bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Probability of ruin in discrete insurance risk model with dependent Pareto claims
Authors: Constantinescu Corina D. , Kozubowski Tomasz J. , Qian Haoyu H. 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
We present basic properties and discuss potential insurance applications of a new class of probability distributions on positive integers with power law tails. The distributions in this class are zero-inflated discrete counterparts of the Pareto distribution. In particular, we obtain the probability of ruin in the compound binomial risk model where the claims are zero-inflated discrete Pareto distributed and correlated by mixture.
Model supporting decisions on renovation and modernization of public utility buildings
Authors: Bucoń Robert 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
The aim of the research is to develop a model to support renovation and modernization decisions in the process of maintaining public buildings. The scope of the research includes, first of all, the development of a method of building assessment on the basis of many criteria, applied also in the evaluation of residential buildings, but also specific ones, related to public utility facilities, i.e.: environmental compatibility of buildings, adaptation to the elderly and disabled, fire safety. On the basis of this assessment, a set of proposed renovation and modernisation measures will be determined. In the next stage, knowledge will be acquired from experts (including property managers), who will indicate the ranges of criteria values for the adopted assessments of building utility value. This knowledge will be used to build a rules base of fuzzy inference system for assessing building utility value. The next stage of research will be conducting computer simulations with the use of a mathematical model assessing the impact of the above mentioned decisions on the increase in the building utility value and the renovation cost and modernization activities. All calculations will be carried out in the Matlab Simulink environment with the use of optimization and fuzzy methods. Knowledge of the relationship between decisions on the scope of renovation and modernization solutions and the quality measures of the maintenance process is the basis for decisions in the area of buildings maintenance. The results of these studies can contribute to improving the quality of maintenance of public buildings.
Evaluation of ring-5 structures of guaiacyl lignin in Ginkgo biloba L. using solid- and liquid-state 13C NMR difference spectroscopy
Authors: Aoki Dan , Nomura Kenta , Hashiura Masashi , Imamura Yoshinori , Miyata Sonoka , Terashima Noritsugu , Matsushita Yasuyuki , Nishimura Hiroshi , Watanabe Takashi , Katahira Masato , Fukushima Kazuhiko 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
To discuss the macromolecular structure and properties of lignin, the complementary use of solid- and liquid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) combined with a specific 13C-enrichment technique may provide useful information. The 13C-enriched lignin was prepared by administering [guaiacyl ring-5(G5)-13C]-coniferin to a growing Ginkgo biloba L. shoot. The 13C-enriched cellulolytic enzyme lignin (EL) and its acetate prepared from the ginkgo shoot were examined by solid- and liquid-state 13C NMR spectroscopy. The 13C NMR spectrum derived only from the G5 carbon was obtained as a difference spectrum based on the spectra of the G5-13C enriched and un-enriched (UE) samples. The condensed structures, including the enriched G5-carbon, were evaluated using difference spectra. The chemical shifts of the enriched G5 carbon in both the solid- and liquid-state 13C NMR spectra agreed with each other in principle. The quantitative ratio of the condensed and uncondensed structures at G5 was found to be larger by solid-state cross polarization/magic angle spinning (CP/MAS) NMR than by liquid-state NMR.
A case of post-splenectomy transfusion-dependent homozygous beta-thalassemia major complicated with myocardial siderosis and osteoporosis and usage of iron-chelating therapy with deferiprone in pregnancy
Authors: Ahmad Mohd Faizal , Zakaria Nur Zawani , Arsad Noorazizah , Chew Kah Teik , Abu Muhammad Azrai , Shafiee Mohd Nasir , Omar Mohd Hashim 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
Beta-thalassemia major is a subtype component of hemoglobinopathies; autosomal recessive disorders complicated with anemia that affect at least 50,000 babies each year. It contributes to problems in reproductive entities such as infertility due to iron deposition in the endocrine organs, which leads to malfunction of the hypothalamus-pituitary axis. Due to this, there have been very few pregnancies discovered and reported with this type of condition as they usually required an ovulation-induction agent with assisted reproductive technique to achieved pregnancy. We report a successful spontaneous pregnancy in a woman with beta-thalassemia major who underwent splenectomy with lifelong transfusion-dependence complicated with myocardial siderosis and osteoporosis. The close monitoring and regular blood transfusion are a core of successful support to this type of pregnancy. The unintentional consumption of Fosamax, hydroxyurea and deferiprone (Ferriprox) up till 20 weeks of gestation did not show any adverse effects on fetal well-being. As expected, this pregnancy ended with the preterm delivery via cesarean section due to intrauterine growth restriction with oligohydramnios, and currently, this child is thriving. We concluded that pregnancy is not a contraindication in beta-thalassemia major; complex individual care is needed to achieve a safe outcome for the mother.
The association between iron deficiency anemia and febrile seizure
Authors: Karimi Parviz , Sayehmiri Koroush , Azami Milad , Tardeh Zeinab 
Published: July 2019

