bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health‐related quality of life, social support, and caregiver burden between six and 120 months after heart transplantation: a Spanish multicenter cross‐sectional study
Authors: Delgado J.F. , Almenar L. , González‐Vilchez F. , Arizón J.M. , Gómez M. , Fuente L. , Brossa V. , Fernández J. , Díaz B. , Pascual D. , Lage E. , Sanz M. , Manito N. , Crespo‐Leiro M.G.
Published: June 2015

A multicenter cross‐sectional study was conducted to determine the current heart transplant (HTx) outcomes in Spain. Clinical and functional status, health‐related quality of life (HRQoL), social support, and caregiver burden were analyzed in 303 adult transplant recipients (77.9% males) living with one functioning graft. Mean age at time of HTx (SD) was 56.4 (11.4) years, and the reason for transplantation in all patients was congestive heart failure. All patients had received a first heart transplant 6 (±1), 12 (±2), 36 (±6), 60 (±10), or 120 (±20) months previously. Participants completed the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ), the EQ‐5D, the Duke‐UNC Functional Social Support Questionnaire, and the Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale. Reasonable HRQoL, social support, and caregiver burden levels were found at all time points, although a slight decrease in HRQoL was recorded at 120 months (p ≤ 0.033). Multivariate regression analyses showed that complications, comorbidities, and hospitalizations were associated with HRQoL (EQ‐5D: 48.4% of explained variance, F4,164 = 38.46, p < 0.001; KCCQ overall summary score: 45.0%, F3,198 = 54.073, p < 0.001). Patient functional capabilities and complications affected caregiver burden (p < 0.05). In conclusion, HTx patients reported reasonable levels of HRQoL with low caregiver burden. Clinical variables related to these outcomes included functional status, complications, and number of admissions.
Prevalence of several herpesviruses and human papillomavirus in acute apical abscesses
Authors: Ozbek S. M. , Ozbek A. , Demiray T.
Published: June 2015

Aim

To investigate and compare the radiographic size of acute apical abscess lesions for the presence of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), human herpesvirus‐6 (HHV‐6) and human papillomaviruses (HPV) DNA by means of the real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method.

Methodology

According to the radiographic size of acute apical abscess lesions, 11 lesions were categorized as large (≥5 mm) and 10 lesions as small (<5 mm). DNA extracts from purulent exudate aspirates of 21 cases of acute apical abscess and 10 control samples were evaluated for the presence of viral loads using real‐time PCR methods following the kit protocols recommended by the manufacturers. Statistical analysis was performed using chi‐squared test with Yates's correction and Fisher's exact test.

Results

HCMV DNA was detected in 27% of large and in 10% of small abscess lesions. EBV was identified in 18% of large and in 10% of small abscess lesions. HPV and HHV‐6 DNA were found in 9% of large abscess lesions. None of the small abscess lesions contained HPV or HHV‐6 DNA. Viral coinfections were found in two samples as the pair of HCMV/EBV and HCMV/HHV‐6 from large abscess lesions. No significant associations were found between any of the target viruses and size of periapical lesions. As for the healthy pulps used as noninflamed controls, no control specimens contained viral DNA.

Conclusions

HCMV was the most frequent herpesvirus amongst the target viruses in samples from both large and small apical abscess lesions. In large lesions, EBV and HHV‐6 tended to occur in coinfection with HCMV. Additional studies are required to elucidate the role of herpesviruses in the pathogenesis of periapical abscess.
The effects of various mixing solutions on the biocompatibility of mineral trioxide aggregate
Authors: Karygianni L. , Proksch S. , Schneider S. , Vach K. , Hellwig E. , Steinberg T. , Schulz S. D. , Tchorz J. P. , Altenburger M. J.
Published: June 2015

Aim

To evaluate the effects of various mixing solutions on the biocompatibility of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA).

Methodology

Human alveolar osteoblasts (hOAs) were incubated with eluates of 24 h‐set cement discs of MTA mixed with sterile H2O, 3% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), 4% articaine (Ultracain® D‐S), 0.9% NaCl, Ringer's solution or citrated blood, respectively. The cell proliferation in the presence of eluates was assessed by real‐time cell analysis, and the expression of genes associated with proliferation (histone H3, HistH3), inflammation (interleukin‐6, IL‐6, matrix metalloproteinases 1 and 3, MMP1, MMP3) or apoptosis (caspase 3, Casp3) was analysed by qPCR after 24 and 72 h. The ultrastructure of cells grown on cement discs was visualized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), whilst actin cytoskeleton was monitored by fluorescence staining in the presence of eluates after 7 and 14 days. A repeated‐measure analysis was performed, and P‐values were adjusted by Tukey.

Results

Whilst articaine‐MTA sustained hOA proliferation patterns similar to H2O‐MTA, NaOCl‐MTA reduced hOA proliferation and significantly increased the expression of MMP1 and MMP3. The addition of H2O and articaine modulated the gene expression of Casp3 or Hist3H3. The use of NaCl, Ringer and blood induced mRNA levels comparable to matched controls. With the exception of NaOCl‐MTA, SEM and FM revealed regular hOA morphology for all mixing solutions.

