bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Color Enhancement in Endoscopic Images Using Adaptive Sigmoid Function and Space Variant Color Reproduction
Authors: Imtiaz Mohammad S. , Wahid Khan A.
Published: May 2015

Modern endoscopes play an important role in diagnosing various gastrointestinal (GI) tract related diseases. The improved visual quality of endoscopic images can provide better diagnosis. This paper presents an efficient color image enhancement method for endoscopic images. It is achieved in two stages: image enhancement at gray level followed by space variant chrominance mapping color reproduction. Image enhancement is achieved by performing adaptive sigmoid function and uniform distribution of sigmoid pixels. Secondly, a space variant chrominance mapping color reproduction is used to generate new chrominance components. The proposed method is used on low contrast color white light images (WLI) to enhance and highlight the vascular and mucosa structures of the GI tract. The method is also used to colorize grayscale narrow band images (NBI) and video frames. The focus value and color enhancement factor show that the enhancement level in the processed image is greatly increased compared to the original endoscopic image. The overall contrast level of the processed image is higher than the original image. The color similarity test has proved that the proposed method does not add any additional color which is not present in the original image. The algorithm has low complexity with an execution speed faster than other related methods.
Motion Control Design for an Omnidirectional Mobile Robot Subject to Velocity Constraints
Authors: Peñaloza-Mejía Ollin , Márquez-Martínez Luis A. , Alvarez Joaquín , Villarreal-Cervantes Miguel G. , García-Hernández Ramón
Published: May 2015

A solution to achieve global asymptotic tracking with bounded velocities in an omnidirectional mobile robot is proposed in this paper. It is motivated by the need of having a useful in-practice motion control scheme, which takes into account the physical limits of the velocities. To this end, a passive nonlinear controller is designed and combined with a tracking controller in a negative feedback connection structure. By using Lyapunov theory and passivity tools, global asymptotic tracking with desired bounded velocities is proved. Simulations and experimental results are provided to show the effectiveness of the proposal.
Prevalence of Self-Reported Diabetes and Its Associated Factors: A Population-Based Study in Brazil
Authors: Da-Mata Fabiana A. F. , Galvao Tais F. , Pereira Mauricio G. , Silva Marcus T.
Published: May 2015

Aim. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of diabetes and its associated risk factors in adults from Brasilia, Brazil.Methods. The present cross-sectional population-based study consisted of interviews with individuals aged 18–65 years. Participants were selected through two-stage probability sampling by clusters and stratified by sex and age. Demographic and clinical data were collected directly with participants from February to May 2012. Self-reported diabetes prevalence was calculated at a 95% confidence interval (CI). Prevalence ratios (PR) were adjusted by Poisson regression with robust variance.Results. In all, 1,820 individuals were interviewed. Diabetes prevalence in the adult population of Brasilia was 10.1% (95% CI, 8.5%–11.6%). Variables associated with diabetes were an age between 35 and 49 years (PR = 1.83; 95% CI, 1.19–2.82) or 50 and 65 years (PR = 1.95; 95% CI, 1.17–3.23), hypertension (PR = 4.04; 95% CI, 2.66–6.13), respiratory disease (PR = 1.67; 95% CI, 1.11–2.50), cardiovascular disease (PR = 1.74; 95% CI, 1.15–2.63), and pain/discomfort (PR = 1.71; 95% CI, 1.21–2.41).Conclusion. Diabetes is a prevalent condition in adults living in Brasilia, and disease risk increases with age and comorbidities. Future health policies should focus on screening programs and prevention for the more vulnerable groups.
Myxoinflammatory Fibroblastic Sarcoma: A Radiographical, Pathological, and Immunohistochemical Report of Rare Malignancy
Authors: Kato Michitaka , Tanaka Takuji , Ohno Takatoshi
Published: May 2015

Myxoinflammatory fibroblastic sarcoma (MIFS) is a rare, painless, and intermediate (rarely metastasizing) fibroblastic tumor, which commonly occurs in the extremities, with an equal sex predilection. This sarcoma is composed of a mixed inflammatory infiltrate along with spindled, epithelioid, and bizarre tumor cells in a background of hyaline and myxoid areas. In spite of such a distinctive morphology, the tumor can be a diagnostic challenge, simulating inflammatory conditions as well as neoplastic nature. For accurate diagnosis, the tumor requires extensive clinical, radiological, and pathological investigations. We present a case of MIFS in a 19-year-old female who presented with a mass in the left ankle. After appropriate excision and postoperative radiation therapy, she is free of disease, including recurrence and metastasis, at 12 years postoperatively.
A New Range-Free Localization Algorithm Based on Amendatory Simulation Curve Fitting in WSN
Authors: Liu Zhuang , Feng Xin , Zhang Jingjing , Wang Yanlong , Li Teng
Published: May 2015

We analyze Range-free localization algorithms of WSN and propose a new localization algorithm based on amendatory simulation curve fitting theory. Firstly, we present the current research status of localization technology and some improved Range-free localization algorithms based on the modification of hop distance and selection of anchors. Secondly, we analyze the disadvantages of those algorithms. Thirdly, we propose a new algorithm based on amendatory simulation curve fitting (ASCF) through selecting more accurate reference distance and anchors. The new algorithm can improve the localization accuracy. At last, simulation experiments are conducted, and the experimental results indicate that the new algorithm can enhance the localization accuracy efficiently.
Adaptive Decision Fusion with a Guidance Sensor in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Yu Zhaohua , Ling Qiang , Yu Yi
Published: May 2015

