bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary adrenal lymphoma with initial presentation concerning for bilateral adrenal pheochromocytomas
Authors: Joseph Flavian Grace , Cook Sheila , Gowda Durgesh
Published: August 2017

Primary adrenal non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is rarely encountered. Clinical presentation is non-specific with fatigue, abdominal pain and B-symptoms being more commonly reported. We report a case of primary bilateral adrenal lymphoma who initially presented with clinical features suspicious for pheochromocytoma. The patient was recently diagnosed with hypertension and had a family history of early ischaemic heart disease. Plasma free metanephrines were also elevated. Pheochromocytoma was deemed unlikely following multiple investigations and the diagnosis of lymphoma was made following adrenal biopsy. Partial response was noted on positron emission tomography CT scan following four cycles of chemotherapy but failed to remit after six cycles of chemotherapy. Subsequently, he received 20 fractions of radiation to his adrenal glands and is now awaiting further imaging. The presentation of primary adrenal lymphoma can be variable and given that the diagnosis is obtained through tissue sampling, pheochromocytoma should be excluded due to risk of a potentially fatal adrenergic crisis.
A content analysis of the representation of statins in the British newsprint media
Authors: Chisnell Julia , Marshall Tom , Hyde Chris , Zhelev Zhivko , Fleming Lora E
Published: August 2017

Objective

This study reviewed the news media coverage of statins, seeking to identify specific trends or differences in viewpoint between media outlets and examine common themes.

Design

The study is a content analysis of the frequency and content of the reporting of statins in a selection of the British newsprint media. It involved an assessment of the number, timing and thematic content of articles followed by a discourse analysis examining the underlying narratives. The sample was the output of four UK newspapers, covering a broad-spectrum readership, over a six month timeframe 1 October 2013 to 31 March 2014.

Results

A total of 67 articles included reference to statins. The majority (39, 58%) were reporting or responding to publication of a clinical study. The ratio of negative to positive coverage was greater than 2:1 overall. In the more politically right-leaning newspapers, 67% of coverage was predominantly negative (30/45 articles); 32% in the more left-leaning papers (7/22 articles). Common themes were the perceived ‘medicalisation’ of the population; the balance between lifestyle modification and medical treatments in the primary prevention of heart disease; side effects and effectiveness of statins; pharmaceutical sponsorship and implications for the reliability of evidence; trust between the public and government, institutions, research organisations and the medical profession.

Conclusions

Newsprint media coverage of statins was substantially influenced by the publication of national guidance and by coverage in the medical journals of clinical studies and comment. Statins received a predominantly negative portrayal, notably in the more right-leaning press. There were shared themes: concern about the balance between medication and lifestyle change in the primary prevention of heart disease; the adverse effects of treatment; and a questioning of the reliability of evidence from research institutions, scientists and clinicians in the light of their potential allegiances and funding.
Multiple treatment comparison of seven new drugs for patients with advanced malignant melanoma: a systematic review and health economic decision model in a Norwegian setting
Authors: Pike Eva , Hamidi Vida , Saeterdal Ingvil , Odgaard-Jensen Jan , Klemp Marianne
Published: August 2017

Objective

To assess the relative effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of seven new drugs (cobimetinib, dabrafenib, ipilimumab, nivolumab, pembrolizumab, trametinib and vemurafenib) used for treatment of patients with advanced malignant melanoma in the Norwegian setting.

Design

A multiple technology assessment.

Patients

Patients with advanced malignant melanoma aged 18 or older.

Data sources

A systematic search for randomised controlled trials in relevant bibliographic databases.

Methods

We performed network meta-analyses using both direct and indirect evidence with dacarbazine as a common comparator. We ranked the different treatments in terms of their likelihood of leading to the best results for each endpoint. The cost-utility analysis was based on a probabilistic discrete-time Markov cohort model. The model calculated the costs and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) with different treatment strategies from a healthcare perspective. Sensitivity analysis was performed by means of Monte Carlo simulation.

Results

Monotherapies with a programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) immune-checkpoint-inhibitor had a higher probability of good performance for overall survival than monotherapies with ipilimumab or BRAF/MEK inhibitors. The combination treatments had all similar levels of effectiveness to the PD-1 immune-checkpoint-inhibitors.

PD-1 immune-checkpoint-inhibitors are more effective and more costly compared with ipilimumab in monotherapy. Nivolumab in combination with ipilimumab had higher costs and the same level of effectiveness as the PD-1 immune-checkpoint-inhibitors in monotherapy.

BRAF/MEK inhibitor combinations (dabrafenib and trametinib or vemurafenib and cobimetinib) had both similar effectiveness and cost-effectiveness; however, the combination therapies are more likely to give higher quality adjusted life year gains than BRAF or MEK inhibitor monotherapies, but to a higher cost.

