bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Nudging the particle filter
Authors: Akyildiz Ömer Deniz , Míguez Joaquín 
Published: July 2019

AbstractWe investigate a new sampling scheme aimed at improving the performance of particle filters whenever (a) there is a significant mismatch between the assumed model dynamics and the actual system, or (b) the posterior probability tends to concentrate in relatively small regions of the state space. The proposed scheme pushes some particles toward specific regions where the likelihood is expected to be high, an operation known asnudgingin the geophysics literature. We reinterpret nudging in a form applicable to any particle filtering scheme, as it does not involve any changes in the rest of the algorithm. Since the particles are modified, but the importance weights do not account for this modification, the use of nudging leads to additional bias in the resulting estimators. However, we prove analytically that nudged particle filters can still attain asymptotic convergence with the same error rates as conventional particle methods. Simple analysis also yields an alternative interpretation of the nudging operation that explains its robustness to model errors. Finally, we show numerical results that illustrate the improvements that can be attained using the proposed scheme. In particular, we present nonlinear tracking examples with synthetic data and a model inference example using real-world financial data.
Anesthetic Considerations in Cardiac Patients Undergoing Neurosurgery
Authors: Bhatt Rashmi , Khanna Puneet 
Published: July 2019

AbstractElective and emergency neurosurgical procedures pose considerable risk in patients with cardiac disease. As the incidence of cardiac disease has increased in the general population over the past few decades, it is imperative to familiarize oneself with the challenges posed and the recommended management guidelines. The eventual outcome is significantly altered by the nature and severity of the underlying cardiac condition, as is the anesthetic management. A well-optimized cardiac condition can reduce morbidity and mortality considerably, which, however, may not be possible in neurosurgical emergencies. This review aims to look at various pathophysiological implications of cardiac disease, against the background of anesthetic management of neurosurgery. The discussion includes assessment and stratification of risk, appropriate investigations indicated, and the plan of anesthetic management. Even though no specific guidelines have been formulated, the discussion is largely to derive from the guidelines for patients with cardiac disease undergoing noncardiac surgery.
Extracranial Complications of Traumatic Brain Injury: Pathophysiology—A Review
Authors: Gundappa Parameswara 
Published: July 2019

AbstractModerate to severe traumatic brain injury is often associated with several extracranial organ complications, which increase the morbidity and mortality. Respiratory complications such as acute lung injury, pneumonia, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) occur most commonly, but neurogenic pulmonary edema can be life threatening. Cardiovascular complications occur frequently. However, arrhythmia, cardiogenic shock, and neurogenic stunned myocardium, though occur infrequently, can be life threatening. Coagulation abnormalities and sepsis constitute serious complications that may result in multiorgan failure. These constitute independent risk factors for mortality. Endocrine abnormalities, gastrointestinal disruptions, and other complications occur less commonly. These extracranial complications develop as a result of altered neurogenic immune response, both central and peripheral responses. Brain tissue injury releases both proinflammatory mediators taking part in tissue reparative process and anti-inflammatory cytokines that propagate inflammation. In addition, release of massive amount of catecholamines after head injury results in proliferation of myeloid depressor cells in the circulation, release of reactive oxygen species, and release of immature neutrophils into the circulation. These anti-inflammatory mediators by complex mechanisms inhibit and decrease the number of T cells and cause apoptosis. This results in decreased production and release of cytokines and reduced lymphocyte activated killer cell cytotoxicity, resulting in impaired hypersensitivity reaction. Finally, the complex interplay of various factors leads to suppression of peripheral immune response and susceptibility for infection and sepsis, and causes extracranial organ system failure with increased morbidity and mortality.
Neurogenic Stunned Myocardium in Two Children with Neurological Injury
Authors: Díaz Ruiz Laura , Durán Lorenzo Iria , Ordoñez Sáez Olga 
Published: July 2019

AbstractNeurogenic stunned myocardium is described as sudden and reversible cardiac dysfunction induced by an acute neurological event. This phenomenon has not been thoroughly investigated in infants, and is probably underdiagnosed. Here, we report the cases of two infants with neurogenic stunned myocardium in whom the clinical suspicion was relevant, with a brief discussion of this condition.
Does Size Matter: Evaluating the Difference between Right and Left Internal Mammary Veins in Free Flap Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Mauch Jaclyn T. , Rhemtulla Irfan A. , Katzel Evan B. , Hernandez J. Andres , Broach Robyn B. , Serletti Joseph M. 
Published: July 2019