Conclusions

NaOCl was highly cytotoxic for hOAs whilst all other mixing solutions can be considered as convenient biocompatible mixing solutions as alternatives to H2O for clinical use.
Principles‐Based versus Rules‐Based Auditing Standards: The Effect of the Transition from AS2 to AS5
Authors: Sin Fang Yun , Moroney Robyn , Strydom Maria
Published: June 2015

The transition from a rules‐based auditing standard (AS2) to a principles‐based auditing standard (AS5) provides a context to assess how such a change impacts audit outcomes. Under a rules‐based auditing standard, audit processes are relatively uniform, unscaleable and include significant redundancy. Under a principles‐based auditing standard, audit effort can be directed to where risk is greatest; audits are scalable and can be customized. We find that the post‐SOX shedding of risky clients by the Big 4 meant that non‐Big 4 clients were more likely than Big 4 clients to disclose material internal control weaknesses (MICWs) when assured under AS2. This gap narrowed significantly following the transition to AS5, when risk‐based customized audits were possible which benefited Big 4 firms to a greater extent than non‐Big 4 firms.
Getting Our ACT Together
Authors: Gore Katrina , Stanley Phil
Published: June 2015

Results that cannot be replicated during drug trials cost pharma companies millions. Katrina Gore and Phil Stanley describe a tool developed by Pfizer to improve the quality of preclinical study design and analysis
Perception of young adults with sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait about participation in the CHOICES randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hershberger Patricia E. , Gallo Agatha M. , Molokie Robert , Thompson Alexis A. , Suarez Marie L. , Yao Yingwei , Wilkie Diana J.
Published: June 2015

Aims

To gain an in‐depth understanding of the perceptions of young adults with sickle cell disease and sickle cell trait about parenthood and participating in the CHOICES randomized controlled trial that used computer‐based, educational programmes.

Background

In the USA, there is insufficient education to assure that all young adults with sickle cell disease or sickle cell trait understand genetic inheritance risks and reproductive options to make informed reproductive decisions. To address this educational need, we developed a computer‐based, multimedia program (CHOICES) and reformatted usual care into a computer‐based (e‐Book) program. We then conducted a two‐year randomized controlled trial that included a qualitative component that would deepen understanding of young adults’ perceptions of parenthood and use of computer‐based, educational programmes.

Design

A qualitative descriptive approach completed after a randomized controlled trial.

Methods

Sixty‐eight men and women of childbearing age participated in semi‐structured interviews at the completion of the randomized controlled trial from 2012–2013. Thematic content analysis guided the qualitative description.

Results/findings

Three main themes were identified: (1) increasing knowledge and new ways of thinking and behaving; (2) rethinking parenting plans; and (3) appraising the program design and delivery. Most participants reported increased knowledge and rethinking of their parenting plans and were supportive of computer‐based learning. Some participants expressed difficulty in determining individual transmission risks.

Conclusion

Participants perceived the computer programs as beneficial to their learning. Future development of an Internet‐based educational programme is warranted, with emphasis on providing tailored education or memory boosters about individual transmission risks.
Changes in use, knowledge, beliefs and attitudes relating to tobacco among nursing and physiotherapy students: a 10‐year analysis
Authors: Ordás Beatriz , Fernández Daniel , Ordóñez Cesar , Marqués‐Sánchez Pilar , Álvarez Maria Jose , Martínez Santiago , Pinto Arrate
Published: June 2015

Aim

To analyse changes in prevalence, knowledge, beliefs and attitudes relating to smoking among undergraduate nursing and physiotherapy students over a 10‐year period.

Background

Few studies have been performed to describe changes in the use of tobacco and associated characteristics.

Design

This study was a sequential cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A self‐administered survey was performed during three academic years among nursing and physiotherapy students in a Spanish Faculty of Health Sciences.

Findings

The proportion of smokers among nursing and physiotherapy students in 2003, 2008 and 2013 was 29·3%, 24·7% and 18·2% respectively. The ages when participants first smoked did not vary over the years. The Fagerström test showed low nicotine dependence. A significantly high percentage of students stated they were unaware of the link between smoking and bladder cancer and oral leukoplakia. Students declared they were unaware of the association between under‐weight new‐borns and second‐hand smoke. The majority of students recognized that healthcare professionals were role models in society, there being little variation over the years studied. In relation to education and training, the study showed a need to inform students about methods and strategies to help people quit smoking.

