bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated Application of Remote Sensing, GIS and Hydrological Modeling to Estimate the Potential Impact Area of Earthquake-Induced Dammed Lakes
Authors: Cao Bo , Yang Shengmei , Ye Song
Published: October 2017

Dammed lakes are an important secondary hazard caused by earthquakes. They can induce further damage to nearby humans. Current hydrology calculation research on dammed lakes usually lacks spatial expressive ability and cannot accurately conduct impact assessment without the support of remote sensing, which obtains important characteristic information of dammed lakes. The current study aims to address the issues of the potential impact area estimate of earthquake-induced dammed lakes by combining remote sensing (RS), a geographic information system (GIS), and hydrological modeling. The Tangjiashan dammed lake induced by the Wenchuan earthquake was selected as the case for study. The elevation-versus-reservoir capacity curve was first calculated using the seed-growing algorithm based on digital elevation model (DEM) data. The simulated annealing algorithm was applied to train the hydrological modeling parameters according to the historical hydrologic data. Then, the downstream water elevation variational process under different collapse capacity conditions was performed based on the obtained parameters. Finally, the downstream potential impact area was estimated by the highest water elevation values at different hydrologic sections. Results show that a flood with a collapse elevation of at least 680 m will impact the entire downstream region of Beichuan town. We conclude that spatial information technology combined with hydrological modeling can accurately predict and demonstrate the potential impact area with limited data resources. This paper provides a better guide for future immediate responses to dammed lake hazard mitigation.
Stormwater Runoff Characteristics and Effective Management of Nonpoint Source Pollutants from a Highland Agricultural Region in the Lake Soyang Watershed
Authors: Cho Jae , Lee Jong
Published: October 2017

The dense highland field area in the upstream region of the Lake Soyang watershed is subject to excessive soil erosion during the wet season. In this study, stormwater runoff from the Lake Soyang watershed was monitored during four rainfall events at 10 locations throughout 2016. The maximum SS concentration at Naedongcheon, which is located in the upper part of the Soyang River, reached 4598 mg/L. The event mean concentration (EMC) of SS loads in Naedongcheon ranged from 82.2 mg/L to 926.3 mg/L. We found that, although the first flush events were usually concentrated in highly paved urban areas, a first flush occurred in the agricultural area of the dense highland field region. The first flush phenomenon was identified by a dimensionless cumulative runoff mass and volume curve (M(V) curve), and the intensity of the first flush was analyzed by the coefficient of the nonlinear regression model and the FF30 and FF25 values (the fraction of pollution load transported by the first 30% and 25% of runoff, respectively). Nonlinear regression models using the power function were applied to fit the M(V) curve, the FF30 values were inversely proportional to the coefficient a of the regression model. A long-term seasonal trend decomposition for monthly turbidity and precipitation was performed for the Lake Soyang. Long-term turbidity trend was approximately coincident with the trend in long-term precipitation. In addition, the present status of the best management practices (BMPs) in the upper part of the Soyang River basin was investigated, and a survey of the management and operation of the BMPs was conducted for selected farmers.
Mining Major Transitions of Chronic Conditions in Patients with Multiple Chronic Conditions
Authors: Jaramillo Carlos A. , Faruqui Syed H. A. , Pugh Mary J. , Alaeddini Adel
Published: October 2017

Objectives: Evolution of multiple chronic conditions (MCC) follows a complex stochastic process, influenced by several factors including the inter-relationship of existing conditions, and patient-level risk factors. Nearly 20% of citizens aged 18 years and older are burdened with two or more (multiple) chronic conditions (MCC). Treatment for people living with MCC currently accounts for an estimated 66% of the Nation’s healthcare costs. However, it is still not known precisely how MCC emerge and accumulate among individuals or in the general population. This study investigates major patterns of MCC transitions in a diverse population of patients and identifies the risk factors affecting the transition process.

Methods: A Latent regression Markov clustering (LRMCL) algorithm is proposed to identify major transitions of four MCC that include hypertension (HTN), depression, Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and back pain. A cohort of 601,805 individuals randomly selected from the population of Iraq and Afghanistan war Veterans (IAVs) who received VA care during three or more years between 2002-2015, is used for training the proposed LRMCL algorithm.

Results: Two major clusters of MCC transition patterns with 78% and 22% probability of membership respectively were identified. The primary cluster demonstrated the possibility of improvement when the number of MCC is small and an increase in probability of MCC accumulation as the number of co- morbidities increased. The second cluster showed stability (no change) of MCC overtime as the major pattern. Age was the most significant risk factor associated with the most probable cluster for each IAV.

