bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scanless multitarget-matching multiphoton excitation fluorescence microscopy
Authors: Qiu Junpeng , Wang Lei , Gao Bruce Zhi , Qu Junle , Shao Yonghong
Published: March 2017

Using the combination of a reflective blazed grating and a reflective phase-only diffractive spatial light modulator (SLM), scanless multitarget-matching multiphoton excitation fluorescence microscopy (SMTM-MPM) was achieved. The SLM shaped an incoming mode-locked, near-infrared Ti:sapphire laser beam into an excitation pattern with addressable shapes and sizes that matched the samples of interest in the field of view. Temporal and spatial focusing were simultaneously realized by combining an objective lens and a blazed grating. The fluorescence signal from illuminated areas was recorded by a two-dimensional sCMOS camera. Compared with a conventional temporal focusing multiphoton microscope, our microscope achieved effective use of the laser power and decreased photodamage with higher axial resolution.
A characterization of an isomorphism
Authors: Taghavi Ali , Hosseinzadeh Roja , Nasrollahi Efat
Published: March 2017

Let [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] be some standard operator algebras on complex Banach spaces [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively, and [Formula: see text] be a polynomial with no repeated roots and [Formula: see text], such that [Formula: see text]. We characterize the forms of surjective linear maps [Formula: see text] which preserve the nonzero products of operators that annihilated by [Formula: see text].
Narumi–Katayama index of total transformation graphs
Authors: De Nilanjan
Published: March 2017

The Narumi–Katayama index of a graph was introduced in 1984 for representing the carbon skeleton of a saturated hydrocarbons and is defined as the product of degrees of all the vertices of the graph. In this paper, we examine the Narumi–Katayama index of different total transformation graphs.
Distributed In-Memory Computing on Binary RRAM Crossbar
Authors: Ni Leibin , Huang Hantao , Liu Zichuan , Joshi Rajiv V. , Yu Hao
Published: March 2017

The recently emerging resistive random-access memory (RRAM) can provide nonvolatile memory storage but also intrinsic computing for matrix-vector multiplication, which is ideal for the low-power and high-throughput data analytics accelerator performed in memory. However, the existing RRAM crossbar--based computing is mainly assumed as a multilevel analog computing, whose result is sensitive to process nonuniformity as well as additional overhead from AD-conversion and I/O. In this article, we explore the matrix-vector multiplication accelerator on a binary RRAM crossbar with adaptive 1-bit-comparator--based parallel conversion. Moreover, a distributed in-memory computing architecture is also developed with the according control protocol. Both memory array and logic accelerator are implemented on the binary RRAM crossbar, where the logic-memory pair can be distributed with the control bus protocol. Experimental results have shown that compared to the analog RRAM crossbar, the proposed binary RRAM crossbar can achieve significant area savings with better calculation accuracy. Moreover, significant speedup can be achieved for matrix-vector multiplication in neural network--based machine learning such that the overall training and testing time can be both reduced. In addition, large energy savings can be also achieved when compared to the traditional CMOS-based out-of-memory computing architecture.
Implicit Discourse Relation Recognition for English and Chinese with Multiview Modeling and Effective Representation Learning
Authors: Li Haoran , Zhang Jiajun , Zong Chengqing
Published: March 2017

Discourse relations between two text segments play an important role in many Natural Language Processing (NLP) tasks. The connectives strongly indicate the sense of discourse relations, while in fact, there are no connectives in a large proportion of discourse relations, that is, implicit discourse relations. Compared with explicit relations, implicit relations are much harder to detect and have drawn significant attention. Until now, there have been many studies focusing on English implicit discourse relations, and few studies address implicit relation recognition in Chinese even though the implicit discourse relations in Chinese are more common than those in English. In our work, both the English and Chinese languages are our focus. The key to implicit relation prediction is to properly model the semantics of the two discourse arguments, as well as the contextual interaction between them. To achieve this goal, we propose a neural network based framework that consists of two hierarchies. The first one is the model hierarchy, in which we propose a max-margin learning method to explore the implicit discourse relation from multiple views. The second one is the feature hierarchy, in which we learn multilevel distributed representations from words, arguments, and syntactic structures to sentences. We have conducted experiments on the standard benchmarks of English and Chinese, and the results show that compared with several methods our proposed method can achieve the best performance in most cases.
The Effect of Hepatosteatosis on Response to Antiviral Treatment in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhu Yongfen , Yang Qiao , Lv Fangfang , Yu Yunsong
Published: March 2017

Background. This study is to systematically analyze the effects of hepatosteatosis on the response to antiviral treatment in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and hepatosteatosis. Methods. Systematic search was performed in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Elsevier, and the Chinese BioMedical literature databases for relevant studies published until February 2016. Treatment outcomes were compared between patients with CHB plus concomitant hepatosteatosis and those without hepatosteatosis. Results. A total of 8 prospective cohort studies (399 patients with CHB plus hepatosteatosis and 688 patients with only CHB) were included. Biochemical and virological response at both 48 and 96 weeks were significantly lower in patients with CHB plus hepatosteatosis as compared to that in patients with only CHB. Subgroup analysis based on methods used for diagnosis of hepatosteatosis and treatment regimens showed that when hepatosteatosis was diagnosed on Doppler ultrasound and treated with nucleotide analogues, patients with CHB plus hepatosteatosis showed lower biochemical (62.7% versus 75.8%, P=0.002) and virological response (66.2% versus 72.3%, P=0.006) as compared to that in patients with CHB. Conclusion. Hepatosteatosis lowers the efficacy of antiviral treatment in patients with CHB, especially when hepatosteatosis was diagnosed on ultrasound findings and treated with nucleotide analogues.
Diabetic Cardiomyopathy: Current Approach and Potential Diagnostic and Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Gilca Georgiana-Emmanuela , Stefanescu Gabriela , Badulescu Oana , Tanase Daniela-Maria , Bararu Iris , Ciocoiu Manuela
Published: March 2017

