bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Jacobi’s triple product, mock theta functions, unimodal sequences and the q-bracket
Authors: Schneider Robert
Published: March 2018

In Ramanujan’s final letter to Hardy, he listed examples of a strange new class of infinite series he called “mock theta functions”. It turns out all of these examples are essentially specializations of a so-called universal mock theta function [Formula: see text] of Gordon–McIntosh. Here we show that [Formula: see text] arises naturally from the reciprocal of the classical Jacobi triple product—and is intimately tied to rank generating functions for unimodal sequences, which are connected to mock modular and quantum modular forms—under the action of an operator related to statistical physics and partition theory, the [Formula: see text]-bracket of Bloch–Okounkov. Second, we find [Formula: see text] to extend in [Formula: see text] to the entire complex plane minus the unit circle, and give a finite formula for this universal mock theta function at roots of unity, that is simple by comparison to other such formulas in the literature; we also indicate similar formulas for other [Formula: see text]-hypergeometric series. Finally, we look at interesting “quantum” behaviors of mock theta functions inside, outside, and on the unit circle.
Identities for overpartitions with even smallest parts
Authors: Jang Min-Joo , Lovejoy Jeremy
Published: March 2018

We prove several combinatorial identities involving overpartitions whose smallest parts are even. These follow from an infinite product generating function for certain four-colored overpartitions.
A novel denoising framework for cerenkov luminescence imaging based on spatial information improved clustering and curvature-driven diffusion
Authors: Cao Xin , Sun Yi , Kang Fei , Wang Lin , Yi Huangjian , Zhao Fengjun , Su Linzhi , He Xiaowei
Published: March 2018

With widely availed clinically used radionuclides, Cerenkov luminescence imaging (CLI) has become a potential tool in the field of optical molecular imaging. However, the impulse noises introduced by high-energy gamma rays that are generated during the decay of radionuclide reduce the image quality significantly, which affects the accuracy of quantitative analysis, as well as the three-dimensional reconstruction. In this work, a novel denoising framework based on fuzzy clustering and curvature-driven diffusion (CDD) is proposed to remove this kind of impulse noises. To improve the accuracy, the Fuzzy Local Information C-Means algorithm, where spatial information is evolved, is used. We evaluate the performance of the proposed framework systematically with a series of experiments, and the corresponding results demonstrate a better denoising effect than those from the commonly used median filter method. We hope this work may provide a useful data pre-processing tool for CLI and its following studies.
South Korean Politics and Foreign Policy in 2017 and 2018
Authors: CHOO Jaewoo
Published: March 2018

The election of Moon Jae-in in South Korea signals a shift to a more conciliatory approach towards North Korea. Moon’s basic strategy towards the North contradicts that of the United States, emphasising a “dual-track” policy of seeking North Korea’s denuclearisation while calling for dialogue to facilitate inter-Korean summit and not North Korea’s denuclearisation. Moon’s acceptance of China’s “Three oppositions” to the deployment of Terminal High Altitude Area Defence is controversial as they are not within Korea’s jurisdiction.
Boron Doped Diamond: A Designer Electrode Material for the Twenty-First Century
Authors: Cobb Samuel J. , Ayres Zoe J. , Macpherson Julie V.
Published: March 2018

Boron doped diamond (BDD) is continuing to find numerous electrochemical applications across a diverse range of fields due to its unique properties, such as having a wide solvent window, low capacitance, and reduced resistance to fouling and mechanical robustness. In this review, we showcase the latest developments in the BDD electrochemical field. These are driven by a greater understanding of the relationship between material (surface) properties, required electrochemical performance, and improvements in synthetic growth/fabrication procedures, including material postprocessing. This has resulted in the production of BDD structures with the required function and geometry for the application of interest, making BDD a truly designer material. Current research areas range from in vivo bioelectrochemistry and neuronal/retinal stimulation to improved electroanalysis, advanced oxidation processes, supercapacitors, and the development of hybrid electrochemical-spectroscopic- and temperature-based technology aimed at enhancing electrochemical performance and understanding.
Analytical Chemistry in the Regulatory Science of Medical Devices
Authors: Wang Yi , Guan Allan , Wickramasekara Samanthi , Phillips K. Scott
Published: March 2018

In the United States, regulatory science is the science of developing new tools, standards, and approaches to assess the safety, efficacy, quality, and performance of all Food and Drug Administration–regulated products. Good regulatory science facilitates consumer access to innovative medical devices that are safe and effective throughout the Total Product Life Cycle (TPLC). Because the need to measure things is fundamental to the regulatory science of medical devices, analytical chemistry plays an important role, contributing to medical device technology in two ways: It can be an integral part of an innovative medical device (e.g., diagnostic devices), and it can be used to support medical device development throughout the TPLC. In this review, we focus on analytical chemistry as a tool for the regulatory science of medical devices. We highlight recent progress in companion diagnostics, medical devices on chips for preclinical testing, mass spectrometry for postmarket monitoring, and detection/characterization of bacterial biofilm to prevent infections.
Biodegradable Polymeric Nanoparticles for Therapeutic Cancer Treatments
Authors: Karlsson Johan , Vaughan Hannah J. , Green Jordan J.
Published: March 2018

