bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analytical and Clinical Comparison of Two Fully Automated Immunoassay Systems for the Diagnosis of Celiac Disease
Authors: Lakos Gabriella , Norman Gary L. , Mahler Michael , Martis Peter , Bentow Chelsea , Santora Debby , Fasano Alessio
Published: March 2014

Objective.Here we compared analytical and clinical performance characteristics of two novel automated assay systems for the detection of celiac disease (CD) specific antibodies: QUANTA Flash (INOVA Diagnostics, Inc.) and EliA (Thermo Scientific).Methods.A total of 74 biopsy-proven CD patients (2 with IgA deficiency) and 138 controls were tested by both methods.Results.Sensitivities of QUANTA Flash assays ranged from 35.1% to 90.5% and specificities from 96.4% to 99.3%, while sensitivities for EliA assays ranged from 37.8% to 90.5% (equivocal considered positive) and specificities from 97.1% to 100.0%. Good qualitative agreement was found between all assays. Thirty-four (50.0%) of the 68 QUANTA Flash h-tTG IgA positive results were higher than 10 times the upper limit of normal (ULN). In contrast, only 22.8% of the EliA tTG IgA positive samples were >10x ULN. Seventy-three (98.6%) biopsy-proven CD patients were correctly identified with the QUANTA Flash h-tTG IgA+DGP IgG combination, while 64 (86.5%) and 72 (97.3%) (depending on equivocal range) were identified with the same combination of EliA assays.Conclusion.The QUANTA Flash CD assays have outstanding clinical performance. Of particular clinical significance, in light of proposals to decrease the absolute necessity of biopsy, was the demonstration that 50% of the QUANTA Flash h-tTG IgA results were >10x ULN.
Identifying Gastric Cancer Related Genes Using the Shortest Path Algorithm and Protein-Protein Interaction Network
Authors: Jiang Yang , Shu Yang , Shi Ying , Li Li-Peng , Yuan Fei , Ren Hui
Published: March 2014

Gastric cancer, as one of the leading causes of cancer related deaths worldwide, causes about 800,000 deaths per year. Up to now, the mechanism underlying this disease is still not totally uncovered. Identification of related genes of this disease is an important step which can help to understand the mechanism underlying this disease, thereby designing effective treatments. In this study, some novel gastric cancer related genes were discovered based on the knowledge of known gastric cancer related ones. These genes were searched by applying the shortest path algorithm in protein-protein interaction network. The analysis results suggest that some of them are indeed involved in the biological process of gastric cancer, which indicates that they are the actual gastric cancer related genes with high probability. It is hopeful that the findings in this study may help promote the study of this disease and the methods can provide new insights to study various diseases.
Study Assessing the Quality of Quantification of Estrogen Receptor Protein Expression by Immunohistochemistry and Gene Expression in Breast Cancer
Authors: Leen Sas , Steven Van Laere , Marie Dierick Anne , Valérie Duwel , Annemie De Pauw , Gert Van Den Eynden , Peter Van Dam , Luc Dirix , Peter Vermeulen , Filip Lardon
Published: March 2014

Although immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a widely used technique to classify tumors in ER-positive versus ER-negative ones, interlab variabilities can occur. This study aims to investigate the influences of preanalytical and analytical factors on IHC results. For this purpose, the different steps of the preparation of IHC sections and scoring procedures were compared between two participating laboratories and a central lab. There was a significant positive correlation between the IHC results of the participating laboratories and those of the central lab (correlation coefficient > 0.600; P<0.05). Nevertheless, some discordant cases for immunostaining (5.3% for ER and 5.6% for PR) and for scoring (10.5% for PR) occur at site 1. Comparing IHC results with ESR1 gene expression results revealed a significant positive correlation (correlation coefficients > 0.769; P<0.05). PCR results of ER target genes showed some heterogeneity in the ER-signalling pathway. These results suggest that differences in the IHC procedure between these laboratories did not have a big influence on the end result. Nevertheless, discordant cases caused by preanalytical and analytical lab-specific procedures have been identified.
Implementation of a Three-Dimensional Pedometer Automatic Accumulating Walking or Jogging Motions in Arbitrary Placement
Authors: Sheu Jia-Shing , Jheng Wei-Cian , Hsiao Chih-Hung
Published: March 2014

This study proposes a method for using a three-axis accelerometer and a single-chip microcontrol unit to implement a three-dimensional (3D) pedometer that can automatically identify walking and running motions. The proposed design can calculate the number of walking and running steps down to small numbers of steps and can be easily worn, thus remedying defects of generic mechanical and 3D pedometers. The user’s motion state is calculated using a walk/run mode switching algorithm.
Hepatitis B Vaccination and Screening Awareness in Primary Care Practitioners
Authors: Said Adnan , Jou Janice H.
Published: March 2014