Conclusions

None of the drugs investigated can be considered cost-effective at what has normally been considered a reasonable willingness-to-pay (WTP) in Norway. Price reductions (from the official list prices) in the region of 63%–84% would be necessary for these drugs to be cost-effective at a WTP of €55 850 per QALY.
National audit of pressure ulcers and incontinence-associated dermatitis in hospitals across Wales: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Clark Michael , Semple Martin J , Ivins Nicola , Mahoney Kirsten , Harding Keith
Published: August 2017

Objective

The Chief Nurse National Health Service Wales initiated a national survey of acute and community hospital patients in Wales to identify the prevalence of pressure ulcers and incontinence-associated dermatitis.

Methods

Teams of two nurses working independently assessed the skin of each inpatient who consented to having their skin observed.

Results

Over 28 September 2015 to 2nd October 2015, 8365 patients were assessed across 66 hospitals with 748 (8.9%) found to have pressure ulcers. Not all patients had their skin inspected with all mental health patients exempt from this part of the audit along with others who did not consent or were too ill. Of the patients with pressure ulcers, 593 (79.3%) had their skin inspected with 158 new pressure ulcers encountered that were not known to ward staff, while 152 pressure ulcers were incorrectly categorised by the ward teams. Incontinence-associated dermatitis was encountered in 360 patients (4.3%), while medical device-related pressure ulcers were rare (n=33). The support surfaces used while patients were in bed were also recorded to provide a baseline against which future changes in equipment procurement could be assessed. The presence of other wounds was also recorded with 2537 (30.3%) of all hospital patients having one or more skin wounds.

Conclusions

This survey has demonstrated that although complex, it is feasible to undertake national surveys of pressure ulcers, incontinence-associated dermatitis and other wounds providing comprehensive and accurate data to help plan improvements in wound care across Wales.
Extracellular cardiac matrix biomarkers in patients with reduced ejection fraction heart failure as predictors of response to cardiac resynchronisation therapy: a systematic review
Authors: McAloon Christopher J , Ali Danish , Hamborg Thomas , Banerjee Prithwish , O'Hare Paul , Randeva Harpal , Osman Faizel
Published: August 2017

Objective

Cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) is an effective therapy for selected patients with heart failure (HF); however, a significant non-response rate exists. We examined current evidence on extracellular cardiac matrix (ECM) biomarkers in predicting response following CRT.

Methods

Complete literature review of PubMed, Ovid SP MEDLINE, Cochrane Library and TRIP, reference lists, international cardiology conferences and ongoing studies between December 1999 and December 2015 conducted according to prospectively registered study selection and analysis criteria (PROSPERO:CRD42016025864) was performed. All observational and randomised control trials (RCT) were included if they tested prespecified ECM biomarkers’ ability to predict CRT response. Risk of bias assessment and data extraction determined pooling of included studies was not feasible due to heterogeneity of the selected studies.

Results

A total of 217 studies were screened; six (five prospective cohort and one RCT substudy) were included in analysis with 415 participants in total. Study sizes varied (n=55–260), cohort characteristics contrasted (male: 67.8%–83.6%, ischaemic aetiology: 40.2%–70.3%) and CRT response definitions differed (three clinical/functional, three echocardiographic). Consistent observation in all ECM biomarker behaviour before and after CRT implantation was not observed between studies. Lower type I and type III collagen synthesis biomarkers (N-terminal propeptides of type I and III procollagens) expression demonstrated replicated ability to predict reverse left ventricular remodelling.

Conclusion

Collagen synthesis biomarkers offer the most potential as ECM biomarkers for predicting CRT response. Heterogeneity between these studies was large and limited the ability to pool and compare results numerically. Use of different response definitions was one of the biggest challenges.
Traumatic soft tissue injury in a male alpaca
Authors: Oultram J W H , Coates A N
Published: August 2017

This case describes the sedation, surgical and medical management of wounds sustained by a male alpaca after an attack by a large dog. A large axillary wound was sustained and treated to facilitate healing by secondary intention; additionally the prepuce was torn and the penis prolapsed, necessitating a novel approach for its repositioning. The case includes an appropriate sedation protocol for restraint, doses for antibiosis and analgesia. Subsequent failure of the penile replacement and the need for urethrostomy and its management are described, as well as management of the postoperative azotaemia which subsequently developed and required intravenous fluid therapy, management of a concurrent hyperglycaemia and successful resolution of all problems. The alpaca has fully recovered and been returned to its herd.
Ipsilateral corticomotor responses are confined to the homologous muscle following cross-education of muscular strength
Authors: Mason Joel , Frazer Ashlyn K. , Horvath Deanna M. , Pearce Alan J. , Avela Janne , Howatson Glyn , Kidgell Dawson J.
Published: August 2017

