bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Controls on the evolution of passive-margin salt basins: Structure and evolution of the Salina del Bravo region, northeastern Mexico
Authors: Hudec Michael R. , Dooley Tim P. , Peel Frank J. , Soto Juan I.
Published: October 2019

Passive-margin salt basins tend to be much more deformed than their nonsalt equivalents, but they are by no means all the same. We used seismic data to study the Salina del Bravo region, northeast Mexico, to investigate the ways in which margin configuration and postsalt uplift history can influence passive-margin salt tectonics.

The Salina del Bravo area contains four main structural systems, all of which trend NNE across the entire region. These structures are the Bravo trough, Sigsbee salt canopy, Perdido fold-and-thrust belt, and BAHA high. Gravity-driven deformation did not begin until more than 130 m.y. after salt deposition, because of buttressing against the BAHA high. We suggest that deformation was ultimately triggered in the Cenozoic by Cordilleran uplift that tilted the margin seaward and created a major sediment source terrane. Sediments shed from the uplift expelled salt seaward to form the Sigsbee canopy. At the same time, tilted and loaded sediments were translated seaward on the Louann salt until they were buttressed against the BAHA high, forming the Perdido fold-and-thrust belt. A physical model was built to test this hypothesis. The model was able to reproduce most of the major structures in the region, suggesting that the hypothesis is reasonable.

The Salina del Bravo region shows how a downdip buttress can inhibit gravity-driven salt deformation in passive-margin salt basins. Furthermore, the area also shows the importance of postsalt uplift, which can destabilize a margin through a combination of tilting and sedimentation.
Short-term response to season of burn by amphibians and reptiles in a Florida longleaf pine – wiregrass sandhill
Authors: Greenberg Cathryn H. , Zarnoch Stanley J. , Austin James D.
Published: October 2019

We investigated how herpetofauna respond to burning and burn season in longleaf pine (Pinus palustris Mill.) sandhills by contrasting preburn species richness, diversity, and evenness and captures of six reptile and six amphibian species to the first (Y+1) or second (Y+2) year after burn or between dormant-season burns (DSB) and growing-season burns (GSB). Responses to burning overall or burn season were inconsistent among species; several showed no response, whereas others responded positively or negatively. Most responses were evident only in Y+1. Reptile species richness, diversity, and evenness responses were not detected. Amphibian richness increased after burning overall; diversity and evenness decreased more in GSB than in DSB in Y+1. Southern toad (Anaxyrus terrestris (Bonnaterre, 1789)) captures increased and Florida crowned snake (Tantilla relicta Telford, 1966) captures decreased following burns overall in Y+1. Ground skink (Scincella lateralis (Say in James, 1823)) captures increased more in DSB than GSB in Y+1. Florida gopher frog (Lithobates capito (LeConte, 1855)) and southeastern five-lined skink (Plestiodon inexpectatus; Taylor, 1932) captures increased, and oak toad (Anaxyrus quercicus (Holbrook, 1840)) decreased more in GSB than DSB in Y+2. Responses were likely due to changes in aboveground activity affecting captures or (for amphibians especially) annual variability in captures unrelated to burns. Our results indicated that reptiles and amphibians of sandhills are resilient to short-term effects of burning overall and burn season.
Modeled diameter growth response to intermediate treatments of planted white spruce (Picea glauca) affected by eastern spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana) in Minnesota, U.S.A.
Authors: Patton Stephanie R. , Russell Matthew B. , Windmuller-Campione Marcella A. , Edgar Christopher B.
Published: October 2019

White spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss) plantations have historically been an important source of high-quality forest products in the Great Lakes Region of North America. Thinning in spruce plantations is a common silvicultural practice for reducing competition and promoting resiliency to forest health threats such as eastern spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana Clemens), a native forest pest of eastern North America. Spruce budworm larvae feed on the foliage of trees, which reduces growth and potentially causes mortality during an outbreak. There has been continual spruce budworm defoliation in northern Minnesota, U.S.A., since the mid-1950s, with higher levels of defoliation in the late 1990s. This research modeled the diameter growth response of white spruce 18 years after initial thinning in stands that presently range between 44 and 64 years old. Some stands received a second thinning in recent years. We used generalized nonlinear least squares and nonlinear mixed-effects models to estimate annual diameter growth using common tree and stand metrics. Growth model performance was improved by including thinning and frequency of spruce budworm defoliation as modifiers of diameter growth. Results of this study highlight how thinning in combination with insect disturbance affect diameter growth in white spruce plantations of northern Minnesota.
Students’ understanding of fundamental AC signal concepts
Authors: Bilal Önder Esra , Önder Fatih
Published: October 2019

The aim of this study was to determine students’ understanding of fundamental AC signal concepts, such as frequency, amplitude, and phase difference. The participants in the study were 179 students (44 female and 135 male) attending Izmir Vocational School who were enrolled in the Analog Electronics Course. The data of the study were collected by means of three open-ended questions and semi-structured interviews. In the questions, students were given a graph of an AC signal and asked to draw a signal with equal frequency but higher amplitude, a signal with equal amplitude but higher frequency, and a signal with a certain phase difference. The main aim of the interviews was to provide a deeper insight into the difficulties detected in the analysis of the questions. The data analysis showed that the students confused the concepts of frequency and amplitude and had difficulties in interpreting the signals that exhibited a phase difference.
Chirality-dependent forces in simple shear flow for helix aligned with streamlines
Authors: Zhang Qi-Yi , Yang Wen-Yan , Hu Kai-Yan
Published: October 2019