Introduction.The goals ofHealthy People US2020 have called for increased screening and vaccination of high-risk groups for Hepatitis B (HBV).Methods.We performed a survey of 400 randomly chosen primary care practitioners (PCPs) in Wisconsin to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding screening and vaccination for HBV.Results.Screening rates of patients at risk of sexual transmission were low, with 61% of respondents stating that they screen patients who had more than 1 sex partner in 6 months and 86% screening patients with a history of sex with prostitutes. Screening rate for persons with a history of intravenous drug use was 94%. Children of immigrants were screened by 65%, persons on hemodialysis by 73%, and prison inmates by 69%. Screening increased with provider experience with HBV. Deficiencies in vaccination rates mirrored screening practices. Major barriers to screening were cost, someone else’s responsibility, time constraints, or lack of knowledge.Conclusions.Without improved education and practices of PCPs about HBV screening and vaccination, the goals of healthy people 2020 regarding HBV will not be met. Barriers to screening and vaccination need to be addressed. Cost-effectiveness of alternative strategies such as universal vaccination under the age of 50 should be explored.
On the Dynamics of an Oil Price Model
Authors: Lara Teodoro
Published: March 2014

We address the dynamic of an energy price model in a more general approach; to our knowledge, in previous works, different conditions are imposed on the energy price function at a particular value in order to characterize stability and unstability for real or complex eigenvalues. Nonexistence of periodic orbits is shown by means of Dulac’s criterion; we also exhibit some pictures of solutions. Finally we modify this model and apply it to some particular cases in Venezuela economy.
Sign-Changing Solutions for Nonlinear Operator Equations
Authors: Sang Yanbin
Published: March 2014

The existence of six solutions for nonlinear operator equations is obtained by using the topological degree and fixed point index theory. These six solutions are all nonzero. Two of them are positive, the other two are negative, and the fifth and sixth ones are both sign-changing solutions. Furthermore, the theoretical results are applied to elliptic partial differential equations.
Localization Algorithms in Large-Scale Underwater Acoustic Sensor Networks: A Quantitative Comparison
Authors: Han Guangjie , Qian Aihua , Zhang Chenyu , Wang Yan , Rodrigues Joel J. P. C.
Published: March 2014

Recently underwater acoustic sensor networks (UASNs) have drawn much attention because of their great value in many underwater applications where human operation is hard to carry out. In this paper, we introduce and compare the performance of four localization algorithms in UASNs, namely, distance vector-hop (DV-hop), a new localization algorithm for underwater acoustic sensor networks (NLA), large-scale hierarchical localization (LSHL), and localization scheme for large scale underwater networks (LSLS). The four algorithms are all suitable for large-scale UASNs. We compare the localization algorithms in terms of localization coverage, localization error, and average energy consumption. Besides, we analyze the impacts of the ranging error and the number of anchor nodes on the performance of the localization algorithms. Simulations show that LSHL and LSLS perform much better than DV-hop and NLA in localization coverage, localization error, and average energy consumption. The performance of NLA is similar to that of the DV-hop. The advantage of DV-hop and NLA is that the localization results do not rely on the number of anchor nodes; that is, only a small number of anchor nodes are needed for localization.
Properties of Solutions to Stochastic Set Differential Equations under Non-Lipschitzian Coefficients
Authors: Fei Weiyin , Li Yunhe , Fei Chen
Published: March 2014

A class of stochastic set differential equations (SSDEs) with non-Lipschitzian coefficients is investigated. We first give the preliminaries on the stochastic set differential equations. Then the nonexplosion of solutions to the SSDEs is discussed. Moreover, the existence and uniqueness of the solutions to SSDEs are proven. Finally, the continuous dependence of the solutions to SSDEs is studied.
Broadcast Aggregation to Improve Quality of Service in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Troubleyn Evy , Hoebeke Jeroen , Moerman Ingrid , Demeester Piet
Published: March 2014

In-network aggregation is used in wireless sensor networks to reduce energy consumption on sensor nodes with limited capabilities. Typically, only packets with the same destination are aggregated along the routing path and these packets are sent by unicast. While this is adequate for traditional multipoint-to-point sensor network applications, this is not suitable when wireless sensor nodes are connected in a full mesh topology, as isthe case in the Internet of Things. In these full mesh topologies, queues will be filled with packets with many different destinations, which limits the aggregation possibilities. Furthermore, the Quality of Service level will decrease since packets have to wait longer to find aggregation candidates. Therefore, in this paper, we propose to use broadcast aggregation that can aggregate packets independent of their destination. Broadcast aggregation is analyzed through simulations against unicast aggregation and no aggregation. Results show that energy can be reduced up to 13% compared with unicast aggregation and up to 27% compared with no aggregation. In terms of reliability, the Quality of Service is improved up to 15% compared with unicast aggregation and up to 23% compared with no aggregation. The delay on its turnis decreased by 52% compared with unicast aggregation.
Job Burnout, Mood State, and Cardiovascular Variable Changes of Doctors and Nurses in a Children’s Hospital in China
Authors: He Shuchang , Chen Yan , Zhan Junya , Wu Johnna , Opler Mark
Published: March 2014

Aims. This study examines mood and cardiovascular variables related to job stress and burnout in hospital personnel. Main Methods. 400 nurses and physicians from a children’s hospital in China were recruited. Participants completed job stress, burnout, and mood state questionnaires. Cardiovascular variables such as body mass index (BMI), triglyceride (TG), and high density lipoprotein (HDL) were measured. Key Findings. Job stress and burnout were significantly associated with mood state. Statistically significant correlations were found between triglyceride levels and job stress scores (r=0.175, P<0.01), BMI and job stress scores (r=0.121, P<0.05), and HDL levels and job stress scores (r=-0.117, P<0.05). Significance. Mood state changes may be related to job stress and job burnout, in turn, associated with triglycerides and HDL levels. Public health implications and interventions are discussed.
A New Ratio for Protocol Categorization
Authors: Squara Pierre
Published: March 2014

