bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid subnet-based node failure recovery formal procedure in wireless sensor and actor networks
Authors: Afzaal Hamra , Zafar Nazir Ahmad , Alhumaidan Fahad
Published: April 2017

An unattended deployment of wireless sensor and actor networks in a harsh and inhospitable environment may cause its failure by partitioning it into the disjoint segments. Although many variants of this problem are addressed using different approaches, it still needs to be investigated due to its various applications. In this article, an efficient, localized, hybrid failure detection and recovery algorithm is proposed which assumes planned deployment of nodes. The algorithm is approximate and distributed as its topology is partitioned into subnets localizing failure recovery procedure and efficient as the time complexity is reduced from nondeterministic polynomial-time–hard to polynomial time. The algorithm is hybrid as pre-failure planning and post-failure recovery is assumed for the critical nodes. Graph-based model is designed to represent static part which is then transformed into a formal model using Vienna Development Method—specification language. The static model consists of subnets, circular topology, sensors, actors, and gateways as composite objects in Vienna Development Method—specification language. The dynamic model is developed by defining its state space, functions, and possible operations to describe the failure recovery procedure. Invariants are defined on static model to assure correctness, and pre/post conditions are used in the dynamic model to control the behavior preventing system to enter into an unwanted situation. The formal specification is analyzed using Vienna Development Method—specification language Toolbox to visualize the model.
Geometric analysis of the influence of perpendicularity of a spindle axis of the milling machine on the surface quality
Authors: Bloul Benattia , Bourdim Abdelghafour , Hamou Said , Bourdim Mokhtar
Published: April 2017

This paper deals with analyzes of the influence of the perpendicularity of the spindle of the milling machine on the machined surface. This is part of the geometric errors of machine tools and in a direct manner constitutes a defect on the quality of the workpiece. Therefore, the surface roughness is particularly sensitive to the cutting speed, the feed rate, round of teeth default, the tool tip radius and the cutter teeth number. This article examines the characteristics of the surface topography of steel parts, in finishing machining using milling cutters. The study is conducted by computer simulation tests and experimental part using surface condition monitoring instruments, taking into consideration the round teeth default. The variation of the inclination of the spindle of the milling machine in three positions (90° + 30′, 90°, and 90°–30′) shows a good agreement between the simulation and the experimental results for sharp and moderately worn tools. Similarly, this study showed that the presented model could thus be integrated into systems computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing. Finally, the physical and statistical parameters of roughness during milling at position 90° confirmed that, when the defect of the perpendicularity is eliminated to the maximum, the best surface conditions are obtained.
How Preferences for Continuity and Access Differ Between Multimorbidity and Healthy Patients in a Team Care Setting
Authors: Ehman Katherine M. , Deyo-Svendsen Mark , Merten Zachary , Kramlinger Anne Marie , Garrison Gregory M.
Published: April 2017

Introduction: Team-based care has become an essential part of modern medical practice. Patient-centered medical homes often struggle to balance the dual competing goals of acute access and continuity of care. Multimorbidity patients may value continuity more than healthy patients, and thus may prefer to wait to see their primary care physician (PCP). Methods: A total of 1700 randomly selected healthy adults and multimorbidity patients were asked to rate satisfaction with care and presented with 4 acute and 4 chronic scenarios to choose an access and continuity preference in an anonymous mailed survey. Results: In all, 770 responses were obtained. All respondents preferred to be seen 2.5 days sooner for acute appointments. Multimorbidity patients preferred to wait 0.28 days longer for acute issues to see their PCP. Patients who were not satisfied with their care team preferred to wait 0.75 days to see their PCP. Those not satisfied with their PCP choose to be seen 0.38 days sooner by their care team or any physician. Conclusions: All patients prefer continuity of care with their PCP for chronic disease management and value quick access to care for acute problems. For acute visits, multimorbidity patients prefer to wait longer to see their PCP than healthy adults. Satisfaction also plays an important role in patients’ willingness to wait for an appointment with their PCP.
The Time Usage of College Music Majors, Non-Music Majors, and Marching Band Participants
Authors: Cumberledge Jason P.
Published: April 2017

College marching bands face recruitment challenges each year. Many high school band students may not participate in college marching band due to concerns about adequate study time. This research was a case study that investigated the time usage of selected college students at one university. This study compared the time usage skills of four groups of undergraduate students: (a) music majors in marching band, (b) non-music majors in marching band, (c) music majors not in marching band, and (d) non-music majors not in marching band. The following research questions were addressed: (1) How do marching band members, music majors, and non-music undergraduates use their time? (2) How much time do marching band students allocate for studying compared with non–marching band students? (3) How much time do music majors in marching band devote to practice compared with music majors not in marching band? (4) How much time do marching band members reserve for leisure-related activities compared with students not in marching band? (5) Have college music majors ever been told that marching band takes too much time? If so, is there a relationship between those students and marching band participation? Participants ( N = 80) were undergraduate students at a large southern university in the United States. Data were collected through a researcher-designed time log. Results of this study indicated that non–marching band students had more leisure time than marching band students. This study may also indicate that marching band students have adequate time for study and homework. Further research investigating marching band students’ time usage seems warranted.
Low expression of hexokinase-2 is associated with false-negative FDG–positron emission tomography in multiple myeloma
Authors: Rasche Leo , Angtuaco Edgardo , McDonald James E. , Buros Amy , Stein Caleb , Pawlyn Charlotte , Thanendrarajan Sharmilan , Schinke Carolina , Samant Rohan , Yaccoby Shmuel , Walker Brian A. , Epstein Joshua , Zangari Maurizio , van Rhee Frits , Meissner Tobias , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Hemminki Kari , Houlston Richard , Barlogie Bart , Davies Faith E. , Morgan Gareth J. , Weinhold Niels
Published: April 2017

