bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blended learning within an undergraduate exercise physiology laboratory
Authors: Elmer Steven J. , Carter Kathryn R. , Armga Austin J. , Carter Jason R.
Published: February 2016

In physiological education, blended course formats (integration of face-to-face and online instruction) can facilitate increased student learning, performance, and satisfaction in classroom settings. There is limited evidence on the effectiveness of using blending course formats in laboratory settings. We evaluated the impact of blended learning on student performance and perceptions in an undergraduate exercise physiology laboratory. Using a randomized, crossover design, four laboratory topics were delivered in either a blended or traditional format. For blended laboratories, content was offloaded to self-paced video demonstrations (∼15 min). Laboratory section 1 ( n = 16) completed blended laboratories for 1) neuromuscular power and 2) blood lactate, whereas section 2 ( n = 17) completed blended laboratories for 1) maximal O2 consumption and 2) muscle electromyography. Both sections completed the same assignments (scored in a blinded manner using a standardized rubric) and practicum exams (evaluated by two independent investigators). Pre- and postcourse surveys were used to assess student perceptions. Most students (∼79%) watched videos for both blended laboratories. Assignment scores did not differ between blended and traditional laboratories ( P = 0.62) or between sections ( P = 0.91). Practicum scores did not differ between sections (both P > 0.05). At the end of the course, students' perceived value of the blended format increased ( P < 0.01) and a greater percentage of students agreed that learning key foundational content through video demonstrations before class greatly enhanced their learning of course material compared with a preassigned reading (94% vs. 78%, P < 0.01). Blended exercise physiology laboratories provided an alternative method for delivering content that was favorably perceived by students and did not compromise student performance.
Computer modeling of gastric parietal cell: significance of canalicular space, gland lumen, and variable canalicular [K+]
Authors: Crothers James M. , Forte John G. , Machen Terry E.
Published: February 2016

A computer model, constructed for evaluation of integrated functioning of cellular components involved in acid secretion by the gastric parietal cell, has provided new interpretations of older experimental evidence, showing the functional significance of a canalicular space separated from a mucosal bath by a gland lumen and also shedding light on basolateral Cl−transport. The model shows 1) changes in levels of parietal cell secretion (with stimulation or H-K-ATPase inhibitors) result mainly from changes in electrochemical driving forces for apical K+and Cl−efflux, as canalicular [K+] ([K+]can) increases or decreases with changes in apical H+/K+exchange rate; 2) H-K-ATPase inhibition in frog gastric mucosa would increase [K+]cansimilarly with low or high mucosal [K+], depolarizing apical membrane voltage similarly, so electrogenic H+pumping is not indicated by inhibition causing similar increase in transepithelial potential difference ( Vt) with 4 and 80 mM mucosal K+; 3) decreased H+secretion during strongly mucosal-positive voltage clamping is consistent with an electroneutral H-K-ATPase being inhibited by greatly decreased [K+]can(Michaelis-Menten mechanism); 4) slow initial change (“long time-constant transient”) in current or Vtwith clamping of Vtor current involves slow change in [K+]can; 5) the Na+-K+-2Cl−symporter (NKCC) is likely to have a significant role in Cl−influx, despite evidence that it is not necessary for acid secretion; and 6) relative contributions of Cl−/HCO3−exchanger (AE2) and NKCC to Cl−influx would differ greatly between resting and stimulated states, possibly explaining reported differences in physiological characteristics of stimulated open-circuit Cl−secretion (≈H+) and resting short-circuit Cl−secretion (>>H+).
Pharmacological targeting of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species counteracts diaphragm weakness in chronic heart failure
Authors: Laitano Orlando , Ahn Bumsoo , Patel Nikhil , Coblentz Philip D. , Smuder Ashley J. , Yoo Jeung-Ki , Christou Demetra D. , Adhihetty Peter J. , Ferreira Leonardo F.
Published: February 2016

Diaphragm muscle weakness in chronic heart failure (CHF) is caused by elevated oxidants and exacerbates breathing abnormalities, exercise intolerance, and dyspnea. However, the specific source of oxidants that cause diaphragm weakness is unknown. We examined whether mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) cause diaphragm weakness in CHF by testing the hypothesis that CHF animals treated with a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant have normal diaphragm function. Rats underwent CHF or sham surgery. Eight weeks after surgeries, we administered a mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant (MitoTEMPO; 1 mg·kg−1·day−1) or sterile saline (Vehicle). Left ventricular dysfunction (echocardiography) pre- and posttreatment and morphological abnormalities were consistent with the presence of CHF. CHF elicited a threefold ( P < 0.05) increase in diaphragm mitochondrial H2O2emission, decreased diaphragm glutathione content by 23%, and also depressed twitch and maximal tetanic force by ∼20% in Vehicle-treated animals compared with Sham ( P < 0.05 for all comparisons). Diaphragm mitochondrial H2O2emission, glutathione content, and twitch and maximal tetanic force were normal in CHF animals receiving MitoTEMPO. Neither CHF nor MitoTEMPO altered the diaphragm protein levels of antioxidant enzymes: superoxide dismutases (CuZn-SOD or MnSOD), glutathione peroxidase, and catalase. In both Vehicle and MitoTEMPO groups, CHF elicited a ∼30% increase in cytochrome c oxidase activity, whereas there were no changes in citrate synthase activity. Our data suggest that elevated mitochondrial H2O2emission causes diaphragm weakness in CHF. Moreover, changes in protein levels of antioxidant enzymes or mitochondrial content do not seem to mediate the increase in mitochondria H2O2emission in CHF and protective effects of MitoTEMPO.
Optimal Siting and Sizing of Multiple DG Units for the Enhancement of Voltage Profile and Loss Minimization in Transmission Systems Using Nature Inspired Algorithms
Authors: Ramamoorthy Ambika , Ramachandran Rajeswari
Published: February 2016

