bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcomes of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Priming and Nonpriming in in vitro Maturation of Oocytes in Infertile Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Single-Blinded Randomized Study
Authors: Choavaratana Roungsin , Thanaboonyawat Isarin , Laokirkkiat Pitak , Prechapanich Japarath , Suksompong Singpetch , Mekemaharn Orawan , Petyim Somsin
Published: December 2014

Background/Aims: Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) priming has been studied in in vitro matured oocytes for oocyte maturation rate, embryo quality, and pregnancy rate with discouraging results. This study aimed to initiate FSH stimulation later, i.e. on day 6, to prolong natural endometrial priming and promote oocyte maturation. Methods: Forty polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) patients were enrolled into a single, blinded (investigator), randomized, controlled study, and randomly allocated to group 1 (no FSH priming) or group 2 (day 6 recombinant FSH priming). Oocytes were retrieved after human chorionic gonadotropin injection on day 10. After 27 or 51 h of incubation, only mature oocytes were denuded and fertilized by intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Two day 3 embryos were transferred in most patients. Rates of oocyte maturation, cleavage, and pregnancy were compared. Results: The oocyte maturation rates within 51 h were 62.6 and 72.7% in groups 1 and 2, respectively (p < 0.01). The embryo cleavage rate was significantly higher in group 2 than in group 1 (77.3 vs. 63.6%, p < 0.05). The pregnancy rate was higher in group 1 than in group 2 (50 vs. 30%, p > 0.05). Conclusion: FSH priming is beneficial for promotion of the maturation and quality of oocytes, leading to a higher embryo cleavage rate and lower rate of pregnancy loss.
Pericardiocentesis Adverse Event Risk Factors: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Ho Ming-Yun , Wang Jian-Liang , Lin Yu-Sheng , Mao Chun-Tai , Tsai Ming-Lung , Wen Ming-Shien , Wang Chun-Chieh , Hsieh I-Chang , Hung Kuo-Chun , Wang Chao-Yung , Wu Huang-Pin , Chen Tien-Hsing
Published: December 2014

Objectives: Echocardiography-guided pericardiocentesis has been the leading procedure for diagnosis and therapy of pericardial effusion. We aimed to identify risk factors for recurrence, complications, and mortality in pericardial effusion patients treated with pericardiocentesis. Methods: We identified and collected data from 8,101 patients receiving pericardiocentesis between 1997 and 2010 from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. A multivariate regression model was used to investigate risk factors for recurrence, complications, and death. Results: There were 8,565 admissions among 8,101 patients. The most common underlying condition was malignancy (41%), especially lung cancer (23%), tuberculosis (9.0%), and acute pericarditis (8.2%). Surgical drainage was required in 12.7% of cases. Recurrence was more likely in patients with malignancy (HR 2.20, p < 0.001), but complications were less likely (OR 0.52, p = 0.003). In-hospital death numbers and complication risks (OR 2.38, p < 0.001; OR 1.27, p = 0.01) were greater in the catheter-related cardiac procedure group than in the other groups. Conclusions: Malignant neoplasms and catheter-based cardiac procedures have become major risk factors for adverse events in patients receiving pericardiocentesis in Taiwan. Malignancy leads to an increase in recurrence and in-hospital mortality but is associated with a lower rate of acute complications. Cardiac catheterization procedures and surgery increase both complications and in-hospital mortality. i 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Increased Arterial Stiffness after Coronary Artery Revascularization Correlates with Serious Coronary Artery Lesions and Poor Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Zhu Zhengbin , Yan Zijun , Zhang Lin , Du Run , Zhu Jinzhou , Zuo Junli , Chu Shaoli , Shen Weifeng , Zhang Ruiyan
Published: December 2014

Objectives: This study aimed to clarify the relationship between arterial stiffness and coronary artery lesions as well as their influence on long-term outcomes after coronary artery revascularization in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Methods: A total of 205 patients who had a coronary angiography and received coronary artery revascularization on demand were enrolled and followed up for 5 years. Demographic and clinical indicators, arterial stiffness indexes, angiographic characteristics and the Gensini score (GS) were recorded at baseline. Major adverse cardiac events (MACE), including cardiac death and repeat coronary artery revascularization, that occurred during the 5 years of follow-up were also recorded. Results: All indexes reflecting the degree of arterial stiffness, including PWV, C1, C2, CSBP, CDBP, AP and Aix, were significantly higher in CKD than in non-CKD patients (all p < 0.05). Patients with CKD also had a higher rate of coronary artery disease and a higher GS (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). Logistic regression analysis revealed CKD to be an independent risk factor for increased arterial stiffness (OR = 2.508, 95% CI 1.308-4.808, p = 0.006). During follow-up, CKD patients with PWV >13 m/s or Aix@75 >30 had a significantly higher MACE occurrence rate after coronary artery revascularization (both p < 0.05). Conclusion: These results highlight that CKD and arterial stiffness correlate with the severity of coronary artery lesions. CKD patients with impaired arterial stiffness have poor clinical outcomes, suggesting a further clinical use of the arterial stiffness index as a surrogate of worse cardiovascular prognosis in CKD than in non-CKD patients. i 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Surfactant Proteins A, B, C and D in the Human Nasal Airway: Associated with Mucosal Glands and Ciliated Epithelium but Absent in Fluid-Phase Secretions and Mucus
Authors: Gaunsbaek Maria Q. , Kjeldsen Anette D. , Svane-Knudsen Viggo , Henriksen Maiken L. , Hansen Soren
Published: December 2014