Conclusions

The prevalence of smoking among nursing and physiotherapy students decreased over the ten years. Active programmes should be implemented to encourage those university students who smoke to break this habit. The decline over the years in knowledge about smoking provided evidence of a significant deficit in undergraduate training.
The Question of the Holocaust's Uniqueness: Was it Something More Than or Different From Genocide?
Authors: Pleasants Nigel
Published: June 2015

Dating back to the very beginning of our knowledge of the events that constituted the Holocaust, some historians, social scientists, philosophers, theologians and public intellectuals argue that it was a unique historical, or even trans‐historical, event. The aim of this article is to clarify what the uniqueness question should be about and to ascertain whether there are good reasons for judging that the Holocaust is unique. It examines the core meanings of ‘unique’ that feature in the literature and identifies which of these is most apt for considering the possible uniqueness of the Holocaust. It then works out what it would take for the Holocaust to be unique in the appropriately rigorous sense, which is facilitated by inquiring into the nature of genocide. The key question turns on the relation of the Holocaust to genocide: was the Holocaust more than, or different from, genocide?
Surgical Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: ABO‐SALEM ELSAYED , LOCKWOOD DEBORAH , BOERSMA LUCAS , DENEKE THOMAS , PISON LAURENT , PAONE RALPH F. , NUGENT KENNETH M.
Published: June 2015

Surgical Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common chronic arrhythmia in the adult population. Ablation lines have largely replaced the historical and challenging cut and sew techniques. Surgical ablation of AF is commonly performed in cases with other indications for cardiac surgery and less commonly as a stand‐alone therapy. Pulmonary vein isolation is the cornerstone of this procedure. Extended left atrial ablation lines may increase efficacy in cases with longstanding persistent or permanent AF. Additional efficacy by adding right atrial ablation is controversial but is often performed in cases undergoing right atrial or atrial septal surgery. Left atrial volume reduction is recommended in cases with large left atria and AF undergoing another cardiac surgery. Arrhythmia recurrence is not uncommon after surgical ablation of AF and varies among studies due to heterogeneity in patient population, lesion set and endpoints. Freedom from AF recurrence was 65–87% at 12 months and 58–70% at 2 years follow‐up. Long‐term monitoring is recommended due to an increased prevalence of asymptomatic recurrences. The strongest predictors of AF recurrence are longstanding or persistent AF and a large left atrium. The most common mechanisms of recurrence are pulmonary vein reconnection, nonpulmonary vein triggers, and gaps in the ablation lines. About 20% of atrial tachyarrhythmia recurrences are atrial flutter or atrial tachycardia. There are not enough data in the surgical literature to support withdrawal of anticoagulation after surgical AF ablation. Patients selected for stand‐alone surgical ablation usually have low risk profiles and low postoperative mortality rates (0.2%).
Left Ventricular Mass as a Risk Factor in the Oldest Old
Authors: Bursztyn Michael , Leibowitz David , Stessman‐Lande Irit , Jacobs Jeremy M. , Ein‐Mor Eliana , Stessman Jochanan
Published: June 2015

In middle‐aged and “young elderly” cohorts, higher left ventricular mass (LVM) is associated with worse outcomes. The authors examinedLVMand 5‐year mortality among community‐dwelling 85‐year‐old patients. A representative sample (n=526, born 1920–1921) from the Jerusalem Longitudinal Cohort Study underwent echocardiography at age 85.LVMwas indexed by body surface area (LVM‐BSA) or height (LVM‐Ht). Patients with higherLVMwere less educated and sedentary and had poorer self‐rated health, functional limitations, and increased comorbidity. Five‐year mortality was 21.7% (n=114). Adjusted 5‐year mortality rates were increased for the two upper quintiles ofLVM‐BSA(hazard ratio [HR], 1.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05–3.06) andLVM‐Ht (HR, 2.2; 95%CI, 1.2–3.5). A step up in mortality occurred around the third quintile corresponding withLVM‐BSA110 g/m2orLVM‐Ht 51 g/m2.7. Among the oldest old, elevatedLVMis significantly associated with mortality.
High levels of Porphyromonas gingivalis‐induced immunoglobulin G2 are associated with lower high‐density lipoprotein levels in chronic periodontitis
Authors: Ardila Carlos M. , Guzmán Isabel C.
Published: June 2015

Objective

To investigate the association between the presence of Porphyromonas gingivalis‐induced immunoglobulin G antibodies and the high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) level.

Methods

A total of 108 individuals were examined. The presence of P. gingivalis was detected using primers designed to target the 16S rRNA gene sequence. Peripheral blood was collected from each subject to determine the levels of P. gingivalis‐induced IgG1 and IgG2 serum antibodies. The HDL levels were determined using fully enzymatic methods.

Results

A higher proportion of periodontitis patients had high levels of P. gingivalis‐induced IgG1 and IgG2, and the proportion of subjects with a HDL level of < 35 md/dL was higher in the group of chronic periodontitis patients. In the unadjusted regression model, the presence of high levels of P. gingivalis‐induced IgG2 was associated with a HDL level of < 35 md/dL. The adjusted model indicated that periodontitis patients with high levels of P. gingivalis‐induced IgG2 showed 3.2 more chances of having pathological HDL levels (odds ratio = 3.2, 95% confidence interval = 1.2–9.8).

Conclusion

High levels of P. gingivalis‐induced IgG2 were associated with low HDL concentrations in patients with periodontitis, which suggests that the response of the host to periodontal infection may play an important role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases.
Addressing the Confusion Related to DNS, DNSc, and DSN Degrees, With Lessons for the Nursing Profession
Authors: Reid Ponte Patricia , Nicholas Patrice K.
Published: June 2015

Purpose

This article examines the evolution of Doctor of Nursing Science (DNS or DNSc) and Doctor of Science in Nursing (DSN) degrees, including their emergence as research‐intensive doctoral degrees in the 1960s, efforts to distinguish the degrees from the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees, the recent decline in program numbers, and implications for degree holders.

