bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Elastic Bandage Wraps on Leg Edema in Patients before and after Liver Transplant
Authors: Mathews Susan , James Shantell , Anderson Janet D. , Merchant Mehwish , Benenati Sonia , Henry Samantha , Comrie Gem , Pirani Shamsa , Zellinger Mary
Published: December 2015

Context—

Few studies have evaluated the benefits of short-term use of compression therapy to prevent or minimize edema and/or pain in the legs of acutely ill, hospitalized patients without venous leg ulcers.

Objective—

To determine if the use of elastic bandage wraps of the leg in patients before and after liver transplant decreases edema formation and pain in the leg.

Study Population—

A convenience sample of inpatients before and after liver transplant.

Study Design—

Pretest, posttest, randomized controlled trial with each participant serving as his or her own control.

Intervention—

Elastic bandage wrap applied to leg for 8 hours.

Outcome Measures—

Edema and pain in leg.

Results—

In 13 patients before and 11 patients after liver transplant, the mean (SD) change in leg circumference after a single 8-hour application of an elastic bandage wrap was −2.6 (2.2) cm at the ankle and −3.1 (2.9) cm at midcalf for wrapped legs, as opposed to −0.4 (1.6) cm at the ankle and 1.0 (2.8) cm at midcalf for unwrapped legs ( P< .001). Leg pain, measured on a visual analog scale, was significantly lower for the wrapped (mean [SD], 10.3 [26.5] mm) versus the unwrapped (20.3 [33.5] mm) leg ( P= .04).

Conclusion—

In inpatients before and after liver transplant, the application of elastic bandage wraps to 1 leg for an 8-hour period led to significantly less edema formation and pain compared with the unwrapped leg. These results support the use of elastic bandage wraps in liver transplant patients to reduce leg edema and improve comfort.
Rate and timing of cortical responses driven by separate sensory channels
Authors: Saal Hannes P , Harvey Michael A , Bensmaia Sliman J
Published: December 2015

The sense of touch comprises multiple sensory channels that each conveys characteristic signals during interactions with objects. These neural signals must then be integrated in such a way that behaviorally relevant information about the objects is preserved. To understand the process of integration, we implement a simple computational model that describes how the responses of neurons in somatosensory cortex—recorded from awake, behaving monkeys—are shaped by the peripheral input, reconstructed using simulations of neuronal populations that reproduce natural spiking responses in the nerve with millisecond precision. First, we find that the strength of cortical responses is driven by one population of nerve fibers (rapidly adapting) whereas the timing of cortical responses is shaped by the other (Pacinian). Second, we show that input from these sensory channels is integrated in an optimal fashion that exploits the disparate response behaviors of different fiber types.
Structural basis of death domain signaling in the p75 neurotrophin receptor
Authors: Lin Zhi , Tann Jason Y , Goh Eddy TH , Kelly Claire , Lim Kim Buay , Gao Jian Fang , Ibanez Carlos F
Published: December 2015

Death domains (DDs) mediate assembly of oligomeric complexes for activation of downstream signaling pathways through incompletely understood mechanisms. Here we report structures of complexes formed by the DD of p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) with RhoGDI, for activation of the RhoA pathway, with caspase recruitment domain (CARD) of RIP2 kinase, for activation of the NF-kB pathway, and with itself, revealing how DD dimerization controls access of intracellular effectors to the receptor. RIP2 CARD and RhoGDI bind to p75NTR DD at partially overlapping epitopes with over 100-fold difference in affinity, revealing the mechanism by which RIP2 recruitment displaces RhoGDI upon ligand binding. The p75NTR DD forms non-covalent, low-affinity symmetric dimers in solution. The dimer interface overlaps with RIP2 CARD but not RhoGDI binding sites, supporting a model of receptor activation triggered by separation of DDs. These structures reveal how competitive protein-protein interactions orchestrate the hierarchical activation of downstream pathways in non-catalytic receptors.
Mechanical sensitivity of Piezo1 ion channels can be tuned by cellular membrane tension
Authors: Lewis Amanda H , Grandl Jörg
Published: December 2015

Piezo1 ion channels mediate the conversion of mechanical forces into electrical signals and are critical for responsiveness to touch in metazoans. The apparent mechanical sensitivity of Piezo1 varies substantially across cellular environments, stimulating methods and protocols, raising the fundamental questions of what precise physical stimulus activates the channel and how its stimulus sensitivity is regulated. Here, we measured Piezo1 currents evoked by membrane stretch in three patch configurations, while simultaneously visualizing and measuring membrane geometry. Building on this approach, we developed protocols to minimize resting membrane curvature and tension prior to probing Piezo1 activity. We find that Piezo1 responds to lateral membrane tension with exquisite sensitivity as compared to other mechanically activated channels and that resting tension can drive channel inactivation, thereby tuning overall mechanical sensitivity of Piezo1. Our results explain how Piezo1 can function efficiently and with adaptable sensitivity as a sensor of mechanical stimulation in diverse cellular contexts.
Evaluation of curving characteristics of flexible liquid crystal displays fabricated using polycarbonate substrates
Authors: Sato Akihito , Ishinabe Takahiro , Fujikake Hideo
Published: December 2015