Aims: To investigate the presence of surfactant protein (SP) A, B, C and D in nasal airways and to determine whether the proteins exert their main functions in nasal secretions or in the deeper layers of the nasal mucosa. Methods: Volunteers were recruited from the Department of ENT Head and Neck Surgery, Odense University Hospital, Denmark. The study included 39 subjects. Nasal mucosal biopsies were analyzed by immunohistochemistry, and bronchoalveolar and nasal lavages, nasal brush biopsies and nasal mucus were analyzed for SP-A, -B, -C and -D by SDS-PAGE and Western blotting. The presence of SP-A and SP-D in the first three samplings were also analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: In nasal mucosal biopsies, SP-A, -B, -C and -D were all demonstrated in the serous acini of the submucosal glands and in the surface epithelium. SP-D was detected in nasal brush biopsies, whereas the other SPs were absent. Moreover, SP-A, -B, -C and -D were absent in nasal lavage and mucus. Conclusion: SP-A, -B, -C and -D exert their protective effect in the ductal epithelium of the submucosal glands rather than in nasal secretions and mucus. Further studies are required to clarify the functions of these proteins in nasal secretory pathways for understanding upper airway diseases. i 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Comparison of Methods for the Measurement of Body Composition in Overweight and Obese Brazilian Children and Adolescents before and after a Lifestyle Modification Program
Authors: Lyra Arthur , Bonfitto Alexandre José , Barbosa Vera Lucia P. , Bezerra Ana Cristina , Longui Carlos Alberto , Monte Osmar , Kochi Cristiane
Published: December 2014

Aim: To compare the body composition of overweight children and adolescents by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) before and after physical activity program. Methods: One hundred and eleven patients with mean age (SD) of 12 (1.9) participated in the study. We assessed the weight, height, waist circumference (WC), and body composition by DXA and BIA. Patients underwent a program of diet and physical activity (1 h 30 min/day, 3 times a week for 3 months) and were evaluated before and after this period. Results: Mean initial zBMI were 2.3 (0.5) and waist SDS 5.9 (1.8). Significant differences were observed when we compared the measurements taken by DXA and BIA, respectively: total body fat percentage (40 and 31.5) and fat-free mass (43.1 and 50.6 kg). Regarding the trunk fat by DXA, there was a positive correlation with the WC/height ratio (r = 0.65; p < 0.01). After the intervention period, we observed a reduction in the zBMI, waist SDS, and total body fat and increase of fat-free mass by DXA. BIA only detected reduction in fat. Conclusion: BIA underestimates the percentage of fat and overestimates fat-free mass in relation to DXA. There is positive correlation between trunk fat and the ratio WC/height. In addition, DXA detected changes in body composition induced by a short period of physical training, unlike BIA. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Detection of Clonal Aberrations by Cytogenetic Analysis after Different Culture Methods and by FISH in 129 Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Jenderny Jutta , Goldmann Claudia , Thede Rebekka , Ebrecht Monika , Korioth Frank
Published: December 2014

There are only a few cytogenetic analysis (CA) studies that directly compare the novel cultivation technique using immunostimulatory CpG-oligonucleotide DSP30/interleukin-2 (DSP30/IL2) with other culture methods. Therefore, parallel cultures of peripheral blood of 129 chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients were set up in unstimulated cultures, in the presence of pokeweed medium (PWM), and with DSP30/IL2. Furthermore, CA results were compared with data obtained by FISH. Clonal aberrations were observed by CA in 6% of the cases in unstimulated cultures, in 27% of the cases with PWM, and in 40% of the cases with DSP30/IL2. Some clonal aberrations were detected by CA only with one culture method. Using 3 different culture methods, clonal aberrations were detected in 41% of the cases by CA and in 71% of the cases by FISH. Altogether, 78% of the cases exhibited clonal aberrations discovered by CA and FISH. Also, CA detected clonal aberrations not targeted by FISH in 7% of the cases, and FISH identified clonal aberrations not detected by CA in 36% of the cases. Our study demonstrates that the combined use of CA with different culture methods together with FISH increases our knowledge of the genetic complexity and heterogeneity in CLL pathogenesis.
Monosomy 20 Mosaicism Revealed by Extensive Karyotyping in Blood and Skin Cells: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Hochstenbach Ron , Krijtenburg Pieter-Jaap , van der Veken Lars T. , van der Smagt Jasper , Roeleveld-Versteegh Angelique , Visser Gepke , Terhal Paulien
Published: December 2014

