bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inpatient diabetes management by specialized diabetes team versus primary service team in non-critical care units: impact on 30-day readmission rate and hospital cost
Authors: Bansal Vivek , Mottalib Adham , Pawar Taranveer K , Abbasakoor Noormuhammad , Chuang Eunice , Chaudhry Abrar , Sakr Mahmoud , Gabbay Robert A , Hamdy Osama
Published: April 2018

Objective

We compared the cost-effectiveness of two inpatient diabetes care models: one offered by a specialized diabetes team (SDT) versus a primary service team (PST).

Research design and methods

We retrospectively evaluated 756 hospital admissions of patients with diabetes to non-critical care units over 6 months. Out of 392 patients who met the eligibility criteria, 262 were matched 1:1 based on the mean of the initial four blood glucose (BG) values after admission. Primary outcomes were 30-day readmission rate and frequency, hospital length of stay (LOS) and estimated hospital cost. Secondary outcomes included glycemic control and BG variability.

Results

Diabetes complexity and in-hospital complications were significantly higher among patients treated by SDT versus PST. Thirty-day readmission rate to medical services was lower by 30.5% in the SDT group versus the PST group (P<0.001), while 30-day readmission rate to surgical services was 5% higher in the SDT group versus the PST group (P<0.05), but frequency of 30-day readmissions was lower (1.1 vs 1.6 times, P<0.05). LOS in medical services was not different between the two groups, but it was significantly longer in surgical services in SDT (P<0.05). However, LOS was significantly lower in patients who were seen by SDT during the first 24 hours of admission compared with those who were seen after that (4.7 vs 6.1 days, P<0.001). Compliance to follow-up was higher in the SDT group. These changes were translated into considerable cost saving.

Conclusions

Inpatient diabetes management by an SDT significantly reduces 30-day readmission rate to medical services, reduces inpatient diabetes cost, and improves transition of care and adherence to follow-up. SDT consultation during the first 24 hours of admission was associated with a significantly shorter hospital LOS.
Acupuncture for stable angina pectoris: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Yang Mingxiao , Du Ting , Sun Mingsheng , Long Hulin , Li Dehua , Shen Zhifu , Wu Qiaofeng , Lao Lixing , Liang Fanrong
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Previous reviews indicate that the effect of acupuncture on stable angina pectoris (SAP) remains controversial. The results of trials published in the past 5 years may possibly change this situation, but an updated systematic review is not available. We therefore designed this study to systematically assess the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for treating SAP.

Methods and analysis

Nine online databases will be searched without language or publication status restrictions from their inception to September 2017. Randomised controlled trials that include patients with stable angina receiving acupuncture therapy versus a control group will be deemed eligible. The selection of studies, data extraction and risk of bias assessment will be carried out by two independent reviewers. Data synthesis will be performed using RevMan V.5.3 software with either a fixed effects model or random effects model, depending on the heterogeneity test. Evidence quality will be evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system. The efficacy–effectiveness spectrum for each included trial will be rated using the Rating of Included Trials on the Efficacy-effectiveness Spectrum tool. Outcomes of interest include the improvement of weekly angina attacks and reduction of nitroglycerin medication use after receiving acupuncture treatment, the incidence of cardiovascular events, heart rate variability, pain intensity measured on a visual analogue scale, total workload and exercise duration at peak exercise, safety and adverse events. A meta-analysis will be conducted if no considerable heterogeneity is detected. The results will be presented as risk ratios with 95% CIs for dichotomous data and weighted mean differences or standardised mean differences with 95% CIs for continuous data.

Ethics and dissemination

This systematic review will not involve private information from individuals or endanger their rights, and therefore does not necessarily require ethical approval. The results may be published in a peer-reviewed journal or disseminated in relevant conferences.

Trial registration number

CRD42015016201.
British Thoracic Society Quality Standards for acute non-invasive ventilation in adults
Authors: Davies Michael , Allen Martin , Bentley Andrew , Bourke Stephen C , Creagh-Brown Ben , D’Oliveiro Rachel , Glossop Alastair , Gray Alasdair , Jacobs Phillip , Mahadeva Ravi , Moses Rachael , Setchfield Ian
Published: April 2018

Introduction

The purpose of the quality standards document is to provide healthcare professionals, commissioners, service providers and patients with a guide to standards of care that should be met for the provision of acute non-invasive ventilation in adults together with measurable markers of good practice.

Methods

Development of British Thoracic Society (BTS) Quality Standards follows the BTS process of quality standard production based on the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence process manual for the development of quality standards.

Results

6 quality statements have been developed, each describing a standard of care for the provision of acute non-invasive ventilation in the UK, together with measurable markers of good practice.

Conclusion

BTS Quality Standards for acute non-invasive ventilation in adults form a key part of the range of supporting materials that the Society produces to assist in the dissemination and implementation of guideline’s recommendations.
Is recreational running associated with earlier delivery and lower birth weight in women who continue to run during pregnancy? An international retrospective cohort study of running habits of 1293 female runners during pregnancy
Authors: Kuhrt Katy , Harmon Mark , Hezelgrave Natasha L , Seed Paul T , Shennan Andrew H
Published: April 2018

Background

Increasingly, women of reproductive age participate in recreational running, but its impact on pregnancy outcome is unknown. We investigated whether running affects gestational age at delivery and birth weight as indicators of cervical integrity and placental function, respectively.

