bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMPUTATIONAL INTELLIGENCE FOR SHOEPRINT RECOGNITION
Authors: ACEVEDO MOSQUEDA M. E. , ACEVEDO MOSQUEDA M. A. , CARREÑO AGUILERA R. , MARTINEZ ZUÑIGA F. , PACHECO BAUTISTA D. , PATIÑO ORTIZ M. , YU WEN
Published: May 2019

Shoeprint marks present valuable information for forensic investigators to resolve a crime. These marks can be helpful to find the brand of the shoe and can make the investigation easier. In this paper, we present an associative model-based algorithm to match noisy shoeprint patterns with a brand of shoe. The shoeprints are corrupted with additive, subtractive and mixed noises. A particular case of subtractive noise are partial shoeprints such as toe, heel, left-half and right-half prints. The Morphological Associative Memories (MAMs) were applied. Both memories, max and min, recognize noisy shoeprints corrupted with 98% additive and subtractive noise, respectively, with an effectiveness of 100%. The images corrupted with mixed noise were recognized when the additive or subtractive noise applied was greater than the mixed noise; in this case, the recalling was around 70%, otherwise, both memories failed to recognize the shoeprints.
MOLECULAR DYNAMICS STUDY ON LIQUID FILM EVAPORATION ON THE FRACTAL ROUGH SURFACES
Authors: WU SUCHEN , CHENG QIKUN , PENG QUAN , SHEN CHAOQUN
Published: May 2019

A molecular dynamics simulation is performed to study the liquid film evaporation on rough surfaces constructed by the Cantor set fractal. The liquid film evaporation on the rough surfaces with different roughness and fractal dimensions is presented and is compared with that on smooth surface. The results indicate that the response speed for evaporation on the rough surface is faster than that on the smooth surface and is accelerated with the increase of the roughness height and the fractal dimensions. Protrusions on the rough surface are conducive to heat transfer enhancement, and thus, the evaporation on a rough surface can reach equilibrium earlier than that on a smooth surface. With increasing roughness and fractal dimension, the evaporation rate and the thickness of the non-evaporating liquid layer increase.
BLOW-UP PHENOMENA PROFILE FOR HADAMARD FRACTIONAL DIFFERENTIAL SYSTEMS IN FINITE TIME
Authors: MA LI
Published: May 2019

The main purpose of this paper is to investigate the weak singularity of solutions for some nonlinear Hadamard fractional differential systems (HFDSs). By constructing proper Banach space and employing lower and upper solutions technique, we prove the existence of the blow-up solutions for a class of HFDSs. In addition, we establish a more general condition than the classical Lipschitz condition which is employed to guarantee the equivalence between the solutions to HFDS and the corresponding functional operator. Also several examples are presented to verify our theoretical results.
Facilitate sEMG-Based Human–Machine Interaction Through Channel Optimization
Authors: Wang Zheng , Fang Yinfeng , Li Gongfa , Liu Honghai
Published: May 2019

Electromyography (EMG) has been widely accepted to interact with prosthetic hands, but still limited to using few channels for the control of few degrees of freedom. The use of more channels can improve the controllability, but it also increases system’s complexity and reduces its wearability. It is yet clear if optimizely placing the EMG channel could provide a feasible solution to this challenge. This study customized a genetic algorithm to optimize the number of channels and its position on the forearm in inter-day hand gesture recognition scenario. Our experimental results demonstrate that optimally selected 14 channels out of 16 can reach a peak inter-day hand gesture recognition accuracy at 72.3%, and optimally selecting 9 and 11 channels would reduce the performance by 3% and 10%. The cross-validation results also demonstrate that the optimally selected EMG channels from five subjects also work on the rest of the subjects, improving the accuracies by 3.09% and 4.5% in 9- and 11-channel combination, respectively. In sum, this study demonstrates the feasibility of channel reduction through genetic algorithm, and preliminary proves the significance of EMG channel optimization for human–machine interaction.
Low-Velocity Impact Response of Discontinuous Kirigami Cruciform Sandwich Panel
Authors: Zhou Caihua , Xia Chaoxiang , Ming Shizhao , Bi Xiangjun , Li Tong
Published: May 2019

Cruciform structures have desirable energy absorption capacity. However, the engineering application is limited by the difficulties in the manufacturing process. In this paper, a kirigami approach is introduced to simplify the manufacturing process. Based on the kirigami strategy, a structure referred to as a discontinuous kirigami cruciform sandwich panel (DKC), is investigated to validate the mechanical performance in energy absorption. Experiments and numerical simulations were carried out to investigate the impact resistance of DKC under four levels of impact energy and the energy–absorption performance is evaluated by comparing to a typical energy–absorption device, pyramidal truss sandwich panel (PT). In order to reduce the initial impact force and the displacement of the bottom surface on the protected objective, the DKC is further optimized by introducing an additional cutout at the opposite end in each component plate. With the new design, the displacement of the bottom surface on the sandwich structure is reduced by 13.9%, together with a decrease of impact peak force and an increase of energy absorption.
Modeling Gel Swelling in Binary Solvents: A Thermodynamic Approach to Explaining Cosolvency and Cononsolvency Effects
Authors: Xiao Rui , Qian Jin , Qu Shaoxing
Published: May 2019