We describe a 13-year-old boy with developmental delay and proximal muscle weakness who has monosomy 20 mosaicism in blood and skin cells. Because of asymmetric features (difference in foot size, slightly asymmetric intergluteal cleft), we performed extensive cytogenetic studies in peripheral blood and skin. In cultured and uncultured blood lymphocytes, we found 0.9 and 6.5% of cells with monosomy 20, respectively. In addition, 3.3% of uncultured skin fibroblasts and 1.5% of buccal mucosa cells had monosomy 20. This is the fifth patient published with this chromosomal condition. These patients show variable clinical features, ranging from normal to delayed motor and speech development. There is no apparent relation between the percentage of monosomic cells as studied in blood and the severity of the phenotype. This could be due to different degrees of mosaicism in the other tissues and organs, which may vary considerably from patient to patient. The degree of monosomy 20 mosaicism in blood is in most patients below the detection limit of microarray technology. Therefore, this work illustrates the necessity of detailed cytogenetic investigation of multiple cell types in developmentally retarded patients with normal microarray results, especially when there are subtle physical indications of chromosomal mosaicism.
Bilateral Macular Edema in a Patient Treated with Tamoxifen: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Zafeiropoulos Paraskevas , Nanos Panagiotis , Tsigkoulis Evangelos , Stefaniotou Maria
Published: December 2014

We present a case of a 41-year-old female patient with progressive bilateral visual loss. On examination, her best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in her right eye was 3/10 and her BCVA in her left eye was 2/10. Fundus and optical coherence tomography examination revealed severe bilateral macular edema. She had been diagnosed with breast cancer 6 years ago and was receiving tamoxifen at a dosage of 20 mg/day ever since. Tamoxifen therapy was discontinued, and the patient received 250 mg of acetazolamide three times a day for a period of 1 month. Both foveae regained their normal contour within 2 months, and her vision was restored to 10/10 BCVA 3 months later. To our knowledge, this is the first case reported where bilateral intraretinal macular edema is the only retinal manifestation in a patient on oral tamoxifen.
Acute Hemodynamic Decompensation During Catheter Ablation of Scar-Related Ventricular Tachycardia
Authors: Santangeli Pasquale , Muser Daniele , Zado Erica S. , Magnani Silvia , Khetpal Sumun , Hutchinson Mathew D. , Supple Gregory , Frankel David S. , Garcia Fermin C. , Bala Rupa , Riley Michael P. , Lin David , Rame J. Eduardo , Schaller Robert , Dixit Sanjay , Marchlinski Francis E. , Callans David J.
Published: December 2014

Background—

The occurrence of periprocedural acute hemodynamic decompensation (AHD) in patients undergoing radiofrequency catheter ablation of scar-related ventricular tachycardia (VT) has not been previously investigated.

Methods and Results—

We identified univariate predictors of periprocedural AHD in 193 consecutive patients undergoing radiofrequency catheter ablation of scar-related VT. AHD was defined as persistent hypotension despite vasopressors and requiring mechanical support or procedure discontinuation. AHD occurred in 22 (11%) patients. Compared with the rest of the population, patients with AHD were older (68.5±10.7 versus 61.6±15.0 years;
P
=0.037); had a higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus (36% versus 18%;
P
=0.045), ischemic cardiomyopathy (86% versus 52%;
P
=0.002), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (41% versus 13%;
P
=0.001), and VT storm (77% versus 43%;
P
=0.002); had more severe heart failure (New York Heart Association class III/IV: 55% versus 15%,
P
<0.001; left ventricular ejection fraction: 26±10% versus 36±16%,
P
=0.003); and more often received periprocedural general anesthesia (59% versus 29%;
P
=0.004). At 21±7 months follow-up, the mortality rate was higher in the AHD group compared with the rest of the population (50% versus 11%, log-rank
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

AHD occurs in 11% of patients undergoing radiofrequency catheter ablation of scar-related VT and is associated with increased risk of mortality over follow-up. AHD may be predicted by clinical factors, including advanced age, ischemic cardiomyopathy, more severe heart failure status (New York Heart Association class III/IV, lower ejection fraction), associated comorbidities (diabetes mellitus and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), presentation with VT storm, and use of general anesthesia.
Evidence That Links Loss of Cyclooxygenase-2 With Increased Asymmetric Dimethylarginine
Authors: Ahmetaj-Shala Blerina , Kirkby Nicholas S. , Knowles Rebecca , Al’Yamani Malak , Mazi Sarah , Wang Zhen , Tucker Arthur T. , Mackenzie Louise , Armstrong Paul C. J. , Nüsing Rolf M. , Tomlinson James A. P. , Warner Timothy D. , Leiper James , Mitchell Jane A.
Published: December 2014

Background—

Cardiovascular side effects associated with cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor drugs dominate clinical concern. Cyclooxygenase-2 is expressed in the renal medulla where inhibition causes fluid retention and increased blood pressure. However, the mechanisms linking cyclooxygenase-2 inhibition and cardiovascular events are unknown and no biomarkers have been identified.

Methods and Results—

Transcriptome analysis of wild-type and cyclooxygenase-2
−/−
mouse tissues revealed 1 gene altered in the heart and aorta, but >1000 genes altered in the renal medulla, including those regulating the endogenous nitric oxide synthase inhibitors asymmetrical dimethylarginine (ADMA) and monomethyl-
l
-arginine. Cyclo-oxygenase-2
−/−
mice had increased plasma levels of ADMA and monomethyl-
l
-arginine and reduced endothelial nitric oxide responses. These genes and methylarginines were not similarly altered in mice lacking prostacyclin receptors. Wild-type mice or human volunteers taking cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors also showed increased plasma ADMA. Endothelial nitric oxide is cardio-protective, reducing thrombosis and atherosclerosis. Consequently, increased ADMA is associated with cardiovascular disease. Thus, our study identifies ADMA as a biomarker and mechanistic bridge between renal cyclooxygenase-2 inhibition and systemic vascular dysfunction with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug usage.