Methods

1293 female participants were recruited from parkrun, which organises weekly runs involving 1.25 million runners across 450 parks worldwide. Those under 16 or unable to provide outcome data were excluded. Women were categorised according to whether they continued to run during pregnancy or not. Those who continued were further stratified dependent on average weekly kilometres, and which trimester they ran until. Retrospectively collected primary outcomes were gestational age at delivery and birthweight centile. Other outcomes included assisted vaginal delivery rate and prematurity at clinically important gestations.

Results

There was no significant difference in gestational age at delivery: 279.0 vs 279.6 days (mean difference 0.6 days, CI −1.3 to 2.4 days; P=0.55) or birthweight centile: 46.9%vs 44.9% (mean difference 2.0%, CI −1.3% to −5.3%; P=0.22) in women who stopped running and those who continued, respectively. Assisted vaginal delivery rate was increased in women who ran: 195/714 (27%) vs 128/579 (22%) (OR 1.32; CI 1.02 to 1.71; P=0.03).

Conclusion

Continuing to run during pregnancy does not appear to affect gestational age or birthweight centile, regardless of mean weekly distance or stage of pregnancy. Assisted vaginal delivery rates were higher in women who ran, possibly due to increased pelvic floor muscle tone. Randomised prospective analysis is necessary to further explore these findings.
Risk stratifying chest pain patients in the emergency department using HEART, GRACE and TIMI scores, with a single contemporary troponin result, to predict major adverse cardiac events
Authors: Reaney Peter D W , Elliott Hamish I , Noman Awsan , Cooper Jamie G
Published: April 2018

Background

The majority of patients presenting to the ED with cardiac sounding chest pain have a non-diagnostic ECG and the problem of differentiating those suffering an acute coronary syndrome from those without is familiar to all ED clinical staff. To stratify risk in these patients, specific scores have been developed. Recent work has focused on incorporating newer high-sensitivity cardiac troponin (hs-cTn) assays; however, issues regarding performance and availability of these assays remain.

Aim

Prospectively compare HEART, Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) and Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) scores, using a single contemporary cTn at admission, to predict a major adverse cardiac event (MACE) at 30 days.

Method

Prospective observational cohort study performed in a UK tertiary hospital in patients with suspected cardiac chest pain and no significant ST elevation on initial ECG. Data collection took place 2 December 2014 to 8 February 2016. The treating clinician recorded risk score data real time and a single contemporary cTn taken at presentation was used in score calculation. The primary endpoint was 30-day MACE. C-statistic was determined for each score and diagnostic characteristics of high-risk and low-risk cut-offs were calculated.

Results

189/1000 patients in the study developed a 30-day MACE. The c-statistic of HEART for 30-day MACE (0.87 (95% CI 0.84 to 0.90)) was higher than TIMI (0.78 (95% CI 0.74 to 0.81)) and GRACE (0.74 (95% CI 0.70 to 0.78)).

HEART score ≤3 identified low-risk patients with sensitivity 99.5% (95% CI 97.1% to 99.9%) and negative predictive value (NPV) 99.6% (95% CI 97.3% to 99.9%) exceeding TIMI 0 (sensitivity 97.4% (95% CI 93.9% to 99.1%) and NPV 97.8% (95% CI 94.8% to 99.1%)) and GRACE score 0–55 (sensitivity 95.2% (95% CI 91.1% to 97.8%) and NPV 95.8% (95% CI 92.2% to 97.7%)).

Conclusion

HEART outperformed both TIMI and GRACE in overall discriminative capacity for 30-day MACE. Using a single contemporary cTn at presentation, a HEART score of ≤3 demonstrated sensitivity and NPV of ≥99.5% for 30-day MACE. These results reach the threshold for a safe discharge strategy but should be interpreted thoughtfully in light of other work.
Estimated individual lifetime benefit from PCSK9 inhibition in statin-treated patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Kaasenbrood Lotte , Ray Kausik K , Boekholdt S Matthijs , Smulders Yvo M , LaRosa John C , Kastelein John J P , van der Graaf Yolanda , Dorresteijn Johannes A N , Visseren Frank L J
Published: April 2018

Objective

In statin-treated patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD), residual risk of cardiovascular events is partly explained by plasma levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). This study aimed to estimate individual benefit of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibition in CAD patients already treated with high-dose statin.

Methods

Individual lifetime benefit was estimated in months gain free of stroke or myocardial infarction (MI) until age 80 years. Predictions were based on two competing risk models developed in data from 4853 patients with CAD originating from the atorvastatin 80 mg arm of the Treating to New Targets (TNT) trial. The relative effect of PCSK9 inhibition was added to the models and was assumed based on average estimates from large clinical trials. We accounted for individual LDL-C levels, assuming 50% LDL-C reduction by PCSK9 inhibition and 21% cardiovascular risk reduction per mmol/L (39 mg/dL) LDL-C lowering.

