bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Significance of HLA DRB1*1501 and Oligoclonal Bands in Multiple Sclerosis: Clinical Features and Disability
Authors: Balnytė Renata , Rastenytė Daiva , Ulozienė Ingrida , Mickevičienė Dalia , Skrodenienė Erika , Vitkauskienė Astra
Published: May 2018

The aim of the present study was to determine the value of immunogenetic risk factors and to estimate their relationship with the clinical features and disability status of patients with multiple sclerosis in a Lithuanian population. Materials and Methods. This was a prospective study of 80 patients with multiple sclerosis. The diagnosis of multiple sclerosis was based on the revised McDonald criteria. Oligoclonal bands (OCBs) of immunoglobulin G (IgG) were tested using isoelectric focusing and IgG specific immunofixation. HLA DRB1 alleles were genotyped using polymerase chain reaction. Results. Of all patients, 55% were positive for OCBs and 56% for HLA DRB1*1501. OCBpositive patients with multiple sclerosis had higher EDSS scores than their OCB-negative counterparts at onset of the disease (3.93±1.21 and 3.36±0.96 points, respectively; P=0.02) and during the last visit (4.31±2.06 and 3.09±1.98 points, respectively; P=0.009). The mean relapse rate was higher in the OCB-positive group compared with OCB-negative group (1.45±0.69 and 0.58±0.64, respectively; P=0.001). OCB-positive patients had higher IgG index compared with OCB-negative patients (P=0.0001). No relationship was found between HLA DRB1*1501 antigen status and the clinical features or EDSS score, and presence or absence of OCB in the present subset of patients with multiple sclerosis. Conclusions. The presence of oligoclonal bands in the cerebrospinal fluid of the patients with multiple sclerosis was associated with the greater number of exacerbations, higher degree of disability, and higher IgG index. There were no significant associations between the presence of HLA DRB1*1501 allele and the clinical symptoms, course of disease, or disability score.
Associations Between Chronic Pain and Depressive Symptoms in Patients With Trigeminal Neuralgia
Authors: Mačianskytė Diana , Janužis Gintaras , Kubilius Ričardas , Adomaitienė Virginija , Ščiupokas Arūnas
Published: May 2018

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a rare neuropathic disorder with an excruciating facial pain. The unpredictable pain attacks may result in anxiety and depression. The aim of this study was to determine and to evaluate the level of chronic facial pain and its association with the appearance of anxiety and depression. Materials and Methods. A total of 30 patients with TN and chronic facial pain (group A, 25 women and 5 men; mean age, 64.2±3.2 years) and 30 with atypical facial pain (group B, 26 women and 4 men; mean age, 64.8±1.9 years) were examined. A standardized diagnostic protocol was applied to all of them, which consisted of the following: 1) demographic data and estimation of overall pain on a visual analog scale; and 2) evaluation of emotional status using the Sheehan Disability Scale, Covi’s Anxiety Scale, and Beck Depression Inventory. Results. The intensity of facial pain was much higher in the group A than the group B (89.7±2.5 versus 44.0±2.9, P<0.0001). Besides, the group A reported increased scores on the disability and anxiety symptom scales (17.4±1.3 and 9.7±0.3 vs. 6.4±0.7 and 3.6±0.1, respectively, P<0.0001). Severe (46.7%) or moderate (30%) levels of depression were documented in the majority of patients in the group A, while the group B did not show depressive symptoms (P<0.0001). Conclusions. Patients with TN and chronic facial pain had a significantly higher level of pain perception, and they presented the higher level for anxiety and depression than those with atypical facial pain. A multidisciplinary approach is needed for the additional assessment of emotional status of patients in order to improve the efficacy of treatment and patients’ quality of life.
Occupational Effects on the Family Well-being of Dentists in Lithuania: A Survey of Dentists
Authors: Pūrienė Alina , Aleksejūnienė Jolanta , Petrauskienė Jadvyga , Balčiūnienė Irena , Janulytė Vilija
Published: May 2018

Background and Objective. Work-related commitments unavoidably interfere with the dentist’s everyday life. Therefore, the objective of our study was to assess the impact that a dentist’s occupation might have on the family well-being. Material and Methods. The questionnaire was sent to all (N=2449) licensed dentists registered in the Lithuanian Dental Association (response rate, 68.2%). The data were analyzed by means of multiple logistic regression analysis. Results. Most dentists reported difficulties in reconciliation of their professional activities and family life, i.e., insufficient time to spend with a family, necessity to reduce family leisure activities, neglected duties to the family, limited time for hobbies, and work-related anxiety and nervousness at home. These hazardous occupational effects were mainly related to long working hours, which negatively affected all areas of family life. Conclusions. Occupational hazards, particularly long working hours of dental practitioners, had negative effects on all areas of the dentist’s family life. Although dentists frequently faced difficulties in reconciliation of their professional activities and their family interests, in general, they had quite a harmonious family life. The findings suggest that the focus should be on finding the ways to reduce working hours in order to facilitate the reconciliation of a successful dental practice and family life. Additionally, there might be other effective means, e.g., to cope with stress or to develop better working and leisure time management skills.
A Primary Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumor of the Central Nervous System in a 51-year-old Woman: a Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ašmonienė Virginija , Skiriutė Daina , Gudinavičienė Inga , Tamašauskas Šarūnas , Skauminas Kęstutis , Deltuva Vytenis , Tamašauskas Arimantas
Published: May 2018

