bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential diagnosis of heavily pigmented melanocytic lesions: challenges and diagnostic approach
Authors: Aung Phyu P , Mutyambizi Kudakwashe K , Danialan Richard , Ivan Doina , Prieto Victor G
Published: November 2015

The differential diagnosis of heavily pigmented melanocytic neoplasms includes melanoma (especially animal type), melanosis of partially or completely regressed melanoma, blue naevus (BN), pigmented Spitzoid lesions, recurrent naevus, combined naevus, pigmented spindle cell naevus, epithelioid blue naevus of the Carney complex/pigmented epithelioid melanocytoma, deep penetrating naevus, hyperpigmented scar after surgery of melanoma in which there are also melanophages and hyperpigmentation due to the minocycline, a tattoo or a hyperpigmented scar. Pathologists face challenges when evaluating a pigmented lesion, especially in a small superficial biopsy, because it is difficult to access important histopathological features to differentiate benign versus malignant melanocytic lesions. The histological features that favour a diagnosis of melanoma include dimension (>6 mm), asymmetry, poor circumscription, irregular confluent nests, confluent lentiginous junctional melanocytic proliferation, lack of maturation with descent in the dermis, suprabasal pagetoid melanocytes, asymmetrical distribution of melanin pigment, cytological atypia, dermal mitotic figures, asymmetrical dermal lymphocytic infiltrate and necrosis.
Comparison of hypertension healthcare outcomes among older people in the USA and England
Authors: Marshall Alan , Nazroo James , Feeney Kevin , Lee Jinkook , Vanhoutte Bram , Pendleton Neil
Published: November 2015

Background

The USA and England have very different health systems. Comparing hypertension care outcomes in each country enables an evaluation of the effectiveness of each system.

Method

The English Longitudinal Study of Ageing and the Health and Retirement Survey are used to compare the prevalence of controlled, uncontrolled and undiagnosed hypertension within the hypertensive population (diagnosed or measured within the survey data used) aged 50 years and above in the USA and in England.

Results

Controlled hypertension is more prevalent within the hypertensive population in the USA (age 50–64: 0.53 (0.50 to 0.57) and age 65+: 0.51 (0.49 to 0.53)) than in England (age 50–64: 0.45 (0.42 to 0.48) and age 65+: 0.42 (0.40 to 0.45)). This difference is driven by lower undiagnosed hypertension in the USA (age 50–64: 0.18 (0.15–0.21) and age 65+: 0.13 (0.12 to 0.14)) relative to England (age 50–64: 0.26 (0.24 to 0.29) and age 65+: 0.22 (0.20 to 0.24)). The prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension within the hypertensive population is very similar in the USA (age 50–64: 0.29 (0.26 to 0.32) and age 65+: 0.36 (0.34 to 0.38)) and England (age 50–64: 0.29 (0.26 to 0.32) and age 65+: 0.36 (0.34 to 0.39)). Hypertension care outcomes are comparable across US insurance categories. In both countries, undiagnosed hypertension is positively correlated with wealth (ages 50–64). Uncontrolled hypertension declines with rising wealth in the USA.

Conclusions

Different diagnostic practices are likely to drive the cross-country differences in undiagnosed hypertension. US government health systems perform at least as well as private healthcare and are more equitable in the distribution of care outcomes. Higher undiagnosed hypertension among the affluent may reflect less frequent medical contact.
Small prizes increased healthful school lunch selection in a Midwestern school district
Authors: Siegel Robert , Lockhart Mary Kate , Barnes Allison S. , Hiller Elizabeth , Kipp Roger , Robison Debora L. , Ellsworth Samantha C. , Hudgens Michelle E.
Published: November 2015

As obesity has become a pressing health issue for American children, greater attention has been focused on how schools can be used to improve how students eat. Previously, we piloted the use of small prizes in an elementary school cafeteria to improve healthful food selection. We hoped to increase healthful food selection in all the elementary schools of a small school district participating in the United States Department of Agriculture Lunch Program by offering prizes to children who selected a Power Plate (PP), which consisted of an entrée with whole grains, a fruit, a vegetable, and plain low-fat milk. In this study, the PP program was introduced to 3 schools sequentially over an academic year. During the kickoff week, green, smiley-faced emoticons were placed by preferred foods, and children were given a prize daily if they chose a PP on that day. After the first week, students were given a sticker or temporary tattoo 2 days a week if they selected a PP. Combining data from the 3 schools in the program, students increased PP selection from 4.5% at baseline to 49.4% (p < 0.0001) during an intervention period of 2.5 school weeks. The school with the longest intervention period, 6 months, showed a PP selection increase of from 3.9% to 26.4% (p < 0.0001). In conclusion, giving small prizes as rewards dramatically improves short-term healthful food selection in elementary school children.
Electrodeposition of metal cations from the wet ionic liquid [EMIM][TFSI]
Authors: Deen Matthew , Shamshoom Christina , Gamble Alison , Bejan Dorin , Bunce Nigel J.
Published: November 2015