Results

Estimated individual gain was <6 months in 61% of the patients, 6–12 months in 28% of the patients and ≥12 months in 10% of the patients (median 5, quartiles 2–8 months). Highest estimated benefit was observed in younger patients (aged 40–60 years) with high risk factor burden, particularly if LDL-C levels were >1.8 mmol/L (>70 mg/dL). Estimated benefit was lowest (≤5 months) in older patients (≥70 years), in particular if LDL-C and other risk factors levels were low.

Conclusion

The individual estimated lifetime benefit from PCSK9 inhibition in patients with stable CAD on high-dose statin varied from <6 to ≥12 months free of stroke or MI. Highest benefit is expected in younger patients (age 40–60 years) with high risk factor burden and relatively high LDL-C levels.

Trial registration number

NCT00327691; Post-results
Significance of Neurexin and Neuroligin Polymorphisms in Regulating Risk of Hirschsprung'S Disease
Authors: Li Yanhong , Liu Hui , Dong Yubin
Published: April 2018

By performing a basic case–control study among a Chinese population, the aims of this study were to explore if single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within neurexin and neuroligin were associated with susceptibility to Hirschsprung's disease (HD). Eleven SNPs within neurexin and neuroligin were selected in this basic case–control study, and this study recruited 210 children with HD and 187 healthy children. The t-test and Χ2 test were used to find the difference between case and control in their clinical variables. OR and 95% CI were used to assess the association between HD susceptibility and neurexin/neuroligin polymorphisms/haplotypes. Several SNPs were significantly associated with altered risk of HD in the Chinese Han population, including rs1421589 within NRXN1, rs11795613 and rs4844285 within NLGN3, as well as rs5961397, rs7157669 and rs724373 within NLGX4X (all P<0.05). Further studies presented that the effects of rs1421589 within NRXN1, rs4844285 and rs11795613 within NLGN3, as well as rs5961397 within NLGX4X on HD phenotypes were also statistically significant (all P<0.05). Conclusively, the polymorphisms and haplotypes situated within neurexin and neuroligin were markedly associated with the onset of HD, implying that mutations of neurexin and neuroligin might serve as the treatment target for HD for the Chinese children.
Hsv Infection is Associated with Gestational Hypertension: Results from the Us National Inpatient Sample
Authors: Shi Lifeng , Wu Yan
Published: April 2018

The purpose of this study was to determine if there is an association between maternal herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection and pre-eclampsia/eclampsia or gestational hypertension. The US Nationwide Inpatient Sample database was searched for women aged 15–44 years who delivered in a hospital between 2005 and 2014. The patients were categorized into those with and without HSV and pre-eclampsia/eclampsia and gestational hypertension were compared between the groups. The analytic sample size (n=8 264 076) was equivalent to a population-based sample size of 40 653 030 patients. After adjusting for significant variables including age, race, income, insurance status, diabetes mellitus (DM), gestational DM, obesity, and multiple gestations, multivariate regression analysis indicated that HSV was associated with a higher OR for gestational hypertension (adjusted OR 1.038; 95% CI 1.004 to 1.072). However, HSV was not associated with pre-eclampsia/eclampsia (OR 1.001; 95% CI 0.968 to 1.035) in univariate regression analysis. The results of the current study suggest that HSV infection is associated with gestational hypertension but not pre-eclampsia. Given the prevalence of HSV infection and its potential association with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, further study of HSV and hypertension in pregnancy is warranted.
GP perceptions of the adequacy of community-based care for patients with advanced heart failure in a UK region (NI): a qualitative study
Authors: Chen Jingwen Jessica , Gamble Kathryn , Graham-Wisener Lisa , McGlade Kieran , Doherty Jennifer , Donnelly Patrick , Stone Carol A
Published: April 2018

Objective

To assess the adequacy of community-based services available in Northern Ireland (NI) and to meet the multidimensional needs of patients living with New York Heart Association Stage III and IV heart failure (HF), as experienced and perceived by general practitioners (GP).

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted with GPs recruited via the University Department of General Practice and Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Agency. Interviews were transcribed, independently coded and analysed using a six-step thematic analysis approach.

Results

Twenty semistructured interviews were conducted. GPs reported managing patients in a ‘reactive rather than proactive’ way, responding only to acute medical needs, with hospital admission the default option due to lack of community-based expertise and services. Care provided by HF specialists was highly regarded but ‘access and coordination’ were lacking, related to inequity of access to Heart Failure Nursing Teams, lack of access to specialist advice and inadequate handover of information to GPs. Conversations regarding current and future care needs and preferences were important, but GPs described ‘neglecting conversations with the patient’, due to time constraints, prognostic uncertainty and fear of causing distress. They expressed the view that ‘specialist palliative care (SPC) is only a credible option in end stages’ related to limited understanding of the scope of SPC, a perception that timing of referral must depend on prognosis and concern that SPC services are cancer-focused.