Abstract

Objective
Different studies have reported contradictory results regarding the relationship between iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and febrile seizure (FS). The present study was conducted to determine the effect of IDA on FS in children.

Patients and methods
This case-control study was conducted among 52 children with FS (the case group) and 18 children with afebrile seizures and 51 children with fever without seizures in the age range of 6 months to 5 years admitted to the pediatric ward of Imam Khomeini Hospital in Ilam from March 2016 to January 2017. Patients were selected using the convenience sampling method. Red blood cell (RBC) count as well as measurement of hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct), ferritin, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) levels were performed in all patients. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS16 software.

Results
A total of 34.6% in the FS group, 66.7% in the afebrile seizure group and 41.2% in the fever without seizure group suffered from IDA, which was not statistically significant between the three groups. Hb, Hct and RBC levels were higher in the case group and MCV, MCH, MCHC levels in the case group were lower than those in the control group. The odds ratio (OR) for FS compared to the febrile group was 0.756 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.34–1.68; p = 0.493] and that for FS compared to seizure was 0.265 (95% CI = 0.085–0.823; p = 0.022).

Conclusions
This study showed that IDA may have protective effects on the onset of FS, and based on the results, IDA is more common in children with afebrile seizures. Further and more comprehensive studies are recommended.
Bayesian Two-Stage Adaptive Design in Bioequivalence
Authors: Liu Shengjie , Gao Jun , Zheng Yuling , Huang Lei , Yan Fangrong 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
Bioequivalence (BE) studies are an integral component of new drug development process, and play an important role in approval and marketing of generic drug products. However, existing design and evaluation methods are basically under the framework of frequentist theory, while few implements Bayesian ideas. Based on the bioequivalence predictive probability model and sample re-estimation strategy, we propose a new Bayesian two-stage adaptive design and explore its application in bioequivalence testing. The new design differs from existing two-stage design (such as Potvin’s method B, C) in the following aspects. First, it not only incorporates historical information and expert information, but further combines experimental data flexibly to aid decision-making. Secondly, its sample re-estimation strategy is based on the ratio of the information in interim analysis to total information, which is simpler in calculation than the Potvin’s method. Simulation results manifested that the two-stage design can be combined with various stop boundary functions, and the results are different. Moreover, the proposed method saves sample size compared to the Potvin’s method under the conditions that type I error rate is below 0.05 and statistical power reaches 80 %.
Algorithm for Determining the State of Impregnated Paper Insulation of High-Voltage Cables
Authors: Sidorova Anna , Semenov Dmitry , Cheremukhin Artem , Astakhova Tatyana 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
The paper presents a technique for determining the time index of growth of the slope of reverse voltage for double insulated cables, based on the body of the theory of series. It is proved that in the vicinity of the extremum point (maximum) the function of the reverse voltage is approximated by polynomials of the nth power. It is proposed to use second-degree polynomials for practical calculations. The method for calculating relevant indicators is illustrated using real data. Analysis of deviations made it possible to conclude that the calculation method proposed in the paper is far more accurate. In the final part of the study, it was concluded that there is a promising outlook for further development of methodological guidelines for determining complex indices of the remaining life of the cable, including but not limited to the use of various mathematical methods.