We investigated the deposition of silver, copper, and lead from the ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide [EMIM][TFSI] under potentiostatic conditions in the presence of water. This was part of a larger project involving the extraction of metal ions from mining waste into an ionic liquid followed by electrodeposition so that the ionic liquid could be recycled. All three elements were deposited in metallic form by electrolysis in the ionic liquid, and the process was enhanced rather than hindered by the presence of water. The deposited metals did not adhere strongly to the cathode of the electrochemical cell, especially when Ebonex® was used as the cathode. The deposition of silver showed little temperature dependence, and at temperatures close to ambient, the ionic liquid was not adversely affected. The deposits of copper and lead gradually re-dissolved after electrodeposition, suggesting that chemical re-oxidation of these metals by air is more facile in the ionic liquid than in water. Copper showed strong evidence of formation of a Cu+ species upon reduction of Cu2+ (not seen in water); lead (Pb2+) showed evidence of a time-dependent complexation with the anions of the ionic liquid.
A hydrological approach to estimating daily glacier ablation
Authors: Jobard Sylvain , Dzikowski Marc
Published: November 2015

Reduced meltwater discharge owing to glacier retreat can have severe impacts on downstream water users. To assess these impacts, it is essential to differentiate between water from glacier melt and other sources. We propose a method for doing this on a daily time scale by applying a mixing law to electrical conductivity and proglacial discharge measurements. Daily ablation is then estimated by applying a recession law to the glacier melt component. Testing this method on summer hydrology and meteorology measurements from the Baounet Glacier (France) taken over six consecutive years (2008–2013) allowed us to reconstruct daily ablation during the ablation period. Mean ablation rates ranged from 20 to 30 mm·day−1. Air temperature measurements showed that periods of low ablation during the summer were linked to cooler days and snowfall periods. Comparisons for three consecutive summers showed that the ablation rates obtained by summing calculated daily ablation were statistically similar to the rates recorded by ablation stakes.
Larotonda spaces: Homogeneous spaces and conditional expectations
Authors: Andruchow Esteban , Recht Lázaro
Published: November 2015

We define a Larotonda space as a quotient space [Formula: see text] of the unitary groups of [Formula: see text]-algebras [Formula: see text] with a faithful unital conditional expectation [Formula: see text] In particular, [Formula: see text] is complemented in [Formula: see text], a fact which implies that [Formula: see text] has [Formula: see text] differentiable structure, with the topology induced by the norm of [Formula: see text]. The conditional expectation also allows one to define a reductive structure (in particular, a linear connection) and a [Formula: see text]-invariant Finsler metric in [Formula: see text].

Given a point [Formula: see text] and a tangent vector [Formula: see text], we consider the problem of whether the geodesic [Formula: see text] of the linear connection satisfying these initial data is (locally) minimal for the metric. We find a sufficient condition. Several examples are given, of locally minimal geodesics.
How the heterogeneous infection rate effect on the epidemic spreading in activity-driven network
Authors: Han Dun , Li Dandan , Chen Chao , Sun Mei
Published: November 2015

In this paper, we research the impact of the heterogeneous infection rate on the epidemic spread in the activity-driven networks. By using the mean field approximation, the epidemic threshold is theoretically obtained. Several immunization strategies that could curb the epidemic spread are presented. Based on the theoretical analysis and simulation results, we obtain that the epidemic would be prevented effectively if the infection rate strongly correlates with the individual activity. However, if infection rate has a little correlation with the individual activity, most of the individuals may be infected. In addition, the epidemic can be suppressed soon if the individuals with high activity are immunized preferentially.
Effect of density feedback on the two-route traffic scenario with bottleneck
Authors: Sun Xiao-Yan , Ding Zhong-Jun , Huang Guo-Hua
Published: November 2015

In this paper, we investigate the effect of density feedback on the two-route scenario with a bottleneck. The simulation and theory analysis shows that there exist two critical vehicle entry probabilities [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. When vehicle entry probability [Formula: see text], four different states, i.e. free flow state, transition state, maximum current state and congestion state are identified in the system, which correspond to three critical reference densities. However, in the interval [Formula: see text], the free flow and transition state disappear, and there is only congestion state when [Formula: see text]. According to the results, traffic control center can adjust the reference density so that the system is in maximum current state. In this case, the capacity of the traffic system reaches maximum so that drivers can make full use of the roads. We hope that the study results can provide good advice for alleviating traffic jam and be useful to traffic control center for designing advanced traveller information systems.
Oscillations in interconnected complex networks under intentional attack
Authors: Zhang Wen-Ping , Xia Yongxiang , Tan Fei
Published: November 2015

Many real-world networks are interconnected with each other. In this paper, we study the traffic dynamics in interconnected complex networks under an intentional attack. We find that with the shortest time delay routing strategy, the traffic dynamics can show the stable state, periodic, quasi-periodic and chaotic oscillations, when the capacity redundancy parameter changes. Moreover, compared with isolated complex networks, oscillations always take place in interconnected networks more easily. Thirdly, in interconnected networks, oscillations are affected strongly by the coupling probability and coupling preference.
Evolution of weighted complex bus transit networks with flow
Authors: Huang Ailing , Xiong Jie , Shen Jinsheng , Guan Wei
Published: November 2015