Conclusions—

We identify the endogenous endothelial nitric oxide synthase inhibitor ADMA as a biomarker and mechanistic bridge between renal cyclooxygenase-2 inhibition and systemic vascular dysfunction.
Residual High-Grade Stenosis After Recanalization of Extracranial Carotid Occlusion in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Luitse Merel J.A. , Velthuis Birgitta K. , Dauwan Meenakshi , Dankbaar Jan Willem , Biessels Geert Jan , Kappelle L. Jaap , Majoie C.B. , Roos Y.B. , Duijm L.E. , Keizer K. , van der Lugt A. , Dippel D.W. , Droogh-de Greve K.E. , Bienfait H.P. , van Walderveen M.A. , Wermer M.J. , Lycklama à Nijeholt G.J. , Boiten J. , Duyndam D.A. , Kwa V.I. , Meijer F.J. , van Dijk E.J. , Kesselring F.O. , Hofmeijer J. , Vos J.A. , Schonewille W.J. , van Rooij W.J. , de Kort P.L. , Pleiter C.C. , Bakker S.L. , Bot J.C. , Visser M.C. , van der Schaaf I.C. , Mali W.P. , van Seeters T. , Horsch A.D. , Niesten J.M. , van der Graaf Y.
Published: December 2014

Background and Purpose—

Residual stenosis after recanalization of an acute symptomatic extracranial occlusion of the internal carotid artery (ICA) might be an indication for carotid endarterectomy. We evaluated the proportion of residual high-grade stenosis (≥70%, near occlusions not included) on follow-up imaging in a consecutive series of patients with an acute symptomatic occlusion of the extracranial ICA.

Methods—

We included patients participating in the Dutch Acute Stroke Study (DUST), who had an acute symptomatic occlusion of the extracranial ICA that was diagnosed on computed tomographic angiography within 9 hours after onset of neurological symptoms. Follow-up imaging of the carotid artery had to be available within 7 days after admission.

Results—

Of the 1021 patients participating in DUST between May 2009 and May 2013, an acute symptomatic occlusion of the extracranial ICA was found in 126 (12.3%) patients. Follow-up imaging was available in 86 (68.3%) of these patients. At follow-up, a residual stenosis of <30% was found in 15 (17.4%; 95% confidence interval, 10.8–26.9) patients, a 30% to 49% stenosis in 3 (3.5%; 95% confidence interval, 0.8–10.2) patients, a 50% to 69% stenosis in 2 (2.3%; 95% confidence interval, 0.1–8.6) patients, and a ≥70% stenosis in 14 (16.3%; 95% confidence interval, 9.8–25.6) patients. A near or persistent occlusion was present in the remaining 52 (60.5%) patients.

Conclusions—

A residual high-grade stenosis of the extracranial ICA occurs in 1 of 6 patients with a symptomatic occlusion in the acute stage of cerebral ischemia. Because this may have implications for secondary prevention, we recommend follow-up imaging in these patients within a week after the event.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00880113.
A Children’s Rights Perspective on Food Advertising to Children
Authors: Handsley Elizabeth , Nehmy Christopher , Mehta Kaye , Coveney John
Published: December 2014

This article applies the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child to the regulation of food advertising for the prevention of childhood obesity, evaluating the advertising regulation in six jurisdictions against the principles of the Convention. It finds that the Convention would support strict regulation of food advertising for the prevention of childhood obesity; and in particular that such regulation would be appropriate to the model of co-operation between the state and parents that the Convention posits. The article also raises the question whether the grooming of children as consumers through advertising might be a form of economic exploitation.
Precipitation Forecasting with Gamma Distribution Models for Gridded Precipitation Events in Eastern Oklahoma and Northwestern Arkansas*
Authors: Amburn Steven A. , Lang Andrew S. I. D. , Buonaiuto Michael A.
Published: December 2014

An elegant and easy to implement probabilistic quantitative precipitation forecasting model that can be used to estimate the probability of exceedance (POE) is presented. The model was built using precipitation data collected across eastern Oklahoma and northwestern Arkansas from late 2005 through early 2013. The dataset includes precipitation analyses at 4578 contiguous, 4 km × 4 km grid cells for 1800 precipitation events of 12 h. The dataset is unique in that the meteorological conditions for each 12-h event were relatively homogeneous when contrasted with single-point data obtained over months or years where the meteorological conditions for each rain event could have varied widely. Grid cells were counted and stratified by precipitation amount in increments of 0.05 in. (1.27 mm) up to 10 in. (254 mm), yielding histograms for each event. POEs were computed from the observed precipitation distributions and compared to POEs computed from two gamma probability density functions ( and ). The errors between the observed POEs and gamma-computed POEs ranged between 2% and 10%, depending on the threshold POE selected for the comparison. This accuracy suggests the gamma models could be used to make reasonably accurate estimates of POE, given the percent areal coverage and the mean precipitation over the area. Finally, it is suggested that the areal distribution for each event is representative of the distribution at any point in the area over a large number of similar events. It then follows that the gamma models can be used to make forecasts for the probability of exceedance at a point, given the probability of rain and the expected mean rainfall at that same point.
Starting With Style
Authors: Petchauer Emery
Published: December 2014