The present review describes and validates a new ratio “S” created for matching predictability and balance between TP and TN. Validity ofSwas studied in a three-step process as follows: (i)Swas applied to the data of a past study predicting cardiac output response to fluid bolus from response to passive leg raise (PLR); (ii)Swas comparatively analyzed with traditional ratios by modeling different 2 * 2 contingency tables in 1000 hypothetical patients; (iii) precision ofSwas compared with other ratios by computing random fluctuations in the same patients. In comparison to other ratios,Sperforms better in predicting the cardiac response to fluid bolus and supports more directly the clinical conclusions. When the proportion of false responses is high,Sis close to the coefficient correlation (CC). When the proportion of true responses is high,Sis the unique ratio that identifies the categorization that balances the proportion of TP and TN. The precision ofSis close to that of CC. In conclusion,Sshould be considered for creating categories from quantitative variables; especially when matching predictability with balance between TP and TN is a concern.
Optical Evaluation on Delamination Buckling of Composite Laminate with Impact Damage
Authors: Ruan J. T. , Aymerich F. , Tong J. W. , Wang Z. Y.
Published: March 2014

The delamination buckling and growth behaviors of a cross-ply composite laminate with damage induced by low velocity impact are investigated optically using three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC) method. For the 3D deformation measurement, the 3D-DIC setup comprised of two CCD cameras was adopted. The rectangle specimen was impacted under the impact energy of 7.0 J using a drop-weight testing machine, and the impact damage was detected by means of X-ray nondestructive evaluation (NDE) technique. The 3D deformation field measured with the optical system clearly reveals that the delamination buckling characteristic of the specimen mainly appears local deformation mode under compression after impact test. Moreover, the behavior of delamination growth evaluated by the 3D-DIC optical method reasonably agrees with the NDE observed damage result after compression.
Vascular Plug-Assisted Retrograde Transvenous Obliteration of Portosystemic Shunts for Refractory Hepatic Encephalopathy: A Case Report
Authors: Park Jonathan K. , Cho Sung-Ki , Kee Stephen , Lee Edward W.
Published: March 2014

While balloon-assisted retrograde transvenous obliteration (BRTO) has been used for two decades in Asia for the management of gastric variceal bleeding, it is still an emerging therapy elsewhere. Given the shunt closure brought about by the procedure, BRTO has also been used for the management of portosystemic encephalopathy with promising results. Modified versions of BRTO have been developed, including plug-assisted retrograde transvenous obliteration (PARTO), where a vascular plug is deployed within a portosystemic shunt. To our knowledge, we present the first North American case of PARTO in the setting of a large splenorenal shunt for the management of portosystemic encephalopathy.
Effect of Polymer Adsorption on Permeability Reduction in Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: Mishra Saurabh , Bera Achinta , Mandal Ajay
Published: March 2014

In order to reduce the permeability to water or brine, there is a possibility of polymer injection into the reservoir. In the present work, special focus has been paid in polymer [partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (PHPA)] injection as a part of chemical method. Tests were conducted in the laboratory at the ambient temperature to examine the reduction in permeability to water or brine in the well-prepared sand packed after the polymer injection. The experiments were performed to study the effect of polymer adsorption on permeability reduction by analyzing residual resistance factor values with different concentrations of polymer solutions. The rheological behavior of the polymer has also been examined. The experimental results also indicate that the adsorption behavior of polymer is strongly affected by salinity, solution pH, and polymer concentration. To investigate the effect of polymer adsorption and mobility control on additional oil recovery, polymer flooding experiments were conducted with different polymer concentrations. It has been obtained that with the increase in polymer concentrations, oil recovery increases.
Diagnostic Performance and Additional Value of Elastosonography in Focal Breast Lesions: Statistical Correlation between Size-Dependant Strain Index Measurements, Multimodality-BI-RADS Score, and Histopathology in a Clinical Routine Setting
Authors: Ebner Lukas , Bonel Harald M. , Huber Adrian , Ross Steffen , Christe Andreas
Published: March 2014

Objective. To evaluate the diagnostic benefit of real-time elastography (RTE) in clinical routine. Strain indices (SI) for benign and malignant tumors were assessed. Methods. 100 patients with 110 focal breast lesions were retrieved. Patients had mammography (MG), ultrasound (US), and, if necessary, MRI. RTE was conducted after ultrasound. Lesions were assessed with BI-RADS for mammography and ultrasound. Diagnosis was established with histology or follow-up. Results. SI for BI-RADS 2 was 1.71±0.86. Higher SI (2.21±1.96) was observed for BI-RADS 3 lesions. SI of BI-RADS 4 and 5 lesions were significantly higher 16.92±20.89 and 19.54±10.41. 31 malignant tumors exhibited an average SI of 16.13±14.67; SI of benign lesions was 5.29±11.87 (P value <0.0001). ROC analysis threshold was >3.8 for malignant disease. Sensitivity of sonography was 90.3% (specificity 78.5%). RTE showed a sensitivity of 87.1% (specificity 79.7%). Accuracy of all modalities combined was 96.8%. In BI-RADS 3 lesions RTE was able to detect all malignant lesions (sensitivity 100%, specificity 92.9%, and accuracy 93.9%). Conclusions. RTE increased sensitivity and specificity for breast cancer detection when used in combination with ultrasound.
Structure-Function Elucidation of Antioxidative and Prooxidative Activities of the Polyphenolic Compound Curcumin
Authors: Malik Parth , Mukherjee Tapan K.
Published: March 2014