Key Points

PET false-negativity was seen in 11% of MM patients. PET false-negativity was associated with low hexokinase-2 expression.
Optimal CD4 T cell priming after LPS-based adjuvanticity with CD134 costimulation relies on CXCL9 production
Authors: Shinde Paurvi , Liu Wenhai , Ménoret Antoine , Luster Andrew D , Vella Anthony T
Published: April 2017

LPS is a powerful adjuvant, and although LPS-mediated TLR4 signaling has been exquisitely delineated, the in vivo mechanism of how TLR4 responses impact T cell priming is far less clear. Besides costimulation, TNF and type 1 IFN are dominant cytokines released after TLR4 activation and can shape T cell responses, but other downstream factors have not been examined extensively. Depending on context, we show that IFNαR1 blockade resulted in minor to major effects on specific CD4 T cell clonal expansion. To help explain these differences, it was hypothesized that IFNαR1 blockade would inhibit specific T cell migration by reducing chemokine receptor signaling, but specific CD4 T cells from IFNαR1-blocked mice were readily able to migrate in response to specific chemokines. Next, we examined downstream factors and found that type 1 IFN signaling was necessary for chemokine production, even when mice were immunized with specific Ag with LPS and CD134 costimulation. IFNαR1 signaling promoted CXCL9 and CXCL10 synthesis, suggesting that these chemokines might be involved in the LPS and CD134 costimulation response. After immunization, we show that CXCL9 blockade inhibited CD4 T cell accumulation in the liver but also in LNs, even in the presence of elevated serum IFN-β levels. Thus, whereas type 1 IFN might have direct effects on primed CD4 T cells, the downstream chemokines that play a role during migration also impact accumulation. In sum, CXCL9 production is a key benchmark for productive CD4 T cell vaccination strategies.
Prohibitin-induced obesity leads to anovulation and polycystic ovary in mice
Authors: Ande Sudharsana Rao , Nguyen Khanh Hoa , Xu Yang Xin Zi , Mishra Suresh
Published: April 2017

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder and the most common cause of female infertility. However, the etiology of the disease and the mechanisms by which this disorder progress remain unclear. Here we report that a transgenic obese mouse (Mito-Ob) developed by overexpressing prohibitin in adipocytes develops polycystic ovaries. Initially, the female Mito-Ob mice were equally fertile to their wild-type littermates. Mito-Ob mice begin to gain weight after puberty, become significantly obese between 3-6 months of age, and roughly 25% of them become infertile by 9 months of age. Despite obesity, female Mito-Ob mice maintained glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity similar to their wild-type littermates. Mito-Ob mice showed morphologically distinct polycystic ovaries and elevated estradiol, but normal testosterone and insulin levels. Histological analysis of the ovaries showed signs of impaired follicular dynamics like preantral follicular arrest and reduced number, or absence of corpus luteum. The ovaries in infertile Mito-Ob mice were found closely surrounded by periovarian adipose tissue suggesting a potential role in anovulation. Collectively, these data suggest that elevated estradiol and obesity per se may lead to anovulation and polycystic ovaries independent of hyperinsulinemia and hyperandrogenism. As obesity often coexists with other abnormalities known to be involved in the development of PCOS such as insulin resistance, compensatory hyperinsulinemia, and hyperandrogenism, the precise role of these factors in the disease process remain unclear. The Mito-Ob mice provide an opportunity to study the effect of obesity on anovulation and ovarian cyst formation independent of the major drivers of obesity-linked PCOS.
A microRNA-mRNA expression network during oral siphon regeneration in Ciona
Authors: Spina Elijah J. , Guzman Elmer , Zhou Hongjun , Kosik Kenneth S. , Smith William C.
Published: April 2017

Here we present a parallel study of mRNA and microRNA expression during oral siphon (OS) regeneration in Ciona robusta, and the derived network of their interactions. In the process of identifying 248 mRNAs and 15 microRNAs as differentially expressed, we also identified 57 novel microRNAs, several of which are among the most highly differentially expressed. Analysis of functional categories identified enriched transcripts related to stress responses and apoptosis at the wound healing stage, signaling pathways including Wnt and TGFβ during early regrowth, and negative regulation of extracellular proteases in late stage regeneration. Consistent with the expression results, we found that inhibition of TGFβ signaling blocked OS regeneration. A correlation network was subsequently inferred for all predicted microRNA-mRNA target pairs expressed during regeneration. Network-based clustering associated transcripts into 22 non-overlapping groups, the functional analysis of which showed enrichment of stress response, signaling pathway and extracellular protease categories that could be related to specific microRNAs. Predicted targets of the miR-9 cluster suggest a role in regulating differentiation and the proliferative state of neural progenitors through regulation of the cytoskeleton and cell cycle.
Dehydration enhances multiple physiological defense mechanisms in a desert lizard, Heloderma suspectum
Authors: Moeller Karla T. , Demare Guillaume , Davies Scott , DeNardo Dale F.
Published: April 2017