Although ischemic heart disease is the major cause of death in diabetic patients, diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is increasingly recognized as a clinically relevant entity. Considering that it comprises a variety of mechanisms and effects on cardiac function, increasing the risk of heart failure and worsening the prognosis of this patient category, DCM represents an important complication of diabetes mellitus, with a silent development in its earlier stages, involving intricate pathophysiological mechanisms, including oxidative stress, defective calcium handling, altered mitochondrial function, remodeling of the extracellular matrix, and consequent deficient cardiomyocyte contractility. While DCM is common in diabetic asymptomatic patients, it is frequently underdiagnosed, due to few diagnostic possibilities in its early stages. Moreover, since a strategy for prevention and treatment in order to improve the prognosis of DCM has not been established, it is important to identify clear pathophysiological landmarks, to pinpoint the available diagnostic possibilities and to spot potential therapeutic targets.
An Analytical Model of Multiarc Sprag Clutch considering Geometry and Internal Interaction during Engagement
Authors: Huang Chuang , Liu Ming , Zhao Yongqiang
Published: March 2017

A new multiarc sprag clutch model considering geometry and internal interaction during engagement is proposed in this paper. To increase the accuracy of the model, an improved model of geometric deformation coordination is presented to describe the basic geometrical quantities after rotation of the sprag. Then, based on this model, a novel nonlinear iteration method focusing on the varied contact radius is proposed to compute the normal contact force and show a good agreement with the FEM model. In addition, the alternate friction model considering stationary and rate-dependency friction is formulated and applied in the contacts of both the inner race and outer race. The proposed model is verified by comparison with other published results and experimental results. In subsequent analysis, the new model fully reveals the dynamical behaviors of the multiarc clutch during preload engagement under torque excitation; therefore, it will be useful for the performance analysis and dynamic design of multiarc sprag clutch.
SDF-1/CXCR4 Signaling Maintains Stemness Signature in Mouse Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells
Authors: Ho Shih-Yin , Ling Thai-Yen , Lin Hsing-Yu , Liou Jeffrey Tsai-Jui , Liu Fei-Chih , Chen I-Chun , Lee Sue-Wei , Hsu Yu , Lai Dar-Ming , Liou Horng-Huei
Published: March 2017

SDF-1 and its primary receptor, CXCR4, are highly expressed in the embryonic central nervous system (CNS) and play a crucial role in brain architecture. Loss of SDF-1/CXCR4 signaling causes abnormal development of neural stem/progenitor cells (NSCs/NPCs) in the cerebellum, hippocampus, and cortex. However, the mechanism of SDF-1/CXCR4 axis in NSCs/NPCs regulation remains unknown. In this study, we found that elimination of SDF-1/CXCR4 transduction caused NSCs/NPCs to lose their stemness characteristics and to encounter neurogenic differentiation. Moreover, Notch and RE1 silencing transcription factor (REST) both play an essential role in NSCs/NPCs maintenance and neuronal differentiation and were dramatically downregulated following SDF-1/CXCR4 cascade inhibition. Finally, we demonstrated that the expression of achaete-scute homolog 1 (Ascl1), a proneural gene, and p27, an antiproliferative gene, were significantly increased after genetic elimination of SDF-1 alleles. Our results support that the loss of functional SDF-1/CXCR4 signaling pathway in NSCs/NPCs induces exit of cell cycle and promotes premature neural differentiation.
Molecular Orientation of Conjugated Polymer Chains in Nanostructures and Thin Films: Review of Processes and Application to Optoelectronics
Authors: Vohra Varun , Anzai Takuya
Published: March 2017

Semiconducting polymers are composed of elongated conjugated polymer backbones and side chains with high solubility and mechanical properties. The combination of these two features results in a high processability and a potential to orient the conjugated backbones in thin films and nanofibers. The thin films and nanofibers are usually composed of highly crystalline (high charge transport) and amorphous parts. Orientation of conjugated polymer can result in enhanced charge transport or optical properties as it induces increased crystallinity or preferential orientation of the crystallites. After summarizing the potential strategies to exploit molecular order in conjugated polymer based optoelectronic devices, we will review some of the fabrication processes to induce molecular orientation. In particular, we will review the cases involving molecular and interfacial interactions, unidirectional deposition processes, electrospinning, and postdeposition mechanical treatments. The studies presented here clearly demonstrate that process-controlled molecular orientation of the conjugated polymer chains can result in high device performances (mobilities over 40 cm2·V−1·s−1 and solar cells with efficiencies over 10%). Furthermore, the peculiar interactions between molecularly oriented polymers and polarized light have the potential not only to generate low-cost and low energy consumption polarized light sources but also to fabricate innovative devices such as solar cell integrated LCDs or bipolarized LEDs.
Complementary Feeding Practice and Associated Factors among Mothers Having Children 6–23 Months of Age, Lasta District, Amhara Region, Northeast Ethiopia
Authors: Molla Menberu , Ejigu Tadese , Nega Girma
Published: March 2017