Primitive neuroectodermal tumors are a group of rare, aggressive, and highly malignant embryonal tumors of unknown etiology of the central and peripheral nervous systems. It is a term for a group of small round cell tumors thought to be derived from fetal neuroectodermal precursor cells. Primitive neuroectodermal tumor is usually described as a tumor of children younger than 15 years and is very rare in adults. The article presents a short literature review and a rare case of a primary primitive neuroectodermal tumor of the central nervous system diagnosed in a 51-year-old woman.
Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance for Visualization of Myocardial Ischemia at Rest
Authors: Glaveckaitė Sigita , Palionis Darius , Valevičienė Nomeda , Bilkis Valdas , Aganauskienė-Burkuvienė Jūratė , Šerpytis Pranas , Laucevičius Aleksandras
Published: May 2018

This article presents the case of a 54-year-old male with evidence of myocardial ischemia at rest. In our case, by means of cardiovascular magnetic resonance, myocardial ischemia at rest in theoretical left anterior descending artery territory was proved, myocardial scar was excluded, and need for revascularization was validated.
Differences in Risk Factors and Prevalence of Vascular Calcification between Pre-Dialysis and Hemodialysis Balkan Nephropathy Patients
Authors: Petković Nenad , Ristić Siniša , Marinković Jelena , Marić Radmil , Kovačević Marijana , Djukanović Ljubica
Published: May 2018

Aims: The aim of this study was to compare the risk factors and prevalence of vascular calcification (VC) in pre-dialysis and hemodialysis (HD) patients with Balkan endemic nephropathy (BEN) or other kidney diseases (non-BEN). Materials and Methods: The study involved 115 patients, 32 pre-dialysis and 83 HD patients, separated into groups of BEN and non-BEN patients. In addition to interviews, objective examinations and laboratory analyses, VC was assessed using Adragao score. Results: Patients with BEN were significantly older in both groups, while pre-dialysis BEN patients had significantly lower systolic blood pressure, serum cholesterol and phosphorus levels, but higher urinary excretion of phosphorus than non-BEN patients. These differences were lost in HD groups. In pre-dialysis patients, prevalence of VC was lower in BEN than in non-BEN group and mean VC score differed significantly between them (2.8 (1.7) vs. 4.6 (1.8); p = 0.009). No significant difference in VC score was found between BEN and non-BEN patients on HD. Multivariate analysis showed that in pre-dialysis patients VC score >4 was associated with lower iPTH and higher serum cholesterol level, but in the HD group with higher serum triglyceride level and longer HD vintage. Conclusions: Lower prevalence of risk factors for VC in the BEN than non-BEN patients was found in pre-dialysis but not in HD group and this was reflected in the prevalence and severity of VC in the groups. Prevalence of VC and mean VC score were significantly lower in pre-dialysis BEN than in non-BEN patients but not for those on HD.
Histopathological Classification—A Prognostic Tool for Rapidly Progressive Glomerulonephritis
Authors: Kantauskaitė Marta , Laučytė-Cibulskienė Agnė , Miglinas Marius
Published: May 2018

Background: Recently proposed histopathological classification may predict patient outcome in pauci-immune glomerulonephritis. This study sought to prove that the prognostic effect could be extended to all types of rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. Methods: Retrospective analysis of patients diagnosed with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis between April 1999 and August 2015 was performed. Epidemiological and clinical data were collected from medical records. The descriptions of renal biopsies were reviewed and classified into focal, sclerotic, crescentic and mixed class according to classification proposed by Berden et al. The study end points were end stage renal disease (ESRD) or death. Survival analyses were modelled using Cox regression. Results: 73 renal biopsies with diagnosis of rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis were included in the study. 25 (34.2%), 16 (21.9%), 24 (32.9%) and 8 (11%) patients were assigned to focal, crescentic, mixed and sclerotic class, respectively. Thirty-two (42.5%) patients were anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) negative, of which eight (10.9%) were anti–glomerular basement membrane antibody (anti–GBM) positive and 24 (32.8%) were negative for autoimmune antibodies. Six (8.2%) patients died within one year. Among patients who survived, median change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) values were: −10.5 mL/min in focal, 4.2 mL/min in crescentic, −4.3 mL/min in mixed and 4.1 mL/min in sclerotic group, p > 0.05. In the Cox regression model, there was no significant predictor of patient survival whereas the sclerotic group (HR 3.679, 95% CI, 1.164–11.628, p < 0.05) and baseline eGFR of <15 mL/min (HR 4.832, 95% CI, 1.55–15.08, p < 0.01) had an unfavorable effect for renal survival. Conclusions: Predominant glomerular sclerosis and low eGFR at baseline are associated with higher risk of ESRD in cases with crescentic glomerulonephritis. Therefore, despite the origin of injury, histological classification might aid in prediction of patient outcomes in rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis.
Microstructure and Mechanical Characterization of a Dissimilar Friction-Stir-Welded CuCrZr/CuNiCrSi Butt Joint
Authors: Sun Youqing , He Diqiu , Xue Fei , Lai Ruilin , He Guoai
Published: May 2018

