Intercell Interference Coordination through Limited Feedback

We consider the applications of multicell transmission schemes to the downlink of future wireless communication networks. A multicell multiple-input multiple output-(MIMOs) based scheme with limited coordination among neighboring base stations (BSs) is proposed to effectively combat the intercell interference by taking advantage of the degreesoffreedom in the spatial domain. In this scheme, mobile users are required to feedback channel-related information to both serving base station and interfering base station. Furthermore, a chordal distance-based compression scheme is introduced to reduce the feedback overhead. The performance of the proposed scheme is investigated through theoretical analysis as well as system level simulations. Both results suggest that the so-called “intercell interference coordination through limited feedback” scheme is a very good candidate for improving the cell-edge user throughput as well as the average cell throughput of the future wireless communication networks

Epidemiology of human anthrax in China, 1955-2014

Using national surveillance data for 120,111 human anthrax cases recorded during 1955-2014, we analyzed the temporal, seasonal, geographic, and demographic distribution of this disease in China. After 1978, incidence decreased until 2013, when it reached a low of 0.014 cases/100,000 population. The case-fatality rate, cumulatively 3.6% during the study period, has also decreased since 1990. Cases occurred throughout the year, peaking in August. Geographic distribution decreased overall from west to east, but the cumulative number of affected counties increased during 2005-2014. The disease has shifted from industrial to agricultural workers; 86.7% of cases occurred in farmers and herdsmen. Most (97.7%) reported cases were the cutaneous form. Although progress has been made in reducing incidence, this study highlights areas that need improvement. Adequate laboratory diagnosis is lacking; only 7.6% of cases received laboratory confirmation. Geographic expansion of the disease indicates that livestock control programs will be essential in eradicating anthrax

Epidemiology of Human Anthrax in China, 1955−2014

Using national surveillance data for 120,111 human anthrax cases recorded during 1955-2014, we analyzed the temporal, seasonal, geographic, and demographic distribution of this disease in China. After 1978, incidence decreased until 2013, when it reached a low of 0.014 cases/100,000 population. The case-fatality rate, cumulatively 3.6% during the study period, has also decreased since 1990. Cases occurred throughout the year, peaking in August. Geographic distribution decreased overall from west to east, but the cumulative number of affected counties increased during 2005-2014. The disease has shifted from industrial to agricultural workers; 86.7% of cases occurred in farmers and herdsmen. Most (97.7%) reported cases were the cutaneous form. Although progress has been made in reducing incidence, this study highlights areas that need improvement. Adequate laboratory diagnosis is lacking; only 7.6% of cases received laboratory confirmation. Geographic expansion of the disease indicates that livestock control programs will be essential in eradicating anthrax

Intercell Interference Coordination through Limited Feedback

We consider the applications of multicell transmission schemes to the downlink of future wireless communication networks. A multicell multiple-input multiple output-(MIMOs) based scheme with limited coordination among neighboring base stations (BSs) is proposed to effectively combat the intercell interference by taking advantage of the degreesoffreedom in the spatial domain. In this scheme, mobile users are required to feedback channel-related information to both serving base station and interfering base station. Furthermore, a chordal distance-based compression scheme is introduced to reduce the feedback overhead. The performance of the proposed scheme is investigated through theoretical analysis as well as system level simulations. Both results suggest that the so-called “intercell interference coordination through limited feedback” scheme is a very good candidate for improving the cell-edge user throughput as well as the average cell throughput of the future wireless communication networks

Polymeric hydrogels and decellularized nucleus pulposus extracellular matrix technology for nucleus pulposus repair and regeneration

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) presents in a variety of ways and is first manifested by loss of nucleus pulposus (NP) cells, so replenishing NP cells is the key to IVDD treatment. The intensive research into the application of polymer materials and the booming development of decellularization technology offers new hope for patients in relieving pain, replacing damaged nucleus pulposus tissue, reversing degenerative disc cascades, maintaining mechanical properties of the spine and even improving conditions. In this review paper, we first briefly describe the anatomy of intervertebral disc (IVD) and the limitations of traditional therapeutic approaches for IVDD, and then focus on a review of research advances in materials for IVD repair and regeneration including polymeric hydrogels and decellularized nucleus pulposus extracellular matrix (dNP-ECM) technology. Hydrogel material is an ideal polymer material for NP repair, with good mechanical properties. At the same time, dNP-ECM scaffold, as a repair material with low immunogenicity, has attracted increasing attention in the field of IVD regeneration. Although these technologies are not yet widely available for clinical use, these treatment strategies may be a promising alternative approach to IVDD treatment and have great research value