If gel swells in binary solvents, two unusual phenomena may appear. Two solvents with relatively low swelling ability may become a good solvent for the polymer with high swelling ability when mixed, which is known as a cosolvency effect. In contrast, a cononsolvency effect indicates polymer is less soluable in solvent mixtures than it is in each of the cosolvents. In this work, we develop a thermodynamic theory to describe the equilibrium swelling behaviors of gels in binary solvents based on the Flory–Huggins lattice model. The model can reproduce both cosolvency and cononsolvency effects, showing that these effects are caused by the preferential absorption of the solvent by polymer together with solvent–solvent interactions. The model is also applied to describe experimentally observed cosolvency and cononsolvency effects in the literature, which shows an acceptable agreement.
The Consequences of Contention: Understanding the Aftereffects of Political Conflict and Violence
Authors: Davenport Christian , Mokleiv Nygård Håvard , Fjelde Hanne , Armstrong David
Published: May 2019

What are the political and economic consequences of contention (i.e., genocide, civil war, state repression/human rights violation, terrorism, and protest)? Despite a significant amount of interest as well as quantitative research, the literature on this subject remains underdeveloped and imbalanced across topic areas. To date, investigations have been focused on particular forms of contention and specific consequences. While this research has led to some important insights, substantial limitations—as well as opportunities for future development—remain. In particular, there is a need for simultaneously investigating a wider range of consequences (beyond democracy and economic development), a wider range of contentious activity (beyond civil war, protest, and terrorism), a wider range of units of analysis (beyond the nation year), and a wider range of empirical approaches in order to handle particular difficulties confronting this type of inquiry (beyond ordinary least-squares regression). Only then will we have a better and more comprehensive understanding of what contention does and does not do politically and economically. This review takes stock of existing research and lays out an approach for looking at the problem using a more comprehensive perspective.
Center-Right Political Parties in Advanced Democracies
Authors: Gidron Noam , Ziblatt Daniel
Published: May 2019

This review proposes a comparative research agenda on center-right parties in advanced democracies, bringing together research in American and comparative politics. Political scientists have recently closely examined the decline of the center-left and the rise of the radical right but have paid less attention to the weakening of center-right parties. Yet cohesive center-right parties have facilitated political stability and compromises, while their disintegration has empowered radical challengers. After presenting an overview of right-wing politics in Western democracies and weighing different definitions of the electoral right, we discuss two factors that shape variations in center-right cohesion: organizational robustness of center-right partisan institutions and the (un)bundling of conservative mass attitudes on different policy dimensions. Last, we argue that a full account of the rise of the radical right cannot focus solely on the strategies of the center-left but must incorporate also the choices, opportunities, and constraints of center-right parties.
Calculation Algorithm of Tire‐Road Friction Coefficient Based on Limited‐Memory Adaptive Extended Kalman Filter
Authors: Huang Bin , Fu Xiang , Wu Sen , Huang Song
Published: May 2019

In this paper, a limited‐memory adaptive extended Kalman Filter (LM‐AEKF) to estimate tire‐road friction coefficient is proposed. By combining extended Kalman filter (EKF) with the limited‐memory filter, this algorithm can reduce the effects of old measurement data on filtering and improve the estimation accuracy. Self‐adaptive regulatory factors were introduced to weigh covariance matrix of evaluated error. Meanwhile, measured noise covariance matrix was adjusted dynamically by fuzzy inference to accurately track the breaking status of system. Therefore, problems, including large filter error and divergence caused by incorrect model, can be solved. Joint simulation was conducted for the proposed algorithm with Carsim and Matlab/Simulink. Under the different road conditions, real‐vehicle road tests were conducted in various working conditions for contrast with traditional EKF results. Simulation and real‐vehicle road tests show that this algorithm can enhance the filter stability, improve the estimation accuracy of algorithm, and increase algorithm robustness.
Numerical Simulation of Fire Smoke Spread in a Super High‐Rise Building for Different Fire Scenarios
Authors: Yi Xin , Lei Changkui , Deng Jun , Ma Li , Fan Jing , Liu Yuanyuan , Bai Lei , Shu Chi-Min
Published: May 2019

Research on fire spread in super high‐rise buildings is crucial for identifying feasible methods of fire prevention and personnel evacuation. In this study, a fire spread model was established based on the fire dynamics simulator (FDS), and fire spread results were analyzed for a fire scenario in a single room under different conditions, a fire scenario in different functional places under the same conditions, and the spread of fire outside of the room. The results revealed that the critical time required for a fire to become a safety hazard in a shop, a restaurant, or an office was approximately 200 s. The same type of fire reached the critical time required for a fire to become a safety hazard more quickly in an office than a restaurant or shop, regardless of whether the fire spread was caused by CO mass fraction or temperature. More attention should be paid to fire safety in office spaces in super high‐rise buildings. Furthermore, compared with CO mass fraction and temperature, visibility was a more influential factor in determining the critical time required for fire to become a hazard, and smoke affected the adjacent open area in approximately 60 s. In the event of a fire, the temperature of the staircase and its front chamber was always lower than the threshold temperature of 60°C for human body tolerance.
Phyllanthus muellerianus(Euphorbiaceae) Restores Ovarian Functions in Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in Rats
Authors: Ndeingang Eveline Christiane , Defo Deeh Patrick Brice , Watcho Pierre , Kamanyi Albert
Published: May 2019