Conclusions

Despite the extensive body of research which evidences the unmet multidimensional needs of patients with advanced HF, and more recent evidence for the effectiveness of integrated SPC in improving quality of life for patients with HF, health and social care services within NI have not adapted to assess and meet these needs.
Prevalence of feline urinary tract pathogens and antimicrobial resistance over five years
Authors: Teichmann‐Knorrn Svenja , Reese Sven , Wolf Georg , Hartmann Katrin , Dorsch Roswitha
Published: April 2018

The aim of this retrospective study was to document the prevalence of bacterial species in cats with significant bacteriuria and to compare their antimicrobial susceptibilities over five years. One hundred sixty‐nine positive urine cultures from 150 cats were included. Fifty‐five per cent showed clinical signs, while 40 per cent had subclinical bacteriuria.Escherichia coli,Staphylococcusspecies,Enterococcusspecies,Streptococcusspecies andProteus mirabilisaccounted for 50.5 per cent, 22.9 per cent, 15,1 per cent, 3.6 per cent and 2.6 per cent, respectively.Enterococcusspecies was significantly more common in cats with subclinical bacteriuria.Enterococcusspecies andProteus mirabilisisolates were resistant to a significantly higher number of antimicrobials than other isolates. Applying the formula to select rational antimicrobial therapy, bacterial isolates were most likely to be susceptible to imipenem, nitrofurantoin, gentamicin and amoxicillin clavulanic acid. Over the study period, only minor differences were noted for the antimicrobial impact factors (IFs) between years and between cats with and without clinical signs. The cumulative IF increased significantly compared with the previous 10 years. Empirical treatment of bacterial cystitis should be avoided whenever possible and, if needed, based on the locally determined bacterial spectrum and antibiotic susceptibility.
Germination response ofLithraea molleoidesseeds is similar after passage through the guts of several avian and a single mammalian disperser
Authors: Vergara-Tabares David L. , Whitworth-Hulse Juan I. , Funes Guillermo
Published: April 2018

Seed dispersal by vertebrate frugivores plays an important role in plant population dynamics and community structure. The gut treatment may modify the germination response of seeds; often the specific effects of seed ingestion are not consistent among frugivorous taxa. In the Chaco mountain woodlands of Argentina, an ecosystem threatened by human activities, frugivorous birds enhance the seed germination of the most abundant fleshy-fruited plants. However, the effect of the identity of dispersers on seed germination remains unknown. In this work, we evaluated and compared the seed germination response of Lithraea molleoides (Vell.) Engl. (the dominant tree of the region) to gut passage through three Turdus species and the Pampa Fox (Lycalopex gimnocercus). Owing to anatomical differences between the Turdus species and Pampa Fox, we expected to observe higher seed germination in the seeds treated by the gut of Turdus species compared with those that have passed through the Pampa Fox’s gut. Our results showed that germination response of L. molleoides seeds was positively related to gut passage through Turdus species and Pampa Foxes (without differences among seed dispersers). Consequently, both the avian species and the Pampa Fox contribute positively to the dispersal and germination of L. molleoides seeds.
Effects of natal water concentration and temperature on the behaviour of up-river migrating sockeye salmon
Authors: Middleton Collin T. , Hinch Scott G. , Martins Eduardo G. , Braun Douglas C. , Patterson David A. , Burnett Nicholas J. , Minke-Martin Vanessa , Casselman Matthew T.
Published: April 2018

Impoundments and diversions in freshwater corridors can alter the availability and concentration of natal water cues that migratory salmon rely on to guide homing during spawning migrations, although this has rarely been examined. By combining radiotelemetry and noninvasive biopsy, we provide the first detailed account of the effects of varying natal water concentrations, temperature, and individual physiology on the homing behaviour of wild adult Pacific salmon migrating through a regulated river. Most (89%) of the 346 sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) from the two distinct populations tracked in this study in southwestern British Columbia (Canada) delayed their migration in the outlet of a powerhouse that discharges strong concentrations of natal lake water and subsequently wandered in the Fraser River before continuing upstream into the Seton River, where natal water cues can also vary. There were few associations between metabolic stress indices and reproductive hormone levels with this behaviour in either population; however, higher temperatures and elevated natal water concentrations in the Seton River were associated with shorter powerhouse delays and less wandering in late-run migrants.
In vitro rhizobia response and symbiosis process under aluminum stress
Authors: Artigas Ramírez María D. , Silva Jéssica D. , Ohkama-Ohtsu Naoko , Yokoyama Tadashi
Published: April 2018

Aluminum (Al) toxicity is a major problem affecting soil fertility, microbial diversity, and nutrient uptake of plants. Rhizobia response and legume interaction under Al conditions are still unknown; it is important to understand how to develop and improve legume cultivation under Al stress. In this study, rhizobia response was recorded under different Al concentrations. Al effect on rhizobial cells was characterized by combination with different two pH conditions. Symbiosis process was compared between α- and β-rhizobia inoculated onto soybean varieties. Rhizobial cell numbers was decreased as Al concentration increased. However, induced Al tolerance considerably depended on rhizobia types and their origins. Accordingly, organic acid results were in correlation with growth rate and cell density which suggested that citric acid might be a positive selective force for Al tolerance and plant interaction on rhizobia. Al toxicity delayed and interrupted the plant–rhizobia interaction and the effect was more pronounced under acidic conditions. Burkholderia fungorum VTr35 significantly improved plant growth under acid–Al stress in combination with all soybean varieties. Moreover, plant genotype was an important factor to establish an effective nodulation and nitrogen fixation under Al stress. Additionally, tolerant rhizobia could be applied as an inoculant on stressful agroecosystems. Furthermore, metabolic pathways have still been unknown under Al stress.
Dirac phenomenological analyses for the proton scatterings from nickel isotopes
Authors: Shim Sugie
Published: April 2018