Phenolic compounds have been very well known for their antioxidant properties, owing to their unique ability to act as free radical scavengers which, in turn, is an outstanding attribute of their unique biochemical structure. Recent accumulating lines of evidence inculcate sustainable interest and curiosity towards the chemoprotective nature of the natural polyphenolic compound curcumin (diferuloylmethane) against oxidative stress-mediated disorders. Curcumin is naturally found as a constituent of dietary spices called turmeric, extracted from the plant Curcuma longa. However, like every phenolic antioxidant, curcumin possesses a concentration and medium dependent anti- and pro-oxidant behaviour. A detailed study of the structure-function analysis and the understanding of the mode of action of curcumin as well as its chemical analogues is thus essential to understand the selective biochemical consequences of curcumin. Moreover, the presence of transition metal ions, route of administration, and localized tissue are also the vital decisive factors to determine curcumin behaviour. With this viewpoint, this paper sheds lights on the medium dependent prooxidative and antioxidative attributes of curcumin. Further, with respect to emergence of nanocarriers, a brief discussion focusing on the biochemical effect exertion of curcumin chiefly due to targeted and slow release has also been added towards the end.
Sonic Hedgehog Signaling Drives Proliferation of Synoviocytes in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Possible Novel Therapeutic Target
Authors: Wang Mingxia , Zhu Shangling , Peng Weixiang , Li Qiuxia , Li Zhaoxia , Luo Minqi , Feng Xiaoxue , Lin Zhuofeng , Huang Jianlin
Published: March 2014

Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling controls many aspects of human development, regulates cell growth and differentiation in adult tissues, and is activated in a number of malignancies. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by chronic synovitis and pannus formation associated with activation of fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS). We investigated whether Shh signaling plays a role in the proliferation of FLS in RA. Expression of Shh signaling related components (Shh, Ptch1, Smo, and Gli1) in RA synovial tissues was examined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and in FLS by IHC, immunofluorescence (IF), quantitative RT-PCR, and western blotting. Expression of Shh, Smo, and Gli1 in RA synovial tissue was higher than that in control tissue (P<0.05). Cyclopamine (a specific inhibitor of Shh signaling) decreased mRNA expression of Shh, Ptch1, Smo, and Gli1 in cultured RA FLS, Shh, and Smo protein expression, and significantly decreased FLS proliferation. Flow cytometry analysis suggested that cyclopamine treatment resulted in cell cycle arrest of FLS in G1phase. Our data show that Shh signaling is activated in synovium of RA patientsin vivoand in cultured FLS form RA patientsin vitro, suggesting a role in the proliferation of FLS in RA. It may therefore be a novel therapeutic target in RA.
Optimization Analysis Model of Self‐Anchored Suspension Bridge
Authors: Lu Pengzhen , Chen Jianting , Zhong Jingru , Lu Penglong
Published: March 2014

The hangers of self‐anchored suspension bridge need to be tensioned suitably during construction. In view of this point, a simplified optimization calculation method of cable force for self‐anchored suspension bridge has been developed based on optimization theories, such as minimum bending energy method, and internal force balanced method, influence matrix method. Meanwhile, combined with the weak coherence of main cable and the adjacently interaction of hanger forces, a simplified analysis method is developed using MATLAB, which is then compared with the optimization method that consider the main cable′s geometric nonlinearity with software ANSYS in an actual example bridge calculation. This contrast proves the weak coherence of main cable displacement and the limitation of the adjacent cable force influence. Furthermore, a tension program that is of great reference value has been developed; some important conclusions, advices, and attention points have been summarized.
Characterization of West African Jet Streams and Their Association to ENSO Events and Rainfall in ERA-Interim 1979–2011
Authors: Okonkwo Churchill , Demoz Belay , Tesfai Sium
Published: March 2014

The interannual variability of West African jet streams and their association with rainfall are reexamined using European Reanalysis ERA-Interim 1979–2011. The objective of the study is to characterize their climatology and role in rainfall variability in western Sahel. Wavelet analysis was used on wind speed data and implications to ENSO were discussed subsequently. Our results show that while the low-level African Westerly Jet (AWJ) correlates well with rainfall south of the equator in boreal winter months, the Tropical Easterly Jet (TEJ) and African Easterly Jet (AEJ) correlate better with rainfall north of the equator in the boreal summer months. Results of interannual-to-decadal variability in 200 mb, 600 mb, and 850 mb of zonal wind reveal that there is enhanced variability in the 2–8 year band. Also, the TEJ, AEJ, and AWJ fluctuations are coupled with variations in southern oscillation. Further analysis suggests a statistically significant association between TEJ and the El Niño events of the 1980s that led to intense drought in the Sahel region of West Africa. The 2007 moderate La Niña shows a statistically significant coherence with the 500 mb, 600 mb, and 850 mb jets. These associations are also phase locked, suggesting that the association may be more than by chance.
Analysis of Autoantibodies to 3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A Reductase Using Different Technologies
Authors: Musset Lucile , Miyara Makoto , Benveniste Olivier , Charuel Jean-Luc , Shikhman Alexander , Boyer Olivier , Fowler Richard , Mammen Andrew , Phillips Joe , Mahler Michael
Published: March 2014

