bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiobjective Game Method Based on Self‐Adaptive Space Division of Design Variables and Its Application to Vehicle Suspension
Authors: Meng Rui , Xie Nenggang , Wang Lu
Published: June 2014

Based on the similarity between the game theory and the multiobjective design, the bionic mapping and the space mapping are established between the multiobjective optimization model and game model. Then, the multiobjective optimization method based on self‐adaptive space division of design variables is proposed. The design variables are divided into multiple strategy subspaces and are assigned to corresponding game players by calculating impact factors, K‐means clustering, and correlation analysis. Strategy subspaces of game players are dynamically adjusted in the iteration process. In their own strategy subspaces, each game player takes their payoff function (the mapping of objective function) as monoobjective optimization. It gives the best strategy upon other players. And the best strategies of all players are combined into the group strategy in this game round. Triobjective optimization is carried out for vehicle suspension in this method and it is compared with the traditional game method. The results show that this method has better calculating automaticity and can effectively promote generalization of multiobjective game method and improve the computational efficiency and precision.
Cost-Effectiveness of Pazopanib in Advanced Soft Tissue Sarcoma in the United Kingdom
Authors: Amdahl Jordan , Manson Stephanie C. , Isbell Robert , Chit Ayman , Diaz Jose , Lewis Lily , Delea Thomas E.
Published: June 2014

In the phase III PALETTE trial, pazopanib improved progression-free survival (PFS) compared with placebo in patients with advanced/metastatic soft tissue sarcomas (mSTS) who had received prior chemotherapy. We used a multistate model to estimate expected PFS, overall survival (OS), lifetime STS treatment costs, and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) for patients receiving pazopanib, placebo, trabectedin, ifosfamide, or gemcitabine plus docetaxel as second-line mSTS therapies. The cost-effectiveness of pazopanib was expressed as the incremental costs per QALY gained. Estimates of PFS/OS, adverse events, and utilities for pazopanib and placebo were from the PALETTE trial. Estimates of relative effectiveness of the other comparators were from an unadjusted indirect comparison versus pazopanib. Costs were from published sources. Pazopanib is estimated to increase QALYs by 0.128 and costs by£7,976 versus placebo; cost per QALY gained with pazopanib versus placebo is estimated to be£62,000. Compared with the other chemotherapies, pazopanib provides similar QALYs at a lower cost. Pazopanib may not be cost-effective versus placebo but may be cost-effective versus the most commonly used active treatments, although this conclusion is uncertain. Given the unmet need for effective treatments for mSTS, pazopanib may be an appropriate alternative to some currently used medications in the United Kingdom.
Dual Y-Shaped Monopole Antenna for Dual-Band WLAN/WiMAX Operations
Authors: Zhai Huiqing , Gao Qiqiang , Ma Zhihui , Liang Changhong
Published: June 2014

A dual-band design of monopole antenna with two coupled Y-shaped strips for WLAN/WiMAX applications is presented. By the introduction of dual Y-shaped strips, two separated impedance bandwidths of 22.4% (3.28~4.10 GHz) and 19.2% (4.90~5.94 GHz) can be obtained to meet the specifications of the WLAN/WiMAX communication band applications. The proposed antenna is successfully simulated, designed, and measured, demonstrating the matched impedance and good radiation characteristics with an overall dimension of17.7×26×1 mm3.
Treatment Alternatives to Negotiate Peri-Implantitis
Authors: Machtei Eli E.
Published: June 2014

Peri-implant diseases are becoming a major health issue in dentistry. Despite the magnitude of this problem and the potential grave consequences, commonly acceptable treatment protocols are missing. Hence, the present paper reviews the literature treatment of peri-implantitis in order to explore their benefits and limitations. Treatment of peri-implantitis may include surgical and nonsurgical approaches, either individually or combined. Nonsurgical therapy is aimed at removing local irritants from the implants’ surface with or without surface decontamination and possibly some additional adjunctive therapies agents or devices. Systemic antibiotics may also be incorporated. Surgical therapy is aimed at removing any residual subgingival deposits and additionally reducing the peri-implant pockets depth. This can be done alone or in conjunction with either osseous respective approach or regenerative approach. Finally, if all fails, explantation might be the best alternative in order to arrest the destruction of the osseous structure around the implant, thus preserving whatever is left in this site for future reconstruction. The available literature is still lacking with large heterogeneity in the clinical response thus suggesting possible underlying predisposing conditions that are not all clear to us. Therefore, at present time treatment of peri-implantitis should be considered possible but not necessarily predictable.
Relationship between Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography and Standard Automated Perimetry in Healthy and Glaucoma Patients
Authors: Abadia Beatriz , Ferreras Antonio , Calvo Pilar , Ara Mirian , Ferrandez Blanca , Otin Sofia , Frezzotti Paolo , Pablo Luis E. , Figus Michele
Published: June 2014