We consider the chiral properties for a helix in uniform shear flow. We decompose the helical structure into arrays of [Formula: see text] closely packed beads with radius [Formula: see text]. In low Reynolds number regime, the chirality-specific lift forces in the vorticity direction experienced by helices are given by a set of helix geometry parameters: helix radius [Formula: see text], pitch length [Formula: see text], number of turns [Formula: see text] and helix phase angle [Formula: see text]. The analytical formula of the force is firstly given. The chirality-specific forces are the physical reasons for the chiral separation of helices in shear flow. Our results provide new insights into the separations of all kinds of chiral objects.
Experimental observation of a cyclic dynamics of solitons in a fiber laser
Authors: Mallek-Bouras D. , Boukhaoui D. , Amroun-Aliane D. , Becheker R. , Kellou A.
Published: October 2019

We report an experimental observation of a singular soliton dynamics in a mode-locked erbium doped fiber laser. This is the first time, to our knowledge, that output intensity exhibits a cyclic transition from a single-pulse to a multi-pulse regime for a fixed value of both pumping power and polarization controllers orientation. Moreover, the pulse duration of the single- and multi-pulse regimes is the same, in contrast with what is usually observed.
Pricing Strategies for Competing Adaptive Retailers Facing Complex Consumer Behavior: Agent-based Model
Authors: Du Heng , Xiao Tiaojun
Published: October 2019

This paper examines pricing strategies for two adaptive retailers competing on two products in the presence of complex consumer behavior, where consumers own heterogeneous product and store valuations and the number of potential consumers is random. Each retailer can choose one from two pricing strategies: the uniform pricing format (offering the same price for two products) or the differentiated pricing format (offering different prices). Utilizing agent-based model (each retailer is modeled as an autonomous agent with the reinforcement learning behavior), we find that: (i) the differentiated pricing format is not always the optimal choice; (ii) when the uncertainty of one product/store valuation is a little larger than that of the rival, both retailers should adopt uniform pricing. Besides, when wholesale price contract is endogenous, we find that supplier’s pricing behavior can change the impact of the fixed cost on the pricing strategy.
CEO COMPENSATION AND FIRM INNOVATION: MODERATING ROLE OF OWNERSHIP CONCENTRATION
Authors: ZULFIQAR MUHAMMAD , HUSSAIN KHALID
Published: October 2019

A performance-based CEO compensation plan can help organisations incorporate an innovative culture. Concentrated ownership structure can enable shareholders to play a key role in the strategic decision-making of a company by exercising their statutory rights. Purpose of this paper is to understand the moderating impact of ownership concentration on the nexus of CEO compensation and firm innovation relationship. Data about all A-share non-financial companies listed at the Shanghai Stock Exchange and Shenzhen Stock Exchange is obtained from CSMAR database of China. Panel data analysis by using year and industry effects indicates that CEO compensation positively and significantly affects organisational innovation. Furthermore, ownership concentration as measured by top 5 shareholders strengthens this relationship. Findings of this study can help investors, policymakers and creditors to understand the importance of CEO compensation towards innovation in the presence of a concentrated ownership structure. Chinese economy is the fastest growing developing economy and therefore, Chinese contextual findings may be selected as a benchmark for other developing countries.
The Effect of the Mainshock–Aftershock on the Estimation of the Separation Gap of Regular and Irregular Adjacent Structures with the Soft Story
Authors: Khatami Mostafa , Gerami Mohsen , Kheyroddin Ali , Siahpolo Navid
Published: October 2019

One way for decreasing the effect of pounding is to set the separation gap between two adjacent buildings. On the one hand, earthquakes in earthquake-prone zones often occur as a chain of successive earth movements in the form of foreshock, mainshock and aftershock. On the other hand, the existence of soft story in the lowest story of the structure is the most common type of irregularity in lateral stiffness. This paper investigates the effect of seismic sequences to estimate the separation gap at the highest collision level of two adjacent structures. For this purpose, 335 adjacent combinations of regular and irregular steel moment-resisting frames are evaluated which have a soft story on the first story. Separation gap demand is calculated using dynamic analysis of nonlinear time history under a set of seismic sequences which are a combination of the mainshock and aftershock. Results of the total of analysis done show the seismic sequence effects are significant and should be considered in the process of determining the normal separation gap (here after, NSG). Finally, based on the done studies, an empirical relationship is presented to estimate the seismic sequence effects on separation gap of two regular and irregular adjacent structures.
Commutativity of semirings with involution
Authors: Ali Liaqat , Aslam M. , Khan Yaqoub Ahmed
Published: October 2019

We introduce ∗-primeness and ∗-semiprimeness for a certain class of semirings called MA-Semirings. We prove some results on derivations satisfying certain conditions under which ∗-prime and ∗-semiprime semirings become commutative.
Improving TSP Tours Using Dynamic Programming over Tree Decompositions
Authors: Cygan Marek , Kowalik Łukasz , Socała Arkadiusz
Published: October 2019

Given a traveling salesman problem (TSP) tour
H
in graph
G
, a
k
-move is an operation that removes
k
edges from
H
and adds
k
edges of
G
so that a new tour
H
′
is formed. The popular
k
-OPT heuristic for TSP finds a local optimum by starting from an arbitrary tour
H
and then improving it by a sequence of
k
-moves.