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the common causes or female infertility.Phyllanthus muellerianus(Euphorbiaceae) is a plant used to treat various ailments including frequent menstruation and anovulation. We investigated the effects ofP. muellerianusextracts on estrus cyclicity, lipid profile, oxidative stress-related markers, sex hormones, and ovarian architecture in letrozole-induced PCOS in rats. After induction of PCOS using letrozole (1 mg/kg/day), normal (n=6), and PCOS (n=108; distributed into 18 groups of 6 animals/group) rats were treated orally for 7 or 14 days with distilled water (10 ml/kg/day), clomiphene citrate (2 mg/kg/day), metformin (500 mg/kg/day), and aqueous or methanolic extract ofP. muellerianus(30, 60, and 120 mg/kg). Estrus cyclicity, body, and sexual organ (ovaries and uterus) weights, biochemical and histological parameters were measured. There were letrozole-induced PCOS characterized by irregular estrus cyclicity, elevated (p<0.05-0.01) glycaemia, ovarian weight, triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, VLDL cholesterol, malondialdehyde, luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone concentrations, but there were low (p<0.05-0.001) HDL cholesterol, estradiol, progesterone, catalase, peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase levels, compared with control. PCOS rats had multiple cysts compared with control. These reproductive, biochemical, and structural alterations were alleviated byP. muellerianusextracts. For instance,P. muellerianusrestored the estrus cyclicity with a remarkable effect after 14 days of treatment. Moreover,P. muellerianussignificantly decreased (p<0.001) LH and testosterone (both extracts; 30, 60, and 120 mg/kg) levels, but increased (p<0.01) estradiol (aqueous extract; 60 mg/kg) concentration. Cystic follicles were also decreased after plant application.P. muellerianusalleviated reproductive, hormonal, and structural alterations in PCOS rats. This plant could be useful in the management/treatment of reproductive and metabolic disorders related to PCOS.
Characterization of Transport-Enhanced Phase Separation in Porous Media Using a Lattice-Boltzmann Method
Authors: Parmigiani Andrea , Di Palma Paolo Roberto , Leclaire Sébastien , Habib Faraz , Kong Xiang-Zhao
Published: May 2019

Phase separation of formation fluids in the subsurface introduces hydrodynamic perturbations which are critical for mass and energy transport of geofluids. Here, we present pore-scale lattice-Boltzmann simulations to investigate the hydrodynamical response of a porous system to the emergence of non-wetting droplets under background hydraulic gradients. A wide parameter space of capillary number and fluid saturation is explored to characterize the droplet evolution, the droplet size and shape distribution, and the capillary-clogging patterns. We find that clogging is favored by high capillary stress; nonetheless, clogging occurs at high non-wetting saturation (larger than 0.3), denoting the importance of convective transport on droplet growth and permeability. Moreover, droplets are more sheared at low capillary number; however, solid matrix plays a key role on droplet’s volume-to-surface ratio.
Priority-Based Pipelined-Forwarding MAC Protocol for EH-WSNs
Authors: Shim Kyuwook , Park Hyung-Kun
Published: May 2019

To reduce the end-to-end delay in EH-WSNs (energy-harvesting wireless sensor networks), medium access control protocols using pipelined-forwarding have been introduced and studied. In real-life applications, there are several situations where it is difficult to harvest more energy than the energy consumed. Therefore, it is crucial to design a MAC protocol that allows nodes to efficiently relay data without exhausting the power in pipelined-forwarding multihop transmission. In this paper, we propose a PP-MAC (priority-based pipelined-forwarding MAC) protocol that determines the priority of relay nodes based on the residual power and energy-harvesting rate. The proposed protocol determines the probability of a node becoming a relay node based on the priority of the node and attempts to access the channel in a distributed manner. Furthermore, the PP-MAC protocol controls the sleep interval based on the power conditions of the nodes. It also minimizes the power exhaustion problem by controlling the sleep interval based on the priority of the nodes. The performance of the proposed PP-MAC was evaluated via computer simulation, and the results indicated that PP-MAC could improve the network lifetime by mitigating the power imbalance of nodes.
A Modelling Approach for Assessing the Hydrogeological Equilibrium of the Karst, Coastal Aquifer of the Salento Peninsula (Southeastern Italy): Evaluating the Effects of a MAR Facility for Wastewater Reuse
Authors: De Filippis Giovanna , Margiotta Stefano , Branca Claudia , Negri Sergio Luigi
Published: May 2019

The Salento Peninsula is characterized by poor surface water resources, due to the karstic nature of its territory. On the other hand, important groundwater resources are located in the deep, karst, coastal aquifer, which is of strategic importance for the economic and social development of the area. The increasing water demand, however, if not properly managed may pose serious problems to the hydrogeological equilibrium of this aquifer, which is highly susceptible to natural and anthropogenic changes and to saltwater intrusion. Taking steps from the previous works, the present paper focuses on the characterization of the deep aquifer of the Adriatic portion of the Salento Peninsula from a quantitative point of view by means of modelling tools for the simulation of groundwater dynamics. Conclusions about the extent of the saltwater intrusion phenomenon are consequently inferred. As a result of the implementation of a density-dependent flow model, the lateral extent of such phenomenon and the vertical depth of the transition zone between freshwater and saltwater were inferred, highlighting also the role of major faults which characterize the hydraulic behaviour of the karst system under exam. The model was also applied to design a Managed Aquifer Recharge facility for management and protection of the hydrogeological equilibrium of the deep aquifer. Its positive effects on the advancement of the saline front were highlighted. Model results also allowed identifying areas where the lack of data prevents a proper comprehension of the hydrogeological processes investigated, thus representing a supporting tool for planning further monitoring campaigns.
Pharmacological Protection of Kidney Grafts from Cold Perfusion-Induced Injury
Authors: Krzywonos-Zawadzka Anna , Franczak Aleksandra , Moser Michael A. J. , Olejnik Agnieszka , Sawicki Grzegorz , Bil-Lula Iwona
Published: May 2019