Conclusions: These findings suggest that our proposed LRMCL algorithm can be used to describe and understand MCC transitions, which may ultimately allow healthcare systems to support optimal clinical decision- making. This method will be used to describe a broader range of MCC transitions in this and non-VA populations, and will add treatment information to see if models including treatments and MCC emergence can be used to support clinical decision-making in patient care.
Speckle Interferometry at the U.S. Naval Observatory. XXII.
Authors: Mason Brian D. , Hartkopf William I.
Published: October 2017

The results of 4747 intensified CCD observations of double stars, made with the 26 inch refractor of the U.S. Naval Observatory, are presented. Each observation of a system represents a combination of over 2000 short-exposure images. These observations are averaged into 2667 mean relative positions and range in separation from 0.″328 to 95.″9, with a median separation of 8.″673. Eight orbits are improved. This is the 22nd in this series of papers and covers the period 2016 January 4 through 2016 December 29.
Exclusion of Stellar Companions to Exoplanet Host Stars
Authors: Wittrock Justin M. , Kane Stephen R. , Horch Elliott P. , Howell Steve B. , Ciardi David R. , Everett Mark E.
Published: October 2017

Given the frequency of stellar multiplicity in the solar neighborhood, it is important to study the impacts this can have on exoplanet properties and orbital dynamics. There have been numerous imaging survey projects established to detect possible low-mass stellar companions to exoplanet host stars. Here, we provide the results from a systematic speckle imaging survey of known exoplanet host stars. In total, 71 stars were observed at 692 and 880 nm bands using the Differential Speckle Survey Instrument at the Gemini-north Observatory. Our results show that all but two of the stars included in this sample have no evidence of stellar companions with luminosities down to the detection and projected separation limits of our instrumentation. The mass–luminosity relationship is used to estimate the maximum mass a stellar companion can have without being detected. These results are used to discuss the potential for further radial velocity follow-up and interpretation of companion signals.
The Open Flux Problem
Authors: Linker J. A. , Caplan R. M. , Downs C. , Riley P. , Mikic Z. , Lionello R. , Henney C. J. , Arge C. N. , Liu Y. , Derosa M. L. , Yeates A. , Owens M. J.
Published: October 2017

The heliospheric magnetic field is of pivotal importance in solar and space physics. The field is rooted in the Sun’s photosphere, where it has been observed for many years. Global maps of the solar magnetic field based on full-disk magnetograms are commonly used as boundary conditions for coronal and solar wind models. Two primary observational constraints on the models are (1) the open field regions in the model should approximately correspond to coronal holes (CHs) observed in emission and (2) the magnitude of the open magnetic flux in the model should match that inferred from in situ spacecraft measurements. In this study, we calculate both magnetohydrodynamic and potential field source surface solutions using 14 different magnetic maps produced from five different types of observatory magnetograms, for the time period surrounding 2010 July. We have found that for all of the model/map combinations, models that have CH areas close to observations underestimate the interplanetary magnetic flux, or, conversely, for models to match the interplanetary flux, the modeled open field regions are larger than CHs observed in EUV emission. In an alternative approach, we estimate the open magnetic flux entirely from solar observations by combining automatically detected CHs for Carrington rotation 2098 with observatory synoptic magnetic maps. This approach also underestimates the interplanetary magnetic flux. Our results imply that either typical observatory maps underestimate the Sun’s magnetic flux, or a significant portion of the open magnetic flux is not rooted in regions that are obviously dark in EUV and X-ray emission.
The RRc Stars: Chemical Abundances and Envelope Kinematics
Authors: Sneden Christopher , Preston George W. , Chadid Merieme , Adamów Monika
Published: October 2017

We analyzed series of spectra obtained for 12 stable RRc stars observed with the echelle spectrograph of the du Pont telescope at Las Campanas Observatory and we analyzed the spectra of RRc Blazhko stars discussed by Govea et al. We derived model atmosphere parameters, [Fe/H] metallicities, and [X/Fe] abundance ratios for 12 species of 9 elements. We co-added all spectra obtained during the pulsation cycles to increase signal to noise and demonstrate that these spectra give results superior to those obtained by co-addition in small phase intervals. The RRc abundances are in good agreement with those derived for the RRab stars of Chadid et al. We used radial velocity (RV) measurements of metal lines and Hα to construct variations of velocity with phase, and center-of-mass velocities. We used these to construct RV templates for use in low- to medium-resolution RV surveys of RRc stars. Additionally, we calculated primary accelerations, radius variations, and metal and Hα velocity amplitudes, which we display as regressions against primary acceleration. We employ these results to compare the atmosphere structures of metal-poor RRc stars with their RRab counterparts. Finally, we use the RV data for our Blazhko stars and the Blazhko periods of Szczygieł & Fabrycky to falsify the Blazhko oblique rotator hypothesis.
Planetary Ices and the Linear Mixing Approximation
Authors: Bethkenhagen M. , Meyer E. R. , Hamel S. , Nettelmann N. , French M. , Scheibe L. , Ticknor C. , Collins L. A. , Kress J. D. , Fortney J. J. , Redmer R.
Published: October 2017

The validity of the widely used linear mixing approximation (LMA) for the equations of state (EOSs) of planetary ices is investigated at pressure–temperature conditions typical for the interiors of Uranus and Neptune. The basis of this study is ab initio data ranging up to 1000 GPa and 20,000 K, calculated via density functional theory molecular dynamics simulations. In particular, we determine a new EOS for methane and EOS data for the 1:1 binary mixtures of methane, ammonia, and water, as well as their 2:1:4 ternary mixture. Additionally, the self-diffusion coefficients in the ternary mixture are calculated along three different Uranus interior profiles and compared to the values of the pure compounds. We find that deviations of the LMA from the results of the real mixture are generally small; for the thermal EOSs they amount to 4% or less. The diffusion coefficients in the mixture agree with those of the pure compounds within 20% or better. Finally, a new adiabatic model of Uranus with an inner layer of almost pure ices is developed. The model is consistent with the gravity field data and results in a rather cold interior (