Objective. To evaluate the relationship between spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) and standard automated perimetry (SAP) in healthy and glaucoma individuals.Methods. The sample comprised 338 individuals divided into 2 groups according to intraocular pressure and visual field outcomes. All participants underwent a reliable SAP and imaging of the optic nerve head with the Cirrus OCT. Pearson correlations were calculated between threshold sensitivity values of SAP (converted to linear scale) and OCT parameters.Results. Mean age did not differ between the control and glaucoma groups (59.55 ± 9.7 years and 61.05 ± 9.4 years, resp.;P=0.15). Significant differences were found for the threshold sensitivities at each of the 52 points evaluated with SAP (P<0.001) and the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thicknesses, except at 3 and 9 clock-hour positions between both groups. Mild to moderate correlations (ranging between 0.286 and 0.593;P<0.001) were observed between SAP and most OCT parameters in the glaucoma group. The strongest correlations were found between the inferior RNFL thickness and the superior hemifield points. The healthy group showed lower and weaker correlations than the glaucoma group.Conclusions. Peripapillary RNFL thickness measured with Cirrus OCT showed mild to moderate correlations with SAP in glaucoma patients.
An Upper Bound of Large Deviations for Capacities
Authors: Cao Xiaomin
Published: June 2014

Up to now, most of the academic researches about the large deviation and risk theory are under the framework of the classical linear expectations. But motivated by problems of model uncertainties in statistics, measures of risk, and superhedging in finance, sublinear expectations are extensively studied. In this paper, we obtain a type of large deviation principle under the sublinear expectation. This result is a new expression of the Gärtner‐Ellis theorem under the sublinear expectations which is in the classical theory of large deviations. In addition, we introduce a new process under the sublinear expectations, that is, the G‐Poisson process. We give an application of our result and obtain the rate function of the compound G‐Poisson process in the upper bound of large deviations for capacities. The application of our result opens a new field for the research of risk theory in the future.
Combining Diffusion Models and Macroeconomic Indicators with a Modified Genetic Programming Method: Implementation in Forecasting the Number of Mobile Telecommunications Subscribers in OECD Countries
Authors: Salpasaranis Konstantinos , Stylianakis Vasilios , Kotsopoulos Stavros
Published: June 2014

This paper proposes a modified Genetic Programming method for forecasting the mobile telecommunications subscribers’ population. The method constitutes an expansion of the hybrid Genetic Programming (hGP) method improved by the introduction of diffusion models for technological forecasting purposes in the initial population, such as the Logistic, Gompertz, and Bass, as well as the Bi-Logistic and LogInLog. In addition, the aforementioned functions and models expand the function set of hGP. The application of the method in combination with macroeconomic indicators such as Gross Domestic Product per Capita (GDPpC) and Consumer Prices Index (CPI) leads to the creation of forecasting models and scenarios for medium- and long-term level of predictability. The forecasting module of the program has also been improved with the multi-levelled use of the statistical indices as fitness functions and model selection indices. The implementation of the modified-hGP in the datasets of mobile subscribers in the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries shows very satisfactory forecasting performance.
A Case of Myxoid Liposarcoma of the Retroperitoneum: A Challenging Tumour for Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Grasso Emanuele , Marino Fabio , Bottalico Michele , Simone Michele
Published: June 2014

Retroperitoneal sarcomas are rare neoplasms that account for only 1%-2% of all solid tumors and liposarcomas represent the most frequent histological type. We describe the case of a 44-year-old female with a retroperitoneal myxoid liposarcoma of 22 × 19 × 8 cm in size. The only symptoms were persistent pain and progressive tenderness of the abdomen lasting for two months. The mass was radically excised during laparotomy. CT and MRI were useful to clarify the site of origin of the tumor, relationships with other organs, and planning surgery but final diagnosis was based on histological findings. Here we review the literature about the challenging diagnosis, treatment, and prognostic factors of this disease.
A Brief Overview of the Last 10 Years of Major Late Pleistocene Discoveries in the Old World: Homo floresiensis, Neanderthal, and Denisovan
Authors: Neubauer Fernanda
Published: June 2014

In the last ten years, new fossil, archaeological, and genetic data have significantly altered our understanding of the peopling of the Old World in the Late Pleistocene. Scholars have long been challenged to define humanity’s place in evolution and to trace our phylogeny. Differences in the skeletal morphology of hominin fossils have often led to the naming of distinct new species, but recent genetic findings have challenged the traditional perspective by demonstrating that modern human DNA contains genes inherited from Neanderthals and Denisovans, thus questioning their status as separate species. The recent discovery of Homo floresiensis from Flores Island has also raised interesting queries about how much genetic and morphological diversity was present during the Late Pleistocene. This paper discusses the nature and implications of the evidence with respect to Homo floresiensis, Neanderthals, and Denisovans and briefly reviews major Late Pleistocene discoveries from the last ten years of research in the Old World and their significance to the study of human evolution.
Role of IL-33 and Its Receptor in T Cell-Mediated Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Zhao Qing , Chen Guangjie
Published: June 2014

Interleukin-33 (IL-33) is a new cytokine of interleukin-1 family, whose specific receptor is ST2. IL-33 exerts its functions via its target cells and plays different roles in diseases. ST2 deletion and exclusion of IL-33/ST2 axis are accompanied by enhanced susceptibility to dominantly T cell-mediated organ-specific autoimmune diseases. It has been reported that IL-33/ST2 pathway plays a key role in host defense and immune regulation in inflammatory and infectious diseases. This review focuses on new findings in the roles of IL-33 and ST2 in several kinds of T cell-mediated autoimmune diseases.
A New Method for Field-Balancing of High-Speed Flexible Rotors without Trial Weights
Authors: Khulief Y. A. , Mohiuddin M. A. , El-Gebeily M.
Published: June 2014