Cross-education of strength occurs when strength-training 1 limb increases the strength of the untrained limb and is restricted to the untrained homologous muscle. Cortical circuits located ipsilateral to the trained limb might be involved. We used transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to determine the corticomotor responses from the untrained homologous (biceps brachii) and nonhomologous (flexor carpi radialis) muscle following strength-training of the right elbow flexors. Motor evoked potentials were recorded from the untrained left biceps brachii and flexor carpi radialis during a submaximal contraction from 20 individuals (10 women, 10 men; aged 18–35 years; training group, n = 10; control group, n = 10) before and after 3 weeks of strength-training the right biceps brachii at 80% of 1-repetition maximum. Recruitment-curves for corticomotor excitability and inhibition of the untrained homologous and nonhomologous muscle were constructed and assessed by examining the area under the recruitment curve. Strength-training increased strength of the trained elbow flexors (29%), resulting in an 18% increase in contralateral strength of the untrained elbow flexors (P < 0.0001). The trained wrist flexors increased by 19%, resulting in a 12% increase in strength of the untrained wrist flexors (P = 0.005). TMS showed increased corticomotor excitability and decreased corticomotor inhibition for the untrained homologous muscle (P < 0.05); however, there were no changes in the untrained nonhomologous muscle (P > 0.05). These findings show that the cross-education of muscular strength is spatially distributed; however, the neural adaptations are confined to the motor pathway ipsilateral to the untrained homologous agonist.
Nitrous oxide emissions from Norway spruce forests on drained organic and mineral soil
Authors: Aurangojeb Mohammad , Klemedtsson Leif , Rütting Tobias , He Hongxing , Weslien Per , Banzhaf Stefan , Kasimir Åsa
Published: August 2017

Nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from drained organic (Histosol) and mineral (Umbrisol) soils having a 60 year old Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) forest in a catchment in southwest Sweden were measured using static closed chambers every other week over 3 years (August 2010 – July 2013). High emissions were observed during the summer months for both sites, which were significantly higher for the drained organic soils compared to the mineral soils: average emissions of 49.0 ± 3.3 and 8.0 ± 3.3 μg N2O·m−2·h−1, respectively. As the experiment was designed to have similar forest and weather conditions for both sites, these were omitted as explanatory factors for the emission difference. Initially, the soil organic matter concentration (percent by mass) difference was thought to be the cause. However, the results found that the soil organic matter amount per square metre of top soil was similar at both sites, suggesting other possible explanations. We propose that the most plausible explanation is that higher tree growth and mycorrhizal nitrogen demand reduce nitrogen availability contributing to the lower N2O emissions from the mineral soil site.
Nonstructural carbohydrate-balance response to long-term elevated CO2 exposure in European beech and Norway spruce mixed cultures: biochemical and ultrastructural responses
Authors: Mašková Petra , Radochová Barbora , Lhotáková Zuzana , Michálek Jan , Lipavská Helena
Published: August 2017

Two dominant central European tree species (Fagus sylvatica L. and Picea abies (L.) Karst.), in a mixed culture in semi-open glass domes, were used to simulate the reaction of forests to long-term elevated CO2 (EC) in a mountainous area (Beskydy Mountains, the Czech Republic). We investigated the effects of EC on soluble carbohydrate levels and composition. Starch content was evaluated using two methods: biochemical (glucose content after enzymatic hydrolysis) and stereological (starch grain proportion, size, and number in chloroplasts). In beech and spruce foliage, no significant changes in total soluble carbohydrate levels were observed. In spruce, starch content determined biochemically increased under EC, whereas no changes were detected in beech. The starch content determined stereologically increased only in beech. In spruce, EC exposure caused comparable starch increases in current-year and previous-year needles, although the former had a higher starch content and numerous larger starch grains regardless of CO2 concentration. In both species, the biochemical determination of carbohydrates exhibited greater individual tree uniformity, in contrast to large intraspecies variability. No changes in leaf soluble carbohydrates under long-term elevated CO2 demonstrate the ability of the studied tree species to efficiently allocate the photosynthates among the sinks. Thus, no photosynthetic downregulation via carbohydrate-level signalling can be expected.
Identification of distinct haemocyte populations from the freshwater bivalves swan mussel (Anodontacygnea) and duck mussel (Anodontaanatina) using wheat-germ agglutinin
Authors: Hinzmann M. , Lopes-Lima M. , Cerca F. , Correia A. , Machado J. , Vilanova M.
Published: August 2017

Haemocytes play a major role in molluscs immunity. Functional studies are, however, impaired by limited available experimental tools to identify and sort distinct haemocyte populations. Therefore, using nonlethal methods, we aimed at evaluating whether lectin staining combined with flow cytometry could be used to distinguish circulating haemocyte populations from two freshwater bivalves of the family Unionidae, the duck mussel (Anodonta anatina (L., 1758)) and the swan mussel (Anodonta cygnea (L., 1758)). Based on classical classification, haemocytes were distinguished as granulocytes and hyalinocytes and cytological features were visualized using transmission microscopy and staining techniques. Size, granularity, viability, and surface staining using lectins as specific probes were analysed by flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy. The microscopic proportions of granulocytes and hyalinocytes significantly differed, being of 70% and 30% for A. cygnea and of 85% and 15% for A. anatina, respectively. Two haemocyte populations were sorted by flow cytometry based on size and granularity and confirmed as granulocytes and hyalinocytes. Interestingly, two different granulocyte populations could be further discriminated in A. cygnea according to their binding affinity to wheat-germ agglutinin (WGA), whereas granulocytes of A. anatina all stained similarly. Our results show that WGA labelling combined with flow cytometry can be used to better discriminate Anodonta haemocyte populations and obtain purified populations for functional studies.
Syk-Mediated Suppression of Inflammatory Responses by Cordyceps bassiana
Authors: Yang Woo Seok , Nam Gyeong Sug , Kim Mi-Yeon , Cho Jae Youl
Published: August 2017