The physiological challenges associated with dehydration can induce an increase in plasma glucocorticoid concentrations, a response thought to provide the mechanism for dehydration suppressing immune function. However, a comprehensive examination of the interrelationship of dehydration, stress, and immune function has not been conducted within a single species. We previously demonstrated that Gila monsters (Heloderma suspectum), which inhabit a xeric environment with a predictable seasonal drought, have enhanced measures of innate immunity when dehydrated. These results suggest that, in this species, dehydration may not induce a glucocorticoid response, but, instead, enhances physiological defense mechanisms. To explore this possibility, we examined multiple measures of innate immunity as well as initial and reactive plasma concentrations of glucocorticoids in captive and free-ranging Gila monsters at various hydration states. Our results show that, in this species, dehydration alone does not cause a substantial increase in plasma glucocorticoids, and we provide broader evidence that dehydration enhances defensive mechanisms including stress reactivity and various measures of innate immune function. These findings suggest that physiological responses to dehydration may depend heavily on an organism's ecology. More research on the effects of dehydration on the glucocorticoid response and immunity will help clarify the interactive roles they play in response to hydric challenges and whether adaptations to water-limited environments influence these interactions.
Exposure to seawater increases intestinal motility in euryhaline rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Brijs Jeroen , Hennig Grant W. , Gräns Albin , Dekens Esmée , Axelsson Michael , Olsson Catharina
Published: April 2017

Upon exposure to seawater, euryhaline teleosts need to imbibe and desalinate seawater to allow for intestinal ion and water absorption, as this is essential for maintaining osmotic homeostasis. Despite the potential benefits of increased mixing and transport of imbibed water for increasing the efficiency of absorptive processes, the effect of water salinity on intestinal motility in teleosts remains unexplored. By qualitatively and quantitatively describing in vivo intestinal motility of euryhaline rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), this study demonstrates that in freshwater, the most common motility pattern consisted of clusters of rhythmic, posteriorly propagating contractions that lasted ∼1-2 minutes followed by a period of quiescence lasting ∼4-5 minutes. This pattern closely resembles mammalian migrating motor complexes (MMCs). Following a transition to seawater, imbibed seawater resulted in a significant distension of the intestine and the frequency of MMCs increased two to three-fold with a concomitant reduction in the periods of quiescence. The increased frequency of MMCs was also accompanied by ripple-type contractions occuring every 12 to 60 seconds. These findings demonstrate that intestinal contractile activity of euryhaline teleosts is dramatically increased upon exposure to seawater, which is likely part of the overall response for maintaining osmotic homeostasis as increased drinking and mechanical perturbation of fluids is necessary to optimize intestinal ion and water absorption. Finally, the temporal response of intestinal motility in rainbow trout transitioning from freshwater to seawater coincides with previously documented physiological modifications associated with osmoregulation and may provide further insight on the underlying reasons shaping the migration patterns of salmonids.
Identification of the septate junction protein gliotactin in the mosquito, Aedes aegypti: evidence for a role in increased paracellular permeability in larvae
Authors: Jonusaite Sima , Kelly Scott P. , Donini Andrew
Published: April 2017

Septate junctions (SJs) regulate paracellular permeability across invertebrate epithelia. However, little is known about the function of SJ proteins in aquatic invertebrates. In this study, a role for the transmembrane SJ protein gliotactin (Gli) in the osmoregulatory strategies of larval mosquito (Aedes aegypti) was examined. Differences in gli transcript abundance were observed between the midgut, Malpighian tubules (MT), hindgut and anal papillae (AP) of A. aegypti, which are epithelia that participate in larval mosquito osmoregulation. Western blotting of Gli revealed its presence in monomer, putative dimer and alternatively processed protein forms in different larval mosquito organs. Gli localized to the entire SJ domain between midgut epithelial cells and showed a discontinuous localization along the plasma membranes of epithelial cells of the rectum as well as the syncytial AP epithelium. In the MT, Gli immunolocalization was confined to SJs between the stellate and principal cells. Rearing larvae in 30% seawater caused an increase in Gli protein abundance in the anterior midgut, MT and hindgut. Transcriptional knockdown of gli using dsRNA reduced Gli protein abundance in the midgut and increased the flux rate of the paracellular permeability marker, polyethylene glycol (MW 400 Da; PEG-400). Data suggest that in larval A. aegypti, Gli participates in the maintenance of salt and water balance and that one role for Gli is to participate in the regulation of paracellular permeability across the midgut of A. aegypti in response to changes in environmental salinity.
Accountability and Information in Elections
Authors: Ashworth Scott , de Mesquita Ethan Bueno , Friedenberg Amanda
Published: April 2017