Flexible rotor balancing, in general, relies to a great extent on physical insight into the modal nature of the unbalance response. The objective of this investigation is to develop a hybrid experimental/analytical technique for balancing high-speed flexible rotors. The developed technique adopts an approach that combines the finite element modeling, experimental modal analysis, vibration measurements, and mathematical identification. The modal imbalances are identified and then transformed to the nodal space, in order to determine a set of physical balancing masses at some selected correction planes. The developed method does not rely on trial runs. In addition, the method does not require operating the supercritical rotor in a high-speed balancing facility, while accounting for the contribution of higher significant modes. The developed scheme is applied to a multidisk, multibearing, high-speed flexible rotor, where the interaction between the rotor-bending operating deflections and the forces resulting from the residual unbalance are appreciable. Some new benchmark solutions and observations are reported. The applicability, reliability, and challenges that may be encountered in field applications are addressed.
Lupus Flare: An Uncommon Presentation of Disseminated Gonorrhea
Authors: To Uyen , Kim Joyce , Chia David
Published: June 2014

Gonorrhea is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in the US with 700,000 annual cases. Although most cases of gonorrhea are localized, approximately 0.5–3% become disseminated. Here we discuss a rare case of a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who developed septic shock from disseminated gonorrhea infection (DGI). Our patient is a 24-year-old woman with SLE, mixed connective tissue disease with cutaneous vasculitis, and lupus nephritis who presented with several weeks of malaise and generalized body aches associated with a diffuse rash along her fingers, palms, and trunk. Infectious workup was unrevealing with the exception of a positive gonorrhea test obtained from a cervical swab. Given her symptoms of tenosynovitis, the appearance of her skin lesions, and her positive gonorrhea test, she was diagnosed with septic shock secondary to DGI. With antibiotic treatment, the patient reported a dramatic improvement of the pain in her swollen joints and her rash receded. Patients diagnosed with SLE carry an increased risk of gonorrhea regardless of whether or not they are being treated for their SLE. Although it is well-documented that SLE is associated with severe DGI, few describe it resulting in overt septic shock.
Size Effects: The Relation to the Percentage of Atoms That Participate in the Deformation of ZrCu Metallic Glass
Authors: Gao L. K. , Zhao F. L. , Xu N. , Qi L. , Liu R. P.
Published: June 2014

Molecular dynamics simulations indicate that with the model diameter gradually decreasing the deformation mode of ZrCu metallic glass evolves from highly localized shear band formation to homogeneous deformation with obvious transition inD=7–9 nm. Through the statistic of atoms that sustain shear strain larger than 8% in the models with 8% strain alongz-direction, we found that the main reason for the uniform deformation that occurs in the smallest size model is that there are 61% atoms involved in the deformation, which significantly decrease the strain assigned to individual atoms, avoiding large atomic rearrangement and making those atoms evenly distributed in the model matrix.
Work Status and Return to the Workforce after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting and/or Heart Valve Surgery: A One-Year-Follow Up Study
Authors: Fonager Kirsten , Lundbye-Christensen Søren , Andreasen Jan Jesper , Futtrup Mikkel , Christensen Anette Luther , Ahmad Khalil , Nørgaard Martin Agge
Published: June 2014

Background. Several characteristics appear to be important for estimating the likelihood of reentering the workforce after surgery. The aim of the present study was to describe work status in a two-year time period around the time of cardiac surgery and estimate the probability of returning to the workforce.Methods. We included 681 patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting and/or heart valve procedures from 2003 to 2007 in the North Denmark Region. We linked hospital data to data in the DREAM database which holds information of everyone receiving social benefits.Results. At the time of surgery 17.3% were allocated disability pension and 2.3% were allocated a permanent part-time benefit. Being unemployed one year before surgery reduced the likelihood of return to the workforce (RR=0.74(0.60–0.92)) whereas unemployment at the time of surgery had no impact on return to the workforce (RR=0.96(0.78–1.18)). Sickness absence before surgery reduced the likelihood of return to the workforce.Conclusion. This study found the work status before surgery to be associated with the likelihood of return to the workforce within one year after surgery. Before surgery one-fifth of the population either was allocated disability pension or received a permanent part-time benefit.
Nanopatterned Silicon Substrate Use in Heterojunction Thin Film Solar Cells Made by Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Tseng Shao-Ze , Lin Chang-Rong , Wei Hung-Sen , Chan Chia-Hua , Chen Sheng-Hui
Published: June 2014

This paper describes a method for fabricating silicon heterojunction thin film solar cells with an ITO/p-type a-Si : H/n-type c-Si structure by radiofrequency magnetron sputtering. A short-circuit current density and efficiency of 28.80 mA/cm2and 8.67% were achieved. Novel nanopatterned silicon wafers for use in cells are presented. Improved heterojunction cells are formed on a nanopatterned silicon substrate that is prepared with a self-assembled monolayer of SiO2nanospheres with a diameter of 550 nm used as an etching mask. The efficiency of the nanopattern silicon substrate heterojunction cells was 31.49% greater than that of heterojunction cells on a flat silicon wafer.
Residual Prolapse in Patients with III-IV Degree Haemorrhoids Undergoing Stapled Haemorrhoidopexy with CPH34 HV: Results of an Italian Multicentric Clinical Study
Authors: Reboa Giuliano , Gipponi Marco , Rattaro Andrea , Ciotta Giovanni , Tarantello Marco , Caviglia Angelo , Pagliazzo Antonio , Masoni Luigi , Caldarelli Giuseppe , Gaj Fabio , Masci Bruno , Verdi Andrea
Published: June 2014