One fundamental breakthrough in the field of hip-hop education in recent years is the shift from understanding hip-hop solely as content to understanding hip-hop also as aesthetic form. In this article, I chart the roots of this shift across disciplines and focus on what it might mean for the future of hip-hop education, pedagogy, and research in context with urban education. I outline how this thread might become the sine qua non of an emerging second wave of hip-hop education research and practice derived primarily from aesthetic forms rather than an amalgamation of culturally relevant and critical approaches.
Neighbourhood context and social cohesion in Southernwood, East London, South Africa
Authors: Bwalya John , Seethal Cecil
Published: December 2014

This paper examines the relationship between neighbourhood context and social interactions in Southernwood, an inner-city residential suburb in East London, South Africa. Based on interviews with selected residents and community leaders, the paper identifies six contextual variables which influenced neighbourhood social cohesion in the suburb. Contrary to expectations, interview data showed benign effects of racial diversity while social disorganisation accounted for much of the reported low levels of social cohesion in the neighbourhoods. The paper observes that while neighbourhood context has a bearing on the nature of neighbourhood social cohesion, multiple contexts within proximate spaces of neighbourhoods create variegated forms of intra- and inter-neighbourhood social cohesion.
The Other Average Man: Science Workers in Quetelet’s Belgium
Authors: Donnelly Kevin
Published: December 2014

This paper examines the creation of what I have called “The Other Average Man” of nineteenth-century science. This other average man was created during the course of the career of the Belgian polymath Adolphe Quetelet (1796–1874) and his development of physique sociale and the controversial l’homme moyen. Rather than discuss Quetelet’s abstract average man, which has received considerable attention, the paper focuses on the real average men that Quetelet imagined would do the work of providing data for physique sociale. To do so, it investigates three moments in Quetelet’s administrative career in Belgium: his early life in Ghent and Brussels during the brief polity of the United Kingdom of the Netherlands, his remarkable transformation of the Académie Royale de Belgique in the 1820s, and an 1846 debate at the Academy on the possible determinism entailed by Quetelet’s statistical account of human behavior. These stories not only point to the creation of another average man in Quetelet’s social physics, but also demonstrate the importance of Belgium’s unique historical context for understanding one of nineteenth-century Europe’s most enduring contributions to the social sciences.
A Family of Generalized Diagnostic Classification Models for Multiple Choice Option-Based Scoring
Authors: DiBello Louis V. , Henson Robert A. , Stout William F.
Published: December 2014

This article proposes a new family of diagnostic classification models (DCM) called the Generalized Diagnostic Classification Models for Multiple Choice Option-Based Scoring (GDCM-MC). The GDCM-MC is created for multiple choice assessments with response options designed to attract particular kinds of student thinking and understanding, both desired (correct) thinking and problematic (incorrect or partially correct) thinking. Key features that combine to distinguish GDCM-MC are: (a) an expanded latent space that can include both desirable and problematic facets of thinking, (b) an expanded Q matrix that includes a row for each response option and that uses a three-valued coding scheme to specify which latent states are strongly attracted to that option, (c) a guessing component that responds to the forced choice aspect of multiple choice questions, and (d) a general modeling framework that can incorporate the diagnostic modeling functionality of almost any dichotomous DCM, such as deterministic input, noisy ``and'' gate (DINA), reparameterized unified model (RUM), loglinear cognitive diagnosis model (LCDM), or general diagnostic model (GDM). The article discusses these four components and presents the GDCM-MC model equation as a mixture of cognitive and guessing components. Two identifiability theorems are presented. A Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) model estimation algorithm is discussed, and real and simulated data studies are reported.
Recent Successes in the Identification, Development, and Qualification of Translational Biomarkers
Authors: Ennulat Daniela , Adler Scott
Published: December 2014

The development of novel safety or efficacy biomarkers has increasingly been used to improve safety monitoring and minimize attrition during drug development; however, for new biomarkers, the failure rate can equal or exceed that of new chemical entities. Drug-induced kidney injury is recognized to occur throughout the drug development process, with histopathology considered to be the gold standard for preclinical toxicologic screening. Renal biomarkers used clinically are primarily biomarkers of renal function and are considered insensitive for the detection of drug-induced kidney injury during first-in-man studies, particularly for compounds known to induce renal injury in preclinical species. Recent efforts by public–private partnerships have led to unprecedented success in the identification, development, and qualification of several new translatable biomarkers of kidney injury in the rat. To optimize the chance of success in current and future biomarker efforts in preclinical species and man, selection and development of biomarkers should emphasize biological considerations including marker variability and biology in both health and disease. The research to support the qualification of novel renal safety markers for routine use in the clinical setting is currently underway, and results from this work are greatly anticipated.
Creation and destruction in transition economies: The SME sector in Slovakia
Authors: Wilson Nick , Ochotnický Pavol , Káčer Marek
Published: December 2014