Diagnostic tests are needed to aid in the diagnosis of necrotizing myopathies associated with statin use. This study aimed to compare different technologies for the detection of anti-HMGCR antibodies and analyze the clinical phenotype and autoantibody profile of the patients. Twenty samples from myositis patients positive for anti-HMGCR antibodies using a research addressable laser bead assay and 20 negative controls were tested for autoantibodies to HMGCR: QUANTA Lite HMGCR ELISA and QUANTA Flash HMGCR CIA. All patients were also tested for antibodies to extractable nuclear antigens and myositis related antibodies. To verify the specificity of the ELISA, 824 controls were tested. All three assays showed qualitative agreements of 100% and levels of anti-HMGCR antibodies showed significant correlation: Spearman’s rho > 0.8. The mean age of the anti-HMGCR antibody positive patients was 54.4 years, 16/20 were females, and 18/20 had necrotizing myopathy (two patients were not diagnosed). Nine out of 20 anti-HMGCR positive patients were on statin. All patients with anti-HMGCR antibodies were negative for all other autoantibodies tested. Testing various controls showed high specificity (99.3%). Anti-HMGCR antibodies are not always associated with the use of statin and appear to be the exclusive autoantibody specificity in patients with statin associated myopathies.
Infection and HLA-G Molecules in Nasal Polyposis
Authors: Rizzo Roberta , Malagutti Nicola , Bortolotti Daria , Gentili Valentina , Rotola Antonella , Fainardi Enrico , Pezzolo Teresa , Aimoni Claudia , Pelucchi Stefano , Di Luca Dario , Pastore Antonio
Published: March 2014

Sinonasal polyposis (SNP) is a chronic inflammatory pathology with an unclear aetiopathogenesis. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is one candidate for the development of SNP for its epithelial cell trophism, hyperproliferative effect, and the induction of immune-modulatory molecules as HLA-G. We enrolled 10 patients with SNP without concomitant allergic diseases (SNP-WoAD), 10 patients with SNP and suffering from allergic diseases (SNP-WAD), and 10 control subjects who underwent rhinoplasty. We analyzed the presence of high- and low-risk HPV DNA and the expression of membrane HLA-G (mHLA-G) and IL-10 receptor (IL-10R) and of soluble HLA-G (sHLA-G) and IL-10 by polyp epithelial cells. The results showed the presence of HPV-11 in 50% of SNP-WoAD patients (OR:5.5), all characterized by a relapsing disease. HPV-11 infection was absent in nonrelapsing SNP-WoAD patients, in SNP-WAD patients and in controls, supporting the hypothesis that HPV-11 increases risk of relapsing disease. HPV-11 positive SNP-WoAD patients presented with mHLA-G and IL-10R on epithelial cells from nasal polyps and showed secretion of sHLA-G and IL-10 in culture supernatants. No HLA-G expression was observed in HPV negative polyps. These data highlight new aspects of polyposis aetiopathogenesis and suggest HPV-11 and HLA-G/IL-10 presence as prognostic markers in the follow-up of SNP-WoAD.
A Multiperiod Equilibrium Pricing Model
Authors: Kwak Minsuk , Pirvu Traian A. , Zhang Huayue
Published: March 2014

We propose an equilibrium pricing model in a dynamic multiperiod stochastic framework with uncertain income. There are one tradable risky asset (stock/commodity), one nontradable underlying (temperature), and also a contingent claim (weather derivative) written on the tradable risky asset and the nontradable underlying in the market. The price of the contingent claim is priced in equilibrium by optimal strategies of representative agent and market clearing condition. The risk preferences are of exponential type with a stochastic coefficient of risk aversion. Both subgame perfect strategy and naive strategy are considered and the corresponding equilibrium prices are derived. From the numerical result we examine how the equilibrium prices vary in response to changes in model parameters and highlight the importance of our equilibrium pricing principle.
Traveling Wave Solution in a Diffusive Predator-Prey System with Holling Type-IV Functional Response
Authors: Yang Deniu , Liu Lihan , Wang Hongyong
Published: March 2014

We establish the existence of traveling wave solution for a reaction-diffusion predator-prey system with Holling type-IV functional response. For simplicity, only one space dimension will be involved, the traveling solution equivalent to the heteroclinic orbits inR3. The methods used to prove the result are the shooting argument and the invariant manifold theory.
A Preliminary Study of the Influence of Age of Onset and Childhood Trauma on Cortical Thickness in Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Jaworska Natalia , MacMaster Frank P. , Gaxiola Ismael , Cortese Filomeno , Goodyear Bradley , Ramasubbu Rajamannar
Published: March 2014