Power grid becomes smarter nowadays along with technological development. The benefits of smart grid can be enhanced through the integration of renewable energy sources. In this paper, several studies have been made to reconfigure a conventional network into a smart grid. Amongst all the renewable sources, solar power takes the prominent position due to its availability in abundance. Proposed methodology presented in this paper is aimed at minimizing network power losses and at improving the voltage stability within the frame work of system operation and security constraints in a transmission system. Locations and capacities of DGs have a significant impact on the system losses in a transmission system. In this paper, combined nature inspired algorithms are presented for optimal location and sizing of DGs. This paper proposes a two-step optimization technique in order to integrate DG. In a first step, the best size of DG is determined through PSO metaheuristics and the results obtained through PSO is tested for reverse power flow by negative load approach to find possible bus locations. Then, optimal location is found by Loss Sensitivity Factor (LSF) and weak (WK) bus methods and the results are compared. In a second step, optimal sizing of DGs is determined by PSO, GSA, and hybrid PSOGSA algorithms. Apart from optimal sizing and siting of DGs, different scenarios with number of DGs (3, 4, and 5) andPQcapacities of DGs (Palone,Qalone, and  PandQboth) are also analyzed and the results are analyzed in this paper. A detailed performance analysis is carried out on IEEE 30-bus system to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology.
An Improved Surface Simplification Method for Facial Expression Animation Based on Homogeneous Coordinate Transformation Matrix and Maximum Shape Operator
Authors: Tseng Juin-Ling
Published: February 2016

Facial animation is one of the most popular 3D animation topics researched in recent years. However, when using facial animation, a 3D facial animation model has to be stored. This 3D facial animation model requires many triangles to accurately describe and demonstrate facial expression animation because the face often presents a number of different expressions. Consequently, the costs associated with facial animation have increased rapidly. In an effort to reduce storage costs, researchers have sought to simplify 3D animation models using techniques such as Deformation Sensitive Decimation and Feature Edge Quadric. The studies conducted have examined the problems in the homogeneity of the local coordinate system between different expression models and in the retainment of simplified model characteristics. This paper proposes a method that applies Homogeneous Coordinate Transformation Matrix to solve the problem of homogeneity of the local coordinate system and Maximum Shape Operator to detect shape changes in facial animation so as to properly preserve the features of facial expressions. Further, root mean square error and perceived quality error are used to compare the errors generated by different simplification methods in experiments. Experimental results show that, compared with Deformation Sensitive Decimation and Feature Edge Quadric, our method can not only reduce the errors caused by simplification of facial animation, but also retain more facial features.
Sensorineural Tinnitus: Its Pathology and Probable Therapies
Authors: Møller Aage R.
Published: February 2016

Tinnitus is not a single disease but a group of different diseases with different pathologies and therefore different treatments. Regarding tinnitus as a single disease is hampering progress in understanding of the pathophysiology of tinnitus and perhaps, more importantly, it is a serious obstacle in development of effective treatments for tinnitus. Subjective tinnitus is a phantom sound that takes many different forms and has similarities with chronic neuropathic pain. The pathology may be in the cochlea, in the auditory nerve, or, most commonly, in the brain. Like chronic neuropathic pain tinnitus is not life threatening but influences many normal functions such as sleep and the ability to concentrate on work. Some forms of chronic tinnitus have two components, a (phantom) sound and a component that may best be described as suffering or distress. The pathology of these two components may be different and the treatment that is most effective may be different for these two components. The most common form of treatment of tinnitus is pharmacological agents and behavioral treatment combined with sound therapy. Less common treatments are hypnosis and acupuncture. Various forms of neuromodulation are becoming in use in an attempt to reverse maladaptive plastic changes in the brain.
Orofacial Pain during Mastication in People with Dementia: Reliability Testing of the Orofacial Pain Scale for Non-Verbal Individuals
Authors: de Vries Merlijn W. , Visscher Corine , Delwel Suzanne , van der Steen Jenny T. , Pieper Marjoleine J. C. , Scherder Erik J. A. , Achterberg Wilco P. , Lobbezoo Frank
Published: February 2016