Background Venous congestion in breast free flap reconstruction continues to be a major reason for flap compromise requiring reoperative exploration and possible flap failure. We aim to investigate whether size of the internal mammary vein (IMV) (1) varies between the left and right sides, (2) changes with certain patient demographics or preoperative factors, and (3) correlates with postoperative complications.
Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study examining all patients undergoing free flap breast reconstruction from September 2005 to March 2016 using internal mammary recipient veins. Venous coupler size was used as a surrogate measure of IMV diameter. Preoperative patient characteristics and factors were collected. Postoperative outcomes assessed included thrombosis, flap loss, fat necrosis, and mastectomy flap necrosis. Multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate if preoperative factors affected IMV diameter and to determine if coupler size and flap side were independent risk factors for postoperative complications.
Results We examined 372 patients with a total of 561 flaps. One hundred eighty-nine patients received bilateral flaps with the IMV as a recipient. The right IMV (n = 286, average = 2.97 mm, standard deviation [SD] = 0.41) was significantly larger than the left (n = 275, average = 2.89, SD = 0.35, p = 0.008). Preoperative factors and postoperative complications were not statistically different between the left and right cohorts. The multivariable linear regression model with coupler size as the dependent variable found older age trended toward a larger coupler size but this was not significant (p = 0.05). In multilinear regression analysis, the postoperative outcomes did not have significant covariates.
Conclusion We found that IMV size significantly differs between the right and the left sides. However, incidence of postoperative complications was not significantly different between the left and right sides, and the multivariate analyses did not identify flap side as an independent risk factor for adverse outcomes. Prospective studies evaluating actual IMV diameter and associated complications may potentially elucidate clinical significance.
Effect of Static Cold Storage on Skeletal Muscle after Vascularized Composite Tissue Allotransplantation
Authors: Gok Emre , Kubiak Carrie A. , Guy Erin , Kemp Stephen W.P. , Ozer Kagan 
Published: July 2019

Background Prolonged cold ischemia associated with static cold storage (SCS) results in higher incidence of acute and chronic allograft rejection in solid organ transplantations. Deleterious effects of SCS on vascularized composite tissue allograft were studied with limited data on muscle structure and function. The aim of this study is to evaluate the long-term impact of SCS on muscle metabolism, structure, and force generation using a syngeneic rat hindlimb transplantation model.
Methods Sixty-five male Lewis rats (250 ± 25 g) were distributed into five groups, including naive control, sciatic nerve denervation/repair, immediate transplantation, transplantation following static warm storage for 6 hours at room temperature, and transplantation following SCS for 6 hours at 4°C. Sciatic nerves were repaired in all transplantations. Muscle samples were taken for histology and metabolomics analysis following electromyography and muscle force measurements at 12 weeks after transplantation.
Results All cold-preserved limbs remained viable at 12 weeks, whereas animals receiving limbs preserved in room temperature had no survivors. The SCS transplantation group showed a 73% injury score, significantly higher than groups receiving immediate transplants without cold preservation (50%, p < 0.05). A significant decline in muscle contractile force was also demonstrated in comparison to the immediate transplantation group (p < 0.05). In the SCS group, muscle energy reserves remained relatively well preserved in surviving fibers.
Conclusion SCS extends allograft survival but fails to preserve muscle structure and force.
Congenital Rubella Syndrome: Clinical and Imaging Features
Authors: Ghanaat Mahyar , Soleiman Aron 
Published: July 2019

AbstractCongenital rubella syndrome is rare in high-income countries. A 19-year-old pregnant female, who recently immigrated to the United States, presented to clinic for prenatal care at 21 weeks of gestational age. Prenatal ultrasound demonstrated twin gestations with a cleft lip present in twin B. Ultrasound at 36 weeks of gestational age demonstrated fetal demise in twin A and growth restriction in twin B. Twin B was delivered via emergency C-section due to fetal distress. The viable neonate demonstrated multiple abnormalities including microcephaly, patent ductus arteriosus, atrial septal defect, cardiomegaly, pulmonary edema, congenital polar cataracts, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, thyroiditis, cleft palate/lip, and abnormal hearing.
Using the video head impulse test in healthy Danish adolescents
Authors: Lissner Victor Mathias Hornshøj , Devantier Louise , Ovesen Therese 
Published: July 2019