One of the greatest challenges facing the field of organ transplantation is the shortage of donor organs for transplantation. Renal transplantation increases quality of life and survival of patients suffering from end-stage renal disease. Although kidney transplantation has evolved greatly over the past few decades, a not insignificant amount of injury occurs to the kidney during recovery, preservation, and implantation and leads to the loss of function and loss of years of dialysis-free living for many patients. The use of kidneys from expanded criteria donors (ECD) and donation after circulatory determination of death (DCDD) has been adopted partly in response to the shortage of donor kidneys; however these kidneys are even more susceptible to ischemic injury. It has been shown that matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in mechanisms of injury to the transplant kidney. There is also some evidence that inhibition of MMP activity and/or ROS production can protect the kidney from injury. We review possible pharmacological strategies for protection of kidney graft from injury during recovery, preservation, and implantation.
Exosomal Induction of Tumor Innervation
Authors: Vermeer Paola D.
Published: May 2019

The naïve view of tumors as isolated islands of rogue cells has given way to a deeper understanding of cancer as being closer to a foreign organ. This “organ” contains immunologic, vascular, and neural connections to its host that provide not only mechanisms for disease progression but also opportunities for therapeutic intervention. The presence of nerves within tumor tissues has long been appreciated. However, a mechanistic understanding of how tumors recruit nerves has been slower to emerge. Tumor release of neurotrophic factors and axonal guidance molecules likely directs axons toward the tumor bed. Newly emerging data support a contribution of tumor-released exosomes in the induction of axonogenesis toward the tumor. Exosomes, small membrane-bound vesicles that carry a complex cargo (DNA, RNA, miRNA, lipids, and proteins), protect their cargo from the low pH of the tumor microenvironment. They also represent an efficient means of local and distal communication between the tumor and potentially innervating nerves. Likely, a combination of neurotrophins, guidance molecules, and exosomes work in concert to promote tumor innervation. As such, defining the critical components driving tumor innervation will identify new targets for intervention. Moreover, with a deepening understanding, tumor innervation may emerge as a new hallmark of cancer.
Rapid Clearance Profile of Plasma Circulating Tumor HPV Type 16 DNA during Chemoradiotherapy Correlates with Disease Control in HPV-Associated Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Chera Bhishamjit S. , Kumar Sunil , Beaty Brian T. , Marron David , Jefferys Stuart , Green Rebecca , Goldman Emily C. , Amdur Robert , Sheets Nathan , Dagan Roi , Hayes D. Neil , Weiss Jared , Grilley-Olson Juneko E. , Zanation Adam , Hackman Trevor , Blumberg Jeffrey M. , Patel Samip , Weissler Mark , Tan Xianming M. , Parker Joel S. , Mendenhall William , Gupta Gaorav P.
Published: May 2019

Purpose:

To identify a profile of circulating tumor human papilloma virus (HPV) DNA (ctHPVDNA) clearance kinetics that is associated with disease control after chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for HPV-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).

Experimental Design:

A multi-institutional prospective biomarker trial was conducted in 103 patients with (i) p16-positive OPSCC, (ii) M0 disease, and (iii) receipt of definitive CRT. Blood specimens were collected at baseline, weekly during CRT, and at follow-up visits. Optimized multianalyte digital PCR assays were used to quantify ctHPVDNA (types 16/18/31/33/35) in plasma. A control cohort of 55 healthy volunteers and 60 patients with non–HPV-associated malignancy was also analyzed.

Results:

Baseline plasma ctHPVDNA had high specificity (97%) and high sensitivity (89%) for detecting newly diagnosed HPV-associated OPSCC. Pretreatment ctHPV16DNA copy number correlated with disease burden, tumor HPV copy number, and HPV integration status. We define a ctHPV16DNA favorable clearance profile as having high baseline copy number (>200 copies/mL) and >95% clearance of ctHPV16DNA by day 28 of CRT. Nineteen of 67 evaluable patients had a ctHPV16DNA favorable clearance profile, and none had persistent or recurrent regional disease after CRT. In contrast, patients with adverse clinical risk factors (T4 or >10 pack years) and an unfavorable ctHPV16DNA clearance profile had a 35% actuarial rate of persistent or recurrent regional disease after CRT (P = 0.0049).