K).
An Empirical Fitting Method for Type Ia Supernova Light Curves. II. Estimating the First-light Time and Rise Time
Authors: Zheng WeiKang , Kelly Patrick L. , Filippenko Alexei V.
Published: October 2017

We investigate a new empirical fitting method for the optical light curves of Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) that is able to estimate the first-light time of SNe Ia, even when they are not discovered extremely early. With an improved ability to estimate the time of first light for SNe Ia, we compute the rise times for a sample of 56 well-observed SNe Ia. We find rise times ranging from 10.5 to 20.5 days, with a mean of 16.0 days, and confirm that the rise time is generally correlated with the decline rate

, but with large scatter. The rise time could be an additional parameter to help classify SN Ia subtypes.
Variation of the Solar Microwave Spectrum in the Last Half Century
Authors: Shimojo Masumi , Iwai Kazumasa , Asai Ayumi , Nozawa Satoshi , Minamidani Tetsuhiro , Saito Masao
Published: October 2017

The total solar fluxes at 1, 2, 3.75, and 9.4 GHz were observed continuously from 1957 to 1994 at Toyokawa, Japan, and from 1994 until now at Nobeyama, Japan, with the current Nobeyama Radio Polarimeters. We examined the multi-frequency and long-term data sets, and found that not only the microwave solar flux but also its monthly standard deviation indicate the long-term variation of solar activity. Furthermore, we found that the microwave spectra at the solar minima of Cycles 20–24 agree with each other. These results show that the average atmospheric structure above the upper chromosphere in the quiet-Sun has not varied for half a century, and suggest that the energy input for atmospheric heating from the sub-photosphere to the corona have not changed in the quiet-Sun despite significantly differing strengths of magnetic activity in the last five solar cycles.
Chromospheric Activity of HAT-P-11: An Unusually Active Planet-hosting K Star
Authors: Morris Brett M. , Hawley Suzanne L. , Hebb Leslie , Sakari Charli , Davenport James. R. A. , Isaacson Howard , Howard Andrew W. , Montet Benjamin T. , Agol Eric
Published: October 2017

Kepler photometry of the hot Neptune host star HAT-P-11 suggests that its spot latitude distribution is comparable to the Sun’s near solar maximum. We search for evidence of an activity cycle in the Ca ii H & K chromospheric emission S-index with archival Keck/HIRES spectra and observations from the echelle spectrograph on the Astrophysical Research Consortium 3.5 m Telescope at Apache Point Observatory. The chromospheric emission of HAT-P-11 is consistent with an

year activity cycle, which plateaued near maximum during the Kepler mission. In the cycle that we observed, the star seemed to spend more time near active maximum than minimum. We compare the

normalized chromospheric emission index of HAT-P-11 with other stars. HAT-P-11 has unusually strong chromospheric emission compared to planet-hosting stars of similar effective temperature and rotation period, perhaps due to tides raised by its planet.
The Evolution of the Surface of Symmetry of the Interplanetary Dust from 24° to 5° Elongation
Authors: Stenborg Guillermo , Howard Russell A.
Published: October 2017

The white-light STEREO/SECCHI images include light scattered by dust in orbit about the Sun (the F-corona). We analyzed the evolution of the symmetry axis of the F-corona between 2007 and 2012 in the elongation range covered by the STEREO-A/HI-1 instrument (4°–24° elongation) to characterize the plane of symmetry of the zodiacal dust cloud. The symmetry axes both above and below the ecliptic plane were derived separately without assuming any particular functional form. No noticeable time dependence was observed. However, we did find an evolution with elongation of both the inclination i and the ascending node

of the inferred plane of symmetry. Both parameters appeared fairly constant in the outer half of the elongation range studied (

values close to those of Venus’s orbit). Then, they start to evolve, becoming

(i.e., a trend toward the solar equatorial plane) and

at about 5° elongation. This variation indicates that the zodiacal dust cloud exhibits a warped plane of symmetry, with an estimated center of symmetry at about

from the Sun’s center on the side of the heliosphere containing Jupiter. We found a marginal difference between the inclination of the axes below and above the ecliptic. This is suggestive of an increased dust density distribution at certain fixed longitudes, which could be explained by the dust deposition of Kreutz Sun-grazing comets. We conjecture that the circumsolar dust is mainly affected by gravitational forces, other forces becoming dominant only where the more rapid changes occur.
Classes et nations : quelle articulation à l’échelle européenne ?
Authors: Lebaron Frédéric , Blavier Pierre
Published: October 2017

Cet article part du constat de la faiblesse du travail de « construction des classes » à l’échelle européenne, qui contraste avec l’importance persistante des inégalités entre groupes sociaux. Après avoir présenté certains des enjeux théoriques d’une analyse de classes à l’échelle européenne, et en s’appuyant sur les données des grandes enquêtes européennes ECHP et EU-SILC, on étudie le poids respectif des différences de classes et de nations en termes de difficultés économiques et de conditions de vie, et comment ce poids a évolué. L’analyse permet de conclure à une importance notable des inégalités de classes, à leur maintien voire leur accentuation dans le temps, processus variables selon les pays. L’analyse conduit aussi à souligner leur intensité plus faible que celle des différences entre pays, avec lesquelles elles interagissent fortement. Ceci invite à reposer la question des classes à l’échelle européenne en les articulant systématiquement avec les inégalités entre pays.
Les déterminants sociaux et nationaux des inégalités culturelles en Europe
Authors: Hugrée Cédric , Penissat Étienne , Spire Alexis
Published: October 2017