Relativistic Dirac coupled channel analyses are performed phenomenologically using an optical potential model for the intermediate energy proton inelastic scatterings from nickel isotopes, 58Ni and 60Ni. The first-order rotational collective model is used for the transition optical potentials to describe the low-lying excited collective states of the ground state rotational band. The complicated Dirac coupled channel equations are solved phenomenologically by varying the optical potential and the deformation parameters to reproduce the experimental data, using a computer program that uses a sequential iteration method. The channel-coupling effects of the multistep transition process for the excited states of the ground state rotational band are found to be strong and lead the calculation results to better agreement with the experimental data when the channel coupling between the excited states is added in the calculation. The Dirac equations are reduced to the second-order differential equations to obtain the Schrödinger equivalent effective central and spin–orbit optical potentials, and the obtained effective potentials are analyzed.
On the asymptotic analysis of the JWKB method via change of dependent variable in the first-order Bessel’s equation
Authors: Deniz C.
Published: April 2018

The first-order Jeffreys–Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin method (called (JWKB)1) is a conventional semi-classical approximation method used in quantum mechanical systems for accurate solutions. It is known to give accurate energy and wave-function in the classically accessible region of the related quantum mechanical system defined by Schroedinger’s equation whereas the solutions in the classically inaccessible region require special treatment, conventionally known as the asymptotic matching rules. In this work, (JWKB)1 solution of the Bessel differential equation of the first order (called (BDE)1), chosen as a mathematical model, is studied by being transformed into the normal form via the change of dependent variable. General JWKB solution of the initial value problem where appropriately chosen initial values are applied is studied in both normal and standard form representations to be analyzed by the generalized JWKB asymptotic matching rules regarding the Sij matrix elements defined in the literature. Consequently, regions requiring first-order and zeroth-order JWKB approximations are determined successfully.
Tachyon dynamics — for neutrinos?
Authors: Schwartz Charles
Published: April 2018

Following earlier studies that provided a consistent theory of kinematics for tachyons (faster-than-light particles), we here embark on a study of tachyon dynamics, both in classical physics and in the quantum theory. Examining a general scattering process, we come to recognize that the labels given to “in” and “out” states are not Lorentz invariant for tachyons; and this lets us find a sensible interpretation of negative energy states. For statistical mechanics, as well as for scattering problems, we study what should be the proper expression for density of states for tachyons. We review the previous work on quantization of a Dirac field for tachyons and go on to expand earlier considerations of neutrinos as tachyons in the context of cosmology. We stumble into the realization that tachyon neutrinos would contribute to gravitation with the opposite sign compared to tachyon antineutrinos. This leads to the gobsmacking prediction that the Cosmic Neutrino Background, if they are indeed tachyons, might explain both phenomena of Dark Matter and Dark Energy. This theoretical study also makes contact with the anticipated results from the experiments KATRIN and PTOLEMY, which focus on beta decay and neutrino absorption by Tritium.
The second lightest CP-even Higgs boson signals in the NMSSM at the LHC
Authors: Almarashi M. M.
Published: April 2018

We study the signal rates of the second lightest CP-even Higgs boson, [Formula: see text], of the NMSSM produced in gluon fusion, in association with bottom quarks and in association with top quarks, which is not the SM-like Higgs boson, at the LHC. We evaluate the production rates of [Formula: see text] in the SM fermionic and bosonic final states in addition to [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] final states. It is observed that the size of the signal rates in some regions of the NMSSM parameter space is quite large and that could help extracting [Formula: see text] signals at the LHC through a variety of decay channels.
Image Cosegmentation Using Shape Similarity and Object Discovery Scheme
Authors: Xu Haiping , Wang Meiqing , Chen Fei , Lai Choi-Hong
Published: April 2018

Image cosegmentation is a newly emerging research area in image processing. It refers to the problem of segmenting the common objects simultaneously in multiple images by utilizing the similarity of foreground regions among these images. In this paper, a new active contour model is proposed by using shape-similarity and foreground discovery scheme. The foreground discovery scheme is used to obtain the rough contours of the common objects which are used as initial evolution curves. The energy function of the proposed model includes two parts: an intra-image energy and an inter-image energy. The intra-image energy explores the differences between foreground regions and background regions in each image. And the inter-image energy is used to explore the similarities of the common objects among target images, which composes of a region color feature energy term and a shape constraint energy term. The region color feature term indicates the foreground consistency and the background consistency among the images; and the shape constraint energy term allows the global changes of shapes and truncates the local variation caused by misleading features. Experimental results show that the proposed model can improve the accuracy of the image cosegmentation significantly through regularizing the changes of shapes.
Handwritten Indic Script Identification in Multi-Script Document Images: A Survey
Authors: Obaidullah Sk. Md. , Santosh K. C. , Das Nibaran , Halder Chayan , Roy Kaushik
Published: April 2018