Purpose:
Adolescents presenting with vertigo can be a diagnostic challenge. Video head impulse testing (vHIT) offers examination of the semicircular canals in adolescents with few drawbacks. It quantifies the vestibular ocular reflex as a gain-value. However, there is no standardized method to calculate the gain-value. The aim of this article is to define which gain measure is the most optimal and whether the test is clinically tolerable and feasible in diagnostics of adolescents.

Methods:
Thrity-three Danish healthy adolescents aged 13–16 years, had their lateral semicircular canals examined with vHIT. Gain calculations were obtained at 40, 60, 80, 0–100 ms and as a regression gain.

Results:
Mean gain values for the right side were: 40 ms: 1.04, 60 ms: 0.98, 80 ms: 0.93, 0–100 ms: 1.08 and regression: 1.04. For the left-side gain values were 40 ms: 0.96, 60 ms: 0.96, 80 ms: 0.98, 0–100 ms: 1.00 and regression: 1.01. T-tests on 60 ms, 0–100 ms and regressions gain showed that 60 ms differed significantly from 0 to100 ms and regression gain. No complaints of discomfort were reported by any of the test subjects.

Conclusions:
vHIT proved to be a highly applicable procedure with many advantages, but also some potential pitfalls. In healthy adolescents, 0–100 ms and regression gain produce the most reliable results.
RETRACTED: Regulating phase change behavior and surface characteristics of Sn15Sb85 thin film by oxygen doping
Authors: Hu Yifeng , You Haipeng , Chou Qingqian , Lai Tianshu 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
In this paper, oxygen doped Sn15Sb85 thin films were proposed to reduce the power consumption for phase change memory (PCM) application. Compared with Sn15Sb85, oxygen doped Sn15Sb85 thin film had higher crystallization temperature (168 °C–255 °C) and broader energy band gap (1.23–1.55 eV). X-ray diffraction patterns and transmission electron microscope showed that the crystallization of thin film was suppressed and grains became smaller when oxygen was added. After oxygen doping, the surface roughness decreased from 13.6 to 2.5 nm. Antimony oxide formed to enhance the thermal stability. In comparison to Ge2Sb2Te5, oxygen doped Sn15Sb85 had an ultra-fast phase transition speed (3.9 ns) confirmed by laser picosecond technology. The result of differential scanning calorimetry revealed that oxygen doped Sn15Sb85 had a lower melting temperature (494 °C). PCM cells based on the oxygen doped Sn15Sb85 thin film were fabricated to evaluate the electrical characteristics as well. The results indicated that the oxygen doped Sn15Sb85 thin film had great potentiality in PCM application.
Correlation between non-invasive myocardial work indices and main parameters of systolic and diastolic function: results from the EACVI NORRE study
Authors: Manganaro Roberta , Marchetta Stella , Dulgheru Raluca , Sugimoto Tadafumi , Tsugu Toshimitsu , Ilardi Federica , Cicenia Marianna , Ancion Arnaud , Postolache Adriana , Martinez Christophe , Kacharava George , Athanassopoulos George D , Barone Daniele , Baroni Monica , Cardim Nuno , Hagendorff Andreas , Hristova Krasimira , Lopez Teresa , de la Morena Gonzalo , Popescu Bogdan A , Penicka Martin , Ozyigit Tolga , Rodrigo Carbonero Jose David , van de Veire Nico , Von Bardeleben Ralph Stephan , Vinereanu Dragos , Zamorano Jose Luis , Rosca Monica , Calin Andreea , Moonen Marie , Magne Julien , Cosyns Bernard , Galli Elena , Donal Erwan , Carerj Scipione , Zito Concetta , Santoro Ciro , Galderisi Maurizio , Badano Luigi P , Lang Roberto M , Lancellotti Patrizio 
Published: July 2019

Abstract

Aims
The present study sought to evaluate the correlation between indices of non-invasive myocardial work (MW) and left ventricle (LV) size, traditional and advanced parameters of LV systolic and diastolic function by 2D echocardiography (2DE).