Dissimilar CuNiCrSi and CuCrZr butt joints were successfully frictionstirwelded at constant welding speed of 150 mm/min and rotational speed of 1400 rpm with the CuCrZr alloy or the CuNiCrSi alloy located on the advancing side (AS). The microstructure and mechanical properties of joints were investigated. When the CuCrZr alloy was located on the AS, the area of retreating material in the nugget zone was a little bigger. The Cr solute-rich particles were found in the nugget zone on CuCrZr side (CuCrZr-NZ) while a larger density of solute-rich particles identified as the concentration of Cr and Si element was found in the nugget zone on CuNiCrSi side (CuNiCrSi-NZ). The Cr precipitates and δ-Ni2Si precipitates were found in the base metal on CuNiCrSi side (CuNiCrSi-BM) but only Cr precipitates can be observed in the base metal on CuCrZr side (CuCrZr-BM). Precipitates were totally dissolved into Cu matrix in both CuCrZr-NZ and CuNiCrSi-NZ, which led to a sharp decrease in both micro-hardness and tensile strength from BM to NZ. When the CuNiCrSi was located on the AS, the tensile testing results showed the fracture occurred at the CuCrZr-NZ, while the fracture was found at the mixed zone of CuNiCrSi-NZ and CuCrZr-NZ for the other case.
Effect of Zr Additions on Thermal Stability of Al-Cu Precipitates in As-Cast and Cold Worked Samples
Authors: Deane Kyle , Sanders Paul
Published: May 2018

While Zr is frequently added to Al alloys to control grain size with the formation of large (>1 μm) primary precipitates, little research has been conducted on the effect of nanoscale Al3Zr precipitates on Al alloys. By comparing the precipitation and corresponding strength evolution between Al-Cu-Zr alloys with different Zr concentrations, the effects of Zr on Al-Cu precipitation with and without primary Al3Zr precipitates can be observed. In the absence of these large precipitates, all Al3Zr phases can be formed, through high temperature aging treatments, as a dispersion of nanoprecipaites inside the Al grains. In this study, Al-Cu-Zr ternary alloys were produced and heat treated to determine whether an increase in the coarsening resistance of Al-Cu precipitate phases would be observed with a distribution of the more thermally stable Al3Zr nanoprecipitates. Generally, properly aged Al-Cu alloys will coarsen when encountering elevated temperatures higher than ~473 K (~200 °C). Diluted Al-Zr alloys (<0.07 at % Zr) resist coarsening behavior until the significantly higher temperatures of ~673 K (~400 °C), but are comparatively limited in strength because of a limited solubility of Zr in the Al matrix. Hardness testing and transmission electron microscope (TEM) results are discussed, in which it is found that even very small additions of Zr, when properly accounted for during heat treating, produce a finer microstructure and higher strength than in similar Al-Cu binary alloys. No significant change in the thermal stability of strengthening was observed, indicating that the finer precipitate microstructure is resultant from a higher nucleation density, as opposed to a decrease in coarsening behavior.
Quantitative and Discriminative Evaluation of Contents of Phenolic and Flavonoid and Antioxidant Competence for Chinese Honeys from Different Botanical Origins
Authors: Shen Shi , Wang Jingbo , Zhuo Qin , Chen Xi , Liu Tingting , Zhang Shuang-Qing
Published: May 2018

Phenolics and flavonoids in honey are considered as the main phytonutrients which not only act as natural antioxidants, but can also be used as floral markers for honey identification. In this study, the chemical profiles of phenolics and flavonoids, antioxidant competences including total phenolic content, DPPH and ABTS assays and discrimination using chemometric analysis of various Chinese monofloral honeys from six botanical origins (acacia, Vitex, linden, rapeseed, Astragalus and Codonopsis) were examined. A reproducible and sensitive ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method was optimized and validated for the simultaneous determination of 38 phenolics, flavonoids and abscisic acid in honey. Formononetin, ononin, calycosin and calycosin-7-O-β-d-glucoside were identified and quantified in honeys for the first time. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed obvious differences among the honey samples in three-dimensional space accounting for 72.63% of the total variance. Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) also revealed that the botanical origins of honey samples correlated with their phenolic and flavonoid contents. Partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) classification was performed to derive a model with high prediction ability. Orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) model was employed to identify markers specific to a particular honey type. The results indicated that Chinese honeys contained various and discriminative phenolics and flavonoids, as well as antioxidant competence from different botanical origins, which was an alternative approach to honey identification and nutritional evaluation.
Semisynthesis, Characterization and Evaluation of New Adenosine Derivatives as Antiproliferative Agents
Authors: Valdés Zurita Francisco , Brown Vega Nelson , Gutiérrez Cabrera Margarita
Published: May 2018

We describe the semisynthesis and biological effects of adenosine derivatives, which were anticipated to function as agonists for the A3 receptor. Molecular docking was used to select candidate compounds. Fifteen nucleoside derivatives were obtained through nucleophilic substitutions of the N6-position of the nucleoside precursor 6-chloropurine riboside by amines of different origin. All compounds were purified by column chromatography and further characterized by spectroscopic and spectrometric techniques, showing moderate yield. These molecules were then evaluated for their antiproliferative activity in human gastric cancer cells expressing the A3 receptor. We found that the compounds obtained have antiproliferative activity and that new structural modifications can enhance their biological activity. The ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism and Excretion) properties of the most active compounds were also evaluated theoretically.
Turbulence Generation by Shock-Acoustic-Wave Interaction in Core-Collapse Supernovae
Authors: Abdikamalov Ernazar , Huete César , Nussupbekov Ayan , Berdibek Shapagat
Published: May 2018