Script identification is crucial for automating optical character recognition (OCR) in multi-script documents since OCRs are script-dependent. In this paper, we present a comprehensive survey of the techniques developed for handwritten Indic script identification. Different pre-processing and feature extraction techniques, including classifiers used for script identification, are categorized and their merits and demerits are discussed. We also provide information about some handwritten Indic script datasets. Finally, we highlight the extensions and/or future scope of works together with challenges.
A self-sustained traversable scale-dependent wormhole
Authors: Contreras Ernesto , Bargueño Pedro
Published: April 2018

A self-sustained traversable wormhole is obtained as a vacuum solution of a scale-dependent gravitational theory. Comparisons with other approaches towards wormhole self-sustainability are presented with emphasis on the running of the gravitational coupling and on a possible effective description of gravity near the Planck scale.
A MATHEMATICAL MODEL FOR EBOLA EPIDEMIC WITH SELF-PROTECTION MEASURES
Authors: BERGE T. , CHAPWANYA M. , LUBUMA J. M.-S. , TEREFE Y. A.
Published: April 2018

A mathematical model presented in Berge T, Lubuma JM-S, Moremedi GM, Morris N Shava RK, A simple mathematical model for Ebola in Africa, J Biol Dyn 11(1): 42–74 (2016) for the transmission dynamics of Ebola virus is extended to incorporate vaccination and change of behavior for self-protection of susceptible individuals. In the new setting, it is shown that the disease-free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable when the basic reproduction number [Formula: see text] is less than or equal to unity and unstable when [Formula: see text]. In the latter case, the model system admits at least one endemic equilibrium point, which is locally asymptotically stable. Using the parameters relevant to the transmission dynamics of the Ebola virus disease, we give sensitivity analysis of the model. We show that the number of infectious individuals is much smaller than that obtained in the absence of any intervention. In the case of the mass action formulation with vaccination and education, we establish that the number of infectious individuals decreases as the intervention efforts increase. In the new formulation, apart from supporting the theory, numerical simulations of a nonstandard finite difference scheme that we have constructed suggests that the results on the decrease of the number of infectious individuals is valid.
DYNAMICS OF A STOCHASTIC LOTKA–VOLTERRA MUTUALISTIC PARASITE–HOST SYSTEM WITH LÉVY JUMPS
Authors: GAO YONGXIN , ZHANG XUETING
Published: April 2018

This paper is concerned with a two-dimensional stochastic Lotka–Volterra mutualistic parasite–host system with Lévy jumps. First, the study reveals that each species is either extinct or persistent in the mean, relying on some critical values. The result shows that both the environmental noises and Lévy jumps play important roles in determining the persistent in the mean or extinction of each species. Then, we establish the sufficient criteria for stability on distribution of the system. Finally, we give some numerical simulations to support the main results. Some recent works are extended and improved greatly.
CLOSED FORM SOLUTIONS FOR NONLINEAR BIOLOGICAL POPULATION MODEL
Authors: SHAKEEL MUHAMMAD , IQBAL MUHAMMAD ASAD , MOHYUD-DIN SYED TAUSEEF
Published: April 2018

The exploration of closed-form solutions for nonlinear partial differential equations (NLPDEs) is an attractive subject in the different branches of mathematical and biological sciences. In this paper, we have applied a modified exp-function method to calculate closed-form solutions of a degenerate parabolic equation arising in the spatial diffusion of biological populations. The model assists us to comprehend the dynamical process of population variations in population models and delivers prized guesses. It is shown that the obtained solutions are more general and fresh and can be helpful to analyze the inner mechanism of other nonlinear biological models. Moreover, 2D and 3D graphical demonstrations together with the numerical data strengthen the effectiveness of the rummage-sale procedure.
Volume growth in the component of fibered twists
Authors: Kim Joontae , Kwon Myeonggi , Lee Junyoung
Published: April 2018

For a Liouville domain [Formula: see text] whose boundary admits a periodic Reeb flow, we can consider the connected component [Formula: see text] of fibered twists. In this paper, we investigate an entropy-type invariant, called the slow volume growth, in the component [Formula: see text] and give a uniform lower bound of the growth using wrapped Floer homology. We also show that [Formula: see text] has infinite order in [Formula: see text] if there is an admissible Lagrangian [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text] whose wrapped Floer homology is infinite dimensional. We apply our results to fibered twists coming from the Milnor fibers of [Formula: see text]-type singularities and complements of a symplectic hypersurface in a real symplectic manifold. They admit so-called real Lagrangians, and we can explicitly compute wrapped Floer homology groups using a version of Morse–Bott spectral sequences.
On the Steiner 4-Diameter of Graphs
Authors: WANG ZHAO , MAO YAPING , LI HENGZHE , YE CHENGFU
Published: April 2018