CPH34 HV, a high volume stapler, was tested in order to assess its safety and efficacy in reducing residual/recurrent haemorrhoids. The clinical charts of 430 patients with third- to fourth-degree haemorrhoids undergoing SH in 2012-2013 were consecutively reviewed, excluding those with obstructed defecation (rectocele >2 cm; Wexner’s score >15). Follow-up was scheduled at six and 12 months. Rectal prolapse exceeding more than half of CAD was reported in 341 patients (79.3%); one technical failure was reported (0.2%) without any serious untoward effect; and 1.3 stitch/patient (SD, 1.7) was required to achieve complete haemostasis. Doughnuts volume was higher (13.8 mL; SD, 1.5) in patients with a large rectal prolapse than with smaller one (8.9 mL; SD, 0.7) (Pvalue <0.05). Residual and recurrent haemorrhoids occurred in 8 of 430 patients (1.8%) and 5 of 254 patients (1.9%), respectively. A high index of patient satisfaction (visual analogue scale = 8.9; SD, 0.9) coupled with a persistent reduction of constipation scores (CSS = 5.0, SD, 2.2) was observed. The wider prolapse resection well correlated with a clear-cut reduction of haemorrhoidal relapse, a high index of patient satisfaction, and clinically relevant reduction of constipations scores coupled with satisfactory haemostatic properties of CPH34 HV.
Complexity Analysis of Primal-Dual Interior-Point Methods for Linear Optimization Based on a New Parametric Kernel Function with a Trigonometric Barrier Term
Authors: Cai X. Z. , Wang G. Q. , El Ghami M. , Yue Y. J.
Published: June 2014

We introduce a new parametric kernel function, which is a combination of the classic kernel function and a trigonometric barrier term, and present various properties of this new kernel function. A class of large- and small-update primal-dual interior-point methods for linear optimization based on this parametric kernel function is proposed. By utilizing the feature of the parametric kernel function, we derive the iteration bounds for large-update methods,O(n2/3log⁡(n/ε)), and small-update methods,O(nlog⁡(n/ε)). These results match the currently best known iteration bounds for large- and small-update methods based on the trigonometric kernel functions.
Processing Parameters Influence on Wear Resistance Behaviour of Friction Stir Processed Al-TiC Composites
Authors: Akinlabi E. T. , Mahamood R. M. , Akinlabi S. A. , Ogunmuyiwa E.
Published: June 2014

Friction stir processing (FSP) being a novel process is employed for the improvement of the mechanical properties of a material and the production of surface layer composites. The vital role of the integrity of surface characteristics in the mechanical properties of materials has made the research studies into surface modification important in order to improve the performance in practical applications. This study investigates the effect of processing parameters on the wear resistance behavior of friction stir processed Al-TiC composites. This was achieved through microstructural characterization by using both the optical and scanning electron microscope (SEM), microhardness profiling, and tribological characterization by means of the wear. The microhardness profiling of the processed samples revealed an increased hardness value, which was a function of the TiC particles incorporated when compared to the parent material. The wear resistance property was also found to increase as a result of the TiC powder addition. The right combination of processing parameters was found to improve the wear resistance property of the composites produced.
Chondrogenic Differentiation of Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells: A New Path in Articular Cartilage Defect Management?
Authors: Stromps Jan-Philipp , Paul Nora Emilie , Rath Björn , Nourbakhsh Mahtab , Bernhagen Jürgen , Pallua Norbert
Published: June 2014

According to data published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 6 million people undergo a variety of medical procedures for the repair of articular cartilage defects in the U.S. each year. Trauma, tumor, and age-related degeneration can cause major defects in articular cartilage, which has a poor intrinsic capacity for healing. Therefore, there is substantial interest in the development of novel cartilage tissue engineering strategies to restore articular cartilage defects to a normal or prediseased state. Special attention has been paid to the expansion of chondrocytes, which produce and maintain the cartilaginous matrix in healthy cartilage. This review summarizes the current efforts to generate chondrocytes from adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) and provides an outlook on promising future strategies.
Topical Herbal Application in the Management of Atopic Dermatitis: A Review of Animal Studies
Authors: Yun Younghee , Kim Kyuseok , Choi Inhwa , Ko Seong-Gyu
Published: June 2014

Herbs are widely used in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) in Eastern Asian countries, and certain herbs regarded have anti-inflammatory properties that can help with AD. With the goal of developing a topical herbal agent for AD, we conducted a systematic review ofin vivostudies of AD-like skin models for screening potential herbs. Searches were conducted from PubMed and EMBASE. After all, 22 studies were included for this review. We judged most of the domains of all studies to be at unclear risk of bias. Among 22 included studies, 21 herbs have been reported to reduce AD-like skin lesions in mouse models by suppressing Th2 cell response. Our findings may offer potential herbs for the topical application treatment of AD.
Iatrogenic Ascending Aorta Dissection during Diagnostic Coronary Angiography: Rare but Life-Threatening
Authors: Lambelin Marc , Janssens Luc , Haenen Luc
Published: June 2014