The improvement of the contrast ratio of flexible liquid crystal displays (LCDs) fabricated using plastic substrates in a curved state is an important problem to achieve high-quality flexible LCDs. In this study, we evaluated the distributions of in-plane phase retardation and slow axis direction of polycarbonate substrates and the effects of curvature on the electro-optical properties of flexible LCDs. As a result, we clarified that the polycarbonate substrates have high uniformity in the in-plane phase retardation and slow axis direction, and that the change in the phase retardation of the polycarbonate substrate caused by the curvature deformation has a small effect on the electro-optical characteristics of flexible LCDs. We successfully achieved a high contrast ratio of

by fabricating the device using polycarbonate substrates. This result indicates that it is possible to realize high-quality images in flexible LCDs fabricated using polycarbonate substrates even in the curved state.
Room-temperature wafer scale bonding using smoothed Au seal ring surfaces for hermetic sealing
Authors: Kurashima Yuichi , Maeda Atsuhiko , Takagi Hideki
Published: December 2015

We evaluated room-temperature bonding characteristics of electroplated Au surfaces smoothed by the lift-off and imprint methods. As a result, we found that smoothed surfaces enable strong bonding; on the other hand, electroplated rough surfaces result in very weak bonding. In transmission electron microscopy observations, no delamination was observed at the bonding interface bonded at room temperature using a smooth surface prepared by the lift-off method. Moreover, the hermeticity of the bonding interface prepared using smoothed surfaces was evaluated using diaphragm structures. As a result, we confirmed that good hermetic sealing was achieved using the electroplated Au surface smoothed by the lift-off method.
Performance analysis of electrophorically deposited ZnO-based dye-sensitized solar cells prepared using compression at elevated temperature along with postannealing
Authors: Choudhury Md. Shamimul Haque , Kishi Naoki , Soga Tetsuo
Published: December 2015

In this investigation, zinc oxide (ZnO)-based dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) were fabricated by electrophoretic deposition (EPD) using fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO)-coated glass substrates. Electrophoretically deposited photoanodes were annealed at different temperatures to investigate the effect of the postannealing temperature on the photovoltaic performance of DSSCs. Solar cells prepared with different compression pressures and compressions at an elevated temperature (optimum at 70 °C) were the state-of-the-art for this type of investigation. The photovoltaic performance was found to be improved by this novel heating and compression technique compared with the conventional postannealing or compression technique. When high-temperature postannealing (around 450 °C) was carried out along with heating and compression, the efficiency was found to be improved. From the surface morphology of the photoanodes investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), it was evident that compression at an elevated temperature is favorable to obtain a uniform compact layer.
Motivações, dimensões da imagem e qualidades afetivas dos lugares: a escolha do destino e as fotos em viagens de turismo e lazer
Authors: Scherer Flavia Luciane , Hahn Ivanete Schneider , Stein Liliam Cristine , Barpp Denise Bolzan
Published: December 2015

O turismo é dependente de aspectos que motivam as pessoas a viajarem e do que elas esperam receber em troca. A imagem representa o caminho que os destinos tomam para se posicionar e atingir um grau suficiente de reconhecimento (Di Marino, 2014). Este estudo objetivou explorar as dimensões das imagens e as qualidades afetivas dos lugares em fotos de viagens de turismo e lazer. Objetivou ainda, identificar as motivações que influenciam a escolha do destino turístico. Para atender ao objetivo, foram conduzidas duas pesquisas. A primeira, de caráter quantitativo e descritivo foi operacionalizada por meio de uma survey com 232 pessoas que fizeram viagens de turismo ou lazer nos últimos três anos. A segunda etapa da pesquisa, de caráter qualitativo e confirmatório, foi realizada por meio de aplicação de 12 entrevistas com consumidores de viagens de lazer/turismo. Os resultados mostram que a imagem afetiva, a atmosfera e o lazer são as dimensões mais determinantes na escolha do destino turístico. Verificou-se ainda que os sentimentos dos respondentes em relação à sua foto, voltam-se ao campo afetivo e emocional.
Measurement of Glucose Uptake in Cultured Cells
Authors: Yamamoto Norio , Ueda‐Wakagi Manabu , Sato Takuya , Kawasaki Kengo , Sawada Keisuke , Kawabata Kyuichi , Akagawa Mitsugu , Ashida Hitoshi
Published: December 2015

Facilitative glucose uptake transport systems are ubiquitous in animal cells and are responsible for transporting glucose across cell surface membranes. Evaluation of glucose uptake is crucial in the study of numerous diseases and metabolic disorders such as myocardial ischemia, diabetes mellitus, and cancer. Detailed in this unit are laboratory methods for assessing glucose uptake into mammalian cells. The unit is divided into five sections: (1) a brief overview of glucose uptake assays in cultured cells; (2) a method for measuring glucose uptake using radiolabeled 3‐O‐methylglucose; (3) a method for measuring glucose uptake using radiolabeled 2‐deoxyglucose (2DG); (4) a microplate method for measuring 2DG‐uptake using an enzymatic, fluorometric assay; and (5) a microplate‐based method using a fluorescent analog of 2DG. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Experimental laboratory study on the formation of multiple shock waves observed during volcanic eruptions
Authors: Médici E. F. , Waite G. P.
Published: December 2015