Objectives. The aim of this study was to establish the reliability of the “chewing” subscale of the OPS-NVI, a novel tool designed to estimate presence and severity of orofacial pain in nonverbal patients.Methods. The OPS-NVI consists of 16 items for observed behavior, classified into four categories and a subjective estimate of pain. Two observers used the OPS-NVI for 237 video clips of people with dementia in Dutch nursing homes during their meal to observe their behavior and to estimate the intensity of orofacial pain. Six weeks later, the same observers rated the video clips a second time.Results. Bottom and ceiling effects for some items were found. This resulted in exclusion of these items from the statistical analyses. The categories which included the remaining items (n=6) showed reliability varying between fair-to-good and excellent (interobserver reliability, ICC: 0.40–0.47; intraobserver reliability, ICC: 0.40–0.92).Conclusions. The “chewing” subscale of the OPS-NVI showed a fair-to-good to excellent interobserver and intraobserver reliability in this dementia population. This study contributes to the validation process of the OPS-NVI as a whole and stresses the need for further assessment of the reliability of the OPS-NVI with subjects that might already show signs of orofacial pain.
Intelligent Soft Computing on Forex: Exchange Rates Forecasting with Hybrid Radial Basis Neural Network
Authors: Falat Lukas , Marcek Dusan , Durisova Maria
Published: February 2016

This paper deals with application of quantitative soft computing prediction models into financial area as reliable and accurate prediction models can be very helpful in management decision-making process. The authors suggest a new hybrid neural network which is a combination of the standard RBF neural network, a genetic algorithm, and a moving average. The moving average is supposed to enhance the outputs of the network using the error part of the original neural network. Authors test the suggested model on high-frequency time series data of USD/CAD and examine the ability to forecast exchange rate values for the horizon of one day. To determine the forecasting efficiency, they perform a comparative statistical out-of-sample analysis of the tested model with autoregressive models and the standard neural network. They also incorporate genetic algorithm as an optimizing technique for adapting parameters of ANN which is then compared with standard backpropagation and backpropagation combined withK-means clustering algorithm. Finally, the authors find out that their suggested hybrid neural network is able to produce more accurate forecasts than the standard models and can be helpful in eliminating the risk of making the bad decision in decision-making process.
Texture Classification Using Scattering Statistical and Cooccurrence Features
Authors: Wang Juan , Zhang Jiangshe , Zhao Jie
Published: February 2016

Texture classification is an important research topic in image processing. In 2012, scattering transform computed by iterating over successive wavelet transforms and modulus operators was introduced. This paper presents new approaches for texture features extraction using scattering transform. Scattering statistical features and scattering cooccurrence features are derived from subbands of the scattering decomposition and original images. And these features are used for classification for the four datasets containing 20, 30, 112, and 129 texture images, respectively. Experimental results show that our approaches have the promising results in classification.
Performance Analysis of Savonius Rotor Based Hydropower Generation Scheme with Electronic Load Controller
Authors: Pudur Rajen , Gao Sarsing
Published: February 2016

This paper describes the performance of electronic load controller (ELC) of asynchronous generator (AG) coupled to an uncontrolled Savonius turbine and variable water velocity. An AC-DC-AC converter with a dc link capacitor is employed to maintain the required frequency. The ELC which is feeding a resistive dump load is connected in parallel with the generating system and the power consumption is varied through the duty cycle of the chopper. Gate triggering of ELC is accomplished through sinusoidal pulse width modulation (SPWM) by sensing the load current. A MATLAB/Simulink model of Savonius rotor, asynchronous generator, ELC, and three-phase load is presented. The proposed scheme is tested under various load conditions under varying water velocities and the performances are observed to be satisfactory.
Intravitreal Melphalan for Vitreous Seeds: Initial Experience in China
Authors: Ji Xunda , Hua Peiyan , Li Jing , Li Jiakai , Zhao Junyang , Zhao Peiquan
Published: February 2016

Purpose. To evaluate the efficacy of intravitreal melphalan for vitreous seeds from retinoblastoma in Chinese patients.Methods. This is a retrospective review of 17 consecutive Chinese patients (19 eyes) with viable vitreous seeds from retinoblastoma. The patients received multiple intravitreal injections of 20 ug melphalan.Results. The International Classification of Retinoblastoma groups were B in 1 eye, C in 5 eyes, D in 11 eyes, and E in 2 eyes. On average, 6 injections (range: 1–15) were given to each eye at the interval of 2–4 weeks. Successful control of vitreous seeds was achieved in 16 of 19 eyes (84.21%). Globe retention was achieved in 73.68% (14/19) eyes. The patients were followed up for 27 months on average (median: 26; range: 17–42 months). There is a significant difference in response to intravitreal melphalan for cloud, spheres, and dust seeds with a median number of injections of 9, 6, and 3, respectively (P=0.003). Complications related to intravitreal melphalan included vitreous hemorrhage, cataract, salt-and-pepper retinopathy, and pupil posterior synechia. There was no case of epibulbar extension or systemic metastasis within the period of follow-up.Conclusion. Intravitreal melphalan achieved a high local control rate for vitreous seeds without extraocular extension and with acceptable toxicity in Chinese retinoblastoma patients.
Manufacturing of Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stromal Cells on Microcarriers in a Dynamic System for Clinical Use
Authors: Petry Florian , Smith J. Robert , Leber Jasmin , Salzig Denise , Czermak Peter , Weiss Mark L.
Published: February 2016

