNF-α and increase the expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in macrophages. The aim of this study was to assess whether epigenetic mechanisms mediate the anti-inflammatory effects of SAM. Human monocytic THP1 cells were differentiated into macrophages and treated with 0, 500, or 1,000 μmol/l SAM for 24 h, followed by stimulation with LPS. TNFα and IL-10 expression levels were measured by real-time PCR, cellular concentrations of SAM and S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH), a metabolite of SAM, were measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), and DNA methylation was measured with LC-MS/MS and microarrays. Relative to control (0 μmol/l SAM), treatment with 500 μmol/l SAM caused a significant decrease in TNF-α expression (−45%, P < 0.05) and increase in IL-10 expression (+77%, P < 0.05). Treatment with 1,000 μmol/l SAM yielded no significant additional benefits. Relative to control, 500 μmol/l SAM increased cellular SAM concentrations twofold without changes in SAH, and 1,000 μmol/l SAM increased cellular SAM sixfold and SAH fourfold. Global DNA methylation increased 7% with 500 μmol/l SAM compared with control. Following treatment with 500 μmol/l SAM, DNA methylation microarray analysis identified 765 differentially methylated regions associated with 918 genes. Pathway analysis of these genes identified a biological network associated with cardiovascular disease, including a subset of genes that were differentially hypomethylated and whose expression levels were altered by SAM. Our data indicate that SAM modulates the expression of inflammatory genes in association with changes in specific gene promoter DNA methylation.
Numerical Simulation of Water Jet Flow Using Diffusion Flux Mixture Model
Authors: Shang Zhi , Lou Jing , Li Hongying
Published: July 2014

A multidimensional diffusion flux mixture model was developed to simulate water jet two-phase flows. Through the modification of the gravity using the gradients of the mixture velocity, the centrifugal force on the water droplets was able to be considered. The slip velocities between the continuous phase (gas) and the dispersed phase (water droplets) were able to be calculated through multidimensional diffusion flux velocities based on the modified multidimensional drift flux model. Through the numerical simulations, comparing with the experiments and the simulations of traditional algebraic slip mixture model on the water mist spray, the model was validated.
Gitelman Syndrome in a School Boy Who Presented with Generalized Convulsion and Had a R642H/R642W Mutation in theSLC12A3Gene
Authors: Makino Shigeru , Tajima Toshihiro , Shinozuka Jun , Ikumi Aki , Awaguni Hitoshi , Tanaka Shin-ichiro , Maruyama Rikken , Imashuku Shinsaku
Published: July 2014

An 8-year-old Japanese boy presented with a generalized convulsion. He had hypokalemia (serum K 2.4 mEq/L), hypomagnesemia, and metabolic alkalosis (BE 5.7 mmol/L). In addition, his plasma renin activity was elevated. He was tentatively diagnosed with epilepsy on the basis of the electroencephalogram findings and was treated by potassium L-aspartate and carbamazepine to control the hypokalemia and seizure, respectively. However, a year later, the patient continued to have similar abnormal laboratory data. A presumptive diagnosis of Gitelman syndrome (GS) was then made and the patient’s peripheral blood mononuclear cells were subjected to sequence analysis of theSLC12A3gene, which encodes a thiazide-sensitive sodium-chloride cotransporter. The patient was found to have compound heterozygous mutations, namely, R642H inherited from his father and R642W inherited from his mother. Thus, if a patient shows persistent hypokalemia and metabolic alkalosis, GS must be considered, even if the patient exhibits atypical clinical symptoms.
Prediction of the Reference Evapotranspiration Using a Chaotic Approach
Authors: Wang Wei-guang , Zou Shan , Luo Zhao-hui , Zhang Wei , Chen Dan , Kong Jun
Published: July 2014