This article analyses the survival probability of privately owned small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in Slovakia during the post-communist period up to and including the recent recessionary period. We build models within a failure prediction context developing ‘transition’ variables that relate to the origin and ownership of the company. Using a sample of 126,649 sets of accounts of 44,597 SMEs in Slovakia, we identify 793 exits by failure during the period 1997–2012. We find that supplementary information relating to the transition process, in combination with the financial and non-financial variables, makes a significant contribution to the default prediction power of risk models built specifically for Slovakian SMEs. We find strong support for our hypothesis that, to some degree, foreign ownership reduces failure probability in addition, there is support for our ‘privatisation trap’ and ‘post-transformation recession’ hypotheses.
Facial affect processing deficits in schizophrenia: A meta-analysis of antipsychotic treatment effects
Authors: Gabay Anthony S , Kempton Matthew J , Mehta Mitul A
Published: December 2014

Social cognition, including emotion processing, is a recognised deficit observed in patients with schizophrenia. It is one cognitive domain which has been emphasised as requiring further investigation, with the efficacy of antipsychotic treatment on this deficit remaining unclear. Nine studies met our criteria for entry into a meta-analysis of the effects of medication on facial affect processing, including data from 1162 patients and six antipsychotics. Overall we found a small, positive effect (Hedge’s g = 0.13, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.21, p = 0.002). In a subgroup analysis this was statistically significant for atypical, but not typical, antipsychotics. It should be noted that the pooled sample size of the typical subgroup was significantly lower than the atypical. Meta-regression analyses revealed that age, gender and changes in symptom severity were not moderating factors. For the small, positive effect on facial affect processing, the clinical significance is questionable in terms of treating deficits in emotion identification in schizophrenia. We show that antipsychotic medications are poor at improving facial affect processing compared to reducing symptoms. This highlights the need for further investigation into the neuropharmacological mechanisms associated with accurate emotion processing, to inform treatment options for these deficits in schizophrenia.
Biogas and methane yield in response to co- and separate digestion of biomass wastes
Authors: Adelard Laetitia , Poulsen Tjalfe G , Rakotoniaina Volana
Published: December 2014

The impact of co-digestion as opposed to separate digestion, on biogas and methane yield (apparent synergetic effects) was investigated for three biomass materials (pig manure, cow manure and food waste) under mesophilic conditions over a 36 day period. In addition to the three biomass materials (digested separately), 13 biomass mixtures (co-digested) were used. Two approaches for modelling biogas and methane yield during co-digestion, based on volatile solids concentration and ultimate gas and methane potentials, were evaluated. The dependency of apparent synergetic effects on digestion time and biomass mixture composition was further assessed using measured cumulative biogas and methane yields and specific biogas and methane generation rates. Results indicated that it is possible, based on known volatile solids concentration and ultimate biogas or methane yields for a set of biomass materials digested separately, to accurately estimate gas yields for biomass mixtures made from these materials using calibrated models. For the biomass materials considered here, modelling indicated that the addition of pig manure is the main cause of synergetic effects. Co-digestion generally resulted in improved ultimate biogas and methane yields compared to separate digestion. Biogas and methane production was furthermore significantly higher early (0–7 days) and to some degree also late (above 20 days) in the digestion process during co-digestion.
In vivo study of an extended release bupivacaine formulation following site-directed nerve injection
Authors: Golovanevski Ludmila , Ickowicz Diana , Sokolsky-Papkov Marina , Domb Abraham , Weiniger Carolyn F
Published: December 2014

Site-directed administration of local anesthetic agents incorporated into a slow controlled-release injectable implant prolongs the analgesic effect. However, there are potential neuro- and myotoxic consequences. We evaluated a local anesthetic agent (bupivacaine) loaded into a slow-release biodegradable polymer based on castor oil and poly(lactic acid). The formulation was applied directly to the sciatic nerve area in female imprinting control region mice along with appropriate controls. Local nerve and muscle and systemic toxicity were evaluated over a 3-month period following injection of 0.05, 0.1, and 0.125 mL of the 15% bupivacaine–polymer formulation. Histological samples were prepared and examined; no signs of severe inflammation were observed. Histological inflammation signs were more prominent in both nerves and muscles following application of the largest volumes of the polymer formulation (0.1 and 0.125 mL). Following application of 0.1 mL, 15% bupivacaine–polymer formulation, maximal changes were seen in nerve samples two days and two weeks after injection, with complete resolution one month following injection. Neither blank polymer nor plain bupivacaine 0.5% caused any histological changes. Local nerve and muscle toxicity were affected by duration the of exposure and dose of the local anesthetic agent. However, there were clear indications of time-related healing process 3 months after injection.
Triangulation intersection approach from Poisson’s equation applied to automatic tool selection in computer numerical control mill-lathe
Authors: Mejia-Ugalde M , Dominguez-Gonzalez A , Trejo-Hernandez M , Morales-Hernandez LA , Osornio-Rios RA , Benitez-Rangel JP
Published: December 2014