Approach

The article reviews the U.S. history of doctoral education in nursing, research examining similarities and differences between the PhD and DNS, DNSc, or DSN degrees, and how the DNS, DNSc, or DSN
degree differs from DNP programs. The article also examines the confusion regarding the focus of the DNS, DNSc, or DSN degree among nurses, patients, and potential funders; and describes actions taken by universities to address the confusion, with examples provided by academic deans, nurse leaders, and nurse researchers.

Findings

Longstanding confusion about the research merits of the DNS, DNSc, or DSN degree, and the growing prominence of the similarly‐titled DNP degree, has created confusion about the focus of DNS, DNSc, or DSN programs and the capabilities of degree holders. Many universities have addressed this confusion by converting their DNS, DNSc, and DSN programs to a PhD or retroactively converting degrees to a PhD. Other universities have chosen not to pursue this route.

Conclusions

The DNS, DNSc, or DSN experience highlights the importance of clarifying and standardizing the purpose and goals of nursing education programs and the repercussions for degree holders when such clarity is lacking. The international academic nursing communities have consistently pursued one doctoral‐level nursing degree and therefore have not shared this challenging landscape in nursing education.

Clinical Relevance

Findings and recommendations presented in this article have implications for schools of nursing and professional groups that oversee the development of educational programs and pathways for nurses.
Health Care Competition and Antibiotic Use in Taiwan
Authors: Bennett Daniel , Hung Che‐Lun , Lauderdale Tsai‐Ling
Published: June 2015

Antibiotic resistance, a negative externality of antibiotic use, is a growing threat to public health. Health care competition may encourage antibiotic use because receiving an antibiotic is a form of ‘quality’ for many patients. This paper examines the effect of market concentration on antibiotic use in a large, nationally‐representative data set from Taiwan. Moving from the 75th percentile to the 25th percentile of market concentration is associated with 6.6 per cent greater antibiotic use. We control for leading market‐level confounds, including population density and community health. We also show that the correlation is robust using fixed effects for patients, physicians and diagnoses. We document the correlation between antibiotic use and patient retention, which suggests a mechanism for this result. Finally, we show that strict regulation of antibiotics reduces but does not eliminate the effect of competition on antibiotic use.
Responsible Accounting for Stakeholders
Authors: Harrison Jeffrey S. , van der Laan Smith Joyce
Published: June 2015

Through a critique of existing financial theory underlying current accounting practices, and reapplication of this theory to a broad group of stakeholders, this paper lays a normative foundation for a revised perspective on the responsibility of the public accounting profession. Specifically, we argue that the profession should embrace the development of standards for reporting information important to a broader group of stakeholders than just investors and creditors. The FASB has recently moved in the opposite direction. Nonetheless, an institution around accounting for stakeholders continues to grow, backed by a groundswell of support from many sources. Based on institutional theory, we predict that this institution and the forces supporting it will cause changes in the public accounting profession, even if through coercion. We also provide examples of stakeholder accounting, building from the premise that a primary responsibility of accounting is to provide information to address the risk management needs of stakeholders.
Quantitative Mapping of Human Brain Vertical‐Occipital Fasciculus
Authors: Keser Zafer , Ucisik‐Keser Fehime Eymen , Hasan Khader M.
Published: June 2015

PURPOSE

The vertical‐occipital fasciculus (VOF), historically named as “the fasciculus occipitalis verticalis of Wernicke,” has been recently brought to the attention of the neuroscience community. In this study, we delineated and quantified this tract with deterministic diffusion tensor imaging protocol.

METHODS

Five (all males aged 24‐37 years) and 10 (7 males and 3 females aged 20‐51 years) right‐handed healthy subjects were studied with 1 and 2 mm DT‐MRI data sets, respectively. The DTI attributes of this pathway along with its cortical representation (Brodmann areas) were presented in standard Montréal Neurological Institute space. Nearby pathways such as inferior fronto‐occipital (IFOF) and inferior longitudinal fasciculi (ILF) were used as reference pathways.

RESULTS

The total volume of VOF has been found to be approximately .8‐1% of whole brain in both data sets. The fractional anisotropy and axial diffusivity of this tract have been found to be relatively 10‐15% lower than adjacent pathways such as IFOF and ILF in both data sets. Although IFOF and ILF showed somewhat leftward asymmetry in diffusivity, no right‐left asymmetry has been observed in VOF.