Dissection of the ascending aorta is a very rare but life-threatening complication during diagnostic angiography. We present a case of an elderly woman who underwent an elective diagnostic coronary angiography, complicated with an iatrogenic ascending aorta dissection that did not involve the coronary arteries but originated 4 cm distal of the aortic valve. The patient developed cardiogenic shock due to acute pericardial tamponade and so immediate, life-saving cardiac surgery with implantation of a supracoronary graft was successfully performed. A biopsy from the excised aorta showed loss of smooth muscle cells and accumulation of basophilic ground substance, clear features of cystic media necrosis. This is believed to be the underlying cause of the dissection besides a nonselective injection of the right coronary artery.
Automatic Person Identification in Camera Video by Motion Correlation
Authors: Duan Dingbo , Gao Guangyu , Liu Chi Harold , Ma Jian
Published: June 2014

Person identification plays an important role in semantic analysis of video content. This paper presents a novel method to automatically label persons in video sequence captured from fixed camera. Instead of leveraging traditional face recognition approaches, we deal with the task of person identification by fusing information from motion sensor platforms, like smart phones, carried on human bodies and extracted from camera video. More specifically, a sequence of motion features extracted from camera video are compared with each of those collected from accelerometers of smart phones. When strong correlation is detected, identity information transmitted from the corresponding smart phone is used to identify the phone wearer. To test the feasibility and efficiency of the proposed method, extensive experiments are conducted which achieved impressive performance.
Game-Theoretic Camera Selection Using Inference Tree Method for a Wireless Visual Sensor Network
Authors: Choi Yeong-Jae , Jeong Go-Wun , Seo Yong-Ho , Yang Hyun S.
Published: June 2014

In a wireless visual sensor network consisting of wireless, battery-powered, and field-of-view (FoV) overlapping and stationary visual sensors, trade-offs exist between extending network lifetime and enhancing its sensing accuracy. Moreover, aggregating individual inferences from each sensor is essential to generate a globally consistent inference, because these individual inferences can be biased by noise or other unexpected conditions. Those challenges can be addressed by reducing the amount of data transmission among the sensors and by activating, in a timely manner, only a desirable camera subset for given targets. In this paper, we initialize an optimal data transmission path among visual sensors using the inference tree method, which is vital for collecting individual inferences and building a global inference. Based on the optimal data transmission path, we model the camera selection problem in a cooperative bargaining game. In this game, based on the serial dictatorial rule, camera sensors cooperatively attempt to raise the overall sensing accuracy by sequentially deciding their own mode between “sleep” and “active” in descending order of their bargaining power. Simulated results demonstrate that our proposed approach outperforms other alternatives, resulting in reduced resource overhead and improved network lifetime and sensing accuracy.
Sexual Enhancement Products for Sale Online: Raising Awareness of the Psychoactive Effects of Yohimbine, Maca, Horny Goat Weed, andGinkgo biloba
Authors: Corazza Ornella , Martinotti Giovanni , Santacroce Rita , Chillemi Eleonora , Di Giannantonio Massimo , Schifano Fabrizio , Cellek Selim
Published: June 2014

Introduction. The use of unlicensed food and herbal supplements to enhance sexual functions is drastically increasing. This phenomenon, combined with the availability of these products over the Internet, represents a challenge from a clinical and a public health perspective.Methods. A comprehensive multilingual assessment of websites, drug fora, and other online resources was carried out between February and July 2013 with exploratory qualitative searches including 203 websites. Additional searches were conducted using the Global Public Health Intelligence Network (GPHIN). Once the active constitutes of the products were identified, a comprehensive literature search was carried out using PsycInfo and PubMed.Results. The most common sexual enhancement products available on the Internet were identified. Their active ingredients included yohimbine, maca, horny goat weed andGinkgo biloba.These four substances were reported with the occurrence of adverse events and the induction of psychological symptoms, such as mood changes, anxiety, and hallucinations as well as addictive behaviours.Conclusions. Uncontrolled availability of sexual enhancement products that contain potentially harmful substances is a major public health concern. The possible impact on population health, particularly among subjects with psychiatric disorders, usually at risk for sexual dysfunction, may be significant. This new trend needs to be extensively studied and monitored.
Sample Entropy‐Based Approach to Evaluate the Stability of Double‐Wire Pulsed MIG Welding
Authors: Yao Ping , Xue JiaXiang , Zhou Kang , Wang XiaoJun
Published: June 2014

According to the sample entropy, this paper deals with a quantitative method to evaluate the current stability in double‐wire pulsed MIG welding. Firstly, the sample entropy of current signals with different stability but the same parameters is calculated. The results show that the more stable the current, the smaller the value and the standard deviation of sample entropy. Secondly, four parameters, which are pulse width, peak current, base current, and frequency, are selected for four‐level three‐factor orthogonal experiment. The calculation and analysis of desired signals indicate that sample entropy values are affected by welding current parameters. Then, a quantitative method based on sample entropy is proposed. The experiment results show that the method can preferably quantify the welding current stability.
TiCl4Pretreatment and Electrodeposition Time Investigations of ZnO Photoelectrodes Preparation for Dye Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Zou Xiaoping , Liu Yan , Wei Cuiliu , Huang Zongbo , Meng Xiangmin
Published: June 2014