Study on the intrinsic properties and evolutional mechanism of urban public transit networks (PTNs) has great significance for transit planning and control, particularly considering passengers’ dynamic behaviors. This paper presents an empirical analysis for exploring the complex properties of Beijing’s weighted bus transit network (BTN) based on passenger flow in L-space, and proposes a bi-level evolution model to simulate the development of transit routes from the view of complex network. The model is an iterative process that is driven by passengers’ travel demands and dual-controlled interest mechanism, which is composed of passengers’ spatio-temporal requirements and cost constraint of transit agencies. Also, the flow’s dynamic behaviors, including the evolutions of travel demand, sectional flow attracted by a new link and flow perturbation triggered in nearby routes, are taken into consideration in the evolutional process. We present the numerical experiment to validate the model, where the main parameters are estimated by using distribution functions that are deduced from real-world data. The results obtained have proven that our model can generate a BTN with complex properties, such as the scale-free behavior or small-world phenomenon, which shows an agreement with our empirical results. Our study’s results can be exploited to optimize the real BTN’s structure and improve the network’s robustness.
The dual of the space of interactions in neural network models
Authors: De Martino D.
Published: November 2015

In this work, the Gardner problem of inferring interactions and fields for an Ising neural network from given patterns under a local stability hypothesis is addressed under a dual perspective. By means of duality arguments, an integer linear system is defined whose solution space is the dual of the Gardner space and whose solutions represent mutually unstable patterns. We propose and discuss Monte Carlo methods in order to find and remove unstable patterns and uniformly sample the space of interactions thereafter. We illustrate the problem on a set of real data and perform ensemble calculation that shows how the emergence of phase dominated by unstable patterns can be triggered in a nonlinear discontinuous way.
Computer simulation for the growing probability of additional offspring with an advantageous reversal allele in the decoupled continuous-time mutation–selection model
Authors: Gill Wonpyong
Published: November 2015

This study calculated the growing probability of additional offspring with the advantageous reversal allele in an asymmetric sharply-peaked landscape using the decoupled continuous-time mutation–selection model. The growing probability was calculated for various population sizes, N, sequence lengths, L, selective advantages, s, fitness parameters, k and measuring parameters, C. The saturated growing probability in the stochastic region was approximately the effective selective advantage, [Formula: see text], when [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. The present study suggests that the growing probability in the stochastic region in the decoupled continuous-time mutation–selection model can be described using the theoretical formula for the growing probability in the Moran two-allele model. The selective advantage ratio, which represents the ratio of the effective selective advantage to the selective advantage, does not depend on the population size, selective advantage, measuring parameter and fitness parameter; instead the selective advantage ratio decreases with the increasing sequence length.
Gödel-type solution in f(R,T) modified gravity
Authors: Santos A. F. , Ferst C. J.
Published: November 2015

In this paper, we will examine the problem of violation of causality in [Formula: see text] modified gravity, where [Formula: see text] is the Ricci scalar and [Formula: see text] is the trace of the energy–momentum tensor [Formula: see text]. We investigate the causality problem in two special cases, in the first we consider the matter content of the universe as a perfect fluid and in the second case, the matter content is a perfect fluid plus a scalar field.
Once again on the Gribov horizon
Authors: Lavrov Peter M. , Radchenko Olga V.
Published: November 2015

The gauge dependence problem existing in the original Gribov–Zwanziger theory is discussed.
Active Contour Driven by Local Gaussian Distribution Fitting and Local Signed Difference Based on Local Entropy
Authors: Jiang Xiao Liang , Li Bai Lin , Yuan Jian Ying , Wu Xiao Liang
Published: November 2015

Intensity inhomogeneity often causes considerable difficulties in image segmentation. In order to tackle this problem, we propose a novel region-based active contour model in a variational level set formulation. We first define a data fitting energy with a local Gaussian distribution fitting (LGDF) term, which induces a local force to attract the contour and stops it at object boundaries, and a local signed difference (LSD) term based on local entropy, which possesses both local separability and global consistency. This energy is then incorporated into a level set formulation with a level set regularization term that is necessary for accurate computation in the corresponding level set method. Experimental results show that the proposed model can not only segment images with intensity inhomogeneities and weak boundaries but also be robust to the noise, initial contours.
Imprint of modified Einstein’s gravity on white dwarfs: Unifying Type Ia supernovae
Authors: Das Upasana , Mukhopadhyay Banibrata
Published: November 2015

We establish the importance of modified Einstein’s gravity (MG) in white dwarfs (WDs) for the first time in the literature. We show that MG leads to significantly sub- and super-Chandrasekhar limiting mass WDs, depending on a single model parameter. However, conventional WDs on approaching Chandrasekhar’s limit are expected to trigger Type Ia supernovae (SNeIa), a key to unravel the evolutionary history of the universe. Nevertheless, observations of several peculiar, under- and over-luminous SNeIa argue for the limiting mass widely different from Chandrasekhar’s limit. Explosions of MG induced sub- and super-Chandrasekhar limiting mass WDs explain under- and over-luminous SNeIa respectively, thus unifying these two apparently disjoint sub-classes. Our discovery questions both the global validity of Einstein’s gravity and the uniqueness of Chandrasekhar’s limit.
ON THE USE OF Mo/Mo2C GRADIENT INTERLAYERS IN DIAMOND DEPOSITION ONTO CEMENTED CARBIDE SUBSTRATES
Authors: GAO JIE , HEI HONGJUN , ZHENG KE , GAO XUEYAN , LIU XIAOPING , TANG BIN , HE ZHIYONG , YU SHENGWANG
Published: November 2015

