bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post-acute management of the acquired long QT syndrome
Authors: Barra Sérgio , Agarwal Sharad , Begley David , Providência Rui
Published: April 2014

The mechanisms underlying drug induced QT prolongation and the immediate treatment of torsade de pointes have been extensively studied but the post-acute management of the Acquired Long QT Syndrome (ALQTS) remains to be addressed. We aimed to review the state of the art data regarding risk stratification, arrhythmic prevention and treatment of patients with ALQTS. A comprehensive review of the scientific data collectable from MEDLINE, EMBASE and COCHRANE (from inception to April 2013) was performed, and descriptive and qualitative information was extracted from the most relevant manuscripts. QT prolonging drugs are widely used in hospital clinical practice, and several studies have shown a high prevalence of QT interval prolongation in patients admitted to hospital and a high rate of prescription of QT interval prolonging drugs to patients presenting with QT interval prolongation. Therefore, the acute and post-acute management of ALQTS is of the utmost importance. Avoidance of offending triggers, electrocardiographic screening, pacing at a relatively fast lower rate limit and using pause prevention programming (preferably with concomitant β blocker treatment), implantable defibrillators in the highest risk patients, genetic testing and counselling in selected cases, and family screening are among the potentially applicable strategies. The latter is justifiable by the fact that some studies unveiled a surprisingly similar positive mutation rate in drug induced LQTS compared with congenital LQTS, supporting the hypothesis that the former can be regarded as a latent form of the latter. Drug challenge with D,L-sotalol in suspected LQTS and treatment with a carvedilol analogue, verapamil or an Ikr activating drug are still in need of further investigation. The post-acute management of patients with ALQTS has received scarce attention in the past, probably due to the fact that it is considered a reversible phenomenon in most cases. Considering the relatively high risk of arrhythmic recurrence in the highest risk ALQTS patients, effective preventive and treatment strategies are warranted, and further research is needed.
Potential differences betweenLeptospiraserovars, host‐adapted (Bratislava) and incidental (Copenhageni), in determining reproductive disorders in embryo transfer recipient mares in Brazil
Authors: Pinna A. , Martins G. , Hamond C. , Medeiros M. A. , de Souza G. N. , Lilenbaum W.
Published: April 2014

The objective was to investigate potential differences between twoLeptospiraserovars, host‐adapted (Bratislava) and incidental (Copenhageni), in causing reproductive disorders in mares. From August 2009 to March 2011, 608 adult recipient mares from eight studs located in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, were screened for leptospirosis. These mares were 3–8 years of age, of various breeds, and were managed in a semiextensive system (embryo transfer centres). According to the reproductive history of these mares, the studs were categorised as Group A (357 mares: high prevalence of reproductive problems), and Group B (251 mares: all pregnant). Of the 608 samples tested serologically, 273 (44.9 per cent) were reactive (titres ≥200), predominantly against Bratislava (62.3 per cent of reactive mares). In Group A, 247/357 sera (69.2 per cent) were reactive, with reactivity against Bratislava (64.8 per cent of reactive). By contrast, in Group B, only 26/251 sera (10.4 per cent) were reactive, the majority against Copenhageni (61.5 per cent of reactive). Seroreactivity against Bratislava was more likely to be associated (P<0.001) with reproductive problems than seroreactivity against Copenhageni; this association was true for early embryonic death (P<0.001), perinatal death (P<0.01), and abortion (P<0.001). Additionally, 29 urine samples were collected (from Group A mares) forLeptospiraspecies PCR, of which 16 were positive (55.2 per cent). We concluded that leptospirosis was associated with poor reproductive performance in embryo recipients, with the majority due to host‐adapted Bratislava.
Relationships between metabolite and IGF1 concentrations with fertility and production outcomes following left abomasal displacement
Authors: Lyons N. A. , Cooke J. S. , Wilson S. , van Winden S. C. , Gordon P. J. , Wathes D. C.
Published: April 2014

Left displacement of the abomasum (LDA) is an important periparturient disorder of dairy cows. This study evaluated differences in metabolic parameters between case‐control pairs of cows (n=67) from 24 farms, and related these to outcomes in fertility and production. Cows with an assisted delivery were ×3 more likely to develop LDA, and affected cows tended to have had a longer dry period. At recruitment, cows with LDA tended to be in lower body condition accompanied by significantly higher circulating concentrations of β‐hydroxybutyrate (BHB), non‐esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and glucose and lower IGF1. Overall culling rate for all cows in the subsequent lactation was 22.5 per cent. Cows with LDA were not at increased odds of being culled but they produced, on average, 2272 l less milk and tended to have longer intervals to conception. Considering all cows irrespective of LDA status, the mean IGF1 level at recruitment was the only measured parameter associated with subsequent risk of culling (culled 11.7 ng/ml, not culled 23.5 ng/ml; P=0.005). Our findings support previous work indicating that poor insulin sensitivity through an uncoupling of the somatotrophic axis may be an important factor associated with LDA. Improved nutritional management of dry cows should reduce the incidence of both LDA and culling.
The impact of the National Scrapie Plan on the PRNP genotype distribution of the British national flock, 2002–2012
Authors: Ortiz‐Pelaez A. , Thompson C.E. , Dawson M.
Published: April 2014

