bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accidental hydroxychloroquine overdose resulting in neurotoxic vestibulopathy
Authors: Chansky Peter B , Werth Victoria P
Published: April 2017

Hydroxychloroquine is an oral antimalarial medication commonly used off-label for a variety of rheumatological conditions, including systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome and dermatomyositis. We present a case of a 64-year-old woman who presented with acute onset headache, bilateral tinnitus, and left-sided facial numbness and tingling in the setting of accidentally overdosing on hydroxychloroquine. By the next morning, the patient began to experience worsening in the tingling sensation and it eventually spread to her left arm, thigh and distal extremities. The patient also complained of new onset blurring of her peripheral vision and feeling ‘off balance.’ Despite a complete neurological and ophthalmological work-up with unremarkable imaging and blood work, the patient has had no improvement in her tinnitus, left-sided paresthesias, visual disturbance or ataxia. This is a unique case of hydroxychloroquine overdose resulting in permanent neurotoxic vestibulopathy.
Surface EEG-Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) Closed-Loop System
Authors: Leite Jorge , Morales-Quezada Leon , Carvalho Sandra , Thibaut Aurore , Doruk Deniz , Chen Chiun-Fan , Schachter Steven C. , Rotenberg Alexander , Fregni Felipe
Published: April 2017

Conventional transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) protocols rely on applying electrical current at a fixed intensity and duration without using surrogate markers to direct the interventions. This has led to some mixed results; especially because tDCS induced effects may vary depending on the ongoing level of brain activity. Therefore, the objective of this preliminary study was to assess the feasibility of an EEG-triggered tDCS system based on EEG online analysis of its frequency bands. Six healthy volunteers were randomized to participate in a double-blind sham-controlled crossover design to receive a single session of 10[Formula: see text]min 2[Formula: see text]mA cathodal and sham tDCS. tDCS trigger controller was based upon an algorithm designed to detect an increase in the relative beta power of more than 200%, accompanied by a decrease of 50% or more in the relative alpha power, based on baseline EEG recordings. EEG-tDCS closed-loop-system was able to detect the predefined EEG magnitude deviation and successfully triggered the stimulation in all participants. This preliminary study represents a proof-of-concept for the development of an EEG-tDCS closed-loop system in humans. We discuss and review here different methods of closed loop system that can be considered and potential clinical applications of such system.
Neurophysiological Analysis of the Genesis Mechanism of EEG During the Interictal and Ictal Periods Using a Multiple Neural Masses Model
Authors: Ma Zhen
Published: April 2017

Electroencephalography (EEG) is an important method to investigate the neurophysiological mechanism underlying epileptogenesis to identify new therapies for the treatment of epilepsy. The neurophysiologically based neural mass model (NMM) can build a bridge between signal processing and neurophysiology, which can be used as a platform to explore the neurophysiological mechanism of epileptogenesis. Most EEG signals cannot be regarded as the outputs of a single NMM with identical model parameters. The outputs of NMM are simple because the diversity of neural signals in the same NMM is ignored. To improve the simulation of EEG signals, a multiple NMM is proposed, the output of which is the linear combination of the outputs of all NMMs. The NMM number is not fixed and is minimized under the premise of guaranteeing the fitting effect. Orthogonal matching pursuit is used to solve a constrained [Formula: see text] norm minimization problem for NMM number and the strength of every NMM. The results showed that the NMM number was significantly lower during the ictal period than during the interictal period, and the strength of major NMMs increased. This indicates that neural masses fuse into fewer larger neural masses with greater strength. The distribution of excitatory and inhibitory strength during the ictal and interictal periods was similar, whereas the excitation/inhibition ratio was higher during the ictal period than during the interictal period.
On the Iwasawa invariants for links and Kida’s formula
Authors: Ueki Jun
Published: April 2017

Analogues of Iwasawa invariants in the context of 3-dimensional topology have been studied by M. Morishita and others. In this paper, following the dictionary of arithmetic topology, we formulate an analogue of Kida’s formula on [Formula: see text]-invariants in a [Formula: see text]-extension of [Formula: see text]-fields for 3-manifolds. The proof is given in a parallel manner to Iwasawa’s second proof, with use of [Formula: see text]-adic representations of a finite group. In the course of our arguments, we introduce the notion of a branched [Formula: see text]-cover as an inverse system of cyclic branched [Formula: see text]-covers of 3-manifolds, generalize the Iwasawa type formula, and compute the Tate cohomology of 2-cycles explicitly.
Allee dynamics: Growth, extinction and range expansion
Authors: Bose Indrani , Pal Mainak , Karmakar Chiranjit
Published: April 2017

In population biology, the Allee dynamics refer to negative growth rates below a critical population density. In this paper, we study a reaction-diffusion (RD) model of popoulation growth and dispersion in one dimension, which incorporates the Allee effect in both the growth and mortatility rates. In the absence of diffusion, the bifurcation diagram displays regions of both finite population density and zero population density, i.e. extinction. The early signatures of the transition to extinction at the bifurcation point are computed in the presence of additive noise. For the full RD model, the existence of traveling wave solutions of the population density is demonstrated. The parameter regimes in which the traveling wave advances (range expansion) and retreats are identified. In the weak Allee regime, the transition from the pushed to the pulled wave is shown as a function of the mortality rate constant. The results obtained are in agreement with the recent experimental observations on budding yeast populations.
Studies of vehicle overtaking dynamics and its influence on traffic flow at a bidirectional road
Authors: Echab H. , Marzoug R. , Lakouari N. , Ez-Zahraouy H.
Published: April 2017