Alors que les travaux sur les pratiques culturelles portent principalement sur des espaces nationaux, l’ambition de cet article est de projeter l’analyse à l’échelle européenne. À partir de l’enquête EU-SILC, on montre que le revenu, le niveau de diplôme et le genre sont, en première approche, les trois variables clefs pour expliquer les pratiques de loisirs que sont la fréquentation de spectacles, de sites culturels, de cinémas et d’événements sportifs. En utilisant une classification sociale harmonisée et détaillée, les auteurs font apparaître que la position socioprofessionnelle des enquêtés constitue également un critère décisif pour dresser le profil des consommateurs intensifs de biens culturels. Si l’on excepte les enseignants et les professions intellectuelles et artistiques d’un côté et les ouvriers non qualifiés de l’autre, les inégalités entre pays semblent plus prégnantes qu’entre classes sociales. Ce résultat s’explique en partie par le fait que l’économie des biens culturels reste étroitement liée à des déterminations nationales, mais qu’il est aussi le produit de structures sociales qui restent encore aujourd’hui assez différentes.
Les politiques d’asile en Europe,
Authors: Hamidi Camille , Fischer Nicolas
Published: October 2017

Alors que la « crise des réfugiés » focalise l’attention, la prise en charge de ces derniers par les pays de l’Union européenne met en évidence non seulement des contradictions entre les engagements internationaux en matière d’asile et un souci de maîtriser les flux concernés, mais aussi une tendance récente à externaliser ce contrôle vers les pays voisins qui font de ce qui devrait constituer un droit, l’asile, l’objet d’une véritable politique en pleine reconfiguration.
Effects of probiotic bacteria on mucosal polyamines levels in dogs with IBD and colonic polyps: a preliminary study
Authors: Rossi G. , Cerquetella M. , Scarpona S. , Pengo G. , Fettucciari K. , Bassotti G. , Jergens A.E. , Suchodolski J.S.
Published: October 2017

Spermine (SPM) and its precursor putrescine (PUT), regulated by ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) and diamino-oxidase (DAO), are polyamines required for cell growth and proliferation. Only a few studies have investigated the anti-inflammatory and tumour inhibitory properties of probiotics on mucosal polyamine levels. We investigated the effects of a high concentration multistrain probiotic for human use on colonic polyamine biosynthesis in dogs. Histological sections (inflammatory bowel disease, n=10; polyposis, n=5) were assessed after receiving 112 to 225×109 lyophilised bacteria daily for 60 days at baseline (T0) and 30 days after treatment end (T90). Histology scores, expression of PUT, SPM, ODC and DAO, and a clinical activity index (CIBDAI) were compared at T0 and T90. In polyps, cellular proliferation (Ki-67 expression), and apoptosis (caspase-3 protein expression) were also evaluated. After treatment, in inflammatory bowel disease significant decreases were observed for CIBDAI (P=0.006) and histology scores (P<0.001); PUT, SPM and ODC expression increased (P<0.01). In polyps, a significant decrease in polyamine levels, ODC activity, and Ki-67, and a significant increase in caspase-3 positivity and DAO expression (P=0.005) was noted. Our results suggest potential anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory effects of the probiotic mixture in polyps and inflammation, associated with reduced mucosal infiltration and up-regulation of PUT, SPM, and ODC levels.
Time-Discrete Modelling of Industrial Compressed Air Systems Based on Equivalent Circuits
Authors: Böhm Ralf , Wurmer Florens , Schreiner Theresa , Zhang Yue , Franke Jörg
Published: October 2017

Compressed air systems (CAS) on industrial plants consist of air compressors, compressed air reservoirs, compressed air lines and auxillaries as dehumidifiers, dust collectors, pneumatic oilers and pressure controllers. It is assumed that given suitable dimensioning, those industrial compressed-air systems can be used for demand side management purpose. In industrial CAS energy is transmitted by means of pressure difference and volumetric flow rate of the transmission medium compressed air. Alike electric circuits, they consist of various functional components which are flowed through by the compressed air. Furthermore the application of Kirchhoffs laws is possible to those systems. Hence, approximation of the behavior of industrial CAS is possible by arranging and connecting those components in an equivalent circuit diagram. As additional state variables of compressed air as humidity, temperature as well as contents of water, oil and dust are also to be considered, modeling of the individual components is more extensive. A general, abstract approach for the description of the individual components in the form of blackbox representations is outlined.
Combining Optical Metrology and Additive Manufacturing for Efficient Manufacturing of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic Orthopedics: A Case Study
Authors: Jahn Josefine , Thorenz Benjamin , Kafara Markus , Steinhilper Rolf
Published: October 2017