Methods and results
A total of 226 (85 men, mean age: 45 ± 13 years) healthy subjects were enrolled at 22 collaborating institutions of the Normal Reference Ranges for Echocardiography (NORRE) study. Global work index (GWI), global constructive work (GCW), global work waste (GWW), and global work efficiency (GWE) were estimated from LV pressure-strain loops using custom software. Peak LV pressure was estimated non-invasively from brachial artery cuff pressure. LV size, parameters of systolic and diastolic function and ventricular-arterial coupling were measured by echocardiography. As advanced indices of myocardial performance, global longitudinal strain (GLS), global circumferential strain (GCS), and global radial strain (GRS) were obtained. On multivariable analysis, GWI was significantly correlated with GLS (standardized beta-coefficient = −0.23, P &lt; 0.001), ejection fraction (EF) (standardized beta-coefficient = 0.15, P = 0.02), systolic blood pressure (SBP) (standardized beta-coefficient = 0.56, P &lt; 0.001) and GRS (standardized beta-coefficient = 0.19, P = 0.004), while GCW was correlated with GLS (standardized beta-coefficient = −0.55, P &lt; 0.001), SBP (standardized beta-coefficient = 0.71, P &lt; 0.001), GRS (standardized beta-coefficient = 0.11, P = 0.02), and GCS (standardized beta-coefficient = −0.10, P = 0.01). GWE was directly correlated with EF and inversely correlated with Tei index (standardized beta-coefficient = 0.18, P = 0.009 and standardized beta-coefficient = −0.20, P = 0.004, respectively), the opposite occurred for GWW (standardized beta-coefficient =−−0.14, P = 0.03 and standardized beta-coefficient = 0.17, P = 0.01, respectively).

Conclusion
The non-invasive MW indices show a good correlation with traditional 2DE parameters of myocardial systolic function and myocardial strain.
Radiofrequency catheter ablation for inappropriate sinus tachycardia in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus: a case report
Authors: Yoshizawa Reisuke , Komatsu Takashi , Kojima Kaori , Owada Shingen 
Published: July 2019

Abstract

Background
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is known to cause inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST). However, there is limited evidence available with regard to the treatment of IST in this setting. In this article, we report a case of drug refractory IST in a patient with SLE treated with radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) using a non-contact mapping system.

Case summary
A 33-year-old woman had been diagnosed with SLE in 2001. She presented with complaints of persistent palpitations for 1 month and persistent sinus tachycardia. She underwent RFCA using a non-contact mapping system for drug refractory IST. The voltage and activation maps did not show obvious differences in the earliest activation site at heart rates (HRs) 90–150 b.p.m. In contrast, the areas of breakout sites were clearly distinguished between those from the normal P-wave zones at HR <140 b.p.m. and those from higher rate sites at HR >140 b.p.m. Radiofrequency catheter ablation was performed in those areas as the target for ablation. Thereafter, the symptoms steadily disappeared and the maximum HR—using 24-h Holter monitoring—decreased from 156 to 120 b.p.m.

Discussion
Radiofrequency catheter ablation using a non-contact mapping system was applied to the treatment of drug refractory IST in a patient with SLE. Of note, IST in such patients may be left untreated. This approach may be considered as a first-line therapy option for drug refractory IST in patients with SLE.
Bioprosthetic tricuspid valve stenosis: a case series
Authors: Hirata Kazuhito , Tengan Toshiho , Wake Minoru , Takahashi Takanori , Ishimine Toru , Yasumoto Hiroshi , Nakasu Akio , Mototake Hidemitsu 
Published: July 2019

Abstract

Background
Bioprosthetic tricuspid valve stenosis is a late sequela of tricuspid valve replacement (TVR); however, detailed information regarding its clinical picture is lacking.