CONCLUSION

We believe that our work will pave the way for future imaging studies investigating VOF in different conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, and multiple sclerosis.
First Report of Botryosphaeria dothidea on Mangifera indica L. in Gujarat
Authors: Rabari Vijya , Rakhashiya Purvi , Patel Pooja , Thaker Vrinda
Published: June 2015

A leaf spot disease was observed on Mangifera indica L. located in the region of Rajkot, Gujarat, India. The symptoms included the appearance of small, circular to oval dark brown necrotic sunken spots on the leaves. The fungus formed grey to dark grey on potato dextrose agar and conidia were single‐celled, ovoid or oblong. On the basis of mycological characteristics, pathogenicity test and molecular identification using 28S rDNA sequence and internal transcribed spacer (ITS), the fungus was identified as Botryosphaeria dothidea. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of leaf spot on M. indica tree caused by Botryoshaeria dothidea in Gujarat, India.
Two New Methods for Solving the Path‐Based Stochastic User Equilibrium Problem
Authors: Zhou Bojian , Bliemer Michiel C. J. , Bell Michael G. H. , He Jie
Published: June 2015

In this article, we present two new methods for the path‐based logit stochastic user equilibrium problem, and investigate their convergence properties. First, a two‐level partial linearization method is proposed. Second, a dual method is developed. Both of these two methods use second‐order approximation of the objective function. Our novel methods are compared to Damberg's partial linearization method (Damberg, 1996), which is known to be one of the best performing methods. Numerical results on the different networks show that, if properly scaled, our new methods compare favorably to Damberg's method.
Feasibility study of an attention training application for older adults
Authors: Hill Nikki L. , Mogle Jacqueline , Colancecco Elise , Dick Robert , Hannan John , Lin Feng Vankee
Published: June 2015

Background

Technology‐based attention training has demonstrated promise in its potential to improve cognitive functioning in older people. Developing mobile applications, with older users specifically in mind, may support future dissemination of these interventions and integration into daily life.

Aims and objectives

The purpose of this pilot study was to test the feasibility of an Attention Training Application (ATA) for community‐dwelling older adults using mobile technology.

Design

A descriptive, mixed‐methods design was used to capture older adults' feedback on the usability and acceptability of the ATA.

Methods

A convenience sample of older adults (n = 9) from two independent living facilities participated in a 2‐hour training and practice session with the ATA. Participants were given personally tailored instructions for using the mobile device and the ATA specifically. Following a practice session, participants provided ratings on multiple components of the ATA and completed an audio‐recorded, semi‐structured interview to provide detailed descriptions of their experience and perceptions. An iterative process of content analysis was used to characterise the open‐ended responses.

Results

Participants rated the ATA favourably overall on several 0–10 scales including likeability [8.5 (1.6)], interest [8.8 (2.3)] and satisfaction [8.2 (1.9)]. The qualitative analyses revealed several issues relevant to the feasibility of the ATA among older people including the importance of the technological background of the user, limiting negative feedback, challenges with the touch screen interface, personal preferences for challenge, extending the practice period and the difficulty of the dual‐task condition.

Conclusions

The use of the ATA is feasible in the older adult population. Future development should specifically consider personal characteristics as well as preferences to maximise usability and acceptability among older people.

Implications for practice

Older adults enjoyed the ATA. This opens doors to user‐friendly technological interventions that may be effective in assisting older adults maintain and possibly even improve their cognitive function.
Factors Affecting Sexually Transmitted Infections in South Korean High School Students
Authors: Kim Suhee , Lee Chungyul
Published: June 2015

Objective

This study identified factors affecting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among high school students in South Korea.

Design and Sample

This study was a secondary data analysis using data from the eighth annual Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web‐based Survey conducted in 2012. Data from 2,387 high school students who reported having sexual intercourse were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi‐square tests, and logistic regression by gender.

Measures

The survey questionnaire measured drug experience, Internet pornography preference, age at first intercourse, and method of contraception.

Results

Overall, 7.2% of participants had experienced STIs. The common significant predictors of STIs in male and female students were drug experience, Internet pornography preference, and age at first intercourse. Contraceptive methods were statistically significant only for males; living arrangements and Internet usage were significant only for females.

Conclusions

Drug experiences, Internet pornography preference, and age at first intercourse were strong factors that affected both male and female students, suggesting the necessity to reinforce laws and regulations prohibiting drug use and pornography. Moreover, precise and detailed information on intercourse, sexual behaviors, and STIs offered by public health nurses should be officially provided starting in elementary school. For male students, the practice of condom use should be emphasized.
Simplifying photogrammetric analysis for assessment of large mammal mass: automated targeting and 3D model building
Authors: Catherine Bester L. , de Bruyn P. J. Nico
Published: June 2015

Close range photogrammetry has increasingly diverse practical application within the biological sciences. Its use in large mammal research for size and/or mass estimation has proven extremely beneficial. Recent photogrammetric technique advancements have improved its applicability in the field, although some analytical components remain time consuming. The use of automated coded targets, associated with commercially available software, was evaluated to simplify photogrammetric analysis without compromising its practicality. The effects of variable target size and shape, lighting conditions, number of photographs, photograph target coverage and project processing time were assessed. Augmenting a published photogrammetric field technique by including coded targets greatly reduced analysis time. The simplified method is attractive for use by a wider range of both specialist and non‐specialist users for applications within the animal photogrammetry field.
Extraction of road traffic sign information based on a vehicle‐borne mobile photogrammetric system
Authors: Zhang Ka , Sheng Yehua , Lv Haiyang
Published: June 2015