Molybdenum/molybdenum carbide (Mo/Mo2C) gradient interlayers were prepared via double glow plasma surface alloying (DGPSA) technique onto cemented carbide (WC–Co) substrates for diamond deposition. The morphologies, phase composition and adhesion of the interlayers were investigated, as well as their effect on the subsequent diamond deposition. The results indicated that the Mo/Mo2C gradient interlayer deposited on WC–Co substrate was composed of 4.0-[Formula: see text]m-thick diffusion layer and 2.7-[Formula: see text]m-thick deposition layer. The Mo concentration decreased gradually with the depth direction whereas the Co and W concentrations increased. As a result, the Co binder phase was completely restricted within the substrate by the diffusion layer. The presence of gradient diffusion layer ensured excellent adhesion of the interlayer. Subsequently, nanocrystalline diamond coatings with excellent adhesion were deposited on the interlayered substrates. Thus, the Mo/Mo2C gradient interlayers deposited via DGPSA technique were demonstrated as a novel option for depositing adherent diamond coatings on WC–Co substrates.
Brownian motion on stationary random manifolds
Authors: Lessa Pablo
Published: November 2015

We introduce the notion of a stationary random manifold and develop the basic entropy theory for it. Examples include manifolds admitting a compact quotient under isometries and generic leaves of a compact foliation. We prove that the entropy of an ergodic stationary random manifold is zero if and only if the manifold satisfies the Liouville property almost surely, and is positive if and only if it admits an infinite dimensional space of bounded harmonic functions almost surely. Upper and lower bounds for the entropy are provided in terms of the linear drift of Brownian motion and average volume growth of the manifold. Other almost sure properties of these random manifolds are also studied.
Finite groups in which at least 1 3 of the elements are involutions
Authors: Amiri Seyyed Majid Jafarian , Amiri Mohsen
Published: November 2015

Let [Formula: see text] be a finite group and [Formula: see text] be the set of the elements [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we characterize all groups [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is not a 2-group.
Computing 2-dimensional algebras: Crossed modules and Cat1-algebras
Authors: Arvasi Z. , Odabaş A.
Published: November 2015

In this paper we describe a package XModAlg for GAP4 which constructs crossed modules of k-algebras and cat1-algebras over k, and their morphisms. We include a table of cat1-algebras.
Some character degree sets imply direct product
Authors: Aziziheris Kamal , Sahrayi Heidar
Published: November 2015

Let [Formula: see text] be the set of all irreducible complex characters of a finite group [Formula: see text]. In [K. Aziziheris, Determining group structure from sets of irreducible character degrees, J. Algebra 323 (2010) 1765–1782], we proved that if [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are relatively prime integers greater than [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] is prime not dividing [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] is a solvable group such that [Formula: see text], then under some conditions on [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], the group [Formula: see text] is the direct product of two normal subgroups, where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we replace [Formula: see text] by [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is an arbitrary positive integer, and we obtain similar result. As an application, we show that if [Formula: see text] is a finite group with [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text] is a direct product of two non-abelian normal subgroups.
Learning rate of magnitude-preserving regularization ranking with dependent samples
Authors: Chen Hong
Published: November 2015

The generalization analysis is key to understand the theoretical foundation of learning to rank. However, the previous works for this subject are usually based on independent and identical distributed (i.i.d) samples. In this paper, we go beyond this restriction by investigating the generalization ability of magnitude-preserving regularization ranking (MPRank) with dependent samples. For the MPRank, we establish its upper bound for the excess ranking risk which demonstrates the satisfactory learning rate can be reached for dependent samples.
On model reduction with consecutively selected rational basis
Authors: Fei Minggang , Mi Wen , Pan Yubin
Published: November 2015

In this paper, we study model reduction by using rational orthogonal bases by consecutively selecting poles for the basis functions. An algorithm modified from adaptive Fourier decomposition (AFD) in Hardy space is presented. In this algorithm, the one-by-one selection of poles makes the numerical algorithm easy to implement, which also keeps the steady-state values equal. The approximating results are comparable to other classical methods.
Small-Angle X-Ray Scattering Study on PVA/Fe3O4 Magnetic Hydrogels
Authors: Sunaryono  , Taufiq Ahmad , Putra Edy Giri Rahman , Okazawa Atsushi , Watanabe Isao , Kojima Norimichi , Rugmai Supagorn , Soontaranon Siriwat , Zainuri Mohammad , Triwikantoro  , Pratapa Suminar , Darminto
Published: November 2015