In wireless sensor networks, the fusion center collects the dates from the sensor nodes and makes the optimal decision fusion, while the optimal decision fusion rules need the performance parameters of each sensor node. However, sensors, particularly low-cost and low-precision sensors, are usually displaced in harsh environment and their performance parameters can be easily affected by the environment and hardly be known in advance. In order to resolve this issue, we take a heterogeneous wireless sensor network system, which is composed of both low-quality and high-quality sensors. Low-quality sensors are inexpensive and consume less energy while high-quality sensors are expensive and consume much more energy but provide high accuracy. Our approach uses one high-quality sensor as the guidance sensor, which enables the fusion center to estimate the performance parameters of the low-quality sensors online during the whole sampling process, and optimal decision fusion rule can be used in practice. Through using the low-quality sensors rather than the high-quality sensor most of the time, the system can efficiently reduce the system-level energy cost and prolong the network lifetime.
Fuzzy Dynamic Reliability Models of Parallel Mechanical Systems Considering Strength Degradation Path Dependence and Failure Dependence
Authors: Gao Peng , Xie Liyang
Published: May 2015

Fuzzy dynamic reliability models of mechanical parallel systems with respect to stress parameters and strength parameters are developed in this paper. Strength degradation path dependence (SDPD) and failure dependence of components in the system are two main problems to be addressed in developing fuzzy dynamic reliability of mechanical systems, which are taken into account in the proposed reliability models. In addition, the SDPD sensitivity function and the failure dependence sensitivity function are defined to analyze the influences of the fuzzy characteristics of stress on the effects of SDPD and failure dependence of mechanical components on dynamic reliability. The bolted joint systems for connection between launch vehicle and satellite are chosen as illustrative examples to demonstrate the proposed model. Moreover, Monte Carlo simulations are carried out to validate the effectiveness of the proposed models. The results show that SDPD and failure dependence of components have significant impacts on fuzzy dynamic reliability of mechanical systems. Besides, the influences of the fuzzy characteristics of stress on SDPD sensitivity and that on failure dependence sensitivity are different.
Chewing Gum: Cognitive Performance, Mood, Well-Being, and Associated Physiology
Authors: Allen Andrew P. , Smith Andrew P.
Published: May 2015

Recent evidence has indicated that chewing gum can enhance attention, as well as promoting well-being and work performance. Four studies (two experiments and two intervention studies) examined the robustness of and mechanisms for these effects. Study 1 investigated the acute effect of gum on mood in the absence of task performance. Study 2 examined the effect of rate and force of chewing on mood and attention performance. Study 3 assessed the effects of chewing gum during one working day on well-being and performance, as well as postwork mood and cognitive performance. In Study 4, performance and well-being were reported throughout the workday and at the end of the day, and heart rate and cortisol were measured. Under experimental conditions, gum was associated with higher alertness regardless of whether performance tasks were completed and altered sustained attention. Rate of chewing and subjective force of chewing did not alter mood but had some limited effects on attention. Chewing gum during the workday was associated with higher productivity and fewer cognitive problems, raised cortisol levels in the morning, and did not affect heart rate. The results emphasise that chewing gum can attenuate reductions in alertness, suggesting that chewing gum enhances worker performance.
Deguelin Induces Apoptosis by Targeting Both EGFR-Akt and IGF1R-Akt Pathways in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Baba Yuh , Fujii Masato , Maeda Toyonobu , Suzuki Atsuko , Yuzawa Satoshi , Kato Yasumasa
Published: May 2015

Deguelin, a rotenoid compound from the African plantMundulea sericea(Leguminosae), has been shown to possess antitumor activities but the exact role for the growth factor receptor mediated signaling pathway in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is currently still unclear. In the present study, we investigated the effect of deguelin on epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF1R) pathways in HNSCC cell lines. Flowcytometric analysis revealed accumulation of annexin V positivity in deguelin-treated cells, showing that deguelin induced apoptosis. The deguelin-induced apoptosis was accompanied by the reduction of constitutive phosphorylated levels of IGF1R, Akt, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase1/2 (ERK1/2). LY294002-mediated inhibition of phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase, which is an upstream effector for Akt activation, increased cleavage of poly(ADP-ribosyl) polymerase (PARP) but ERK inhibition by U0126 did not. Deguelin inhibited both IGF-1- and EGF-induced Akt activation. These results showed that deguelin possessed antitumor effect by targeting Akt in dual axis such as EGFR and IGF1R signaling pathways and suggested that it provides an applicable therapeutic strategy for HNSCC patients.
Utilizing Principal Singular Vectors for 2D DOA Estimation in Single Snapshot Case with Uniform Rectangular Array
Authors: Wu Yuntao , Pei Xiaobing , So Hing Cheung
Published: May 2015

The problem of azimuth and elevation directions of arrival (DOAs) estimation using a uniform rectangular array (URA) in single snapshot case is addressed in this paper. Using the principal singular vectors of the observed data matrix, an iterative procedure based on the linear prediction property, and weighted least squares is proposed for finding the DOAs with lower computational complexity. Furthermore, the azimuth and elevation parameters are automatically paired. Computer simulations are included to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Effects of Aerobic Exercise Based upon Heart Rate at Aerobic Threshold in Obese Elderly Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Emerenziani Gian Pietro , Gallotta Maria Chiara , Meucci Marco , Di Luigi Luigi , Migliaccio Silvia , Donini Lorenzo Maria , Strollo Felice , Guidetti Laura
Published: May 2015