Elections are thought to improve voter welfare through two channels: effective accountability (i.e., providing incentives for politicians to take costly effort) and electoral selection (i.e., retaining politicians with characteristics voters value). We show that there may be a trade-off between these two channels. Higher levels of effective accountability may hinder the voters' ability to learn about the politicians. In turn, this may hinder electoral selection and be detrimental to voter welfare. This is because increasing effective accountability directly impacts how informative governance outcomes are about an incumbent's type. We show that, if politicians' effort and type are local substitutes (resp. complements) in the production of governance outcomes, an increase in effective accountability corresponds to a decrease (resp. increase) in Blackwell (1951) informativeness. We also show that effective accountability can vary even absent institutional variation. In particular, we provide necessary and sufficient conditions for there to be multiple equilibria that differ in terms of both effective accountability and electoral selection. Overall, our findings have implications for voter behavior, the efficacy of institutional reforms, and voter welfare. (JEL D72, D83)
Hydrogen degradation of pre-oxidized zirconium alloys
Authors: Szoka A. , Gajowiec G. , Zieliński A. , Serbiński W. , Olive J.-M. , Ossowska A.
Published: April 2017

The presence of the oxide layers on Zr alloys may retard or enhance the hydrogen entry and material degradation, depending on the layer features. This research has been aimed to determine the effects of pre-oxidation of the Zircaloy-2 alloy at a different temperature on hydrogen degradation. The specimens were oxidised in laboratory air at 350°C, 700°C, and 900°C. After, some samples were tensed at 10-5 strain rate and simultaneously charged with hydrogen under constant direct voltage in 1 N sulfuric acid at room temperature. Other specimens were charged without any tension, then annealed at 400°C for 4 h and finally tensed at above strain rate. The SEM examinations were performed on the cross-sections and fracture faces of specimens. The obtained results demonstrate the effects of the oxide layer on the cathodic current and hydrogen entry, mechanical properties and the appearance of hydrides and fracture behaviour.
Comparison of Estimation Accuracy of EKF, UKF and PF Filters
Authors: Konatowski Stanisław , Kaniewski Piotr , Matuszewski Jan
Published: April 2017

Several types of nonlinear filters (EKF – extended Kalman filter, UKF – unscented Kalman filter, PF – particle filter) are widely used for location estimation and their algorithms are described in this paper. In the article filtering accuracy for non-linear form of measurement equation is presented. The results of complex simulations that compare the quality of estimation of analyzed non-linear filters for complex non-linearities of state vector are presented. The moves of maneuvering object are described in two-dimensional Cartesian coordinates and the measurements are described in the polar coordinate system. The object dynamics is characterized by acceleration described by the univariate non-stationary growth model (UNGM) function. The filtering accuracy was evaluated not only by the root-mean-square errors (RMSE) but also by statistical testing of innovations through the expected value test, the whiteness test and the WSSR (weighted sum squared residual) test as well. The comparison of filtering quality was done in the MATLAB environment. The presented results provide a basis for designing more accurate algorithms for object location estimation.
An Analysis of Possibilities How the Collision Between M/V ‘Baltic Ace’ and M/V ‘Corvus J’ Could Have Been Avoided
Authors: Kulbiej Eric , Wołejsza Piotr
Published: April 2017

The report presents the simulation results of collision between m/v ‘Baltic Ace’ and m/v ‘Corvus J’. The analysis was performed by means of navigation decision support system (NDSS) in collision situations. This system (NAVDEC) works out anti-collision manoeuvre using AIS (Automatic Identification System) and ARPA (Automatic Radar Plotting Aids) data. Then they are processed by specialized computing algorithms and presented to the operator on a display in the alphanumeric and graphic forms. The data on the specific navigational situation from the report of Bahamas Maritime Authority was used for the generation of signals transmitted to NDSS as a sequence of NMEA strings.
Methods of Improving the Jamming Resistance of GNSS Receiver
Authors: Felski Andrzej
Published: April 2017

Jamming of GNSS signals can be both a consequence of accidental activities and an intentional act. This issue is lately discussed as an essential threat for the use of satellite navigation systems. This is especially dangerous in the face of common usage of GPS - like systems in everyday life and the great belief of everyday users in the truth of devices indications. In spite of the legal prohibition of using them, jammers are commonly accessible, especially in the Internet. Until recently even specialists have shared the conviction that the broadband GPS signal is not a subject of disturbances in contrast to older wireless communication techniques because its power level is below natural level of noises and in addition it is randomly coded. But nowadays jammers are very often successfully applied, which is confirmed in many reports. The average user has not the suitable knowledge about the specificity of the jamming and has no technical possibilities of the detection of jammer signals. Receivers, which can indicate the presence of perturbative signals, became accessible a few months ago only. Presently accessible jamming monitors can also determine the direction of interferer signal transmission. There are also specially designed receivers with anti-jamming mechanism, which are, however, not commonly accessible. The possible way of countermeasure the jamming in the GNSS receiver are discussed in this paper.
Implementation of the Contingency Plan On Offshore Units Including Mobile Offshore Drilling Units
Authors: Mrozowska Alicja
Published: April 2017