Polymeric nanoparticles have tremendous potential to improve the efficacy of therapeutic cancer treatments by facilitating targeted delivery to a desired site. The physical and chemical properties of polymers can be tuned to accomplish delivery across the multiple biological barriers required to reach diverse subsets of cells. The use of biodegradable polymers as nanocarriers is especially attractive, as these materials can be designed to break down in physiological conditions and engineered to exhibit triggered functionality when at a particular location or activated by an external source. We present how biodegradable polymers can be engineered as drug delivery systems to target the tumor microenvironment in multiple ways. These nanomedicines can target cancer cells directly, the blood vessels that supply the nutrients and oxygen that support tumor growth, and immune cells to promote anticancer immunotherapy.
Towards Effective Network Intrusion Detection: A Hybrid Model Integrating Gini Index and GBDT with PSO
Authors: Li Longjie , Yu Yang , Bai Shenshen , Cheng Jianjun , Chen Xiaoyun
Published: March 2018

In order to protect computing systems from malicious attacks, network intrusion detection systems have become an important part in the security infrastructure. Recently, hybrid models that integrating several machine learning techniques have captured more attention of researchers. In this paper, a novel hybrid model was proposed with the purpose of detecting network intrusion effectively. In the proposed model, Gini index is used to select the optimal subset of features, the gradient boosted decision tree (GBDT) algorithm is adopted to detect network attacks, and the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is utilized to optimize the parameters of GBDT. The performance of the proposed model is experimentally evaluated in terms of accuracy, detection rate, precision, F1-score, and false alarm rate using the NSL-KDD dataset. Experimental results show that the proposed model is superior to the compared methods.
Red Blood Cell Distribution Width Is Associated with Carotid Atherosclerosis in People with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Nam J. S. , Ahn C. W. , Kang S. , Kim K. R. , Park J. S.
Published: March 2018

Aims. Red cell distribution width (RDW) has been shown to be associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The relationship between RDW and carotid intima-media thickness (C-IMT), a marker of subclinical atherosclerosis, has been inconsistent in subjects with cardiovascular risk factors. In this study, we investigated the relationship between RDW and carotid atherosclerosis in people with type 2 diabetes.Methods. Four hundred sixty-nine people with type 2 diabetes without history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular diseases were enrolled. Anthropometric measures and various biochemical parameters including RDW were assessed. Ultrasonographic measurement of carotid intima-media thickness was used to evaluate subclinical atherosclerosis.Results. The participants were stratified into 3 groups according to RDW. The C-IMT increased gradually according to RDW tertiles (lowest, second, highest RDW tertiles; 0.740 ± 0.120, 0.772 ± 0.138, and 0.795 ± 0.139, respectively;p<0.01). Multiple regression analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that RDW was associated with C-IMT in people with type 2 diabetes, and it remained significant after control for various cardiovascular risk factors including body mass index, blood pressure, insulin resistance, and smoking status in multivariate logistic regression analysis.Conclusion. RDW is associated with subclinical atherosclerosis assessed by carotid IMT after control of various covariates in people with type 2 diabetes without cardiovascular or cerebrovascular diseases.
MPTCP Tunnel: An Architecture for Aggregating Bandwidth of Heterogeneous Access Networks
Authors: Liu Xiaolan , Shan Danfeng , Shu Ran , Zhang Tong
Published: March 2018

Fixed and cellular networks are two typical access networks provided by operators. Fixed access network is widely employed; nevertheless, its bandwidth is sometimes not sufficient enough to meet user bandwidth requirements. Meanwhile, cellular access network owns unique advantages of wider coverage, faster increasing link speed, more flexible deployment, and so forth. Therefore, it is attractive for operators to mitigate the bandwidth shortage by bundling these two. Actually, there have been existing schemes proposed to aggregate the bandwidth of two access networks, whereas they all have their own problems, like packet reordering or extra latency overhead. To address this problem, we design new architecture, MPTCP Tunnel, to aggregate the bandwidth of multiple heterogeneous access networks from the perspective of operators. MPTCP Tunnel uses MPTCP, which solves the reordering problem essentially, to bundle multiple access networks. Besides, MPTCP Tunnel sets up only one MPTCP connection at play which adapts itself to multiple traffic types and TCP flows. Furthermore, MPTCP Tunnel forwards intact IP packets through access networks, maintaining the end‐to‐end TCP semantics. Experimental results manifest that MPTCP Tunnel can efficiently aggregate the bandwidth of multiple access networks and is more adaptable to the increasing heterogeneity of access networks than existing mechanisms.
Microstructure and Density of Sintered ZnO Ceramics Prepared by Magnetic Pulsed Compaction
Authors: Lee Ji-Woon , Jin Changhyun , Hong Soon-Jig , Hyun Soong-Keun
Published: March 2018

Three different sintered ZnO ceramics were prepared by magnetic pulsed compaction (MPC) and other conventional methods. The microstructures of the sintered ZnO ceramics prepared by MPC at sintering temperatures ranging from 900 to 1300°C showed a homogeneous grain growth compared to those of the samples prepared using other methods under the same sintering conditions. This implies that interpowders and/or intergrains can induce the minimization of wall friction effect because of the application of a high compaction pressure for a short process time in the MPC method. In addition, the microstructure of the sample obtained using the cold isostatic pressing method showed the presence of heterogeneous regions, indicating its low quality even though the densities of the three different samples were almost similar in the range of 97–99% at sintering temperatures of 900, 1100, and 1300°C. Therefore, different methods used for the compaction of ZnO ceramics may result in different microstructural and physical properties of the product.
Adaptive Digital Watermarking Scheme Based on Support Vector Machines and Optimized Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Zhou Xiaoyi , Cao Chunjie , Ma Jixin , Wang Longjuan
Published: March 2018