For the purposes of optimizing traffic flow composed of different types of vehicles, it is important to understand the interactions between them. This paper proposes a cellular automata model to investigate a bidirectional two-lane traffic flow under the periodic boundary condition. The vehicle flux and the phase diagrams of the system in the ([Formula: see text]) space are constructed by applying two different overtaking models (symmetric, asymmetric). The inter-lane correlation and the overtaking frequency are also studied. The simulation results show that the variation of the density of one lane has an apparent influence on the traffic of the adjacent lane. Furthermore, it is found that the phase diagram on both models is classified into several regions. Thus, for the symmetric model, as the overtaking probability increases, the traffic on the system becomes better. Likewise, the results also indicate that the asymmetric model can effectively enhance the traffic capacity and alleviate the congested state.
Impacts of road conditions on the energy consumption of electric vehicular flow
Authors: Xiao Hong , Huang Hai-Jun , Tang Tie-Qiao
Published: April 2017

In this paper, we use the electricity consumption model for electric vehicular flow [H. Xiao, H. J. Huang and T. Q. Tang, Mod. Phys. Lett. B 30 (2016) 1650325] to study the effects of road conditions on the electricity consumption of electric vehicular flow during the evolutions of shock, rarefaction wave and small perturbation. The numerical results indicate that road conditions have negative influences on the electricity consumption during the evolutions of shock and rarefaction wave (i.e. the electricity consumption increases when road conditions become better) and positive impacts on the electricity consumption during the evolution of small perturbation when the traffic flow is unstable (i.e. the electricity consumption produces oscillation, but its amplitude decreases when road conditions become better).
Design of a High-Precision Flyback Constant Voltage AC–DC Converter
Authors: Chang Changyuan , Hong Chao , Xu Yang , Sun Hailong , Chen Yao
Published: April 2017

A constant voltage AC–DC converter based on the digital assistant technology is proposed in this paper, which has the advantage of high output precision. In this paper, a novel digital exponential wave generator is adopted in Constant Voltage (CV) mode to replace the normal triangle waveform to obtain a wider range of switching frequency, increasing the accuracy of output voltage under light load. The control chip is implemented based on NEC 1[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m 5[Formula: see text]V/40[Formula: see text]V HVCMOS process, and a 5[Formula: see text]V/1.2[Formula: see text]A prototype has been built to verify the proposed control method. In PFM mode the deviation of output voltage is within [Formula: see text]% and the load regulation is [Formula: see text]%. Meanwhile, when the load jumps from light to heavy, the minimum output voltage could be maintained above 4.16[Formula: see text]V.
Euler-type equations and commutators in singular and hyperbolic limits of kinetic Cucker–Smale models
Authors: Poyato David , Soler Juan
Published: April 2017

This paper deals with the derivation and analysis of a compressible Euler-type equation with singular commutator, which is derived from a hyperbolic limit of the kinetic description to the Cucker–Smale model of interacting individuals.
Valuation semirings
Authors: Nasehpour Peyman
Published: April 2017

The main scope of this paper is to introduce the valuation semirings in general and discrete valuation semirings in particular. In order to do that, first, we define valuation maps and investigate them. Then we define valuation semirings with the help of valuation maps and prove that a multiplicatively cancellative semiring is a valuation semiring if and only if its ideals are totally ordered by inclusion. We also prove that if the unique maximal ideal of a valuation semiring is subtractive, then it is integrally closed. We end this paper by introducing discrete valuation semirings and show that a semiring is a discrete valuation semiring if and only if it is a multiplicatively cancellative principal ideal semiring possessing a nonzero unique maximal ideal. We also prove that a discrete valuation semiring is a Gaussian semiring if and only if its unique maximal ideal is subtractive.
Microscale data to macroscale processes: a review of microcharacterization applied to mineral systems
Authors: Pearce Mark A. , Godel Bélinda M. , Fisher Louise A. , Schoneveld Louise E. , Cleverley James S. , Oliver Nicholas H. S. , Nugus Michael
Published: April 2017

Microanalysis can provide rapid, quantitative characterization of mineral systems that complements the field- and core-scale observations traditionally made in ore deposits. We review recent innovations in microanalytical procedures and their application to studies of ore deposits. Case studies are presented examining how microanalysis can provide constraints on macroscopic processes within mineral systems. Synchrotron X-ray fluorescence shows centimetre-scale chemical variations associated with proximity to mineralization in samples from Sunrise Dam Gold Mine, Western Australia. Pseudomorphs of igneous plagioclase and chemically driven recrystallization interpreted from electron backscatter diffraction suggest that the system was dominated by fluid-driven brecciation with very little shearing. Both the fluid chemistry and fluid pressure evolved during a protracted sequence of vein formation and alteration accompanying gold mineralization. A second case study of sulphide mineralogy at the Mt Keith nickel sulphide deposit, Western Australia demonstrates how X-ray computed tomography combined with trace element mapping can constrain the chemistry and dynamics of magmatic systems. Large-scale interaction between silicate and sulphide melts, shown by homogenous palladium enrichment in pentlandite, leads to a large proportion of globular ores with a high nickel content. Increasing use of microanalysis in ore deposit geology is resulting in the constant reassessment of established models for ore genesis though a combination of micro- and macroscale datasets.
SYM-ILDL
Authors: Greif Chen , He Shiwen , Liu Paul
Published: April 2017