The great properties of human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs) make these cells an important tool in regenerative medicine. Because of the limitations of hMSCs derived from the bone marrow during isolation and expansion, hMSCs derived from the umbilical cord stroma are a great alternative to overcome these issues. For a large expansion of these cells, we performed a process transfer from static culture to a dynamic system. For this reason, a microcarrier selection out of five microcarrier types was made to achieve a suitable growth surface for the cells. The growth characteristics and metabolite consumption and production were used to compare the cells growth in 12‐well plate and spinner flask. The goal to determine relevant process parameters to transfer the expansion process into a stirred tank bioreactor was achieved.
Qi‐Shen‐Yi‐Qi Dripping Pills Promote Angiogenesis of Ischemic Cardiac Microvascular Endothelial Cells by Regulating MicroRNA‐223‐3p Expression
Authors: Dai Guo-Hua , Liu Ning , Zhu Jing-Wei , Yao Jing , Yang Chun , Ma Pei-Ze , Song Xian-Bo
Published: February 2016

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) research shows that Qi‐Shen‐Yi‐Qi Dripping Pills (QSYQ) can promote ischemic cardiac angiogenesis. Studies have shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) are the key component of gene regulation networks, which play a vital role in angiogenesis and cardiovascular disease. Mechanisms involving miRNA by which TCM promotes ischemic cardiac angiogenesis have not been reported. We found that microRNA‐223‐3p (mir‐223‐3p) was the core miRNA of angiogenesis of rats ischemic cardiac microvascular endothelial cells (CMECs) and inhibited angiogenesis by affecting RPS6KB1/HIF‐1α signal pathway in previous study. Based on the results, we observed biological characteristics and optimal dosage for QSYQ intervening in rats ischemic CMECs angiogenesis and concluded that QSYQ low‐dose group had the strongest ability to promote angiogenesis of ischemic myocardium. Using miRNA chip and real‐time PCR techniques in this study, we identified mir‐223‐3p as the pivotal miRNA in QSYQ that regulated angiogenesis of ischemic CMECs. From real‐time PCR and western blot analysis, research showed that gene and protein expression of factors located RPS6KB1/HIF‐1α signaling pathway, including HIF‐1α, VEGF, MAPK, PI3K, and AKT, were significantly upregulated by QSYQ to regulate angiogenesis of ischemic CMECs. This study showed that QSYQ promote ischemic cardiac angiogenesis by downregulating mir‐223‐3p expression in rats ischemic CMECs.
Numerical Methods for Pricing American Options with Time-Fractional PDE Models
Authors: Zhou Zhiqiang , Gao Xuemei
Published: February 2016

In this paper we develop a Laplace transform method and a finite difference method for solving American option pricing problem when the change of the option price with time is considered as a fractal transmission system. In this scenario, the option price is governed by a time-fractional partial differential equation (PDE) with free boundary. The Laplace transform method is applied to the time-fractional PDE. It then leads to a nonlinear equation for the free boundary (i.e., optimal early exercise boundary) function in Laplace space. After numerically finding the solution of the nonlinear equation, the Laplace inversion is used to transform the approximate early exercise boundary into the time space. Finally the approximate price of the American option is obtained. A boundary-searching finite difference method is also proposed to solve the free-boundary time-fractional PDEs for pricing the American options. Numerical examples are carried out to compare the Laplace approach with the finite difference method and it is confirmed that the former approach is much faster than the latter one.
Torsional Oscillations in Automotive Transmissions: Experimental Analysis and Modelling
Authors: Galvagno Enrico , Velardocchia Mauro , Vigliani Alessandro
Published: February 2016

The paper investigates the torsional oscillations of an automotive transmission system by means of an experimental test bench used to validate the proposed lumped parameter model. The rig consists of a Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) and a Manual Transmission (MT) connected through the respective output shafts, while the excitation is provided by two electric motors, which are controlled in speed or torque. The experimental analysis includes the measurement of the external torques, applied by the two electric motors to the mechanical system, and the measurement of the system response in terms of angular speeds at different positions along the transmission line. The frequency response of the system is estimated from the experimental data and compared with the results of a 5-degree-of-freedom lumped parameter model, which proves to be adequate to describe the dynamic behaviour of the system up to a frequency of 200 Hz. The comparison between simulated results and experimental data shows good agreement, so the model can be used to predict the torsional vibrations of the transmission system in the linear field. Moreover, the effects of the nonlinearities associated with the mean value of the excitations are shown. Finally the influence of the selected gear ratio on the experimental frequency response is discussed.
The Comparison of Adipose Stem Cell and Placental Stem Cell in Secretion Characteristics and in Facial Antiaging
Authors: Xu Yan , Guo Shilei , Wei Cui , Li Honglan , Chen Lei , Yin Chang , Zhang Chuansen
Published: February 2016

Background. Mesenchymal stem cells are the most commonly used seed cells in biomedical research and tissue engineering. Their secretory proteins have also been proven to play an important role in tissue healing. Methods. We isolated adipose stem cells and placental stem cells and performed analysis examining characteristics. The secretory proteins were extracted from conditioned medium and analyzed by MALDI‐TOF/TOF. The antiaging effect of conditioned mediums was evaluated by the results of facial skin application. Results. Adipose stem cells and placental stem cells were found to be very similar in their surface markers and multipotency. The specific proteins secreted from adipose stem cells were more adept at cell adhesion, migration, wound healing, and tissue remodeling, while the proteins secreted by placental stem cells were more adept at angiogenesis, cell proliferation, differentiation, cell survival, immunomodulation, and collagen degradation. While these two types of conditioned medium could improve the facial index, the improvement of Melanin index after injection of the adipose stem cell conditioned medium was much more significant. Conclusion. The results suggest that the secreted proteins are ideal cell‐free substances for regeneration medicine, especially in the antiaging field.
Long-Term Quality of Life and Pregnancy Outcomes of Differentiated Thyroid Cancer Survivors Treated by Total Thyroidectomy and I131during Adolescence and Young Adulthood
Authors: Metallo Melanie , Groza Lelia , Brunaud Laurent , Klein Marc , Weryha Georges , Feigerlova Eva
Published: February 2016