The article discusses practical application of the contingency plan (called also the emergency response plan) to the risks that may occur on an offshore unit. The author, based on her own professional experience, discusses the plan and illustrates its use in practice based on selected elements of the plan for mobile offshore drilling units engaged in the exploration of resources beneath the seabed. The paper discusses the requirements of Directive 2013/30/EU, which is includes obligation to implement the contingency plan relating to offshore units, in order to prevent accidents resulting from offshore oil and gas operations.
Weaker hypotheses for the general projection algorithm with corrections
Authors: Bobe Alexandru , Nicola Aurelian , Popa Constantin
Published: April 2017

In an earlier paper [J. of Appl. Math. and Informatics, 29(3-4)(2011), 697-712] we proposed a general projection-type algorithm with corrections and proved its convergence under a set of special assumptions. In this paper we prove convergence of this algorithm under a much weaker set of assumptions. This new framework gives us the possibility to obtain as a particular case of our method the two-step algorithm analysed in [B I T, 38(2)(1998), 275-282].
Preconditioners based on the ISM factorization
Authors: Bru Rafael , Cerdán Juana , Marín José , Mas José , Tůma Miroslav
Published: April 2017

In this paper we survey our work on preconditioners based on the Inverse Sherman-Morrison factorization. The most important theoretical results are also summarized and some numerical conclusions are provided.
Brinkman – Forchheimer – Darcy Flow Past an Impermeable Sphere Embedded in a Porous Medium
Authors: Juncu Gheorghe
Published: April 2017

The flow past an impermeable sphere embedded in a fluid saturated porous medium was studied numerically considering valid the Brinkman-Forchheimer-Darcy (or Brinkman-Hazen-Dupuit-Darcy) model. The flow is viscous, laminar, axisymmetric, steady and incompressible. The porous medium is isotropic, rigid and homogeneous. The stream function - vorticity equations were solved numerically in spherical coordinates system by a multigrid method. The influence of the Darcy number and Forchheimer term on the velocities field was investigated for two boundary conditions on the surface of the sphere: slip and no - slip.
On a conjecture related to the ruin probability for nonhomogeneous insurance claims
Authors: Vernic Raluca
Published: April 2017

Recently, nonhomogeneous claim sizes have been considered in the actuarial literature starting from the fact that the claims are seasonally influenced by the economic environment. In this context, Raducan et al. [8] obtained recursive formulas for the ruin probability at or before claim instants, and stated a conjecture that relates the order of the claims arrival to the magnitude of the corresponding ruin probability, conjecture supported by numerical examples. In this paper, we prove this conjecture in a particular case.
Detection of EGFR mutations in patients with non-small cell lung cancer by high resolution melting. Comparison with other methods
Authors: Martínez-Carretero Carlos , Pascual Fernando Iguaz , Rus Antonio , Bernardo Ivan
Published: April 2017

Background:

The discovery of mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor gene (

Methods:

We developed a screening method by high resolution melting (HRM) to detect

Results:

Eight samples showed discordant results between both methods. Three samples with negative results by allele specific PCR and positive by HRM were confirmed by Sanger sequencing (p.S768I+p.V769L, T751_I759del and p.E709K+p.G719A; patients 1, 3 and 4, respectively). One sample with a negative result by HRM, and positive by allele specific PCR (p.T790M; patient 2), was confirmed by Sanger sequencing. Additionally, two positive samples for a deletion in exon 19 by allele-specific PCR, were negative by Sanger sequencing and HRM (patients 2 and 5) and finally, two samples were negative by allele-specific PCR and positive by HRM and Sanger sequencing due to synonymous variants in exon 21.

Conclusions:

HRM is a good method for mutational screening in
Low-grade inflammation and tryptophan-kynurenine pathway activation are associated with adverse cardiac remodeling in primary hyperparathyroidism: the EPATH trial
Authors: Verheyen Nicolas , Meinitzer Andreas , Grübler Martin Robert , Ablasser Klemens , Kolesnik Ewald , Fahrleitner-Pammer Astrid , Belyavskiy Evgeny , Trummer Christian , Schwetz Verena , Pieske-Kraigher Elisabeth , Voelkl Jakob , Alesutan Ioana , Catena Cristiana , Sechi Leonardo Alberto , Brussee Helmut , Lewinski Dirk von , März Winfried , Pieske Burkert , Pilz Stefan , Tomaschitz Andreas
Published: April 2017

Background:

Primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT) is associated with low-grade inflammation, left ventricular hypertrophy and increased cardiovascular mortality, but the association between inflammatory markers and parameters of adverse cardiac remodeling is unknown. We investigated the relationship between C-reactive protein (CRP), the essential amino acid tryptophan and its pro-inflammatory derivatives kynurenine and quinolinic acid (QUIN) with echocardiographic parameters.

Methods:

Cross-sectional baseline data from the “Eplerenone in Primary Hyperparathyroidism” trial were analyzed. Patients with any acute illness were excluded. We assessed associations between CRP, serum levels of tryptophan, kynurenine and QUIN and left ventricular mass index (LVMI), left atrial volume index (LAVI) and E/e′.