The fruit body of artificially cultivated Cordyceps bassiana has been reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities. Although it has been suggested that the fruit body has neutraceutic and pharmaceutic biomaterial potential, the exact anti-inflammatory molecular mechanism has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we demonstrated the immunopharmacologic activity of Cordyceps bassiana under in vitro conditions and investigated its anti-inflammatory mechanism. Water extract (Cm-WE) of the fruit body of artificially cultivated Cordyceps bassiana without polysaccharide fractions reduced the expression of the proinflammatory genes cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, interleukin (IL)-12, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and promoted the expression of the anti-inflammatory gene IL-10 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated RAW264.7 cells. In addition, this fraction suppressed proliferation and interferon (IFN)-[Formula: see text] production in splenic T lymphocytes. Cm-WE blocked the activation of nuclear factor (NF)-[Formula: see text]B and activator protein (AP)-1 and their upstream inflammatory signaling cascades, including Syk, MEK, and JNK. Using kinase assays, Syk was identified as the target enzyme most strongly inhibited by Cm-WE. These results strongly suggest that Cm-WE suppresses inflammatory responses by inhibiting Syk kinase activity, with potential implications for novel neutraceutic and pharmaceutic biomaterials.
The viability of phantom dark energy: A review
Authors: Ludwick Kevin J.
Published: August 2017

In this brief review, we examine the theoretical consistency and viability of phantom dark energy. Almost all data sets from cosmological probes are compatible with the dark energy of the phantom variety (i.e. equation-of-state parameter [Formula: see text]) and may even favor evolving dark energy, and since we expect every physical entity to have some kind of field description, we set out to examine the case for phantom dark energy as a field theory. We discuss the many attempts at frameworks that may mitigate and eliminate theoretical pathologies associated with phantom dark energy. We also examine frameworks that provide an apparent measurement [Formula: see text] while avoiding the need for a phantom field theory.
Light charged Higgs boson scenario in 3-Higgs doublet models
Authors: Akeroyd A. G. , Moretti Stefano , Yagyu Kei , Yildirim Emine
Published: August 2017

The constraints from the measurements of the [Formula: see text] decay rate on the parameter space of 3-Higgs Doublet Models (3HDMs), where all the doublets have nonzero vacuum expectation values, are studied at the next-to-leading order in QCD. In order to naturally avoid the presence of flavour changing neutral currents at the tree level, we impose two softly-broken discrete [Formula: see text] symmetries. This gives rise to five independent types of 3HDMs that differ in their Yukawa couplings. We show that in all these 3HDMs (including the case of type-II-like Yukawa interactions) both masses of the two charged Higgs bosons [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] can be smaller than the top mass [Formula: see text] while complying with the constraints from [Formula: see text]. As an interesting phenomenological consequence, the branching ratios of the charged Higgs bosons decay into the [Formula: see text] final states can be as large as [Formula: see text] when their masses are taken to be below [Formula: see text] in two of the five 3HDMs (named as Type-Y and Type-Z). This light charged Higgs boson scenario provides a hallmark 3HDM signature that cannot be realised in [Formula: see text] symmetric 2-Higgs doublet models. We find that in the Type-Y and Type-Z 3HDMs the scenario with [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] is ruled out by the direct searches at the LHC, but in the Type-Y 3HDM [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is allowed by [Formula: see text] and direct searches at LEP2, Tevatron and LHC due to the reduced sensitivity of these searches to the degenerate case [Formula: see text]. The cases where only one or both charged Higgs bosons are above the top quark mass are also naturally allowed in the both Type-Y and Type-Z 3HDMs.
Three-dimensional Monte Carlo simulations of materials on the physical deposition process
Authors: Drize Abbas , Settaouti Abderrahmane
Published: August 2017

The sputtering technique is largely used for the deposition of thin layers. In this study, the Monte Carlo (MC) method combined with the binary collision theory of hard spheres is used to simulate the energy, direction and topology of the film deposit. The effects of several parameters such as the substrate, target, pressure and the distance between substrate and target were analyzed. Our results showed that for large pressures or distances, energy and angular distributions are uniform and consequently the obtained film will be uniform. The obtained results are in agreement with other works, which validates our calculations.
Frequency-degenerate parametric generation through IFWM effect in nanowaveguides
Authors: Liu Mulong , Wang Leiran , Sun Qibing , Wang Weiqiang , Wang Guoxi , Li Siqi , Zhang Lingxuan , Zhang Wenfu , Hu Xiaohong , Gong Yongkang , Zhao Wei
Published: August 2017

We investigate highly efficient frequency-degenerate parametric generation through inverse four-wave-mixing (IFWM) in silicon nanowaveguides, which exhibits distinctly from traditional FWM phenomenon and manifests itself as a unique process producing signal and idler photon pairs with frequencies at the center of two pumps. The influences of dispersion, nonlinear coefficient and frequency detuning on the IFWM process are numerically analyzed in detail. On this basis, the optimal condition for high gain IFWM and the nanowaveguide with high nonlinearity and large normal dispersion are proposed. These results substantiate the feasibility of such frequency-degenerate parametric generation in CMOS-compatible integrated platforms, which could find important potential in signal-processing systems for photonics networks and entangled qubits generation for quantum optics.
Can we use thermodynamics in the systems with gravity?
Authors: Melkikh A. V. , Melkikh E. A.
Published: August 2017