Evapotranspiration is one of the most important hydrological variables in the context of water resources management. An attempt was made to understand and predict the dynamics of reference evapotranspiration from a nonlinear dynamical perspective in this study. The reference evapotranspiration data was calculated using the FAO Penman-Monteith equation with the observed daily meteorological data for the period 1966–2005 at four meteorological stations (i.e., Baotou, Zhangbei, Kaifeng, and Shaoguan) representing a wide range of climatic conditions of China. The correlation dimension method was employed to investigate the chaotic behavior of the reference evapotranspiration series. The existence of chaos in the reference evapotranspiration series at the four different locations was proved by the finite and low correlation dimension. A local approximation approach was employed to forecast the daily reference evapotranspiration series. Low root mean square error (RSME) and mean absolute error (MAE) (for all locations lower than 0.31 and 0.24, resp.), high correlation coefficient (CC), and modified coefficient of efficiency (for all locations larger than 0.97 and 0.8, resp.) indicate that the predicted reference evapotranspiration agrees well with the observed one. The encouraging results indicate the suitableness of chaotic approach for understanding and predicting the dynamics of the reference evapotranspiration.
Real‐Time Arterial Coordination Control Based on Dynamic Intersection Turning Fractions Estimation Using Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Jiao Pengpeng , Wang Honglin , Sun Tuo
Published: July 2014

Real‐time arterial coordination control is crucial for urban transportation systems and is partially dependent on dynamic turning flows at intersections. Few existing researches employ such information due to the restrictions of traffic surveillance systems. This paper presents a model framework for real‐time arterial coordination control based on dynamic intersection turning fraction estimation, including three submodels: (1) a parameter optimization model to estimate dynamic intersection turning fractions using detected link counts at entering and exiting approaches; (2) a nonlinear model using minimum delay as an objective to optimize the time‐varying public cycle for the arterial road based on the estimated turning flows; and (3) a revised optimization model to achieve real‐time offset and split for the arterial road using the novel uninterrupted ratio as objective function. Two revised genetic algorithms are developed to solve the first and third submodels, respectively, and an ordinary optimization algorithm is designed for the second submodel. Time‐varying public cycle, offset, and split constitute the real‐time arterial coordination control scheme together. The general model framework removes most of the assumptions of conventional arterial control models and provides a time‐varying timing plan. Simulation experiments using actual data indicate that the proposed model yields much better results than the existing methods.
Estimation of the Treatment Effects of Ownership on the Indirect Financing of Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises
Authors: Wang Xiuzhen , Hu Yi , Xia Xiaohua , Deng Ying
Published: July 2014

Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the important driving forces for the growth of China’s economy. However, financing difficulty has always been the important problem besetting the development of SMEs for a long time. In particular, in recent years, US subprime crisis in 2008 caused a heavy blow to the development of some externally oriented SMEs. Thus, how to effectively overcome financing predicament for the SMEs is crucial for Chinese government. In this paper, based on microdata from China Industrial Enterprise Database, propensity score matching (PSM) method is adopted to conduct empirical analysis about the treatment effects of indirect financing level of SMEs under different systems. Empirical results reveal that state-owned enterprises enjoy indirect financing advantages compared with other enterprises and there is certain ownership discrimination against foreign-funded enterprises and private enterprises. In particular, the indirect financing rate of state-owned enterprises is 1.4% higher than that of other enterprises, and the indirect financing rate of foreign-funded enterprises is 6% lower than that of other enterprises; private enterprises are advantageous in indirect financing compared with other enterprises; however, indirect financing rate of private enterprises is 1.8% lower than that of state-owned enterprises, which also reveals ownership discrimination to certain extent.
Karhunen-Loève Expansion for the Second Order Detrended Brownian Motion
Authors: Zhou Yongchun , Ai Xiaohui , Lv Minghao , Tian Boping
Published: July 2014

Based on the norm in the Hilbert SpaceL2[0,1], the second order detrended Brownian motion is defined as the orthogonal component of projection of the standard Brownian motion into the space spanned by nonlinear function subspace. Karhunen-Loève expansion for this process is obtained together with the relationship of that of a generalized Brownian bridge. As applications, Laplace transform, large deviation, and small deviation are given.
Factors Associated with Spontaneous Clearance of Hepatitis C Virus in Chinese Population
Authors: Kong Fei , Pan Yu , Chi Xiumei , Wang Xiaomei , Chen Linjiao , Lv Juan , Sun Haibo , Wu Ruihong , Jin Jinglan , Yu Ge , Ma Zhenhua , Wang Yang , Huang Xinxing , Li Hua , Bai Yang , Jia Jing , Minuk Gerald Y. , Zhong Jin , Sun Bing , Jiang Jing , Niu Junqi
Published: July 2014