Until 2016, the only known algorithm to find an improving
k
-move for a given tour was the naive solution in time
O
(
n

k

). At ICALP’16, de Berg, Buchin, Jansen, and Woeginger showed an
O
(
n

⌊2
k
/3⌋+1

)-time algorithm.

We show an algorithm that runs in
O
(
n

(1/4+ϵ

k

)
k

) time, where lim

k
→ ∞

ϵ

k

= 0. It improves over the state of the art for every
k
≥ 5. For the most practically relevant case
k
= 5, we provide a slightly refined algorithm running in
O
(
n
3.4
) time. We also show that for the
k
= 4 case, improving over the
O
(
n
3
)-time algorithm of de Berg et al. would be a major breakthrough: An
O
(
n
3−ϵ
)-time algorithm for any ϵ > 0 would imply an
O
(
n
3−δ
)-time algorithm for the A
ll
P
airs
S
hortest
P
aths
problem, for some δ > 0.
Verification Methods for the Computationally Complete Symbolic Attacker Based on Indistinguishability
Authors: Bana Gergei , Chadha Rohit , Eeralla Ajay Kumar , Okada Mitsuhiro
Published: October 2019

In recent years, a new approach has been developed for verifying security protocols with the aim of combining the benefits of symbolic attackers and the benefits of unconditional soundness: the technique of the computationally complete symbolic attacker of Bana and Comon (BC) [8]. In this article, we argue that the real breakthrough of this technique is the recent introduction of its version for indistinguishability [9], because, with the extensions we introduce here, for the first time, there is a computationally sound symbolic technique that is syntactically strikingly simple, to which translating standard computational security notions is a straightforward matter, and that can be effectively used for verification of not only equivalence properties but trace properties of protocols as well. We first fully develop the core elements of this newer version by introducing several new axioms. We illustrate the power and the diverse use of the introduced axioms on simple examples first. We introduce an axiom expressing the Decisional Diffie-Hellman property. We analyze the Diffie-Hellman key exchange, both in its simplest form and an authenticated version as well. We provide computationally sound verification of real-or-random secrecy of the Diffie-Hellman key exchange protocol for multiple sessions, without any restrictions on the computational implementation other than the DDH assumption. We also show authentication for a simplified version of the station-to-station protocol using UF-CMA assumption for digital signatures. Finally, we axiomatize IND-CPA, IND-CCA1, and IND-CCA2 security properties and illustrate their usage. We have formalized the axiomatic system in an interactive theorem prover, Coq, and have machine-checked the proofs of various auxiliary theorems and security properties of Diffie-Hellman and station-to-station protocol.
Monadic Datalog, Tree Validity, and Limited Access Containment
Authors: Benedikt Michael , Bourhis Pierre , Gottlob Georg , Senellart Pierre
Published: October 2019

We reconsider the problem of containment of monadic datalog (MDL) queries in unions of conjunctive queries (UCQs). Prior work has dealt with special cases of the problem but has left the precise complexity characterization open. In addition, the complexity of one important special case, that of containment under access patterns, was not known before. We start by revisiting the connection between MDL/UCQ containment and containment problems involving regular tree languages. We then present a general approach for getting tighter bounds on the complexity of query containment, based on analysis of the number of mappings of queries into tree-like instances. We give two applications of the machinery. We first give an important special case of the MDL/UCQ containment problem that is in EXPTIME, and we use this bound to show an EXPTIME bound on containment under access patterns. Second, we show that the same technique can be used to get a new tight upper bound for containment of tree automata in UCQs. We finally show that the new MDL/UCQ upper bounds are tight. We establish a 2EXPTIME lower bound on the MDL/UCQ containment problem, resolving an open problem from the early 1990s. This bound holds for the MDL/CQ containment problem as well. We also show that changes to the conditions given in our special cases can not be eliminated, and that in particular slight variations of the problem of containment under access patterns become 2EXPTIME-complete.
Boosting Search Performance Using Query Variations
Authors: Benham Rodger , Mackenzie Joel , Moffat Alistair , Culpepper J. Shane
Published: October 2019

Rank fusion is a powerful technique that allows multiple sources of information to be combined into a single result set. Query variations covering the same information need represent one way in which different sources of information might arise. However, when implemented in the obvious manner, fusion over query variations is not cost-effective, at odds with the usual web-search requirement for strict per-query efficiency guarantees. In this work, we propose a novel solution to query fusion by splitting the computation into two parts: one phase that is carried out offline, to generate pre-computed centroid answers for queries addressing broadly similar information needs, and then a second online phase that uses the corresponding topic centroid to compute a result page for each query. To achieve this, we make use of score-based fusion algorithms whose costs can be amortized via the pre-processing step and that can then be efficiently combined during subsequent per-query re-ranking operations. Experimental results using the ClueWeb12B collection and the UQV100 query variations demonstrate that centroid-based approaches allow improved retrieval effectiveness at little or no loss in query throughput or latency and within reasonable pre-processing requirements. We additionally show that queries that do not match any of the pre-computed clusters can be accurately identified and efficiently processed in our proposed ranking pipeline.
Relevance Feedback
Authors: Raiber Fiana , Kurland Oren
Published: October 2019