In obese diabetic subjects, a correct life style, including diet and physical activity, is part of a correct intervention protocol. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of aerobic training intervention, based on heart rate at aerobic gas exchange threshold (AerTge), on clinical and physiological parameters in obese elderly subjects with type 2 diabetes (OT2DM). Thirty OT2DM subjects were randomly assigned to an intervention (IG) or control group (CG). The IG performed a supervised aerobic exercise training based on heart rate atAerTgewhereas CG maintained their usual lifestyle. Anthropometric measures, blood analysis, peak oxygen consumption (V˙O2peak), metabolic equivalent (METpeak), work rate (WRpeak), andWRAerTgewere assessed at baseline and after intervention. After training, patients enrolled in the IG had significantly higher (P<0.001)V˙O2peak,METpeak,WRpeak, andWRAerTgeand significantly lower (P<0.005) weight, BMI, %FM, and waist circumference than before intervention. Both IG and CG subjects had lower glycated haemoglobin levels after intervention period. No significant differences were found for all the other parameters between pre- and posttraining and between groups. Aerobic exercise prescription based upon HR atAerTgecould be a valuable physical intervention tool to improve the fitness level and metabolic equilibrium in OT2DM patients.
Cytotoxic Effect ofCoscinium fenestratumon Human Head and Neck Cancer Cell Line (HN31)
Authors: Potikanond Saranyapin , Chiranthanut Natthakarn , Khonsung Parirat , Teekachunhatean Supanimit
Published: May 2015

Coscinium fenestratumis widely used as a medicinal plant in many Asian countries. This study aimed to investigate the cytotoxic effect of a crude water extract ofC. fenestratum(CF extract) compared to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) on human HN31 cell line, a metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the pharynx. The results revealed that cell morphology visualized under inverted light microscopy was changed from flat with a polygonal appearance to round appearance after CF extract application. The cell viability assay (MTT test) showed that the concentration producing 50% growth inhibition (IC50) at 48-hour incubation of CF extract on HN31 was 0.12 mg/mL, while the IC50of 5-FU was 6.6 mg/mL, indicating that CF extract has a higher potency. However, combining various concentrations of 5-FU and CF extract at IC50did not show synergistic effect. The CF extract dose dependently increased cell apoptosis determined by Annexin-V and propidium iodide staining. It decreased the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and pAkt, while it increased the tumor suppressor protein p53. In conclusion, the cytotoxicity of CF extract was associated with the modulation of p38 MAPK, pAkt, and p53 signal molecules, leading to inhibiting cell survival and increasing apoptosis. No synergistic effects of CF extract and 5-FU were observed.
Management Strategies in Advanced Uterine Leiomyosarcoma: Focus on Trabectedin
Authors: Amant Frédéric , Lorusso Domenica , Mustea Alexander , Duffaud Florence , Pautier Patricia
Published: May 2015

The treatment of advanced uterine leiomyosarcomas (U-LMS) represents a considerable challenge. Radiological diagnosis prior to hysterectomy is difficult, with the diagnosis frequently made postoperatively. Whilst a total abdominal hysterectomy is the cornerstone of management of early disease, the role of routine adjuvant pelvic radiotherapy and adjuvant chemotherapy is less clear, since they may improve local tumor control in high risk patients but are not associated with an overall survival benefit. For recurrent or disseminated U-LMS, cytotoxic chemotherapy remains the mainstay of treatment. There have been few active chemotherapy drugs approved for advanced disease, although newer drugs such as trabectedin with its pleiotropic mechanism of actions represent an important addition to the standard front-line systemic therapy with doxorubicin and ifosfamide. In this review, we outline the therapeutic potential and in particular the emerging evidence-based strategy of therapy with trabectedin in patients with advanced U-LMS.
Fast Distributed Dynamics of Semantic Networks via Social Media
Authors: Carrillo Facundo , Cecchi Guillermo A. , Sigman Mariano , Fernández Slezak Diego
Published: May 2015

We investigate thedynamicsof semantic organization using social media, a collective expression of human thought. We propose a novel, time-dependent semantic similarity measure (TSS), based on the social network Twitter. We show that TSS is consistent with static measures of similarity but provides high temporal resolution for the identification of real-world events and induced changes in the distributed structure of semantic relationships across the entire lexicon. Using TSS, we measured the evolution of a concept and its movement along the semantic neighborhood, driven by specific news/events. Finally, we showed that particular events may trigger a temporary reorganization of elements in the semantic network.
Optimization of Bending Process Parameters for Seamless Tubes Using Taguchi Method and Finite Element Method
Authors: Lin Jui-Chang , Lee Kingsun
Published: May 2015

The three-dimensional tube (or pipe) is manufactured by CNC tube bending machine. The key techniques are determined by tube diameter, wall thickness, material, and bending radius. The obtained technique through experience and the trial and error method is unreliable. Finite element method (FEM) simulation for the tube bending process before production can avoid wasting manpower and raw materials. The computer-aided engineering (CAE) software ABAQUS 6.12 is applied to simulate bending characteristics and to explore the maximum stress and strain conditions. The Taguchi method is used to find the optimal parameters of bending. The confirmation experiment is performed according to optimal parameters. Results indicate that the strain error between CAE simulation and bending experiments is within 6.39%.
Evaluating the Effects of Façade Greening on Human Bioclimate in a Complex Urban Environment
Authors: Jänicke Britta , Meier Fred , Hoelscher Marie-Therese , Scherer Dieter
Published: May 2015