Introduction. The first two years of life are a critical window of opportunity for ensuring optimal child growth and development. Nutritional deficiencies during this period can lead to impaired cognitive development, compromised educational achievement, and low economic productivity. Improving infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices in children aged 0–23 months is therefore critical to improved nutrition, health, and development.Objective. The aim of the study is to assess the prevalence of complementary feeding practice and its associated factors among mothers with children aged 6−23 months in Lasta District, Northeast Ethiopia, 2015.Methods. A community based cross-sectional study design was conducted among 476 mothers who had children aged 6–23 months in the study area. Simple random sampling technique was used to select the required sample. A face-to-face interview was done to collect data using structured questionnaire. Data were entered with EPI info version 3.5.1 and cleaning and analysis were done using SPSS version 16. Frequencies distribution and binary and multiple logistic regressions were done.Results. In this study only 56.5% of children aged 6–23 months received appropriate complementary feeding, considering timely introduction, minimum dietary diversity, and meal frequency. Exposure to public media [AOR = 2.50; 95% CI:1.44,4.35], occupation of mother [AOR = 9.50; 95% CI:1.02,14.25], mothers decision making role on how to use family income [AOR = 5.54; 95% CI:1.19,11.74], and use of postnatal care service [AOR = 5.98; 95% CI:1.49,13.96] were found to be independent predictors of complementary feeding practice.Conclusion and Recommendation. About 43.5% of mothers were not feeding their children complementary food appropriately, which would have negative implication on the health of infants and young children. There was a statistically significant association of inappropriate complementary feeding practices with mothers’ occupation, postnatal care service, media exposure, and mothers’ decision making role on how the money is used. Health professionals should focus on advising and counseling mothers on appropriate complementary feeding during prenatal, delivery, postnatal, and immunization services.
Role of Demyelination Efficiency within Acellular Nerve Scaffolds during Nerve Regeneration across Peripheral Defects
Authors: Cai Meiqin , Huang Tengchao , Hou Bo , Guo Ying
Published: March 2017

Hudson’s optimized chemical processing method is the most commonly used chemical method to prepare acellular nerve scaffolds for the reconstruction of large peripheral nerve defects. However, residual myelin attached to the basal laminar tube has been observed in acellular nerve scaffolds prepared using Hudson’s method. Here, we describe a novel method of producing acellular nerve scaffolds that eliminates residual myelin more effectively than Hudson’s method through the use of various detergent combinations of sulfobetaine-10, sulfobetaine-16, Triton X-200, sodium deoxycholate, and peracetic acid. In addition, the efficacy of this new scaffold in repairing a 1.5 cm defect in the sciatic nerve of rats was examined. The modified method produced a higher degree of demyelination than Hudson’s method, resulting in a minor host immune response in vivo and providing an improved environment for nerve regeneration and, consequently, better functional recovery. A morphological study showed that the number of regenerated axons in the modified group and Hudson group did not differ. However, the autograft and modified groups were more similar in myelin sheath regeneration than the autograft and Hudson groups. These results suggest that the modified method for producing a demyelinated acellular scaffold may aid functional recovery in general after nerve defects.
Finite-Time Synchronization of Complex Dynamical Networks with Time-Varying Delays and Nonidentical Nodes
Authors: Muhammadhaji Ahmadjan , Abdurahman Abdujelil , Jiang Haijun
Published: March 2017

In this paper, we investigated the finite-time synchronization (FTS) problem for a class of time-delayed complex networks with nonidentical nodes onto any uniformly smooth state. By employing the finite-time stability theorem and designing two types of novel controllers, we obtained some simple sufficient conditions for the FTS of addressed complex networks. Furthermore, we also analyzed the effects of control variables on synchronization performance. Finally, we showed the effectiveness and feasibility of our methods by giving two numerical examples.
Ginsenoside Rg1 Ameliorates Cigarette Smoke-Induced Airway Fibrosis by Suppressing the TGF-β1/Smad Pathway In Vivo and In Vitro
Authors: Guan Sibin , Liu Qian , Han Fengfeng , Gu Wen , Song Lin , Zhang Yue , Guo Xuejun , Xu Weiguo
Published: March 2017

Small airway fibrosis is a key pathological process accompanying chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and includes fibroblast/myofibroblast transdifferentiation and excessive extracellular matrix deposition. Ginsenoside Rg1, one of the main active ingredients ofPanax ginseng, has been shown to exert an antifibrotic effect in many tissues. However, little is known about the underlying mechanism and whether ginsenoside Rg1 can exert an effect on small airway fibrosis. We investigated the anti-small airway fibrosis effects of ginsenoside Rg1 in human embryonic lung fibroblasts and in COPD rats. We found that ginsenoside Rg1 effectively reduced the degree of pulmonary fibrosis, decreased the expression ofα-smooth muscle actin, collagen I, and matrix metalloproteinase 9, and maintained the ratio of matrix metalloproteinase 9 to tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1. Importantly, ginsenoside Rg1 significantly attenuated cigarette smoke extract-induced upregulation of transforming growth factorβ1, TGF-βreceptor I, phospho-Smad2, and phospho-Smad3. In addition, ginsenoside Rg1 mimicked the effect of SB525334, a TGF-βreceptor I-Smad2/3 inhibitor. Collectively, these results suggest that ginsenoside Rg1 may suppress cigarette smoke-induced airway fibrosis in pulmonary fibroblasts and COPD rats by inhibiting the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway.
Apathy and Reduced Speed of Processing Underlie Decline in Verbal Fluency following DBS
Authors: Foley Jennifer A. , Foltynie Tom , Zrinzo Ludvic , Hyam Jonathan A. , Limousin Patricia , Cipolotti Lisa
Published: March 2017

