bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Lower Limb Prosthesis Haptic Feedback System for Stair Descent
Authors: Sie Astrini , Realmuto Jonathan , Rombokas Eric
Published: October 2017

Though there are a variety of prosthetic limbs that address the motor deficits associated with amputation, there has been relatively little progress in restoring sensation. Prosthetic limbs provide little direct sensory feedback of the forces they encounter in the environment, but “closing the loop” between sensation and action can make a great difference in performance [1].

For users of lower limb prostheses, stair descent is a difficult and dangerous task. The difficulty in stair descent can be attributed to three different factors: 1) Absence of tactile and haptic sensations at the bottom of the foot. Although force on the prosthetic socket provides some haptic feedback of the terrain being stepped on, this feedback does not provide information on the location of the staircase edge. 2) Insufficient ankle flexion of lower limb prostheses. Dorsiflexion of the physiological ankle during stair descent is about 27°. Even prostheses that provide active dorsiflexion provide less than this number, and regular prostheses provide almost no ankle dorsiflexion. The first two factors are analogous to the sensation of stair descent for someone without amputation wearing ski boots. 3) Prosthetic feet are optimized for flat-ground walking, offering undesirable energy storage at ankle flexion and energy return at toe-off. This can result in unwanted extra energy at the end of stance phase, propelling the user forward down the stairs.

Most lower limb prosthesis designs focus on flat ground walking, but there has been less progress in addressing the challenges of stair descent. One technique that users of prosthetic lower limbs can use for addressing these challenges is to employ an “overhanging toe” foot placement strategy. Under this strategy, the edge of the staircase is used as a pivot point for the foot to roll over the stair. This reduces the need for ankle flexion by allowing the knee and hip to compensate, and avoids storing energy in the prosthetic spring. This strategy is dynamic, and requires the user to know the amount of toe overhang to adjust the movement of the rest of the body. Most haptic devices built to assist individuals wearing prostheses focus on upper extremity tasks [2–4] or standing and walking [5,6]. Whereas previous lower limb sensory replacement systems have targeted standing measures, here we focus on stair descent. The system provides cues of the stair edge location via vibrotactile stimulations on the thigh.
Design of a Miniature Pump for Chronic Mechanical Circulatory Support Using Computational Fluid Dynamics and Flow Visualization
Authors: Stanfield J. Ryan , Wampler Richard K. , Wu Jingchun , Stewart James , Snyder Trevor A. , Long James W.
Published: October 2017

Ventricular assist devices (VADs) have become an accepted method of treating end-stage heart failure over the last few decades. In recent years, the use of rotary blood pumps (RBPs) as continuous flow VADs has surged ahead, and virtually eliminated the use of pulsatile-flow or volume-displacement pumps for implantable, chronic mechanical circulatory support (MCS). As the use of RBPs has become commonplace for the treatment of end-stage heart failure, the need for an implantable right-side MCS device for adults [1] and implantable MCS for the pediatric population has increased. Development of an implantable device specific to these populations includes unique challenges of anatomic placement and fixation.

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is the use of numerical methods and algorithms to solve and analyze problems involving fluid flow. CFD has become a standard tool when designing RBPs, as it can calculate pressure-flow characteristics for a given rotary impeller speed. Additionally, through calculation of shear forces, CFD can also predict hemocompatibility by means of constitutive equations derived from empirical data. Particle image velocimetry (PIV), also known as flow visualization, is an optical measurement technique used to obtain velocity in fluids, which can be employed experimentally to verify CFD-based predictions of flow field. PIV also permits more rapid investigation of the RBP operativing range and transient conditions than can be achieved with CFD due to computational requirements.

We have developed a RBP platform for chronic use with CFD to optimize hemodynamic performance. The miniaturized device includes unique inlet geometry with a rotating impeller and a vaned-diffuser in a 7mm axial hydraulic diameter. The design scheme separates the bearing and motor region from the primary flow path to further improve hemocompatibility and reduce the pump size without compromising the hydraulic capacity.

Here we report CFD and PIV results of our device geometry optimized for right-sided MCS.
Modeling of Differences Between Body Core and Forehead Temperatures Measured by Infrared Thermometers
Authors: Vesnovsky Oleg , Li Yiyong , Topoleski L. D. Timmie , Zhu Liang
Published: October 2017

In recent years, outbreaks of highly contagious diseases, like the Ebola virus, have motivated vigorous efforts to screen travelers entering the United States, especially at airports. Screening involves monitoring the body temperature of entering travelers, and blocking entry of those showing a fever, indicating a potential infection. Typically, screening is performed using commercially available non-contact infrared thermometers (NCITs). These thermometers require specific use protocols (e.g., working distances) to provide accurate results, which may not be followed by inspectors reluctant to approach potentially contagious travelers. Furthermore, the NCITs’ accuracy is based on an assumption that the NCIT readings from a forehead will predict the body core temperatures using a simple common one-size-fits-all correction offset. Unfortunately, the temperature detected on the forehead surface by an NCIT may not represent the true body core temperature, due to the changing conditions of the external environment and/or surface conditions of the forehead skin. It is not clear whether the correction factor is able to adjust to the thermal environment, or whether the surface condition of the forehead, including sweat and skin tone, affects the NCIT readings.