Nondestructive Detection Method for Beef Water-Holding Capacity Using Modified Test Paper
Authors: Wang Xiaodan , Wu Ruijia , Cai Yingming , Li Chunqiang , Wang Ying , Zhu Lingtao , Xu Liping , Li Xing , Duan Jinjiao 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
Water-holding capacity (WHC) is a critical indicator of beef quality. Several conventional test methods have high cost or spend more time. In this study, a rapid detection method was developed to measure WHC by modified test paper. The test paper was modified by cobalt chloride for its color turned from blue to red after contacting with water. When the test paper was attached to the surface of meat sample, its color would change. The time of color changing was related to WHC. A prediction model was built. The prediction accuracy was 90 % and the detection time was less than 1 min. The results of scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis showed that the three-dimensional network structures of the test paper were more compact and homogeneous. Accordingly, the modified test paper exhibits a more stable property and can be used for other meat products.
Is there a Function for a Sex Pheromone Precursor?
Authors: Vasieva O. , Goryanin I. 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
Functional coupling and comparative genomics analysis have been applied to study functional associations of orthologs of enterococcal cAD1 sex pheromone (P13268) known to be responsible for biofilm formation, conjugative plasmid transfer and spreading of bacterial antibiotics resistance. cAD1 peptide pheromone is released from the membrane lipoprotein with the peptide precursor encoded by a gene cad (tr|C2JQE7). Our analysis of genomic neighbourhood of cad and motifs of the encoded polypeptide and its orthologs suggests a close functional association between cAD1 and ApbE protein (Q82Z24), a FMN insertion and trafficking facilitator. The cad and apbE orthologs were coupled in the genomes and ApbE-specific motifs for FMN covalent attachment were identified in cad-encoded protein sequence and its orthologs. These findings suggest a potential role of FMN-based reductase function of the cAD1 lipoprotein precursor in its processing and release of the active sex pheromone peptide. They may lead to a new approach in prevention of antibiotic resistance spread via targeting sex pheromone processing chaperones or by suppression of the FMN availability and covalent binding. This methods can be also applied to a controlled evolution of bacterial pathogenicity in microbial fuel cells, as the findings suggest the crosstalk between bacterial pathogenicity and bacterial electro-activity.
Non-Coding RNAs and their Integrated Networks
Authors: Zhang Peijing , Wu Wenyi , Chen Qi , Chen Ming 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
Eukaryotic genomes are pervasively transcribed. Besides protein-coding RNAs, there are different types of non-coding RNAs that modulate complex molecular and cellular processes. RNA sequencing technologies and bioinformatics methods greatly promoted the study of ncRNAs, which revealed ncRNAs’ essential roles in diverse aspects of biological functions. As important key players in gene regulatory networks, ncRNAs work with other biomolecules, including coding and non-coding RNAs, DNAs and proteins. In this review, we discuss the distinct types of ncRNAs, including housekeeping ncRNAs and regulatory ncRNAs, their versatile functions and interactions, transcription, translation, and modification. Moreover, we summarize the integrated networks of ncRNA interactions, providing a comprehensive landscape of ncRNAs regulatory roles.
Specifications of Standards in Systems and Synthetic Biology: Status and Developments in 2019
Authors: Schreiber Falk , Sommer Björn , Bader Gary D. , Gleeson Padraig , Golebiewski Martin , Hucka Michael , Keating Sarah M. , König Matthias , Myers Chris , Nickerson David , Waltemath Dagmar 
Published: July 2019