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections spontaneously clear in approximately 15–45% of infected individuals. Factors which influence spontaneous HCV clearance remain to be identified. The purpose of the present study was to identify variables associated with spontaneous HCV clearance in a referred population of Chinese patients. The prevalence of host, viral, and environmental factors known to influence the outcome of HCV infections was compared in 92 HCV spontaneous clearance subjects and 318 HCV persistent infection subjects. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify those factors associated with spontaneous HCV clearance. In univariate analysis, female gender, a history of icteric hepatitis, serologic evidence of concurrent HBV infection, and rs12979860 CC genotype were positively associated with spontaneous HCV clearance, while alcohol consumption was negatively associated with clearance. In multivariate analysis, female gender, a history of icteric hepatitis, concurrent HBV infection, and rs12979860 CC genotype remained independent variables associated with spontaneous HCV clearance. Spontaneous HCV clearance is more likely to occur in females, subjects with a history of icteric hepatitis, HBV coinfections, and those with the rs12979860 CC genotype.
Existence and Global Asymptotic Behavior of Positive Solutions for Nonlinear Fractional Dirichlet Problems on the Half-Line
Authors: Bachar Imed , Mâagli Habib
Published: July 2014

We are interested in the following fractional boundary value problem:Dαu(t)+atuσ=0,t∈(0,∞),limt→0⁡t2-αu(t)=0,limt→∞⁡t1-αu(t)=0, where1<α<2,σ∈(-1,1),Dαis the standard Riemann-Liouville fractional derivative, andais a nonnegative continuous function on(0,∞)satisfying some appropriate assumptions related to Karamata regular variation theory. Using the Schauder fixed point theorem, we prove the existence and the uniqueness of a positive solution. We also give a global behavior of such solution.
Multimarker Screening of Oxidative Stress in Aging
Authors: Syslová Kamila , Böhmová Adéla , Mikoška Miloš , Kuzma Marek , Pelclová Daniela , Kačer Petr
Published: July 2014

Aging is a complex process of organism decline in physiological functions. There is no clear theory explaining this phenomenon, but the most accepted one is the oxidative stress theory of aging. Biomarkers of oxidative stress, substances, which are formed during oxidative damage of phospholipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, are present in body fluids of diseased people as well as the healthy ones (in a physiological concentration). 8-isoprostaglandin F2αis the most prominent biomarker of phospholipid oxidative damage,o-tyrosine, 3-chlorotyrosine, and 3-nitrotyrosine are biomarkers of protein oxidative damage, and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine and 8-hydroxyguanosine are biomarkers of oxidative damage of nucleic acids. It is thought that the concentration of biomarkers increases as the age of people increases. However, the concentration of biomarkers in body fluids is very low and, therefore, it is necessary to use a sensitive analytical method. A combination of HPLC and MS was chosen to determine biomarker concentration in three groups of healthy people of a different age (twenty, forty, and sixty years) in order to find a difference among the groups.
Quasisynchronization in Quorum Sensing Systems with Parameter Mismatches
Authors: Zhang Jianbao , Zhang Wenyin , Ma Zhongjun , Yu Jing
Published: July 2014

The paper investigates quasisynchronization in a communication system, which consists of cells communicating through quorum sensing. With the help of Lyapunov function method and Lur’e system approach, some sufficient conditions for quasisynchronization are presented, and a bound on the synchronization errors is derived. The obtained theoretical results show that the synchronization quality is influenced by two parameters detrimentally: the error bound depends almost linearly on the mismatches between cells and depends sensitively on the diffusion rates of the signals inward the cell membrane. Numerical experiments are carried out to verify the theoretical results.
Screening for Prediabetes Using Machine Learning Models
Authors: Choi Soo Beom , Kim Won Jae , Yoo Tae Keun , Park Jee Soo , Chung Jai Won , Lee Yong-ho , Kang Eun Seok , Kim Deok Won
Published: July 2014

The global prevalence of diabetes is rapidly increasing. Studies support the necessity of screening and interventions for prediabetes, which could result in serious complications and diabetes. This study aimed at developing an intelligence-based screening model for prediabetes. Data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) were used, excluding subjects with diabetes. The KNHANES 2010 data(n=4685)were used for training and internal validation, while data from KNHANES 2011(n=4566)were used for external validation. We developed two models to screen for prediabetes using an artificial neural network (ANN) and support vector machine (SVM) and performed a systematic evaluation of the models using internal and external validation. We compared the performance of our models with that of a screening score model based on logistic regression analysis for prediabetes that had been developed previously. The SVM model showed the areas under the curve of 0.731 in the external datasets, which is higher than those of the ANN model (0.729) and the screening score model (0.712), respectively. The prescreening methods developed in this study performed better than the screening score model that had been developed previously and may be more effective method for prediabetes screening.
Hesitant Triangular Fuzzy Information Aggregation Operators Based on Bonferroni Means and Their Application to Multiple Attribute Decision Making
Authors: Wang Chunyong , Li Qingguo , Zhou Xiaoqiang , Yang Tian
Published: July 2014