In order to determine the PRNP genotype distribution of the sheep population and to assess the impact of the National Scrapie Plan, a total of 9972 brain samples were collected between January 2012 and April 2013 from sheep sampled under the TSE active surveillance programme in Great Britain. Genotype frequencies observed were ARR/ARQ (29.5 per cent), ARR/ARR (28.6 per cent), ARR/AHQ (10.9 per cent), ARQ/ARQ (9.8 per cent) and AHQ/ARQ (7.2 per cent). Of the remaining possible genotypes, none accounted for more than 5 per cent of the sheep sampled. ARR was the most frequent allele (52.3 per cent), followed by the wild‐type ARQ (30 per cent), AHQ (11.3 per cent), VRQ (3.4 per cent) and ARH (3 per cent). There has been a positive but limited effect of the breeding for resistance schemes within Great Britain on the genotype distribution in the sheep national flock. The dissemination of the resistant alleles has proven to have been less noticeable than in the breeding flocks. The risk of atypical scrapie remains very similar to that in 2002. Significant differences were observed in the genotype profiles of the abattoir survey and fallen stock survey samples. It would be advisable to promote best practice among farmers to consolidate the level of genetic resistance in their flocks and to set up a national flock genotype monitoring programme in partnership with the industry.
Massive fermion particle production in de Sitter universe: Ambient space approach
Authors: Mirabi Sepideh
Published: March 2014

In this paper, we study the massive spin-½ particle creation in de Sitter (dS) space where the related fields are written in (4+1)-dimensional bulk or the so-called ambient space approach. This approach mimics the flat space quantum field theory (QFT) and the field operators are defined globally on dS space. The main purpose of this study is defining the |in〉 and |out〉 modes for the proposed quantum field which has been written in terms of the dS plane wave in the 4+1 dimensions. We compute, via the Bogoliubov coefficients, the rate of particle creation in dS universe.
Electric discharge in vacuum by minicharged particles
Authors: Li Xin , Voloshin M. B.
Published: March 2014

We discuss the possibility of a laboratory search for light minicharged particles carrying electric charge, which is a small fraction ϵ of that of electron. We point out that the production of pairs of such particles in an electric field would result in a measurable discharge in vacuum of electrically charged objects. A realistic experiment may be sensitive to such particles at least down to ϵ~10-8, if their mass is below ~10-4 eV .
APPLICATIONS OF VARIANCE FRACTAL DIMENSION: A SURVEY
Authors: PHINYOMARK ANGKOON , PHUKPATTARANONT PORNCHAI , LIMSAKUL CHUSAK
Published: April 2014

Chaotic dynamical systems are pervasive in nature and can be shown to be deterministic through fractal analysis. There are numerous methods that can be used to estimate the fractal dimension. Among the usual fractal estimation methods, variance fractal dimension (VFD) is one of the most significant fractal analysis methods that can be implemented for real-time systems. The basic concept and theory of VFD are presented. Recent research and the development of several applications based on VFD are reviewed and explained in detail, such as biomedical signal processing and pattern recognition, speech communication, geophysical signal analysis, power systems and communication systems. The important parameters that need to be considered in computing the VFD are discussed, including the window size and the window increment of the feature, and the step size of the VFD. Directions for future research of VFD are also briefly outlined.
CUBIC SPLINE SUPER FRACTAL INTERPOLATION FUNCTIONS
Authors: KAPOOR G. P. , PRASAD SRIJANANI ANURAG
Published: April 2014

In the present work, the notion of Cubic Spline Super Fractal Interpolation Function (SFIF) is introduced to simulate an object that depicts one structure embedded into another and its approximation properties are investigated. It is shown that, for an equidistant partition points of [x0, xN], the interpolating Cubic Spline SFIF[Formula: see text] and their derivatives [Formula: see text] converge respectively to the data generating function y(x) ≡ y(0)(x) and its derivatives y(j)(x) at the rate of h2-j+ϵ(0 < ϵ < 1), j = 0, 1, 2, as the norm h of the partition of [x0, xN] approaches zero. The convergence results for Cubic Spline SFIF found here show that any desired accuracy can be achieved in the approximation of a regular data generating function and its derivatives by a Cubic Spline SFIF and its corresponding derivatives.
TOWARDS PRODUCTIVE SCIENCE-POLICY INTERFACES: A RESEARCH AGENDA
Authors: VAN ENST WYNANDA I. , DRIESSEN PETER P. J. , RUNHAAR HENS A. C.
Published: April 2014

Science-policy interactions are often contested, due to strategic production and use of knowledge. This is problematic because the potential of science to enrich decision-making is underexploited. Scientific literature suggests that these problems are related to a lack of credibility, salience and/or legitimacy of knowledge. Science-policy interfaces (SPIs), such as knowledge brokers, are suggested to enhance science-policy interactions by promoting the production of credible, salient and legitimate knowledge. However, the current scientific debate provides little clarity on which SPIs are most useful in solving which science-policy interaction problems and what strategies should be employed. Based on a profound literature review, this paper aims to arrive at a better understanding of SPIs, by providing conceptual clarity and linking typical SPIs to distinct problems and the contexts in which they emerge. We suggest an empirical research agenda to test theoretical claims about SPIs and our own refinements thereof, and to identify best practices.
A remark on a result of Iwasawa on Hecke characters of type A0
Authors: Vallières Daniel
Published: April 2014