Convective instabilities in the advanced stages of nuclear shell burning can play an important role in neutrino-driven supernova explosions. In our previous work, we studied the interaction of vorticity and entropy waves with the supernova shock using a linear perturbations theory. In this paper, we extend our work by studying the effect of acoustic waves. As the acoustic waves cross the shock, the perturbed shock induces a field of entropy and vorticity waves in the post-shock flow. We find that, even when the upstream flow is assumed to be dominated by sonic perturbations, the shock-generated vorticity waves contain most of the turbulent kinetic energy in the post-shock region, while the entropy waves produced behind the shock are responsible for most of the density perturbations. The entropy perturbations are expected to become buoyant as a response to the gravity force and then generate additional turbulence in the post-shock region. This leads to a modest reduction of the critical neutrino luminosity necessary for producing an explosion, which we estimate to be less than ~5%.
2017 FDA Peptide Harvest
Authors: Al Musaimi Othman , Al Shaer Danah , De la Torre Beatriz G. , Albericio Fernando
Published: May 2018

2017 was an excellent year in terms of new drugs (chemical entities and biologics) approved by the FDA, with a total of 46. In turn, one of the highlights was the number of peptides (six) included in this list. Here, the six peptides are analyzed in terms of chemical structure, synthetic strategy used for their production, source, therapeutic use, and mode of action.
Managing Cd Containing Waste—Caught by the Past, the Circular Economy Needs New Answers
Authors: Friege Henning , Zeschmar-Lahl Barbara , Borgmann Andreas
Published: May 2018

What is understood by the circular economy concept is the re-use and recycling of used materials and waste. In many used products, hazardous compounds are found or might be present either because of the products’ present intended use or former applications that have been banned in the meantime. Clearly, recycling activities should not endanger man and environment through carryover of contaminants. To learn more about how hazardous chemicals in waste impede the circular economy, it is necessary to investigate the ways in which products containing hazardous compounds have been handled up to now in order to avoid secondary contamination. For this study, cadmium (Cd) in NiCd batteries and accumulators and Cd compounds used as stabilisers for PVC profiles were selected as examples. The situation in the European Union was analysed, with a focus on legislation, collection, recycling, disposal and the further fate of “co-recycled” Cd. Insufficient collection rates, partially unsafe disposal and carryover were identified as the main problems. An advanced management strategy for Cd and its compounds is needed in order to mitigate problems in the circular economy. Used products containing hazardous substances ought to be recycled without contaminating the environment or recycled materials. The results suggest that circular economy is faced with different, partially insurmountable challenges.
Ischemic Bowel Disease Due to Superior Mesenteric Artery Occlusion: A Case Report
Authors: Wu Meng-Yu , Lee Ling-Chi , Chen Yu-Long , Chien Yung-Chang , Ni Bo-Yang , Hou Yueh-Tseng , Yiang Giou-Teng
Published: May 2018

Acute mesenteric infarction is a rare but emergency disease with a high mortality rate. The rapidly restoration of intestinal blood flow is the early goal of vascular intervention. However, the unspecific presentation may confuse physicians and delay a timely diagnosis. The rate of intestinal failure in survivors is still high. Here, we present the case of an 85-year-old male presenting with acute onset progressive periumbilical cramping pain with elevated D-dimer. The abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed severe acute superior mesenteric artery occlusion. The surgical report showed a massively ischemic small intestine that was about 250 cm with 200 mL bloody ascites. We highlight that early diagnosis and timely intervention are important for improving outcomes.
Auto-Extraction of Linear Archaeological Traces of Tuntian Irrigation Canals in Miran Site (China) from Gaofen-1 Satellite Imagery
Authors: Luo Lei , Wang Xinyuan , Lasaponara Rosa , Xiang Bo , Zhen Jing , Zhu Lanwei , Yang Ruixia , Liu Decheng , Liu Chuansheng
Published: May 2018

This paper describes the use of the Chinese Gaofen-1 (GF-1) satellite imagery to automatically extract tertiary Linear Archaeological Traces of Tuntian Irrigation Canals (LATTICs) located in the Miran site. The site is adjacent to the ancient Loulan Kingdom at the eastern margin of the Taklimakan Desert in western China. GF-1 data were processed following atmospheric and geometric correction, and spectral analyses were carried out for multispectral data. The low values produced by spectral separability index (SSI) indicate that it is difficult to distinguish buried tertiary LATTICs from similar backgrounds using spectral signatures. Thus, based on the textual characteristics of high-resolution GF-1 panchromatic data, this paper proposes an automatic approach that combines joint morphological bottom and hat transformation with a Canny edge operator. The operator was improved by adding stages of geometric filtering and gradient vector direction analysis. Finally, the detected edges of tertiary LATTICs were extracted using the GIS-based draw tool and converted into shapefiles for archaeological mapping within a GIS environment. The proposed automatic approach was verified with an average accuracy of 95.76% for 754 tertiary LATTICs in the entire Miran site and compared with previous manual interpretation results. The results indicate that GF-1 VHR PAN imagery can successfully uncover the ancient tuntian agricultural landscape. Moreover, the proposed method can be generalized and applied to extract linear archaeological traces such as soil and crop marks in other geographic locations.
Using a Virtual Lidar Approach to Assess the Accuracy of the Volumetric Reconstruction of a Wind Turbine Wake
Authors: Carbajo Fuertes Fernando , Porté-Agel Fernando
Published: May 2018