Sequences of multiple pressure waves have recently been observed in different explosive volcanic eruptions, but their origin is not clearly understood. Although a pulsating type of eruption with many individual discharges can produce this effect, the formation of multiple shock waves could also result from a single discharge through (1) the dynamics of the shock wave itself, (2) the coupled shock wave‐supersonic jet dynamics, or (3) a combination of these factors. Shock tube experiments were performed to evaluate these potential mechanisms under controlled laboratory conditions. The amount of energy released was varied to achieve different weak shock wave conditions and to promote formation of single or multiple shock waves through both shock wave dynamics and coupled shock wave‐supersonic jet interactions. Our analysis indicates that both mechanisms may play a role in the formation of multiple pressure waves in low‐intensity eruptions.
Seismic array constraints on the D″ discontinuity beneath Central America
Authors: Whittaker Stefanie , Thorne Michael S. , Schmerr Nicholas C. , Miyagi Lowell
Published: December 2015

We analyzed 16,150 transverse component seismic recordings from 54 deep‐focus earthquakes in the South American and Caribbean regions recorded at broadband stations in North America between 2005 and 2012. We treated subgroups of seismic stations within 3° radius geographical bins as seismic arrays and performed vespagram analysis. We focused on the S, ScS, and Scd arrivals and collected data in the epicentral distance range from 55° to 90°. In particular, we searched for D″ discontinuity presence in the vespagrams in a 25° by 35° (or 1520 by 2130 km) area beneath Central America. Analysis of these data showed 125 clear Scd observations, 180 Scd observations of lesser quality, and 343 nonobservations. We produced a new map of the discontinuity height beneath Central America. Our map shows an average discontinuity height of 286 ± 6 km (σ = 76 km). The region is punctuated by a large topographic high centered at approximately 10°N and 90°W with a maximum height of 380 km. Two smaller topographic highs are located at approximately 4°N and 81°W (discontinuity height of 320 km) and at 4°N and 70°W (height of 315 km). The observation of multiple Scd arrivals collocated with the strongest gradients in inferred topography provides evidence for topographic variation on the discontinuity rather than multiple discontinuities. The regions where the discontinuity has the greatest height can be explained by localized enrichment of mid‐ocean ridge basalt from the subducted Farallon slab impinging on the core‐mantle boundary.
Estimation of critical shear stress for erosion in the Changjiang Estuary: A synergy research of observation, GOCI sensing and modeling
Authors: Ge Jianzhong , Shen Fang , Guo Wenyun , Chen Changsheng , Ding Pingxing
Published: December 2015

Simulating the sediment transport in a high‐turbidity region with spatially varying bed properties is challenging. A comprehensive strategy that integrates multiple methods is applied here to retrieve the critical shear stress for erosion, which plays a major role in suspended sediment dynamics in the Changjiang Estuary (CE). Time‐series of sea surface suspended sediment concentration (SSC) were retrieved from the Geostationary Ocean Color Imager (GOCI) satellite data at hourly intervals (for 8 h each day) and combined with hydrodynamic modeling of high‐resolution CE Finite‐Volume Community Ocean Model (CE‐FVCOM) to estimate the near‐bed critical shear stress in the clay‐dominated bed region (plasticity index > 7%). An experimental algorithm to determine the in situ critical shear stress via the plasticity index method was also used to verify the GOCI‐derived critical shear stress. Implemented with this new critical shear stress, the sediment transport model significantly improved the simulation of the distribution and spatial variability of the SSC during the spring and neap tidal cycles in the CE. The results suggest that a significant lateral water exchange between channels and shoals occurred during the spring flood tide, which led to a broader high‐SSC area in the CE throughout the water column.
A case study of a transported bromine explosion event in the Canadian high arctic
Authors: Zhao X. , Strong K. , Adams C. , Schofield R. , Yang X. , Richter A. , Friess U. , Blechschmidt A.‐M. , Koo J.‐H.
Published: December 2015

Ozone depletion events in the polar troposphere have been linked to extremely high concentrations of bromine, known as bromine explosion events (BEE). However, the optimum meteorological conditions for the occurrence of these events remain uncertain. On 4–5 April 2011, a combination of both blowing snow and a stable shallow boundary layer was observed during a BEE at Eureka, Canada (86.4°W, 80.1°N). Measurements made by a Multi‐Axis Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy spectrometer were used to retrieve BrO profiles and partial columns. During this event, the near‐surface BrO volume mixing ratio increased to ~20 parts per trillion by volume, while ozone was depleted to ~1 ppbv from the surface to 700 m. Back trajectories and Global Ozone Monitoring Experiment‐2 satellite tropospheric BrO columns confirmed that this event originated from a bromine explosion over the Beaufort Sea. From 30 to 31 March, meteorological data showed high wind speeds (24 m/s) and elevated boundary layer heights (~800 m) over the Beaufort Sea. Long‐distance transportation (~1800 km over 5 days) to Eureka indicated strong recycling of BrO within the bromine plume. This event was generally captured by a global chemistry‐climate model when a sea‐salt bromine source from blowing snow was included. A model sensitivity study indicated that the surface BrO at Eureka was controlled by both local photochemistry and boundary layer dynamics. Comparison of the model results with both ground‐based and satellite measurements confirmed that the BEE observed at Eureka was triggered by transport of enhanced BrO from the Beaufort Sea followed by local production/recycling under stable atmospheric shallow boundary layer conditions.
Changes to freshwater systems affecting Arctic infrastructure and natural resources
Authors: Instanes Arne , Kokorev Vasily , Janowicz Richard , Bruland Oddbjørn , Sand Knut , Prowse Terry
Published: December 2015