The evaluation of the effectiveness of countermeasures for a reduction of urban heat stress, such as façade greening, is challenging due to lacking transferability of results from one location to another. Furthermore, complex variables such as the mean radiant temperature(Tmrt)are necessary to assess outdoor human bioclimate. We observedTmrtin front of a building façade in Berlin, Germany, which is half-greened while the other part is bare.Tmrtwas reduced (mean 2 K) in front of the greened compared to the bare façade. To overcome observational shortcomings, we applied the microscale models ENVI-met, RayMan, and SOLWEIG. We evaluated these models based on observations. Our results show thatTmrt(MD = −1.93 K) and downward short-wave radiation (MD = 14.39 W/m2) were sufficiently simulated in contrast to upward short-wave and long-wave radiation. Finally, we compare the simulated reduction ofTmrtwith the observed one in front of the façade greening, showing that the models were not able to simulate the effects of façade greening with the applied settings. Our results reveal that façade greening contributes only slightly to a reduction of heat stress in front of building façades.
Chinese Herbal Compounds for the Prevention and Treatment of Atherosclerosis: Experimental Evidence and Mechanisms
Authors: Liu Qing , Li Jianping , Hartstone-Rose Adam , Wang Jing , Li Jiqiang , Janicki Joseph S. , Fan Daping
Published: May 2015

Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide. Research into the disease has led to many compelling hypotheses regarding the pathophysiology of atherosclerotic lesion formation and the resulting complications such as myocardial infarction and stroke. Herbal medicine has been widely used in China as well as other Asian countries for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases for hundreds of years; however, the mechanisms of action of Chinese herbal medicine in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis have not been well studied. In this review, we briefly describe the mechanisms of atherogenesis and then summarize the research that has been performed in recent years regarding the effectiveness and mechanisms of antiatherogenic Chinese herbal compounds in an attempt to build a bridge between traditional Chinese medicine and cellular and molecular cardiovascular medicine.
Theory and Simulation for Traffic Characteristics on the Highway with a Slowdown Section
Authors: Xu Dejie , Mao Baohua , Rong Yaping , Wei Wei
Published: May 2015

We study the traffic characteristics on a single-lane highway with a slowdown section using the deterministic cellular automaton (CA) model. Based on the theoretical analysis, the relationships among local mean densities, velocities, traffic fluxes, and global densities are derived. The results show that two critical densities exist in the evolutionary process of traffic state, and they are significant demarcation points for traffic phase transition. Furthermore, the changing laws of the two critical densities with different length of limit section are also investigated. It is shown that only one critical density appears if a highway is not slowdown section; nevertheless, with the growing length of slowdown section, one critical density separates into two critical densities; if the entire highway is slowdown section, they finally merge into one. The contrastive analysis proves that the analytical results are consistent with the numerical ones.
Psychometric Properties of the Diabetes Management Self-Efficacy Scale in Korean Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Lee Eun-Hyun , van der Bijl Jaap , Shortridge-Baggett Lillie M. , Han Seung Jin , Moon Seung Hei
Published: May 2015

Objectives. The aims of this study were to perform a cultural translation of the DMSES and evaluate the psychometric properties of the translated scale in a Korean population with type 2 diabetics.Methods. This study was conducted in patients with diabetes recruited from university hospitals. The first stage of this study involved translating the DMSES into Korean using a forward- and backward-translation technique. The content validity was assessed by an expert group. In the second stage, the psychometric properties of the Korean version of the DMSES (K-DMSES) were evaluated.Results. The content validity of the K-DMSES was satisfactory. Sixteen-items clustered into four-subscales were extracted by exploratory factor analysis, and supported by confirmatory factor analysis. The construct validity of the K-DMSES with the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities scale was satisfactory (r=0.50,P<0.001). The Cronbach’s alpha and intraclass correlation coefficient were 0.92 and 0.85 (P<0.001; 95%CI=0.75–0.91), respectively, which indicate excellent internal consistency reliability and test-retest reliability.Conclusions. The K-DMSES is a brief instrument that has demonstrated good psychometric properties. It is therefore feasible to use in practice, and is ready for use in clinical research involving Korean patients with type 2 diabetes.
Preparation of Silica Nanoparticles Loaded with Nootropics and TheirIn VivoPermeation through Blood-Brain Barrier
Authors: Jampilek Josef , Zaruba Kamil , Oravec Michal , Kunes Martin , Babula Petr , Ulbrich Pavel , Brezaniova Ingrid , Opatrilova Radka , Triska Jan , Suchy Pavel
Published: May 2015