Objective. Reduced verbal fluency is a strikingly uniform finding following deep brain stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson’s disease (PD). The precise cognitive mechanism underlying this reduction remains unclear, but theories have suggested reduced motivation, linguistic skill, and/or executive function. It is of note, however, that previous reports have failed to consider the potential role of any changes in speed of processing. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine verbal fluency changes with a particular focus on the role of cognitive speed.Method. In this study, 28 patients with PD completed measures of verbal fluency, motivation, language, executive functioning, and speed of processing, before and after DBS.Results. As expected, there was a marked decline in verbal fluency but also in a timed test of executive functions and two measures of speed of processing. Verbal fluency decline was associated with markers of linguistic and executive functioning, but not after speed of processing was statistically controlled for. In contrast, greater decline in verbal fluency was associated with higher levels of apathy at baseline, which was not associated with changes in cognitive speed.Discussion. Reduced generativity and processing speed may account for the marked reduction in verbal fluency commonly observed following DBS.
A Combined Weighting Method Based on Hybrid of Interval Evidence Fusion and Random Sampling
Authors: Yan Ying , Suo Bin
Published: March 2017

Due to the complexity of system and lack of expertise, epistemic uncertainties may present in the experts’ judgment on the importance of certain indices during group decision-making. A novel combination weighting method is proposed to solve the index weighting problem when various uncertainties are present in expert comments. Based on the idea of evidence theory, various types of uncertain evaluation information are uniformly expressed through interval evidence structures. Similarity matrix between interval evidences is constructed, and expert’s information is fused. Comment grades are quantified using the interval number, and cumulative probability function for evaluating the importance of indices is constructed based on the fused information. Finally, index weights are obtained by Monte Carlo random sampling. The method can process expert’s information with varying degrees of uncertainties, which possesses good compatibility. Difficulty in effectively fusing high-conflict group decision-making information and large information loss after fusion is avertible. Original expert judgments are retained rather objectively throughout the processing procedure. Cumulative probability function constructing and random sampling processes do not require any human intervention or judgment. It can be implemented by computer programs easily, thus having an apparent advantage in evaluation practices of fairly huge index systems.
Endodontic Management of Teeth Juxtaposed to Haemangioma
Authors: Mani Rekha Chandra , Thomas Anchu Rachel , Elavarasu Premkumar , Venkatesh Vijay
Published: March 2017

Vascular anomalies are localized defects in the vasculature that may or may not be present at birth. There are many types of vascular anomalies with different aetiology and clinical picture and, therefore, require the combined expertise of medical, radiological, and surgical specialities for its diagnosis and management. The term “haemangioma” is used as a common generic label to incorporate all types of vascular malformations. In this report, we describe a case of two maxillary premolars, requiring endodontic therapy, in close proximity to a haemangioma. The challenges encountered in the diagnosis and management of the case are discussed.
Optic Radiation Tractography and Visual Field Deficits in Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy for Amygdalohippocampectomy in Patients with Mesial Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Authors: Yin Dali , Thompson John A. , Drees Cornelia , Ojemann Steven G. , Nagae Lidia , Pelak Victoria S. , Abosch Aviva
Published: March 2017

Background/Aims: Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) has become an alternative to open-resective surgery for refractory mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE). Occurrence of visual field defects (VFDs) following open surgery for MTLE is reported at 52-100%. We examined the rate of VFDs following LITT for amygdalohippocampectomy (AHE) and correlated the occurrence of VFDs with damage to the optic radiations, assessed by diffusion tensor tractography (DTI). Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 5 patients who underwent LITT-AHE for medically refractory MTLE. We examined the association between VFDs and optic radiation damage by correlating postprocedural visual field testing with qualitative assessment of optic radiation fiber tracts. Results: Postoperative assessments showed that 4 patients had normal visual field testing, and 1 had a right superior quadrantanopsia (20%). We performed 3-dimensional reconstruction of the optic radiation, laser probe trajectory, and ablation volume. Damage to Meyer's loop was determined consistent with the VFD. Conclusions: Short-term follow-up in our series suggests that laser ablation AHE may be associated with a lower rate of VFD than has been reported for open AHE. Our results suggest that incorporating optic radiation mapping through DTI may preoperatively help to minimize the risk of VFD following laser ablation AHE.
Panniculitis Associated with MEK Inhibitor Therapy: An Uncommon Adverse Effect
Authors: Negulescu Miruna , Deilhes Florian , Sibaud Vincent , Tournier Emilie , Lamant Laurence , Boulinguez Serge , Meyer Nicolas
Published: March 2017