The resources component of the Arctic Freshwater Synthesis focuses on the potential impact of future climate and change on water resources in the Arctic and how Arctic infrastructure and exploration and production of natural resources are affected. Freshwater availability may increase in the Arctic in the future in response to an increase in middle‐ and high‐latitude annual precipitation. Changes in type of precipitation, its seasonal distribution, timing, and rate of snowmelt represent a challenge to municipalities and transportation networks subjected to flooding and droughts and to current industries and future industrial development. A reliable well‐distributed water source is essential for all infrastructures, industrial development, and other sectorial uses in the Arctic. Fluctuations in water supply and seasonal precipitation and temperature may represent not only opportunities but also threats to water quantity and quality for Arctic communities and industrial use. The impact of future climate change is varying depending on the geographical area and the current state of infrastructure and industrial development. This paper provides a summary of our current knowledge related to the system function and key physical processes affecting northern water resources, industry, and other sectorial infrastructure.
High Reversible Lithium Storage Capacity and Structural Changes of Fe2O3 Nanoparticles Confined inside Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Yu Wan‐Jing , Zhang Lili , Hou Peng‐Xiang , Li Feng , Liu Chang , Cheng Hui‐Ming
Published: December 2015

The structural evolution of electrochemically prelithiated Fe2O3 nanoparticles confined in carbon nanotubes (CNTs) during lithium insertion/extraction is studied by in situ transmission electron microscopy. It is found that the aggregation and coarsening of Fe core‐containing Li2O (Fe@Li2O) nanograins formed during the charge process are prevented by the spatial restriction of the CNTs. A high reversible capacity of 2071 mA h g−1 for the encapsulated Fe2O3 nanoparticles in CNTs is demonstrated when the material is used as the anode of lithium ion batteries. This is the highest reversible capacity ever reported for an Fe2O3 electrode. The significantly improved lithium storage capacity of the Fe2O3 nanoparticles is attributed to the extra lithium storage due to the enhanced interfacial lithium storage and reversible reaction of LiOH to form LiH and solid‐electrolyte‐interphase conversion originating from the nanoconfinement of CNTs as well as the very small particle size of the Fe@Li2O nanograins and their good electrical contact with CNTs.
Phosphorylation of RAF Kinase Dimers Drives Conformational Changes that Facilitate Transactivation
Authors: Jambrina Pablo G. , Rauch Nora , Pilkington Ruth , Rybakova Katja , Nguyen Lan K. , Kholodenko Boris N. , Buchete Nicolae‐Viorel , Kolch Walter , Rosta Edina
Published: December 2015

RAF kinases are key players in the MAPK signaling pathway and are important targets for personalized cancer therapy. RAF dimerization is part of the physiological activation mechanism, together with phosphorylation, and is known to convey resistance to RAF inhibitors. Herein, molecular dynamics simulations are used to show that phosphorylation of a key N‐terminal acidic (NtA) motif facilitates RAF dimerization by introducing several interprotomer salt bridges between the αC‐helix and charged residues upstream of the NtA motif. Additionally, we show that the R‐spine of RAF interacts with a conserved Trp residue in the vicinity of the NtA motif, connecting the active sites of two protomers and thereby modulating the cooperative interactions in the RAF dimer. Our findings provide a first structure‐based mechanism for the auto‐transactivation of RAF and could be generally applicable to other kinases, opening new pathways for overcoming dimerization‐related drug resistance.
Beyond the Capture of Circulating Tumor Cells: Next‐Generation Devices and Materials
Authors: Green Brenda J. , Saberi Safaei Tina , Mepham Adam , Labib Mahmoud , Mohamadi Reza M. , Kelley Shana O.
Published: December 2015

Over the last decade, significant progress has been made towards the development of approaches that enable the capture of rare circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from the blood of cancer patients, a critical capability for noninvasive tumor profiling. These advances have leveraged new insights in materials chemistry and microfluidics and allowed the capture and enumeration of CTCs with unprecedented sensitivity. However, it has become increasingly clear that simply capturing and counting tumor cells launched into the bloodstream may not provide the information needed to advance our understanding of the biology of these rare cells, or to allow us to better exploit them in medicine. A variety of advances have now emerged demonstrating that more information can be extracted from CTCs with next‐generation devices and materials featuring tailored physical and chemical properties. In this Minireview, the last ten years of work in this area will be discussed, with an emphasis on the groundbreaking work of the last five years, during which the focus has moved beyond the simple capture of CTCs and gravitated towards approaches that enable in‐depth analysis.
A Rhodium‐Mediated Contraction of Benzene to Cyclopentadiene: Transformations of Rhodium(III) m‐Benziporphyrin
Authors: Hurej Karolina , Pawlicki Miłosz , Szterenberg Ludmiła , Latos‐Grażyński Lechosław
Published: December 2015