Before a clinical study is conducted to understand the differences between the forehead temperatures and the body core temperatures, a computational model to simulate temperature distribution inside and on the surface of the body is a cost-effective way to identify factors that influence the temperatures and to study the reasons for their deviations. The objectives of this study were to 1) develop a numerical whole-body model and perform computational heat transfer simulations of different body geometries and 2) perform parametric studies to evaluate the effect of environmental factors, such as air temperature and heat transfer coefficient, on the differences between the forehead temperature and body core temperature. This data can be used to evaluate correction factors or needed to use the measured forehead temperature to predict the body core temperature.
Design Implementation and Analysis of a Universal Lumbosacral Support Device to Prevent Low Back Pain in Motorized Two-Wheeler Riders
Authors: Pedaprolu Krishna , Rajput Satyam , Nageswaran Sharmila
Published: October 2017

According to National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), a division of National Institutes of Health (NIH), about 80% adults suffer from low back pain at some point in time and about 2 out of 10 people who are affected by acute low back pain develop chronic low back pain with persistent symptoms at one year [1]. Though in some cases, treatment does relieve chronic low back pain, but in other cases, pain persists despite treatment. Mostly, the lower back pain is of mechanical nature, i.e., disruption in the way the components of the back (the spine, muscle, intervertebral discs, and nerves) fit together and move. The causes of lower back pain can be imputed to various conditions such as sprains and strains, osteoarthritis, herniated discs, whiplash, compression fracture, scoliosis, stenosis, inflammation of joints, osteoporosis. It not only causes pain, but also severs the economy of a nation. It is a major contributor to missed workdays [1]. Research indicates that the total indirect costs due to back pain accrue to more than $100 billion annually [2]. Not many people can afford traveling by car or taxi to office, especially in developing countries and in cities with high traffic, where people prefer to travel by two-wheelers for their access to work and other amenities. However, people with lumbar problems are recommended not to use two-wheelers as the movement of the body on uneven roads or while braking/accelerating may increase the pain and discomfort. This reduces the productivity of not only the individual and the firm but also the productivity of the country as a whole.
A Computational Approach Using Surface-Based Cohesive Behavior to Study Tissue Cutting With Rotation in Vacuum-Assisted Biopsy
Authors: Lan Guan-Jhong , Lin Chi-Lun
Published: October 2017

Vacuum-assisted biopsy (VAB) is a widely used technology to sample lesion tissue for breast cancer diagnosis. The technology is designed to retrieve tougher and larger breast tissue samples.

The majority of VAB tools utilize a so-called rotational cutting method, in which the cutting needle simultaneously rotates and translates to produce both tangential and normal forces at the cutting surface of the tissue. The introduction of the tangential force can significantly reduce the cutting force measured in the axial direction. As a result, higher quality of tissue samples can be obtained as the samples are less deformed while being removed. The slice-push ratio, i.e. the ratio of the speed component parallel to the cutting edge to the speed component perpendicular to the cutting edge, was previously found to be the most important factor to influence the cutting force [1]. However, these studies only investigated the cases in low translational cutting speeds in a small-scale experiment.

In this paper, we present a finite element (FE) model based on surface-based cohesive behavior, which simulates the rotational cutting method used in VAB to predict the progressive damage and the cutting force of soft tissue phantoms. The model is validated using the experimental data provided in the previous study [1]. The validated model will allow us to explore more cutting conditions, such as higher translational speeds, larger range of slice-push ratio, and tissue properties. The model can also be used to optimize design parameters of current VAB needles and to evaluate new VAB needle designs.
Evaluation of Aerosol Leakage Sites Through Respirators Using Image-Based Modeling
Authors: D’Souza Gavin A. , Guha Suvajyoti , Myers Matthew R. , Hariharan Prasanna
Published: October 2017

Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as respirators will form the first line of defense in the event of a public health emergency including an airborne pandemic or a bio-terror attack. The two major pathways by which virus-carrying aerosols can reach the human lungs through these PPEs are: a) the intrinsic penetration through porous layers of the PPE and b) the leakage through gaps between the PPE and a person’s face [1, 2]. The contribution from the second pathway can be significantly reduced using fit-testing i.e. by choosing the appropriately sized respirator for a specific face. Unfortunately, in case of an emergency, it would not be possible to fit-test the entire US population. In this scenario, excessive leakage can occur through the gaps. [1]. Hence, it is critical to identify the potential anatomical leak sites (gaps) and quantify the amount of aerosol leakage through surgical respirators for the average US population.