Let K and L be two number fields. Previously, Iwasawa proved a theorem about Hecke characters of K with values in L under the assumptions that K is Galois over ℚ, K is a CM-field and K ⊆ L. In this paper, we remove these hypotheses.
On the structure of n-zero-sum free sequences over cyclic groups of order n
Authors: Peng Jiangtao , Qian Guoyou , Sun Fang , Wang Linlin
Published: April 2014

Let G be a finite cyclic group of order n. The Erdős–Ginzburg–Ziv theorem states that each sequence of length 2n - 1 over G has a zero-sum subsequence of length n. A sequence without a zero-sum subsequence of length n is called n-zero-sum free. Savchev and Chen characterized all the n-zero-sum free sequences of length n + k - 1 over G, where [Formula: see text]. In the present paper, we determine all the n-zero-sum free sequences of length [Formula: see text] over G.
Review on high temperature piezoelectric ceramics and actuators based on BiScO3–PbTiO3 solid solutions
Authors: Chen Jianguo , Cheng Jinrong , Dong Shuxiang
Published: March 2014

In recent years, industries in the fields of petrochemical, automotive, and aerospace have expressed their interest in utilizing piezoelectric actuators for high-temperature (HT) operations at the temperature above 150°C. HT piezoelectric ceramics (1-x) BiScO 3–x PbTiO 3 (BS–PT) are considered as one of the most competitive piezoelectric actuation materials used in the harsh environment because of its high Curie temperature (TC = 450° C ) as well as high piezoelectric coefficient (d33 = 460 pC/N ) in the MPB composition. This paper summarized the recent progress in HT piezoelectric ceramics and actuators based on BS–PT solid solutions. The properties of BS–PT piezoelectric ceramics and actuators, including driving mechanisms, actuation performances and their applications in HT environment were also discussed.
Polarization properties and crystal structures of ferroelectric (Ba,Ca)TiO3 single crystals
Authors: Imura Ryota , Kitanaka Yuuki , Oguchi Takeshi , Noguchi Yuji , Miyayama Masaru
Published: March 2014

We have investigated the spontaneous polarization (P s ) of Ba 1-x Ca x TiO 3 (BCT) by polarization hysteresis measurements using single crystals and by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Single crystals of BCT (x = 0.07) were grown by a top-seeded solution growth (TSSG) method. The polarization measurements show that the crystals (x = 0.07) have a P s of 26.0 μC/cm2, which is slightly small compared with BaTiO 3 (27.3 μC/cm2). Our DFT calculations based on a supercell approach show that Ca atoms are markedly displaced cooperatively with the adjacent Ti atoms along the P s direction. It is suggested that the CaTiO 3-like octahedral rotation is constructed in the BCT supercell around the Ca atoms, which is the origin of the smaller P s observed for the BCT crystals.
In situ
diffusion test of hydrogen gas in the Opalinus Clay
Authors: Vinsot A. , Appelo C. A. J. , Lundy M. , Wechner S. , Lettry Y. , Lerouge C. , Fernández A. M. , Labat M. , Tournassat C. , De Canniere P. , Schwyn B. , Mckelvie J. , Dewonck S. , Bossart P. , Delay J.
Published: April 2014

Hydrogen gas was injected, together with helium and neon, into a borehole in the low-diffusivity Opalinus Clay rock. The hydrogen partial pressure was at most 60 mbar. A water production flow rate from the surrounding rock of
c.
15 ml/day had been obtained previously, indicating that the test interval wall was presumably saturated with water. Helium and neon concentrations decreased as expected while taking into account dissolution and diffusion processes in the porewater. In contrast, the disappearance rate of hydrogen observed (2×10
−4
to 3×10
−4
mol/day/m
2
) was
c.
20 times larger than the calculated rate considering only dissolution and diffusion. The same rate was observed following a new hydrogen injection and over a six-month semi-continuous injection phase. Simultaneously, sulphate and iron concentrations decreased in the water, whereas sulphide became detectable. These evolutions may be due to biotic processes involving hydrogen oxidation, sulphate reduction and Fe(III) reduction.
Mechanical interpretations of the homogeneous nature of bentonite due to swelling
Authors: Kobayashi I. , Suzuki K. , Asano H. , Sellin P. , Svemar C. , Holmqvist M.
Published: April 2014

To achieve the high sealing capability required for the bentonite engineered barriers used in geological disposal facilities for radioactive waste, the bentonite should be highly compacted. Previous investigation of methods to enable such compaction has revealed that the construction methods used have an impact on the density distribution. However, these investigations focused on achieving the required average dry density in the bentonite barriers and little attention has been paid to the distribution of dry density. As a result, there has been a lack of understanding of how the construction method used affects this distribution, which is highly pertinent to the evaluation of the long-term performance of bentonite engineered barriers.

This paper first describes the residual density distribution after resaturation and then highlights how swelling behaviour can be studied and evaluated based on elasto-plastic theory. The conceptual understanding is that the buffer does not swell to achieve an entirely homogeneous density, but will reach an equilibrium state with a remaining gradient.
P2Y2 receptors regulate osteoblast mechanosensitivity during fluid flow
Authors: Gardinier Joseph , Yang Weidong , Madden Gregory R. , Kronbergs Andris , Gangadharan Vimal , Adams Elizabeth , Czymmek Kirk , Duncan Randall L.
Published: April 2014