Often, carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) manufacturing represents an expensive, time-consuming, small-scale production due to products and components characterized by complex geometric properties. In the field of orthopedic products individual molds, usually made of metal alloys or plaster, are necessary to shape the contour of the components. The presented case study focuses on individually manufactured masks for post-operative treatment of uncomplicated midfacial fractures that are frequent and typical injuries in popular contact sports like football or handball. To improve the costly process of CFRP production of individually manufactured masks, this paper describes the advantages of the combination of optical metrology (i.e. 3D-scanning) and additive manufacturing (i.e. 3D-printing). Therefore, the conventional process chain consisting of the main process steps molding (master pattern), casting (mold), CFRP laminating, curing, cutting and final assembly is replaced by 3D-scanning (instead of master pattern), followed by the revision of the CAD-model (to prevent cutting efforts), 3D-printing (mold), CFRP laminating, curing and final assembly. Summarizing, this case study on manufacturing of carbon fiber reinforced plastic orthopedics shows that the combination of innovative manufacturing technologies opens up new possibilities to increase efficiency in craft based manufacturing.
Potentials for Error Detection and Quality Improvement in Assembly Lines Using FFT, Clustering and Dynamic Envelope Curve
Authors: Sand Christian , Kawan Stephanie , Lechler Tobias , Neher Manuel , Schweigert Daniel , Franke Jörg
Published: October 2017

Conventional serial and workshop productions use specific parameter ranges to evaluate the quality of a process. Our research showed that parameters within tolerances do not ensure good quality of the final product due to malicious parameter combinations along the assembly line. Therefore, data sets from assembly processes like force-way or force-time curves and quality measurements are evaluated in this novel approach. Using Fourier Transform, k-means, decision trees and a dynamic envelope curve, classification and process monitoring are processed in time and frequency domain. This enables new possibilities to characterize quality and process data, for advanced error detection as well as a more simplified tracing of faults.
Here, holistic optimization and monitoring follows two strategies. First, a simplified tracing approach of malicious impacts regards quality results from test benches. Therefore, assembly processes are monitored and characterized by quality data. Second, defective influences, like tool break or calibration errors, are linked to variations of the usual process behavior. Here, the error detection approach focuses on process data from single assembly stations.
This approach uses three different methods. First, Fourier Transform extracts additional information from process, energy and quality data. Second, k-means algorithm is used to cluster quality data and extend the data base. Third, a decision tree classifies the quality of the final good and characterizes assembly processes. Last, results of k-means clustering and selected classification methods are compared. This combination allows to increase process quality, improve product quality and reduce failure costs.
Reactive Oxygen Species Regulate the Inflammatory Function of NKT Cells through Promyelocytic Leukemia Zinc Finger
Authors: Kim Yeung-Hyen , Kumar Ajay , Chang Cheong-Hee , Pyaram Kalyani
Published: October 2017

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are byproducts of aerobic metabolism and contribute to both physiological and pathological conditions as second messengers. ROS are essential for activation of T cells, but how ROS influence NKT cells is unknown. In the present study, we investigated the role of ROS in NKT cell function. We found that NKT cells, but not CD4 or CD8 T cells, have dramatically high ROS in the spleen and liver of mice but not in the thymus or adipose tissues. Accordingly, ROS-high NKT cells exhibited increased susceptibility and apoptotic cell death with oxidative stress. High ROS in the peripheral NKT cells were primarily produced by NADPH oxidases and not mitochondria. We observed that sorted ROS-high NKT cells were enriched in NKT1 and NKT17 cells, whereas NKT2 cells were dominant in ROS-low cells. Furthermore, treatment of NKT cells with antioxidants led to reduced frequencies of IFN-γ– and IL-17–expressing cells, indicating that ROS play a role in regulating the inflammatory function of NKT cells. The transcription factor promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger (PLZF) seemed to control the ROS levels. NKT cells from adipose tissues that do not express PLZF and those from PLZF haplodeficient mice have low ROS. Conversely, ROS were highly elevated in CD4 T cells from mice ectopically expressing PLZF. Thus, our findings demonstrate that PLZF controls ROS levels, which in turn governs the inflammatory function of NKT cells.
The Prairie Creek Embayment and Lower Paleozoic strata of the southern Mackenzie Mountains
Authors: Morrow D W , Cook D G
Published: October 2017

Lower Paleozoic strata in the southern Mackenzie Mountains are mainly shallow water carbonates which were deposited on a broad depositional shelf (Mackenzie Shelf). Dramatic changes in the position of the shelf edge were due to the inception, growth and
disappearance of Root Basin and Prairie Creek Embayment. In Middle Ordovician to Middle Silurian time subtidal "deep water" limestone, shale and dolostone of the Esbataottine, Whittaker and Road River formations accumulated in Root Basin, and shallow water dolostones of the Mount Kindle and Root
River (new formation) formations formed on the basin rim. Orange, dolomitic siltstones of the Cadiliac Formation (new formation), fossiliferous limestone of the Vera Formation (new formation) and laminated, silty dolostones and evaporites of the Camsell Formation filled Root Basin in Late Silurian
to earliest Devonian time. By Early Devonian time, Root Basin was no longer a depositional basin and the entire southern Mackenzie Shelf was covered by the shallow water and intertidally-deposited laminated dolostones of the Arnica and Sombre formations. However, the southern entrance of Root Basin
remained as a deep water embayment along the shelf edge. This embayment (Prairie Creek Embayment) was dominated by centripetal hemipelagic sedimentation with abundant sediment gravity flow deposits of detrital carbonates, derived in part from the shelf edge. Following deposition of the Arnica
Formation the region of Root Basin again received deep water shale and limestone sediments (Funeral Formation) for a brief time, but, by latest Early Devonian time, the complex paleogeography of Root Basin and the Prairie Creek Embayment was replaced by a linear depositional shelf edge, along which
shallow water fossiliferous limestones of the Nahanni and Headless formations were deposited.
Surficial geology and monitoring of the Ripley Slide, near Ashcroft, British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Huntley D H , Bobrowsky P T
Published: October 2017