Introduction. Differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) is rare and confers good prognosis. Long-term health related quality of life (HRQoL) and pregnancy outcomes are not well known in subjects treated during adolescence and young adulthood.Methods. Cross-sectional analysis of HRQoL and global self-esteem, using SF-36 and ISP-25 surveys, and of pregnancy outcomes in female survivors of DTC treated by total thyroidectomy and I131before age of 25 years.Results. Forty-five of 61 patients (74%) responded to the survey. Cumulative I131activity was ≤3.85 GBq in 18 subjects and >3.85 GBq in 27 subjects. Mean time from diagnosis was 7.6 ± 5.2 years for the group ≤ 3.85 GBq versus 16.9 ± 11.6 years for the group > 3.85 GBq (P<0.05). No significant alteration in long-term HRQoL and global self-esteem was observed. Thirty pregnancies after I131were noted in patients from the group > 3.85 GBq and 10 in patients from the group ≤ 3.85 GBq. Frequency of miscarriages was of 17% (group > 3.85 GBq) and 10% (group ≤ 3.85 GBq) with 9 and 24 live births, respectively. No congenital malformations or first year mortality was noted.Conclusion. Long-term HRQoL, global self-esteem, and pregnancy outcomes are not affected in young female survivors of DTC.
Simulation of Sediment Discharges during an Outfall Dredging Operation
Authors: Purnama Anton , Baawain Mahad S. , Shao Dongdong
Published: February 2016

CORMIX-GTS simulations are carried out to study suspended muddy sediment plumes following the discharge of the spoils taken from the seabed during a marine outfall pipeline dredging operation. Single port discharges are considered at three different locations at 400 m, 800 m, and 1200 m from the shoreline with water depths ranging from 3.5 m to 10.5 m. For discharges in the shallow near-shore region at 400 m offshore, most of the dredge materials are deposited at the seabed and the simulated suspended sediment plumes are found to be carrying a concentration of less than 1 kg/m3 of mainly fine silt and clay. For discharges in the deeper far-shore region at 1200 m offshore, the sediment plumes are more elongated and carrying a concentration of more than 3 kg/m3. Iterative simulations are also conducted to analyse the inherent uncertainty in the input data by varying the ambient velocity and the port’s horizontal angle of discharge.
Numerical Study of Mixed Convection of the Nanofluids in Two-Sided Lid-Driven Square Cavity with a Pair of Triangular Heating Cylinders
Authors: Boulahia Zoubair , Wakif Abderrahim , Sehaqui Rachid
Published: February 2016

A numerical study is carried out concerning mixed convection of the nanofluid in two-sided lid-driven square cavity with a pair of triangular heat sources. The upper and bottom moving walls are thermally insulated while the left and right walls are cooled at constant temperature. Two-dimensional Navier-Stokes and energy equations are solved using the finite volume discretization method with SIMPLE algorithm. The method used is validated against previous works. Two cases were considered depending on the direction of moving walls. Effects of various design parameters such as Richardson number(0.1≤Ri≤100), nanoparticle volume fraction(0≤φ≤0.05), and size(25 nm≤dp≤145 nm)and type(Cu,Al2O3,TiO2)of nanoparticles on the heat transfer rate are investigated. The results of this investigation illustrate that, by reducing the diameter of the nanoparticles andRi, the heat transfer rate increases. Moreover, it is found that by changing horizontal direction of the moving walls the heat transfer rate variation is negligible.
Empirical Likelihood Inference for First-Order Random Coefficient Integer-Valued Autoregressive Processes
Authors: Zhao Zhiwen , Yu Wei
Published: February 2016

We apply the empirical likelihood method to estimate the variance of random coefficient in the first-order random coefficient integer-valued autoregressive (RCINAR(1)) processes. The empirical likelihood ratio statistic is derived and some asymptotic theory for it is presented. Furthermore, a simulation study is presented to demonstrate the performance of the proposed method.
The History of Acromegaly
Authors: de Herder Wouter W.
Published: February 2016

Pierre Marie coined the term ‘acromegaly' in 1886 and linked it to a distinct clinical disease with a characteristic clinical picture. However, Pierre Marie was not the first physician to give a full record of the clinical picture of acromegaly; others had preceded him, like the Dutch physician Johannes Wier. After Marie, pituitary enlargement was noted in almost all patients with acromegaly. Subsequently it was discovered that pituitary hyperfunction caused by a pituitary tumour was indeed the cause of acromegaly. The cause of acromegaly could be further determined after the discovery of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) and after demonstrating an association with GH hypersecretion and elevated circulating IGF-I. From the beginning of the 20th century, acromegaly could be treated by pituitary surgery and/or radiotherapy. After 1970, medical therapies were introduced that could control acromegaly. First, dopamine agonists were introduced, followed by somatostatin analogues and GH receptor blockers.
Articulatory and Acoustic Characteristics of German Fricative Clusters
Authors: Pouplier Marianne , Hoole Philip
Published: February 2016