SYM-ILDL is a numerical software package that computes incomplete LDL
T
(ILDL) factorizations of symmetric indefinite and real skew-symmetric matrices. The core of the algorithm is a Crout variant of incomplete LU (ILU), originally introduced and implemented for symmetric matrices by Li and Saad [2005]. Our code is economical in terms of storage, and it deals with real skew-symmetric matrices as well as symmetric ones. The package is written in C++ and is templated, is open source, and includes a M

atlab
™

interface. The code includes built-in RCM and AMD reordering, two equilibration strategies, threshold Bunch-Kaufman pivoting, and rook pivoting, as well as a wrapper to MC64, a popular matching-based equilibration and reordering algorithm. We also include two built-in iterative solvers: SQMR, preconditioned with ILDL, and MINRES, preconditioned with a symmetric positive definite preconditioner based on the ILDL factorization.
Improv
Authors: Chen Xiang ‘Anthony’ , Li Yang
Published: April 2017

As computing devices become increasingly ubiquitous, it is now possible to combine the unique capabilities of different devices or Internet of Things to accomplish a task. However, there is currently a high technical barrier for creating cross-device interaction. This is especially challenging for end users who have limited technical expertise—end users would greatly benefit from custom cross-device interaction that best suits their needs. In this article, we present Improv, a cross-device input framework that allows a user to easily leverage the capability of additional devices to create new input methods for an existing, unmodified application, e.g., creating custom gestures on a smartphone to control a desktop presentation application. Instead of requiring developers to anticipate and program these cross-device behaviors in advance, Improv enables end users to improvise them on the fly by simple demonstration, for their particular needs and devices at hand. We showcase a range of scenarios where Improv is used to create a diverse set of useful cross-device input. Our study with 14 participants indicated that on average it took a participant 10 seconds to create a cross-device input technique. In addition, Improv achieved 93.7% accuracy in interpreting user demonstration of a target UI behavior by looking at the raw input events from a single example.
A Multiplexing Scheme for Multimodal Teleoperation
Authors: Cizmeci Burak , Xu Xiao , Chaudhari Rahul , Bachhuber Christoph , Alt Nicolas , Steinbach Eckehard
Published: April 2017

This article proposes an application-layer multiplexing scheme for teleoperation systems with multimodal feedback (video, audio, and haptics). The available transmission resources are carefully allocated to avoid delay-jitter for the haptic signal potentially caused by the size and arrival time of the video and audio data. The multiplexing scheme gives high priority to the haptic signal and applies a preemptive-resume scheduling strategy to stream the audio and video data. The proposed approach estimates the available transmission rate in real time and adapts the video bitrate, data throughput, and force buffer size accordingly. Furthermore, the proposed scheme detects sudden transmission rate drops and applies congestion control to avoid abrupt delay increases and converge promptly to the altered transmission rate. The performance of the proposed scheme is measured objectively in terms of end-to-end signal latencies, packet rates, and peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) for visual quality. Moreover, peak-delay and convergence time measurements are carried out to investigate the performance of the congestion control mode of the system.
Trade and the Environment: New Methods, Measurements, and Results
Authors: Cherniwchan Jevan , Copeland Brian R. , Taylor M. Scott
Published: April 2017

We review recent research linking international trade to the environment, with a focus on new results and methods. The review is given structure by a novel decomposition linking changes in emissions to changes in productive activity at the plant, firm, industry, and national levels. Although some new results have emerged from the application of a Melitz-style approach to trade and the environment, the full potential of this approach has not yet been realized. We discuss existing empirical and theoretical work, introduce three new hypotheses, and suggest paths for future researchers to follow.
Green Industrial Policy in Emerging Markets
Authors: Harrison Ann , Martin Leslie A. , Nataraj Shanthi
Published: April 2017

In this review, we discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with implementing green industrial policy in developing countries. These policies promote industries that produce green technologies and encourage traditional industries to produce goods and services in greener ways. We describe the experience in some emerging markets of voluntary programs to reduce emissions. Contrasting India and China's efforts to promote their solar photovoltaic industries, we also discuss the relative efficiency of promoting deployment versus promoting R&D. We also warn against expecting too much from policies that encourage renewables while governments simultaneously subsidize fossil fuels. The review discusses the potential of hybrid policies that combine command-and-control regulations targeted at the intensive margin for the largest polluters with market-based incentives that widen the reach of environmental regulations. We conclude with a discussion of how dismantling tariffs and facilitating foreign direct investment, ostensibly for nonenvironmental reasons, can have important environmental consequences.
Fatty acid uptake and blood flow in adipose tissue compartments of morbidly obese subjects with or without type 2 diabetes: effects of bariatric surgery
Authors: Dadson Prince , Ferrannini Ele , Landini Linda , Hannukainen Jarna C. , Kalliokoski Kari K. , Vaittinen Maija , Honka Henri , Karlsson Henry K. , Tuulari Jetro J. , Soinio Minna , Salminen Paulina , Parkkola Riitta , Pihlajamäki Jussi , Iozzo Patricia , Nuutila Pirjo
Published: April 2017