New geoscience information is presented that will help reduce the economic, environmental, health and public safety risks that landslides pose to the national railways operating through part of Canada's western Cordillera. Knowledge of the nature and
stratigraphic relationships of surficial earth materials leads to a better understanding of some controls on mass wasting near Ashcroft, British Columbia, and in particular at the Ripley Slide: an active, slow-moving translational failure situated along a critical section of the national
transportation corridor. This work compliments and will help guide other aspects of a multi-year international investigation of this landslide.
A study on the effect of prolonged mobile phone use on pure tone audiometry thresholds of medical students of Sikkim
Authors: Das S , Chakraborty S , Mahanta B
Published: October 2017

Introduction:

Mobile phones have become indispensable for daily activities, and people are exposed to them from an early age. There is, however, concern about the harmful effect of the electromagnetic radiation emitted from the mobile phones.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to study the effect of mobile phone on average pure tone audiometry (PTA) threshold of the person and to study the changes in the pure tone threshold at high frequencies such as 2 kHz, 4 kHz, and 8 kHz among the students with prolonged exposure to mobile phones.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among the medical students who have been using mobile phones for the past 5 years. The effect of mobile phones on the PTA threshold in the exposed ear and the nonexposed ear was assessed.

Results:

The study shows that there is a significant difference in average air conduction (AC) and bone conduction (BC) hearing threshold among the exposed and the nonexposed ears (P < 0.05). A significant rise of both AC and BC threshold at individual frequencies between the exposed and the nonexposed ear is also noted in this study.

Conclusion:

The study conducted shows changes in the hearing threshold of the exposed ear when compared with the nonexposed ear. There are however lot of unanswered questions which provide an interesting avenue for further research. Till concrete evidence is available the only feasible way to control its exposure is to limit the duration of usage of mobile phones.
When potion becomes poison! A case report of flecainide toxicity
Authors: Bajaj S , Tullu MS , Khan ZAH , Agrawal M
Published: October 2017

We report a 48-day-old female infant, who developed cardiac conduction abnormalities and seizures secondary to supratherapeutic doses of oral flecainide. Flecainide was started in this infant for treatment of supraventricular tachycardia. The drug was withdrawn with successful normalization of the QRS complex and no further recurrence of seizures. The Naranjo probability score for adverse drug reaction was 8, making the causality “probable.” The case restates an important message that physicians should be aware of the side effects of the drugs that they prescribe, especially of those drugs which have a narrow therapeutic window.
The impact of topical Saint John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) treatment on tissue tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels in plaque-type psoriasis
Authors: Mansouri P , Mirafzal S , Najafizadeh P , Safaei-Naraghi Z , Salehi-Surmaghi MH , Hashemian F
Published: October 2017

Context:

Psoriasis is an inflammatory disorder, formed by inappropriate interaction of T lymphocytes with keratinocytes, and consequent eruption of immune responses. High concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) are found in the skin lesions and plasma of patients with psoriasis. Hypericum perforatum, a phytomedicine that has both anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative properties, has been recently reported to be clinically helpful for improvement of psoriatic lesions.

Aims:

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of topical H. perforatum on TNFα levels in psoriatic lesions for possible identification of the mechanism by which Hypericum reduces inflammation and modulates the disease in patients with plaque-type psoriasis.

Settings and Design:

A double-blind, placebo-controlled, pilot study with intraindividual comparison was conducted on twenty patients with mild to moderate plaque-type psoriasis.

Subjects and Methods:

TNFα levels in tissue samples were measured with immunohistochemistry method. Moreover, Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) scores and histological and clinical changes were investigated after topical application of Hypericum extract.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to evaluate the possible differences between the drug and placebo group.

Results:

TNFα concentrations in dermis (p= 0.025), endothelial cells (p=0.033), and dendrite cells (p=0.014) were significantly reduced in lesions treated with drug and the reduction observed in epidermis was superior to placebo (p=0.046). Results of PASI scores showed that erythema, scaling, and thickness were significantly lower where the ointment had been applied compared to application of placebo (p=0.014, p=0.004, p=0.003, respectively). Moreover, significant improvement in clinical and histological features of treated lesions in comparison with untreated lesions was observed (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

H. perforatum ointment can help decrease PASI scores and TNFα levels in psoriatic tissue. Its efficacy is probably related to its effect on lowering cytokines including TNFα.
Hypopituitarism presenting as congestive heart failure
Authors: Giri S , Bansal P , Malik S , Bansal R
Published: October 2017