Background: We investigate the articulatory-acoustic relationship in German fricative sequences. We pursue the possibility that /f/#sibilant and /s#ʃ/ sequences are in principle subject to articulatory overlap in a similar fashion, yet due to independent articulators being involved, there is a significant difference in the acoustic consequences. We also investigate the role of vowel context and stress. Methods: We recorded electropalatographic and acoustic data from 9 native speakers of German. Results: Results are compatible with the hypothesis that the temporal organization of fricative clusters is globally independent of cluster type with differences between clusters appearing mainly in degree. Articulatory overlap may be obscured acoustically by a labiodental constriction, similarly to what has been reported for stops. Conclusion: Our data suggest that similar principles of articulatory coordination underlie German fricative clusters independently of their segmental composition. The general auditory-acoustic patterning of the fricative sequences can be predicted by taking into account that aerodynamicacoustic consequences of gestural overlap may vary as a function of the articulators involved. We discuss possible sources for differences in degrees of overlap and place our results in the context of previously reported asymmetries among the fricatives in regressive place assimilation.
Survival in Frontotemporal Dementia Phenotypes: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kansal Kalyani , Mareddy Manisha , Sloane Kelly L. , Minc Alexa A. , Rabins Peter V. , McGready John B. , Onyike Chiadi U.
Published: February 2016

Background: Survival in frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is not well understood. We conducted a mixed effects meta-analysis of survival in FTD to examine phenotype differences and contributory factors. Methods: The PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Cochrane databases were searched for studies describing survival or natural history of behavioral variant FTD (bvFTD), progressive non-fluent aphasia (PNFA), semantic dementia (SD), FTD with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FTD-ALS), progressive supranuclear palsy and corticobasal degeneration. There were no language restrictions. Results: We included 27 studies (2,462 subjects). Aggregate mean and median survival were derived for each phenotype and, for comparison, Alzheimer's disease (AD) (using data from the selected studies). Survival was shortest in FTD-ALS (2.5 years). Mean survival was longest in bvFTD and PNFA (8 years) and median survival in SD (12 years). AD was comparable in survival to all except FTD-ALS. Age and sex did not affect survival; the education effect was equivocal. Heterogeneity in FTD survival was largely, but not wholly, explained by phenotypes. Conclusions: Survival differs for FTD phenotypes but, except for FTD-ALS, compares well to AD survival. Elucidating the potential causes of within-phenotype heterogeneity in survival (such as complicating features and comorbidities) may open up opportunities for tailored interventions.
Colchicine Treatment for Tracheobronchial Amyloidosis
Authors: Morales Arturo , Pari Marizell , López-Lisbona Rosa , Cubero Noelia , Dorca Jordi , Rosell Antoni
Published: February 2016

Tracheobronchial amyloidosis is an infrequent disease characterized by the deposition of proteinaceous material in the tracheobronchial tree. The disease generally has a high morbidity and variable mortality in the years following diagnosis. There is no consensus on the optimal treatment. We report a case of a 63-year-old woman who presented with a diffuse tracheobronchial amyloidosis associated with laryngeal involvement, which required a percutaneous tracheostomy due to high-grade subglottic stenosis, with no evidence of systemic amyloidosis. After treatment exclusively with colchicine, she had a complete resolution of the stenotic area, with a very good response from the tracheobronchial amyloidosis disease, with only minor yellow plaques persisting. The patient has remained asymptomatic in the next 4 years of follow-up, with no evidence of endoscopic progression. This is the first documented case of this kind of response of tracheobronchial amyloidosis to colchicine treatment alone. A review of the available literature is presented.
Unraveling the Link between Malnutrition and Adverse Clinical Outcomes: Association of Acute and Chronic Malnutrition Measures with Blood Biomarkers from Different Pathophysiological States
Authors: Felder Susan , Braun Nina , Stanga Zeno , Kulkarni Prasad , Faessler Lukas , Kutz Alexander , Steiner Deborah , Laukemann Svenja , Haubitz Sebastian , Huber Andreas , Mueller Beat , Schuetz Philipp
Published: February 2016