TiCl4pretreatment is used in the fabrication of high performance photoanodes for dyes-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). In this paper, TiCl4pretreatment was used on fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) before fabricating ZnO films by electrochemical method. The effects of TiCl4pretreatment on some important parameters of solar cells, such as short-circuit current (Jsc) and filling factor, were investigated. The morphology of ZnO films was changed after TiCl4pretreatment, which can offer large surface area to absorb much more dyes. When the time of electrodeposition was 3 min, the dyes-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) based on TiCl4pretreatment ZnO films showed more superior photoelectrochemical performance. The parameters of DSSCs are greatly improved. The DSSC based on ZnO films after TiCl4pretreatment has a very promising value for fabricating high performance solar cells.
A Study on Strategic Provisioning of Cloud Computing Services
Authors: Whaiduzzaman Md , Haque Mohammad Nazmul , Rejaul Karim Chowdhury Md , Gani Abdullah
Published: June 2014

Cloud computing is currently emerging as an ever-changing, growing paradigm that models “everything-as-a-service.” Virtualised physical resources, infrastructure, and applications are supplied by service provisioning in the cloud. The evolution in the adoption of cloud computing is driven by clear and distinct promising features for both cloud users and cloud providers. However, the increasing number of cloud providers and the variety of service offerings have made it difficult for the customers to choose the best services. By employing successful service provisioning, the essential services required by customers, such as agility and availability, pricing, security and trust, and user metrics can be guaranteed by service provisioning. Hence, continuous service provisioning that satisfies the user requirements is a mandatory feature for the cloud user and vitally important in cloud computing service offerings. Therefore, we aim to review the state-of-the-art service provisioning objectives, essential services, topologies, user requirements, necessary metrics, and pricing mechanisms. We synthesize and summarize different provision techniques, approaches, and models through a comprehensive literature review. A thematic taxonomy of cloud service provisioning is presented after the systematic review. Finally, future research directions and open research issues are identified.
Adult Intramedullary Ewing Sarcoma of the Proximal Hip
Authors: Gongidi Preetam , Jasti Siva , Rafferty William , Barshay Veniamin , Lackman Richard
Published: June 2014

Ewing sarcoma of bone is classically a permeative lesion in the diaphysis of long bones in children. While they occur primarily in children and adolescents, they can be seen in young adults in their 20s, but these are typically seen in flat bones. The permeative nature of the lesion can elicit new bone formation creating a partially sclerotic appearance, cortical expansion presenting as a “Codman triangle,” or have an “onion-skin” type of aggressive periosteal reaction/periostitis. Ewing sarcoma is rarely seen without an associated soft-tissue mass and is even rarer to just have benign-appearing periostitis (e.g., thick, uniform, or wavy cortex). We present such a case of Ewing sarcoma in a young adult confined to just the medullary metadiaphysis without cortical erosion or soft-tissue mass. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case to be reported in the radiology literature.
Ceftriaxone, a Beta-Lactam Antibiotic, Modulates Apoptosis Pathways and Oxidative Stress in a Rat Model of Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Amin Bahareh , Hajhashemi Valiollah , Abnous Khalil , Hosseinzadeh Hossein
Published: June 2014

Purpose. In our previous study, ceftriaxone, a beta-lactam antibiotic, elicited antinociceptive effects in the chronic constriction injury (CCI) of neuropathic pain. In this study, we assessed apoptosis and oxidative stress in the spinal cord of neuropathic rats treated with ceftriaxone.Methods. 45 male Wistar rats were divided as naïve, sham, normal saline-treated CCI rats, and CCI animals treated with the effective dose of ceftriaxone. Involvement of Bax, Bcl2, and caspases 3 and 9, important contributors of programmed cell death (apoptosis), was determined using western blotting at days 3 and 7. The markers of oxidative stress including malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) were measured on days 3 and 7.Results. Increased Bax/Bcl2 ratio and cleaved active forms of caspases 3 and 9 were observed in the spinal cord of CCI rats on day 3. Ceftriaxone attenuated the increased levels of Bax and cleaved forms of caspases 3 and 9, while it increased Bcl2 levels. Bax and active forms of caspases declined by day 7. Consequently, comparison among groups showed no difference at this time. CCI enhanced MDA and decreased GSH on days 3 and 7, while ceftriaxone protected against the CCI-induced oxidative stress.Conclusion. Our results suggest that ceftriaxone, an upregulator/activator of GLT1, could concomitantly reduce oxidative stress and apoptosis and producing its new analogs lacking antimicrobial activity may represent a novel approach for neuropathic pain treatment.
Racial/Ethnic Differences in Poststroke Rehabilitation Outcomes
Authors: Ellis Charles , Hyacinth Hyacinth I. , Beckett Jamie , Feng Wuwei , Chimowitz Marc , Ovbiagele Bruce , Lackland Dan , Adams Robert
Published: June 2014