Results:

Among 136 subjects with pHPT (79% females), 100 (73%) had arterial hypertension and the prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy was 52%. Multivariate linear regression analyses with LVMI, LAVI and E/e′ as respective dependent variables, and C-reactive protein and tryptophan, kynurenine and QUIN as respective independent variables were performed. Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, blood pressure, parathyroid hormone, calcium and other cardiovascular risk factors. LVMI was independently associated with CRP (adjusted β-coefficient=0.193, p=0.030) and QUIN (β=0.270, p=0.007), but not kynurenine. LAVI was related with CRP (β=0.315, p<0.001), kynurenine (β=0.256, p=0.005) and QUIN (β=0.213, p=0.044). E/e′ was related with kynurenine (β=0.221, p=0.022) and QUIN (β=0.292, p=0.006). Tryptophan was not associated with any of the remodeling parameters.

[Correction added after online publication (22 April 2017: The sentence “Among 136 subjects with pHPT (79% females), 100 (73%) had left ventricular hypertrophy.” was corrected to “Among 136 subjects with pHPT (79% females), 100 (73%) had arterial hypertension and the prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy was 52%.”]

Conclusions:

Cardiac remodeling is common in pHPT and is associated with low-grade inflammation and activation of the tryptophan-kynurenine pathway. The potential role of kynurenine and QUIN as cardiovascular risk factors may be further investigated in future studies.
Vitamin B1 in critically ill patients: needs and challenges
Authors: Collie Jake T.B. , Greaves Ronda F. , Jones Oliver A.H. , Lam Que , Eastwood Glenn M. , Bellomo Rinaldo
Published: April 2017

Background:

Thiamine has a crucial role in energy production, and consequently thiamine deficiency (TD) has been associated with cardiac failure, neurological disorders, oxidative stress (lactic acidosis and sepsis) and refeeding syndrome (RFS). This review aims to explore analytical methodologies of thiamine compound quantification and highlight similarities, variances and limitations of current techniques and how they may be relevant to patients.

Content:

An electronic search of Medline, PubMed and Embase databases for original articles published in peer-reviewed journals was conducted. MethodsNow was used to search for published analytical methods of thiamine compounds. Keywords for all databases included “thiamine and its phosphate esters”, “thiamine methodology” and terms related to critical illness. Enquiries were also made to six external quality assurance (EQA) programme organisations for the inclusion of thiamine measurement.

A total of 777 published articles were identified; 122 were included in this review. The most common published method is HPLC with florescence detection. Two of the six EQA organisations include a thiamine measurement programme, both measuring only whole-blood thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP). No standard measurement procedure for thiamine compound quantification was identified.

Outlook:

Overall, there is an absence of standardisation in measurement methodologies for thiamine in clinical care. Consequently, multiple variations in method practises are prohibiting the comparison of study results as they are not traceable to any higher order reference. Traceability of certified reference materials and reference measurement procedures is needed to provide an anchor to create the link between studies and help bring consensus on the clinical importance of thiamine.
A Bias in the Evaluation of Bias Comparing Randomized Trials with Nonexperimental Studies
Authors: Franklin Jessica M. , Dejene Sara , Huybrechts Krista F , Wang Shirley V , Kulldorff Martin , Rothman Kenneth J
Published: April 2017

In a recent
Delivery, Property and Risk in the Law of Sale
Authors: de Belvis Elisa
Published: April 2017

Directive n. 2011/83/EU, commonly known as the Consumer Rights Directive (CRD), increases the purchaser’s protection against any event which might occur to the goods sold during the period between the parties’ agreement on sale and the consumer’s actual reception of them (Articles 18 and 20 CRD). This Article analyses whether it would be advisable to reform such national legal systems, like the one based on Italian Civil Code which not only follows the principle
The Private Law Effect of MiFID: the Genil Case and Beyond
Authors: Busch Danny
Published: April 2017

This article examines to what extent the civil courts are bound by MiFID I/MiFID II under EU law. The following questions are considered in this context: (1) May civil courts be less strict than MiFID I/MiFID II? (2) May civil courts be stricter than MiFID I/MiFID II? (3) May contracting parties be less strict than MiFID I/MiFID II? (4) May contracting parties be stricter than MiFID I/MiFID II? (5) What effect does MiFID I/MiFID II have on the requirement of proximity or relativity in the Member States where this is a requirement for liability in tort? (6) What effect does MiFID I/MiFID II have on the proof of causal link? (7) What is the influence of MiFID I/MiFID II on a contractual limitation or exclusion of liability? (8) Should civil courts apply MiFID I/MiFID II of their own motion?
Pathological Internet use, cyberbullying and mobile phone use in adolescence: a school-based study in Greece
Authors: Tsimtsiou Zoi , Haidich Anna-Bettina , Drontsos Anastasios , Dantsi Fotini , Sekeri Zafiria , Drosos Evangelos , Trikilis Nikolaos , Dardavesis Theodoros , Nanos Panagiotis , Arvanitidou Malamatenia
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This study investigated the prevalence of Internet addiction (IA) and cyberbullying and examined profiles of adolescents with increased risk to develop pathological behaviors.