It is shown that the thermodynamical parameters (temperature, pressure, entropy) as well as the concept of “thermodynamical equilibrium”, in general, cannot be introduced for systems with long-range interactions (gravity). Exceptions are dense systems (stars, planets, gas clouds), where the local equilibrium is caused by short-range forces, as well as by the creation and annihilation of photons. Local equilibrium can also be justified for cosmic microwave background radiation. It is shown that, despite the fact that the radiation of a black hole approximately corresponds to the radiation of a black body, it is impossible to introduce entropy and temperature of a black hole. Restrictions for the application of the thermodynamic parameters to the evolution of the universe as a whole are considered.
Discrete-time feedback stabilization for hybrid neutral stochastic systems
Authors: Bai Ling , Li Qingzhong , Xu Honglei , Zhang Qian , Zhang Yi
Published: August 2017

In this paper, we study the exponential stabilization problem in [Formula: see text]th moment of hybrid neutral stochastic systems by discrete-time feedback controls. By extending Mao’s method, we first derive an upper bound of state observation duration of the corresponding systems with continuous-time state observation feedback controls. We further establish exponential stabilization conditions in [Formula: see text]th moment for the hybrid neutral stochastic system. The obtained results have potential applications to stabilize practical hybrid systems with interconnected stochastic oscillators.
Nature, Nurture, and Cancer Risks: Genetic and Nutritional Contributions to Cancer
Authors: Theodoratou Evropi , Timofeeva Maria , Li Xue , Meng Xiangrui , Ioannidis John P.A.
Published: August 2017

It is speculated that genetic variants are associated with differential responses to nutrients (known as gene–diet interactions) and that these variations may be linked to different cancer risks. In this review, we critically evaluate the evidence across 314 meta-analyses of observational studies and randomized controlled trials of dietary risk factors and the five most common cancers (breast, lung, prostate, colorectal, and stomach). We also critically evaluate the evidence across 13 meta-analyses of observational studies of gene–diet interactions for the same cancers. Convincing evidence for association was found only for the intake of alcohol and whole grains in relation to colorectal cancer risk. Three nutrient associations had highly suggestive evidence and another 15 associations had suggestive evidence. Among the examined gene–diet interactions, only one had moderately strong evidence.
Coffee, Caffeine, and Health Outcomes: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Grosso Giuseppe , Godos Justyna , Galvano Fabio , Giovannucci Edward L.
Published: August 2017

To evaluate the associations between coffee and caffeine consumption and various health outcomes, we performed an umbrella review of the evidence from meta-analyses of observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Of the 59 unique outcomes examined in the selected 112 meta-analyses of observational studies, coffee was associated with a probable decreased risk of breast, colorectal, colon, endometrial, and prostate cancers; cardiovascular disease and mortality; Parkinson's disease; and type-2 diabetes. Of the 14 unique outcomes examined in the 20 selected meta-analyses of observational studies, caffeine was associated with a probable decreased risk of Parkinson's disease and type-2 diabetes and an increased risk of pregnancy loss. Of the 12 unique acute outcomes examined in the selected 9 meta-analyses of RCTs, coffee was associated with a rise in serum lipids, but this result was affected by significant heterogeneity, and caffeine was associated with a rise in blood pressure. Given the spectrum of conditions studied and the robustness of many of the results, these findings indicate that coffee can be part of a healthful diet.
Locality-Based Visual Outlier Detection Algorithm for Time Series
Authors: Li Zhihua , Li Ziyuan , Yu Ning , Wen Steven
Published: August 2017

Physiological theories indicate that the deepest impression for time series data with respect to the human visual system is its extreme value. Based on this principle, by researching the strategies of extreme-point-based hierarchy segmentation, the hierarchy-segmentation-based data extraction method for time series, and the ideas of locality outlier, a novel outlier detection model and method for time series are proposed. The presented algorithm intuitively labels an outlier factor to each subsequence in time series such that the visual outlier detection gets relatively direct. The experimental results demonstrate the average advantage of the developed method over the compared methods and the efficient data reduction capability for time series, which indicates the promising performance of the proposed method and its practical application value.
Modified Approach for Optimization of Real Life Transportation Problem in Neutrosophic Environment
Authors: Singh Akanksha , Kumar Amit , Appadoo S. S.
Published: August 2017