The combination of MEK inhibitor (cobimetinib, trametinib) and BRAF inhibitor (vemurafenib, dabrafenib) is now the first-line treatment in patients with BRAF V600-mutated metastatic melanoma. This association reduces cutaneous adverse events induced by BRAF inhibitors alone, including photosensitivity, hand-foot syndrome, hyperkeratosis, alopecia, skin papillomas, keratoacanthomas, and squamous-cell carcinomas. While panniculitis has exceptionally been reported with BRAF inhibitors, this rare side effect has never been described with the use of MEK inhibitors. We present here the first observation of panniculitis strictly induced by MEK inhibitors. Indeed, 10 days after the initiation of combined treatment with cobimetinib and vemurafenib for metastatic melanoma, our patient developed panniculitis predominantly on the upper and lower extremities. These cutaneous nodules disappeared during cobimetinib intermissions and recurred while the molecule was resumed. Recurrence of cutaneous nodules was observed after initiation of trametinib combined with dabrafenib, and resolved once again with trametinib discontinuation. We believe that clinicians should be aware of this cutaneous adverse event in patients treated with combined therapy, which can lead to unfounded BRAF inhibitor treatment discontinuation and compromise the antitumor response. Our case suggests a class effect linked with the MEK inhibition pharmacodynamic activity. Finally, laboratory investigation and histopathological examination are mandatory to exclude other panniculitis etiologies and subcutaneous metastasis of melanoma.
Early Detection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Recurrence Using the Highly Sensitive Fucosylated Fraction of Alpha-Fetoprotein
Authors: Setsu Toru , Tsuchiya Atsunori , Watanabe Takayuki , Nagoya Takuro , Ikarashi Satoshi , Hayashi Kazunao , Yokoyama Junji , Yamagiwa Satoshi , Terai Shuji
Published: March 2017

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)-L3 was originally reported as a hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)-specific tumor marker, and recent accumulation of evidence has revealed that AFP-L3 frequency predicts the biological malignancy potential of HCC. However, AFP-L3 elevation from undetectable levels after curative treatment could not be discussed due to the difficulties of calculating AFP-L3 concentrations when serum AFP levels were low. Here, as a novel method, we used highly sensitive AFP-L3 frequency to predict HCC recurrence after curative treatment. Our cases illustrate that recognizing elevation of AFP-L3 from undetectable levels led to the early detection of recurrent HCC due to more careful surveillance.
Medical and Surgical Treatment of Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Review
Authors: Scuderi Nicolò , Monfrecola Ambra , Dessy Luca Andrea , Fabbrocini Gabriella , Megna Matteo , Monfrecola Giuseppe
Published: March 2017

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease presenting with painful nodules, abscesses, sinus tracts, and scarring primarily affecting apocrine gland-rich intertriginous areas. HS prevalence ranges from 0.05 to 1%. The central pathogenic event in HS is believed to be the occlusion of the upper part of the folliculopilosebaceous unit, leading to the rupture of the sebofollicular canal with the consequent development of perifollicular lymphohistiocytic inflammation. The HS treatment choices are influenced by disease severity and its individual subjective impact, involving both medical and surgical interventions. However, given the chronic nature of HS, its destructive impact on social, working, and daily life of patients, its management is often frustrating for both the patient and physician. Hence, prompt and effective management strategies are urgently needed and a multidisciplinary approach is advocated. Therefore, in this article, we highlighted the main features of HS (clinical aspects, epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnostic criteria, classifications, comorbidities, and treatments), so that awareness of this disease might be heightened in primary care physicians and surgeons, who may be the first health care providers to see patients with this disease owing to its characteristic clinical presentation (inflammatory nodules, abscesses, sinus tract, etc.).
Acute Abdomen: A Rare Case of Ruptured Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Gloor Severin , Jensen Kai Oliver , Breitenstein Stefan , Binkert Christoph A. , Angst Eliane , Hetzer Franc Heinrich
Published: March 2017

Spontaneous ruptures of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are rare. Nevertheless they may lead to difficult decisions in the emergency situation. The acute therapies include conservative treatment, transarterial embolization and surgery. Curative treatment of HCC can be achieved by liver resection solely. The decision-making depends on prognostic patient’s factors, such as hepatic viral infection status, Child-Pugh grade, liver cirrhosis and number of tumors. In this case transarterial embolization was preferable as a bridging therapy prior to further diagnostics and therapy, to lower the perioperative morbidity and mortality. The therapy of these cases needs an interdisciplinary approach to choose the best possible procedure in each case.
Right Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernias: Is There a Correlation between Prenatal Lung Volume and Postnatal Survival, as in Isolated Left Diaphragmatic Hernias?
Authors: Victoria Teresa , Danzer Enrico , Oliver Edward R. , Edgar J. Christopher , Iyoob Suzanne , Partridge Emily A. , Johnson Ann M. , Peranteau William H. , Coleman Beverly G. , Flake Alan W. , Johnson Mark P. , Hedrick Holly H. , Adzick N. Scott
Published: March 2017

Objectives: Whereas left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernias (L-CDH) have been extensively studied and their prognostic parameters delineated, right-sided hernias (R-CDH) have not. Published results remain inconclusive. The aim of this study is to evaluate if proven prognostic indicators of postnatal survival in the fetus with L-CDH apply to the fetus with R-CDH. Methods: Retrospective single-center study of R-CDH fetuses with available prenatal studies assessed for fetal lung volume by means of ultrasound-measured observed versus expected (O/E) lung area to head circumference (LHR) and magnetic resonance-calculated O/E total lung volume (TLV) in a 12-year time period. Percentage of herniated liver volume and postnatal use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) were also evaluated. Results: In a cohort of 24 patients, O/E LHR, O/E TLV, percentage of herniated liver, and postnatal use of ECMO are not prognostic indicators of survival in the fetus with R-CDH. Cut-off values of O/E LHR of ≤45 or O/E TLV ≤25, known to select a population of severe cases for the L-CDH fetus, do not appear to extrapolate to the R-CDH fetus, as survival in both R-CDH groups is 60%. Conclusion: The findings in this study suggest that L- and R-CDH appear to behave differently, and that factors that make L-CDH fatal (low O/E TLV and O/E LHR, high-volume herniated liver) may not apply to the fetus with R-CDH.
Speed Sensorless Vector Control of Induction Motor Drive with PI and Fuzzy Controller
Authors: Gunabalan R. , Subbiah V.
Published: March 2017