Background and Aims: Malnutrition is associated with poor clinical outcomes. Whether there is a causal relationship or it merely mirrors a severe patient condition remains unclear. We examined the association of malnutrition with biomarkers characteristic of different pathophysiological states to better understand the underlying etiological mechanisms. Methods: We prospectively followed consecutive adult medical inpatients. Multivariable regression models were used to investigate the associations between malnutrition - as assessed using the Nutritional Risk Screening (NRS 2002) - and biomarkers linked to inflammation, stress, renal dysfunction, nutritional status and hematologic function. Results: A total of 529 patients were included. In a fully adjusted model, malnutrition was significantly associated with the inflammatory markers procalcitonin (0.20, 95% CI 0.03-0.37), proadrenomedullin (0.28, 95% CI 0.12-0.43) and albumin (-0.39, 95% CI -0.57 to -0.21), the stress marker copeptin (0.34, 95% CI 0.17-0.51), the renal function marker urea (0.23, 95% CI 0.07-0.38), the nutritional markers vitamin D25 (-0.22, 95% CI -0.41 to -0.02) and corrected calcium (0.29, 95% CI 0.10-0.49) and the hematological markers hemoglobin (-0.27, 95% CI -0.43 to -0.10) and red blood cell distribution width (0.26, 95% CI 0.07-0.44). Subgroup analysis suggested that acute malnutrition rather than chronic malnutrition was associated with elevated biomarker levels. Conclusion: Acute malnutrition was associated with a pronounced inflammatory response and an alteration in biomarkers associated with different pathophysiological states. Interventional trials are needed to prove causality.
Effect of Mirtazapine Treatment on Serum Levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α in Patients of Major Depressive Disorder with Severe Depression
Authors: Gupta Rachna , Gupta Keshav , Tripathi A.K. , Bhatia M.S. , Gupta Lalit K.
Published: February 2016

Background: This study evaluated the clinical efficacy of mirtazapine and its effect on serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels in patients of major-depressive disorder (MDD) with severe depression. Methods: Patients (aged 18-60) with MDD diagnosed by DSM-IV criteria, and Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D) score ≥25 were included (n = 30). Mirtazapine was given in the doses of 30 mg/day. All patients were followed up for 12 weeks for the evaluation of clinical efficacy, safety along with serum BDNF and TNF-α levels. Results: HAM-D score at the start of treatment was 30.1 ± 1.92, which significantly (p < 0.05) reduced to 13.47 ± 1.77 at 12 weeks of treatment. In responders, mean serum BDNF levels at the start of treatment were 2.32 ± 0.3 ng/ml, which significantly (p < 0.05) increased to 2.79 ± 0.33 ng/ml at 12 weeks of treatment and mean serum TNF-α levels at the start were 5.18 ± 0.67 pg/ml, which significantly decreased to 4.36 ± 0.72 pg/ml (p < 0.05) at 12 weeks of treatment. Conclusion: Our results suggest that mirtazapine is effective and well tolerated in severely depressed patients and treatment response is associated with an increase in serum BDNF and a decrease in serum TNF-α levels.
Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A
2
and Incident Peripheral Arterial Disease in Older Adults
Authors: Garg Parveen K. , Arnold Alice M. , Hinckley Stukovsky Karen D. , Koro Carol , Jenny Nancy S. , Mukamal Kenneth J. , Criqui Michael H. , Furberg Curt D. , Newman Anne B. , Cushman Mary
Published: February 2016

Objective—

Although prior studies report a relationship between elevated lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A
2
(Lp-PLA
2
) and incident cardiovascular disease, the prospective association of Lp-PLA
2
with incident peripheral arterial disease (PAD) has not been studied. We investigated the association between Lp-PLA
2
mass and activity and the risk of developing clinical PAD and low ankle–brachial index (ABI).

Approach and Results—

Among Cardiovascular Health Study participants, a population-based cohort of 5888 adults aged ≥65 years enrolled in 1989 to 1990, Lp-PLA
2
mass and activity were measured in 4537 individuals without baseline PAD. Clinical PAD, defined as leg artery revascularization or diagnosed claudication, was ascertained through 2011. Incident low ABI, defined as ABI <0.9 and decline of ≥0.15, was assessed among 3537 individuals who had an ABI >0.9 at baseline and a second ABI measurement 3 or 6 years later. Analyses were adjusted for demographics, cholesterol, smoking, comorbidities, and C-reactive protein. Each standard deviation increment in Lp-PLA
2
mass (117 ng/mL) was associated with a higher risk of developing clinical PAD (hazard ratio 1.28; 95% confidence interval 1.13, 1.45) and incident low ABI (odds ratio 1.16; 95% confidence interval 1.00, 1.33). Results per standard deviation increment in Lp-PLA
2
activity (13 nmol/min per mL) were similar for clinical PAD (hazard ratio 1.24; 95% confidence interval 1.07, 1.44) and low ABI (odds ratio 1.28; 95% confidence interval 1.09, 1.50).

Conclusions—

Higher Lp-PLA
2
mass and activity were associated with development of both incident clinical PAD and low ABI. Future studies are needed to determine whether pharmacological inhibition of Lp-PLA
2
reduces the incidence of PAD.
Missed Ischemic Stroke Diagnosis in the Emergency Department by Emergency Medicine and Neurology Services
Authors: Arch Allison E. , Weisman David C. , Coca Steven , Nystrom Karin V. , Wira Charles R. , Schindler Joseph L.
Published: February 2016

Background and Purpose—

The failure to recognize an ischemic stroke in the emergency department is a missed opportunity for acute interventions and for prompt treatment with secondary prevention therapy. Our study examined the diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke in the emergency department of an academic teaching hospital and a large community hospital.

Methods—

A retrospective chart review was performed from February 2013 to February 2014.