A synchrotron small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) study on PVA/Fe3O4 magnetic hydrogels has been performed to investigate the effect of clustering on their magnetic properties. The hydrogels were prepared through freezing–thawing (F–T) processes. The structure, morphology and magnetic properties of magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles (NPs) were investigated using X-ray diffractometry (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) magnetometer, respectively. In this study, SAXS data were used to reveal the structural dimensions of the magnetite and its distribution in the polymer-rich PVA and magnetic hydrogels. As calculated using the Beaucage and Teubner–Strey models, the average of the structural dimensions of the PVA hydrogels was 3.9[Formula: see text]nm (crystallites), while the average distance between crystallites was approximately 18[Formula: see text]nm. Further analysis by applying a two-lognormal distribution showed that the magnetite NPs comprised secondary particles with a diameter of 9.6[Formula: see text]nm that were structured by primary particles ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text]3.2[Formula: see text]nm). A two-lognormal distribution function has also been used in describing the size distributions of magnetite NPs in magnetic hydrogels. The clusters of magnetite NPs in the magnetic hydrogels are significantly reduced from 30.4[Formula: see text]nm to 12.8[Formula: see text]nm with decreasing concentration of the NPs magnetite from 15[Formula: see text]wt.% to 1[Formula: see text]wt.%. The saturation magnetization values of the magnetite NPs, the 15% and 1% magnetic hydrogels were 34.67[Formula: see text]emu/g, 6.52[Formula: see text]emu/g and 0.37[Formula: see text]emu/g, respectively.
Preparation of N-Doped Nanoporous Carbon from Crude Biomass and its Electrochemical Activity
Authors: Xu Zezhong , Si Jingyu
Published: November 2015

H2O2detection plays an important role in electrochemical sensing since H2O2often acts as an intermediate product or regulator in various reactions. Nanoporous carbon (NPC) can be a potential candidate in electrochemical sensing because of its high specific surface area, various pore sizes and structures. In this work, we reported the preparation of N-doped NPC derived from the highly available, accessible and recyclable plant Typha orientalis. The products have high surface area (highest surface areas of 1439.0 m2g[Formula: see text] and a number of nanopores. Highest content of nitrogen atom in the product is 3.66 at.%). Typical product exhibits high electrocatalytic activity for reduction of hydrogen peroxide. The product may have further use for glucose biosensing. We developed a low-cost, simple and readily scalable approach to prepare the excellent carbon electrocatalyst directly from crude biomass. In addition, because of high surface area and doping of nitrogen element, the product may find broad applications in the fields of supercapacitors, lithium-ion batteries, gas uptake and so on.
Synthesis and Optical Limiting Properties of Graphene Oxide/Bimetallic Nanoparticles
Authors: Cai Shuguang , Zheng Chan , Xiao Xueqing , Ye Xiaoyun
Published: November 2015

The paper was retracted as the authors have submitted the same manuscript to two completely different journals, which is seriously academic fraud and against academic ethics.
Molybdenum Trioxide Dihydrate-Graphene Composite for Electrochemical Detection of Thiourea Molecule
Authors: Zhang Xinmeng , Li Kezhi , Li Hejun , Lu Jinhua , Zhang Leilei
Published: November 2015

A novel electrochemical sensing platform was constructed based on a facile self-assembly procedure synthetic laminar molybdenum trioxide dihydrate (MoO[Formula: see text]H2O)-graphene composite. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy were employed to characterize the morphology and composition of the MoO[Formula: see text]H2O-graphene composite. As a model molecule, thiourea was utilized to investigate the electrochemical behaviors of the MoO[Formula: see text]H2O-graphene composite modified glass carbon electrode. The results show that the composite modified electrode has higher electron transfer rate than that of graphene modified electrode and bare glass carbon electrode meanwhile the peak currents of it has a good linear relationship with thiourea concentrations in the range of [Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text]) with detection limit of 4.99[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]M ([Formula: see text]). This novel electrochemical sensor exhibits a higher absorption capacity ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text]mol/cm2), a good reproducibility (1.41% relative standard deviation (RSD)), excellent anti-interference and a high stability. These excellent electrochemical properties of the MoO[Formula: see text]H2O-graphene composite are attributed to the loose and porous structure and the synergistic effects between graphene and MoO[Formula: see text]H2O, which make this composite material hold great potential applications for electrochemical sensor.
In vivosubsite classification and diagnosis of oral cancers using Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Sahu Aditi , Deshmukh Atul , Hole Arti R. , Chaturvedi Pankaj , Krishna C. Murali
Published: November 2015

Oral cancers suffer from poor disease-free survival rates due to delayed diagnosis. Noninvasive, rapid, objective approaches as adjuncts to visual inspection can help in better management of oral cancers. Raman spectroscopy (RS) has shown potential in identification of oral premalignant and malignant conditions and also in the detection of early cancer changes like cancer-field-effects (CFE) at buccal mucosa subsite. Anatomic differences between different oral subsites have also been reported using RS. In this study, anatomical differences between subsites and their possible influence on healthy vs pathological classification were evaluated on 85 oral cancer and 72 healthy subjects. Spectra were acquired from buccal mucosa, lip and tongue in healthy, contralateral (internal healthy control), premalignant and cancer conditions using fiber-optic Raman spectrometer. Mean spectra indicate predominance of lipids in healthy buccal mucosa, contribution of both lipids and proteins in lip while major dominance of protein in tongue spectra. From healthy to tumor, changes in protein secondary-structure, DNA and heme-related features were observed. Principal component linear discriminant analysis (PC-LDA) followed by leave-one-out-cross-validation (LOOCV) was used for data analysis. Findings indicate buccal mucosa and tongue are distinct entities, while lip misclassifies with both these subsites. Additionally, the diagnostic algorithm for individual subsites gave improved classification efficiencies with respect to the pooled subsites model. However, as the pooled subsites model yielded 98% specificity and 100% sensitivity, this model may be more useful for preliminary screening applications. Large-scale validation studies are a pre-requisite before envisaging future clinical applications.
What do we do when the jobs are gone, and why we must embrace active learning
Authors: Vardi Moshe Y. , Guzdial Mark
Published: November 2015