Document retrieval methods that utilize relevance feedback often induce a single query model from the set of feedback documents, specifically, the relevant documents. We empirically show that for a few state-of-the-art query-model induction methods, retrieval performance can be significantly improved by constructing the query model from a subset of the relevant documents rather than from all of them. Motivated by this finding, we propose a new approach for relevance-feedback-based retrieval. The approach, derived from the risk minimization framework, is based on utilizing multiple query models induced from all subsets of the given relevant documents. Empirical evaluation shows that the approach posts performance that is statistically significantly better than that of applying the standard practice of utilizing a single query model induced from the relevant documents. While the average relative improvements are small to moderate, the robustness of the approach is substantially higher than that of a variety of reference comparison methods that address various challenges in using relevance feedback.
The Social Organization of Sexual Assault
Authors: Khan Shamus , Greene Joss , Mellins Claude Ann , Hirsch Jennifer S.
Published: October 2019

In this review, we provide an overview of the literature on sexual assault. First, we define sexual assault, noting its multiple dimensions and the consequences for operationalization—including reviewing strategies for such operationalization. Second, we outline different approaches to sexual assault, critically assessing those frameworks that rely upon a model of sociopathy; instead, we propose focusing on more sociological and ecological understandings that push beyond the single dimension of gender and the framework of gender and power. Third, we outline the range of data sources that have been used to generate insights into sexual assault. Fourth, we provide the core research findings of the field, which at times are contradictory, mapping them to our ecological model of individual, relational, organizational, and cultural levels. We then review the evidence around those interventions that have been successful in addressing sexual assault (and those that have been unsuccessful) before concluding with suggestions for further research directions.
Prevalence, Causes, and Factors Associated with Visual Impairment and Blindness among Registered Pensioners in Ghana
Authors: Nuertey Benjamin D. , Amissah-Arthur Kwesi Nyan , Addai Joyce , Adongo Victor , Nuertey Augustine D. , Kabutey Clement , Mensah Isaac Asimadu , Biritwum Richard Bekoe
Published: October 2019

Purpose. To determine the prevalence, causes, and factors associated with presenting visual impairment and blindness among pensioners. Design. A nationwide cross-sectional study. This study was part of the analysis on data obtained in the pensioners’ medical survey conducted among members of the National Pensioners Association in Ghana. Method. (i) Setting: it was a multicenter study involving thirteen centers throughout Ghana with a center in each regional capital. (ii) Study population: the study involved 4813 pensioners. (iii) Observation procedures: data were captured through the use of questionnaires, physical examinations including eye examinations, and urine and blood sample analysis. (iv) Main outcome measure: presenting visual impairment and blindness (as defined by the WHO ICD-10 classification). Results. The overall prevalence of blindness among pensioners in Ghana was 3.8% (95% CI = 3.2–4.4), while the prevalence of moderate and severe visual impairment was 21.7% (95% CI = 20.5–23.0). The prevalence of blindness was lowest in the 60–65-year-old age group (2.1% (95% CI = 1.3–2.8)) and highest in the above 80-year-old age group (12.2% (95% CI = 6.6–17.8)). Cataract was the leading cause of blindness (62.4%) and moderate and severe visual impairment (55.7%). Factors significantly associated with blindness and visual impairment include educational status, vegetarianism, arthritis, and having proteins in urine. Conclusion. There is a high prevalence of visual impairment and blindness among the pensioners in Ghana. Sadly, the greatest cause was cataract, which is correctable. Increase in formal education status will be important in the prevention of blindness and visual impairment.
Atypical Mycobacterial Infection Arising Amid Corticosteroid Therapy for Livedoid Vasculopathy
Authors: Edminister John R. , Dominiak Nicole , Gottwald Lorie D.
Published: October 2019

Patients who suffer from rare skin diseases may try numerous therapies with many potential side effects before achieving remission. Livedoid vasculopathy (LV) is one such rare disease that lacks a definitive treatment as evidenced by randomized controlled trials. Although corticosteroids help reduce the pain flares associated with LV, they come at the risk of immunosuppression. We present a case of disseminated cutaneous infection of M. chelonae/abscessus arising in a diabetic patient on long-term corticosteroid therapy. This patient required an intensive antibiotic regimen and potentially lifelong antibiotic suppression pending improvement of her disseminated cutaneous infection. We report this case to increase awareness of the diagnostic consideration of atypical, rapidly growing mycobacterial (RGM) infection when encountering patients with a diffuse onset of ulcerative skin nodules amid a background of diabetes and long-term corticosteroid use.
Cytokine Profile in Early Infection byLeptospira interrogansin A/J Mice
Authors: Bavia Lorena , de Castro Íris A. , Amano Mariane Tami , da Silva Ana Maria Gonçalves , Vasconcellos Silvio Arruda , Isaac Lourdes
Published: October 2019