Digital watermarking is an effective solution to the problem of copyright protection, thus maintaining the security of digital products in the network. An improved scheme to increase the robustness of embedded information on the basis of discrete cosine transform (DCT) domain is proposed in this study. The embedding process consisted of two main procedures. Firstly, the embedding intensity with support vector machines (SVMs) was adaptively strengthened by training 1600 image blocks which are of different texture and luminance. Secondly, the embedding position with the optimized genetic algorithm (GA) was selected. To optimize GA, the best individual in the first place of each generation directly went into the next generation, and the best individual in the second position participated in the crossover and the mutation process. The transparency reaches 40.5 when GA’s generation number is 200. A case study was conducted on a 256 × 256 standard Lena image with the proposed method. After various attacks (such as cropping, JPEG compression, Gaussian low-pass filtering (3,0.5), histogram equalization, and contrast increasing (0.5,0.6)) on the watermarked image, the extracted watermark was compared with the original one. Results demonstrate that the watermark can be effectively recovered after these attacks. Even though the algorithm is weak against rotation attacks, it provides high quality in imperceptibility and robustness and hence it is a successful candidate for implementing novel image watermarking scheme meeting real timelines.
Mixed Far-Field and Near-Field Source Localization Algorithm via Sparse Subarrays
Authors: Song Jiaqi , Tao Haihong , Xie Jian , Sun Chenwei
Published: March 2018

Based on a dual-size shift invariance sparse linear array, this paper presents a novel algorithm for the localization of mixed far-field and near-field sources. First, by constructing a cumulant matrix with only direction-of-arrival (DOA) information, the proposed algorithm decouples the DOA estimation from the range estimation. The cumulant-domain quarter-wavelength invariance yields unambiguous estimates of DOAs, which are then used as coarse references to disambiguate the phase ambiguities in fine estimates induced from the larger spatial invariance. Then, based on the estimated DOAs, another cumulant matrix is derived and decoupled to generate unambiguous and cyclically ambiguous estimates of range parameter. According to the coarse range estimation, the types of sources can be identified and the unambiguous fine range estimates of NF sources are obtained after disambiguation. Compared with some existing algorithms, the proposed algorithm enjoys extended array aperture and higher estimation accuracy. Simulation results are given to validate the performance of the proposed algorithm.
Wear and Friction Evaluation of Different Tool Steels for Hot Stamping
Authors: Muro Maider , Artola Garikoitz , Gorriño Anton , Angulo Carlos
Published: March 2018

The aim of this work is to investigate the durability of tool steels for hot stamping by comparing the wear resistance of three hot work tool steels. Friction and wear behaviours of different tool steels sliding against a 22MnB5 uncoated steel at elevated temperatures were investigated using a high‐temperature version of the Optimol SRV reciprocating friction and wear tester at temperatures of 40 and 200°C. Our results show that friction decreased with increasing temperature, whereas wear of the tool steel increased with temperature for the second and the third tested tool steels. The slightly better wear behaviour of steel specimen 1 comes from the hardness of the carbides in the martensitic microstructure, which are rich in vanadium.
Beam-Doppler Unitary ESPRIT for Multitarget DOA Estimation
Authors: Wen Cai , Zhou Yan , Tao Mingliang , Wu Jianxin , Peng Jinye
Published: March 2018

High-resolution direction of arrival (DOA) estimation is a critical issue for mainbeam multitarget tracking in ground-based or airborne early warning radar system. A beam-Doppler unitary ESPRIT (BD-UESPRIT) algorithm is proposed to deal with this problem. Firstly, multiple snapshots without spatial aperture loss are obtained by using the technique of time-smoothing. Then the conjugate centrosymmetric discrete Fourier transform (DFT) matrix is used to transform the extracted data into beam-Doppler domain. Finally, the rotational invariance property of the space-time beam is exploited to estimate DOA of the target. The DOA estimation accuracy is improved greatly because the proposed algorithm takes full advantage of temporal information of the signal. Furthermore, the computational complexity of the presented algorithm is reduced dramatically, because the degree of freedom after beam transformation is very small and most of the operations are implemented in real-number domain. Numerical examples are given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Visualized Experimental Investigation on the Gas-Water Distribution Characteristics in Intersecting Fractures
Authors: Wang Chen , Jiang Yujing , Liu Richeng , Wang Changsheng
Published: March 2018