Background. Major depressive disorder (MDD) neural underpinnings may differ based on onset age and childhood trauma. We assessed cortical thickness in patients who differed in age of MDD onset and examined trauma history influence.Methods. Adults with MDD (N=36) and controls (HC;N=18) underwent magnetic resonance imaging. Twenty patients had MDD onset<24 years of age (pediatric onset) and 16 had onset>25 years of age (adult onset). The MDD group was also subdivided into those with (N=12) and without (N=19) physical and/or sexual abuse as assessed by the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ). Cortical thickness was analyzed with FreeSurfer software.Results. Thicker frontal pole and a tendency for thinner transverse temporal cortices existed in MDD. The former was driven by the pediatric onset group and abuse history (independently), particularly in the right frontal pole. Inverse correlations existed between CTQ scores and frontal pole cortex thickness. A similar inverse relation existed with left inferior and right superior parietal cortex thickness. The superior temporal cortex tended to be thinner in pediatric versus adult onset groups with childhood abuse.Conclusions. This preliminary work suggests neural differences between pediatric and adult MDD onset. Trauma history also contributes to cytoarchitectural modulation. Thickened frontal pole cortices as a compensatory mechanism in MDD warrant evaluation.
Acute Toxicity and Determination of the Active Constituents of Aqueous Extract ofUncaria tomentosaBark inHyphessobrycon eques
Authors: Yunis Aguinaga Jefferson , Claudiano Gustavo S. , Marcusso Paulo F. , Ikefuti Cynthia , Ortega George G. , Eto Silas F. , da Cruz Claudinei , Moraes Juliet R. E. , Moraes Flávio R. , Fernandes João B. K.
Published: March 2014

Uncaria tomentosais a medicinal plant used in folk medicine by Amazon tribes. In this study the constituents of aqueous extract ofU. tomentosabark were quantified by chromatographic technique and its lethal concentration 50 (48 h) inHyphessobrycon equeswas determined. The chromatography showed high levels of oxindole alkaloids, quinovic acid glycosides, and low molecular weight polyphenols. The CL50 48 h was 1816 mg/L. Fish showed behavior changes at concentrations above 2000 mg/L, accompanied by a significant decrease of dissolved oxygen. At the highest concentration 100% mortality was observed attributed to oxygen reduction by the amount of oxindole alkaloids, polyphenols accumulation of the extract in the gills, and the interaction of these compounds with dopamine. In conclusion, the aqueous extract ofU. tomentosadid not alter the chemical components and it was shown thatU. tomentosahas low toxicity toH. eques; therefore, it can be used safely in this species.
Multiple Cutaneous Angiosarcomas after Breast Conserving Surgery and Bilateral Adjuvant Radiotherapy: An Unusual Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Meattini Icro , Santi Raffaella , Scartoni Daniele , Giacomelli Irene , De Luca Cardillo Carla , Scotti Vieri , Casella Donato , Simoncini Roberta , Orzalesi Lorenzo , Nori Jacopo , Paglierani Milena , Livi Lorenzo
Published: March 2014

Breast angiosarcomas (BAs) are rare but serious events that may arise after radiation exposure. Disease outcome is poor, with high risk of local and distant failure. Recurrences are frequent also after resection with negative margins. The spectrum of vascular proliferations associated with radiotherapy in the setting of breast cancer has expanded, including radiation-associated atypical vascular lesions (AVLs) of the breast skin as a rare, but well-recognized, entity. Although pursuing a benign behavior, AVLs have been regarded as possible precursors of postradiation BAs. We report an unusual case of a 71-year-old woman affected by well-differentiated bilateral cutaneous BA, diagnosed 1.9 years after adjuvant RT for synchronous bilateral breast cancer. Whole-life clinical followup is of crucial importance in breast cancer patients.
Genotype-Related Effect of Crowding Stress on Blood Pressure and Vascular Function in Young Female Rats
Authors: Slezak Peter , Puzserova Angelika , Balis Peter , Sestakova Natalia , Majzunova Miroslava , Dovinova Ima , Kluknavsky Michal , Bernatova Iveta
Published: March 2014

This study investigated the influence of chronic crowding stress on nitric oxide (NO) production, vascular function and oxidative status in young Wistar-Kyoto (WKY), borderline hypertensive (BHR) and spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) female rats. Five-week old rats were exposed to crowding for two weeks. Crowding elevated plasma corticosterone(P<0.05)and accelerated BP (P<0.01versus basal) only in BHR. NO production and superoxide concentration were significantly higher in the aortas of control BHR and SHR versus WKY. Total acetylcholine (ACh)-induced relaxation in the femoral artery was reduced in control SHR versus WKY and BHR, and stress did not affect it significantly in any genotype. The attenuation of ACh-induced relaxation in SHR versus WKY was associated with reduction of its NO-independent component. Crowding elevated NO production in all strains investigated but superoxide concentration was increased only in WKY, which resulted in reduced NO-dependent relaxation in WKY. In crowded BHR and SHR, superoxide concentration was either unchanged or reduced, respectively, but NO-dependent relaxation was unchanged in both BHR and SHR versus their respective control group. This study points to genotype-related differences in stress vulnerability in young female rats. The most pronounced negative influence of stress was observed in BHR despite preserved endothelial function.
Pleasant/Unpleasant Filtering for Affective Image Retrieval Based on Cross-Correlation of EEG Features
Authors: Xielifuguli Keranmu , Fujisawa Akira , Kusumoto Yusuke , Matsumoto Kazuyuki , Kita Kenji
Published: March 2014