Scanning Doppler lidars are the best tools for acquiring 3D velocity fields of full scale wind turbine wakes, whether the objective is a better understanding of some features of the wake or the validation of wake models. Since these lidars are based on the Doppler effect, a single scanning lidar normally relies on certain assumptions when estimating some components of the wind velocity vector. Furthermore, in order to reconstruct volumetric information, one needs to aggregate data, perform statistics on it and, most likely, interpolate to a convenient coordinate system, all of which introduce uncertainty in the measurements. This study simulates the performance of a virtual lidar performing stacked step-and-stare plan position indicator (PPI) scans on large-eddy simulation (LES) data, reconstructs the wake in terms of the average and the standard deviation of the longitudinal velocity component, and quantifies the errors. The variables included in the study are as follows: the location of the lidar (ground-based and nacelle-mounted), different atmospheric conditions, and varying scan speeds, which in turn determine the angular resolution of the measurements. Testing different angular resolutions allows one to find an optimum that balances the different error sources and minimizes the total error. An optimum angular resolution of 3 ∘ has been found to provide the best results. The errors found when reconstructing the average velocity are low (less than 2% of the freestream velocity at hub height), which indicates the possibility of high quality field measurements with an optimal angular resolution. The errors made when calculating the standard deviation are similar in magnitude, although higher in relative terms than for the mean, thus leading to a poorer quality estimation of the standard deviation. This holds true for the different inflow cases studied and for both ground-based and nacelle-mounted lidars.
3D Architectured Graphene/Metal Oxide Hybrids for Gas Sensors: A Review
Authors: Xia Yi , Li Ran , Chen Ruosong , Wang Jing , Xiang Lan
Published: May 2018

Graphene/metal oxide-based materials have been demonstrated as promising candidates for gas sensing applications due to the enhanced sensing performance and synergetic effects of the two components. Plenty of metal oxides such as SnO2, ZnO, WO3, etc. have been hybridized with graphene to improve the gas sensing properties. However, graphene/metal oxide nanohybrid- based gas sensors still have several limitations in practical application such as the insufficient sensitivity and response rate, and long recovery time in some cases. To achieve higher sensing performances of graphene/metal oxides nanocomposites, many recent efforts have been devoted to the controllable synthesis of 3D graphene/metal oxides architectures owing to their large surface area and well-organized structure for the enhanced gas adsorption/diffusion on sensing films. This review summarizes recent advances in the synthesis, assembly, and applications of 3D architectured graphene/metal oxide hybrids for gas sensing.
An INS/WiFi Indoor Localization System Based on the Weighted Least Squares
Authors: Chen Jian , Ou Gang , Peng Ao , Zheng Lingxiang , Shi Jianghong
Published: May 2018

For smartphone indoor localization, an INS/WiFi hybrid localization system is proposed in this paper. Acceleration and angular velocity are used to estimate step lengths and headings. The problem with INS is that positioning errors grow with time. Using radio signal strength as a fingerprint is a widely used technology. The main problem with fingerprint matching is mismatching due to noise. Taking into account the different shortcomings and advantages, inertial sensors and WiFi from smartphones are integrated into indoor positioning. For a hybrid localization system, pre-processing techniques are used to enhance the WiFi signal quality. An inertial navigation system limits the range of WiFi matching. A Multi-dimensional Dynamic Time Warping (MDTW) is proposed to calculate the distance between the measured signals and the fingerprint in the database. A MDTW-based weighted least squares (WLS) is proposed for fusing multiple fingerprint localization results to improve positioning accuracy and robustness. Using four modes (calling, dangling, handheld and pocket), we carried out walking experiments in a corridor, a study room and a library stack room. Experimental results show that average localization accuracy for the hybrid system is about 2.03 m.
Geomagnetism-Aided Indoor Wi-Fi Radio-Map Construction via Smartphone Crowdsourcing
Authors: Li Wen , Wei Dongyan , Lai Qifeng , Li Xianghong , Yuan Hong
Published: May 2018

Wi-Fi radio-map construction is an important phase in indoor fingerprint localization systems. Traditional methods for Wi-Fi radio-map construction have the problems of being time-consuming and labor-intensive. In this paper, an indoor Wi-Fi radio-map construction method is proposed which utilizes crowdsourcing data contributed by smartphone users. We draw indoor pathway map and construct Wi-Fi radio-map without requiring manual site survey, exact floor layout and extra infrastructure support. The key novelty is that it recognizes road segments from crowdsourcing traces by a cluster based on magnetism sequence similarity and constructs an indoor pathway map with Wi-Fi signal strengths annotated on. Through experiments in real world indoor areas, the method is proved to have good performance on magnetism similarity calculation, road segment clustering and pathway map construction. The Wi-Fi radio maps constructed by crowdsourcing data are validated to provide competitive indoor localization accuracy.
Speech Enhancement of Mobile Devices Based on the Integration of a Dual Microphone Array and a Background Noise Elimination Algorithm
Authors: Chen Yung-Yue
Published: May 2018