Mechanical stimulation of osteoblasts activates many cellular mechanisms including the release of ATP. Binding of ATP to purinergic receptors is key to load-induced osteogenesis. Osteoblasts also respond to fluid shear stress (FSS) with increased actin stress fiber formation (ASFF) that we postulate is in response to activation of the P2Y2 receptor (P2Y2R). Furthermore, we predict that ASFF increases cell stiffness and reduces the sensitivity to further mechanical stimulation. We found that small interfering RNA (siRNA) suppression of P2Y2R attenuated ASFF in response to FSS and ATP treatment. In addition, RhoA GTPase was activated within 15 min after the onset of FSS or ATP treatment and mediated ASFF following P2Y2R activation via the Rho kinase (ROCK)1/LIM kinase 2/cofilin pathway. We also observed that ASFF in response to FSS or ATP treatment increased the cell stiffness and was prevented by knocking down P2Y2R. Finally, we confirmed that the enhanced cell stiffness and ASFF in response to RhoA GTPase activation during FSS drastically reduced the mechanosensitivity of the osteoblasts based on the intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) response to consecutive bouts of FSS. These data suggest that osteoblasts can regulate their mechanosensitivity to continued load through P2Y2R activation of the RhoA GTPase signaling cascade, leading to ASFF and increased cell stiffness.
Ultrastructure of mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum in renal tubules of Dahl salt-sensitive rats
Authors: He Xiaofeng , Liu Yong , Usa Kristie , Tian Zhongmin , Cowley Allen W. , Liang Mingyu
Published: April 2014

Metabolic and functional abnormalities in the kidney precede or coincide with the initiation of overt hypertension in the Dahl salt-sensitive (SS) rat. However, renal histological injury in SS rats is mild before the development of overt hypertension. We performed electron microscopy analysis in 7-wk-old SS rats and salt-insensitive consomic SS.13BN rats and Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats fed a 4% NaCl diet for 7 days. Long mitochondria (>2 μm) accounted for a significantly smaller fraction of mitochondria in medullary thick ascending limbs in SS rats (4% ± 1%) than in SS.13BN rats (8% ± 1%, P < 0.05 vs. SS rats) and SD rats (9% ± 1%, P < 0.01 vs. SS rats), consistent with previous findings of mitochondrial functional insufficiency in the medulla of SS rats. Long mitochondria in proximal tubules, however, were more abundant in SS rats than in SS.13BN and SD rats. The width of the endoplasmic reticulum, an index of endoplasmic reticulum stress, was significantly greater in medullary thick ascending limbs of SS rats (107 ± 1 nm) than in SS.13BN rats (95 ± 2 nm, P < 0.001 vs. SS rats) and SD rats (74 ± 3 nm, P < 0.01 vs. SS or SS.13BN rats). The tubules examined were indistinguishable between rat strains under light microscopy. These data indicate that ultrastructural abnormalities occur in the medullary thick ascending limbs of SS rats before the development of histological injury in renal tubules, providing a potential structural basis contributing to the subsequent development of overt hypertension.
Plasticity of GABAAreceptor-mediated neurotransmission in the nucleus accumbens of alcohol-dependent rats
Authors: Liang Jing , Lindemeyer A. Kerstin , Suryanarayanan Asha , Meyer Edward M. , Marty Vincent N. , Ahmad S. Omar , Shao Xuesi Max , Olsen Richard W. , Spigelman Igor
Published: April 2014

Chronic alcohol exposure-induced changes in reinforcement mechanisms and motivational state are thought to contribute to the development of cravings and relapse during protracted withdrawal. The nucleus accumbens (NAcc) is a key structure of the mesolimbic dopaminergic reward system and plays an important role in mediating alcohol-seeking behaviors. Here we describe the long-lasting alterations of γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptors (GABAARs) of medium spiny neurons (MSNs) in the NAcc after chronic intermittent ethanol (CIE) treatment, a rat model of alcohol dependence. CIE treatment and withdrawal (>40 days) produced decreases in the ethanol and Ro15-4513 potentiation of extrasynaptic GABAARs, which mediate the picrotoxin-sensitive tonic current ( Itonic), while potentiation of synaptic receptors, which give rise to miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs), was increased. Diazepam sensitivity of both Itonicand mIPSCs was decreased by CIE treatment. The average magnitude of Itonicwas unchanged, but mIPSC amplitude and frequency decreased and mIPSC rise time increased after CIE treatment. Rise-time histograms revealed decreased frequency of fast-rising mIPSCs after CIE treatment, consistent with possible decreases in somatic GABAergic synapses in MSNs from CIE rats. However, unbiased stereological analysis of NeuN-stained NAcc neurons did not detect any decreases in NAcc volume, neuronal numbers, or neuronal cell body volume. Western blot analysis of surface subunit levels revealed selective decreases in α1 and δ and increases in α4, α5, and γ2 GABAAR subunits after CIE treatment and withdrawal. Similar, but reversible, alterations occurred after a single ethanol dose (5 g/kg). These data reveal CIE-induced long-lasting neuroadaptations in the NAcc GABAergic neurotransmission.
Protein Sequence Classification with Improved Extreme Learning Machine Algorithms
Authors: Cao Jiuwen , Xiong Lianglin
Published: March 2014