A new approach to automatically extracting road traffic sign information based on a vehicle‐borne mobile photogrammetric system (VMPS) is proposed in this paper. The method can be divided into four steps: (a) traffic sign detection in a single image; (b) geometric information computation in a stereopair; (c) semantic information recognition; and (d) stereoscopic information consistency verification. In order to enhance the robustness and adaptability of the approach, colour recognition probabilistic neural networks (PNNs) based on pixel vectors, together with shape‐identification PNNs based on central projected vectors, are used during the traffic sign detection and recognition steps. The proposed approach is applied to many real‐scene stereopairs taken by VMPS at different times and places. Experimental results demonstrate its feasibility and effectiveness.
Association between telomere length and survival in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Dai Jinghong , Cai Hourong , Li Hui , Zhuang Yi , Min Haiyan , Wen Yanting , Yang Jie , Gao Qian , Shi Yi , Yi Long
Published: June 2015

Background and objective

Short telomere is a crucial risk factor for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). However, little is known about the association between baseline telomere length and survival in IPF. We aimed to determine whether telomere length is associated with survival of IPF.

Methods

Leukocyte telomere lengths were measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction in IPF patients at the time of the initial enrolment assessment in Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Affiliated to Medical School of Nanjing University. The primary endpoint was the survival of the IPF patients since their initial enrolment assessment.

Results

Ninety‐four IPF patients were enrolled between 1 January 2012 and 30 June 2014. The mean age‐adjusted telomere length of IPF patients (0.85 ± 0.60) was significantly shorter than age‐matched controls (1.15 ± 0.60, P = 0.001). During the follow‐up period, 43 IPF patients died. The mean age‐adjusted telomere length of the non‐survivors (0.61 ± 0.53) was significantly shorter than that of the survivors (1.03 ± 0.59, P = 0.005). The association between telomere length (hazard ratio (HR) 0.470 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.25–0. 89); P = 0·019) and survival in patients with IPF was independent of age, sex, forced vital capacity or diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide. After excluding the six patients with telomerase gene mutations, telomere length (HR 0.46 (95% CI: 0.24–0.88); P = 0·018) remained an independent predictor of survival time in patients with IPF.

Conclusions

Short telomere length is independently associated with worse survival in IPF. Future research should focus on the molecular mechanism underlying the shortening of telomere length in IPF.
Institutional Quality and CO2 Emission–Trade Relations: Evidence from Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Ibrahim Mansor H. , Law Siong Hook
Published: June 2015

This paper examines the roles of trade, institutional quality and their interactions in explaining carbon dioxide emissions in a panel sample of 40 Sub‐Sahara African countries using the system generalised method of moments. We find that institutional reforms are unequivocally environmental improving. Meanwhile, the impacts of trade on the environment tend to depend on the institutional setting of a country. More specifically, trade openness is harmful to the environment in countries with low institutional quality and beneficial to the environment in countries with high institutional quality. This means that institutional reforms are a perquisite for the countries with low institutional quality to actualise the beneficial environment effect of trade. As for the countries with adequate institutional quality, trade and institutions are reinforcing each other in bringing down pollution. From these results, we conclude that trade openness implemented in a sound institutional setting potentially brings better trade, more growth and better environment.
Active Control of an Active Magnetic Bearings Supported Spindle for Chatter Suppression in Milling Process
Authors: Huang Tao , Chen Zhiyong , Zhang Hai-Tao , Ding Han
Published: June 2015

In machining process, chatter is an unstable dynamic phenomenon which causes overcut and quick tool wear, etc. To avoid chatter, traditional methods aim to optimize machining parameters. But they have inherent disadvantage in gaining highly efficient machining. Active magnetic bearing (AMB) is a promising technology for machining on account of low wear and friction, low maintenance cost, and long operating life. The control currents applied to AMBs allow not only to stabilize the supported spindle but also to actively suppress chatter in milling process. This paper, for the first time, studies an integrated control scheme for stability of milling process with a spindle supported by AMBs. First, to eliminate the vibration of an unloaded spindle rotor during acceleration/deceleration, we present an optimal controller with proper compensation for speed variation. Next, the controller is further enhanced by adding an adaptive algorithm based on Fourier series analysis to actively suppress chatter in milling process. Finally, numerical simulations show that the stability lobe diagram (SLD) boundary can be significantly expanded. Also, a practical issue of constraints on controller output is discussed.
Study and optimization of PECVD films containing fluorine and carbon as ultra low dielectric constant interlayer dielectrics in ULSI devices
Authors: Sundaram Nandini , Lee Gil Sik , Goeckner Matthew , Overzet Lawrence J.
Published: June 2015