Results—

A total of 465 patients with ischemic stroke were included in the analysis; 280 patients from the academic hospital and 185 patients from the community hospital. One hundred three strokes were initially misdiagnosed that is 22% of the included strokes at the combined centers. Fifty-five of these were missed at the academic hospital (20%) and 48 were at the community hospital (26%,
P
=0.11). Thirty-three percent of missed cases presented within a 3-hour time window for recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator eligibility. An additional 11% presented between 3 and 6 hours of symptom onset for endovascular consideration. Symptoms independently associated with greater odds of a missed stroke diagnosis were nausea/vomiting (odds ratio, 4.02; 95% confidence interval, 1.60–10.1), dizziness (odds ratio, 1.99; 95% confidence interval, 1.03–3.84), and a positive stroke history (odds ratio, 2.40; 95% confidence interval, 1.30–4.42). Thirty-seven percent of posterior strokes were initially misdiagnosed compared with 16% of anterior strokes (
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

Atypical symptoms associated with posterior circulation strokes lead to misdiagnoses. This was true at both an academic center and a large community hospital. Future studies need to focus on the evaluation of identification systems and tools in the emergency department to improve the accuracy of stroke diagnosis.
Walking the Thylacine
Authors: Philip Justine , Garden Don
Published: February 2016

This report examines the history and significance of indigenous companion animals within traditional Aboriginal society and in early Euro-Australian settlements. Working from historical photographic and anthropological records, the project constructs a visual and written record of these often-transient human-animal relationships, including cockatoos who spoke in Aboriginal language; companion brolgas; and the traditions of raising the young of cassowary, emu, and dingo. It explores different pathways towards shared human and nonhuman animal spaces and how they found common ground outside of a contemporary model of domestication.
Loss and Damage from the Impacts of Climate Change: A Framework for Implementation
Authors: Ohdedar Birsha
Published: February 2016

Loss and damage from the impacts of climate change affect many countries and communities across the world. In 2013, the Warsaw Mechanism on Loss and Damage, created through the United Nations Framework on Climate Change (unfccc), established an institutional process to respond to such impacts. This paper aims to contribute to the growing literature on climate liability by outlining a normative framework based on international law that can be used as a guiding path for the mechanism. It is argued that addressing loss and damage in line with these core principles and international law is required to develop a robust and legitimate mechanism. This framework is then used to answer critical questions regarding an international loss and damage mechanism for climate change.
A new species of Dalea (Fabaceae, Faboideae) from Jalisco, México
Authors: Castillón Eduardo Estrada , Quintanilla José Angel Villarreal
Published: February 2016

In this paper we describe and illustrate Dalea jaliscana as a new species from Jalisco, Mexico, morphologically related to Dalea sericea.
Meteorological Regimes of the Most Intense Convective Systems along the Southern Himalayan Front
Authors: Wu Xueke , Qie Xiushu , Yuan Tie , Li Jinliang
Published: February 2016

Based on 16 years of Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) data and NCEP Climate Forecast System Reanalysis data, the most intense convective systems (ICSs) along the southern Himalayan front (SHF) are studied using the multivariate techniques of principal component analysis in T mode and k-means cluster analysis. Three clusters, classified according to the near-surface fields of wind, specific humidity, convective available potential energy, and convective inhibition, correspond to the premonsoon (March–May), the establishment of the monsoon (late May–early June), and the Indian summer monsoon itself (June–September), respectively. The location of ICSs along the SHF is closely related to the establishment of the transport passage from the eastern SHF to the northwestern SHF along the Himalayas. During the premonsoon, the southwesterly wind is weak and moist air from the Bay of Bengal is transported to the eastern SHF, where ICSs are densely distributed. The oceanic southwesterly wind is enhanced and the transport passage extends to the central SHF during the monsoon establishment period, when ICSs distribute over the whole SHF homogeneously. The southwesterly wind is the strongest and the transport passage extends to the westernmost SHF after the monsoon is established, when ICSs mainly concentrate over the concave indentation region. Backward trajectory analysis confirms that, besides the local environment, the moisture transport from the Arabian Sea (17%) and the Bay of Bengal (9%) are two important long-range transport pathways for the summer monsoon ICSs at the western end of the SHF.
Estimating Uncertainties in High-Resolution Satellite Precipitation Products: Systematic or Random Error?
Authors: Maggioni Viviana , Sapiano Mathew R. P. , Adler Robert F.
Published: February 2016

This study proposes a method to quantify systematic and random components of the error associated with satellite precipitation products. Specifically, the Precipitation Uncertainties for Satellite Hydrology (PUSH) model is expanded to provide an estimate of those components of the root-mean-square error. The framework is tested on the TRMM Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA) 3B42, real time (3B42RT), and 3B42, version 7 (3B42V7), products over the contiguous United States, using the NOAA Climate Prediction Center (CPC) Unified gauge product as reference. Results show that 3B42V7 exhibits much smaller errors than the real-time product and that the major component of the error associated with both TMPA 3B42 products is random, as the systematic error is almost completely removed by the bias adjustment applied to the two products. A strong dependence of both systematic and random error components on satellite rain rates—with larger error components at larger rain rates—is observed for both satellite products, which suggests that future satellite bias adjustment procedures should account for this dependence. The resulting error estimates and their random and systematic components allow inferences about the accuracy of these datasets and will enhance their deployment in numerous applications, from hydrological modeling and hazard mitigation to climate change studies and water management policy.