Sheehan's syndrome (SS) develops as a result of ischemic pituitary necrosis due to severe postpartum hemorrhage and is characterized by various degrees of hypopituitarism. Although the occurrence of SS is now rare, it should still be considered in any woman with a history of peripartum hemorrhage who develops manifestations of pituitary hormone deficiency any time following the event. Appropriate hormone replacement therapy results in marked clinical improvement. We present an unusual case of SS in a young lady who continued to have normal menstruation after the index event, had two spontaneous pregnancies, and was diagnosed only 11 years later when she presented to us with acute heart failure.
Cytomorphological spectrum of epididymal nodules: An institution's experience
Authors: Bharti Jyotsna Naresh , Dey Biswajit , Bhattacharya Jenna , Jain Shyama
Published: October 2017

Background:

Epididymal lesions are uncommon in clinical practice. Few case series has been described in the literature documenting the role of cytology in the evaluation of epididymal nodules. This study was undertaken to analyze the cytomorphology of epididymal nodules and to evaluate role of fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) in early definitive diagnosis of epididymal nodules.

Materials and Methods:

A total of seventy cases of epididymal nodules were aspirated over a period of 6 years in the Department of Pathology. These cases were taken from the cytology record as a part of this study. The aspiration was performed using 22/23-gauge needle. Smears were stained with May-Grunwald-Giemsa and Papanicolaou stains. Special stains and immunocytochemistry were performed, wherever required.

Results:

The cytological features were adequate to establish the diagnosis in sixty cases. The lesions diagnosed were tuberculosis 16 (22.85%), spermatoceles 12 (17.14%), benign cystic lesion 8 (11.42%), encysted hydrocele 8 (11.42%), acute suppurative lesion 6 (8.57%), filariasis 4 (5.71%), chronic epididymitis 3 (4.28%), nodular fasciitis 1 (1.42%), epidermal inclusion cyst 1 (1.42%), and cystic adenomatoid tumor 1 (1.42%). Ten cases were inadequate to establish the diagnosis. FNAB was useful in diagnosis of 86% of cases. Infectious lesions of the epididymis were more common than neoplastic lesions. Patients with infection responded well to medical treatment.

Conclusions:

FNAB is an easily available technique for palpable lesions of epididymis, and it helps in making an early, near definitive diagnosis of epididymal lesions. It also helps to avoid unnecessary surgical interventions and helps in timely management.
Ketogenic diet in endocrine disorders
Authors: Gupta L , Khandelwal D , Kalra S , Gupta P , Dutta D , Aggarwal S
Published: October 2017

Ketogenic diet (KD) is a high-fat, adequate-protein, and low-carbohydrate diet that leads to nutritional ketosis, long known for antiepileptic effects and has been used therapeutically to treat refractory epilepsy. This review attempts to summarize the evidence and clinical application of KD in diabetes, obesity, and other endocrine disorders. KD is usually animal protein based. An empiric vegetarian Indian variant of KD has been provided keeping in mind the Indian food habits. KD has beneficial effects on cardiac ischemic preconditioning, improves oxygenation in patients with respiratory failure, improves glycemic control in diabetics, is associated with significant weight loss, and has a beneficial impact on polycystic ovarian syndrome. Multivitamin supplementations are recommended with KD. Recently, ketones are being proposed as super-metabolic fuel; and KD is currently regarded as apt dietary therapy for “diabesity.”
Endobronchial Epstein-Barr Virus Associated Post-transplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Feuillet S. , Meignin V. , Brière J. , Brice P. , Rocha V. , Sociέ G. , Tazi A. , Bergeron A.
Published: October 2017

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) associated Post-Transplant Lymphoproliferative Disorders (PTLD) are increasingly recognized as a fatal complication of hematological stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Thoracic involvement, that may be isolated or part of a disseminated disease, usually encompasses pulmonary nodules or masses and mediastinal lymph node enlargement.

The current case study presents 2 patients who underwent HSCT, one allogenic and the other autologous, who developed an exceptional endobronchial EBV related PTLD. The first patient had a fleshy white endobronchial mass resulting in a right upper lobe atelectasis and the second had an extensive necrotising mucosa from trachea to both basal bronchi without any significant change of lung parenchyma on the CT scan. In both cases, the diagnosis was made by bronchial biopsies. Physicians should be aware of an endobronchial pattern of EBV associated PTLD after HSCT to permit quick diagnosis and therapeutic intervention.
Sarcomatoid Carcinoma of the Urinary Bladder Treated with Adjuvant Radiotherapy: A Case Report
Authors: Onal Cem , Pehlivan Berrin , Bal Nebil , Topkan Erkan , Kilinc Ferhat , Topuk Savas
Published: October 2017

Sarcomatoid carcinoma is a rare tumor of the urinary bladder accounting for less than 0.5% of all primary urinary bladder tumors. Since the patients were presented with large tumor with extended stages, outcome was found to be poor. In order to improve local control, adjuvant local treatment may be practical. We report a rare case with sarcomatoid carcinoma of the urinary bladder diagnosed with immunuhistochemical (IHC) study and treated with 3D-conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) post-operatively. A 55-year old female patient complained about painless hematuria for 2 months. Computed tomography of the pelvic region revealed tumor and wall thickening at the left posterolateral side of the bladder. Total cystectomy with lymph node dissection and total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salphingo-oopherectomy was performed and histopathological and immunohistochemical findings strongly correlate with sarcomatoid carcinoma. The patient was treated with 3D conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) with a total dose of 59.4 Gy with 1.8 Gy fractional daily doses. Patient was alive without any local recurrence and distant metastasis 10 months after surgery.
Metabolic Complications of Bypass Surgery for Morbid Obesity
Authors: Richard-Devantoy S. , Garrέ J.B. , Gohier B.
Published: October 2017