Leptospirosis is considered a neglected disease with an estimated more than one million cases every year. Since rodents are at the same time the main reservoir and generally asymptomatic toLeptospirainfection, understanding why some animal species are resistant and others are susceptible to this infection would shed some light in how to control this important zoonosis. The innate immune response againstLeptospirais mainly dependent on phagocytosis and activation of the Complement System. In this context, cytokines may drive the early control of infection and the adaptive response. Since the Complement System is important to eliminate leptospiresin vivo, we investigated if Complement C5 in A/J mice would modulate the cytokine production during infection byLeptospira interrogansserovar Kennewicki type Pomona Fromm (LPF). Thus, our aim was to investigate the systemic levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines duringLeptospirainfection in the blood, liver, lung, and kidney on the third and sixth days of infection in A/J C5+/+and A/J C5-/-mice. Blood levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IFN-γ, and MCP-1 reached a peak on the third day. Although both mouse strains developed splenomegaly, similar histopathological alterations in the liver and the lung, levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines were different. A/J C5+/+mice had higher levels of liver IL-10, IL-1β, IL-12p40, and IL-12p70 and kidney IL-1β, IL-12p40, and IL-12p70 on the sixth day of infection when compared to A/J C5-/-mice. Our results showed that in A/J genetic background, the Complement component C5 modulates a cytokine profile in the liver and kidney of infected mice, which may play a role in the control of disease progression.
External Control Viral-Like Particle Construction for Detection of Emergent Arboviruses by Real-Time Reverse-Transcription PCR
Authors: Borghetti Ivo Alberto , Zambenedetti Miriam Ribas , Requião Luciana , Vieira Deusilene Souza , Krieger Marco Aurélio , de Cássia Pontello Rampazzo Rita
Published: October 2019

Arboviruses have been emerging and reemerging worldwide, predominantly in tropical and subtropical areas. As many arbovirus infections, including dengue (DENV), Zika (ZIKV), and chikungunya (CHIKV), have similar signs and symptoms, clinical diagnosis of arbovirus infections is challenging. Therefore, reliable laboratory tests are necessary to improve the clinical management of patients with suspected arbovirus infections. Real-time reverse-transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) is among the more effective methods to distinguish these viruses. The aim of this study was to construct a unique positive external control derived from a unique plasmid using genetic engineering for specific use in RT-qPCR assays to detect Zika, dengue (1–4), and chikungunya. An external control derived from the MS2 bacteriophage was constructed using sequences from arbovirus and human genomes. Laboratories were asked to test the control in the ZDC Biomol kit, a RT-qPCR kit which is able to detect Zika, dengue serotypes 1–4, chikungunya, and an internal human control. RNA extracted from the external control was able to be amplified and detected in RT-qPCR assays for each virus detected by using the ZDC Biomol kit. The external control, samples from viral culture, and infected patient samples display similar amplification using this assay. The pET47b(+)MS2-ZDC vector is a viable expression system for the production of external control viral-like particles (MS2-ZDC). The RNA from the recombinant particles can be easily extracted and can function as a tool to validate all steps of process from the extraction to the amplification of all targets in specific reaction. Thus, the MS2-ZDC particles are laboratory-safe in order to avoid risk for operators, and the phages are effective as positive control for use in the ZDC Biomol kit amplifying all kit targets making them effective for commercial profile.
A Time‐Dependent Double Hardening Model for Soft Rock
Authors: Siddiquee Mohammed Saiful Alam , Hamdi Amin
Published: October 2019

The time‐dependent behavior of soft rock is very important in tunnel construction through soft rock. There is always a chance of creep failure due to sustained loading along the crest of the tunnel. In this research, a three‐component elasto‐visco‐plastic framework is used to develop a time‐dependent double hardening model to predict the behavior of soft rock both in compression and shear. Due to the limitation of time‐dependent single yield hardening model in predicting the behavior of soft rock in compression direction (volumetric deformation) of loading, another time‐dependent yield surface is added to the compression direction. The intersection of two‐yield surface usually gives rise to singularity phenomenon, which is avoided by using Koiter’s generalization principle. A new formulation of the stress‐integration of incremental stress‐strain equations is proposed. A series of triaxial compression tests were carried out at different strain rates to calculate the model parameters. Then, the model is used to simulate the various behavioral features of soft rock.
Impact of the Four-Sideband and Two-Sideband Theories in Designing of Fiber Optical Parametric Amplifiers
Authors: Nyachionjeka Kumbirayi , Tarus Hillary , Langat Philip Kibet
Published: October 2019

In this paper, we seek to compare the two design theories for fiber optical parametric amplifier through simulation. The two-sideband method (standard method) has been the most widely used method in fiber optical parametric amplifier design, but it does not predict the gain shrinkage around the pumps. This technique does not consider the gain shrinking dynamics around the pump(s). The four-sideband analytical technique is an alternative technique for fiber optical parametric amplifier design, and it allows for a simplified investigation of the gain shrinking dynamics around the pump(s) due to the interaction of the various arising high-order idlers within the vicinity of the pump waves. The undertaking in this paper is to present a dual-pump fiber amplifier based on the highly nonlinear fiber and another one based on the photonic crystal fiber and ascertain if gain shrinking affects both FOPAs.
Solid Indeterminate Nodules with a Radiological Stability Suggesting Benignity: A Texture Analysis of Computed Tomography Images Based on the Kurtosis and Skewness of the Nodule Volume Density Histogram
Authors: Borguezan Bruno Max , Lopes Agnaldo José , Saito Eduardo Haruo , Higa Claudio , Silva Aristófanes Corrêa , Nunes Rodolfo Acatauassú
Published: October 2019