The blood-brain barrier prevents the passage of many drugs that target the central nervous system. This paper presents the preparation and characterization of silica-based nanocarriers loaded with piracetam, pentoxifylline, and pyridoxine (drugs from the class of nootropics), which are designed to enhance the permeation of the drugs from the circulatory system through the blood-brain barrier. Their permeation was compared with non-nanoparticle drug substances (bulk materials) by means of anin vivomodel of rat brain perfusion. The size and morphology of the nanoparticles were characterized by transmission electron microscopy. The content of the drug substances in silica-based nanocarriers was analysed by elemental analysis and UV spectrometry. Microscopic analysis of visualized silica nanocarriers in the perfused brain tissue was performed. The concentration of the drug substances in the tissue was determined by means of UHPLC-DAD/HRMS LTQ Orbitrap XL. It was found that the drug substances in silica-based nanocarriers permeated through the blood brain barrier to the brain tissue, whereas bulk materials were not detected in the brain.
Minimizing the Discrepancy between Simulated and Historical Failures in Turbine Engines: A Simulation-Based Optimization Method
Authors: Kibria Ahmed , Castillo-Villar Krystel K. , Millwater Harry
Published: May 2015

The reliability modeling of a module in a turbine engine requires knowledge of its failure rate, which can be estimated by identifying statistical distributions describing the percentage of failure per component within the turbine module. The correct definition of the failure statistical behavior per component is highly dependent on the engineer skills and may present significant discrepancies with respect to the historical data. There is no formal methodology to approach this problem and a large number of labor hours are spent trying to reduce the discrepancy by manually adjusting the distribution’s parameters. This paper addresses this problem and provides a simulation-based optimization method for the minimization of the discrepancy between the simulated and the historical percentage of failures for turbine engine components. The proposed methodology optimizes the parameter values of the component’s failure statistical distributions within the component’s likelihood confidence bounds. A complete testing of the proposed method is performed on a turbine engine case study. The method can be considered as a decision-making tool for maintenance, repair, and overhaul companies and will potentially reduce the cost of labor associated to finding the appropriate value of the distribution parameters for each component/failure mode in the model and increase the accuracy in the prediction of the mean time to failures (MTTF).
Mastication as a Stress-Coping Behavior
Authors: Kubo Kin-ya , Iinuma Mitsuo , Chen Huayue
Published: May 2015

Exposure to chronic stress induces various physical and mental effects that may ultimately lead to disease. Stress-related disease has become a global health problem. Mastication (chewing) is an effective behavior for coping with stress, likely due to the alterations chewing causes in the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and autonomic nervous system. Mastication under stressful conditions attenuates stress-induced increases in plasma corticosterone and catecholamines, as well as the expression of stress-related substances, such as neurotrophic factors and nitric oxide. Further, chewing reduces stress-induced changes in central nervous system morphology, especially in the hippocampus and hypothalamus. In rodents, chewing or biting on wooden sticks during exposure to various stressors reduces stress-induced gastric ulcer formation and attenuates spatial cognitive dysfunction, anxiety-like behavior, and bone loss. In humans, some studies demonstrate that chewing gum during exposure to stress decreases plasma and salivary cortisol levels and reduces mental stress, although other studies report no such effect. Here, we discuss the neuronal mechanisms that underline the interactions between masticatory function and stress-coping behaviors in animals and humans.
Williams-Beuren Syndrome: A Clinical Study of 55 Brazilian Patients and the Diagnostic Use of MLPA
Authors: Honjo Rachel Sayuri , Dutra Roberta Lelis , Furusawa Erika Arai , Zanardo Evelin Aline , Costa Larissa Sampaio de Athayde , Kulikowski Leslie Domenici , Bertola Debora Romeo , Kim Chong Ae
Published: May 2015

Williams-Beuren syndrome (WBS) is a genetic disease caused by a microdeletion in the 7q11.23 region. It is characterized by congenital heart disease, mainly supravalvular aortic stenosis, mental retardation, mild short stature, facial dysmorphisms, and variable abnormalities in different systems.Objectives. To report the clinical findings of 55 Brazilian patients confirmed by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA).Methods. Patients were followed up for 4 years at the Genetics Unit of the Instituto da Criança of the Hospital das Clínicas, FMUSP, Brazil. A kit specific for WBS was used to detect the 7q11.23 microdeletion.Results. Two patients with negative FISH results had positive MLPA results for WBS. The characteristics of the patients with the deletion were as follows: typical WBS facies (98.2%), neuropsychomotor delay (98.2%), hypersocial behavior (94.5%), hyperacusis (94.5%), and congenital heart disease (81.8%).Conclusions. MLPA was effective in detecting the microdeletion in the 7q11.23 region to confirm the diagnosis of WBS. MLPA was also able to confirm the diagnosis of WBS in two patients with typical clinical characteristics but negative FISH results. Thus, MLPA is a promising method in the diagnostic investigation of WBS. WBS is a multisystemic disorder and therefore requires multidisciplinary care and specific follow-up to prevent complications.
Office Hysteroscopic Laser Enucleation of Submucous Myomas without Mass Extraction: A Case Series Study
Authors: Haimovich Sergio , López-Yarto Maite , Urresta Ávila Julio , Saavedra Tascón Alejandro , Hernández José L. , Carreras Collado Ramón
Published: May 2015