To the best of our knowledge, there is only one approach for solving neutrosophic cost minimization transportation problems. Since neutrosophic transportation problems are a new area of research, other researchers may be attracted to extend this approach for solving other types of neutrosophic transportation problems like neutrosophic solid transportation problems, neutrosophic time minimization transportation problems, neutrosophic transshipment problems, and so on. However, after a deep study of the existing approach, it is noticed that a mathematical incorrect assumption has been used in these existing approaches; therefore there is a need to modify these existing approaches. Keeping the same in mind, in this paper, the existing approach is modified. Furthermore, the exact results of some existing transportation problems are obtained by the modified approach.
Hybrid Differential Evolution Optimisation for Earth Observation Satellite Scheduling with Time‐Dependent Earliness‐Tardiness Penalties
Authors: Li Guoliang , Chen Cheng , Yao Feng , He Renjie , Chen Yingwu
Published: August 2017

We study the order acceptance and scheduling (OAS) problem with time‐dependent earliness‐tardiness penalties in a single agile earth observation satellite environment where orders are defined by their release dates, available processing time windows ranging from earliest start date to deadline, processing times, due dates, sequence‐dependent setup times, and revenues. The objective is to maximise total revenue, where the revenue from an order is a piecewise linear function of its earliness and tardiness with reference to its due date. We formulate this problem as a mixed integer linear programming model and develop a novel hybrid differential evolution (DE) algorithm under self‐adaptation framework to solve this problem. Compared with classical DE, hybrid DE employs two mutation operations, scaling factor adaptation and crossover probability adaptation. Computational tests indicate that the proposed algorithm outperforms classical DE in addition to two other variants of DE.
Associated Factors with Biochemical Hypoglycemia during an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test in a Chinese Population
Authors: Cai Xiaoling , Han Xueyao , Zhou Xianghai , Zhou Lingli , Zhang Simin , Ji Linong
Published: August 2017

Aim. To find the association between biochemical hypoglycemia on a 2-hour screening oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and insulin resistance. Method. Subjects of this study were sampled from the China National Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders Study that was conducted during 2007 and 2008. Blood samples were drawn at 0, 30, and 120 minutes after the glucose load. Biochemical hypoglycemia was defined as 2-hour glucose < 3.0 mmol/l. Results. In total, 26,606 participants were included, and 141 participants were diagnosed with biochemical hypoglycemia on a 2-hour OGTT. Compared to participants with normal glucose tolerance (NGT), participants with biochemical hypoglycemia presented with a younger age, lower BMI, lower levels of fasting glucose, and lower levels of 30-minute and 2-hour OGTT glucose. In terms of insulin resistance, participants with biochemical hypoglycemia showed higher levels of Matsuda ISI. In terms of β-cell function, participants with biochemical hypoglycemia showed higher levels of Stumvoll early and late indexes. A multivariate regression analysis indicated that higher levels of Matsuda ISI and higher levels of Stumvoll early and late indexes were associated with biochemical hypoglycemia independently. Conclusion. This study indicated that biochemical hypoglycemia might be associated with lower levels of insulin resistance but higher levels of β-cell function in a Chinese population.
Big Bang as a Critical Point
Authors: Mielczarek Jakub
Published: August 2017

This article addresses the issue of possible gravitational phase transitions in the early universe. We suggest that a second-order phase transition observed in the Causal Dynamical Triangulations approach to quantum gravity may have a cosmological relevance. The phase transition interpolates between a nongeometric crumpled phase of gravity and an extended phase with classical properties. Transition of this kind has been postulated earlier in the context of geometrogenesis in the Quantum Graphity approach to quantum gravity. We show that critical behavior may also be associated with a signature change in Loop Quantum Cosmology, which occurs as a result of quantum deformation of the hypersurface deformation algebra. In the considered cases, classical space-time originates at the critical point associated with a second-order phase transition. Relation between the gravitational phase transitions and the corresponding change of symmetry is underlined.
Analysis of Epidemiology and Risk Factors of Atopic Dermatitis in Korean Children and Adolescents from the 2010 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Lee Kyung Suk , Oh In-Hwan , Choi Sun Hee , Rha Yeong-Ho
Published: August 2017

Background. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease, but only few studies involved samples of children and adolescents that are representative of the entire Korean population. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and risk factors of AD among children and adolescents in Korea by using nationally representative data. Methods. We used data from the fifth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in 2010 and retrospectively evaluated 2,116 children and adolescents. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the relationship between AD and other variables, including IgE levels. Results. The prevalence rate of AD in children and adolescents was 15.0%. In the multivariate analysis of ages from 1 to 18 years, age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.96; p<0.01) was related to AD. From age of 12 to 18 years, smoking (aOR, 8.99; p<0.01) and elevated total IgE serum level (aOR, 5.31; p<0.01) were related to AD. Conclusion. Age, smoking, and elevated total IgE level were related to AD in the children and adolescents. Thus, an antismoking policy and public education are necessary for reducing the prevalence of allergic diseases. In addition, measurement of total IgE level and age may be helpful in the diagnosis of AD.
Improved Finite Beam Element Method to Analyze the Natural Vibration of Steel-Concrete Composite Truss Beam
Authors: Lai Zhipeng , Jiang Lizhong , Zhou Wangbao , Chai Xilin
Published: August 2017