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Moshe Y. Vardi ponders the outlook for people when all work is automated, while Mark Guzdial emphasizes the importance of Active Learning in teaching computer science.
When data is not enough
Authors: Monroe Don
Published: November 2015

Reproducibility of code is increasingly crucial to verifying scientific claims.
Technology brings online education in line with campus programs
Authors: Kirkpatrick Keith
Published: November 2015

Whether sitting in front of a screen or in a classroom, online and campus-based institutions want to verify students actually attend classes, take exams.
The hyper-intelligent bandage
Authors: Mone Gregory
Published: November 2015

Scientists are developing smart, sensor-packed dressings to help heal chronic wounds.
Correlation of Lateral Cephalogram and Flexible Laryngoscopy with Sleep Study in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Narayanan Anila , Faizal Bini
Published: November 2015

Objective. To study the correlation between lateral cephalogram, flexible laryngoscopy, and sleep study in patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).Background. Screening tools should be devised for predicting OSA which could be performed on an outpatient basis. With this aim we studied the skeletal and soft tissue characteristics of proven OSA patients.Methods. A prospective study was performed in patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea by sleep study. They were evaluated clinically and subjected to lateral cephalometry and nasopharyngolaryngoscopy. The findings were matched to see if they corresponded to AHI of sleep study in severity. An attempt was made to see whether the data predicted the patients who would benefit from oral appliance or surgery as the definitive treatment in indicated cases.Results. A retropalatal collapse seen on endoscopy could be equated to the distance from mandibular plane to hyoid (MP-H) of lateral cephalometry and both corresponded to severity of AHI. At the retroglossal region, there was a significant correlation with MP-H, length of the soft palate, and AHI.Conclusion. There is significant correlation of lateral cephalogram and awake flexible nasopharyngolaryngoscopy with AHI in OSA. In unison they form an excellent screening tool for snorers.
Pupillographic Sleepiness Test and Polysomnography in Nondemented Patients with Ischemic White Matter Lesions
Authors: Landwehr Ralf , Liszka Robert
Published: November 2015

Background. Patients with ischemic white matter lesions (WML) frequently report nonrestorative sleep or daytime sleepiness. However, subjective estimations of sleep and sleepiness can differ considerably from objective measures. The pupillographic sleepiness test (PST) could identify patients with sleep disorders requiring polysomnography (PSG) and further treatment.Methods. We performed a PST and a PSG of 35 nondemented patients with WML, who reported nonrestorative sleep or daytime sleepiness, and assessed the diagnostic value of the pupillary unrest index (PUI). Sleep parameters were compared to normative data.Results. The mean PUI of WML patients was normal (5.89 mm/min) and comparable to PUIs of patients with other neurological disorders. All 9 of the 35 WML patients (25.7%) who had a PUI above normal also had clinically relevant sleep disorders (5: sleep apnea, 7: periodic leg movements, and 4: insomnia). Six patients with a normal PUI had mild to moderate primary insomnia.Conclusion. PST and PSG parameters were physiological in most patients with WML. Age-related changes and affective and neuropsychological disorders might account for their sleep-related complaints. An elevated PUI in patients with WML seems to indicate comorbid sleep disorders that require further diagnostic evaluation and treatment (sleep apnea, insomnia with periodic leg movements, but not primary insomnia).
Influence of Antioxidant-Enhanced Polymers in Bitumen Rheology and Bituminous Concrete Mixtures Mechanical Performance
Authors: Dessouky Samer , Ilias Mohammad , Park Dae-Wook , Kim In Tai
Published: November 2015

This paper evaluates the effect of polymer enhancement with antioxidant in the rheological properties of bitumen and mechanical properties of bituminous concrete mixture (BCM). In this study, two antioxidant-enhanced polymers were utilized in mitigating bitumen hardening due to aging. The rheological testing consists of temperature sweep using Dynamic Shear Rheometer at various aging conditions. Critical stiffness temperature data from the sweep test suggested that enhanced polymer exhibits less long-term hardening and brittleness compared to standard polymer. The mechanical testing consists of dynamic modulus, indirect tensile, flow number, and beam fatigue tests on BCM exposed to short-term aging. Hamburg wheel tracking test was also performed to assess moisture-damage susceptibility. It is found that the enhanced-polymer BCM exhibited higher modulus, higher tensile strength ratio, improved rutting resistance, lower moisture-damage susceptibility, and slightly increased fatigue life as compared to standard-polymer BCM.
Surgical Management of Unilateral Soft Tissue Swelling around the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint in an Adolescent: A Case Report of Pachydermodactyly
Authors: Kato Naoki , Niitsu Mamoru , Kawabe Tetsuya , Arai Eiichi , Fukumoto Keizo
Published: November 2015