Background and Objectives. A new two-step hysteroscopic myomectomy carried out in the office setting and without anesthesia was feasible for the excision of submucous myomas. The objective of this study was to assess whether removal of submucous myomas from the uterine cavity after hysteroscopic laser enucleation is necessary.Methods. Between June 2009 and April 2013, all outpatients with symptomatic myomatosis (bleeding, pelvic pain, and infertility) assessed ultrasonographically were eligible to participate in a prospective study. All patients underwent office hysteroscopic enucleation of submucous myomas. Enucleated myomas were left in the uterine cavity. Neither anesthesia nor antibiotic prophylaxis was used.Results. Sixty-one women (mean age: 47.3 years) were included. Regardless of hysteroscopic localization and grading, all myomas were enucleated. The mean (standard deviation, SD) diameter of the myoma as measured by the ultrasound scan was 22.6 (8.5) mm. In 29 cases (47.5%), the diameter of the resected myoma was >20 mm and in 10 cases (16.4%) >30 mm. After a mean follow-up of 68.2 (16.5) days, none of the patients showed a residual myoma inside the uterine cavity.Conclusions. The present results indicate that leaving laser-enucleated submucous myoma in the uterine cavity is a feasible and safe therapeutic option.
Decreased Insulin Sensitivity and Impaired Fibrinolytic Activity in Type 2 Diabetes Patients and Nondiabetics with Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Jotic Aleksandra , Milicic Tanja , Covickovic Sternic Nadezda , Kostic Vladimir S. , Lalic Katarina , Jeremic Veljko , Mijajlovic Milija , Lukic Ljiljana , Rajkovic Natasa , Civcic Milorad , Macesic Marija , Seferovic Jelena P. , Stanarcic Jelena , Aleksic Sandra , Lalic Nebojsa M.
Published: May 2015

We analyzed (a) insulin sensitivity (IS), (b) plasma insulin (PI), and (c) plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) in type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients with (group A) and without (group B) atherothrombotic ischemic stroke (ATIS), nondiabetics with ATIS (group C), and healthy controls (group D). IS was determined by minimal model (Si). Si was lower in A versus B (1.18±0.67versus2.82±0.61 min−1/mU/L × 104;P<0.001) and in C versus D (3.18±0.93versus6.13±1.69 min−1/mU/L × 104;P<0.001). PI and PAI-1 were higher in A versus B (PI:19.61±4.08versus14.91±1.66 mU/L;P<0.001, PAI-1:7.75±1.04versus4.57±0.72 mU/L;P<0.001) and in C versus D (PI:15.14±2.20versus7.58±2.05 mU/L;P<0.001, PAI-1:4.78±0.98versus3.49±1.04 mU/L;P<0.001). Si correlated with PAI-1 in T2D patients and nondiabetics, albeit stronger in T2D. Binary logistic regression identified insulin, PAI-1, and Si as independent predictors for ATIS in T2D patients and nondiabetics. The results imply that insulin resistance and fasting hyperinsulinemia might exert their atherogenic impact through the impaired fibrinolysis.
Fuzzy Evidential Reasoning Approach for LCMS Competitiveness Evaluation under Incomplete Information
Authors: Gong Bengang , Zhang Xiaoqi , Guo Dandan , Gui Yunmiao
Published: May 2015

In order to evaluate scientifically low carbon manufacturing system (LCMS) competitiveness under incomplete information, this paper, using fuzzy mathematics theory and evidential reasoning approach, proposes an evaluation method. Firstly, through fuzzy evaluation the influence factors of LCMS competitiveness are characterized by a set of evaluation grades. Secondly, the analytical evidential theory algorithms are used to aggregate the evaluation grades of multiple influence factors, and the assessed values of LCMS competitiveness are obtained under each evaluation index and the system overall goal. According to the evaluation value, the key influence factors of LCMS competitiveness, which need to be improved and enhanced, are found. Lastly, a numerical example is provided.
A Novel Application of Multiscale Entropy in Electroencephalography to Predict the Efficacy of Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitor in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Tsai Ping-Huang , Chang Shih-Chieh , Liu Fang-Chun , Tsao Jenho , Wang Yung-Hung , Lo Men-Tzung
Published: May 2015

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. According to one hypothesis, AD is caused by the reduced synthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Therefore, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors are considered to be an effective therapy. For clinicians, however, AChE inhibitors are not a predictable treatment for individual patients. We aimed to disclose the difference by biosignal processing. In this study, we used multiscale entropy (MSE) analysis, which can disclose the embedded information in different time scales, in electroencephalography (EEG), in an attempt to predict the efficacy of AChE inhibitors. Seventeen newly diagnosed AD patients were enrolled, with an initial minimental state examination (MMSE) score of18.8±4.5. After 12 months of AChE inhibitor therapy, 7 patients were responsive and 10 patients were nonresponsive. The major difference between these two groups is Slope 2 (MSE6 to 20). The area below the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of Slope 2 is 0.871 (95% CI = 0.69–1). The sensitivity is 85.7% and the specificity is 60%, whereas the cut-off value of Slope 2 is −0.024. Therefore, MSE analysis of EEG signals, especially Slope 2, provides a potential tool for predicting the efficacy of AChE inhibitors prior to therapy.
Application of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound in Cystic Pancreatic Lesions Using a Simplified Classification Diagnostic Criterion
Authors: Fan Zhihui , Yan Kun , Wang Yanjie , Qiu Jianxing , Wu Wei , Yang Lei , Chen Minhua
Published: May 2015