Conclusions:

A rapid clearance profile of ctHPVDNA may predict likelihood of disease control in patients with HPV-associated OPSCC patients treated with definitive CRT and may be useful in selecting patients for deintensified therapy.
Clonal Selection with RAS Pathway Activation Mediates Secondary Clinical Resistance to Selective FLT3 Inhibition in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: McMahon Christine M. , Ferng Timothy , Canaani Jonathan , Wang Eunice S. , Morrissette Jennifer J.D. , Eastburn Dennis J. , Pellegrino Maurizio , Durruthy-Durruthy Robert , Watt Christopher D. , Asthana Saurabh , Lasater Elisabeth A. , DeFilippis RosaAnna , Peretz Cheryl A.C. , McGary Lisa H.F. , Deihimi Safoora , Logan Aaron C. , Luger Selina M. , Shah Neil P. , Carroll Martin , Smith Catherine C. , Perl Alexander E.
Published: May 2019

Gilteritinib is a potent and selective FLT3 kinase inhibitor with single-agent clinical efficacy in relapsed/refractory FLT3-mutated acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In this context, however, gilteritinib is not curative, and response duration is limited by the development of secondary resistance. To evaluate resistance mechanisms, we analyzed baseline and progression samples from patients treated on clinical trials of gilteritinib. Targeted next-generation sequencing at the time of AML progression on gilteritinib identified treatment-emergent mutations that activate RAS/MAPK pathway signaling, most commonly in NRAS or KRAS. Less frequently, secondary FLT3-F691L gatekeeper mutations or BCR–ABL1 fusions were identified at progression. Single-cell targeted DNA sequencing revealed diverse patterns of clonal selection and evolution in response to FLT3 inhibition, including the emergence of RAS mutations in FLT3-mutated subclones, the expansion of alternative wild-type FLT3 subclones, or both patterns simultaneously. These data illustrate dynamic and complex changes in clonal architecture underlying response and resistance to mutation-selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy in AML.

Significance:

Comprehensive serial genotyping of AML specimens from patients treated with the selective FLT3 inhibitor gilteritinib demonstrates that complex, heterogeneous patterns of clonal selection and evolution mediate clinical resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibition in FLT3-mutated AML. Our data support the development of combinatorial targeted therapeutic approaches for advanced AML.

See related commentary by Wei and Roberts, p. 998.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 983
Multimodal Imaging and Histopathological Evaluation of Berger’s Space
Authors: Mares Virginia , Nehemy Marcio B. , Salomão Diva R. , Goddard Shannon , Tesmer Jaime , Pulido Jose S.
Published: May 2019

Objective: To demonstrate the multimodal imaging and histopathology of Berger’s space. Methods: We conducted a retrospective in vivo analysis of 4 patients demonstrating Berger’s space with intraocular pathological conditions, documented by slit-lamp biomicroscopic photography and, in 2 patients, also by optical coherence tomography (OCT). Additionally, we carried out a retrospective histological study of 7 enucleated eyes with retinoblastoma demonstrating Berger’s space. A review of the literature was also performed. Results: Two eyes had slit-lamp photographs. One case showed Berger’s space surrounded by vitreous hemorrhage. In the other case, amyloid was trapped within Berger’s space. In another 2 eyes that were pseudophakic, Berger’s space was visible on anterior segment OCT. One had amyloid trapped in Berger’s space that could be seen with OCT. The histological review of the 7 enucleated eyes with advanced retinoblastoma demonstrated the presence of pyknotic cells in Berger’s space. Conclusions: Berger’s space is an actual space in pathological conditions and can be an important site of pathology. Additionally, to our knowledge, this is the first time that Berger’s space has been documented by anterior segment OCT in a clinical setting.
Strategies Utilized by Speech-Language Pathologists to Effectively Address the Communication Needs of Migrant School-Age Children
Authors: McNeilly Lemmietta G.
Published: May 2019

Background/Aims: The number of migrant children referred to speech-language pathologists (SLPs) is increasing in the United States. SLPs need to be competent in distinguishing between a language disorder and language differences associated with children who are learning English as a new language. Methods: SLPs need to acquire the knowledge, skills, and cultural attitudes to evaluate language of bilingual children to competently assess and intervene with linguistically diverse children and families. Often children separated from their biological parents at the border are placed in foster homes, and the foster parents often do not have essential information regarding the children’s developmental history to share with the SLP. The children described in this article include school-age children in the United States who are learning to speak English as a second language and are migrants. Results: This article presents the difficulties faced when working with children learning a new language, effective strategies used with this population, and some of the resources available in the United States for children and families. Conclusion: This article highlights some challenges SLPs experience, assessment protocols used in different states and local school districts, successful strategies that involve working with interpreters, and varied service delivery options.
Eyes in the Sky: Assessing the Feasibility of Low-Cost, Ready-to-Use Unmanned Aerial Vehicles to Monitor Primate Populations Directly
Authors: Semel Brandon P. , Karpanty Sarah M. , Vololonirina Faramalala Francette , Rakotonanahary Ando Nantenaina
Published: May 2019