We investigate the multiple attribute decision-making (MADM) problems with hesitant triangular fuzzy information. Firstly, definition and some operational laws of hesitant triangular fuzzy elements are introduced. Then, we develop some hesitant triangular fuzzy aggregation operators based on Bonferroni means and discuss their basic properties. Some existing operators can be viewed as their special cases. Next, we apply the proposed operators to deal with multiple attribute decision-making problems under hesitant triangular fuzzy environment. Finally, an illustrative example is given to show the developed method and demonstrate its practicality and effectiveness.
MANOVA for Nested Designs with Unequal Cell Sizes and Unequal Cell Covariance Matrices
Authors: Xu Li-Wen
Published: July 2014

We propose and study parametric bootstrap (PB) tests for heteroscedastic two-factor MANOVA with nested designs. For the problem of testing “main effects” of both factors, we develop a flexible test based on a parametric bootstrap approach. The PB test is shown to be invariant under affine-transformations. Moreover, the PB test does not depend on the chosen weights used to define the parameters uniquely. The proposed test is compared with the approximate HotellingT2(AHT) test by the simulations. Simulation results indicate that the PB test performs satisfactorily for various cell sizes and parameter configurations and generally outperforms the AHT test in terms of controlling the nominal size. For the heteroscedastic cases, the PB test outperforms the AHT test in terms of power. In addition, the PB test does not lose too much power when the homogeneity assumption is actually valid.
Large Scale Simulation of Hydrogen Dispersion by a Stabilized Balancing Domain Decomposition Method
Authors: Yao Qing-He , Pan Xin
Published: July 2014

The dispersion behaviour of leaking hydrogen in a partially open space is simulated by a balancing domain decomposition method in this work. An analogy of the Boussinesq approximation is employed to describe the connection between the flow field and the concentration field. The linear systems of Navier-Stokes equations and the convection diffusion equation are symmetrized by a pressure stabilized Lagrange-Galerkin method, and thus a balancing domain decomposition method is enabled to solve the interface problem of the domain decomposition system. Numerical results are validated by comparing with the experimental data and available numerical results. The dilution effect of ventilation is investigated, especially at the doors, where flow pattern is complicated and oscillations appear in the past research reported by other researchers. The transient behaviour of hydrogen and the process of accumulation in the partially open space are discussed, and more details are revealed by large scale computation.
Design and Performance Evaluation of a Distributed OFDMA-Based MAC Protocol for MANETs
Authors: Park Jaesung , Chung Jiyoung , Lee Hyungyu , Lee Jung-Ryun
Published: July 2014

In this paper, we propose a distributed MAC protocol for OFDMA-based wireless mobile ad hoc multihop networks, in which the resource reservation and data transmission procedures are operated in a distributed manner. A frame format is designed considering the characteristics of OFDMA that each node can transmit or receive data to or from multiple nodes simultaneously. Under this frame structure, we propose a distributed resource management method including network state estimation and resource reservation processes. We categorize five types of logical errors according to their root causes and show that two of the logical errors are inevitable while three of them are avoided under the proposed distributed MAC protocol. In addition, we provide a systematic method to determine the advertisement period of each node by presenting a clear relation between the accuracy of estimated network states and the signaling overhead. We evaluate the performance of the proposed protocol in respect of the reservation success rate and the success rate of data transmission. Since our method focuses on avoiding logical errors, it could be easily placed on top of the other resource allocation methods focusing on the physical layer issues of the resource management problem and interworked with them.
Giant Bilateral Adrenal Myelolipoma with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
Authors: Al-Bahri S. , Tariq A. , Lowentritt B. , Nasrallah D. V.
Published: July 2014