Fluorinated amorphous carbon films that are thermally stable at 400 °C have been deposited in a plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition system using tetrafluorocarbon and disilane (5% by volume in helium) as precursors. The bulk dielectric constant (k) of the film has been optimized from 2.0/2.2 to 1.8/1.91 as-deposited and after heat treatment, by varying process parameters including power density, deposition temperature, and wall temperature. Films, failing shrinkage rate requirements, possessing promising k-values have been salvaged by utilizing a novel extended heat treatment scheme. Film properties including chemical bond structure, F/C ratio, refractive index, surface planarity, contact angle, dielectric constant, flatband voltage shift, breakdown field potential and optical energy gap have been evaluated by varying process pressure, power, substrate temperature, and flow rate ratio of processing gases. Both x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and FTIR results confirm that the stoichiometry of the ultralow k film is close to that of CF2 with no oxygen. C-V characteristics indicate the presence of negative charges that are either interface trapped charges or bulk charges. Average breakdown field strength was in the range of 2–8 MV/cm while optical energy gap varied between 2.2 and 3.4 eV.
An 8-Week Exercise Intervention Based on Zumba Improves Aerobic Fitness and Psychological Well-Being in Healthy Women
Authors: Delextrat Anne A. , Warner Sarah , Graham Sarah , Neupert Emma
Published: June 2015

Background:

Although Zumba is practiced by millions of people worldwide, there is a paucity of research about its potential benefits. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of Zumba on physiological and psychological outcomes in healthy women.

Methods:

Cardiovascular fitness, body composition, physical self-perception and psychological well-being were assessed before and immediately after 8 weeks of Zumba performed 3 times weekly (Zumba group, n = 22, age: 26.6 ± 5.4 years old; height: 165.8 ± 7.1 cm) or no intervention (control group, n = 22, age: 27.9 ± 6.0 years old; height: 164.7 ± 6.2 cm). All variables were analyzed by a 2-way (Group × Time) analysis of variance with repeated measures, and a Bonferroni post hoc test. Pearson correlation coefficient assessed the relationship between changes in anthropometric, physiological and psychological variables.

Results:

Zumba provided significant positive changes in maximal aerobic fitness (+3.6%), self-perception of physical strength (+16.3%) and muscular development (+18.6%), greater autonomy (+8.0%), and purpose in life (+4.4%). No significant changes were observed in the control group. In addition, some psychological changes were significantly correlated to body fat at baseline, and changes in fitness.

Conclusions:

These results highlight that Zumba is beneficial to improve fitness and well-being in healthy women, but does not change body composition.
Optimal congestion pricing toll design for revenue maximization: comprehensive numerical results and implications
Authors: Fan Wei
Published: June 2015

The purpose of this paper is to present bi-level optimization models and develop a genetic algorithm (GA) based method to solve the optimal congestion pricing toll design problem and to determine the second-best link-based optimal toll locations and toll levels simultaneously. The upper-level subprogram is to maximize the toll revenue collected while explicitly accounting for the toll booth setting up and operating cost, given certain toll level constraints. The lower-level subprogram is a traditional user equilibrium problem with elastic demand. The proposed GA model is applied to the Sioux Falls network, which has 76 links and 24 origin–destination pairs, assuming homogeneous users. Comprehensive numerical results including solutions achieved under continuous tolling and discrete tolling schemes, tolling on optimized links and tolling on heuristically selected most congested links are carefully presented and compared. The impact of value of time and the elastic demand sensitivity are also comprehensively investigated.
Forest regeneration in northeastern Poland following a catastrophic blowdown
Authors: Dobrowolska Dorota
Published: June 2015

The aims of the investigation were to (i) quantify the changes in natural regeneration and stand structure, (ii) determine the role of deadwood in the process of regeneration following the disturbance, and (iii) determine the effect of disturbance severity on tree recruitment. The study was conducted in the Szast Protected Forest, which was established after a blowdown in 2002. The results showed that the trees were mainly wind-snapped. The basal area of the slightly disturbed stands increased over time. Herb cover increased, whereas moss cover decreased in 2011. The disturbance severity influenced the density of tree species regeneration, moss and herb ground cover, species diversity, average tree height, tree vitality, and damage caused by herbivores. The density of natural regeneration increased and new species became established after the disturbance. Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) was the dominant tree species during the regeneration process except in the severely disturbed stand from which wood had been removed; in this case, birch was the dominant species. Wind disturbance increased species diversity and created a new forest with a particular species structure and trees that varied in age and height. The results of this study will be useful for foresters and policymakers to change the existing approaches to large-scale disturbances in the Polish forests.
Effective gravitational mass of the Ayón-Beato and García metric
Authors: Sinha A. K. , Pandey G. K. , Bhaskar A. K. , Rai B. C. , Jha A. K. , Kumar S. , Xulu S. S.
Published: June 2015

In this paper, we calculate the effective gravitational mass of Ayón-Beato and García (AG) regular (nonsingular) static spherically symmetric asymptotically Minkowskian metric that is a solution to Einstein’s equations coupled with a nonlinear electromagnetic field. The effective gravitational mass is negative, zero, or positive that depends on the ratio of magnitude of electric charge to the ADM mass and the ratio of the radial distance to the ADM mass. As expected, at large values of radial distance, our result gives effective gravitational mass of the Reissner–Nordström metric.
Bilateral Iris Atrophy after the Femtosecond Assisted Laser In Situ Keratomileusis Surgery
Authors: Olcay Kenan , Cakir Akin , Sagdic Sercan Koray , Duzgun Eyup , Yildirim Yildiray
Published: June 2015