People often make decisions based on sensitivity rather than rationality. In the field of biological information processing, methods are available for analyzing biological information directly based on electroencephalogram: EEG to determine the pleasant/unpleasant reactions of users. In this study, we propose a sensitivity filtering technique for discriminating preferences (pleasant/unpleasant) for images using a sensitivity image filtering system based on EEG. Using a set of images retrieved by similarity retrieval, we perform the sensitivity-based pleasant/unpleasant classification of images based on the affective features extracted from images with the maximum entropy method: MEM. In the present study, the affective features comprised cross-correlation features obtained from EEGs produced when an individual observed an image. However, it is difficult to measure the EEG when a subject visualizes an unknown image. Thus, we propose a solution where a linear regression method based on canonical correlation is used to estimate the cross-correlation features from image features. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the validity of sensitivity filtering compared with image similarity retrieval methods based on image features. We found that sensitivity filtering using color correlograms was suitable for the classification of preferred images, while sensitivity filtering using local binary patterns was suitable for the classification of unpleasant images. Moreover, sensitivity filtering using local binary patterns for unpleasant images had a 90% success rate. Thus, we conclude that the proposed method is efficient for filtering unpleasant images.
In VitroSustained Release Study of Gallic Acid Coated with Magnetite-PEG and Magnetite-PVA for Drug Delivery System
Authors: Dorniani Dena , Kura Aminu Umar , Hussein-Al-Ali Samer Hasan , Bin Hussein Mohd Zobir , Fakurazi Sharida , Shaari Abdul Halim , Ahmad Zalinah
Published: March 2014

The efficacy of two nanocarriers polyethylene glycol and polyvinyl alcohol magnetic nanoparticles coated with gallic acid (GA) was accomplished via X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, magnetic measurements, thermal analysis, and TEM. X-ray diffraction and TEM results showed that Fe3O4nanoparticles were pure iron oxide having spherical shape with the average diameter of 9 nm, compared with 31 nm and 35 nm after coating with polyethylene glycol-GA (FPEGG) and polyvinyl alcohol-GA (FPVAG), respectively. Thermogravimetric analyses proved that after coating the thermal stability was markedly enhanced. Magnetic measurements and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) revealed that superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles could be successfully coated with two polymers (PEG and PVA) and gallic acid as an active drug. Release behavior of gallic acid from two nanocomposites showed that FPEGG and FPVAG nanocomposites were found to be sustained and governed by pseudo-second-order kinetics. Anticancer activity of the two nanocomposites shows that the FPEGG demonstrated higher anticancer effect on the breast cancer cell lines in almost all concentrations tested compared to FPVAG.
Fuzzy Neural Network‐Based Damage Assessment of Bridge under Temperature Effect
Authors: Jiao Yubo , Liu Hanbing , Cheng Yongchun , Wang Xianqiang , Gong Yafeng , Song Gang
Published: March 2014

Vibration‐based method has been widely applied for damage identification of bridge. Natural frequency, mode shape, and their derivatives are sensitive parameters to damage. However, these parameters can be affected not only by the health of structure, but also by the changing temperature. It is essential to eliminate the influence of temperature in practice. Therefore, a fuzzy neural network‐based damage assessment method is proposed in this paper. Uniform load surface curvature is used as damage indicator. Elasticity modulus of concrete is assumed to be temperature dependent in the numerical simulation of bridge model. Through selecting temperature and uniform load surface curvature as input variables of fuzzy neural network, the algorithm can distinguish the damage from temperature effect. Comparative analysis between fuzzy neural network and BP network illustrates the superiority of the proposed method.
Lung Volume Reduction Surgery for Emphysema Treatment: State-of-the-Art and Perspectives
Authors: Pompeo Eugenio
Published: March 2014

Lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) has shown an improve for up to several years respiratory function, exercise capacity, and quality of life in selected patients with severe emphysema and low exercise capacity, particularly if upper-lobe predominance of disease is radiologically recognized. However, mortality and morbidity rates of LVRS have been not negligible leading to raising question as to the cost-effectiveness of the procedure and resulting in a progressive decline in its use although a considerable number of patients meet selection criteria and could potentially benefit of this treatment modality. In recent years, an active investigation aimed at developing less invasive strategies that might allow us to achieve long-term results as satisfactory as those of the standard LVRS method but with fewer adverse effects has been undertaken. So far, novel options including nonresectional surgical and endoscopic LVRS methods hold promise but results from large studies with long follow-up are awaited to help define the most effective interventional treatment options for patients with severe emphysema. In this literature review an analysis of the main issues related to LVRS including selection criteria, mechanisms of action, results of currently available surgical and endoscopic methods, and some potential future perspectives is provided.
Regulating a Firm under Adverse Selection and Moral Hazard in Uncertain Environment
Authors: Feng Jing , Lan Yanfei , Zhao Ruiqing
Published: March 2014