Objective. Classification diagnosis was performed for cystic pancreatic lesions using ultrasound (US) and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) to explore the diagnostic value of CEUS by comparison with enhanced CT. Methods. Sixty-four cases with cystic pancreatic lesions were included in this study. The cystic lesions of pancreas were classified into four types by US, CEUS, and CT: type I unilocular cysts; type II microcystic lesions; type III macrocystic lesions; and type IV cystic lesions with solid components or irregular thickening of the cystic wall or septa. Results. Eighteen type I, 7 type II, 10 type III, and 29 type IV cases were diagnosed by CT. The classification results by US were as follows: 6 type I; 5 type II; 4 type III; and 49 type IV cases. Compared with the results by enhanced CT, the kappa value was 0.36. Using CEUS, 15, 6, 12, and 31 cases were diagnosed as types I–IV, respectively. The kappa value was 0.77. Conclusion. CEUS has obvious superiority over US in the classification diagnostic accuracy in cystic pancreatic lesions and CEUS results showed substantial agreement with enhanced CT. CEUS could contribute to the differential diagnosis of cystic pancreatic diseases.
Cognition in Ring-Tailed Lemurs
Authors: Kittler Klara , Schnoell Anna Viktoria , Fichtel Claudia
Published: May 2015

In order to better understand the evolution of cognitive abilities in primates, information on cognitive traits of the most basal living primates can provide important comparative baseline data. Compared to haplorhine primates, lemurs have relatively smaller brains and reduced abilities to solve problems in the technical and social domain. However, recent studies have suggested that some cognitive abilities of lemurs are qualitatively equal to those of haplorhines. Here, we review studies investigating cognitive abilities in the technical and social domain of ring-tailed lemur cognition. In the physical domain, ring-tailed lemurs exhibit similar qualitative cognitive skills as other lemurs but also haplorhine primates. In the social domain, ring-tailed lemurs appear to be more skilled in visual perspective taking than other lemurs. Compared to other lemurs, they also have highly elaborated communicative skills. Moreover, within-group coalitions have been observed in female ring-tailed lemurs during rare events of female evictions but not in other lemur species. However, in several other aspects of social cognition, such as reconciliation and social learning, ring-tailed lemurs' cognitive abilities are equal to those of other lemurs. Thus, additional systematic comparative studies in physical and social cognition are required for a more comprehensive understanding of the processes of cognitive evolution among primates.
Beyond the Gallery Forest: Contrasting Habitat and Diet in Lemur catta Troops at Bezà Mahafaly Special Reserve
Authors: Yamashita Nayuta , Sauther Michelle L. , Cuozzo Frank P. , Jacky Ibrahim Antho Youssouf
Published: May 2015

Ring-tailed lemurs have been studied intensively in the Parcel 1 gallery forest of Bezà Mahafaly Special Reserve. Here, we report on lemur groups in a mixture of deciduous dry forest and spiny forest just 5 km to the west. Compared to Parcel 1, Parcel 2 (P2) has a lower density of Tamarindus indica, a major dietary plant species for gallery forest lemurs. Recent studies in drier habitats have called into question the association of lemur density and tamarind presence. In order to address this question, we measured forest structure and composition of plant plots between parcels and conducted lemur feeding observations. The trees and shrubs within the parcels did not differ in height or diameter at breast height, but the frequencies of plant species that were common between parcels were significantly different. Numbers of feeding observations on foods common to both parcels did not differ, but their relative rankings within parcels did. Frequencies of food plants corresponded to earlier reports of lemur population densities. However, we found that the ring-tailed lemur diet is a mixture of plants that are eaten in abundance regardless of frequency and those that are locally available. In terms of their reliance on Tamarindus, P2 animals appear intermediate between those in gallery forests and nontamarind sites.
Ring-Tailed Lemur (Lemur catta) Health Parameters across Two Habitats with Varied Levels of Human Disturbance at the Bezà Mahafaly Special Reserve, Madagascar
Authors: Singleton Cora L. , Norris Aimee M. , Sauther Michelle L. , Cuozzo Frank P. , Jacky Ibrahim Antho Youssouf
Published: May 2015

The health of 36 wild, free-ranging ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) at the Bezà Mahafaly Special Reserve was assessed across 2 habitats of varied human impact: a reserve riverine gallery forest, and a degraded mixed dry deciduous and Alluaudia-dominated spiny forest. While there were no statistically significant differences in leukocyte count or differential between habitats, female lemurs in the reserve gallery forest had significantly higher percentages of monocytes and eosinophils than male lemurs in the gallery forest. Lemurs from the degraded spiny habitat had significantly higher mean packed cell volume, hematocrit, hemoglobin, total protein, blood urea nitrogen, chloride, ionized calcium and urine specific gravity than lemurs from the reserve gallery forest. These findings may reflect lower hydration levels in lemurs living in degraded habitat, providing evidence that environmental degradation has identifiable impacts on the physiology and health of wild, free-ranging ring-tailed lemurs living in nearby habitats. Given the greater evidence of human impact in the mixed dry deciduous/spiny forest habitat, a pattern seen throughout southern Madagascar, biomedical markers suggestive of decreased hydration can provide empirical data to inform new conservation policies facilitating the long-term survival of this lemur community.
Seasonal Feeding Ecology of Ring-Tailed Lemurs: A Comparison of Spiny and Gallery Forest Habitats
Authors: LaFleur Marni , Sauther Michelle L.
Published: May 2015