Mobile devices are often used in our daily lives for the purposes of speech and communication. The speech quality of mobile devices is always degraded due to the environmental noises surrounding mobile device users. Regretfully, an effective background noise reduction solution cannot easily be developed for this speech enhancement problem. Due to these depicted reasons, a methodology is systematically proposed to eliminate the effects of background noises for the speech communication of mobile devices. This methodology integrates a dual microphone array with a background noise elimination algorithm. The proposed background noise elimination algorithm includes a whitening process, a speech modelling method and an H2 estimator. Due to the adoption of the dual microphone array, a low-cost design can be obtained for the speech enhancement of mobile devices. Practical tests have proven that this proposed method is immune to random background noises, and noiseless speech can be obtained after executing this denoise process.
Distinctive Roles of Two Aggregate Binding Agents in Allophanic Andisols: Young Carbon and Poorly-Crystalline Metal Phases with Old Carbon
Authors: Wagai Rota , Kajiura Masako , Uchida Masao , Asano Maki
Published: May 2018

Interaction of organic matter (OM) with soil mineral components plays a critical role in biophysical organization (aggregate structure) as well as in biogeochemical cycling of major elements. Of the mineral components, poorly-crystalline phases rich in iron (Fe) and aluminum (Al) are highly reactive and thus contribute to both OM stabilization and aggregation. However, the functional relationship among the reactive metal phases, C stability, and aggregation remains elusive. We hypothesized that relatively young C acts as a binding agent to form the aggregates of weak physical stability, whereas the reactive metal phases and older C bound to them contribute to stronger aggregation. Using four surface horizons of Andisols having a gradient of soil C concentration due to decadal OM management, we conducted sequential density fractionation to isolate six fractions (from <1.6 to >2.5 g cm−3) with mechanical shaking, followed by selective dissolution and radiocarbon analysis. After 28 years of no-till with litter compost addition, not only C and N but inorganic materials including the reactive metal phases (pyrophosphate-, oxalate-, and dithionite-extractable metals) showed clear shifts in their concentrations towards lower-density fractions (especially <2.0 g cm−3) on a ground-area basis. This result was explained by the binding of compost-derived OM with soil particles. Major portions of the reactive metal phases in bulk samples were distributed in mid-density fractions (2.0–2.5 g cm−3) largely as sonication-resistant aggregates. Theoretical density calculations, together with depletion in radiocarbon (Δ14C: −82 to −170‰) and lower C:N ratio, implied that the sorptive capacity of the reactive metal phases in these fractions were roughly saturated with pre-existing OM. However, the influx of the compost-derived, modern C into the mid-density fractions detected by the paired-plot comparison suggests decadal C sink in association with the reactive metal phase. Our results supported the concept of aggregate hierarchy and further provided the following new insights. At the high hierarchy level where shaking-resistant aggregates form, soil organo-mineral particles appeared to be under a dynamic equilibrium and the changes in OM input regime controlled (dis)aggregation behavior due to the binding effect of relatively young C. At a lower hierarchy level, the reactive metal phases were bound to N-rich, 14C-depleted OM and together functioned as persistent binding agent. Our study suggests that the recognition of binding agents and aggregate hierarchy level would help to untangle the complex organo-mineral interactions and to better understand soil C stability.
Emerging Livelihood Vulnerabilities in an Urbanizing and Climate Uncertain Environment for the Case of a Secondary City in Thailand
Authors: Beringer Astrud Lea , Kaewsuk Jutamas
Published: May 2018

Increasing flood risks in Thailand are leading to new challenges for flood management and subsequently for livelihoods, which are still significantly agricultural. Policy makers prefer building flood protection infrastructure over utilizing non-structural measures like urban planning regulations to mitigate risks. We argue that unplanned urbanization intensifies flood risks and livelihood vulnerability and may even create new poverty patterns in peri-urban areas. However, urbanization can also strengthen the adaptive capacity of people in flood risk areas by providing more secure employment opportunities. We assess the livelihood vulnerability of Pra Lab, a peri-urban area of Khon Kaen City in Northeast Thailand, using a qualitative and quantitative analysis. The study relies on a vulnerability index developed from a household survey and rainfall statistics, complemented by household in-depth interviews. We further identified factors of unplanned urbanization in Khon Kaen City and Pra Lab through interviews with relevant local government offices. Our findings show that Pra Lab’s household livelihoods are moderately vulnerable to flood due to high financial (i.e., income, debts) and physical vulnerability (i.e., housing, urban systems, infrastructure). Major factors of unplanned urbanization that contribute to flood risks are lack of land use regulations, inefficient monitoring of land and house elevations, reduced pervious surfaces, ineffective water governance and insufficient wastewater treatment.
Coupling of Problems, Political Attention, Policies and Institutional Conditions: Explaining the Performance of Environmental Targets in the National Five-Year Plans in China
Authors: Mu Rui
Published: May 2018

A conceptual framework combining the Multiple Streams Approach and the policy implementation theory was used to explain variations of environmental target performance in China. This paper suggests that strong political attention is not a necessary condition for high target performance, and favorable institutional context may play a decisive role in facilitating performance when political attention is missing. The study concludes that if there is a good fit of policy to problem, but an absence of political attention, high performance is likely to be achieved when the institutional context is hierarchical and centralized, or when goals are aligned in the context that is decentralized.
A VP26-mNeonGreen Capsid Fusion HSV-2 Mutant Reactivates from Viral Latency in the Guinea Pig Genital Model with Normal Kinetics
Authors: Pieknik Julianna R. , Bertke Andrea S. , Tang Shuang , Krause Philip R.
Published: May 2018