Based on Hamilton’s principle, this study has developed a continuous treatment for the steel-concrete composite truss beam (SCCTB). It has also deduced the SCCTB element stiffness matrix and mass matrix, which include the effects of interface slip, shear deformation, moment of inertia, and many other influencing factors. A finite beam element method (FBEM) program for SCCTB’s natural vibration frequency has been developed and used to calculate the natural vibration frequencies of several SCCTBs with different spans and different degrees of shear connections. The FBEM’s calculation results of several SCCTBs agree well with the results obtained from ANSYS. Based on the results of this study, the following conclusions can be drawn. For the SCCTB with high-order natural vibration frequency and with short span, the effect of the shear deformation is greater. Hence, the effect of the shear deformation on the SCCTB’s high-order natural vibration frequency cannot be ignored. On the other hand, the effect of the interface slip on the SCCTB’s high-order natural vibration frequency is insignificant. However, the effect of the interface slip on the SCCTB’s low-order natural vibration frequency cannot be ignored.
Dreibein as Prepotential for Three-Dimensional Yang-Mills Theory
Authors: Mitra Indrajit , Sharatchandra H. S.
Published: August 2017

We advocate and develop the use of the dreibein (and the metric) as prepotential for three-dimensional SO(3) Yang-Mills theory. Since the dreibein transforms homogeneously under gauge transformation, the metric is gauge invariant. For a generic gauge potential, there is a unique dreibein on fixing the boundary condition. Topologically nontrivial monopole configurations are given by conformally flat metrics, with scalar fields capturing the monopole centres. Our approach also provides an ansatz for the gauge potential covering the topological aspects.
Chaotic Image Encryption Algorithm Based on Bit Permutation and Dynamic DNA Encoding
Authors: Zhang Xuncai , Han Feng , Niu Ying
Published: August 2017

With the help of the fact that chaos is sensitive to initial conditions and pseudorandomness, combined with the spatial configurations in the DNA molecule’s inherent and unique information processing ability, a novel image encryption algorithm based on bit permutation and dynamic DNA encoding is proposed here. The algorithm first uses Keccak to calculate the hash value for a given DNA sequence as the initial value of a chaotic map; second, it uses a chaotic sequence to scramble the image pixel locations, and the butterfly network is used to implement the bit permutation. Then, the image is coded into a DNA matrix dynamic, and an algebraic operation is performed with the DNA sequence to realize the substitution of the pixels, which further improves the security of the encryption. Finally, the confusion and diffusion properties of the algorithm are further enhanced by the operation of the DNA sequence and the ciphertext feedback. The results of the experiment and security analysis show that the algorithm not only has a large key space and strong sensitivity to the key but can also effectively resist attack operations such as statistical analysis and exhaustive analysis.
Optimal Parameter Selection for Support Vector Machine Based on Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm: A Case Study of Grid-Connected PV System Power Prediction
Authors: Gao Xiang-ming , Yang Shi-feng , Pan San-bo
Published: August 2017

Predicting the output power of photovoltaic system with nonstationarity and randomness, an output power prediction model for grid-connected PV systems is proposed based on empirical mode decomposition (EMD) and support vector machine (SVM) optimized with an artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm. First, according to the weather forecast data sets on the prediction date, the time series data of output power on a similar day with 15-minute intervals are built. Second, the time series data of the output power are decomposed into a series of components, including some intrinsic mode components IMFn and a trend component Res, at different scales using EMD. The corresponding SVM prediction model is established for each IMF component and trend component, and the SVM model parameters are optimized with the artificial bee colony algorithm. Finally, the prediction results of each model are reconstructed, and the predicted values of the output power of the grid-connected PV system can be obtained. The prediction model is tested with actual data, and the results show that the power prediction model based on the EMD and ABC-SVM has a faster calculation speed and higher prediction accuracy than do the single SVM prediction model and the EMD-SVM prediction model without optimization.
Astilbin from Smilax glabra Roxb. Attenuates Inflammatory Responses in Complete Freund’s Adjuvant‐Induced Arthritis Rats
Authors: Dong Lisha , Zhu Jinqiu , Du Hongzhi , Nong Heng , He Xicheng , Chen Xiaoyu
Published: August 2017

Astilbin, a flavonoid compound, was isolated from the rhizome of Smilax glabra Roxb. (with red cross‐section) grown in Guizhou Province, China. We accessed its effect and potential mechanism on attenuation of the inflammatory response in CFA‐induced AA rats. Our results showed that daily oral administration of astilbin at 5.3 mg/kg reduced joint damage in the hind paw of AA rats. Accordingly, astilbin exhibited remarkable inhibitory effects on TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 mRNA expression. Significant decrease of serum cytokine levels of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 was also observed in astilbin‐treated AA rats compared to the vehicle‐treated AA rats. The reduced expression of these cytokines was associated with protein activity suppression of three key molecular targets in the pathogenesis of RA, including IKKβ, NF‐κB p65 subunit, and TLR adaptor MyD88. Furthermore, the therapeutic effects of astilbin on the inhibition of cytokines production as well as the reduction of inflammatory response in AA rats are close to a commonly used antirheumatic drug, leflunomide. Collectively, our data suggest that the action mechanism of astilbin, as an anti‐inflammatory agent for RA treatment, is associated with modulating the production of proinflammatory cytokines and inhibiting the expression of key elements in NF‐κB signaling pathway mediated by TLR.
Micromotion Feature Extraction of Space Target Based on Track-Before-Detect
Authors: Chen Yijun , Zhang Qun , Luo Ying , Yeo Tat Soon
Published: August 2017