Although Lemur catta persists in many habitat types in southern Madagascar, its ecology has been primarily studied within gallery forests. We compare plant food selection and properties for ring-tailed lemurs in the spiny and gallery forests over the synchronized lactation period (September to March) that includes both the dry and wet seasons. We found no significant habitat-specific differences in the type of plant part consumed per month (i.e. flower, fruit, leaf) or between the intake of soluble carbohydrates. However, the presence and use of Tamarindus indica plants appear to elevate protein and fiber intake in the gallery forest lemurs' diets. Protein is especially important for reproductive females who incur the added metabolic costs associated with lactation; however, fiber can disrupt protein digestion. Future work should continue to investigate how variations of protein and fiber affect ring-tailed lemur dietary choice and nutrient acquisition.
Clinical Application of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells in Cardiovascular Medicine
Authors: Chi Hong-jie , Gao Song , Yang Xin-chun , Cai Jun , Zhao Wen-shu , Sun Hao , Geng Yong-Jian
Published: May 2015

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are generated by reprogramming human somatic cells through the overexpression of four transcription factors: Oct4, Sox2, Klf4 and c-Myc. iPSCs are capable of indefinite self-renewal, and they can differentiate into almost any type of cell in the body. These cells therefore offer a highly valuable therapeutic strategy for tissue repair and regeneration. Recent experimental and preclinical research has revealed their potential for cardiovascular disease diagnosis, drug screening and cellular replacement therapy. Nevertheless, significant challenges remain in terms of the development and clinical application of human iPSCs. Here, we review current progress in research related to patient-specific iPSCs for ex vivo modeling of cardiovascular disorders and drug screening, and explore the potential of human iPSCs for use in the field of cardiovascular regenerative medicine.
Isolation and Characterization of CD271+ Stem Cells Derived from Sheep Dermal Skin
Authors: Jahroomishirazi Roomina , Bader Augustinus , Ebert Sabine , Schmidt Christian , Sedaghati Bita , Schulz-Siegmund Michaela , Zscharnack Matthias
Published: May 2015

Background: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have great promise in the field of regenerative medicine due to their differentiation potential into several lineages. Besides the bone marrow, MSCs can be obtained from the dermis, which represents a large stem cell reservoir in the skin. Sheep provide an appropriate large animal model for preclinical studies. In this study, we focused on the isolation and characterization of MSCs from sheep dermis as an alternative to bone marrow MSCs (bmMSCs). Methods: Primary ovine cells were obtained from the dermis for comparison with bone marrow. CD271+/45- dermal MSCs (CD271-dMSCs), which were sorted by flow cytometry, and plastic-adherent bmMSCs were examined for morphology, proliferation and senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity in both low and high oxygen conditions. CD271 expression on cultured cells was assessed by flow cytometry. Adipogenic and osteogenic potentials of CD271-dMSCs were evaluated by oil red O and von Kossa staining. Chondrogenic capacity of CD271-dMSCs and CD271+/CD45- bone marrow cells (CD271-bmMSCs) was detected using immunohistochemistry and measurement of sulfated glycosaminoglycans. Results: The cell proliferation assay demonstrated no significant difference between CD271-dMSCs and bmMSCs under low oxygen conditions. Cultured CD271-dMSCs revealed much more CD271 expression compared to CD271-bmMSCs. CD271-dMSCs and CD271-bmMSCs showed basically similar expression of the cartilage-specific proteins aggrecan and collagen type II, although with a stronger staining in CD271-bmMSC-derived cultures. Remarkably, there was co-expression of CD271 and aggrecan during chondrogenic differentiation, suggesting an involvement of CD271 in chondrogenesis. Conclusion: Based on these findings, CD271-dMSCs might serve as an appropriate alternative cell source in preclinical research.
Differentiating Transient Idiopathic Hyperglycaemia and Neonatal Diabetes Mellitus in Preterm Infants
Authors: Busiah Kanetee , Auger Julie , Fauret-Amsellem Anne-Laure , Dahan Sonia , Pouvreau Nathalie , Cavé Hélène , Polak Michel , Mitanchez Delphine
Published: May 2015

Background/Aims: Transient idiopathic hyperglycaemia (TIH) is partly due to defective processing of proinsulin to insulin in preterm neonates, whereas transient neonatal diabetes mellitus (TNDM) is a rare genetic form of pancreatic β-cell dysfunction. Distinguishing these two conditions is difficult yet essential to allow personalised management and genetic testing. Here we investigated whether metabolic or therapeutic features contributed to the diagnosis in preterm neonates. Methods: We prospectively included 13 preterm neonates with TIH between 2008 and 2011, and we identified 2 patients with TNDM in the French neonatal diabetes cohort registry. All of them were born before 32 weeks of gestation. We compared clinical features, glycaemic profiles, insulin dosages, and nutritional intakes. Results: TNDM patients had higher day-1 glycaemia levels before insulin therapy [median 23.5 (20-27) vs. 13.6 (10.7-19.8) mmol/l, p = 0.025] and higher insulin requirements [median 1.2 (0.9-1.5) vs. 0.8 (0.3-0.9) IU/kg/day, p = 0.037] compared to TIH. They also required insulin therapy earlier [median 0.75 (0.5-1) vs. 2 (0.5-7) days, p = 0.036] and for a longer time [median 85 (57-113) vs. 11 (4-15) days, p = 0.036]. Conclusion: TNDM and TIH are different clinical and genetic entities with specific pathophysiological mechanisms. Metabolic and therapeutic features may help to detect TNDM in preterm neonates as soon as day-1 of hyperglycaemia.