This article presents a new method for automatic tool selection using discrete techniques based on Poisson’s equations for computer numerical control lathe-mill machine operations and rapid tooling. This method proposes to generate linear triangulation in the boundary of the piece and tool, after creating moves of tool around the piece to detect intersection; thus, this creates directional field through mesh allowing selecting the type of tool in agreement with the size, magnitude and direction of tool. The proposed methodology has been implemented in computer-aided manufacturing software, in different types for two-dimensional, two and a half–dimensional and three-dimensional pieces computer-aided design, showing the correct selection of the cutting tools. The novelty of this article is the use of discrete technique applying Poisson’s equation; the piece thus checks the intersection between the piece and tool when the tool is moving.
Pulsating characteristic of the hydraulic hybrid vehicle system with pipeline effect
Authors: Chen Yan-li , Liu Shun-an , Jiang Ji-hai , Shang Tao , Zhang Yuan-kun , Sui Hang
Published: December 2014

The configuration and working principle of hydraulic hybrid vehicle (HHV) based on the hydraulic transformer (HT) were described to extend its energy-regenerated potential. The approximate algorithm of basic elements for pipeline distributed parameter model was summarized to simplify the pipeline model calculation, and the various basic elements of this method were proven to be used in the practical application by comparison with the experimentally validated Zhao and Hullender model. The pressure pulsation characteristics between the HT and accumulator of the HHV by considering Zhao model, Hullender model, and original pipeline approximate model was analyzed to optimize the system structure design by the method of the mathematical model, which mainly includes the series accumulator and parallel accumulator, respectively. The simulation result shows that the series accumulator was better than the parallel accumulator in terms of pulsation damping of hydraulic transformer with considering the pipeline effect. The test-rig result shows that the theoretical analysis of the pulsation between the HT and accumulator with pipeline was very close to the measurement data of the experiment in the curve trend, where the theoretical analysis results of pulsation characteristic for HHV were appropriate and reasonable.
Investigation of bilateral control for hydraulic Stewart master–slave system
Authors: Jingwei Hou , Dingxuan Zhao
Published: December 2014

A master–slave system consisting of a hydraulic Stewart mechanism is developed. This system can be used for grinding complex curved surfaces while keeping the operator away from the harmful dust produced. To solve the feedback force impact problem when the slave platform makes contact with a rigid object, a motion tracking controller with a strategy-switch algorithm is designed for the master site. For the slave platform, an H∞ controller with antiwindup synthesize is first designed. The H∞ controller ensures position accuracy during motion. The antiwindup controller ensures the stability of the hydraulic cylinder when the load force limitations are reached, which may cause the upper platform to move to uncertain direction and the function of the manipulator changes worse rapidly. Those are achieved using a new work-space-based bilateral servo control framework by which the machining precision requirement can be decreased compared to that in the leg-space-based framework. Simulations and experiments are performed to verify the performance of these algorithms.
Elliptic jet control with cross-wire
Authors: Chauhan Vinay , Kumar SM Aravindh , Rathakrishnan Ethirajan
Published: December 2014

The effect of cross-wire on the aerodynamic mixing of circular and elliptic sonic jet flow fields is studied experimentally in the presence of favourable pressure gradient at the orifice exit. The cross-wire is found to reduce the amplitude of pitot pressure oscillation drastically, and thus weakens the shock cell structure in the jet core. In the case of elliptic jets, the effectiveness of cross-wire is found to be dependent on its location at the orifice exit. For lower aspect ratio jets (AR 2), cross-wire along the major axis proves to be more effective in enhancing mixing, but as the aspect ratio increases to higher values (AR 6), cross-wire along the minor axis becomes more effective in promoting the jet mixing. The pressure profile results indicate that the cross-wire located on the major axis advances the axis-switching phenomenon, while the cross-wire along the minor axis shifts the axis-switching location further downstream compared to uncontrolled jet. The jet bifurcation caused by the cross-wire has been captured in the shadowgraph pictures.
Saving-Enhanced Memory
Authors: Storm Benjamin C. , Stone Sean M.
Published: December 2014

With the continued integration of technology into people’s lives, saving digital information has become an everyday facet of human behavior. In the present research, we examined the consequences of saving certain information on the ability to learn and remember other information. Results from three experiments showed that saving one file before studying a new file significantly improved memory for the contents of the new file. Notably, this effect was not observed when the saving process was deemed unreliable or when the contents of the to-be-saved file were not substantial enough to interfere with memory for the new file. These results suggest that saving provides a means to strategically off-load memory onto the environment in order to reduce the extent to which currently unneeded to-be-remembered information interferes with the learning and remembering of other information.
Mid- to late-Holocene East Asian summer monsoon variability recorded in lacustrine sediments from Jingpo Lake, Northeastern China
Authors: Chen Rong , Shen Ji , Li Chunhai , Zhang Enlou , Sun Weiwei , Ji Ming
Published: December 2014