The Steiner distance of a graph, introduced by Chartrand, Oellermann, Tian and Zou in 1989, is a natural generalization of the concept of classical graph distance. For a connected graph G of order at least 2 and [Formula: see text], the Steiner distance dG(S) among the vertices of S is the minimum size among all connected subgraphs whose vertex sets contain S. Let n, k be two integers with 2 ≤ k ≤ n. Then the Steiner k-eccentricity ek(v) of a vertex v of G is defined by [Formula: see text]. Furthermore, the Steiner k-diameter of G is [Formula: see text]. In 2011, Chartrand, Okamoto and Zhang showed that k − 1 ≤ sdiamk(G) ≤ n − 1. In this paper, graphs with sdiam4(G) = 3, 4, n − 1 are characterized, respectively.
Repackable Log2(N, m, p) Networks and Wide-Sense Nonblocking Log2(8, 0, p) Networks
Authors: LIN BEY-CHI
Published: April 2018

The repackable Log2(N, 0, p) network, wherein repacking activities are required during departures but not upon arrivals, was proposed by Lin and Lea in a study on multi-Log2N networks. Due to their complexity, Log2(N, m, p) networks are considerably more difficult to analyze compared with Log2(N, 0, p) networks. In this paper, we successfully extend the repackable Log2(N, 0, p) networks to Log2(N, m, p) networks. In addition, the proposed routing algorithm is shown to be an optimal algorithm according to the total number of planes required. Furthermore, an analysis tool is proposed for studying repackable Log2(N, m, p) networks and is applied to show that each wide-sense nonblocking Log2(8, 0, p) network requires the same total number of planes as a strictly nonblocking network under any possible routing strategy.
Thermodynamical and observational aspects of cosmological model with linear equation of state
Authors: Singh G. P. , Hulke Nikhil , Singh Ashutosh
Published: April 2018

In this paper, a cosmological model with linear equation of state in the framework of General relativity is studied. We explore the thermodynamical aspects of the cosmological model with equilibrium description. In particular, we discuss the validity of generalized second law of thermodynamics for resulting cosmologies. General conditions for this model to satisfy the slow roll conditions for inflation are discussed.
Behavioral Variability and Phenotypic Diversity in Bacterial Chemotaxis
Authors: Waite Adam James , Frankel Nicholas W. , Emonet Thierry
Published: April 2018

Living cells detect and process external signals using signaling pathways that are affected by random fluctuations. These variations cause the behavior of individual cells to fluctuate over time (behavioral variability) and generate phenotypic differences between genetically identical individuals (phenotypic diversity). These two noise sources reduce our ability to predict biological behavior because they diversify cellular responses to identical signals. Here, we review recent experimental and theoretical advances in understanding the mechanistic origin and functional consequences of such variation in Escherichia coli chemotaxis—a well-understood model of signal transduction and behavior. After briefly summarizing the architecture and logic of the chemotaxis system, we discuss determinants of behavior and chemotactic performance of individual cells. Then, we review how cell-to-cell differences in protein abundance map onto differences in individual chemotactic abilities and how phenotypic variability affects the performance of the population. We conclude with open questions to be addressed by future research.
The Physical Properties of Ceramides in Membranes
Authors: Alonso Alicia , Goñi Félix M.
Published: April 2018

Ceramides are sphingolipids containing a sphingosine or a related base, to which a fatty acid is linked through an amide bond. When incorporated into a lipid bilayer, ceramides exhibit a number of properties not shared by almost any other membrane lipid: Ceramides ( a) are extremely hydrophobic and thus cannot exist in suspension in aqueous media; ( b) increase the molecular order (rigidity) of phospholipids in membranes; ( c) give rise to lateral phase separation and domain formation in phospholipid bilayers; ( d) possess a marked intrinsic negative curvature that facilitates formation of inverted hexagonal phases; ( e) make bilayers and cell membranes permeable to small and large (i.e., protein-size) solutes; and ( f) promote transmembrane (flip-flop) lipid motion. Unfortunately, there is hardly any link between the physical studies reviewed here and the mass of biological and clinical studies on the effects of ceramides in health and disease.
The Diversity of Layered Halide Perovskites
Authors: Smith Matthew D. , Crace Ethan J. , Jaffe Adam , Karunadasa Hemamala I.
Published: April 2018

The two-dimensional congeners of the well-known three-dimensional perovskites display new properties enabled by their reduced dimensionality. Here, organic molecules separate inorganic sheets, affording the properties of both discrete molecules and extended solids in single, well-defined materials. The choice of organic and inorganic components engenders a large range of structural motifs, which yield diverse properties such as electroluminescence, white-light emission, photoconductivity, porosity, and reactivity. Layered halide perovskites have been known for decades. Their recent resurgence compels us to understand the fundamental studies that set the stage for their current technological relevance. We are not providing a comprehensive review of this vast and rapidly growing field. Instead, we highlight some of the discoveries that have directed current research in this field. We hope to introduce new researchers to layered halide perovskites to bring fresh perspectives to study this venerable family of materials that continue to surprise us today.
Materials for Gamma-Ray Spectrometers: Inorganic Scintillators
Authors: McGregor Douglas S.
Published: April 2018