Methods

In this cross-sectional, school-based study, 8053 students of 30 middle and 21 high schools (12–18 years old) were invited to participate, based on a multistage stratified random sampling technique. The Internet aiddiction test (IAT) was used along with information on socio-demographics, Internet activities and cyberbullying experience.

Results

Five thousand five hundred and ninety students participated (response rate 69.4%). Pathological Internet use (IAT ≥50) was found in 526 (10.1%), while 403 (7.3%) experienced cyberbullying as victims and 367 (6.6%) as perpetrators during the last year. In multivariable models, the odds of IA increased with online hours on mobile phones and Internet use during weekends, Internet café visits, chatrooms usage and engagement in cyberbullying. Cyberbullying victims were more likely to be older, female, Facebook and chatrooms users, while perpetrators were more likely to be male, older Internet users and fans of pornographic sites. A perpetrator was significantly more likely to have also been a victim [odds ratio (OR) = 5.51, confidence interval (CI): 3.92–7.74]. Hours of daily Internet use on a mobile phone was independently associated with IA and cyberbullying (OR) 1.41, 95% CI 1.30, 1.53 and OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.01, 1.21, respectively.

Conclusions

Cyberbullying is associated with IA and the hours spent online on a mobile phone affected both conditions. The increasing Internet access through mobile phones or other devices should be accompanied by the appropriate education of both parents and adolescents on safe Internet use.
Genotype-phenotype correlation in paediatric pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma: a single centre experience from India
Authors: Khadilkar Kranti , Sarathi Vijaya , Kasaliwal Rajeev , Pandit Reshma , Goroshi Manjunath , Shivane Vyankatesh , Lila Anurag , Bandgar Tushar , Shah Nalini S.
Published: April 2017

Background:

Data on genotype-phenotype correlation in children is limited. Hence, we studied the prevalence of germline mutations and genotype-phenotype correlation in children with pheochromocytoma (PCC)/paraganglioma (PGL) and compared it with adult PCC/PGL cohort.

Methods:

A total of 121 consecutive, unrelated, index PCC/PGL patients underwent genetic testing for five PCC/PGL susceptibility genes (

Results:

Thirty patients (12 boys, 18 girls) presented at ≤20 years of age (mean age of 15.9±3.8 years). Children were more frequently symptomatic and more frequently had bilateral PCC than adults. Fourteen (46.7%) PCC/PGL children had germline mutations (

Conclusions:

All PCC/PGL children should be screened for germline mutations with first priority for
Complete convergence for weighted sums of pairwise independent random variables
Authors: Ge Li , Liu Sanyang , Miao Yu
Published: April 2017

In the present paper, we have established the complete convergence for weighted sums of pairwise independent random variables, from which the rate of convergence of moving average processes is deduced.
Binomials transformation formulae for scaled Fibonacci numbers
Authors: Hetmaniok Edyta , Piątek Bożena , Wituła Roman
Published: April 2017

The aim of the paper is to present the binomial transformation formulae of Fibonacci numbers scaled by complex multipliers. Many of these new and nontrivial relations follow from the fundamental properties of the so-called delta-Fibonacci numbers defined by Wituła and Słota. The paper contains some original relations connecting the values of delta-Fibonacci numbers with the respective values of Chebyshev polynomials of the first and second kind.
A facile and effective method for preparation of 2.5-furandicarboxylic acid via hydrogen peroxide direct oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural
Authors: Zhang Shuang , Zhang Long
Published: April 2017

In this paper, 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) was efficiently prepared by the direct oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in alkaline conditions without any catalysts. The effects of reaction parameters on the process were systematically investigated and the optimal parameters were obtained as follows: molar ratio of 5-HMF:KOH:H2O2 was 1:4:8, reaction temperature and reaction time were determined as 70°C and 15 minutes, respectively. Under these conditions, the yield of FDCA was 55.6% and the purity of FDCA could reach 99%. Moreover, we have speculated the detailed oxidation mechanism of 5-HMF assisted by hydrogen peroxide in alkaline condition to synthesize FDCA.
Adsorption and inhibitive properties of methanol extract of Eeuphorbia Heterophylla for the corrosion of copper in 0.5 M nitric acid solutions
Authors: Fouda A. S. , Elmorsi M. A. , Abou-Elmagd B. S.
Published: April 2017

The adsorption and the inhibitive properties of methanol extract of Euphorbia heterophylla on copper in 0.5 M HNO3have been studied by weight loss method at different temperatures (30-50°C), potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and electrochemical frequency modulation (EFM) techniques. Also, the surface morphology was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was found that the inhibition efficiency increases with increasing extract doses and decreased with increasing temperature. The polarization data revealed that this extract acts as mixed type inhibitor. The adsorption process was more favored at lower temperatures with larger negative standard free energy. The extract was adsorbed physically on the copper surface followed Frumkin isotherm.
Removal of benzotriazole by Photo-Fenton like process using nano zero-valent iron: response surface methodology with a Box-Behnken design
Authors: Ahmadi Mehdi , Rahmani Kurosh , Rahmani Ayat , Rahmani Hasan
Published: April 2017