Background. The number of incidental findings of pulmonary nodules using imaging methods to diagnose other thoracic or extrathoracic conditions has increased, suggesting the need for in-depth radiological image analyses to identify nodule type and avoid unnecessary invasive procedures. Objectives. The present study evaluated solid indeterminate nodules with a radiological stability suggesting benignity (SINRSBs) through a texture analysis of computed tomography (CT) images. Methods. A total of 100 chest CT scans were evaluated, including 50 cases of SINRSBs and 50 cases of malignant nodules. SINRSB CT scans were performed using the same noncontrast enhanced CT protocol and equipment; the malignant nodule data were acquired from several databases. The kurtosis (KUR) and skewness (SKW) values of these tests were determined for the whole volume of each nodule, and the histograms were classified into two basic patterns: peaks or plateaus. Results. The mean (MEN) KUR values of the SINRSBs and malignant nodules were 3.37 ± 3.88 and 5.88 ± 5.11, respectively. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve showed that the sensitivity and specificity for distinguishing SINRSBs from malignant nodules were 65% and 66% for KUR values >6, respectively, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.709 (p<0.0001). The MEN SKW values of the SINRSBs and malignant nodules were 1.73 ± 0.94 and 2.07 ± 1.01, respectively. The ROC curve showed that the sensitivity and specificity for distinguishing malignant nodules from SINRSBs were 65% and 66% for SKW values >3.1, respectively, with an AUC of 0.709 (p<0.0001). An analysis of the peak and plateau histograms revealed sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy values of 84%, 74%, and 79%, respectively. Conclusions. KUR, SKW, and histogram shape can help to noninvasively diagnose SINRSBs but should not be used alone or without considering clinical data.
Predictors for Unfavorable Early Outcomes in Elective Total Hip Arthroplasty: Does Extreme Body Mass Index Matter?
Authors: Hung Chun-Yu , Chang Chih-Hsiang , Lin Yu-Chih , Lee Shen-Hsun , Chen Szu-Yuan , Hsieh Pang-Hsin
Published: October 2019

Background. Studies of previous cohorts have demonstrated a controversial association between extreme body mass index (BMI) and complication rates following total hip arthroplasty (THA). The purpose of this study was to compare 30-day perioperative complications in underweight (BMI <18.50 kg/m2), normal-weight (BMI 18.50–24.99 kg/m2), overweight (BMI 25.00–29.99 kg/m2), class I obesity (BMI 30.00–34.99 kg/m2), and morbidly obese (BMI ≥35.00 kg/m2) groups.Methods. We performed a cohort study including patients who underwent unilateral primary THA by a single surgeon between January 2010 and December 2015 at our institution. We assessed 30-day complications, operation time, operative blood loss, and length of hospital stay.Results. We identified 1565 primary THAs that were performed in patients with varying BMI levels. Compared with the normal-weight patients, the morbidly obese group had a higher 30-day complication rate (8.9% vs. 2.4%), longer operative time (79 minutes vs. 70 minutes), and more blood loss (376 mL vs. 302 mL). Underweight patients did not present any 30-day complications, and there were no differences among underweight and normal-weight patients regarding complication rates, operative time, or blood loss. The mean length of hospital stay was comparable among the different BMI groups. In the multivariate regression model, higher BMI was not associated with a higher risk of 30-day complications. Independent risk factors for 30-day complications were advanced age, prolonged operative time, and cardiovascular comorbidities.Conclusion. Although increased operative time, blood loss, and perioperative complications were seen in the morbidly obese patients, BMI alone was not an independent risk factor for a higher 30-day complication rate. Therefore, our data suggest clinicians should make elderly patients aware of increased 30-day complications before the procedure, particularly those with cardiovascular comorbidities. Withholding THA solely on the basis of BMI is not justified.
Term Delivery of a Complete Molar Pregnancy with a Coexistent Normal Pregnancy
Authors: Chhetry Manisha , Pokharel Aruna , Chaudhary Amar Nath
Published: October 2019

Twin pregnancy with a complete mole and a coexistent normal fetus reaching term is a rare occurrence. We report a case of a 21-yrs G2P1L0 un-booked patient at 39 weeks who was referred for the same condition diagnosed incidentally on ultrasound scan which showed a singleton pregnancy in breech presentation with a normal placenta and a heterogeneous cystic lesion seen anteriorly, suggesting a coexistent molar pregnancy. Cesarean section was done, and a healthy male baby was delivered with a grossly normal placenta and a second placenta with grape like vesicles. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of complete mole and normal placenta. Postoperative period was uneventful, and the patient was kept on beta hcg follow-up to monitor progression to gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, but it normalized by 12 weeks.
Metastatic Primary Gastric Squamous Cell Carcinoma: An Uncommon Presentation of a Rare Malignancy
Authors: Beattie Michael , Mansour Ramy , Thigpin Derek , Haus Carolyn
Published: October 2019