This paper directed the speed-sensorless vector control of induction motor drive with PI and fuzzy controllers.  Natural observer with fourth order state space model is employed to estimate the speed and rotor fluxes of the induction motor. The formation of the natural observer is similar to and as well as its attribute is identical to the induction motor. Load torque adaptation is provided to estimate the torque and rotor speed is estimated from the load torque, rotor fluxes and stator currents. There is no direct feedback in natural observer and also observer gain matrix is absent. Both the induction motor and the observer are characterized by state space model. Simple fuzzy logic controller and conventional PI controllers are used to control the speed of the induction motor in closed loop. MATLAB simulations are made with PI and fuzzy controllers and the performance of fuzzy controller is better than PI controller in view of torque ripples. The simulation results are obtained for various running conditions to exhibit the suitability of this method for sensorless vector control. Experimental results are provided for natual observer based sensorless vector control with conventional PI controller.
Serological survey of Toxoplamosis in South American coatis (Nasua nasua) in Tietê Ecological Park, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
Authors: Maia Jéssica França , Gennari Solange Maria , Milanelo Liliane , Furuya Haroldo Ryoiti , Souza Vanessa Apafecida Feijó , Vitaliano Sérgio Netto
Published: March 2017

Toxoplasma gondii é um protozoário parasita intracelular obrigatório que causa a toxoplasmose em humanos, animais domésticos e selvagens. Apesar das evidências sorológicas da infecção por T. gondii em animais selvagens, pouco se sabe sobre o papel da vida selvagem na cadeia epidemiológica deste parasito. Os quatis (Nasua nasua) são uma espécie onívora capaz de se adaptar em diferentes ambientes. Eles são encontrados em todo território brasileiro, e em ambientes antropizados podem apresentar um contato próximo com animais domésticos. O presente estudo verificou a ocorrência de anticorpos anti-T. gondii em quatis habitantes do Parque Ecológico do Tietê, São Paulo, Brasil, pelo Teste de Aglutinação Modificada (MAT). No total, 99 amostras foram obtidas das quais 70,70% (n = 70) foram positivas para anticorpos anti-T. gondii, com títulos de anticorpos que variaram de 50 a 3200. Os dados obtidos neste estudo indicam que quatis sul-americanos são expostos a este parasito.
Race and Sex Differences in QRS Interval and Associated Outcome Among Patients with Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction
Authors: Randolph Tiffany C. , Broderick Samuel , Shaw Linda K. , Chiswell Karen , Mentz Robert J. , Kutyifa Valentina , Velazquez Eric J. , Gilliam Francis R. , Thomas Kevin L.
Published: March 2017

Background

Prolonged
QRS
duration is associated with increased mortality among heart failure patients, but race or sex differences in
QRS
duration and associated effect on outcomes are unknown.

Methods and Results

We investigated
QRS
duration and morphology among 2463 black and white patients with heart failure and left ventricular ejection fraction ≤35% who underwent coronary angiography and 12‐lead electrocardiography at Duke University Hospital from 1995 through 2011. We used multivariable Cox regression models to assess the relationship between
QRS
duration and all‐cause mortality and investigate race‐
QRS
and sex‐
QRS
duration interaction. Median
QRS
duration was 105 ms (interquartile range [
IQR
], 92–132) with variation by race and sex (
P
<0.001).
QRS
duration was longest in white men (111 ms;
IQR
, 98–139) followed by white women (108 ms;
IQR
, 92–140), black men (100 ms;
IQR
, 91–120), and black women (94 ms;
IQR
, 86–118). Left bundle branch block was more common in women than men (24% vs 14%) and in white (21%) versus black individuals (12%). In black patients, there was a 16% increase in risk of mortality for every 10 ms increase in
QRS
duration up to 112 ms (hazard ratio, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.07, 1.25) that was not present among white patients (interaction,
P
=0.06).

Conclusions

Black individuals with heart failure had a shorter
QRS
duration and more often had non‐
left bundle branch block
morphology than white patients. Women had
left bundle branch block
more commonly than men. Among black patients, modest
QRS
prolongation was associated with increased mortality.
Metabolic Mediators of the Effects of Family History and Genetic Risk Score on Coronary Heart Disease—Findings From the Malmö Diet and Cancer Study
Authors: Fritz Josef , Shiffman Dov , Melander Olle , Tada Hayato , Ulmer Hanno
Published: March 2017

Background

Family history of coronary heart disease (
CHD
) as well as genetic predisposition to
CHD
assessed by a genetic risk score (
GRS
) are predictors of
CHD
risk. It is, however, uncertain to what extent these risk predictors are mediated by major metabolic pathways.