Case summary
Thirty-one patients with bioprosthetic TVR (mean age: 60.5 ± 16.6 years, male/female: 11/20) were followed-up for 79.5 ± 49.1 months (14–188 months). Eleven patients developed bioprosthetic tricuspid valve stenosis (mean tricuspid gradient >5 mmHg) at a median interval of 96 months (interquartile range: 61–114 months). The mean tricuspid gradient at the time of tricuspid valve stenosis diagnosis was 10.9 ± 3.9 mmHg. Although the mid-term tricuspid valve stenosis-free survival was favourable (92.4% at 60 and 78.7% at 84 months), it had declined steeply to 31.5% by 120 months. Ten out of 11 tricuspid valve stenosis patients showed signs of right heart failure (RHF) as manifested by oedema and elevated jugular venous pressure, requiring moderate-to-high doses of diuretics. Diastolic rumble was audible in 10 patients. Five of the 11 tricuspid valve stenosis patients required redo TVR as a result of refractory RHF. Examination of the five excised bioprostheses showed pannus in four, fusion of the commissure in three, native valve attachment in two, and sclerosis in one. Detailed clinical pictures and pathology of the explanted valves in three cases that underwent surgery are presented in this case series.

Discussion
Bioprosthetic tricuspid valve stenosis is not uncommon after 8 years. Tricuspid valve replacement performed at the second surgery was associated with a higher incidence of bioprosthetic tricuspid valve stenosis.
Percutaneous extraction of a leadless Micra pacemaker after dislocation: a case report
Authors: Fichtner Stephanie , Estner Heidi L , Näbauer Michael , Hausleiter Jörg 
Published: July 2019

Abstract

Background
Leadless pacemaker implantation rates are increasing worldwide. Until now leadless pacemaker dislocation and extraction has been rarely reported.

Case summary
An 83-year-old patient with cardiac amyloidosis, chronic atrial fibrillation, and complete heart block was implanted with a leadless pacemaker (Micra, Medtronic). On the day after implantation, the device showed an exit block and on cardiac echocardiography and cardiac computer tomography, a device dislocation could be detected. During the day, the device moved at least three times between the tricuspid valve and the right ventricular apex. Each time causing non-sustained ventricular tachycardia. At the next day device extraction was scheduled. After 189 minutes of procedure time, it was possible to retrieve the device with the help of two steerable introducers (Agilis) and two snare catheters.

Discussion
Implantable transcatheter leadless pacemakers can be implanted safely most of the time. However, in rare cases device dislocations may occur. Device extraction is possible, but is described as challenging in most published cases
Case report of a sub-occluding thrombus in thoracic aorta: what is the origin?
Authors: Campana Federica , Nardin Matteo , Coppini Anna , Muiesan Maria Lorenza 
Published: July 2019

Abstract

Background
Aortic thrombosis represents a consequence of atherosclerotic disease. In few cases, it can be secondary to large vessel or infective vasculitis. More rarely, aortic thrombosis is the manifestation of a primary malignant neoplasm of the aortic wall. Aortic angiosarcoma is a rare tumour, its clinical presentation is often non-specific and associated signs and symptoms may vary greatly. An early diagnosis is difficult to reach and the presence of metastatic disease is not uncommon at the time of diagnosis. The prognosis is poor overall.

Case summary
We report the case of a female patient who presented to her GP because of fatigue, hyporexia, weight-loss, and anaemia. An ultrasound of the abdomen showed two small pancreatic lesions, confirmed and described as benign cystic pancreatic lesions on computed tomography (CT) imaging; an incidental thrombus in the superior mesenteric artery was also found on CT imaging. The thoracic CT identified a large thrombotic lesion in the descending thoracic aorta with significant narrowing of the aortic lumen and confirmed the presence of an osteolytic bone lesion on the VIII right rib, in the absence of atherosclerotic disease. Signs of increased metabolic activity in the aortic lumen and in the VIII posterior right rib were shown at a subsequent positron emission tomography. A CT-guided biopsy of the bone lesion was performed and at histology the diagnosis of metastatic angiosarcoma of the aortic wall was made.

Discussion
Aortic angiosarcoma is a rare cause of aortic thrombosis, to be taken into consideration in a patient with thrombotic lesions of the aorta in the absence of atherosclerotic disease. The differential diagnosis is difficult because of clinical presentation and radiological features similar to those of inflammatory aortic disease. In our case, the final diagnosis of angiosarcoma was made only by a biopsy of a bone metastatic lesion.