Body fat accumulation, distribution, and metabolic activity are factors in the pathophysiology of obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D). We investigated adipose blood flow, fatty acid uptake (FAU), and subcutaneous and visceral fat cellularity in obese patients with or without T2D. A total of 23 morbidly obese (mean body mass index = 42 kg/m2) patients were studied before and 6 mo after bariatric surgery; 15 nonobese subjects served as controls. Positron emission tomography was used to measure tissue FAU (with18F-FTHA) and blood flow (with H215O); MRI was used for fat distribution and fat biopsy for adipocyte size. Obese subjects had subcutaneous hyperplasia and hypertrophy and lower blood flow; when expressed per cell, flow was similar to controls. FAU into subcutaneous and visceral depots was increased in the obese; per unit tissue mass, however, FAU was similar to controls but reduced in skeletal muscle. Fatty acid fractional extraction in subcutaneous fat and muscle was only increased in obese patients with T2D. We conclude that surgery reduces subcutaneous fat hyperplasia and hypertrophy; subcutaneous blood flow and FAU decrease in absolute terms and per cell while fractional FAU remains unchanged in T2D. In the obese, subcutaneous blood flow is a determinant of FAU and is coupled with cellularity; efficiency of FAU is enhanced in subcutaneous fat and muscle in T2D.
PDGF receptor-β uses Akt/mTORC1 signaling node to promote high glucose-induced renal proximal tubular cell collagen I (α2) expression
Authors: Das Falguni , Ghosh-Choudhury Nandini , Venkatesan Balachandar , Kasinath Balakuntalam S. , Ghosh Choudhury Goutam
Published: April 2017

Increased expression of PDGF receptor-β (PDGFRβ) has been shown in renal proximal tubules in mice with diabetes. The core molecular network used by high glucose to induce proximal tubular epithelial cell collagen I (α2) expression is poorly understood. We hypothesized that activation of PDGFRβ by high glucose increases collagen I (α2) production via the Akt/mTORC1 signaling pathway in proximal tubular epithelial cells. Using biochemical and molecular biological techniques, we investigated this hypothesis. We show that high glucose increases activating phosphorylation of the PDGFRβ, resulting in phosphorylation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. A specific inhibitor, JNJ-10198409, and small interfering RNAs targeting PDGFRβ blocked this phosphorylation without having any effect on MEK/Erk1/2 activation. We also found that PDGFRβ regulates high glucose-induced Akt activation, its targets tuberin and PRAS40 phosphorylation, and finally, mTORC1 activation. Furthermore, inhibition of PDGFRβ suppressed high glucose-induced expression of collagen I (α2) in proximal tubular cells. Importantly, expression of constitutively active Akt or mTORC1 reversed these processes. As a mechanism, we found that JNJ and PDGFRβ knockdown inhibited high glucose-stimulated Hif1α expression. Furthermore, overexpression of Hif1α restored expression of collagen I (α2) that was inhibited by PDGFRβ knockdown in high glucose-stimulated cells. Finally, we show increased phosphorylation of PDGFRβ and its association with Akt/mTORC1 activation, Hif1α expression, and elevated collagen I (α2) levels in the renal cortex of mice with diabetes. Our results identify PDGFRβ as a driver in activating Akt/mTORC1 nexus for high glucose-mediated expression of collagen I (α2) in proximal tubular epithelial cells, which contributes to tubulointerstitial fibrosis in diabetic nephropathy.
The cerebellum contributes to proprioception during motion
Authors: Weeks Heidi M. , Therrien Amanda S. , Bastian Amy J.
Published: April 2017

We assessed limb position sense during movement in patients with cerebellar damage and found deficits in proprioceptive acuity during both passive and active movement. The effect of cerebellar damage was most apparent when individuals relied on both timing and spatial information during active movement. Thus proprioceptive acuity during active movements may be reliant on the motor system’s ability to predict motor output.
Preoperative Fasting among Adult Patients for Elective Surgery in a Kenyan Referral Hospital
Authors: Njoroge George , Kivuti-Bitok Lucy , Kimani Samuel
Published: April 2017

Background. Preoperative fasting (POF) is physiologically and precautionary important during anesthesia and surgery. POF from midnight has been practiced despite the recommended shorter practice. Objective. Assessing preoperative fasting among adult patients scheduled for elective surgery at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). Methods. A descriptive cross-sectional study involving 65 surgical patients. A questionnaire of mixed questions on demographics, reasons, source of instructions, opinion on instructions, time, premedication practices, outcome, and complains on NPO was used. Analysis was quantitatively done with SPSS v. 22. Ethical approval was obtained from KNH-UoN ERC. Results. Of the respondents 93.8% lacked knowledge on the correct reasons for POF and felt that the instructions were unclear and less important <50%. POF instructions were administered by nurses 80%, anesthetists 15%, and surgeons 5%. Most of respondents (73.8%) fasted > 15 hours. The POF outcomes were rated moderately challenging as follows: prolonged wait for surgery 44.6%, thirst 43.1%, hunger 36.9%, and anxiety 29.2%. Conclusion. Nurses are critical in providing POF instructions and care, and patient knowledge level is a mirror reflection of the quality of interventions. This underscores the need to build capacity for nurses and strengthen the health system to offer individualized preoperative interventions as well as monitoring and clinical auditing of fasting practices.
Detection of Temporal Anomalies for Partially Observed Timed PNs
Authors: Lefebvre Dimitri
Published: April 2017