This paper investigates a problem of how to regulate a firm which has private information about the market capacity, leading to adverse selection, and which can increase the market demand by exerting costly effort, resulting in moral hazard. In such a setting, the regulator offers a regulatory policy to the firm with the objective of maximizing a weighted sum of the consumer surplus and the firm’s profit (i.e., the social total surplus). We firstly find that the regulator will set the firm’s effort level as zero under observable effort regardless of the market capacity being full or private information; that is, the effort has no impact on the optimal regulatory policy. Interestingly, we also show that, it is necessary for regulator to consider the difference between the effort’s impact on the demand and the price’s impact on the demand, which may generate different distortion effects about the regulatory policy.
Edge Detector Design Based on LS‐SVR
Authors: Yu Zhongdang , Karimi Hamid Reza
Published: March 2014

For locating inaccurate problem of the discrete localization criterion proposed by Demigny, a new criterion expression of “good localization” is proposed. Firstly, a discrete expression of good detection and good localization criterion of two dimension edge detection operator is employed, and then an experiment to measure optimal parameters of two dimension Canny′s edge detection operator is introduced after. Moreover, a detailed performance comparison and analysis of two dimension optimal filter obtained via utilizing tensor product for one dimension optimal filter are provided which can prove that least square support vector regression (LS‐SVR) is a smoothness filter and give the construct method of the derivate operator. This paper uses LS‐SVR as the object function constructor and then realizes the approximation of two dimension optimal edge detection operator. This paper proposes the utility method of using singleness operator to realize multiscale edge detection by referencing the multiscale analysis technology of the wavelets theory. Experiment shows that the method has utility and efficiency.
Public Awareness of Colorectal Cancer Screening: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Interventions for Increasing Screening Uptake
Authors: Gimeno Garcia Antonio Z. , Hernandez Alvarez Buylla Noemi , Nicolas-Perez David , Quintero Enrique
Published: March 2014

Colorectal cancer ranks as one of the most incidental and death malignancies worldwide. Colorectal cancer screening has proven its benefit in terms of incidence and mortality reduction in randomized controlled trials. In fact, it has been recommended by medical organizations either in average-risk or family-risk populations. Success of a screening campaign highly depends on how compliant the target population is. Several factors influence colorectal cancer screening uptake including sociodemographics, provider and healthcare system factors, and psychosocial factors. Awareness of the target population of colorectal cancer and screening is crucial in order to increase screening participation rates. Knowledge about this disease and its prevention has been used across studies as a measurement of public awareness. Some studies found a positive relationship between knowledge about colorectal cancer, risk perception, and attitudes (perceived benefits and barriers against screening) and willingness to participate in a colorectal cancer screening campaign. The mentioned factors are modifiable and therefore susceptible of intervention. In fact, interventional studies focused on average-risk population have tried to increase colorectal cancer screening uptake by improving public knowledge and modifying attitudes. In the present paper, we reviewed the factors impacting adherence to colorectal cancer screening and interventions targeting participants for increasing screening uptake.
Dislocability of Localization Devices for Nonpalpable Breast Lesions: Experimental Results
Authors: Kaul David , Fallenberg Eva , Diekmann Felix , Budach Volker , Maurer Martin
Published: March 2014

Purpose. For accurate resection of nonpalpable malignant breast lesions with a tumor-free resection rim, an exact and stable wire localization is essential. We tested the resistance towards traction force of different localization devices used in our clinic for breast lesions in two types of tissue.Materials and Methods. Eight different commercially available hook-wire devices were examined for resistance towards traction force using an analogue spring scale.Results. Most systems showed a high level of movement already under small traction force. Retractable systems with round hooks such as the Bard DuaLok , the Fil d’Ariane, and the RPLN Breast Localization Device withstood less traction force than the other systems. However, the Bard DuaLok system was very resistant towards a small traction force of 50 g when compared to the other systems. The Ultrawire Breast Localization Device withstood the most traction force in softer tissue and Kopans Breast Lesion Localization Needle withstood the most force in harder tissue.Conclusion. The Ultrawire Breast Localization Device and Kopans Breast Lesion Localization Needle withstood the most traction force. In general retractable systems withstand less traction force than nonretractable systems.
Node Placement Analysis for Overlay Networks in IoT Applications
Authors: Wan Yuxin , Cao Junwei , He Kang , Zhang Huaying , Yu Peng , Yao Senjing , Li Keqin
Published: March 2014

The Internet of Things (IoT), which combines identification, sensing, computing, and communication technologies, is considered one of the major trends in information and communication technologies. Communication performance is critical for IoT applications. According to previous research, an internet-based overlay model is feasible for the implementation of the IoT. One important issue in the overlay routing model is the overlay node placement problem (ONPP). Once the size of overlay node set is fixed to a particular number k, the ONPP changes to k-ONPP. In this work, the IoT-based overlay node placement problem is formulized and analyzed. The major contributions of the paper include providing the time complexity of multi hop k-ONPP and its theoretical limit boundary of approximation ratio and proposing a local search algorithm. Furthermore, the time complexity and approximation ratio boundary of the local search algorithm are given. The proposed local search algorithm is evaluated by both time and efficiency where efficiency refers to the degree of approximation of algorithm results with optimal solutions. Another algorithm, TAG, is used for comparison. Finally, a simulation experiment based on network simulator EstiNet is provided. The experimental results show network delay benefits from the proposed method.