Myelolipomas are rare and benign neoplasms, predominant of the adrenal glands, consisting of adipose and mature hematopoietic tissue, commonly discovered incidentally with increased use of radiologic imaging. Few cases of giant bilateral adrenal masses are reported, especially in the setting of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). We report the case of a 39-year-old male with a history of CAH secondary to 21-αhydroxylase deficiency on steroids since childhood, self-discontinued during adolescence, presenting with abdominal distension, fatigue, decreased libido, and easy bruising. Imaging revealed giant bilateral adrenal masses. He subsequently underwent bilateral adrenalectomy found to be myelolipomas measuring 30 × 25 × 20 cm on the left and weighing 4.1 kg and 25 × 20 × 13 cm on the right and weighing 2.7 kg. Adrenal myelolipomas are found to coexist with many other conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome, Addison’s disease, and CAH. We discuss the association with high adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) states and review the studies involving ACTH as proponent leading to myelolipomas. Massive growth of these tumors, as in our case, can produce compression and hemorrhagic symptoms. We believe it is possible that self-discontinuation of steroids, in the setting of CAH, may have resulted in the growth of his adrenal masses.
The Positive Role of Multiplicative Noise in Complete Synchronization of Unidirectionally Coupled Ring with Three Nodes
Authors: Xiao Yuzhu , Tang Sufang , Sun Zhongkui
Published: July 2014

The role of multiplicative noise in the synchronization of unidirectionally coupled ring with three nodes is studied. Based on the theory of stochastic differential equations, we demonstrate that noise plays a positive role in complete synchronization. In numerical simulations, the Lorenz system, Rössler like system, and Hindmarsh-Rose neuron model are employed to demonstrate the correctness of our theoretical result.
Target Image Matching Algorithm Based on Binocular CCD Ranging
Authors: Li Dongming , Su Wei , Yang Jinhua , Zhang Lijuan
Published: July 2014

This paper proposed target image in a subpixel level matching algorithm for binocular CCD ranging, which is based on the principle of binocular CCD ranging. In the paper, firstly, we introduced the ranging principle of the binocular ranging system and deduced a binocular parallax formula. Secondly, we deduced the algorithm which was named improved cross-correlation matching algorithm and cubic surface fitting algorithm for target images matched, and it could achieve a subpixel level matching for binocular CCD ranging images. Lastly, through experiment we have analyzed and verified the actual CCD ranging images, then analyzed the errors of the experimental results and corrected the formula of calculating system errors. Experimental results showed that the actual measurement accuracy of a target within 3 km was higher than 0.52%, which meet the accuracy requirements of the high precision binocular ranging.
Optimal Decisions in a Single‐Period Supply Chain with Price‐Sensitive Random Demand under a Buy‐Back Contract
Authors: Wang Feng , Choi In-Chan
Published: July 2014

This paper studies a single‐period supply chain with a buy‐back contract under a Stackelberg game model, in which the supplier (leader) decides on the wholesale price, and the retailer (follower) responds to determine the retail price and the order quantity. We analytically investigate the decentralized retailer’s optimal decision. Our results demonstrate that the retailer has a unique optimal simultaneous decision on the retail price and the order quantity, under a mild restriction on the demand distribution. Moreover, as it can be shown that the decentralized supply chain facing price‐sensitive random demand cannot be coordinated with buy‐back contract, we propose a scheme for the system to achieve Pareto‐improvement. Theoretical analysis suggests that there exists a unique Pareto‐equilibrium for the supply chain. In particular, when the Pareto‐equilibrium is reached, the supply chain is coordinated. Numerical experiments confirm our results.
Automated System for Kinetic Analysis of Particle Size Distributions for Pharmaceutically Relevant Systems
Authors: Green John-Bruce D. , Carter Phillip W. , Zhang Yingqing , Patel Dipa , Kotha Priyanka , Gonyon Thomas
Published: July 2014