Purpose. To report an unknown complication of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) surgery.Case Presentation. A 28-year-old female presented with photophobia and glare to our eye service. She stated in her medical history that she had undergone femtosecond assisted LASIK surgery in both eyes 15 months ago and her symptoms started just after this surgery. On admission, her best-corrected visual acuity was 10/10 in both eyes. She had mydriatic pupils with no direct light reflex. Examination of the anterior segment revealed bilateral iris atrophy projecting within the LASIK ablation zone and a transillumination defect was remarkable on the slit lamp examination.Conclusion. We hypothesized that this condition may have been caused by the abnormally increased IOP that resulted in ischemia in the iris vascular plexus during the suction process of surgery.
Polymorphisms of Leptin (-2548 G/A) and Leptin Receptor (Q223R) Genes in Iranian Women with Breast Cancer
Authors: Mahmoudi Reza , Noori Alavicheh Bahareh , Nazer Mozaffari Mohammad Amin , Fararouei Mohammad , Nikseresht Mohsen
Published: June 2015

Recent studies have shown that polymorphisms in leptin and leptin receptor genes are associated with increased risk for breast cancer. This study aimed at investigating -2548 G/A polymorphism in leptin gene and Q223R polymorphism in leptin receptor gene in patients with breast cancer. The study included 45 women with breast cancer and 41 healthy women. PCR-RFLP was used to determine the genotype of the subjects in terms of -2548 G/A polymorphism in leptin gene and Q223R polymorphism in leptin receptor gene. Serum levels of leptin were also measured by ELISA. For -2548 G/A polymorphism, the genotypes were homozygous AA (OR = 1.13;p=0.8) and heterozygous GA (OR = 0.41;p=0.2) and for Q223R polymorphism, the genotypes were homozygous RR (OR = 6.7;p=0.09) and heterozygous QR (OR = 8.3;p=0.06). The mean serum level of leptin was 33.22 ± 21.35 ng/mL in patients and 29.49 ± 23.27 ng/mL in the normal participants (p=0.3). Although, despite the magnitude of the associations, the results suggested no statistically significant contribution of -2548 G/A polymorphism (in leptin gene), Q223R polymorphism (in leptin receptor gene), and serum leptin levels in predicting the risk of breast cancer, further studies with larger sample size are suggested.
Effects of the Fourth Ventricle Compression in the Regulation of the Autonomic Nervous System: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Cardoso-de-Mello-e-Mello-Ribeiro Ana Paula , Rodríguez-Blanco Cleofás , Riquelme-Agulló Inmaculada , Heredia-Rizo Alberto Marcos , Ricard François , Oliva-Pascual-Vaca Ángel
Published: June 2015

Introduction. Dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system is an important factor in the development of chronic pain. Fourth ventricle compression (CV-4) has been shown to influence autonomic activity. Nevertheless, the physiological mechanisms behind these effects remain unclear.Objectives. This study is aimed at evaluating the effects of fourth ventricle compression on the autonomic nervous system.Methods. Forty healthy adults were randomly assigned to an intervention group, on whom CV-4 was performed, or to a control group, who received a placebo intervention (nontherapeutic touch on the occipital bone). In both groups, plasmatic catecholamine levels, blood pressure, and heart rate were measured before and immediately after the intervention.Results. No effects related to the intervention were found. Although a reduction of norepinephrine, systolic blood pressure, and heart rate was found after the intervention, it was not exclusive to the intervention group. In fact, only the control group showed an increment of dopamine levels after intervention.Conclusion. Fourth ventricle compression seems not to have any effect in plasmatic catecholamine levels, blood pressure, or heart rate. Further studies are needed to clarify the CV-4 physiologic mechanisms and clinical efficacy in autonomic regulation and pain treatment.
A Multiple Pheromone Table Based Ant Colony Optimization for Clustering
Authors: Hu Kai-Cheng , Tsai Chun-Wei , Chiang Ming-Chao , Yang Chu-Sing
Published: June 2015

Ant colony optimization (ACO) is an efficient heuristic algorithm for combinatorial optimization problems, such as clustering. Because the search strategy of ACO is similar to those of other well-known heuristics, the probability of searching particular regions will be increased if better results are found and kept. Although this kind of search strategy may find a better approximate solution, it also has a high probability of losing the potential search directions. To prevent the ACO from losing too many potential search directions at the early iterations, a novel pheromone updating strategy is presented in this paper. In addition to the “original” pheromone table used to keep track of thepromisinginformation, a second pheromone table is added to the proposed algorithm to keep track of theunpromisinginformation so as to increase the probability of searching directions worse than the current solutions. Several well-known clustering datasets are used to evaluate the performance of the proposed method in this paper. The experimental results show that the proposed method can provide better results than ACO and other clustering algorithms in terms of quality.