In coal-bed methane recovery, water is generally drained out along with gas. In order to address the influence of different gas-water ratios, fracture intersecting angles, and gas desorption positions on gas and water distributions along fractures and hence understand the two-phase flow behavior in fracture network, an experimental study was conducted on three artificial models with intersecting fractures. The results show that (1) with gas and water injected at different rates, the flow of water and gas is divided into three stages. In the first stage, gas flowed as small bubbles. The transport of gas was stable, which was similar to single-phase laminar flow. The difference in gas injection positions led to totally contrary flow results of water and gas. (2) In the second stage, larger gas bubbles were formed and the interactions between water and gas became serious. The gas-water distribution was dominated by different inertias between water and gas. The difference in gas injection positions did not take much effect on the gas-water distribution. (3) In the third stage, the influence of the inertia difference was still important, but some other factors also influenced the gas-water distribution. The difference in gas injection positions led to different distribution results. (4) The water injection rate has impact on the distribution of the water flow rate in each outlet. In the second stage, when water was injected at small rates, the difference between the cases in which gas was injected from different positions can be neglected. When water injection rates became larger, this difference became obvious. (5) The intersecting angle of the fractures influences the distribution of water and gas. The larger the intersecting angle is, the larger the inertial effect will be. Consequently, the intersecting angle influences the length of the second stage, which is dominated by the inertial effect.
Osteoporosis Is Associated with Deteriorating Clinical Status in Adults with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Mathiesen Inger Hee , Pressler Tacjana , Oturai Peter , Katzenstein Terese Lea , Skov Marianne , Frikke-Schmidt Ruth , Hitz Mette Friberg
Published: March 2018

Background. Cystic fibrosis (CF) patients are in increased risk of osteoporosis. We aimed to determine the osteoporosis prevalence in an adult CF cohort and investigate calcium metabolic parameters and clinical status’ association with bone mineral density evaluated by dual X-ray absorptiometry scan. Methods. We performed a cross section database study of adults at a tertiary CF Center. Z scores were applied for patients < 50 years of age and T scores for patients > 50 years of age. Results. One hundred twenty-five patients were included. Compared to nonosteoporotic patients, osteoporotic patients (15%) had significantly lower percent predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 second (ppFEV1), lower body mass index, higher frequency of CF-related diabetes and chronic lung infection, and higher high-sensitive C-reactive protein and glycated hemoglobin levels. Vitamin D was not associated with any outcome. In multivariate analyses, only ppFEV1 and female gender were independently associated with Z scores. Conclusions. Osteoporosis in CF occurs with deteriorating clinical status while the role of calcium metabolism seems minor. Gender specific and dysglycemic impact on bone status should be investigated further.
A Case of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma Mimicking a Bartholin Cyst and Literature Review
Authors: Goh Siew Pei , McCully Brian , Wagner Matthew Kyle
Published: March 2018

Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the Bartholin Gland (BG-ACC) is a rare form of vulval cancer with only approximately 350 reported cases since 1864. A review of available literature and case reports suggests an aggressive nature with protracted clinical symptoms and a tendency for local recurrence despite adequate surgical excision with or without adjuvant radiotherapy. Survival rates of 71% and 59% are reported at five and ten years. This case report endeavours to add to our body of knowledge regarding this rare disease and thus help broaden and improve our understanding of management and treatment success.
A Very Rare Case of Hypereosinophilic Syndrome Secondary to Natural Killer/T-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Yamamoto Takanori , Kamijo Atsushi , Nakazawa Tadao , Nakajima Kei , Kirito Keita , Komatsu Norio , Masuyama Keisuke
Published: March 2018

Hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) is a systemic disease characterized by an increased peripheral blood eosinophil count accompanied by systemic organ dysfunction. HES is classified into idiopathic HES, primary (neoplastic) HES (HESN), and secondary (reactive) HES (HESR). In this case report, a patient who developed peripheral blood eosinophilia and granulation tissue in the pharynx and paranasal sinus, which was initially diagnosed as chronic eosinophilic leukemia (CEL), categorized as HESN, but was eventually identified after the patient had died as natural killer/T-cell (NK/T) lymphoma, nasal type (ENKL), categorized as HESR, is presented. ENKL-induced HES is very rare but must be considered.
Blood and Tissue Enzymatic Activities of GDH and LDH, Index of Glutathione, and Oxidative Stress among Breast Cancer Patients Attending Referral Hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: Hospital‐Based Comparative Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Mehdi Mohammed , Menon M. K. C. , Seyoum Nebiyou , Bekele Mahteme , Tigeneh Wondimagegn , Seifu Daniel
Published: March 2018

The exact cause of breast cancer is unknown; it is a multifactorial disease. It is the most diagnosed and the second killer cancer among women. Breast cancer can be originated from tissues of breast or secondary from other organs via metastasis. Generally, cancer cells show aberrant metabolism and oxidative stress when compared to noncancerous tissues of breast cancer patients. The current study aims at evaluating glutamate and glucose metabolism through GDH and LDH enzyme activities, oxidant, and antioxidative status among breast cancer patients attending referral hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Result. Catalytic activities of glutamate dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase, and oxidative stress index were significantly increased in both serum (4.2 mU/ml, 78.6 mU/ml, and 3.3 : 1, resp.) and cancerous tissues (1.4 mU/ml, 111.7 mU/ml, and 2.15 : 1, resp.) of breast cancer patients as compared to those in serum of control group (3.15 mU/ml, 30.4 mU/ml, and 2.05 : 1, resp.) and noncancerous tissues of breast cancer patients (0.92 mU/ml, 70.5 mU/ml, and 1.1 : 1, resp.) (P ≤ 0.05). Correspondingly, ratios of reduced to oxidized glutathione were significantly decreased in both serum (20 : 1) and cancerous tissues (23.5 : 1) of breast cancer patients when compared to those in serum of control group (104.5 : 1) and noncancerous tissues of breast cancer patients (70.9 : 1) (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusion. Catalytic activities of GDH and LDH, ratios of GSH to GSSG, and concentration of TOS among breast cancer patients were significantly higher than were those among control group and noncancerous tissues of breast cancer patients, while TAC of breast cancer patients is significantly lower than that of control group and normal tissues of breast cancer patients.
Reactive Oxygen Species Generation in Human Cells by a Novel Magnetic Resonance Imaging Contrast Agent
Authors: Wang Li , Lin Eric , Johansen Mary J. , Madden Timothy , Felix Edward , Martirosyan Karen S. , Frank Steven J.
Published: March 2018