Primary gastric squamous cell carcinoma is a very rare disease. A 53-year-old male with history of hypertension, alcoholism, and nicotine abuse presented to the hospital after a syncopal episode. He complained of bloating abdominal pain, early satiety, and poor appetite. A CT of his abdomen and pelvis revealed a gastric mass with diffuse hepatic metastasis. A gastric mass was seen on upper endoscopy and biopsies revealed gastric squamous cell carcinoma. There was no involvement of the esophagus. This case should add to the limited literature and serve as a reminder that while this is a rare malignancy, it must be considered when evaluating a gastric mass.
Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis in an AIDS Patient with Kaposi Sarcoma: A Treatment Dilemma
Authors: Emiloju Oluwadunni E. , Gupta Sorab , Arguello-Guerra Vivian , Dourado Claudia
Published: October 2019

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a result of an abnormal activation of immune cells (T lymphocytes, natural killer cells, and macrophages) resulting in cytokine overproduction and immune destruction of cells, eventually resulting in multiorgan failure. Genetic causes are responsible for primary hemophagocytosis, but malignancies, infections, and autoimmunity underlie most of the secondary cases. We present an unusual case of a patient with AIDS and disseminated Kaposi sarcoma who was commenced on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) but developed HLH secondary to immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). We report this case to highlight the difficulty in managing this patient given the complex interplay of immunosuppression due to AIDS, immune reconstitution following initiation of HAART, and immune overdrive manifesting as HLH.
Epstein–Barr Virus Primary Infection Complicated by Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis and Plasmablastic Lymphoma in a HIV-Negative Patient
Authors: Chen Nan , Perez Mike , Mims Martha
Published: October 2019

EBV (Epstein–Barr virus) viremia causes immune dysregulation through various mechanisms, and we are understanding more that mutations in B, T, and NK (natural killer) cell signaling pathways allow EBV complications such as HLH (hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis) and lymphomas to arise. Here, we report a 20-year-old previously healthy, HIV- (human immunodeficiency virus-) negative male who presented with fevers, sore throat, and lymphadenopathy (LAD). He was found to have EBV viremia, pancytopenia, and elevated LFTs (liver function tests) suspicious for HLH. Bone marrow biopsy and elevated IL-2 (interleukin) receptor confirmed this diagnosis. Additionally, gastric biopsy confirmed diagnosis of plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL), a rare, aggressive HIV- and EBV-associated lymphoma. Both bone marrow and gastric biopsy showed evidence of EBV. Patients with EBV complications should have a rigorous workup to characterize the full extent of immune dysregulation including genetic testing at a high-volume center.
lncRNA Mirt2 Is Downregulated in Ulcerative Colitis and Regulates IL-22 Expression and Apoptosis in Colonic Epithelial Cells
Authors: Ding Guangrong , Ming Yuzheng , Zhang Yuling
Published: October 2019

lncRNA Mirt2 is a lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) inducible inflammation inhibitor. We found that Mirt2 was downregulated in plasma of ulcerative colitis (UC) patients and the downregulation of Mirt2 distinguished UC patients from healthy controls. IL-22 was also downregulated in UC patients and positively correlated with Mirt2. Mirt2 overexpression led to upregulated, while Mirt2 siRNA silencing led to inhibited secretion of IL-22 from colonic epithelial cells treated with LPS. In addition, under LPS treatment, Mirt2 overexpression led to decreased, while Mirt2 siRNA silencing led to increased apoptotic rate of colonic epithelial cells. Therefore, Mirt2 is downregulated in ulcerative colitis and regulates IL-22 expression in colonic epithelial cells.
Autoimmune Limbic Encephalitis in a Patient with Acute Encephalopathy and Hyponatremia
Authors: Agarwal K. A. , Albertolle M. , Tiru M.
Published: October 2019

Acute encephalopathy is a common clinical presentation for hospital admissions. Autoimmune encephalitis is a rare cause of encephalopathy which has increasingly been recognized over the last decade. The detection of various neuronal antibodies has helped diagnose these syndromes, but they have limited availability, mostly in the developed countries. We present a case of a middle-aged female presenting with memory impairment, gait disturbances, and hyponatremia. A clinical diagnosis of autoimmune limbic encephalitis was made based on faciobrachial dystonic seizures, SIADH, and MRI changes 10 days prior to autoantibody titer returned. Prompt treatment with steroids and intravenous immunoglobulin was started with improvement in her neurological symptoms. This case highlights the importance of considering autoimmune encephalitis syndromes in the differential diagnosis of patients with classical neurological presentations and prompt diagnosis and immunotherapy to improve neurological outcomes.
An Unusual Manifestation of Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm as a Testicular Tumor
Authors: Pak Daniel M. , Tretiakova Maria S.
Published: October 2019

Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is a clinically aggressive hematologic malignancy arising from precursors of plasmacytoid dendritic cells that represent less than 1% of hematological malignancies. BPDCN initially presents with cutaneous involvement and a characteristic immunophenotype of CD4, CD56, and CD123 co-expression. Upon disease progression, BPDCN shows a strong predilection for bone marrow, peripheral blood, and lymph nodes, whereas manifestations in visceral organs are rare. Significant heterogeneity in clinical presentation and immunophenotypic profile makes BPDCN challenging to diagnose without an integrated approach based on patient history, clinical features, tumor pathology, and comprehensive immunohistochemical studies. Herein we report the first case of relapsed BPDCN manifesting as a unilateral testicular tumor.
Gastrointestinal Tract Dysbiosis Enhances Distal Tumor Progression through Suppression of Leukocyte Trafficking
Authors: Jenkins Samir V. , Robeson Michael S. , Griffin Robert J. , Quick Charles M. , Siegel Eric R. , Cannon Martin J. , Vang Kieng B. , Dings Ruud P.M.
Published: October 2019