This article concerns faults detection and isolation for timed stochastic discrete event systems modeled with partially observed timed Petri nets. Events occur according to arbitrary probability density functions. The models include the sensors used to measure events and markings and also the temporal constraints to be satisfied by the system operations. These temporal constraints are defined according to tolerance intervals specified for each transition. A fault is an operation that ends too early or too late. The set of trajectories consistent with a given timed measured trajectory is first computed. Then, the probability that the temporal specifications are unsatisfied is estimated for any sequence of measurements and the probability that a temporal fault has occurred is obtained as a consequence.
Transcriptional Profiling at High Temporal Resolution Reveals Robust Immune/Inflammatory Responses during Rat Sciatic Nerve Recovery
Authors: Xing Lingyan , Cheng Qiong , Zha Guangbin , Yi Sheng
Published: April 2017

After peripheral nerve injury, immune/inflammatory responses are triggered, which are critical for nerve regeneration. Despite their importance, the underlying molecular changes in immune/inflammatory responses remain largely unknown. In this study, we systematically analyzed differentially expressed genes in immune/inflammatory-related pathways at high temporal resolution and experimentally validated gene expression changes with RT-PCR following sciatic nerve crush in rats. We found that immune/inflammatory reactions not only occur in the acute injury but also remained activated over two weeks after injury. Detailed bioinformatic studies suggested that multiple immune/inflammatory pathways, including agranulocyte adhesion and diapedesis, granulocyte adhesion and diapedesis, IL-6 signaling, and IL-10 signaling, were sustained activated during nerve degeneration and regeneration. Our current study expands our understanding of the molecular basis of altered immune/inflammatory-related pathways following injury and thus might offer the possibility of targeting related molecules as therapeutic intervention for peripheral nerve regeneration.
A Retrospective Analysis of Oxygen Desaturation during Acoustic Respiratory Rate Monitoring in Non-ICU Patients following Tracheal Extubation after General Anesthesia
Authors: Kawanishi Hideaki , Inoue Satoki , Kawaguchi Masahiko
Published: April 2017

Purpose. Acoustic respiratory rate (RRa) monitoring provides an accurate estimation of the respiratory rate (RR). We investigated the incidence of oxygen desaturation under RRa monitoring in a postoperative setting and identified its related factors.Methods. This study was a retrospective chart review of postoperative patients outside an intensive care unit setting. Using the data collected during the first 8 h postoperatively, patients were divided into oxygen desaturated (SpO2< 90% for >10 s) and nondesaturated groups under oxygen administration. Multivariate analysis was used to determine oxygen desaturation-associated explanatory factors.Results. Oxygen desaturation was detected in 102 of 935 patients (10.9%). % vital capacity [odds ratio (OR), 0.885 per 10% increase; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.790 to 0.992], coexisting chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (OR, 2.195; 95% CI, 1.088 to 4.428), and absence of a critical RRa change (RR > 30 or <8 beats/min for >2 min) (OR, 1.972; 95% CI, 1.226 to 3.172) were independently associated with oxygen desaturation.Conclusion. Postoperative oxygen desaturation was observed in more than 10% of the patients whose RR was monitored by RRa under oxygen therapy. It is more likely to occur in patients with impaired pulmonary function or morbid pulmonary status and can also occur in the absence of abnormal RR.
Linear Precoding Scheme Design for MIMO Two‐Way Relay Systems with Imperfect Channel State Information
Authors: Chen Xiao-min , Su Jun-xu , Zhu Qiu-ming , Hu Xu-jun , Fang Zhu
Published: April 2017

The aim of this paper is to investigate a linear precoding scheme design for a multiple‐input multiple‐output two‐way relay system with imperfect channel state information. The scheme design is simplified as an optimal problem with precoding matrix variables, which is deduced with the maximum power constraint at the relay station based on the minimum mean square error criterion. With channel feedback delay at both ends of the channel and the channel estimation errors being taken into account, we propose a matrix decomposition scheme and a joint iterative scheme to minimize the average sum mean square error. The matrix decomposition method is used to derive the closed form of the relay matrix, and the joint iterative algorithm is used to optimize the precoding matrix and the processing matrix. According to numerical simulation results, the matrix decomposition scheme reduces the system bit error rate (BER) effectively and the joint iterative scheme achieves the best performance of BER against existing methods.
Echographic Evaluation of a Subconjunctival Cystic Lesion
Authors: De Bernardo Maddalena , Iaccarino Gennarfrancesco , Russo Valeria , Rosa Nicola
Published: April 2017

Migration of intraocular silicone oil, used in the treatment of complicated retinal detachment, has been rarely described, but when it happens it can arise with a differential diagnosis with scleral buckling extrusion, tumor, dermoid, ocular cysticercosis, and abscess. The presence of silicone oil in the eye gives very ugly echographic pictures, but these kinds of pictures can be very useful in making a differential diagnosis in the above-mentioned cases. A 39-year-old white female complained of the presence of conjunctival hyperemia and tearing in the right eye (RE); her visual acuity was hand motion, and the intraocular pressure was 14 mmHg. In the upper nasal quadrant a dome shaped lesion was detected. Due to the lens opacities, the patient underwent an echographic examination, which revealed the presence of silicon oil both in the vitreous chamber and in a large subconjunctival space, corresponding to the lesion. This article in addition provides a possible explanation of such cystic formation and discusses the risk factors and the role of the echographic examination in such cases.
Role of Transbronchial Lung Cryobiopsies in Diffuse Parenchymal Lung Diseases: Interest of a Sequential Approach
Authors: Bondue Benjamin , Pieters Thierry , Alexander Patrick , De Vuyst Paul , Ruiz Patino Maria , Hoton Delphine , Remmelink Myriam , Leduc Dimitri
Published: April 2017