Fluorescent herpes simplex viruses (HSV) are invaluable tools for localizing virus in cells, permitting visualization of capsid trafficking and enhancing neuroanatomical research. Fluorescent viruses can also be used to study virus kinetics and reactivation in vivo. Such studies would be facilitated by fluorescent herpes simplex virus recombinants that exhibit wild-type kinetics of replication and reactivation and that are genetically stable. We engineered an HSV-2 strain expressing the fluorescent mNeonGreen protein as a fusion with the VP26 capsid protein. This virus has normal replication and in vivo recurrence phenotypes, providing an essential improved tool for further study of HSV-2 infection.
Prevalence of treatment-resistant hypertension after considering pseudo-resistance and morbidity: a cross-sectional study in Irish primary care
Authors: Hayes Peter , Casey Monica , Glynn Liam G , Molloy Gerard J , Durand Hannah , O’Brien Eoin , Dolan Eamon , Newell John , Murphy Andrew W
Published: May 2018

Background

To confirm treatment-resistant hypertension (TRH), ambulatory blood pressure measurement (ABPM) must exclude white-coat hypertension (WCH), three or more medications should be prescribed at the optimal doses tolerated, and non-adherence and lifestyle should be examined. Most previous studies have not adequately considered pseudo-resistance and merely provide an apparent TRH (aTRH) prevalence figure.

Aim

To conduct a cross-sectional study of the prevalence of aTRH in general practice, and then consider pseudo-resistance and morbidity.

Design and setting

With support, 16 practices ran an anatomical therapeutic chemical (ATC) drug search, identifying patients on any possible hypertensive medications, and then a search of individual patients’ electronic records took place.

Method

ABPM was used to rule out WCH. The World Health Organization-defined daily dosing guidelines determined adequate dosing. Adherence was defined as whether patients requested nine or more repeat monthly prescriptions within the past year.

Results

Sixteen practices participated (n = 50 172), and 646 patients had aTRH. Dosing was adequate in 19% of patients, 84% were adherent to medications, as defined by prescription refill, and 43% had ever had an ABPM. Using a BP cut-off of 140/90 mmHg, the prevalence of aTRH was 9% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 9.0 to 10.0). Consideration of pseudo-resistance further reduced prevalence rates to 3% (95% CI = 3.0 to 4.0).

Conclusion

Reviewing individual patient records results in a lower estimate of prevalence of TRH than has been previously reported. Further consideration for individual patients of pseudo-resistance additionally lowers these estimates, and may be all that is required for management in the vast majority of cases.
Electrostatically actuated encased cantilevers
Authors: Desbiolles Benoit X E , Furlan Gabriela , Schwartzberg Adam M , Ashby Paul D , Ziegler Dominik
Published: May 2018

Background: Encased cantilevers are novel force sensors that overcome major limitations of liquid scanning probe microscopy. By trapping air inside an encasement around the cantilever, they provide low damping and maintain high resonance frequencies for exquisitely low tip–sample interaction forces even when immersed in a viscous fluid. Quantitative measurements of stiffness, energy dissipation and tip–sample interactions using dynamic force sensors remain challenging due to spurious resonances of the system.

Results: We demonstrate for the first time electrostatic actuation with a built-in electrode. Solely actuating the cantilever results in a frequency response free of spurious peaks. We analyze static, harmonic, and sub-harmonic actuation modes. Sub-harmonic mode results in stable amplitudes unaffected by potential offsets or fluctuations of the electrical surface potential. We present a simple plate capacitor model to describe the electrostatic actuation. The predicted deflection and amplitudes match experimental results within a few percent. Consequently, target amplitudes can be set by the drive voltage without requiring calibration of optical lever sensitivity. Furthermore, the excitation bandwidth outperforms most other excitation methods.

Conclusion: Compatible with any instrument using optical beam deflection detection electrostatic actuation in encased cantilevers combines ultra-low force noise with clean and stable excitation well-suited for quantitative measurements in liquid, compatible with air, or vacuum environments.
Influence of habitat heterogeneity on anuran diversity in Restinga landscapes of the Parnaíba River delta, northeastern Brazil
Authors: Araújo Kássio C. , Guzzi Anderson , Avila Robson
Published: May 2018

Anurans have close associations with environmental conditions and therefore represent an interesting vertebrate group for examining how resource availability and environmental variables influence species diversity. Associations between habitat heterogeneity and anuran species diversity were tested in the Restinga landscapes of the Parnaíba River delta in northeastern Brazil. Twenty-one anuran species were sampled in the rainy season during monthly excursions (December 2015 to June 2016) into areas of Restinga on two islands in the Parnaíba River delta. The fourth highest anuran diversity was found in this type of environment in Brazil and is the third in northeastern Brazil. Microenvironments, characterized by a combination of vernal pools with different vegetational and physical structures, better explained anuran species composition in the Parnaíba River delta.
The Meniscal Comma Sign: Characterization and Treatment of a Displaced Fragment in the Meniscotibial Recess
Authors: Salem Hytham S. , Carter Aaron H. , Shi Weilong J. , Tjoumakaris Fotios P. , Cohen Steven B. , Zoga Adam C. , Freedman Kevin B.
Published: May 2018