The contraction of benzene is one of an exclusive group of reactions where the cleavage of aromatic structure is of fundamental importance. Rhodium(III) m‐benziporphyrin undergoes an unprecedented transformation of the built‐in m‐phenylene in which a perimeter carbon atom is extruded to form rhodium(III) 21‐carbaporphyrin, stabilizing the formyl‐unit‐substituted rhodacyclopropane motif.
Nanoparticle‐Mediated Intervalence Charge Transfer: Core‐Size Effects
Authors: Hu Peiguang , Chen Limei , Deming Christopher P. , Kang Xiongwu , Chen Shaowei
Published: December 2015

Two types of platinum nanoparticles (NPs) functionalized with ethynylferrocene were prepared. The subnanometer‐sized NPs (Pt10eFc) showed semiconductor‐like characteristics with a bandgap of about 1.0 eV, and the other was metal‐like with a core size of about 2 nm (Pt314eFc) and no significant bandgap. IR spectroscopic measurements showed a clear red‐shift of the C≡C and ferrocenyl ring =C−H vibrational energies with increasing particle core size owing to enhanced intraparticle charge delocalization between the particle‐bound ferrocenyl moieties. Electrochemical measurements showed two pairs of voltammetric peaks owing to intervalence charge transfer between the ferrocenyl groups on the nanoparticle surface, which was apparently weaker with Pt10eFc than with Pt314eFc. Significantly, the former might be markedly enhanced with UV photoirradiation owing to enhanced nanoparticle electronic conductivity, whereas no apparent effects were observed with the latter.
Preparation and characterization of highly thermostable polyisocyanurate foams modified with epoxy resin
Authors: Chen Keping , Tian Chunrong , Cao Fen , Liang Shuen , Jia Xiaorong , Wang Jianhua
Published: December 2015

A series of epoxy resin–modified polyisocyanurate (EP‐PIR) foams with oxazolidone (OX) rings and isocyanurate (IS) rings have been successfully prepared by the reaction of polymethylene polyphenyl isocyanate (PAPI) and diglycidyl ether of bisphenol‐A (DGEBA). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry are performed to investigate the influence of curing temperature on the chemical structure of EP‐PIR foams. The results indicate that low temperature is beneficial to the formation of the IS ring, and high temperature is in favor of the OX ring. The influence of the mole ratio of [PAPI]/[DGEBA] on the mechanical properties and thermal stability has also been studied. With the increase of [PAPI]/[DGEBA], the specific compressive strength shows a maximum of 0.0135 ± 0.0003 MPa m3/kg. The optimized mole ratio of [PAPI]/[DGEBA] is around 2.5 to reach the better mechanical and thermal properties, and the glass‐transition temperature is as high as 323.5°C. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2016,133, 43085.
On the general consensus protocol in multi‐agent networks with second‐order dynamics and sampled data
Authors: Wang Aijuan , Dong Tao , Liao Xiaofeng
Published: December 2015

This paper considers the problem of the convergence of the consensus for multiple agents in a directed network. A general distributed consensus protocol is designed, the advantage of this protocol is that almost all the existing linear local interaction consensus protocols can be considered as special cases of the present paper. Necessary and sufficient conditions are established for reaching consensus of the system by choosing the appropriate sampling period, the control parameters and the spectra of the Laplacian matrix. It is found that second‐order consensus cannot be reached for a sufficiently large sampling period while it can be reached for a sufficiently small one. Furthermore, the coupling gains can be carefully designed under the given network structure and the sampling period. Finally, a simulation example is given to verify and illustrate the theoretical analysis.
Recent increase in heat wave frequency around Mongolia: role of atmospheric forcing and possible influence of soil moisture deficit
Authors: Erdenebat Enkhbat , Sato Tomonori
Published: December 2015

A 30‐year meteorological station and reanalysis datasets revealed that the frequency and intensity of hot extremes have increased dramatically around Mongolia since the late 1990s. Many recent heat waves (HWs) were triggered by atmospheric forcing with a mid‐tropospheric ridge pattern which appears frequently around Mongolia in 2000s. An observational data analysis for each HW event indicates that the rate of temperature increase at the beginning stage of HW is sensitive to the soil moisture condition. Therefore, it is suggested that the recent drier soil conditions played a role in enhancing the frequency and intensity of HWs and localization around Mongolia.
Preventive maintenance of multistate systems subject to shocks
Authors: Finkelstein Maxim , Gertsbakh Ilya
Published: December 2015

A new approach to optimal maintenance of multistate systems (networks) with binary components is developed. Univariate and multivariate signatures are used for description of system's structure and for efficient dealing with corresponding optimal maintenance problems. A system is subject to a shock process. Each shock destroys in a random way one of the operating components. The first strategy is to perform the preventive maintenance after the system enters one of the intermediate states between the initial UP state and the final absorbing DOWN state. The second strategy is to carry out preventive maintenance after the system experiences k shocks. Some illustrations and numerical results are presented. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Personalized augmented reality for anatomy education
Authors: Ma Meng , Fallavollita Pascal , Seelbach Ina , Von Der Heide Anna Maria , Euler Ekkehard , Waschke Jens , Navab Nassir
Published: December 2015