Background. Transbronchial lung cryobiopsies (TBLCs) are a promising diagnostic tool in the setting of diffuse parenchymal lung diseases (DPLDs). However, no comparison with surgical lung biopsy (SLB) in the same patient is available. Methods. The diagnostic yield and safety data of TBLCs, as well as the result of SLB performed after TBLCs, were analysed in a multicentric Belgian study. A SLB was performed after TBLCs in absence of a definite pathological diagnosis or if a NSIP pattern was observed without related condition identified following multidisciplinary discussion. Results. Between April 2015 and November 2016, 30 patients were included. Frequent complications included pneumothorax (20%) and bleeding (severe 7%, moderate 33%, and mild 53%). There was no mortality. The overall diagnostic yield was 80%. A SLB was performed in six patients (three without definite histological pattern and three with an NSIP). The surgical biopsy changed the pathological diagnosis into a UIP pattern in five patients and confirmed a NSIP pattern in one patient. Conclusion. TBLCs are useful in the diagnostic work-up of DPLDs avoiding a SLB in 80% of the patients. However, surgical biopsies, performed as a second step after TBLCs because of an indefinite diagnosis or a NSIP pattern, provide additional information supporting the interest of a sequential approach in these patients.
Review and Comparison of High-Dynamic Range Three-Dimensional Shape Measurement Techniques
Authors: Lin Hui , Gao Jian , Zhang Guanjin , Chen Xin , He Yunbo , Liu Yan
Published: April 2017

In the last decade, a significant number of techniques for three-dimensional (3D) shape measurement have been proposed. There are a large number of measurement demands for metallic workpieces with shiny surfaces in industrial applications; however, such shiny surfaces cannot be directly measured using the conventional structured light method. Therefore, various techniques have been investigated to solve this problem over the last few years. Some reviews summarize the different 3D imaging techniques; however, no comprehensive review exists that provides an insight into high-dynamic range (HDR) 3D shape measurement techniques used for shiny surfaces. We present a survey of recent HDR techniques for the digitization of shiny surfaces and classify and discuss the advantages and drawbacks of different techniques with respect to each other.
IL4 Primes the Dynamics of Breast Cancer Progression via DUSP4 Inhibition
Authors: Gaggianesi Miriam , Turdo Alice , Chinnici Aurora , Lipari Elisa , Apuzzo Tiziana , Benfante Antonina , Sperduti Isabella , Di Franco Simone , Meraviglia Serena , Lo Presti Elena , Dieli Francesco , Caputo Valentina , Militello Gabriella , Vieni Salvatore , Stassi Giorgio , Todaro Matilde
Published: April 2017

The tumor microenvironment supplies proinflammatory cytokines favoring a permissive milieu for cancer cell growth and invasive behavior. Here we show how breast cancer progression is facilitated by IL4 secreted by adipose tissue and estrogen receptor–positive and triple-negative breast cancer cell types. Blocking autocrine and paracrine IL4 signaling with the IL4Rα antagonist IL4DM compromised breast cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and tumor growth by downregulating MAPK pathway activity. IL4DM reduced numbers of CD44+/CD24− cancer stem-like cells and elevated expression of the dual specificity phosphatase DUSP4 by inhibiting NF-κB. Enforced expression of DUSP4 drove conversion of metastatic cells to nonmetastatic cells. Mechanistically, RNAi-mediated attenuation of DUSP4 activated the ERK and p38 MAPK pathways, increased stem-like properties, and spawned metastatic capacity. Targeting IL4 signaling sensitized breast cancer cells to anticancer therapy and strengthened immune responses by enhancing the number of IFNγ-positive CTLs. Our results showed the role of IL4 in promoting breast cancer aggressiveness and how its targeting may improve the efficacy of current therapies. Cancer Res; 77(12); 3268–79. ©2017 AACR.
Combined Genetic Biomarkers and Betel Quid Chewing for Identifying High-Risk Group for Oral Cancer Occurrence
Authors: Chung Chia-Min , Lee Chien-Hung , Chen Mu-Kuan , Lee Ka-Wo , Lan Cheng-Che E. , Kwan Aij-Lie , Tsai Ming-Hsui , Ko Ying-Chin
Published: April 2017

We integrated genetic risk scores (GRS) and environmental factors for identifying high-risk subjects for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) occurrence by using case–control study. A total of 447 patients diagnosed with OSCC and 580 unrelated subjects were recruited from two medical centers in Taiwan. A multinomial logistic regression model was conducted to access interaction between GRS and betel quid (BQ) chewing. We employed ROC curve to compare the accuracy of OSCC occurrence. Four tag SNPs were found in NOTCH1, BRCA1, COL9A1, and HSPA13 genes that were significantly associated with OSCC occurrence. GRS was calculated by the four tag SNP risk alleles. The higher GRS (scores = 4) remained independently associated with risk of OSCC after adjustment for age, the use of alcohol, BQ, and cigarette: adjusted OR = 4.42 [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.34–14.55]. The GRS and BQ chewing interaction showed an increased risk for OSCC occurrence with adjusting for other substance use and age (OR = 70.77; 95% CI, 8.70–575.73). The synergy index was 16.58 (95% CI, 2.27–70.56), suggesting a positive additive interaction between GRS and BQ chewing. The areas under the ROC curves (AUROC) were 0.91 for combined GRS and BQ chewing with sensitivity of 88.6% and specificity of 86.7%. The AUROC of GRS and BQ chewing is above 90%, which may be valuable in identifying high-risk subjects. Early screening can allow the clinician to provide the appropriate intervention and to reduce the OSCC occurrence. Cancer Prev Res; 10(6); 355–62. ©2017 AACR.
Implicating Receptor Activator of NF-κB (RANK)/RANK Ligand Signalling in Microglial Responses to Toll-Like Receptor Stimuli
Authors: Kichev Anton , Eede Pascale , Gressens Pierre , Thornton Claire , Hagberg Henrik
Published: April 2017