Primates face many climate and land use change threats, making long-term population monitoring critical to prioritizing conservation efforts. Ground-based line transects are typically conducted to estimate and monitor primate populations. However, transects may be costly and logistically challenging. We sought to test whether low-cost (<5,000 USD), ready-to-use unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) could effectively monitor primate populations in north-eastern Madagascar. Critically Endangered [A3cd] golden-crowned sifakas (Propithecus tattersalli) are medium-sized, white lemurs whose creamy colour contrasts against defoliated tree canopies, making them an ideal study species for aerial counts. Quad-copter UAV flights over sifaka groups did not elicit antipredator responses. Photographs demonstrated the ability of UAVs to capture viable imagery of sifakas from approximately 20 m above ground level. Unfortunately, crashes resulting from an inability to programme automated flights over hilly forests cut this pilot study short, highlighting several challenges that remain to implementing UAVs in remote field studies. This study demonstrates that while UAVs offer considerable promise in the future of primate research and conservation, high start-up costs and remote field conditions provide challenging obstacles to first time users hoping to use this exciting new technology. Furthermore, we strongly recommend that thermal cameras be used for direct primate counts with UAVs.
An Atypical PML-RARA Rearrangement Resulting from Submicroscopic Insertion of the RARA Gene at the PML Locus with Novel Breakpoints within PML Exon 7b and RARA Exon 3
Authors: Cao Yang , Yao Li , Liu Yue , Gu Quan , Dong Weimin , Wang Zhilin , Wang Fei , Lin Rongrong , Xie Xiaobao , Cen Jiannong , Chen Suning , Gu Weiying
Published: May 2019

The diagnostic hallmark of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is the reciprocal translocation t(15;17), resulting in the characteristic PML-RARA fusion; however, patients occasionally have masked PML-RARArearrangements. We report an APL case with no evidence of t(15;17) or PML-RARA rearrangement by karyotype or commercial reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analyses. Fluorescence in situ hybridization detected a small RARA insertion signal within PML. mRNA sequencing identified a novel PML-RARA transcript generated from the juxtaposition of PMLIIa (exons 1–4, 6, and 7ab) and RARA exons (3–9), with novel breakpoints in PML exon 7b and RARA exon 3. The patient achieved molecular remission after the second consolidation chemotherapy and remains in complete remission 22 months after initial presentation. This is the first report of an APL case presenting with submicroscopic ins(15;17) and simultaneous novel breakpoints in both PML and RARA. This case highlights the importance of sequence analysis to confirm APL diagnosis and for subsequent monitoring of minimal residual disease.
Metformin Prevents Progression of Experimental Pulmonary Hypertension via Inhibition of Autophagy and Activation of Adenosine Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase
Authors: Liu Yun , Xu Yi , Zhu Jinquan , Li Honglei , Zhang Jie , Yang Guangsheng , Sun Zengxian
Published: May 2019

Previous studies have shown that metformin (MET) prevents experimental pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and that activation of autophagy is involved in the development of pulmonary vascular remodeling. However, the mechanism of how MET inhibits autophagy and reverses pulmonary vascular remodeling is still unclear. The objective of the present study was to investigate the role of autophagy in MET-induced hypoxia PAH protection and the underlying mechanisms. To examine the effects of MET on hypoxia, we treated rats with MET (100 mg/kg/day) after 3 weeks of hypoxia. Hemodynamic changes, weight of the right ventricle/left ventricle plus septum (RV/LV+S) ratio, and lung morphological features were examined after 3 weeks. In addition, alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), p62, and PCNA were assessed by immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry staining. BECN-1, LC3B, p62, and activation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) were analyzed by Western blotting. Cell proliferation was detected using the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and the 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine staining kit assay. Hypoxia induced increases in right ventricular systolic pressure and the RV/LV+S ratio, which were attenuated by MET treatment. MET also inhibited hypoxia-induced pulmonary vascular remodeling, collagen deposition, proliferation of pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells, elevation of BECN-1 and the LC3B-II/-I ratio, and downregulation of p62. Further studies found that this process was mediated by inhibition of autophagy and activation of the AMPK signaling pathway.
Effects of Age on Obstacle Avoidance while Walking and Deciphering Text versus Audio Phone Messages
Authors: Souza Silva Wagner , McFadyen Bradford , Fung Joyce , Lamontagne Anouk
Published: May 2019

Background: Widely popular among young, and more recently older adults, mobile phones are increasingly used while walking. Knowledge of the impact of phone message modality (e.g., text vs. audio) on the ability to avoid collisions with other pedestrians, however, remains limited. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the extent to which the circumvention of an approaching pedestrian is affected by text versus audio phone messages in healthy young and older adults. Method: Sixteen young (aged 24 ± 3 years) and 14 older adults (aged 68 ± 4.5 years) were tested while walking and viewing a virtual environment depicted as a subway station in a helmet-mounted display. As they walked, one of three virtual humans randomly approached from the center (0°), right (+40°), or left (+40°). Phone messages, when present, were delivered at obstacle displacement onset and presented either as text messages on a virtual phone or as audio messages delivered through earphones. Participants were instructed to avoid collisions with pedestrians and to fully report the message content at the end of trials. Results: Both groups showed decreased accuracy of message report (AMR), slower walking speed, and more collisions in response to text versus audio messages. Compared to young adults, older adults showed greater reduction in AMR, more collisions, and similar speed adaptation in the presence of text messages. In both age groups, no significant differences in walking speed emerged between the audio message and the no-message condition, but only older adults experienced collisions and reduced AMR with the audio messages. Obstacle clearance and the onset time of avoidance strategy were not affected by message condition. Conclusions: Results suggest that coping with text messages while walking leads to greater risk of collision and alters message deciphering accuracy, while audio messages stand out as a safer and more efficient alternative for on-the-go communication. In general, older adults experienced larger motor-cognitive interference than younger adults, resulting in reduced AMR and more collisions without further changes in gait adaptation. Consequently, older adults failed to prioritize their safety when attending to phone messages while walking.
Effect of Air Tamponade on Tilt of the Intraocular Lens after Phacovitrectomy
Authors: Leisser Christoph , Hirnschall Nino , Findl Oliver
Published: May 2019

Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine whether air tamponade has a significant effect on postoperative tilt of the intraocular lens (IOL) in combined phacoemulsification with implantation of an IOL and vitrectomy compared to balanced salt solution. Procedures: This randomized, controlled, monocentre study included patients scheduled for combined phacoemulsification with IOL implantation and pars plana vitrectomy. Patients were randomized for balanced salt solution or air tamponade. Postoperative tilt and decentration of the IOL were measured 2 months after surgery with a Purkinje meter. Results: Thirty-four patients were included into the analysis. Tilt of the IOL was on average 4.1 ± 1.9°, without significant differences between balanced salt solution and air tamponade (p = 0.462). Decentration of the IOL was on average 0.31 ± 0.14 mm, without significant differences between balanced salt solution and air tamponade (p = 0.42). Conclusions: Air tamponade does not induce significantly more tilt or decentration of the IOL in combined phacoemulsification and vitrectomy compared to balanced salt solution. Potentially, this may not hold true for cases with a capsulorhexis that does not overlap the IOL optic.
The Creation and Management of Innovations in Healthcare and ICT: The European and African Experience
Authors: Schee genannt Halfmann Sebastian , Evangelatos Nikolaos , Kweyu Emmanuel , DeVilliers Carina , Steinhausen Kirsten , van der Merwe Alta , Brand Angela
Published: May 2019

The purpose of the study was to gain new insights into innovation systems by comparing state-of-the-art of existing approaches of innovation creation and innovation management in healthcare and ICT. It is unique, in that it compares countries in Africa with countries in Europe in order to identify similarities and differences regarding the creation and management of innovations. The main similarity is that early dialogue between different stakeholders was underrepresented during the whole innovation process in all countries. Our results also indicated that the various stakeholders often work in silos. The main difference was that the countries face problems at different stages of the innovation process. Whereas European countries face more problems in the innovation creation process, African countries experience difficulty sustaining and managing innovation. To overcome barriers, we suggest the application of systematic early dialogue between all key stakeholders.
Characteristics and Clinical Outcomes of Patients With Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection
Authors: Clare Ryan , Duan Lewei , Phan Derek , Moore Naing , Jorgensen Michael , Ichiuji Anne , Shen Albert Y. , Lee Ming‐Sum
Published: May 2019

Background

The goal of this study is to report the characteristics and long‐term clinical outcomes of patients with spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) and to identify factors associated with recurrent
SCAD
.

Methods and Results

This is a retrospective cohort study that included patients who underwent coronary angiography for evaluation of acute myocardial infarction between 2006 and 2016. Among 26 598 patients hospitalized with a principal diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction, 208 (0.78%) were diagnosed with
SCAD
. Patients with
SCAD
were younger (49.0±11.6 versus 65.6±12.2 years) and more likely to be women (88.9% versus 31.6%). Atherosclerotic risk factors, such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, obesity, and diabetes mellitus, were less prevalent. Median follow‐up was 4.7 years. Mortality was lower in patients with SCAD (1‐year mortality: 2.4% versus 8.8%;
P
<0.001). After using propensity score matching to control for differences in age, sex, and comorbidities, the difference in mortality was no longer present, suggesting that lower mortality in patients with SCAD is attributed primarily to their baseline characteristics. Recurrent
SCAD
occurred in 22 patients (10.6%). Multivariate Cox regression modeling showed concomitant fibromuscular dysplasia (hazard ratio, 5.1; 95%
CI
, 1.6–15.8;
P
=0.005) and migraine headaches (hazard ratio, 3.4; 95%
CI
, 1.4–8.4;
P
=0.008) to be associated with increased risk of recurrent
SCAD
.

Conclusions

Among patients with acute myocardial infarction, patients with
SCAD
have a lower risk of mortality, which is attributed primarily to their younger age, female sex, and low prevalence of atherosclerotic risk factors. Risk of recurrent
SCAD
persists years after the initial presentation. Patients with fibromuscular dysplasia and migraine are at higher risk for recurrent
SCAD
.
Epigenome-Wide Association Study Indicates Hypomethylation of
MTRNR2L8
in Large-Artery Atherosclerosis Stroke
Authors: Shen Yupei , Peng Chen , Bai Qingke , Ding Ying , Yi Xin , Du Huihui , He Lin , Zhou Daizhan , Chen Xu
Published: May 2019

Background and Purpose—

Ischemic stroke, a complex and heterogeneous disease, is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Genetic factors and epigenetic modification contribute to the pathogenesis of this disease. However, the effects of epigenetic factors on this disease have not been systematically investigated. Our study was designed to identify methylation alterations in large-artery atherosclerotic stroke.

Methods—

We conducted an epigenome-wide association analysis of large-artery atherosclerotic stroke using an Infinium HumanMethylation450 array (cases:controls=12:12), and the differentially methylated loci were validated in 2 cohorts (cases:controls, 110:122 and 191:191, respectively) using a Sequenom EpiTYPER assay.