The novel positive-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) marker C4 consists of an aqueous solution of cobalt chloride (CoCl2) complexed with the chelator N-acetylcysteine (NAC). We evaluated whether the presence of C4 or its components would produce reactive oxygen species (ROS, including hydroxyl, peroxyl, or other reactive oxygen species) in cultured cells. Human cancer or normal cells were incubated with 1% (w/v) CoCl2·6H2O or 2% NAC or a combination of both (1% CoCl2·6H2O : 2% NAC in an aqueous solution, abbreviated as Co : NAC) in the presence or absence of H2O2. Intracellular ROS levels were measured and quantified by change in relative fluorescence units. Student’st-tests were used. In all cell lines exposed to 1000 μM H2O2, the Co : NAC led to ≥94.7% suppression of ROS at 5 minutes and completely suppressed ROS at 60 and 90 minutes; NAC suppressed ROS by ≥76.6% at 5 minutes and by ≥94.5% at 90 minutes; and CoCl2·6H2O suppressed ROS by ≥37.2% at 30 minutes and by ≥48.6% at 90 minutes. These results demonstrate that neither Co : NAC nor its components generated ROS; rather, they suppressed ROS production in cultured cells, suggesting that C4 would not enhance ROS production in clinical use.
An Agent-Based Model for Dispatching Real-Time Demand-Responsive Feeder Bus
Authors: Li Xin , Wei Ming , Hu Jia , Yuan Yun , Jiang Huifu
Published: March 2018

This research proposed a feeder bus dispatching tool that reduces rides’ effort to reach a feeder bus. The dispatching tool takes in real-time user specific request information and optimizes total cost accordingly (passenger access time cost and transit operation cost) by choosing the best pick-up locations and feeder buses’ routes. The pick-up locations are then transmitted back to passengers along with GPS guidance. The tool fits well with the Advanced Traveler Information Services (ATIS) which is one of the six high-priority dynamic mobility application bundles currently being promoted by the United State Department of Transportation. The problem is formulated into a Mixed Integer Programming (MIP) model. For small networks, out-of-the-shelf commercial solvers could be used for finding the optimal solution. For large networks, this research developed a GA-based metaheuristic solver which generates reasonably good solutions in a much shorter time. The proposed tool is evaluated on a real-world network in the vicinity of Jiandingpo metro station in Chongqing, China. The results demonstrated that the proposed ATIS tool reduces both buses operation cost and passenger walking distance. It is also able to significantly bring down computation time from more than 1 hour to about 1 min without sacrificing too much on solution optimality.
A Pediatric Case of Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis Onset following Varicella Zoster Ophthalmicus with Optic Neuritis
Authors: Shiba Naoko , Inaba Yuji , Motobayashi Mitsuo , Nishioka Makoto , Kawasaki Yoichiro , Noda Shunsuke , Matsuura Hiroki , Kobayashi Norimoto , Matsuoka Takafumi , Nakamura Akinori , Nakazawa Yozo
Published: March 2018

Some epidemiological studies have implied a pathogenetic association between varicella zoster virus (VZV) and multiple sclerosis (MS); this, however, remains controversial. The present report describes a case involving an immunocompetent 10-year-old girl who developed relapsing-remitting MS following the prolonged reactivation of VZV inside the first branch of the trigeminal nerve, exhibiting herpes zoster ophthalmicus with severe optic neuritis. Symptoms related to herpes zoster ophthalmicus and MS appeared consecutively in the 10-week period after the appearance of vesicles. This suggests that the onset of MS was triggered by some mechanism involving VZV reactivation in the first branch of the trigeminal nerve. To the best of our knowledge, this report is the first to describe a relationship between the onset of MS and herpes zoster ophthalmicus. Early diagnosis and aggressive antiviral therapy are important in cases of herpes zoster ophthalmicus to prevent the possible development of MS as well as visual impairment as sequela.
A Prediction Model for Recognizing Strangulated Small Bowel Obstruction
Authors: Huang Xiaming , Fang Guan , Lin Jie , Xu Keyu , Shi Hongqi , Zhuang Lei
Published: March 2018

Introduction. Early and accurate diagnosis of strangulated small bowel obstruction (SSBO) is difficult. This study aimed to devise a prediction model for predicting the risk of SSBO.Materials and Methods.A database of 417 patients who had clinical symptoms of intestinal obstruction confirmed by computed tomography (CT) were evaluated for inclusion in this study. Symptoms and laboratory and radiologic findings of these patients were collected after admission. These clinical factors were analyzed using logistic regression. A logistic regression model was applied to identify determinant variables and construct a clinical score that would predict SSBO.Results. Seventy-six patients were confirmed to have SSBO, 169 patients required surgery but had no evidence of intestinal ischemia, and 172 patients were successfully managed conservatively. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, body temperature ≥ 38.0°C, positive peritoneal irritation sign, white blood cell (WBC) count > 10.0 × 10^9/L, thick-walled small bowel ≥3 mm, and ascites were significantly associated with SSBO. A new prediction model with total scores ranging from 0 to 481 was developed with these five variables. The area under the curve (AUC) of the new prediction model was 0.935.Conclusions. Our prediction model is a good predictive model to evaluate the severity of SBO.
Incorporating Cystatin C to Predict Methotrexate Elimination in Patients with CNS Lymphoma and Suspicious Renal Function
Authors: Barreto Jason N. , McClanahan Allison L. , Rule Andrew D. , Thompson Carrie A. , Frazee Erin
Published: March 2018