Detailing the kinetics of particle formation for pharmaceutically relevant solutions is challenging, especially when considering the combination of formulations, containers, and timescales of clinical importance. This paper describes a method for using commercial software Automate with a stream-selector valve capable of sampling container solutions from within an environmental chamber. The tool was built to monitor changes in particle size distributions via instrumental particle counters but can be adapted to other solution-based sensors. The tool and methodology were demonstrated to be highly effective for measuring dynamic changes in emulsion globule distributions as a function of storage and mixing conditions important for parenteral nutrition. Higher levels of agitation induced the fastest growth of large globules (≥5 μm) while the gentler conditions actually showed a decrease in the number of these large globules. The same methodology recorded calcium phosphate precipitation kinetics as a function of [Ca2+] and pH. This automated system is readily adaptable to a wide range of pharmaceutically relevant systems where the particle size is expected to vary with time. This instrumentation can dramatically reduce the time and resources needed to probe complex formulation issues while providing new insights for monitoring the kinetics as a function of key variables.
Limit Cycle Bifurcations by Perturbing a Compound Loop with a Cusp and a Nilpotent Saddle
Authors: Tian Huanhuan , Han Maoan
Published: July 2014

We study the expansions of the first order Melnikov functions for general near-Hamiltonian systems near a compound loop with a cusp and a nilpotent saddle. We also obtain formulas for the first coefficients appearing in the expansions and then establish a bifurcation theorem on the number of limit cycles. As an application example, we give a lower bound of the maximal number of limit cycles for a polynomial system of Liénard type.
Modeling the Performance of Faulty Linear Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Mohamed Nader , Al-Jaroodi Jameela , Jawhar Imad
Published: July 2014

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are used to monitor long linear structures such as pipelines, rivers, railroads, international borders, and high power transmission cables. In this case, a special type of WSN called linear wireless sensor network (LSN) is used. One of the main challenges of using LSNs is the reliability of the connections across the nodes. Faults in a few contiguous nodes may cause the creation of holes (segments where nodes on either end of them cannot reach each other) which will result in dividing the network into multiple disconnected segments. As a result, sensor nodes that are located between holes may not be able to deliver their sensed information which negatively affects the network's sensing coverage. In this paper, we provide an analysis of the different types of node faults in uniformly deployed LSNs and study their negative impact on the sensing coverage. We develop an analytical model to estimate the sensing coverage in uniformly deployed sensors LSNs in the presence of node faults. We verify the correctness of the developed model by conducting a number of simulation experiments to compare both calculated and simulated results under different network configurations and fault scenarios. In addition, we use this model to demonstrate three design applications that meet with specific performance requirements.
Carbon Dioxide Absorption and Release Properties of Pyrolysis Products of Dolomite Calcined in Vacuum Atmosphere
Authors: Wang Fei , Kuzuya Toshihiro , Hirai Shinji , Li Jihua , Li Te
Published: July 2014

The decomposition of dolomite into CaO and MgO was performed at 1073 K in vacuum and at 1273 K in an Ar atmosphere. The dolomite calcined in vacuum was found to have a higher specific surface area and a higher micropore volume when compared to the dolomite calcined in the Ar atmosphere. These pyrolysis products of dolomite were reacted with CO2at 673 K for 21.6 ks. On the absorption of CO2, the formation of CaCO3was observed. The degree of absorption of the dolomite calcined in vacuum was determined to be above 50%, which was higher than the degree of absorption of the dolomite calcined in the Ar atmosphere. The CO2absorption and release procedures were repeated three times for the dolomite calcined in vacuum. The specific surface area and micropore volume of calcined dolomite decreased with successive repetitions of the CO2absorption and release cycles leading to a decrease in the degree of absorption of CO2.
A Molecular View of Autophagy in Lepidoptera
Authors: Romanelli Davide , Casati Barbara , Franzetti Eleonora , Tettamanti Gianluca
Published: July 2014

Metamorphosis represents a critical phase in the development of holometabolous insects, during which the larval body is completely reorganized: in fact, most of the larval organs undergo remodeling or completely degenerate before the final structure of the adult insect is rebuilt. In the past, increasing evidence emerged concerning the intervention of autophagy and apoptosis in the cell death processes that occur in larval organs of Lepidoptera during metamorphosis, but a molecular characterization of these pathways was undertaken only in recent years. In addition to developmentally programmed autophagy, there is growing interest in starvation-induced autophagy. Therefore we are now entering a new era of research on autophagy that foreshadows clarification of the role and regulatory mechanisms underlying this self-digesting process in Lepidoptera. Given that some of the most important lepidopteran species of high economic importance, such as the silkworm,Bombyx mori, belong to this insect order, we expect that this information on autophagy will be fully exploited not only in basic research but also for practical applications.
The Role of Age on Dose-Limiting Toxicities in Phase I Dose-Escalation Trials
Authors: Schwandt A. , Harris P.J. , Hunsberger S. , Deleporte A. , Smith G.L. , Vulih D. , Anderson B.D. , Ivy S.P.
Published: July 2014

Purpose: Elderly oncology patients are not enrolled in early-phase trials in proportion to the numbers of geriatric patients with cancer. There may be concern that elderly patients will not tolerate investigational agents as well as younger patients, resulting in a disproportionate number of dose-limiting toxicities (DLT). Recent single-institution studies provide conflicting data on the relationship between age and DLT.