Precisely classifying a protein sequence from a large biological protein sequences database plays an important role for developing competitive pharmacological products. Comparing the unseen sequence with all the identified protein sequences and returning the category index with the highest similarity scored protein, conventional methods are usually time-consuming. Therefore, it is urgent and necessary to build an efficient protein sequence classification system. In this paper, we study the performance of protein sequence classification using SLFNs. The recent efficient extreme learning machine (ELM) and its invariants are utilized as the training algorithms. The optimal pruned ELM is first employed for protein sequence classification in this paper. To further enhance the performance, the ensemble based SLFNs structure is constructed where multiple SLFNs with the same number of hidden nodes and the same activation function are used as ensembles. For each ensemble, the same training algorithm is adopted. The final category index is derived using the majority voting method. Two approaches, namely, the basic ELM and the OP-ELM, are adopted for the ensemble based SLFNs. The performance is analyzed and compared with several existing methods using datasets obtained from the Protein Information Resource center. The experimental results show the priority of the proposed algorithms.
Global Optimization for a Class of Nonlinear Sum of Ratios Problem
Authors: Jin Li , Hou Xue-Ping
Published: April 2014

We present a branch and bound algorithm for globally solving the sum of ratios problem. In this problem, each term in the objective function is a ratio of two functions which are the sums of the absolute values of affine functions with coefficients. This problem has an important application in financial optimization, but the global optimization algorithm for this problem is still rare in the literature so far. In the algorithm we presented, the branch and bound search undertaken by the algorithm uses rectangular partitioning and takes place in a space which typically has a much smaller dimension than the space to which the decision variables of this problem belong. Convergence of the algorithm is shown. At last, some numerical examples are given to vindicate our conclusions.
Mean‐Variance‐CvaR Model of Multiportfolio Optimization via Linear Weighted Sum Method
Authors: Elahi Younes , Abd Aziz Mohd Ismail
Published: March 2014

We propose a new approach to optimizing portfolios to mean‐variance‐CVaR (MVC) model. Although of several researches have studied the optimal MVC model of portfolio, the linear weighted sum method (LWSM) was not implemented in the area. The aim of this paper is to investigate the optimal portfolio model based on MVC via LWSM. With this method, the solution of the MVC model of portfolio as the multiobjective problem is presented. In data analysis section, this approach in investing on two assets is investigated. An MVC model of the multiportfolio was implemented in MATLAB and tested on the presented problem. It is shown that, by using three objective functions, it helps the investors to manage their portfolio better and thereby minimize the risk and maximize the return of the portfolio. The main goal of this study is to modify the current models and simplify it by using LWSM to obtain better results.
Joint Optimal Pricing and Ordering Decisions for Seasonal Products with Weather-Sensitive Demand
Authors: Fu Hongyong , Dan Bin , Sun Xiangkai
Published: March 2014

Retailers selling seasonal products often face the challenge in matching their inventory levels with uncertain market demand which is sensitive to weather conditions, such as the average seasonal temperature. Therefore, how to make the joint ordering and pricing decisions may help retailers to increase their profits. In this paper, we address the joint determination of pricing and ordering decisions in a newsvendor setting, where a retailer (newsvendor) sells the seasonal products and faces demand risk due to weather uncertainty. We show that the maximum expected profit function is continuous and concave, so the optimal solution to the retail price and order quantity exists and it is the one and only solution. In addition, we numerically investigate the impacts of related parameters on the retailer’s expected profit and the optimal pricing and ordering decisions and illustrate some useful management insights into the economic behavior of firms.
Recombinant nAG (a Salamander-Derived Protein) Decreases the Formation of Hypertrophic Scarring in the Rabbit Ear Model
Authors: Al-Qattan Mohammad M. , Abd-Al Wahed Mervat M. , Hawary Khalid , Alhumidi Ahmed A. , Shier Medhat K.
Published: March 2014

nAG (newt-Anterrior Gradient) protein is the key mediator of regrowth of amputated limbs in salamanders. In a previous work in our lab, a newnAGgene (suitable for humans) was designed and cloned. The cloned vector was transfected into primary human fibroblasts. The expression ofnAGin human primary fibroblasts was found to suppress collagen expression. The current study shows that local injection of recombinant nAG reduces scar hypertrophy in the rabbit ear model. This is associated with lower scar elevation index (SEI), lower levels of collagen I & III, higher levels of MMP1, and a higher degree of scar maturation in experimental wounds compared to controls.
Towards the Novel Reasoning among Particles in PSO by the Use of RDF and SPARQL
Authors: Fister Iztok , Yang Xin-She , Ljubič Karin , Fister Dušan , Brest Janez , Fister Iztok
Published: March 2014

The significant development of the Internet has posed some new challenges and many new programming tools have been developed to address such challenges. Today, semantic web is a modern paradigm for representing and accessing knowledge data on the Internet. This paper tries to use the semantic tools such as resource definition framework (RDF) and RDF query language (SPARQL) for the optimization purpose. These tools are combined with particle swarm optimization (PSO) and the selection of the best solutions depends on its fitness. Instead of the local best solution, a neighborhood of solutions for each particle can be defined and used for the calculation of the new position, based on the key ideas from semantic web domain. The preliminary results by optimizing ten benchmark functions showed the promising results and thus this method should be investigated further.
Perineal Distensibility Using Epi-no in Twin Pregnancies: Comparative Study with Singleton Pregnancies
Authors: Kubotani Juliana Sayuri , Moron Antonio Fernandes , Araujo Júnior Edward , Zanetti Miriam Raquel Diniz , Soares Vanessa Cardoso Marques , Elito Júnior Julio
Published: March 2014