Methods and Results

Total effects of self‐reported family history and a 50‐variant
GRS
(
GRS
50), as well as effects mediated by apolipoprotein B and A‐I (apoB, apoA‐I), blood pressure, and diabetes mellitus, on incidence of
CHD
were estimated in 23 595 participants of the Malmö Diet and Cancer study (a prospective, population‐based study). During a median follow‐up of 14.4 years, 2213 participants experienced a first
CHD
event. Family history of
CHD
and
GRS
50 (highest versus other quintiles) were associated with incident
CHD
, with hazard ratios of 1.52 (95%
CI
: 1.39–1.65) and 1.53 (95%
CI
: 1.39–1.68), respectively, after adjusting for age, sex, and smoking status. Small proportions of the family history effect were mediated by metabolic risk factors: 8.3% (95%
CI
: 5.8–11.7%) by the apoB pathway, 1.7% (95%
CI
: 0.2–3.4%) by apoA‐I, 8.5% (95%
CI
: 5.9–12.0%) by blood pressure, and 1.5% (95%
CI
: −0.8% to 3.8%) by diabetes mellitus. Similarly, small proportions of
GRS
50 were mediated: 8.1% (95%
CI
: 5.5–11.8%) by apoB, 1.2% (95%
CI
: 0.5–3.0%) by apoA‐I, 4.2% (95%
CI
: 1.3–7.5%) by blood pressure, and −0.9% (95%
CI
: −3.7% to 1.6%) by diabetes mellitus.

Conclusions

A fraction of the
CHD
risk associated with family history or with
GRS
50 is mediated through elevated blood lipids and hypertension, but not through diabetes mellitus. However, a major part (≥80%) of the genetic effect operates independently of established metabolic risk factor pathways.
Maṣlaḥa as Sovereignty: Fadlallah and Khomeini Compared
Authors: Alexander Nachman
Published: March 2017

This article examines how Fadlallah and Khomeini’s respective quests for sovereignty are reflected in their political thought, particularly vis-a-vis their notions of maṣlaḥa, which I define as the “common good.” I argue that if, to an extent, Islamic political thought seeks to maximise maṣlaḥa, then this can also constitute a claim to sovereignty, the definition of which remains multidimensional and contentious. By closely examining Fadlallah and Khomeini’s writings and pronouncements on governance, popular movement, and state, I attempt to reveal how discussions regarding Islamic governance demonstrate a broader claim to authority in Islamic history.
Who are “the” Salafis?
Authors: Damir-Geilsdorf Sabine , Menzfeld Mira
Published: March 2017

This article explores the lifeworlds of so-called Salafi(st)s in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, by examining the ways their beliefs impact upon their everyday lives, identities, and religious practices. Based on participant observation, informal talks, and in-depth interviews conducted with persons visiting mosques ascribed to apolitical “puristic Salafism” (salafiyya ʿilmiyya), the article is intended to shed light on their ways of life, convictions, and everyday practices by presenting four case studies. The subjects of our case studies show a highly heterogeneous and individual synthesis of personal guidelines for conducting what they call a “good Muslim life”, according to their translation of the role model of thesalaf ṣāliḥ(“the pious ancestors”, i.e. the first three generations of Muslims) as well as a heterogeneity in their emic identity ascription and definition of what Salafism means to them.
Revised typification of the Linnaean name Lobelia zeylanica (Campanulaceae)
Authors: KHAN RAEES , ABIDIN SHEIKH ZAIN UL , AHMAD MUSHTAQ , ALTINORDU FAHIM
Published: March 2017

A previously designated lectotype for the name Lobelia zeylanica is here superseded since the priority of type choice was violated, and a new lectotype is designated using a specimen collected by Osbeck and kept at the Swedish Museum of Natural History (S).
Description of Peridiniopsidaceae, fam. nov. (Peridiniales, Dinophyceae)
Authors: GOTTSCHLING MARC , KRETSCHMANN JULIANE , ČALASAN ANŽE ŽERDONER
Published: March 2017

The vast majority not only of dinophytes, but also of Peridiniales, live in the marine environment, and some 350 (out of ca 2.500) species are present in freshwater habitats (Mertens et al. 2012). Many freshwater Peridiniales constitute small and only distantly related species groups embedded in predominantly marine clades (e.g., Apocalathium, Chimonodinium, Naiadinium in the Thoracosphaeraceae; species assigned to “Peridiniopsis” in the Kryptoperidiniaceae; Zhang et al. 2011b, Gottschling & Söhner 2013, Annenkova et al. 2015; Fig. 1). However, the most distinguished freshwater group of the Peridiniales are the Peridiniaceae including the type species, Peridinium cinctum, and other frequently encountered species such as Peridinium bipes, Peridinium volzii and Peridinium willei.
Phylloporia lespedezae sp. nov. (Hymenochaetaceae, Basidiomycota) from China
Authors: REN GUANG-JUAN , WU FANG
Published: March 2017

A new species, Phylloporia lespedezae, is described from Shanxi Province on the basis of morphological, ecological characters and molecular evidence. It is characterized by having an annual, pileate basidiocarps with wavy edge, duplex context separated by a black line, a monomitic hyphal system with simple septate generative hyphae, the presence of fusoid cystidioles, yellowish, broadly ellipsoid, thick-walled basidiospores, and growing on Lespedeza (Fabaceae) only. Phylogenetic analysis based on nuclear large subunit ribosomal DNA (nLSU) strongly support P. lespedezae as a distinct species within the genus of Phylloporia. Detailed description with illustration is provided for the new species and its relationships with similar species are discussed. In addition, a key to all 41 species of Phylloporia is provided.
Additions of new species to Thelepus (Thelepodidae), with description of a new Terebellides (Trichobranchidae) from Taiwan
Authors: HSUEH PAN-WEN , LI KUO-RONG
Published: March 2017