High-dose methotrexate (MTX; ≥1 g/m2) is a renally eliminated and nephrotoxic first-line therapy for central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma. Creatinine-based estimation of renal function is the recommended approach to dosing MTX in these cases, but nonrenal determinants of creatinine production and elimination in cancer patients such as malnutrition and cachexia lead to overestimation of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) by this method and a heightened risk for drug toxicity. Serum cystatin C is one of the first readily available, relatively inexpensive, endogenous biomarkers to emerge as a practical adjunct to creatinine for estimation of renal function for drug dosing. In this report, we describe two cases where cystatin C was used in conjunction with creatinine to inform MTX dosing for CNS lymphoma. In both cases, the estimated GFR was nearly 40% lower with the combination of the two biomarkers compared to creatinine-only estimates. Empiric MTX dose reductions as a product of these results likely spared the patients sustained exposure to toxic drug concentrations and facilitated earlier administration of supportive care interventions. Further prospective investigations with validated dosing regimens including cystatin C are warranted for high-dose MTX.
Fast Estimation Method of Space-Time Two-Dimensional Positioning Parameters Based on Hadamard Product
Authors: Li Haiwen , Zheng Nae , Song Xiyu , Tian Yinghua
Published: March 2018

The estimation speed of positioning parameters determines the effectiveness of the positioning system. The time of arrival (TOA) and direction of arrival (DOA) parameters can be estimated by the space-time two-dimensional multiple signal classification (2D-MUSIC) algorithm for array antenna. However, this algorithm needs much time to complete the two-dimensional pseudo spectral peak search, which makes it difficult to apply in practice. Aiming at solving this problem, a fast estimation method of space-time two-dimensional positioning parameters based on Hadamard product is proposed in orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) system, and the Cramer-Rao bound (CRB) is also presented. Firstly, according to the channel frequency domain response vector of each array, the channel frequency domain estimation vector is constructed using the Hadamard product form containing location information. Then, the autocorrelation matrix of the channel response vector for the extended array element in frequency domain and the noise subspace are calculated successively. Finally, by combining the closed-form solution and parameter pairing, the fast joint estimation for time delay and arrival direction is accomplished. The theoretical analysis and simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can significantly reduce the computational complexity and guarantee that the estimation accuracy is not only better than estimating signal parameters via rotational invariance techniques (ESPRIT) algorithm and 2D matrix pencil (MP) algorithm but also close to 2D-MUSIC algorithm. Moreover, the proposed algorithm also has certain adaptability to multipath environment and effectively improves the ability of fast acquisition of location parameters.
Evaluation of Reirradiation in Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancers: Toxicity and Early Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Bahl Amit , Oinam Arun Singh , Elangovan Arun , Kaur Satinder , Trivedi Gaurav , Verma Roshan , Bhandari Sudhir , Ghoshal Sushmita , Panda Naresh Kumar
Published: March 2018

Objectives. Locoregional recurrence is the predominant pattern of treatment failure in advanced head and neck cancers. Reirradiation is a useful modality to treat inoperable head and neck cancer patients with recurrent disease. The aim of the present study was to analyze the treatment toxicity and early clinical outcomes in patients undergoing reirradiation. Methods. Twenty patients of head and neck cancers with recurrences or second cancers were evaluated. Reirradiation was done using simultaneous integrated boost volumetric modulated arc therapy (SIB VMAT), intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), or conventional radiotherapy using 6MV photons. Dose prescription ranged from 30 to 60 Gy in conventional fractionation. Results. Seventeen males and three females were evaluated in this analysis. The median age of patients under study was 56.5 years. At time of analysis 8 patients (40%) had a complete response, 7 patients (35%) had progressive disease, and 25% had partial response or stable disease. Grade III-IV mucositis, dermatitis, xerostomia, dysphagia, and trismus were seen in 20%, 20%, 50%, 35%, and 45% patients, respectively, during retreatment. Patients receiving a radiotherapy dose less than 45 Gy showed a higher incidence of progressive disease (p=0.01). The median disease-free survival for patients receiving reirradiation dose of ≥46 Gy was 19±3.3 months (median ± S Error) compared to 8±2.61 months for those with a dose prescription less than 45 Gy (p=0.03). At 18-month follow-up 26% of patients undergoing reirradiation were disease-free. Conclusions. Our results show improved tumor control using a prescription of doses ≥46 Gy in retreatment setting.
Does Uterine Fibroid Adversely Affect Obstetric Outcome of Pregnancy?
Authors: Saleh Hend S. , Mowafy Hala E. , Hameid Azza A. Abd El , Sherif Hala E. , Mahfouz Eman M.
Published: March 2018