Postoperative complications resulting from bariatric surgery can lead to severe vitamin-deficiency states. A patient who underwent bariatric bypass surgery and later developed Wernicke's encephalopathy prompted us to present her interesting case history for discussion. Although bariatric surgery is known to be a risk factor for Wernicke's encephalopathy, this diagnosis is only rarely evoked in the postoperative course. We recommend that the occurrence of digestive, psychiatric or neurological symptoms after bariatric surgery should suggest a thiamine deficiency that must be promptly assessed. Without waiting for the results, thiamine supplementation should be initiated.
Article Commentary: Dysfunction of Corticomotoneurons in Guillain-Barrέ Syndrome (GBS)?
Authors: Vucic Steve
Published: October 2017

Guillain-Barrέ syndrome (GBS) is characterized by acute and symmetric flaccid paraparesis and areflexia. Involvement of the central nervous system has been infrequently reported. In the current issue of Clinical Medicine: Case reports, an unusual case of GBS with asymmetric muscle weakness was reported. Corticomotoneuronal dysfunction was invoked as a possible cause for this neurological finding. Reversible blockade of voltage gated Na+ channels resulting in conduction failure may be a possible pathophysiological mechanism.
Severe, Protracted Spasm of Urinary Bladder and Autonomic Dysreflexia Caused by Changing the Suprapubic Catheter in a Cervical Spinal Cord Injury Patient: Treatment by a Bolus Dose and Increased Total Daily Dose of Intrathecal Baclofen
Authors: Vaidyanathan Subramanian , Oo Tun , Soni Bakul M. , Hughes Peter L. , Singh Gurpreet
Published: October 2017

Background

Intrathecal administration of baclofen by implanted pump reduces rigidity and muscle spasms. Its use specifically to control bladder spasms has not been reported.

Case Report

A tetraplegic patient developed severe, protracted, bladder spasms, abdominal muscles spasms, and high blood pressure after change of suprapubic catheter; nifedipine, diazepam, and paracetamol did not control spasms; bolus dose of baclofen intrathecally produced prompt relief via baclofen pump.

Conclusion

Severe, protracted bladder spasms, abdominal muscles spasms, and autonomic dysreflexia, induced by change of suprapubic catheter in a spinal cord injury patient, were treated successfully by a bolus dose and increased total daily dose of intrathecal baclofen.
Sequential Combination Chemotherapy of Dacarbazine (DTIC) with Carboplatin and Paclitaxel for Patients with Metastatic Mucosal Melanoma of Nasal Cavity and Paranasal Sinuses
Authors: Omata W. , Tsutsumida A. , Namikawa K. , Takahashi A. , Oashi K. , Yamazaki N.
Published: October 2017

By the recent introduction of molecular targeting drugs against BRAF mutation and immune checkpoint inhibitors, the prognosis of patients with melanoma in advanced stage is now improving, but still in the minority. Mucosal melanoma lacks the BRAF mutations, and hence conventional chemotherapeutic regimens must be improved. We have conventionally used dacarbazine (DTIC) for patients with metastatic mucosal melanoma. However, the efficacy of DTIC in patients with metastatic mucosal melanoma has been limited. Therefore, we explored other possibilities to improve the prognosis of patients suffering from metastatic mucosal melanoma. In this communication, we present a retrospective analysis of the sequential combination chemotherapy of DTIC with carboplatin and paclitaxel (CP) for metastatic mucosal melanoma of nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. The objective response rate of seven patients is 14.3% by RECIST 1.1 and the overall survival (OS) is 12.5 months. These data indicate that the sequential combination chemotherapy of DTIC with CP could be an option for patients with metastatic mucosal melanoma of nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses who are currently ending into dismal prognosis.
Lujan–Fryns Syndrome (LFS): A Unique Combination of Hypernasality, Marfanoid Body Habitus, and Neuropsychiatric Issues, Presenting as Acute-Onset Dysphagia
Authors: Khan Abidullah , Humayun Mohammad , Haider Iqbal , Ayub Maimoona
Published: October 2017

Background

Lujan–Fryns syndrome (LFS) is an extremely rare, X-linked disorder, for which the full clinical spectrum is still unknown. Usually, it presents with neuropsychiatric problems such as learning disabilities and behavioral issues in a typical combination with marfanoid features. Often, there is a positive family history for the disorder. However, sporadic cases have also been reported in males. More interestingly, there is no case of LFS presenting with acute-onset dysphagia in the English language medical literature.

Case Presentation

A 17-year-old Pakistani mentally normal school boy was admitted for the workup of acute-onset dysphagia, hypernasal speech, and nasal regurgitation of liquids. He had no neuropsychiatric issues, and his family history was unremarkable. An obvious nasal twang, facial dysmorphism, and marfanoid body habitus were found on examination. The genetic tests revealed a pathogenic missense mutation in the MED12 gene on his X-chromosome.

Conclusion

LFS can present as acute-onset dysphagia and in the absence of any neuropsychiatric issues or positive family history of the syndrome.