The aims of this study were to compare perineal distensibility between women with twin and singleton pregnancies and to correlate these women’s perineal distensibility with anthropometric data. This prospective cross-sectional case-control study was conducted among nulliparous women, of whom 20 were pregnant with twins and 23 with a single fetus. Perineal distensibility was evaluated in the third trimester by means of Epi-no, which was introduced into the vagina and inflated up to the maximum tolerable limit. It was then withdrawn while inflated and its circumference was measured. The unpaired Student’s t-test was used to compare perineal distensibility in the two groups and Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) was used to correlate the pregnant women’s perineal distensibility with their anthropometric data. There was no difference in perineal distensibility between the twin group (16.51 ± 2.05 cm) and singleton group (16.13 ± 1.67 cm) (P=0.50). There was a positive correlation between perineal distensibility and abdominal circumference (r=0.36; P=0.01). The greater the abdominal circumference was, the greater the perineal distensibility was, regardless of whether the pregnancy was twin or singleton.
A Multistrategy Optimization Improved Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm
Authors: Liu Wen
Published: April 2014

Being prone to the shortcomings of premature and slow convergence rate of artificial bee colony algorithm, an improved algorithm was proposed. Chaotic reverse learning strategies were used to initialize swarm in order to improve the global search ability of the algorithm and keep the diversity of the algorithm; the similarity degree of individuals of the population was used to characterize the diversity of population; population diversity measure was set as an indicator to dynamically and adaptively adjust the nectar position; the premature and local convergence were avoided effectively; dual population search mechanism was introduced to the search stage of algorithm; the parallel search of dual population considerably improved the convergence rate. Through simulation experiments of 10 standard testing functions and compared with other algorithms, the results showed that the improved algorithm had faster convergence rate and the capacity of jumping out of local optimum faster.
Female Asthma Has a Negative Effect on Fertility: What Is the Connection?
Authors: Juul Gade Elisabeth , Thomsen Simon Francis , Lindenberg Svend , Backer Vibeke
Published: March 2014

Reproductive changes such as impaired fertility and adverse pregnancy outcomes have been related to female asthma. We recently found that time to pregnancy is prolonged in asthmatic females especially in women with moderate to severe asthma and in those above 30 years of age. Despite their reproductive difficulties the asthmatics ultimately conceived just as many biological children as healthy throughout their reproductive lives. This knowledge therefore raises questions about how asthma affects fertility pathophysiologically. The purpose of this review is to describe the existing knowledge in this field and suggest hypotheses of causal relationships, which may form the basis for future studies in this field. The aim is, in particular, in the literature to examine whether there is any evidence to suggest that the systemic inflammation that characterizes asthma, can affect fertility. The issue is potentially clinically important for asthmatic, infertile individuals and society because treatment of the general systemic inflammation associated with the asthmatic disease combined with hormone stimulation might be the optimal target for an effective infertility therapy, possibly decreasing the need for in vitro fertilization.
Indices of Paraoxonase and Oxidative Status Do Not Enhance the Prediction of Subclinical Cardiovascular Disease in Mixed-Ancestry South Africans
Authors: Macharia M. , Kengne A. P. , Blackhurst D. M. , Erasmus R. T. , Hoffmann M. , Matsha T. E.
Published: March 2014

We evaluated the association of indices of paraoxonase (PON1) and oxidative status with subclinical cardiovascular disease (CVD) in mixed-ancestry South Africans. Participants were 491 adults (126 men) who were stratified by diabetes status and body mass index (BMI). Carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) was used as a measure of subclinical CVD. Indices of PON1 and oxidative status were determined by measuring levels and activities (paraoxonase and arylesterase) of PON1, antioxidant activity (ferric reducing antioxidant power and trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity), and lipid peroxidation markers (malondialdehyde and oxidized LDL). Diabetic subjects (28.9%) displayed a significant decrease in PON1 status and antioxidant activity as well as increase in oxidized LDL and malondialdehyde. A similar profile was apparent across increasing BMI categories. CIMT was higher in diabetic than nondiabetic subjects(P<0.0001) but showed no variation across BMI categories. Overall, CIMT correlated negatively with indices of antioxidant activity and positively with measures of lipid oxidation. Sex, age, BMI, and diabetes altogether explained 29.2% of CIMT, with no further improvement from adding PON1 and/or antioxidant status indices. Though indices of PON1 and oxidative status correlate with CIMT, their measurements may not be useful for identifying subjects at high CVD risk in this population.
A Convergent Differential Evolution Algorithm with Hidden Adaptation Selection for Engineering Optimization
Authors: Hu Zhongbo , Xiong Shengwu , Fang Zhixiang , Su Qinghua
Published: March 2014

Many improved differential Evolution (DE) algorithms have emerged as a very competitive class of evolutionary computation more than a decade ago. However, few improved DE algorithms guarantee global convergence in theory. This paper developed a convergent DE algorithm in theory, which employs a self‐adaptation scheme for the parameters and two operators, that is, uniform mutation and hidden adaptation selection (haS) operators. The parameter self‐adaptation and uniform mutation operator enhance the diversity of populations and guarantee ergodicity. The haS can automatically remove some inferior individuals in the process of the enhancing population diversity. The haS controls the proposed algorithm to break the loop of current generation with a small probability. The breaking probability is a hidden adaptation and proportional to the changes of the number of inferior individuals. The proposed algorithm is tested on ten engineering optimization problems taken from IEEE CEC2011.
Chaos and Hopf Bifurcation Analysis of the Delayed Local Lengyel-Epstein System
Authors: Liu Qingsong , Lin Yiping , Cao Jingnan , Cao Jinde
Published: March 2014