Following a recent report on two new species of Thelepus for the Taiwan, we describe two more new species, T. hemeiensis sp. nov. and T. wuchiensis sp. nov., for the genus. In addition, a new species of the Family Trichobranchidae is also described, Terebellides baliensis sp. nov., which was collected from an offshore monitoring survey in northwestern Taiwan. The genus Terebellides as well as the Family Trichobranchidae are reported for the first time from Taiwanese waters.
New species of Prolachesilla Mockford & Sullivan (Psocodea: ‘Psocoptera’: Lachesillidae: Graphocaeciliini) from Bolivia and Mexico
Authors: ARANGO STEPHANIA SANDOVAL , OBANDO RANULFO GONZÁLEZ , ALDRETE ALFONSO NERI GARCÍA
Published: March 2017

The genus Prolachesilla Mockford & Sullivan presently includes nine species, all described when the genus was erected; since then, no other species have been discovered. Here, we describe and illustrate one Bolivian and three Mexican species. This is the first record of Prolachesilla from Bolivia. A key to the species of the genus is included.
The Olympic Mountains Experiment (OLYMPEX)
Authors: Houze Robert A. , McMurdie Lynn A. , Petersen Walter A. , Schwaller Mathew R. , Baccus William , Lundquist Jessica D. , Mass Clifford F. , Nijssen Bart , Rutledge Steven A. , Hudak David R. , Tanelli Simone , Mace Gerald G. , Poellot Michael R. , Lettenmaier Dennis P. , Zagrodnik Joseph P. , Rowe Angela K. , DeHart Jennifer C. , Madaus Luke E. , Barnes Hannah C. , Chandrasekar V.
Published: March 2017

The Olympic Mountains Experiment (OLYMPEX) took place during the 2015/16 fall–winter season in the vicinity of the mountainous Olympic Peninsula of Washington State. The goals of OLYMPEX were to provide physical and hydrologic ground validation for the U.S.–Japan Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) satellite mission and, more specifically, to study how precipitation in Pacific frontal systems is modified by passage over coastal mountains. Four transportable scanning dual-polarization Doppler radars of various wavelengths were installed. Surface stations were placed at various altitudes to measure precipitation rates, particle size distributions, and fall velocities. Autonomous recording cameras monitored and recorded snow accumulation. Four research aircraft supplied by NASA investigated precipitation processes and snow cover, and supplemental rawinsondes and dropsondes were deployed during precipitation events. Numerous Pacific frontal systems were sampled, including several reaching “atmospheric river” status, warm- and cold-frontal systems, and postfrontal convection.
Mongolian Mountains Matter Most: Impacts of the Latitude and Height of Asian Orography on Pacific Wintertime Atmospheric Circulation
Authors: White R. H. , Battisti D. S. , Roe G. H.
Published: March 2017

The impacts of Asian orography on the wintertime atmospheric circulation over the Pacific are explored using altered-orography, semi-idealized, general circulation model experiments. The latitude of orography is found to be far more important than height. The Mongolian Plateau and nearby mountain ranges, centered at ~48°N, have an impact on the upper-level wintertime jet stream that is approximately 4 times greater than that of the larger and taller Tibetan Plateau and Himalayas to the south. Key contributing factors to the importance of the Mongolian mountains are latitudinal variations in the meridional potential vorticity gradient and the strength of the impinging wind—both of which determine the amplitude of the atmospheric response—and the structure of the atmosphere, which influences the spatial pattern of the downstream response. Interestingly, while the Mongolian mountains produce a larger response than the Tibetan Plateau in Northern Hemisphere winter, in April–June the response from the Tibetan Plateau predominates. This result holds in two different general circulation models. In experiments with idealized orography, varying the plateau latitude by 20°, from 43° to 63°N, changes the response amplitude by a factor of 2, with a maximum response for orography between 48° and 53°N, comparable to the Mongolian mountains. In these idealized experiments, the latitude of the maximum wintertime jet increase changes by only ~6°. It is proposed that this nearly invariant spatial response pattern is due to variations in the stationary wavenumber with latitude leading to differences in the zonal versus meridional wave propagation.
Variation of the Tropical Cyclone Season Start in the Western North Pacific
Authors: Kim Donghee , Kim Hyeong-Seog , Park Doo-Sun R. , Park Myung-Sook
Published: March 2017

The variation of the tropical cyclone (TC) season in the western North Pacific (WNP) was analyzed based on the percentiles of annual TC formation dates. The results show that the length of the TC season is highly modulated by the TC season’s start rather than its end. The start of the TC season in the WNP has large interannual variation that is closely associated with the variation of the sea surface temperature (SST) in the Indian Ocean (IO) and the central-eastern Pacific (CEP). When the SSTs of the IO and CEP are warm (cold) in the preceding winter, anomalous high (low) pressure and anticyclonic (cyclonic) circulation are induced around the WNP TC basin the following spring, resulting in a late (early) start of the TC season. These results suggest that a strong El Niño in the preceding winter significantly delays the TC season start in the following year.