Scintillation detectors constitute an important branch of radiation detection instrumentation. The discovery of the inorganic scintillating compound thallium-activated sodium iodide (NaI:Tl) in 1948 was key to the production of the first practical gamma-ray spectrometer. Since that time, numerous inorganic scintillators have been discovered and studied. Many of the more successful inorganic scintillators are described, including discussion of their properties and performance, in this article.
Neuronal Activity-Dependent Control of Postnatal Neurogenesis and Gliogenesis
Authors: Káradóttir Ragnhildur T. , Kuo Chay T.
Published: April 2018

The addition of new neurons and oligodendroglia in the postnatal and adult mammalian brain presents distinct forms of gray and white matter plasticity. Substantial effort has been devoted to understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms controlling postnatal neurogenesis and gliogenesis, revealing important parallels to principles governing the embryonic stages. While during central nervous system development, scripted temporal and spatial patterns of neural and glial progenitor proliferation and differentiation are necessary to create the nervous system architecture, it remains unclear what driving forces maintain and sustain postnatal neural stem cell (NSC) and oligodendrocyte progenitor cell (OPC) production of new neurons and glia. In recent years, neuronal activity has been identified as an important modulator of these processes. Using the distinct properties of neurotransmitter ionotropic and metabotropic channels to signal downstream cellular events, NSCs and OPCs share common features in their readout of neuronal activity patterns. Here we review the current evidence for neuronal activity-dependent control of NSC/OPC proliferation and differentiation in the postnatal brain, highlight some potential mechanisms used by the two progenitor populations, and discuss future studies that might advance these research areas further.
Evolution of New miRNAs and Cerebro-Cortical Development
Authors: Kosik Kenneth S. , Nowakowski Tomasz
Published: April 2018

The noncoding portion of the genome, including microRNAs, has been fertile evolutionary soil for cortical development in primates. A major contribution to cortical expansion in primates is the generation of novel precursor cell populations. Because miRNA expression profiles track closely with cell identity, it is likely that numerous novel microRNAs have contributed to cellular diversity in the brain. The tools to determine the genomic context within which novel microRNAs emerge and how they become integrated into molecular circuitry are now in hand.
Effects of Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy and Local Administration of Minocycline on Clinical, Microbiological, and Inflammatory Markers of Periodontal Pockets: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hokari Takahiro , Morozumi Toshiya , Komatsu Yasutaka , Shimizu Taro , Yoshino Toshiaki , Tanaka Maki , Tanaka Yoshie , Nohno Kaname , Kubota Takehiko , Yoshie Hiromasa
Published: April 2018

Objective. We evaluated the efficacies of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) and minocycline ointment (MO) on clinical and bacteriological markers and the local host inflammatory response. Materials and Methods. A total of 30 patients with chronic periodontitis were randomly assigned to two groups. Selected periodontal pockets (probing depth 5–7 mm with bleeding on probing) were treated with aPDT or MO. Measurements of clinical parameters and the collection of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and subgingival plaque were performed at baseline, and at 1 and 4 weeks after treatment. Quantification of periodontopathic bacteria in the sulcus and a multiplex bead immunoassay of ten inflammatory cytokines in the GCF were performed. Results. Local MO administration exhibited a significant decrease in scores for clinical parameters (P<0.01) and a significant reduction in bacterial counts (P<0.01) and interleukin-1β and interferon-γ levels at 1 and 4 weeks after treatment (P<0.01). No significant changes were observed in the aPDT group, except in clinical parameters. Conclusions. Although our study had some limitations, we found that while local administration of MO may slightly help to improve clinical, microbiological, and crevicular cytokine levels in periodontal pockets, aPDT did not show any effects. This trial is registered with the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry UMIN000013376.
Effects of Exercise Training Combined with Increased Physical Activity to Prevent Chronic Pain in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Preliminary Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hirase Tatsuya , Kataoka Hideki , Inokuchi Shigeru , Nakano Jiro , Sakamoto Junya , Okita Minoru
Published: April 2018

Objective. With the aim of developing a chronic pain prevention program, this randomized controlled trial examined whether exercise training combined with increased physical activity more effectively improves pain and physical activity than exercise training alone in community-dwelling older adults without chronic pain. Methods. We randomized 76 older adults without chronic pain into an intervention group n=38 involving exercise training combined with increased physical activity and a control group n=38 involving exercise training alone. The exercise training comprised weekly 60-min sessions for 12 weeks. The program to increase physical activity required participants to record their daily step counts using pedometers. Pain intensity, total number of pain sites, and physical activity were assessed before and 12 weeks after the intervention. Results. A time-by-group interaction was found for physical activity, with the intervention group showing significant improvement p<0.05. The intervention group also showed greater improvement in pain intensity and total number of pain sites at 12 weeks after intervention than the control group p<0.05. Conclusions. In older adults without chronic pain, exercise training combined with increased physical activity improves key outcome indicators more effectively than exercise training alone. “This trial is registered with UMIN000018503.”