Background. Significant racial and ethnic disparities in stroke incidence, severity, and morbidity have been consistently reported; however, less is known about potential differences in poststroke rehabilitation outcomes.Objective. To examine racial and ethnic differences in poststroke rehabilitation outcomes.Methods. We completed an in-depth search of Medline and several major journals dedicated to publishing research articles on stroke, rehabilitation, and racial-ethnic patterns of disease over a 10-year period (2003–2012). We identified studies that reported rehabilitation outcomes and the race or ethnicity of at least two groups.Results. 17 studies involving 429,108 stroke survivors met inclusion criteria for the review. The majority (94%) of studies examined outcomes between Blacks and Whites. Of those studies examining outcomes between Blacks and Whites, 59% showed that Blacks were generally less likely to achieve equivalent functional improvement following rehabilitation. Blacks were more likely to experience lower FIM gain or change scores (range: 1–60%) and more likely to have lower efficiency scores (range: 5–16%) than Whites.Conclusions. Black stroke survivors appear to generally achieve poorer functional outcomes than White stroke survivors. Future studies are warranted to evaluate the precise magnitude of these differences, whether they go beyond chance, and the underlying contributory mechanisms.
An Interactive Method Based on the Live Wire for Segmentation of the Breast in Mammography Images
Authors: Zewei Zhang , Tianyue Wang , Li Guo , Tingting Wang , Lu Xu
Published: June 2014

In order to improve accuracy of computer-aided diagnosis of breast lumps, the authors introduce an improved interactive segmentation method based on Live Wire. This paper presents the Gabor filters and FCM clustering algorithm is introduced to the Live Wire cost function definition. According to the image FCM analysis for image edge enhancement, we eliminate the interference of weak edge and access external features clear segmentation results of breast lumps through improving Live Wire on two cases of breast segmentation data. Compared with the traditional method of image segmentation, experimental results show that the method achieves more accurate segmentation of breast lumps and provides more accurate objective basis on quantitative and qualitative analysis of breast lumps.
Heart Health Risk Assessment System: A Nonintrusive Proposal Using Ontologies and Expert Rules
Authors: Garcia-Valverde Teresa , Muñoz Andrés , Arcas Francisco , Bueno-Crespo Andrés , Caballero Alberto
Published: June 2014

According to the World Health Organization, the world’s leading cause of death is heart disease, with nearly two million deaths per year. Although some factors are not possible to change, there are some keys that help to prevent heart diseases. One of the most important keys is to keep an active daily life, with moderate exercise. However, deciding what a moderate exercise is or when a slightly abnormal heart rate value is a risk depends on the person and the activity. In this paper we propose a context-aware system that is able to determine the activity the person is performing in an unobtrusive way. Then, we have defined ontology to represent the available knowledge about the person (biometric data, fitness status, medical information, etc.) and her current activity (level of intensity, heart rate recommended for that activity, etc.). With such knowledge, a set of expert rules based on this ontology are involved in a reasoning process to infer levels of alerts or suggestions for the users when the intensity of the activity is detected as dangerous for her health. We show how this approach can be accomplished by using only everyday devices such as a smartphone and a smartwatch.
Immune Imbalance in Nasal Polyps of Caucasian Chronic Rhinosinusitis Patients Is Associated with a Downregulation of E-Selectin
Authors: Könnecke Michael , Böscke Robert , Waldmann Anja , Bruchhage Karl-Ludwig , Linke Robert , Pries Ralph , Wollenberg Barbara
Published: June 2014

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) in Caucasians is a chronic Th2 inflammatory disease of the nasal and paranasal mucosa and the recruitment of leukocytes to the site of inflammation is poorly understood. We studied mRNA and protein expression profiles of adhesion molecules in nasal polyp and associated inferior turbinate tissues using molecular, biochemical, and immunohistological methods. Analysis showed a strongly decreased E-selectin expression in nasal polyps with a significant difference between eosinophil and neutrophil counts in nasal polyps and balanced counts in inferior turbinates. E-selectin expression is known to be downregulated in a Th2 milieu and has an essential role in immunosurveillance by locally activating neutrophil arrest and migratory function. A downregulation of E-selectin may come along with an immune imbalance in Caucasian nasal polyps due to a significant inhibition of neutrophil recruitment. Therefore, we suggest that an upregulation of E-selectin and the associated influx of neutrophils may play a significant role in the resolution of inflammation as well as for the pathophysiology of nasal polyps of Caucasian chronic rhinosinusitis patients.
Neutrinos as Probes of Lorentz Invariance
Authors: Díaz Jorge S.
Published: June 2014

Neutrinos can be used to search for deviations from exact Lorentz invariance. The worldwide experimental program in neutrino physics makes these particles a remarkable tool to search for a variety of signals that could reveal minute relativity violations. This paper reviews the generic experimental signatures of the breakdown of Lorentz symmetry in the neutrino sector.
The Role of theγδT Cell in Allergic Diseases
Authors: Zheng Rui , Yang Qintai
Published: June 2014

The predominant distribution ofγδT cells in the mucosal and epithelial tissues makes these unconventional lymphocytes the “guards” to contact external environment (like allergens) and to contribute to immune surveillance, as well as “vanguards” to participate in initiating mucosal inflammation. Therefore,γδT cells have been considered to bridge the innate and adaptive immunity. The role these cells play in allergy seems to be complicated and meaningful, so it makes sense to review the characteristics and role ofγδT cells in allergic diseases.
Cell Surface Lactate Receptor GPR81 Is Crucial for Cancer Cell Survival
Authors: Roland Christina L. , Arumugam Thiruvengadam , Deng Defeng , Liu Shi He , Philip Bincy , Gomez Sobeyda , Burns William R. , Ramachandran Vijaya , Wang Huamin , Cruz-Monserrate Zobeida , Logsdon Craig D.
Published: June 2014