In this paper, the removal of benzotriazole (BTA) was investigated by a Photo-Fenton process using nano zero valent iron (NZVI) and optimization by response surface methodology based on Box-Behnken method. Effect of operating parameters affecting removal efficiency such as H2O2, NZVI, and BTA concentrations as well as pH was studied. All the experiments were performed in the presence of ultraviolet radiation. Predicted levels and BTA removal were found to be in good agreement with the experimental levels (R2 = 0. 9500). The optimal parameters were determined at 60 min reaction time, 15 mg L-1 BTA, 0.10 g L-1 NZVI, and 1.5 mmol L-1 H2O2 for Photo-Fenton-like reaction. NZVI was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM) images, and scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis.
Biodegradation of poly(ε-caprolactone) in natural water environments
Authors: Heimowska Aleksandra , Morawska Magda , Bocho-Janiszewska Anita
Published: April 2017

The environmental degradation of poly(ε-caprolactone)[PCL] in natural fresh water (pond) and in The Baltic Sea is presented in this paper. The characteristic parameters of both environments were measured during experiment and their influence on the biodegradation of the samples was discussed. The loss of weight and changes of surface morphology of polymer samples were tested during the period of incubation. The poly(ε-caprolactone) was more biodegradable in natural sea water than in pond. PCL samples were completely assimilated over the period of six weeks incubation in The Baltic Sea water, but after forty two weeks incubation in natural fresh water the polymer weight loss was about 39%. The results have confirmed that the investigated polymers are susceptible to an enzymatic attack of microorganisms, but their activity depends on environments.
Localization of fugitive methane emission from natural gas distribution network of Titas Gas
Authors: Mandal Pradip C. , Morshed Syed Monjur
Published: April 2017

The aim of this paper is to localize the fugitive leaks from the above ground facilities of the existing system of Titas Gas (TG) after developing mathematical model for fugitive emission. Soap screening techniques and Gasurveyor 500 series instrument were used in this study for detecting potential leaks. Leaked gas was quantified using either Hi-Flow gas sampler or bagging measurements system. The results show that the respective potential gas leaking point of City Gate Station (CGS), commercial Regulating and Metering Station (RMS), industrial RMS, residential RMS and Town Bordering Station (TBS)/ District Regulating Station (DRS) are scrubber dump valve (average leak rate 217.00 L/min), insulating point (average leak rate 4.04 L/min), tube fitting connector (average leak rate 8.00 L/min), connector (average leak rate 1.55 L/min) and pressure relief valve (average leak rate 437.92 L/min). Fugitive methane emission can be reduced by stopping leaks of fittings or components having high KLeak value.
The Importance of Anthropometry Measurements in Analyzing the Impact of Sports Activities on Students
Authors: Pomohaci Marcel , Sopa Ioan Sabin
Published: April 2017

Our research aims to identify the importance of anthropometry measurements and functional testing of two groups that practice sport different, the first group, the experimental group was formed by 25 students (age 10 ± 2.1 years, 13 boys and 12 girls), that practiced 2 hours a week physical education and other 2 hours a week basketball and volleyball optional courses; and the second group formed by 25 students (age 10 ± 1.8 years, 14 boys and 11 girls), that practiced 2 hours a week classic physical education.

The anthropometric tests included in the research were the measurement of height, weight, different length of superior and inferior segments, bust, spread of arms, biacromial diameter, bitrohanterian diameter and chest perimeter.

Results showed that children from the experimental group, that practiced more sports activities, developed more quickly and had better proportionality index then the sample group. Statistically significant differences were determined within the experimental group both in the initial and in the final tests (p<0.05), also significant differences were discovered between the experimental and the sample group in the final measurement (p<0.05).

Conclusions of this research showed that more physical activities can influence the development of children both in anthropometric way and in functional and health related.
Health-related quality of life assessed by the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire in the general slovenian population
Authors: Velenik Vaneja , Secerov-Ermenc Ajra , But-Hadzic Jasna , Zadnik Vesna
Published: April 2017

Background

The aim of our study was to obtain reference data of the EORTC QLQ-C30 quality of life dimensions for the general Slovenian population. We intend to provide the researchers and clinicians in our country with the expected mean health-related quality of life (HRQL) scores for distinctive socio-demographic population groups.

Methods

The EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire supplemented by a socio-demographic inquiry was mailed or distributed to 1,685 randomly selected individuals in the Slovenian population aged 18 – 90. Answers from 1,231 subjects representing socio-demographic diversity of the Slovenian population were collected and transformed into EORTC dimensions and symptoms. The impact of socio-demographic features on HRQL scores was assessed by multiple linear regression models.

Results

Gender, age and self-rated social class are the important confounders in the quality of life scores in our population. Men reported better quality of life on the majority of the specific scales and, at the same time, reported fewer symptoms. There was no gender-specific difference in cognitive functioning. The mean scores were consistently lower with age in both sexes.

Conclusions

This is the first study to report the normative EORTC QLQ-C30 scores for one of the south-eastern European populations. The reported expected mean scores allow Slovenian oncologists to estimate what the quality of life in cancer patients would be, had they not been ill. As they are derived by common methodology, our results can easily be included in any further international comparisons or in the calculation of European summarized HRQL scores.