Inflammation in the perinatal brain caused by maternal or intrauterine fetal infection is now well established as an important contributor to the development of perinatal brain injury. Exposure to inflammatory products can impair perinatal brain development and act as a risk factor for neurological dysfunction, cognitive disorders, cerebral palsy, or preterm birth. Pre-exposure to inflammation significantly exacerbates brain injury caused by hypoxic/ischaemic insult. Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) is a family of cytokines largely involved in inflammation signalling. In our previous study, we identified the importance of TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) signalling in the development of perinatal brain injury. We observed a significant increase in the expression levels of a soluble decoy receptor for TRAIL, osteoprotegerin (OPG). Besides TRAIL, OPG is able to bind the receptor activator of the NF-κB (RANK) ligand (RANKL) and inhibit its signalling. The function of the RANK/RANKL/OPG system in the brain has not come under much scrutiny. The aim of this research study was to elucidate the role of RANK, RANKL, and OPG in microglial responses to the proinflammatory stimuli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C). Here, we show that RANK signalling is important for regulating the activation of the BV2 microglial cell line. We found that LPS treatment causes a significant decrease in the expression of RANK in the BV2 cell line while significantly increasing the expression of OPG, Toll-like receptor (TLR)3, and the adaptor proteins MyD88 and TRIF. We found that pretreatment of BV2 cells with RANKL for 24 h before the LPS or Poly I:C exposure decreases the expression of inflammatory markers such as inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase. This is accompanied by a decreased expression of the TLR adaptor proteins MyD88 and TRIF, which we observed after RANKL treatment. Similar results were obtained in our experiments with primary mouse microglia. Using recently developed CRISPR/Cas9 technology, we generated a BV2 cell line lacking RANK (RANK-/- BV2). We showed that most effects of RANKL pretreatment were abolished, thereby proving the specificity of this effect. Taken together, these findings suggest that RANK signalling is important for modulating the inflammatory activation of microglial cells to a moderate level, and that RANK attenuates TLR3/TLR4 signalling.
Matched Comparison of Self-Expanding Transcatheter Heart Valves for the Treatment of Failed Aortic Surgical Bioprosthesis
Authors: Alnasser Sami , Cheema Asim N. , Simonato Matheus , Barbanti Marco , Edwards Jeremy , Kornowski Ran , Horlick Eric , Wijeysundera Harindra C. , Testa Luca , Bedogni Francesco , Amrane Hafid , Walther Thomas , Pelletier Marc , Latib Azeem , Laborde Jean-Claude , Hildick-Smith David , Kim Won-Keun , Tchetche Didier , Agrifoglio Marco , Sinning Jan-Malte , van Boven Ad J. , Kefer Joëlle , Frerker Christian , van Mieghem Nicolas M. , Linke Axel , Worthley Stephen , Asgar Anita , Sgroi Carmelo , Aziz Mina , Danenberg Haim D. , Labinaz Marino , Manoharan Ganesh , Cheung Anson , Webb John G. , Dvir Danny
Published: April 2017

Background—

Transcatheter valve-in-valve implantation is an established therapy for high-risk patients with failed surgical aortic bioprosthesis. There are limited data comparing outcomes of valve-in-valve implantation using different transcatheter heart valves (THV).

Methods and Results—

Patients included in the Valve-in-Valve International Data registry (VIVID) and treated with self-expanding THV devices were analyzed using centralized core laboratory blinded to clinical events. St. Jude Medical Portico versus Medtronic CoreValve were compared in a 1:2 fashion after propensity score matching. A total of 162 patients, Portico- (n=54) and CoreValve- (n=108) based valve-in-valve procedures comprised the study population with no significant difference in baseline characteristics (age, 79±8.2 years; 60% women; mean STS [Society of Thoracic Surgery] score 8.1±5.5%). Postimplantation, CoreValve was associated with a larger effective orifice area (1.67 versus 1.31 cm
2
;
P
=0.001), lower mean gradient (14±7.5 versus 17±7.5 mm Hg;
P
=0.02), and lower core laboratory–adjudicated moderate-to-severe aortic insufficiency (4.2% versus 13.7%;
P
=0.04), compared with Portico. Procedural complications including THV malpositioning, second THV requirement, or coronary obstruction were not significantly different between the 2 groups. Survival and stroke rates at 30 days were similar, but overall mortality at 1 year was higher among patients treated with Portico compared with CoreValve (22.6% versus 9.1%;
P
=0.03).