Displaced parrot beak flap tears in the meniscotibial recess are complex tears of the meniscus that begin as central radial tears and progressively extend toward the periphery, creating a detached fragment. These tears have not been described in the literature, but the authors have described them as the “meniscal comma sign” based on their appearance on magnetic resonance imaging. Displaced fragments are clinically significant because of the pain and mechanical symptoms they can cause as a result of tenting of the deep medial collateral ligament. Failure to distinguish these tears from meniscal extrusion and superimposed osteoarthritis on magnetic resonance imaging can cause them to be misinterpreted or missed, leading to a delay in treatment. [
Orthopedics
. 2018; 41(3):e442–e444.]
Corneal Allogenic Intrastromal Ring Segments (CAIRS) Combined With Corneal Cross-linking for Keratoconus
Authors: Jacob Soosan , Patel Shaila R. , Agarwal Amar , Ramalingam Arvind , Saijimol A.I. , Raj John Michael
Published: May 2018

PURPOSE:

To describe a new technique for the treatment of keratoconus using corneal allogenic intrastromal ring segments (CAIRS).

METHODS:

CAIRS trephined from donor cornea using a double-bladed trephine were implanted into mid-depth femtosecond laser–dissected channels in the cornea of patients with keratoconus in the 6.5-mm optic zone, followed by accelerated corneal cross-linking (A-CXL)—either conventional or contact lens–assisted CXL (A-CACXL), depending on minimum corneal thickness.

RESULTS:

Twenty patients (24 eyes) with stage 1 to 4 keratoconus (Amsler–Krumeich grading) were included. Mean follow-up was 11.58 ± 3.6 months (range: 6 to 18 months). There was significant improvement in uncorrected (2.79 ± 2.65 lines; range: 0 to 8 lines) and corrected (1.29 ± 1.33 lines; range: 0 to 5 lines) distance visual acuity, spherical equivalent, simulated maximum keratometry, steepest keratometry, topographic astigmatism, anterior and posterior best fit spheres, and mean power in the 3- and 5-mm zones. No eye showed progression during the entire follow-up. All segments remained well positioned and no segment-induced complications were seen. No other major intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed.

CONCLUSIONS:

This pilot study indicates that CAIRS with CXL may be a simple, safe, and effective option for treating keratoconus. Further studies are recommended to determine long-term outcomes.

[
J Refract Surg.
2018;34(5):296–303.]
CIRCLE Enhancement After Myopic SMILE
Authors: Siedlecki Jakob , Luft Nikolaus , Mayer Wolfgang J. , Siedlecki Martin , Kook Daniel , Meyer Bertram , Bechmann Martin , Wiltfang Rainer , Priglinger Siegfried G. , Dirisamer Martin
Published: May 2018

PURPOSE:

To report the outcomes of enhancement after small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) using the VisuMax CIRCLE option (Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Jena, Germany), which converts the SMILE cap into a femtosecond LASIK flap for secondary excimer laser application.

METHODS:

Of 2,065 SMILE procedures, 22 eyes (1.1%) re-treated with CIRCLE with a follow-up of 3 months were included in the analysis. SMILE was performed in the usual manner. For re-treatment, the CIRCLE procedure was performed with pattern D flap creation on the VisuMax system and subsequent excimer laser ablation with a Zeiss MEL 90 laser (Carl Zeiss Meditec) with plano target in all cases.

RESULTS:

Spherical equivalent was −5.56 ± 2.22 diopters (D) before SMILE and −0.51 ± 1.08 D before CIRCLE. CIRCLE enhancement was performed after a mean of 10.0 ± 7.9 months, allowed for safe flap lifting in all eyes, and resulted in a final manifest refraction spherical equivalent of 0.18 ± 0.31 D at 3 months (
P
< .008). The number of eyes within 0.50 and 1.00 D from target refraction increased from 31.8% to 90.9% and from 77.3% to 100%, respectively. Mean uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) had already improved from 0.37 ± 0.16 to 0.08 ± 0.16 logMAR at 1 week (
P
< .0001), resulting in 0.03 ± 0.07 logMAR at 3 months (
P
< .0001). All eyes gained at least one line of UDVA. Corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) remained unchanged at all time points (before vs after CIRCLE,
P
= .40). Two eyes (9.1 %) lost one line of CDVA; no eye lost two or more lines. The safety and efficacy indices were 1.03 and 0.97 at 3 months.

CONCLUSIONS:

The CIRCLE procedure represents an effective re-treatment option after SMILE. Compared to surface ablation re-treatment after SMILE, CIRCLE seems to offer advantages in respect to speed of visual recovery, safety, and predictability, but at the price of flap creation.

[
J Refract Surg.
2018;34(5):304–309.]
Graffiti in Palestinian Refugee Camps: from palimpsest walls to public space
Authors: Lehec Clémence
Published: May 2018

Walls and graffiti in Palestine’s refugee camps tell a border story. As people in camps continue to consider themselves refugees from the 1948 Nakba, and as long as their freedom of movement is either denied or at the least controlled by Israel, the border is embodied by each inhabitant of the camp, who is transborderized (Iglesias-Prieto, 2012). The graffiti movement was born in the camps as part of the resistance during the first Intifada, both as a means of expression for the community, and as a way to build the community through public space. This paper aims to explore the relationship between the particular urban structure of a refugee camp (focusing on Dheisheh and Aïda in Bethlehem) and graffiti. Through an examination of visual elements on the walls of refugee camps today, I propose an understanding of the relationship to public space as one where politics is at play, outside of any institutional structures.