Experimental Design: We retrospectively reviewed data about patients treated on single-agent, dose-escalation, phase I clinical trials sponsored by the Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP) of the National Cancer Institute. Patients' dose levels were described as a percentage of maximum tolerated dose, the highest dose level at which <33% of patients had a DLT, or recommended phase II dose (RP2D). Mixed-effect logistic regression models were used to analyze relationships between the probability of a DLT and age and other explanatory variables.

Results: Increasing dose, increasing age, and worsening performance status (PS) were significantly related to an increased probability of a DLT in this model (P < 0.05). There was no association between dose level administered and age (P = 0.57).

Conclusions: This analysis of phase I dose-escalation trials, involving more than 500 patients older than 70 years of age, is the largest reported. As age and dose level increased and PS worsened, the probability of a DLT increased. Although increasing age was associated with occurrence of DLT, this risk remained within accepted thresholds of risk for phase I trials. There was no evidence of age bias on enrollment of patients on low or high dose levels. Clin Cancer Res; 20(18); 4768–75. ©2014 AACR.
Antiproliferative Effects of CDK4/6 Inhibition inCDK4-Amplified Human LiposarcomaIn VitroandIn Vivo
Authors: Zhang Yi-Xiang , Sicinska Ewa , Czaplinski Jeffrey T. , Remillard Stephen P. , Moss Samuel , Wang Yuchuan , Brain Christopher , Loo Alice , Snyder Eric L. , Demetri George D. , Kim Sunkyu , Kung Andrew L. , Wagner Andrew J.
Published: July 2014

Well-differentiated/dedifferentiated liposarcomas (WD/DDLPS) are among the most common subtypes of soft tissue sarcomas. Conventional systemic chemotherapy has limited efficacy and novel therapeutic strategies are needed to achieve better outcomes for patients. The cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4) gene is highly amplified in more than 95% of WD/DDLPS. In this study, we explored the role of CDK4 and the effects of NVP-LEE011 (LEE011), a novel selective inhibitor of CDK4/CDK6, on a panel of human liposarcoma cell lines and primary tumor xenografts. We found that both CDK4 knockdown by siRNA and inhibition by LEE011 diminished retinoblastoma (RB) phosphorylation and dramatically decreased liposarcoma cell growth. Cell-cycle analysis demonstrated arrest at G0–G1. siRNA-mediated knockdown of RB rescued the inhibitory effects of LEE011, demonstrating that LEE011 decreased proliferation through RB. Oral administration of LEE011 to mice bearing human liposarcoma xenografts resulted in approximately 50% reduction in tumor 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake with decreased tumor biomarkers, including RB phosphorylation and bromodeoxyuridine incorporation in vivo. Continued treatment inhibited tumor growth or induced regression without detrimental effects on mouse weight. After prolonged continuous dosing, reestablishment of RB phosphorylation and cell-cycle progression was noted. These findings validate the critical role of CDK4 in maintaining liposarcoma proliferation through its ability to inactivate RB function, and suggest its potential function in the regulation of survival and metabolism of liposarcoma, supporting the rationale for clinical development of LEE011 for the treatment of WD/DDLPS. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(9); 2184–93. ©2014 AACR.
Las críticas de Kant al modelo teórico del estado westfaliano
Authors: Marey Macarena
Published: July 2014

Neste artigo defendo a tese de que a crítica de Kant ao quadro teórico que serviu para apoiar o Estado moderno westfaliano consiste em mostrar a conexão entre a ilegitimidade do decisionismo e os equívocos do positivismo jurídico. Para tanto, proponho uma estrutura do argumento geral de Kantiano contra as teorias jusnaturalistas racionais modernas da tradição grociano-hobbesiana extraída dos escritos políticos de Kant da década de 1790.
Atrial Natriuretic Peptide Locally Counteracts the Deleterious Effects of Cardiomyocyte Mineralocorticoid Receptor Activation
Authors: Nakagawa Hitoshi , Oberwinkler Heike , Nikolaev Viacheslav O. , Gaßner Birgit , Umbenhauer Sandra , Wagner Helga , Saito Yoshihiko , Baba Hideo A. , Frantz Stefan , Kuhn Michaela
Published: July 2014

Background—

The endocrine balance between atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system is critical for the maintenance of arterial blood pressure and volume homeostasis. This study investigated whether a cardiac imbalance between ANP and aldosterone, toward increased mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) signaling, contributes to adverse left ventricular remodeling in response to pressure overload.