The local reaction-diffusion Lengyel-Epstein system with delay is investigated. By choosingτas bifurcating parameter, we show that Hopf bifurcations occur when time delay crosses a critical value. Moreover, we derive the equation describing the flow on the center manifold; then we give the formula for determining the direction of the Hopf bifurcation and the stability of bifurcating periodic solutions. Finally, numerical simulations are performed to support the analytical results and the chaotic behaviors are observed.
Removal of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Artifacts with an Enhanced Adaptive Filtering Method: An Experimental Trial
Authors: Gong Yushun , Yu Tao , Chen Bihua , He Mi , Li Yongqin
Published: March 2014

Current automated external defibrillators mandate interruptions of chest compression to avoid the effect of artifacts produced by CPR for reliable rhythm analyses. But even seconds of interruption of chest compression during CPR adversely affects the rate of restoration of spontaneous circulation and survival. Numerous digital signal processing techniques have been developed to remove the artifacts or interpret the corrupted ECG with promising result, but the performance is still inadequate, especially for nonshockable rhythms. In the present study, we suppressed the CPR artifacts with an enhanced adaptive filtering method. The performance of the method was evaluated by comparing the sensitivity and specificity for shockable rhythm detection before and after filtering the CPR corrupted ECG signals. The dataset comprised 283 segments of shockable and 280 segments of nonshockable ECG signals during CPR recorded from 22 adult pigs that experienced prolonged cardiac arrest. For the unfiltered signals, the sensitivity and specificity were 99.3% and 46.8%, respectively. After filtering, a sensitivity of 93.3% and a specificity of 96.0% were achieved. This animal trial demonstrated that the enhanced adaptive filtering method could significantly improve the detection of nonshockable rhythms without compromising the ability to detect a shockable rhythm during uninterrupted CPR.
Alpha 1-Adrenoceptor Blocker May Improve Not Only Voiding But Also Storage Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Caused by 125I Brachytherapy for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Oyama Nobuyuki , Aoki Yoshitaka , Ito Hideaki , Miwa Yoshiji , Akino Hironobu , Sato Yoshitaka , Shioura Hiroki , Kimura Hirohiko , Yokoyama Osamu
Published: March 2014

Purpose. To assess changes in lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) within 1 year after brachytherapy in patients receiving alpha 1-adrenoceptor antagonists. Methods. We retrospectively evaluated 116 patients who underwent 125I prostate brachytherapy in our institute. Seventy-one patients were treated with a combination of external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy. Alpha 1-adrenoceptor antagonists were prescribed to all patients after brachytherapy. International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) forms and postvoid residual urine volume were recorded at all follow-up visits. Results. Forty-nine patients were given tamsulosin hydrochloride, 32 were given silodosin hydrochloride, and 35 were given naftopidil for up to 6 months after seed implantation. Patients given tamsulosin or naftopidil tended to show a higher peak IPSS and slower recovery to baseline values than those given silodosin. The patients given naftopidil showed an insufficient recovery in storage symptoms in naftopidil group in comparison with tamsulosin group at 3 months and with silodosin group at 6 and 9 months. Conclusions. In the management of LUT after brachytherapy, silodosin may provide a more favorable improvement. Silodosin and tamsulosin may have an advantage in improving not only voiding but also storage lower urinary tract symptoms after brachytherapy.
Practical Electromagnetic Disturbance Analysis on Commercial Contactless Smartcards
Authors: Ji Jaedeok , Han Dong-Guk , Jung Seokwon , Lee Sangjin , Moon Jongsub
Published: March 2014

Contactless smart cards are being widely employed in electronic passports, monetary payments, access control systems, and so forth, because of their advantages such as convenience and ease of maintenance. In this paper, we present a new side-channel attack method for contactless smart cards. This method exploits the information leakage stemming from electromagnetic disturbances (EMD). We also made a convenient and low-cost EMD reader board that performs side-channel attacks on contactless smart cards. In order to demonstrate that EMDs can become another information-leakage side channel, we have carried out side-channel analysis on a commercial contactless smart card that performs 128-bit ARIA encryptions, and we have been able to successfully find all 16 bytes of the ARIA key from the target device. From our experimental results, we conclude that the proposed EMD analysis yields better results than the conventional power analysis.
Alcohol Use, Stigmatizing/Discriminatory Attitudes, and HIV High-Risk Sexual Behaviors among Men Who Have Sex with Men in China
Authors: Liao Meizhen , Kang Dianmin , Tao Xiaorun , Bouey Jennifer Huang , Aliyu Muktar H. , Qian Yuesheng , Wang Guoyong , Sun Xiaoguang , Lin Bin , Bi Zhenqiang , Jia Yujiang
Published: March 2014