Background. Fibroid is the most common benign tumor of the uterus and if associated with pregnancy may adversely affect the outcome of pregnancy. Objective of the present study was to assess the obstetric outcome (maternal and fetal) in pregnancy with fibroid. Methods. A prospective observational study was performed over a period from May 2015 to August 2017 at Obstetrics and Gynecology Department in Zagazig University Hospitals, Egypt. 64 pregnant patients with >2 cm fibroid were taken in the study. Routine fundamental investigations were done for all. They were followed during antenatal period clinically and scanned by ultrasonogram which was done at booking visit and during subsequent visits to assess the change in the size of the fibroid and other obstetric complications. Maternal age, parity, size of fibroid, complications during pregnancy, and mode of delivery were noted. Results. 64 pregnant patients with uterine fibroids were recruited; 47 of them completed the study to the end. The average age was 31.80±3.27 years, body mass index (BMI) [calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters] was 24.67±2.46, primigravida was 23.4%, multigravida was 76.6%, duration of menstrual cycle/day was 29.68±3.10, and duration of menstrual period/day was 6.46±1.12. The percentage of spontaneous conception was 59.57% and 40.43% for using assisted reproductive technology. The results of obstetric outcome were spontaneous abortion in 2%, premature delivery in 27.7%, and delivery at 37–41 weeks of pregnancy in 70.2%. The mode of delivery was vaginal delivery in 15% and cesarean sections in 85%. Also, 34% had threatened miscarriage, 21% had preterm labor, 2% had antepartum bleeding in the form of placenta previa, 4% had abdominal pain needing admission, one of them underwent laparotomy and was diagnosed as red degeneration, 2 (4%) had postpartum hemorrhage, and only one needed blood transfusion. Cesarean sections were done in 85%. Neonatal outcome was acceptable with no perinatal mortality. There were no significant differences between patients with single or multiple fibroids as regards the obstetric outcome or type of fibroid either intramural or subserosal. The obstetric outcomes were not significantly affected by the number, size, or type of fibroids. Conclusions. Even most of fibroids in pregnancy are asymptomatic but may be associated with some complications affecting the course of pregnancy and labor. So, pregnancy has to be cautiously screened in the antenatal period, through regular follow-up, to detect any adverse obstetric complications and so improve the outcome.
Sonographic Demonstration of Intracranial Hemorrhage in a Fetus with Hydrops Fetalis due to Rh Alloimmunization after Intrauterine Intravascular Transfusion: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Melekoglu Rauf , Celik Ebru , Kural Hasim
Published: March 2018

Intrauterine transfusion is the most common and successful intrauterine procedure for the treatment of fetal anemia due to red cell alloimmunization. Fetal intracranial hemorrhage is a very rare complication of intrauterine transfusion in patients with Rh(D) alloimmunization and it has been demonstrated only in a few case reports in the literature. Herein, we described a case of grade IV intraventricular hemorrhage that was diagnosed following the first intrauterine transfusion and reviewed the literature about the fetal intracranial hemorrhage that occurred after intrauterine intravascular transfusion procedure.
Stability Analysis of Stochastic Generalized Equation via Brouwer’s Fixed Point Theorem
Authors: Liu Qiang , Zhang Jie , Lin Shuang , Zhang Li-wei
Published: March 2018

The stochastic generalized equation provides a unifying methodology to study several important stochastic programming problems in engineering and economics. Under some metric regularity conditions, the quantitative stability analysis of solutions of a stochastic generalized equation with the variation of the probability measure is investigated via Brouwer’s fixed point theorem. In particular, the error bounds described by Hausdorff distance between the solution sets are established against the variation of the probability measure. The stability results obtained are finally applied to a stochastic conic programming.
The Impact of Multifaceted Osteoporosis Group Education on Patients’ Decision-Making regarding Treatment Options and Lifestyle Changes
Authors: Jensen Annesofie L. , Wind Gitte , Langdahl Bente Lomholt , Lomborg Kirsten
Published: March 2018

Introduction. Patients with chronic diseases like osteoporosis constantly have to make decisions related to their disease. Multifaceted osteoporosis group education (GE) may support patients’ decision-making. This study investigated multifaceted osteoporosis GE focusing on the impact of GE on patients’ decision-making related to treatment options and lifestyle. Material and Methods. An interpretive description design using ethnographic methods was utilized with 14 women and three men diagnosed with osteoporosis who attended multifaceted GE. Data consisted of participant observation during GE and individual interviews. Results. Attending GE had an impact on the patients’ decision-making in all educational themes. Patients decided on new ways to manage osteoporosis and made decisions regarding bone health and how to implement a lifestyle ensuring bone health. During GE, teachers and patients shared evidence-based knowledge and personal experiences and preferences, respectively, leading to a two-way exchange of information and deliberation about recommendations. Though teachers and patients explored the implications of the decisions and shared their preferences, teachers stressed that the patients ultimately had to make the decision. Teachers therefore refrained from participating in the final step of the decision-making process. Conclusion. Attending GE has an impact on the patients’ decision-making as it can initiate patient reflection and support decision-making.
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Incidentalomas: A Multimodality Imaging Case of Giant Right Coronary Aneurysm
Authors: Janjua Jamal , Odigie-Okon Esosa G. , Rabindranauth Premnauth , Wittchow Richard J. , Riaz Aiman
Published: March 2018