The micromotion feature of space target provides an effective approach for target recognition. The existing micromotion feature extraction is implemented after target detection and tracking; thus the radar resources need to be allocated for target detection, tracking, and feature extraction, successively. If the feature extraction can be implemented by utilizing the target detecting and tracking pulses, the radar efficiency can be improved. In this paper, by establishing a feedback loop between micromotion feature extraction and track-before-detect (TBD) of target, a novel feature extraction method for space target is proposed. The TBD technology is utilized to obtain the range-slow-time curves of target scatterers. Then, micromotion feature parameters are estimated from the acquired curve information. In return, the state transition set of TBD is updated adaptively according to these extracted feature parameters. As a result, the micromotion feature parameters of space target can be extracted concurrently with implementing the target detecting and tracking. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Associations of Fatty Liver Disease with Hypertension, Diabetes, and Dyslipidemia: Comparison between Alcoholic and Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis
Authors: Toshikuni Nobuyuki , Tsuchishima Mutsumi , Fukumura Atsushi , Arisawa Tomiyasu , Tsutsumi Mikihiro
Published: August 2017

Alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are representative types of fatty liver disease (FLD) and have similar histologic features. In this study, we aimed to compare the associations of the two FLD types with hypertension (HT), diabetes mellitus (DM), and dyslipidemia (DL). A nationwide survey investigating FLD status included 753 Japanese subjects (median age 55 years; male 440, female 313) with biopsy-proven ASH (n=172) or NASH (n=581). We performed a multiple logistic regression analysis to identify the factors associated with HT, DM, or DL. Older age and a higher body mass index were significant factors associated with HT. Older age, female sex, a higher body mass index, advanced liver fibrosis, and the NASH type of FLD (odds ratio 2.77; 95% confidence interval 1.78–4.31; P<0.0001) were significant factors associated with DM. Finally, the NASH type of FLD (odds ratio 4.05; 95% confidence interval 2.63–6.24; P<0.0001) was the only significant factor associated with DL. Thus, the associations of NASH with DM and DL were stronger than those of ASH with DM and DL. In the management of FLD subjects, controlling DM and DL is particularly important for NASH subjects.
Measurement of Serum Klotho in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Talotta Rossella , Bongiovanni Sara , Letizia Teresa , Rigamonti Federica , Ditto Maria Chiara , Atzeni Fabiola , Salaffi Fausto , Batticciotto Alberto , Gerardi Maria Chiara , Antivalle Marco , Vago Tarcisio , Benucci Maurizio , Sarzi-Puttini Piercarlo
Published: August 2017

Background. The aim of our study was to evaluate the serum concentration of klotho in a cohort of systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients compared to that of healthy controls and to correlate its levels with the degree and the kind of organ involvement. Methods. Blood samples obtained from both patients and controls were collected and analysed by an ELISA test for the determination of human soluble klotho. Scleroderma patients were evaluated for disease activity through clinical, laboratory, and instrumental assessment. Results. Our cohort consisted of 81 SSc patients (74 females, mean age 63.9 ± 13.1 years) and 136 healthy controls (78 females, mean age 50.5 ± 10.7 years). When matched for age, serum klotho concentration significantly differed between controls and patients (p<0.001). However, in SSc patients, we did not find any significant association between serum klotho and clinical, laboratory, and instrumental findings. Lower serum levels of klotho were detected in 4 patients who were anticitrullinated peptide antibody (ACPA) positive (p=0.005). Conclusions. Our data show a lower concentration of klotho in the serum of SSc patients compared to that of healthy controls, without any significant association with clinical manifestations and laboratory and instrumental findings. The association between serum klotho and ACPA positivity requires further investigation.
Multigrades Classification Model of Magnesite Ore Based on SAE and ELM
Authors: Mao Yachun , Xiao Dong , Cheng Jinfu , Che Defu , Le Batuan , Song Liang , Liu Xiaobo
Published: August 2017

Magnesite is an important raw material for extracting magnesium metal and magnesium compound; how precise its grade classification exerts great influence on the smelting process. Thus, it is increasingly important to determine fast and accurately the grade of magnesite. In this paper, a method based on stacked autoencoder (SAE) and extreme learning machine (ELM) was established for the classification model of magnesite. Stacked autoencoder (SAE) was firstly used to reduce the dimension of magnesite spectrum data and then neutral network model of extreme learning machine (ELM) was adopted to classify the data. Two improved extreme learning machine (ELM) models were employed for better classification, namely, accuracy extreme learning machine (AELM) and integrated accuracy (IELM) to build up the classification models. The grade classification through traditional methods such as chemical approaches, artificial methods, and BP neutral network model was compared to that in this paper. Results showed that the classification model of magnesite ore through stacked autoencoder (SAE) and extreme learning machine (ELM) is better in terms of speed and accuracy; thus, this paper provides a new way for the grade classification of magnesite ore.