Anatomy education is a challenging but vital element in forming future medical professionals. In this work, a personalized and interactive augmented reality system is developed to facilitate education. This system behaves as a “magic mirror” which allows personalized in‐situ visualization of anatomy on the user's body. Real‐time volume visualization of a CT dataset creates the illusion that the user can look inside their body. The system comprises a RGB‐D sensor as a real‐time tracking device to detect the user moving in front of a display. In addition, the magic mirror system shows text information, medical images, and 3D models of organs that the user can interact with. Through the participation of 7 clinicians and 72 students, two user studies were designed to respectively assess the precision and acceptability of the magic mirror system for education. The results of the first study demonstrated that the average precision of the augmented reality overlay on the user body was 0.96 cm, while the results of the second study indicate 86.1% approval for the educational value of the magic mirror, and 91.7% approval for the augmented reality capability of displaying organs in three dimensions. The usefulness of this unique type of personalized augmented reality technology has been demonstrated in this paper. Clin. Anat. 29:446–453, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genetic variants in PI3K/AKT pathway are associated with severe radiation pneumonitis in lung cancer patients treated with radiation therapy
Authors: Tang Yang , Liu Bo , Li Jing , Wu Huanlei , Yang Ju , Zhou Xiao , Yi Mingxiao , Li Qianxia , Yu Shiying , Yuan Xianglin
Published: December 2015

PI3K/AKT pathway plays important roles in inflammatory and fibrotic diseases while its connection to radiation pneumonitis (RP) is unclear. In this study, we explored the associations of genetic variants in PI3K/AKT pathway with RP in lung cancer patients with radiotherapy. Two hundred and sixty one lung cancer patients with radiotherapy were included in this prospective study (NCT02490319) and genotyped by MassArray and Sanger Sequence methods. By multivariate Cox hazard analysis and multiple testing, GA/GG genotype of AKT2: rs33933140 (HR = 0.272, 95% CI: 0.140–0.530, P = 1.3E–4, Pc = 9.1E–4), and the GT/GG genotype of PI3CA: rs9838117 (HR = 0.132, 95% CI: 0.042–0.416, P = 0.001, Pc = 0.006) were found to be strongly associated with a decreased occurrence of RP ≥ grade 3. And patients with the CT/TT genotype of AKT2: rs11880261 had a notably higher incidence of RP ≥ grade 3 (HR = 2.950, 95% CI: 1.380–6.305, P = 0.005, Pc = 0.025). We concluded that the genetic variants of PI3K/AKT pathway were significantly related to RP of grade ≥ 3 and may thus be predictors of severe RP before radiotherapy, if further validated in larger population.
A novel endovascular occlusion device with a steerable introducer for embolization in a porcine model
Authors: Lu Weifeng , Fu Weiguo , Si Yi , Chen Xiaoli , Cai Qiuni , Xiong Yu , Hong Shichai , Yang Donghai
Published: December 2015

Objectives

It has been reported that vascular plugging has become a therapeutic alternative to coil embolization in certain cases that require occlusion. However, the use of a relatively large and rigid delivery sheath may be a limiting factor in vascular plug use. In this study, we aimed to determine the safety and efficacy of a novel transcatheter occlusion device with unique design and delivery system in a pig model.

Methods

The Cera vascular plug was delivered and deployed through the FuStar steerable introducer sheath, which can control tip direction during advancement. Twelve pigs were randomized to undergo an embolization procedure in which the Cera vascular plug was implanted into the left internal iliac artery (IIA) with the FuStar steerable introducer (n = 6) or a control introducer sheath. Another eight pigs were assigned to undergo an embolization procedure in which the test device was implanted into either the splenic artery (SA, n = 4) or the lower segmental branch of left renal artery (LRA, n = 4). Angiography and pathological examinations were performed to evaluate the outcomes.

Results

A total of 20 target vessels were embolized with a total of 22 test plugs. Compared with the control introducer, plug embolization through the FuStar steerable introducer was associated with shorter fluoroscopy time (21.50 ± 3.62 vs. 28.33 ± 2.16 min, P = 0.003) and less contrast medium (129.17 ± 22.68 vs. 162.50 ± 13.69 mL, P = 0.012). At the 2‐month follow‐up, angiography and pathological examinations did not show any evidence of migration, and persistent occlusion was observed in 18 of the 20 target vessels. Organ ischemia occurred when plugs were deployed within the lower segmental branch of the LRA.

Conclusion

This novel device is suitable for therapeutic vascular embolization with the use of flexible delivery systems. The different outcomes of SA and LRA plugging suggested that the occluding device should be placed within the appropriate portion of the target vessel to allow the development of collateralization. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Successful retrieval of a firmly stuck rotablator burr by using a modified STAR technique
Authors: Tanaka Yutaka , Saito Shigeru
Published: December 2015

Rotablator burr entrapment occurring during rotational atherectomy is a rare but serious complication that can lead to coronary occlusion and require emergency cardiac surgery. Although several bailout techniques for stuck burrs have been proposed, no definitive methods for removal have been established. We report here a difficult case of a stuck rotablator burr, in which various techniques failed to retrieve the burr. It was ultimately removed using the subintimal tracking and reentry (STAR) technique with a 3‐g tapered tip hydrophilic wire. This modified STAR technique, which was originally developed for percutaneous coronary intervention for chronic total occlusion, may be useful as a bailout technique in patients with a firmly stuck rotablator burr that cannot be removed by using standard procedures. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Infectious endocarditis due to Streptococcus pneumoniae in a cardiac surgery patient: a new form of clinical presentation
Authors: Lacalzada Juan , Padilla Marta , de la Rosa Alejandro , Laynez Ignacio
Published: December 2015