Results—

In the screening stage, 1012 differentially methylated CpG sites annotated in 672 genes were found to be significantly associated with large-artery atherosclerotic stroke (mean methylation difference >5%,
P
<0.01). Disease, Gene Ontology, and pathway analysis highlighted the enrichment of these differentially methylated genes in cardiovascular, metabolic, neurological and immune-related functional gene clusters (
P
<0.05). We identified a differentially methylated region in the promoter of a humanin gene (
MTRNR2L8
, mean methylation difference=−13.01%,
P
=8.86×10
–14
). We constructed a diagnostic prediction model that was based on the mean number of significantly changed CpG loci in
MTRNR2L8
and showed high diagnostic specificity and sensitivity (
P
<0.0001, area under the curve=0.774).

Conclusions—

Together, these findings demonstrate that DNA methylation plays an important role in large-artery atherosclerotic stroke and that methylation of
MTRNR2L8
is a potential therapeutic target and diagnostic biomarker for stroke.
Ethnic Differences in 90-Day Poststroke Medication Adherence
Authors: Lank Rebecca J. , Lisabeth Lynda D. , Levine Deborah A. , Zahuranec Darin B. , Kerber Kevin A. , Shafie-Khorassani Fatema , Case Erin , Zuniga Belinda G. , Cooper George M. , Brown Devin L. , Morgenstern Lewis B.
Published: May 2019

Background and Purpose—

We assessed ethnic differences in medication adherence 3 months poststroke in a population-based study as an initial step in investigating the increased stroke recurrence risk in Mexican Americans compared with non-Hispanic whites.

Methods—

Ischemic stroke cases from 2008 to 2015 from the Brain Attack Surveillance in Corpus Christi project in Texas were followed prospectively for 3 months poststroke to assess medication adherence. Medications in 5 drug classes were analyzed: statins, antiplatelets, anticoagulants, antihypertensives, and antidepressants. For each drug class, patients were considered adherent if they reported never missing a dose in a typical week. The χ
2
tests or Kruskal-Wallis nonparametric tests were used for ethnic comparisons of demographics, risk factors, and medication adherence. A multivariable logistic regression model was constructed for the association of ethnicity and medication nonadherence.

Results—

Mexican Americans (n=692) were younger (median 65 years versus 68 years,
P
<0.001), had more diabetes mellitus (
P
<0.001) and hypertension (
P
<0.001) and less atrial fibrillation (
P
=0.003), smoking (
P
=0.003), and education (
P
<0.001) than non-Hispanic whites (n=422). Sex, insurance status, high cholesterol, previous stroke/transient ischemic attack history, excessive alcohol use, tPA (tissue-type plasminogen activator) treatment, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, and comorbidity index did not significantly differ by ethnicity. There was no significant difference in medication adherence for any of the 5 drug classes between Mexican Americans and non-Hispanic whites.

Conclusions—

This study did not find ethnic differences in medication adherence, thus challenging this patient-level factor as an explanation for stroke recurrence disparities. Other reasons for the excessive stroke recurrence burden in Mexican Americans, including provider and health system factors, should be explored.
Non–Vitamin K Antagonist Oral Anticoagulants in Asian Patients With Supranormal Renal Function
Authors: Lee So-Ryoung , Choi Eue-Keun , Han Kyung-Do , Jung Jin-Hyung , Cha Myung-Jin , Oh Seil , Lip Gregory Y.H.
Published: May 2019

Background and Purpose—

In clinical trials, the reduced efficacy of non–vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) for stroke prevention was reported for patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation with a creatinine clearance (CrCl) >95 mL/min compared with that of warfarin. We examined the effectiveness, safety, and net clinical benefit of NOACs compared with warfarin in Asian patients with atrial fibrillation and supranormal renal function.

Methods—

Using data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service database from January 2014 to December 2016, we included patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation with CrCl >80 mL/min. Among these incident oral anticoagulant users with rivaroxaban (n=6297), dabigatran (n=4241), apixaban (n=3395), edoxaban (n=1187), and warfarin (n=9884) were analyzed. Propensity score weighting was used to balance covariates across study groups. Hazard ratios for ischemic stroke, intracranial hemorrhage, gastrointestinal bleeding, major bleeding, all-cause death, and the composite outcome defined as ischemic stroke+intracranial hemorrhage+gastrointestinal bleeding+all-cause death were analyzed using Cox regression analysis with warfarin as the reference.

Results—

Baseline characteristics were well balanced among all groups (mean age, 66±11 years; 63% were men; mean CHA
2
DS
2
-VASc score, 3.0±1.8). Forty-five percent of the patients had CrCl >95 mL/min. Pooled NOACs yielded lower risks of ischemic stroke (hazard ratio, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.43–0.60) and the composite outcome (hazard ratio, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.58–0.70) than warfarin in patients with CrCl >80 mL/min. These benefits were consistent in those with CrCl >95 mL/min. All 4 NOACs reduced the risks of ischemic stroke and the composite outcome in both patients with CrCl >80 mL/min and >95 mL/min.

Conclusions—

The NOACs showed better effectiveness and safety than warfarin in the patients with atrial fibrillation and supranormal renal function; this was consistently observed for all 4 NOACs and in patients with CrCl >95 mL/min.