The mechanisms that allow cancer cells to adapt to the typical tumor microenvironment of low oxygen and glucose and high lactate are not well understood. GPR81 is a lactate receptor recently identified in adipose and muscle cells that has not been investigated in cancer. In the current study, we examined GPR81 expression and function in cancer cells. We found that GPR81 was present in colon, breast, lung, hepatocellular, salivary gland, cervical, and pancreatic carcinoma cell lines. Examination of tumors resected from patients with pancreatic cancer indicated that 94% (148 of 158) expressed high levels of GPR81. Functionally, we observed that the reduction of GPR81 levels using shRNA-mediated silencing had little effect on pancreatic cancer cells cultured in high glucose, but led to the rapid death of cancer cells cultured in conditions of low glucose supplemented with lactate. We also observed that lactate addition to culture media induced the expression of genes involved in lactate metabolism, including monocarboxylase transporters in control, but not in GPR81-silenced cells. In vivo, GPR81 expression levels correlated with the rate of pancreatic cancer tumor growth and metastasis. Cells in which GPR81 was silenced showed a dramatic decrease in growth and metastasis. Implantation of cancer cells in vivo was also observed to lead to greatly elevated levels of GPR81. These data support that GPR81 is important for cancer cell regulation of lactate transport mechanisms. Furthermore, lactate transport is important for the survival of cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment. Cancer Res; 74(18); 5301–10. ©2014 AACR.
Germline Mutation of Bap1 Accelerates Development of Asbestos-Induced Malignant Mesothelioma
Authors: Xu Jinfei , Kadariya Yuwaraj , Cheung Mitchell , Pei Jianming , Talarchek Jacqueline , Sementino Eleonora , Tan Yinfei , Menges Craig W. , Cai Kathy Q. , Litwin Samuel , Peng Hongzhuang , Karar Jayashree , Rauscher Frank J. , Testa Joseph R.
Published: June 2014

Malignant mesotheliomas are highly aggressive tumors usually caused by exposure to asbestos. Germline-inactivating mutations of BAP1 predispose to mesothelioma and certain other cancers. However, why mesothelioma is the predominate malignancy in some BAP1 families and not others, and whether exposure to asbestos is required for development of mesothelioma in BAP1 mutation carriers are not known. To address these questions experimentally, we generated a Bap1+/− knockout mouse model to assess its susceptibility to mesothelioma upon chronic exposure to asbestos. Bap1+/− mice exhibited a significantly higher incidence of asbestos-induced mesothelioma than wild-type (WT) littermates (73% vs. 32%, respectively). Furthermore, mesotheliomas arose at an accelerated rate in Bap1+/− mice than in WT animals (median survival, 43 weeks vs. 55 weeks after initial exposure, respectively) and showed increased invasiveness and proliferation. No spontaneous mesotheliomas were seen in unexposed Bap1+/− mice followed for up to 87 weeks of age. Mesothelioma cells from Bap1+/− mice showed biallelic inactivation of Bap1, consistent with its proposed role as a recessive cancer susceptibility gene. Unlike in WT mice, mesotheliomas from Bap1+/− mice did not require homozygous loss of Cdkn2a. However, normal mesothelial cells and mesothelioma cells from Bap1+/− mice showed downregulation of Rb through a p16(Ink4a)-independent mechanism, suggesting that predisposition of Bap1+/− mice to mesothelioma may be facilitated, in part, by cooperation between Bap1 and Rb. Drawing parallels to human disease, these unbiased genetic findings indicate that BAP1 mutation carriers are predisposed to the tumorigenic effects of asbestos and suggest that high penetrance of mesothelioma requires such environmental exposure. Cancer Res; 74(16); 4388–97. ©2014 AACR.
Lipid Profile and Non-Cholesterol Sterols in Obese Women's Serum after Supplementing with Plant Stanol Ester
Authors: Stelmach-Mardas Marta , Walkowiak Jarosław , Zagrodzki Paweł , Grygiel-Górniak Bogna , Przysławski Juliusz
Published: June 2014

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the influence of increased plant stanol ester intake on lipid profile and serum ratio of non-cholesterol sterols to cholesterol in obese women (50 years of age) with dyslipidemia. Methods: 90 females were assigned into 2 treatment groups: For a period of 4 weeks, group 1 was receiving a yoghurt, enriched with 2 g of plant stanol ester (PS group), and group 2 was receiving a yoghurt drink without extra stanols. Anthropometric measurements included body height and weight. Lipid profile was determined by commercially available enzymatic methods. Serum non-cholesterol sterols and stanols concentrations were quantitated by gas chromatography. The study was single-blind and placebo-controlled. Results: The yoghurt drink enriched with plant stanol ester significantly reduced serum total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and non-HDL cholesterol levels (p < 0.05). No changes were observed in HDL cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels. The highest drop of LDL cholesterol was noted in the upper quartile of total cholesterol concentrations. In the PS group the statistically significant (p < 0.0001) changes were also observed in serum ratios of non-cholesterol sterols to cholesterol: campesterol, sitosterol, sitostanol, and avenasterol. Conclusion: Plant stanol esters influence the concentration of total cholesterol, particularly LDL cholesterol. This effect seems to be related to the reduced dietary cholesterol absorption.