Conclusions—

In this first matched comparison of THVs for valve-in-valve implantations, Portico and CoreValve demonstrated differences in postprocedural hemodynamics and long-term clinical outcomes. Although this could be related to THV design characteristics, the impact of other procedural factors cannot be excluded and require further evaluation.
Saline-Induced Coronary Hyperemia
Authors: De Bruyne Bernard , Adjedj Julien , Xaplanteris Panagiotis , Ferrara Angela , Mo Yujing , Penicka Martin , Floré Vincent , Pellicano Mariano , Toth Gabor , Barbato Emanuele , Duncker Dirk J. , Pijls Nico H.J.
Published: April 2017

Background—

During thermodilution-based assessment of volumetric coronary blood flow, we observed that intracoronary infusion of saline increased coronary flow. This study aims to quantify the extent and unravel the mechanisms of saline-induced hyperemia.

Methods and Results—

Thirty-three patients were studied; in 24 patients, intracoronary Doppler flow velocity measurements were performed at rest, after intracoronary adenosine, and during increasing infusion rates of saline at room temperature through a dedicated catheter with 4 lateral side holes. In 9 patients, global longitudinal strain and flow propagation velocity were assessed by transthoracic echocardiography during a prolonged intracoronary saline infusion. Taking adenosine-induced maximal hyperemia as reference, intracoronary infusion of saline at rates of 5, 10, 15, and 20 mL/min induced 6%, 46%, 111%, and 112% of maximal hyperemia, respectively. There was a close agreement of maximal saline- and adenosine-induced coronary flow reserve (intraclass correlation coefficient, 0.922;
P
<0.001). The same infusion rates given through 1 end hole (n=6) or in the contralateral artery (n=6) did not induce a significant increase in flow velocity. Intracoronary saline given on top of an intravenous infusion of adenosine did not further increase flow. Intracoronary saline infusion did not affect blood pressure, systolic, or diastolic left ventricular function. Heart rate decreased by 15% during saline infusion (
P
=0.021).

Conclusions—

Intracoronary infusion of saline at room temperature through a dedicated catheter for coronary thermodilution induces steady-state maximal hyperemia at a flow rate ≥15 mL/min. These findings open new possibilities to measure maximal absolute coronary blood flow and minimal microcirculatory resistance.
A new species and taxonomical notes on some other Catocala Schrank, 1802 (Lepidoptera, Erebidae) from China
Authors: SALDAITIS AIDAS , PEKARSKY OLEG , BORTH ROBERT J.
Published: April 2017

A new species, Catocala nilssoni, sp. n., from the Liaoning and Shandong Provinces of northeast China is described. The new species clearly differs in wing pattern and genitalia from any other Catocala species. DNA results for one specimen of the new species further confirms its morphological exclusivity. Actual Catocala danilovi (O. Bang-Haas, 1927) male genitalia is pictured for the first time and the taxonomical status of the related Catocala florianii Saldaitis & Ivinskis, 2008 is discussed.
A new species of Pamphagus (Orthoptera: Pamphagidae) from Algeria with a key to all the species of the genus
Authors: BENKENANA NAIMA , MASSA BRUNO
Published: April 2017

The authors describe Pamphagus milevitanus n. sp. occurring in the North and South highlands of Constantine, in Mila, Setif and Oum-el Bouaghi provinces, where it is fairly common. They compare the characters of this species with those of the most related species of the genus and present a complete plate and a key to all the species of the genus Pamphagus known to date.
Synalpheus pinkfloydi sp. nov., a new pistol shrimp from the tropical eastern Pacific (Decapoda: Alpheidae)
Authors: ANKER ARTHUR , HULTGREN KRISTIN M. , GRAVE SAMMY DE
Published: April 2017

A new, conspicuously coloured species of the alpheid genus Synalpheus Spence Bate, 1888, is described based on material collected on the Pacific coast of Panama. Synalpheus pinkfloydi sp. nov. is closely related to the western Atlantic S. antillensis Coutière, 1909, the two taxa being transisthmian, cryptic sister species. Both species are characterised by the distal areas of their major and minor chelae coloured in an intense, almost glowing pink-red. The morphological differences between S. pinkfloydi sp. nov. and S. antillensis Coutière, 1909 are subtle, being limited to the slightly different proportions of the merus of both chelipeds, distodorsal armature of the major cheliped merus, relative length of the antennal scaphocerite, and body size. However, they are genetically different with a 10.2% sequence divergence in COI. Based on molecular clock estimates, these transisthmian taxa diverged around 6.8–7.8 mya, i.e. well before the final closure of the Isthmus of Panama 2.5–3 mya.
A new species of Nemoura (Plecoptera: Nemouridae) from Jiangsu Province, China, with new illustrations for Nemoura nankinensis Wu
Authors: CHEN ZHI-TENG , DU YU-ZHOU
Published: April 2017

A new species of Nemoura (Plecoptera: Nemouridae), N. fusiformis sp. nov. from Jiangsu Province, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is characterized by a strongly sclerotized large hook formed by outer margin of the outer lobe of the paraproct and by the outer sclerite of cercus with a sub-triangular medial process. The new species is compared with similar taxa. Additionally, supplementary illustrations for N. nankinensis Wu, 1926 are also provided.
Immatures of Cerambycinae (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) collected in Litchi chinensis Sonn. (Sapindaceae) in Brazil
Authors: CASARI SÔNIA A. , ALBERTONI FABIANO F.
Published: April 2017

Larvae and pupae of Coleoxestia waterhousei (Gounelle, 1909) (Cerambycini: Sphallotrichina) and Retrachydes thoracicus (Olivier, 1790) (Trachyderini: Trachyderina), collected in lychee trees, are described and illustrated. This is the first record of Litchi chinensis Sonn. as a host plant Retrachydes thoracicus.