Pachydermodactyly (PDD) is a rare and benign acquired form of digital fibromatosis, characterized by asymptomatic fusiform soft tissue hypertrophy of the lateral aspect of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints of the fingers. The etiology of PDD remains unknown, but it usually affects healthy males around the age of puberty. It can be misdiagnosed as inflammatory rheumatic diseases, especially as juvenile chronic arthritis. Here, we report a case of PDD in an 18-year-old man who had progressive fusiform swelling of the PIP joint on his left middle finger. Although he had no pain or functional limitation of movement, he chose to undergo surgical resection of the lesion to obtain a conclusive diagnosis and to rectify the deformity’s appearance. Histologically, the lesion was characterized by coarse fibrosis in the adipose tissue, peripheral nerve fibers, and eccrine glands; this is compatible with a diagnosis of PDD.
Clinical Investigation of Benign Asbestos Pleural Effusion
Authors: Fujimoto Nobukazu , Gemba Kenichi , Aoe Keisuke , Kato Katsuya , Yokoyama Takako , Usami Ikuji , Onishi Kazuo , Mizuhashi Keiichi , Yusa Toshikazu , Kishimoto Takumi
Published: November 2015

There is no detailed information about benign asbestos pleural effusion (BAPE). The aim of the study was to clarify the clinical features of BAPE. The criteria of enrolled patients were as follows: (1) history of asbestos exposure; (2) presence of pleural effusion determined by chest X-ray, CT, and thoracentesis; and (3) the absence of other causes of effusion. Clinical information was retrospectively analysed and the radiological images were reviewed. There were 110 BAPE patients between 1991 and 2012. All were males and the median age at diagnosis was 74 years. The median duration of asbestos exposure and period of latency for disease onset of BAPE were 31 and 48 years, respectively. Mean values of hyaluronic acid, adenosine deaminase, and carcinoembryonic antigen in the pleural fluid were 39,840 ng/mL, 23.9 IU/L, and 1.8 ng/mL, respectively. Pleural plaques were detected in 98 cases (89.1%). Asbestosis was present in 6 (5.5%) cases, rounded atelectasis was detected in 41 (37.3%) cases, and diffuse pleural thickening (DPT) was detected in 30 (27.3%) cases. One case developed lung cancer (LC) before and after BAPE. None of the cases developed malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) during the follow-up.
An Uncommon Side Effect of Bupropion: A Case of Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis
Authors: Tak Hasan , Koçak Cengiz , Sarıcı Gülben , Dizen Namdar Nazlı , Kıdır Mehtap
Published: November 2015

Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is a rare inflammatory dermatosis characterized by multiple nonfollicular pustules that occur on erythematous skin. Despite its similarity to pustular psoriasis and association with fever and leukocytosis, AGEP typically heals quickly. Etiologically, drugs and viruses have been suspected in most cases. Here, we present a case of AGEP, in a woman, that developed 1 day after starting bupropion for smoking cessation, as a rare side effect of the treatment.
Unilateral Crystalline Vitreoretinopathy: A Rare Entity Associated with Intraocular Inflammation
Authors: Harshey Kaustubh B. , Srinivasan Karthik , Rengappa Ramakrishnan , Ramasamy Kim
Published: November 2015

A 31-year-old Indian male presented with floaters and diminution of vision in the right eye. Ocular examination showed features of old anterior uveitis with posterior subcapsular cataract and fine, refractile crystals in the vitreous cavity and on the retinal surface. A thorough workup for all known causes of crystalline retinopathy was inconclusive. Unilateral crystalline retinopathy has been sparingly reported. This is the first report of unilateral, crystalline vitreoretinopathy in the absence of any demonstrable and known cause for intraocular crystals.
A Regime Switching Model of Schooling Choice as a Job Search Process
Authors: Shin Yong Hyun , Lee Ho-Seok
Published: November 2015

We propose a regime switching model of schooling choice as a job search process. We adopt a two-state Markov process and the derived coupled Bellman equations are solved by seeking the root of an auxiliary algebraic equation. Some numerical examples are also considered.
Compact Extensible Authentication Protocol for the Internet of Things: Enabling Scalable and Efficient Security Commissioning
Authors: Pawlowski Marcin Piotr , Jara Antonio J. , Ogorzalek Maciej J.
Published: November 2015

Internet of Things security is one of the most challenging parts of the domain. Combining strong cryptography and lifelong security with highly constrained devices under conditions of limited energy consumption and no maintenance time is extremely difficult task. This paper presents an approach that combines authentication and bootstrapping protocol (TEPANOM) with Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP) framework optimized for the IEEE 802.15.4 networks. The solution achieves significant reduction of network resource usage. Additionally, by application of EAP header compacting approach, further network usage savings have been reached. The EAP-TEPANOM solution has achieved substantial reduction of 42% in the number of transferred packets and 35% reduction of the transferred data. By application of EAP header compaction, it has been possible to achieve up to 80% smaller EAP header. That comprises further reduction of transferred data for 3.84% for the EAP-TEPANOM method and 10% for the EAP-TLS-ECDSA based methods. The results have placed the EAP-TEPANOM method as one of the most lightweight EAP methods from ones that have been tested throughout this research, making it feasible for large scale deployments scenarios of IoT.
Adaptive Power Saving Method for Mobile Walking Guidance Device Using Motion Context
Authors: Lee Jin-Hee , Lee Yeong-Ju , Song Minseok , Shin Byeong-Seok
Published: November 2015