Key Clinical Message

High mortality associated with pneumococcal endocarditis is due to late diagnosis and the frequency of complications, which usually require early diagnostic and intensive therapeutic measures. We present the first reported case of pneumococcal endocarditis with simultaneous infection of an aortic prosthetic valve, native tricuspid valve, and permanent pacemaker lead.
A case of leukemic retinopathy mimicking common ischemic retinopathies
Authors: Awuah Agnes , Asiedu Kofi , Adanusa Madison , Ntodie Michael , Acquah Ebo , Kyei Samuel
Published: December 2015

Key Clinical Message

Reported case of leukemic retinopathy mimicking common ischemic retinopathies in a young adult where ophthalmic visit was the first step to the diagnosis of chronic myeloid leukemia. It highlights the importance of routine eye exams and that clinicians should suspect leukemia in an otherwise healthy patient presenting with ischemic retinopathy.
A seven weeks old baby with diabetic ketoacidosis: a case report
Authors: Fredrick Francis , Sawe Hendry , Muze Kandi , Mally Deogratius , Majaliwa Edna
Published: December 2015

Key clinical message

Diabetes mellitus is rare during infancy, however, it should be suspected in infants presenting with features consistent with sepsis and hyperglycemia. This is crucial in initiating the treatment of diabetes ketoacidosis which if delayed may result in significant morbidity and death.
Compounds with Low‐Valent p‐Block Elements for Small Molecule Activation and Catalysis
Authors: Yadav Sandeep , Saha Sumana , Sen Sakya S.
Published: December 2015

The past decade has witnessed staggering progress in the chemistry of compounds with low‐valent main‐group elements. Although these discoveries are mostly fundamental by nature, these compounds show promising reactivity towards small molecule activation. The reactivity of these compounds stems from the modest HOMO–LUMO energy gap; a characteristic known for the transition metals. The journey began in 2005 with the facile activation of dihydrogen by an alkyne analog of germanium [ArGe≡GeAr; Ar=2,6‐Trip2‐C6H3 (Trip=2,4,6‐iPr3‐C6H2)]. Subsequently, tremendous progress has been achieved in understanding and elucidating the potential of these compounds to activate small molecules as well as to use them in a variety of stoichiometric and catalytic transformations. In this review, we focus on developments in the activation of H2, NH3, CO, and CO2 by compounds with multiply bound or open shell main‐group elements. Emphasis will be given to their catalytic activity.
Morphological and Biochemical Responses of Spirogyra setiformis Exposed to Cadmium
Authors: Çelekli Abuzer , Gültekin Emine , Bozkurt Hüseyin
Published: December 2015

This study was designed to explore the effect of exogenously applied cadmium (Cd2+) on the biochemical and morphological structure of Spirogyra setiformis. The presence of regular spiral chloroplasts at control group (without Cd2+) was deteriorated within the 30 mg/L Cd2+ group. Lower Cd2+ concentrations decreased the biomass, pigments, and protein production of the alga. Production of malondialdehyde (MDA), proline, H2O2, and total phenolic compounds increased due to the inactivation of some enzymes under Cd2+ stress. The effect of Cd2+ on the biochemical content of S. setiformis was evaluated by the canonical correspondence analysis. FTIR–ATR was used for searching active groups on the algal biomass with/without Cd2+ exposure. The results confirmed that amino, amide, and anionic groups could play a significant role on the uptake of Cd2+ by the alga. MDA, proline, H2O2, and total phenolic compounds in the alga with exposure to Cd2+ seemed to be parameters as biomarkers for metal‐induced oxidative stress.
Natural killer cell (NK) subsets and NK‐like T‐cell populations in acute myeloid leukemias and myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Aggarwal N. , Swerdlow S. H. , TenEyck S. P. , Boyiadzis M. , Felgar R. E.
Published: December 2015

The impact of the immune microenvironment on the behavior and therapeutic strategies for hematopoietic and lymphoid neoplasms is being increasingly recognized. Many functional studies of natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxic responses in myelodysplasia (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) exist, but with limited data on these lymphocyte proportions and related T‐cell subsets. The proportions of these cells and their prognostic implications were therefore investigated in 89 AML, 51 MDS, and 20 control marrows by flow cytometry. The median proportion of NK cells (relative to the total lymphocytes) was lower in AML versus controls (P = 0.01). Among AML, a lower proportion of NK cells predicted better survival, whereas a higher NK cell proportion was associated with the poor prognostic AML category (P = 0.002). NK cell proportions were similar in MDS, MDS subgroups, and control marrows. The relative proportion of the mature NK cell subset (CD56dim CD16/57bright) was lower in AML and MDS versus controls (P = 0.006, P = 0.0002, respectively). The proportion of mature NK cells was not a prognostic indicator although fewer were seen in poor prognosis AML. In contrast, a lower proportion of mature NK cells correlated with worse survival in MDS (P = 0.027). A higher proportion of NK‐like T‐cells (of total lymphoid cells) was found in MDS compared to controls (P = 0.01). A lower proportion of NK‐like T‐cells predicted better survival in AML but not in MDS. Thus, the proportions of NK, NK‐cell subsets, and NK‐like T‐cells vary in myeloid neoplasms, may potentially impact immunomodulatory therapies, and may impact outcome. © 2016 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Fecal antibody levels as a noninvasive method for measuring immunity to gastrointestinal nematodes in ecological studies
Authors: Watt Kathryn A. , Nussey Daniel H. , Maclellan Rachel , Pilkington Jill G. , McNeilly Tom N.
Published: December 2015