AbstractThis special issue of the Journal of Integrative Bioinformatics presents an overview of COMBINE standards and their latest specifications. The standards cover representation formats for computational modeling in synthetic and systems biology and include BioPAX, CellML, NeuroML, SBML, SBGN, SBOL and SED-ML. The articles in this issue contain updated specifications of SBGN Process Description Level 1 Version 2, SBML Level 3 Core Version 2 Release 2, SBOL Version 2.3.0, and SBOL Visual Version 2.1.
Primary ovarian insufficiency in an adolescent population: clinical phenotype and diagnostic approach
Authors: Hoyos-Martinez Alfonso , Hoyos Luis R. , Comkornruecha Metee , Diaz Alejandro 
Published: July 2019

AbstractBackgroundPrimary ovarian insufficiency (POI) can be seen in adolescents secondary to genetic or autoimmune conditions, or gonadotoxic therapies. Often times, its underlying cause is not identified. It is a rare condition in pediatrics, but a thorough evaluation is required for a timely diagnosis and optimizing outcomes.ObjectivesWe aim to describe the clinical phenotype of idiopathic POI in an adolescent population seen in a referral center, and evaluate its diagnostic approach.MethodsAll patients evaluated between 2012 and 2018 were identified using the diagnostic codes for POI. Medical records were manually reviewed and clinical information was extracted. Cases were excluded from the final sample if they were found to have incomplete diagnostic information, Turner syndrome, eating disorders, gonadal surgeries and/or a history of oncological conditions or treatments.ResultsForty-eight patients with POI were identified, and only seven met the established criteria. Anti-ovarian and anti-thyroid antibodies were evaluated in 100% and 86%, respectively, while only 29% were tested for anti-adrenal autoimmunity. The karyotype was obtained consistently, while the fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) gene expansion was only assessed in approximately a third of the patients. Finally, only 29% of patients received reproductive counseling or referral to a fertility specialist.ConclusionsDiagnostic evaluation for POI appears to be challenging to pediatric providers. Anti-ovarian antibodies are frequently obtained despite the lack of their clinical significance in POI, while anti-adrenal antibodies, which are the preferred diagnostic test, are not commonly obtained. Reproductive orientation or referral is seldom provided to the adolescent population.
Placenta previa and the risk of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR): a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Balayla Jacques , Desilets Jade , Shrem Guy 
Published: July 2019

AbstractBackgroundWhether placental location confers specific neonatal risks is controversial. In particular, whether placenta previa is associated with intra-uterine growth restriction (IUGR)/small for gestational age (SGA) remains a matter of debate.MethodsWe searched Medline, EMBASE, Google Scholar, Scopus, ISI Web of Science and Cochrane database search, as well as PubMed (www.pubmed.gov) until the end of December 2018 to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the risk of IUGR/SGA in cases of placenta previa. We defined IUGR/SGA as birth weight below the 10thpercentile, regardless of the terminology used in individual studies. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. We used odds ratios (OR) and a fixed effects (FE) model to calculate weighted estimates in a forest plot. Statistical homogeneity was checked with the I2statistic using Review Manager 5.3.5 (The Cochrane Collaboration, 2014).ResultsWe obtained 357 records, of which 13 met the inclusion criteria. All study designs were retrospective in nature, and included 11 cohort and two case-control studies. A total of 1,593,226 singleton pregnancies were included, of which 10,575 had a placenta previa. The incidence of growth abnormalities was 8.7/100 births in cases of placenta previa vs. 5.8/100 births among controls. Relative to cases with alternative placental location, pregnancies with placenta previa were associated with a mild increase in the risk of IUGR/SGA, with a pooled OR [95% confidence interval (CI)] of 1.19 (1.10–1.27). Statistical heterogeneity was high with an I2 = 94%.ConclusionNeonates from pregnancies with placenta previa have a mild increase in the risk of IUGR/SGA.
Offensive or defensive play in soccer: a game-theoretical approach
Authors: Gambarelli Daniele , Gambarelli Gianfranco , Goossens Dries 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
In many sports, such as soccer, a coach has to decide whether to adopt an “offensive” or a “defensive” approach to a match. This strategic decision depends on the strengths and weaknesses of his team with respect to the opponent, but also on the strategy chosen by the opponent’s coach. The fact that a draw also results in a point, which may be important for the ranking, further complicates this decision, as the coach must assess whether it is better to adopt a defensive team formation in order to obtain a draw, or to aim for victory despite the increased risk of defeat. We study this topic by means of a game-theoretical approach, and we develop an algorithm which allows to compute the optimal strategy. The algorithm tests the stability of the outcome with respect to uncertainty in the estimated win probabilities. Furthermore, our approach can handle in-game events, which may provoke changes in optimal strategy. Finally, our model also allows us to assess the effect of various point systems on the willingness of teams to opt for attacking play. Our method is applied to a case study, based on the match Italy – Costa Rica (World Cup 2014).
Lymph node ratio versus TNM system as prognostic factor in colorectal cancer staging. A single Center experience
Authors: Moccia Francesco , Tolone Salvatore , Allaria Alfredo , Napolitano Vincenzo , Rosa D’Amico , Ilaria Ferrante , Ottavia Manto , Cesaro Edoardo , Docimo Ludovico , Fei Landino 
Published: July 2019