Giant coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs) are defined as having a diameter of greater than 2 cm. We report a case of an 82-year-old male with severe aortic stenosis incidentally diagnosed with giant right coronary artery aneurysm (gRCAA) while undergoing evaluation for transcather aortic valve replacement (TAVR). It was causing a mass effect on the right cardiac chambers but was otherwise asymptomatic. Our patient was successfully treated with surgical excision of aneurysm with concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). The patient remained stable at discharge and on serial follow-ups for two years. In conclusion, due to the associated complication and increased risk of mortality with giant coronary aneurysms, we recommend surgical approach instead of medical management alone. We also call for evidence-based recommendations and guidelines for management of TAVR incidentalomas.
The Long Neglected Player: Modeling Tumor Uptake to Guide Optimal Dosing
Authors: Ruiz-Cerdá Leire , Asín-Prieto Eduardo , Parra-Guillen Zinnia P. , Trocóniz Iñaki F.
Published: March 2018

Pharmacokinetic modeling, traditionally using drug exposure, is widely used to support decision-making in translational medicine and patient care. The development of mechanistic computational models that integrate drug concentrations at the site of action making use of existing knowledge opens a new paradigm in optimal dosing. Clin Cancer Res; 24(14); 3236–8. ©2018 AACR.

See related article by Ribba et al., p. 3325
Água e saúde: fluoretação e revogação da Lei Federal n. 6.050/1974
Authors: Zilbovicius Celso , Ferreira Regina Glaucia Lucena Aguiar , Narvai Paulo Capel
Published: March 2018

Ao contrário de muitos países, o Brasil dispõe de um instrumento legal que ampara a fluoretação da água (uma tecnologia de saúde pública eficaz para prevenir a cárie dentária em nível populacional): a Lei Federal n. 6.050/1974. Como não há objeções científicas à medida, o país deveria proteger esse instrumento. Contudo, a Câmara dos Deputados tem acolhido iniciativas parlamentares que pedem a revogação da lei brasileira que torna a medida obrigatória onde haja estação de tratamento de água. Tal é o caso dos projetos de lei n. 510/2003 e n. 6.359/2013. Neste artigo, são analisados os argumentos que justificam esses projetos de leis, à luz de evidências científicas. Constatou-se estreita semelhança entre os conteúdos dos dois projetos: os argumentos utilizados para justificar a revogação da lei não têm embasamento científico e se apoiam apenas em crendices e no senso comum. A fluoretação de águas de abastecimento tornou-se, ao longo do século XX, a ação de maior impacto na prevenção da cárie. No Brasil, a referida lei tornou-se um referencial jurídico importante para a implantação da fluoretação em boa parte do território nacional, beneficiando milhões de pessoas de todas as idades e contribuindo para atenuar as limitações de acesso às ações de prevenção individuais e à assistência odontológica. Conclui-se que a revogação da lei implicaria, em muitos casos, a suspensão dessa importante medida sanitária, configurando-se um ato de injustiça, com o aprofundamento de desigualdades decorrente da previsível piora do quadro epidemiológico bucal.
Geologia, mineralogia, inclusões fluidas e gênese dos depósitos de titanita-epidoto de Capelinha, Minas Gerais
Authors: Chaves Mario Luiz de Sá Carneiro , Tolentino Junior Eder Luiz , Dias Coralie Heinis , Romano Antônio Wilson
Published: March 2018

Nas proximidades da cidade de Capelinha, Minas Gerais, ocorrem depósitos de titanita-epidoto associados a veios pegmatoides ricos em albita e/ou adulária, nos arredores de duas localidades principais conhecidas como Campo do Boa e Fanadinho. Tais depósitos estão hospedados em um xisto metavulcânico básico, rico em titânio, composto principalmente por albita, epidoto, actinolita, titanita e quartzo, relacionado à Formação Capelinha (Grupo Macaúbas), de idade toniana; o protólito dessa rocha foi determinado como um álcali-basalto, que foi metamorfisado em fácies anfibolito. Os veios apresentam espessura que varia entre alguns decímetros até cerca de 4 m, e são constituídos principalmente por albita, parcial a inteiramente caulinizada na área do Fanadinho, onde também são mais ricos em epidoto. Quartzo é raro, enquanto as micas são ausentes. Análises por difração de raios X, fluorescência de raios X e microssonda eletrônica, além de estudos de inclusões fluidas, permitiram caracterizar a titanita e minerais associados nesses depósitos. A titanita e, mais raramente, o epidoto podem formar drusas excepcionais, muito apreciadas por colecionadores de minerais, cujos monocristais em geral maclados podem alcançar alguns centímetros ao longo do eixo “c”. Outros minerais importantes nesses veios, embora incomuns, são apatita, ilmenita e actinolita. Estudos de inclusões fluidas indicaram uma temperatura mínima de cristalização na faixa de 300 a 450ºC. Em termos genéticos, tal mineralização relacionase, primeiramente, à extrusão dos basaltos ricos em titânio, os quais foram metamorfisados no Ciclo Brasiliano (± 570 Ma), com provável formação e enriquecimento de titanita. As temperaturas mínimas de aprisionamento das inclusões fluidas encontradas são plenamente compatíveis com as condições de fácies anfibolito. Esses dados indicam que os fluidos hidrotermais percolaram as rochas encaixantes ainda no processo de metamorfismo, provavelmente ao final desse processo.