Among‐individual variation in antibody‐associated immunity to gastrointestinal nematode parasites (GIN) is known be associated with life‐history traits and vital rates in wild vertebrate systems. To date, measurement of levels of antibodies against GIN antigens in natural populations has exclusively been based on invasive blood sampling techniques. Previous work in laboratory rodents and ruminant livestock suggests that antibody measures from feces may provide a viable noninvasive approach. We measured total and anti‐GIN antibodies of different isotypes (immunoglobulin (Ig) G, IgA and IgE) from paired samples of plasma and feces from free‐living Soay sheep of different ages and sexes. We tested the correlations among these measures as well as their associations with body mass and Strongyle nematode fecal egg counts (FEC). Significant positive correlations were present among plasma and fecal anti‐GIN antibody levels for IgG and IgA. Generally, correlations between total antibody levels in plasma and feces were weaker and not significant. No significant relationships were found between any antibody measures and body mass; however, fecal anti‐GIN antibody levels were significantly negatively correlated with FEC. Our data clearly demonstrate the feasibility of measuring anti‐GIN antibodies from fecal samples collected in natural populations. Although associations of fecal antibody levels with their plasma counterparts and FEC were relatively weak, the presence of significant correlations in the predicted direction in a relatively small and heterogeneous sample suggests fecal antibody measures could be a useful, noninvasive addition to current eco‐immunological studies.
Reversible transition from a hypertrophic to a dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Spillmann Frank , Kühl Uwe , Van Linthout Sophie , Dominguez Fernando , Escher Felicitas , Schultheiss Heinz‐Peter , Pieske Burkert , Tschöpe Carsten
Published: December 2015

We report the case of a 17‐year‐old female patient with known hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and a Wolff‐Parkinson‐White syndrome. She came to our department for further evaluation of a new diagnosed dilated cardiomyopathy characterized by an enlargement of the left ventricle and a fall in ejection fraction. Clinically, she complained about atypical chest pain, arrhythmic episodes with presyncopal events, and dyspnea (NYHA III) during the last 6 months. Non‐invasive and invasive examinations including magnetic resonance imaging, electrophysiological examinations, and angiography did not lead to a conclusive diagnosis. Therefore, endomyocardial biopsies (EMBs) were taken to investigate whether a specific myocardial disease caused the impairment of the left ventricular function. EMB analysis resulted in the diagnosis of a virus‐negative, active myocarditis. Based on this diagnosis, an immunosuppressive treatment with prednisolone and azathioprine was started, which led to an improvement of cardiac function and symptoms within 3 months after initiating therapy. In conclusion, we show that external stress triggered by myocarditis can induce a reversible transition from a hypertrophic cardiomyopathy to a dilated cardiomyopathy phenotype. This case strongly underlines the need for a thorough and invasive examination of heart failure of unknown causes, including EMB investigations as recommend by the actual ESC position statement.
Quantitative analysis of acidity level in virgin coconut oils by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and chemometrics
Authors: Zicker Marina Campos , Craig Ana Paula , de Oliveira Ramiro Déborah , Franca Adriana S. , Labanca Renata Adriana , Ferreira Adaliene Versiane Matos
Published: December 2015

The quality of virgin coconut oil (VCO), together with its health functionalities, is directly related to its freshness and to the levels of free fatty acids (FFA). Thus, the goal of this work was to develop a quantitative model based on partial least squares regression (PLSR) to predict FFA levels (%) in VCO. A total of 72 Brazilian commercial samples classified in accordance to their shelf life was analyzed. FFA levels ranged from 0.3 to 2.3%. FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) spectra were recorded within a range of 3100 to 680 cm−1 and submitted to mathematical preprocessing. Quantitative models were developed by partial least squares regression (PLSR). Excellent predictive results were obtained, indicating that the FFA levels in VCO could be accurately quantified by FTIR. The correlation coefficient (R) and the root mean squared error of prediction (RMSEP) were, respectively, as high as 0.994 and as low as 0.07.

Practical applications: According to international standards, acid‐base titration is the reference method for the determination of FFA in oils. This method is laborious and time‐consuming, uses toxic and flammable solvents and it is susceptible to error when detecting the color change of the indicator. Some of the advantages of FTIR over the official acid‐base titration method are the short time and simplicity of analysis. Besides that, it is non‐destructive and it does not require hazardous solvents and reagents. The results shown in this study indicate that FTIR spectroscopy and chemometrics can be successfully applied to the quantitative evaluation of FFA in VCO.

The quality of virgin coconut oil (VCO), together with its health functionalities, is directly related to its freshness and to the levels of free fatty acids (FFA). Acid‐base titration is the reference method for the determination of FFA in oils. This method is laborious and time‐consuming, uses toxic and flammable solvents and it is susceptible to error when detecting the color change of the indicator. FTIR is a rapid, non‐destructive, and accurate technique that could overcome some of the drawbacks of titration methodologies and could be easily implemented in routine quality control laboratories. The results shown in this study indicate that FTIR spectroscopy and chemometrics can be successfully applied to the quantitative evaluation of FFA in VCO.