AbstractObjectiveThis study aims to establish the actual validity of the lymph node ratio (LNR) as a prognostic factor for colorectal cancer patients, and to verify differences of survival and disease-free interval.MethodsPatients referred with colorectal cancer who underwent potentially curative surgery between January 1997 and December 2011 were included. Lymph node ratio, TNM staging and survival were extracted from surgical, histological and follow-up records.ResultsTwo hundred eigthy six patients with different stages of colorectal cancer underwent surgery, with comparison of survival prediction based on lymph node ratio and TNM staging. The overall survival rate was 78.3%, the recurrence rate was 11.9% and the mortality rate was estimated as 21.7%. Univariate analysis in relation to survival was significant for the following variables: serum level of CEA, CA 19.9 value, degree of histological differentiation, and tumor growth. There weren’t any statistically significant differences for the LNR (LNR </ ≥0.16: p = 0.116). The TNM system was effective both in discriminating between survival stages (Stage II vs. Stage III: p = 0.05) and in differentiating sub-groups (p = 0.05).ConclusionsLNR alone could not be considered a better prognostic factor than the TNM system. However, future studies are needed in a larger number of patients with a standardized surgical, pathological and medical protocol.
America’s Higher Education: My Journey as a Taiwanese Immigrant Woman Faculty
Authors: Huang Carol 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
In this article, I apply a critical autoethnographic approach to frame my experience as a Taiwanese immigrant woman faculty in the US higher educational institutions where I served and continue to serve. I describe how I developed research agendas to produce knowledge as a means to diversify our understanding of minorities. Conducting research in rapidly changing Chinese ethnic communities with an intent to include other immigrant groups and produce cross-ethnic understanding with other researchers in digital media proved to be incompatible with the current conditions of the tenure-granting process at CUNY, and my application for tenure was denied. However, I contested the decision; and after winning my case, I engaged in institutional research on the roles of Asian American faculty in leadership in the system. I conclude that hiring and retention of diverse faculty and engaging in activism are ways to maintain academic rigor for the system.
Oscillation of nonlinear third order perturbed functional difference equations
Authors: Dinakar P. , Selvarangam S. , Thandapani E. 
Published: July 2019

AbstractThis paper deals with oscillatory and asymptotic behavior of all solutions of perturbed nonlinear third order functional difference equationΔ(bnΔ(an(Δxn)α))+pnf(xσ(n))=g(n,xn,xσ(n),Δxn),   n≥n0.\Delta {\left( {{b_n}\Delta ({a_n}(\Delta {x_n}} \right)^\alpha })) + {p_n}f\left( {{x_{\sigma \left( n \right)}}} \right) = g\left( {n,{x_n},{x_{\sigma (n)}},\Delta {x_n}} \right),\,\,\,n \ge {n_0}.By using comparison techniques we present some new sufficient conditions for the oscillation of all solutions of the studied equation. Examples illustrating the main results are included.