It is important to recognize the motion of the user and the surrounding environment with multiple sensors. We developed a guidance system based on mobile device for visually impaired person that helps the user to walk safely to the destination in the previous study. However, a mobile device having multiple sensors spends more power when the sensors are activated simultaneously and continuously. We propose a method for reducing the power consumption of a mobile device by considering the motion context of the user. We analyze and classify the user’s motion accurately by means of a decision tree and HMM (Hidden Markov Model) that exploit the data from a triaxial accelerometer sensor and a tilt sensor. We can reduce battery power consumption by controlling the number of active ultrasonic sensors and the frame rate of the camera used to acquire spatial context around the user. This helps us to extend the operating time of the device and reduce the weight of the device’s built-in battery.
Knowledge and Perceptions of Latent Tuberculosis Infection among Chinese Immigrants in a Canadian Urban Centre
Authors: Gao Jie , Berry Nicole S. , Taylor Darlene , Venners Scott A. , Cook Victoria J. , Mayhew Maureen
Published: November 2015

Background. Since most tuberculosis (TB) cases in immigrants to British Columbia (BC), Canada, develop from latent TB infection (LTBI), treating immigrants for LTBI can contribute to the eradication of TB. However, adherence to LTBI treatment is a challenge that is influenced by knowledge and perceptions. This research explores Chinese immigrants’ knowledge and perceptions towards LTBI in Greater Vancouver.Methods. This mixed methods study included a cross-sectional patient survey at BC’s Provincial TB clinics and two focus group discussions (FGDs) with Chinese immigrants. Data from FGDs were coded and analyzed in Simplified Chinese. Codes, themes, and selected quotes were then translated into English.Results. The survey identified a mean basic knowledge score: 40.0% (95% CI: 38.3%, 41.7%). FGDs confirmed that Chinese immigrants’ knowledge of LTBI was low, and they confused it with TB disease to the extent of experiencing LTBI associated stigma. Participants also expressed difficulties navigating the health system which impeded testing and treatment of LTBI. Online videos were the preferred format for receiving health information.Conclusion. We identified striking gaps in knowledge surrounding an LTBI diagnosis. Concerns of stigma may influence acceptance and adherence of LTBI treatment in Chinese immigrants. Integrating these findings into routine health care is recommended.
Protocol for Bone Augmentation with Simultaneous Early Implant Placement: A Retrospective Multicenter Clinical Study
Authors: Fairbairn Peter , Leventis Minas
Published: November 2015

Purpose.To present a novel protocol for alveolar bone regeneration in parallel to early implant placement.Methods.497 patients in need of extraction and early implant placement with simultaneous bone augmentation were treated in a period of 10 years. In all patients the same specific method was followed and grafting was performed utilizingin situhardening fully resorbable alloplastic grafting materials consisting ofβ-tricalcium phosphate and calcium sulfate. The protocol involved atraumatic extraction, implant placement after 4 weeks with simultaneous bone augmentation, and loading of the implant 12 weeks after placement and grafting. Follow-up periods ranged from 6 months to 10 years (mean of 4 years).Results.A total of 601 postextraction sites were rehabilitated in 497 patients utilizing the novel protocol. Three implants failed before loading and three implants failed one year after loading, leaving an overall survival rate of99.0%.Conclusions.This standardized protocol allows successful long-term functional results regarding alveolar bone regeneration and implant rehabilitation. The concept of placing the implant 4 weeks after extraction, augmenting the bone around the implant utilizing fully resorbable, biomechanically stable, alloplastic materials, and loading the implant at 12 weeks seems to offer advantages when compared with traditional treatment modalities.
Traveling Wave Solutions of a Generalized Camassa-Holm Equation: A Dynamical System Approach
Authors: Zhang Lina , Song Tao
Published: November 2015

We investigate a generalized Camassa-Holm equationC(3,2,2):ut+kux+γ1uxxt+γ2(u3)x+γ3ux(u2)xx+γ3u(u2)xxx=0. We show that theC(3,2,2)equation can be reduced to a planar polynomial differential system by transformation of variables. We treat the planar polynomial differential system by the dynamical systems theory and present a phase space analysis of their singular points. Two singular straight lines are found in the associated topological vector field. Moreover, the peakon, peakon-like, cuspon, smooth soliton solutions of the generalized Camassa-Holm equation under inhomogeneous boundary condition are obtained. The parametric conditions of existence of the single peak soliton solutions are given by using the phase portrait analytical technique. Asymptotic analysis and numerical simulations are provided for single peak soliton, kink wave, and kink compacton solutions of theC(3,2,2)equation.