Objective. This research was conducted to assess the correlates of alcohol consumption and HIV/AIDS-related stigmatizing and discriminatory attitudes among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Shandong province, China.Methods. A cross-sectional survey provided demographics, sexual behaviors, illicit drug use, alcohol consumptions, and service utilization.Results. Of 1,230 participants, 82.8% were single, 85.7% aged <35 years, 47.2% had college or higher education, and 11.7% drank alcohol >3 times per week in the past six months. The average total score of stigmatizing and discriminatory attitude was 37.4 ± 4.4. More frequent episodes of alcohol use were independently associated with higher levels of HIV/AIDS-related stigma and discrimination, unprotected anal sex, bisexual identity, multiple male sex partners, drug use, and lower levels of education. Expressing higher levels of HIV/AIDS-related stigmatizing and discriminatory attitudes was independently associated with alcohol use, unprotected male anal sex, bisexuals, more male sex partners, commercial sex with men, and non-receipt of peer education in the past year.Conclusion. HIV/AIDS-related stigmatizing and discriminatory attitudes are common and associated with alcohol use and unprotected sex among MSM. The finding highlights the needs to develop programs that would reduce HIV/AIDS-related stigmatizing and discriminatory attitudes and strengthen alcohol use prevention and risk reduction initiatives among MSM.
Existence and Exponential Stability of Solutions for Stochastic Cellular Neural Networks with Piecewise Constant Argument
Authors: Li Xiaoai
Published: March 2014

By using the concept of differential equations with piecewise constant argument of generalized type, a model of stochastic cellular neural networks with piecewise constant argument is developed. Sufficient conditions are obtained for the existence and uniqueness of the equilibrium point for the addressed neural networks.pth moment exponential stability is investigated by means of Lyapunov functional, stochastic analysis, and inequality technique. The results in this paper improve and generalize some of the previous ones. An example with numerical simulations is given to illustrate our results.
Corneal Biomechanical Assessment Using Corneal Visualization Scheimpflug Technology in Keratoconic and Normal Eyes
Authors: Tian Lei , Huang Yi-Fei , Wang Li-Qiang , Bai Hua , Wang Qun , Jiang Jing-Jing , Wu Ying , Gao Min
Published: March 2014

Purpose. To compare the corneal biomechanical properties of keratoconic patients and age-matched controls using corneal visualization Scheimpflug technology (Corvis ST).Methods. Sixty keratoconic eyes from 47 keratoconus patients and 60 normal eyes from 60 controls were enrolled in this prospective study. Tomography and biomechanical parameters of all eyes were obtained with the Pentacam and Corvis ST, respectively. Intraocular pressure was measured using a Goldmann applanation tonometer.Results.The tomography and biomechanical parameters of the keratoconic corneas were significantly different from those of the normal corneas except for the anterior chamber angle, first applanation length, the highest concavity time, and peak distance. The deformation amplitude was the best predictive parameter (area under the curve: 0.882), with a sensitivity of 81.7%, although there was a significant overlap between keratoconic and normal corneas that ranged from 1.0 to 1.4 mm. In both the keratoconus and control groups, the deformation amplitude was negatively correlated with intraocular pressure, central corneal thickness, and corneal volume at 3 and 5 mm.Conclusions. Corvis ST offers an alternative method for measuring corneal biomechanical properties. The possibility of classifying keratoconus based on deformation amplitude deserves clinical attention.
HLA-G Dimers in the Prolongation of Kidney Allograft Survival
Authors: Ezeakile Maureen , Portik-Dobos Vera , Wu Juan , Horuzsko Daniel D. , Kapoor Rajan , Jagadeesan Muralidharan , Mulloy Laura L. , Horuzsko Anatolij
Published: March 2014

Human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) contributes to acceptance of allografts in solid organ/tissue transplantation. Most studies have determined that soluble HLA-G isoforms are systematically detected in serum/plasma of transplanted patients with significantly fewer episodes of acute and/or chronic rejection of allogeneic tissue/organ. Current models of the interactions of HLA-G and its specific receptors explain it as functioning in a monomeric form. However, in recent years, new data has revealed the ability of HLA-G to form disulfide-linked dimeric complexes with high preferential binding and functional activities. Limited data are available on the role of soluble HLA-G dimers in clinical pathological conditions. We describe here the presence of soluble HLA-G dimers in kidney transplant patients. Our study showed that a high level of HLA-G dimers in plasma and increased expression of the membrane-bound form of HLA-G on monocytes are associated with prolongation of kidney allograft survival. We also determined that the presence of soluble HLA-G dimers links to the lower levels of proinflammatory cytokines, suggesting a potential role of HLA-G dimers in controlling the accompanying inflammatory state.
Transplacental Transfer of Hepatitis B Neutralizing Antibody during Pregnancy in an Animal Model: Implications for Newborn and Maternal Health
Authors: Ma Li , Norton Malgorzata G. , Mahmood Iftekhar , Zhao Zhong , Zhong Lilin , Zhang Pei , Struble Evi B.
Published: March 2014

Despite the success of postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) of the newborn in preventing mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B virus), in non-US clinical trials, administering hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) to mothers at the end of pregnancy (in addition to passive-active PEP of the newborn) only partially improved outcomes. That is, a significant percentage of newborns became infected during their first year of life. We used a relevant animal model for human IgG transplacental transfer to study dose, time and subclass dependence of HBV neutralizing antibody (nAb) maternal, and fetal levels at the end of pregnancy. Pregnant guinea pigs received 50 or 100 IU/kg HBIGIV 2–5 days before delivery. Human total IgG, IgG subclasses, and nAb in mothers and their litters were measured. In vitro analyses of guinea pig Fc neonatal receptor binding to HBIGIV, as well as to all human IgG subclasses, were also performed. Our study showed that nAb transferred transplacentally from the pregnant guinea pigs to their litters; no transfer occurred during parturition. The amount of the transferred nAb was dose and time dependent. Thus, selection of an efficacious dose in the clinic is important: microdosing may be underdosing, particularly in cases of high viraemia.