Methods and Results—

We used the MR-selective antagonist eplerenone to test the role of MRs in mediating pressure overload–induced dilatative cardiomyopathy of mice with abolished local, cardiac ANP activity. In response to 21 days of transverse aortic constriction, mice with cardiomyocyte-restricted inactivation (knockout) of the ANP receptor (guanylyl cyclase [GC]-A) or the downstream cGMP-dependent protein kinase I developed enhanced left ventricular hypertrophy and fibrosis together with contractile dysfunction. Treatment with eplerenone (100 mg/kg/d) attenuated left ventricular hypertrophy and fully prevented fibrosis, dilatation, and failure. Transverse aortic constriction induced the cardiac expression of profibrotic connective tissue growth factor and attenuated the expression of SERCA2a (sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
-ATPase) in knockout mice, but not in controls. These genotype-dependent molecular changes were similarly prevented by eplerenone. ANP attenuated the aldosterone-induced nuclear translocation of MRs via GC-A/cGMP-dependent protein kinase I in transfected HEK 293 (human embryonic kidney) cells. Coimmunoprecipitation and fluorescence resonance energy transfer experiments demonstrated that a population of MRs were membrane associated in close interaction with GC-A and cGMP-dependent protein kinase I and, moreover, that aldosterone caused a conformational change of this membrane MR/GC-A protein complex which was prevented by ANP.

Conclusions—

ANP counter-regulates cardiac MR activation in hypertensive heart disease. An imbalance in cardiac ANP/GC-A (inhibition) and aldosterone/MR signaling (augmentation) favors adverse cardiac remodeling in chronic pressure overload.
Heart Failure With Anemia
Authors: O’Meara Eileen , Rouleau Jean L. , White Michel , Roy Karine , Blondeau Lucie , Ducharme Anique , Neagoe Paul-Eduard , Sirois Martin G. , Lavoie Joël , Racine Normand , Liszkowski Mark , Madore François , Tardif Jean-Claude , de Denus Simon ,   List of the ANCHOR Co-Principal Investigators:, Bergeron Dr , Dion Dr , Dupuis Dr , Giannetti Dr , Huynh Dr , Nadeau Dr
Published: July 2014

Background—

Anemia is a highly prevalent and strong independent prognostic marker in heart failure (HF), yet this association is not completely understood. Whether anemia is simply a marker of disease severity and concomitant chronic kidney disease or represents the activation of other detrimental pathways remains uncertain. We sought to determine which pathophysiological pathways are exacerbated in patients with HF, reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and anemia in comparison with those without anemia.

Methods and Results—

In a prospective study involving 151 patients, selected biomarkers were analyzed, each representing proposed contributive mechanisms in the pathophysiology of anemia in HF. We compared clinical, echocardiographic, and circulating biomarkers profiles among patients with HFrEF and anemia (group 1), HFrEF without anemia (group 2), and chronic kidney disease with preserved EF, without established HF (chronic kidney disease control group 3). We demonstrate here that many processes other than those related to chronic kidney disease are involved in the anemia–HF relationship. These are linked to the pathophysiological mechanisms pertaining to left ventricular systolic dysfunction and remodeling, systemic inflammation and volume overload. We found that levels of interleukin-6 and interleukin-10, specific markers of cardiac remodeling (procollagen type III N-terminal peptide, matrix metalloproteinase-2, tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase 1, left atrial volume), myocardial stretch (NT-proBNP [N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide]), and myocyte death (troponin T) are related to anemia in HFrEF.

Conclusions—

Anemia is strongly associated not only with markers of more advanced and active heart disease but also with the level of renal dysfunction in HFrEF. Increased myocardial remodeling, inflammation, and volume overload are the hallmarks of patients with anemia and HF.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00834691.