The overall use of antibiotics has increased significantly in recent years. Besides fighting infections, antibiotics also alter the gut microbiota. Commensal bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract are crucial to maintain immune homeostasis, and microbial imbalance or dysbiosis affects disease susceptibility and progression. We hypothesized that antibiotic-induced dysbiosis of the gut microbiota would suppress cytokine profiles in the host, thereby leading to changes in the tumor microenvironment. The induced dysbiosis was characterized by alterations in bacterial abundance, composition, and diversity in our animal models. On the host side, antibiotic-induced dysbiosis caused elongated small intestines and ceca, and B16-F10 melanoma and Lewis lung carcinoma progressed more quickly than in control mice. Mechanistic studies revealed that this progression was mediated by suppressed TNFα levels, both locally and systemically, resulting in reduced expression of tumor endothelial adhesion molecules, particularly intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and a subsequent decrease in the number of activated and effector CD8+ T cells in the tumor. However, suppression of ICAM-1 or its binding site, the alpha subunit of lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1, was not seen in the spleen or thymus during dysbiosis. TNFα supplementation in dysbiotic mice was able to increase ICAM-1 expression and leukocyte trafficking into the tumor. Overall, these results demonstrate the importance of commensal bacteria in supporting anticancer immune surveillance, define an important role of tumor endothelial cells within this process, and suggest adverse consequences of antibiotics on cancer control.

Significance:

Antibiotic-induced dysbiosis enhances distal tumor progression by altering host cytokine levels, resulting in suppression of tumor endothelial adhesion molecules and activated and effector CD8+ T cells in the tumor.
Ponatinib in the Treatment of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia and Philadelphia Chromosome-Positive Acute Leukemia: Recommendations of a German Expert Consensus Panel with Focus on Cardiovascular Management
Authors: Saussele Susanne , Haverkamp Wilhelm , Lang Fabian , Koschmieder Steffen , Kiani Alexander , Jentsch-Ullrich Kathleen , Stegelmann Frank , Pfeifer Heike , La Rosée Paul , Goekbuget Nicola , Rieger Christina , Waller Cornelius F. , Franke Georg-Nikolaus , le Coutre Philipp , Kirchmair Rudolf , Junghanss Christian
Published: October 2019

Treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute leukemia (Ph+ ALL) has been revolutionized with the advent of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Most patients with CML achieve long-term survival similar to individuals without CML due to treatment with TKIs not only in frontline but also in further lines of therapy. The third-generation TKI ponatinib has demonstrated efficacy in patients with refractory CML and Ph+ ALL. Ponatinib is currently the most potent TKI in this setting demonstrating activity against T315I mutant clones. However, ponatinib’s safety data revealed a dose-dependent, increased risk of serious cardiovascular (CV) events. Guidance is needed to evaluate the benefit–risk profile of TKIs, such as ponatinib, and safety measures to prevent treatment-associated CV events. An expert panel of German hematologists and cardiologists summarize current evidence regarding ponatinib’s efficacy and CV safety profile. We propose CV management strategies for patients who are candidates for ponatinib.
Nutritional Support of Cancer Patients without Oral Feeding: How to Select the Most Effective Technique?
Authors: Nunes Gonçalo , Fonseca Jorge , Barata Ana Teresa , Dinis-Ribeiro Mário , Pimentel-Nunes Pedro
Published: October 2019

Background: Digestive tumours are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. Many cancer patients cannot maintain oral feeding and develop malnutrition. The authors aim to: review the endoscopic, radiologic and surgical techniques for nutritional support in cancer patients; address the strategies for nutritional intervention according to the selected technique; and establish a decision-making algorithm to define the best approach in a specific tumour setting. Summary: This is a narrative non-systematic review based on an electronic search through the medical literature using PubMed and UpToDate. The impossibility of maintaining oral feeding is a major cause of malnutrition in head and neck (H&N) cancer, oesophageal tumours and malignant gastric outlet obstruction. Tube feeding, endoscopic stents and gastrojejunostomy are the three main nutritional options. Nasal tubes are indicated for short-term enteral feeding. Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is the gold standard when enteral nutrition is expected for more than 3–4 weeks, especially in H&N tumour and oesophageal cancer patients undergoing definite chemoradiotherapy. A gastropexy push system may be considered to avoid cancer seeding. Radiologic and surgical gastrostomy are alternatives when an endoscopic approach is not feasible. Postpyloric nutrition is indicated for patients intolerant to gastric feeding and may be achieved through nasoenteric tubes, PEG with jejunal extension, percutaneous endoscopic jejunostomy and surgical jejunostomy. Oesophageal and enteric stents are palliative techniques that allow oral feeding and improve quality of life. Surgical or EUS-guided gastrojejunostomy is recommended when enteric stents fail or prolonged survival is expected. Nutritional intervention is dependent on the technique chosen. Institutional protocols and decision algorithms should be developed on a multidisciplinary basis to optimize nutritional care. Conclusions: Gastroenterologists play a central role in the nutritional support of cancer patients performing endoscopic techniques that maintain oral or enteral feeding. The selection of the most effective technique must consider the cancer type, the oncologic therapeutic program, nutritional aims and expected patient survival.