The Northeastern China involves complex interactions between the East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) circulation and the polar climate system, and plays a significant role as the bridge communicating low- and high-latitude climatic processes. High-resolution multi-proxy analysis of a robust accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) 14C dated lacustrine sediment core recovered from Jingpo Lake in Northeastern China provides a detailed history of EASM variability and vegetation changes since ~5100 cal. yr BP. The period from ~5100 to 3600 cal. yr BP was characterized by the highest pollen percentages of Quercus, Ulmus, Juglans and Corylopsis; low Md (median grain size diameter); and high δ13Corg values, reflecting a relatively warm and humid period. The period between ~3600 and 2100 cal. yr BP is characterized by high Md and low δ13Corg values, and a rapid increase in pollen percentages of herbs, indicating cool and dry climatic conditions. From ~2100 to 150 cal. yr BP, a gradual increase in δ13Corg values and low Md values, and a rapid increase in Carpinus, Juglans and Corylopsis pollen percentages was observed, indicating climate change towards warmer and wetter conditions. After ~150 cal. yr BP, the highest values of total organic carbon mass accumulation rate (TOC-MAR), total nitrogen mass accumulation rate (TN-MAR) and magnetic susceptibility suggesting that the Jingpo Lake region has been severely affected by human activities. The EASM variability in Northeastern China during the mid- to late Holocene shows trends similar to EASM records in China. Furthermore, our findings indicate that the variability of the EASM during the mid- to late Holocene on the multi-decadal to centennial scale was forced by changes in both solar output and oceanic–atmospheric circulation interaction.
Vegetation, climate and environmental history of the last 4500 years at lake Shkodra (Albania/Montenegro)
Authors: Sadori Laura , Giardini Marco , Gliozzi Elsa , Mazzini Ilaria , Sulpizio Roberto , van Welden Aurelien , Zanchetta Giovanni
Published: December 2014

Three parallel overlapping cores have been taken in the Albanian side of Lake Shkodra (Albania/Montenegro). The chronological frame of the record, spanning approximately the last 4500 years, has been assessed using four radiocarbon dates and four well-known tephra layers of Italian volcanoes. Multidisciplinary analyses turned out to be decisive to understand environmental, climatic changes and human impact. Here, we focus on palynology. The humidity at Shkodra was always enough to allow the developing of a luxuriant arboreal vegetation. The pollen percentage diagram does not record important changes in terrestrial plants percentages. Arboreal pollen (AP) shows only a rather slight decrease, with ‘natural forests’ replaced by intensive cultivation of chestnut and walnut in the last seven/eight centuries. The rather minimal changes in composition and dominance are because of the fact that the pollen rain comes from different vegetation belts, from the Mediterranean to the alpine one. Two major periods of humidity are found, one at the base of the pollen concentration and influx diagram, before 4100 yr BP, the other at 1300 yr BP. Minima in pollen influx and concentration occurred soon before 4000, at ca. 2900 and at ca. 1450 yr BP These minima, interpreted as aridity crises, show a temporal coincidence with the so-called Bond events 1-3 already found in other central and eastern Mediterranean records. The minimum in AP occurring after 500 yr BP could represent the record of the ‘Little Ice Age’, even if it could be the effect of a strong land use.
Enactivism, action and normativity: a Wittgensteinian analysis
Authors: Heras-Escribano Manuel , Noble Jason , de Pinedo Manuel
Published: December 2014

In this paper, we offer a criticism, inspired by Wittgenstein’s rule-following considerations, of the enactivist account of perception and action. We start by setting up a non-descriptivist naturalism regarding the mind and continue by defining enactivism and exploring its more attractive theoretical features. We then proceed to analyse its proposal to understand normativity non-socially. We argue that such a thesis is ultimately committed to the problematic idea that normative practices can be understood as private and factual. Finally, we offer a characterization of normativity as an essentially social phenomenon and apply our criticisms to other approaches that share commitments with enactivism.
The Power of Relationships
Authors: Aston Megan , Price Sheri , Etowa Josephine , Vukic Adele , Young Linda , Hart Christine , MacLeod Emily , Randel Patricia
Published: December 2014

Postpartum home visiting by Public Health Nurses (PHNs) has been used by many health departments across Canada as a way of supporting new mothers and their families. Although positive health outcomes are linked with support from PHNs, little is known about how this occurs during the home visit. The purpose of this research was to explore how home visiting programs for mothers and babies were organized, delivered, and experienced through the everyday practices of PHNs, mothers, and managers in Nova Scotia, Canada. Feminist poststructuralism was used to guide the research and semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted with 16 PHNs, 16 mothers, and 4 managers. Participants described how relationships were an essential part of supporting mothers and families. These findings also challenge dominant health discourses and stereotypes that are often associated with mothering and the practice of PHNs with families.
Optimal vibration control of beams subjected to a mass moving at constant speed
Authors: Stancioiu Dan , Ouyang Huajiang
Published: December 2014

This paper studies the optimal control of vibration of a beam excited by a moving mass. One important background of this work is vehicle-bridge interaction. As this is a time-varying system, some methods suitable for time-invariant systems are not always effective and will lead to suboptimal solutions when applied. In this particular vibration problem, the terminal time instant when the moving mass leaves the beam and the moving mass as the source of excitation are known. This particularity allows this problem to be expressed in a very simple way as a fixed terminal-time optimal control problem. In this paper the limitations of the practical implementation of the control solution are discussed in relation to different performance indices and actuation strategies. Numerical results obtained by using several control methods (time-invariant, time-variant with or without bounds on the control force) are analyzed and compared. It is shown that for particular actuator locations the use of time-varying control strategy instead of a time invariant strategy is necessary. The approach of formulating the system equation in an augmented form put forward in this paper is shown to yield accurate results at lower cost than the conventional time-dependent Riccati equation method. This approach is expected to be applicable to optimal control of vibration of other more complicated time-variant systems.