At the behest of Office of Counterterrorism and Emerging Threats, the Center for Devices and Radiological Health, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has been developing a comprehensive risk assessment model for determining the risk to different populations in case of an “off-label” use of such PPEs, i.e. for public emergency scenarios for which these FDA cleared respirators were not intended to be used. In order to develop the risk assessment model, establishing a correlation between the respirator gaps and aerosol leakage between the face and the respirator is critical. A previous study [3] identified the gaps of N95 surgical respirators for a large population and quantified the aerosol leak using computational fluid dynamics. However, the gap surface area, which is a key parameter required for establishing the gap-aerosol leak correlation, has not been quantified before.

In this study, gaps were identified and the gap surface areas were quantified for multiple head-respirator combinations under realistic conditions using imaging coupled with computer-aided design and modeling.
Validation of Feedback Control Approach for an Implantable Limb Lengthening Device
Authors: Zhang Bolun , Farley Daniel , Ploeg Heidi-Lynn , Zinn Michael
Published: October 2017

Lower limb length discrepancy (LLD), defined by unequal length of paired lower limbs, contributes to lower back pain, osteoarthritis of the hip, and stress fractures [1–3]. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that there were approximately 700 children born with LLD each year in US [4]. Patients may receive distraction osteogenesis treatment, in which an osteotomy is performed on the shorter limb, and mechanical force is applied to gradually distract the two halves of the bone during the healing process. This stretches the bone callus during healing to achieve desired limb length upon callus consolidation [5].

The current correction devices are external fixators that leave unsightly scars and are prone to infection [6]. While recently developed intramedullary devices address many of the persistent issues with external lengthening devices, size limitations and potential damage to the bone growth plates make them impractical for use in children [7, 8]. The proposed research addresses an unmet need by developing a novel implantable extramedullary device for LLD correction that is targeted for pediatric use. The device will be implantable, submuscular, and fixed to the outside surface of the bone (extramedullary), thus allowing for use in children without concern for injury to the growth plates. The device’s function will be similar to an external fixator; however, it will not require exposed hardware, which increases risk of infection, or muscle penetration from the pins, which causes pain. Additionally, the device incorporates real-time control of the distraction rate, reducing the risk of complications arising from fixed rate distraction such as premature consolidation and non-union of the callus. [9–11].

The investigators of this study have previously designed and constructed a distraction mechanism prototype and test frame [10]. The current study aims to validate the real-time controller of the prototype.
Using Smartphone-Based Virtual Reality to Explore Internal Anatomy of 3D Heart Models
Authors: Gaasedelen Erik , Deakyne Alex , Iles Tinen , Iaizzo Paul
Published: October 2017

The recent and rapid developments of immersive, interactive 3D environments have been critical in advancing interfaces for entertainment, design, and education. For cardiovascular research, our laboratory and others have been able to use such software tools for the construction of heart models from DICOM files. These models can then be printed in hard or soft plastic from a 3D printer. In general, such models are considered useful for surgical planning and education; these modalities are being applied as critical tools in the field of cardiovascular research.

Recently, the development of virtual reality (VR) has introduced a new modality for exploring 3D virtual structures with high resolution, high flexibility, and fast turn-around times. Until recently, the adoption of these technologies has been hindered by the high costs of VR goggles and the complexities in their setup. New developments in phone software and hardware, however, have alleviated some of these difficulties by allowing smartphone screens, graphics units, and gyroscopes to provide the necessary technologies for VR. In this way, phones can be placed inside a headset holder and used freely, without being connected to the computer.

Here we explore the utility of using this VR setup in the context of internal heart anatomy visualization.
Synthesis and Characterization of Radiopaque Shape Memory Polymers
Authors: Ezell Kendal , Nash Landon , Gordon Sonya , Maitland Duncan
Published: October 2017

An estimated 6 million people in the United States have an unruptured cerebral aneurysm [1]. If left untreated, these aneurysms can rupture and to lead to severe brain function impairment or even death. Shape memory polymer (SMP) foams have been proposed for use to optimize endovascular embolization in place of current embolization devices [2,3].

SMPs are capable of actuating from a programmed secondary geometry to their expanded primary geometry in response to a stimulus, such as body temperature [4]. The expanded foam geometry provides an interface for embolization of the aneurysm to occur, however, treatment with these devices has limited visibility under fluoroscopy.

Previous work by Hasan et al. increased radiopacity through the incorporation of tungsten (W) nanoparticles. These composite foams showed successful x-ray visibility, but aggregate disruption of the SMP matrix led to decreased mechanical properties [5].

This work addresses limitations of composite SMP foams, namely toughness, by chemically incorporating x-ray visible monomers, such as the triodobenzene containing monomer, 5-Amino-2,4,6-triiodoisophthalic acid (AT), into the material composition. These materials enable contrast agent loading without disrupting the polymer matrix. This polymer foam system was characterized to determine the clinical relevance of the improved radiopaque SMP foam for occlusion devices.
Robot for MRI-Guided Prostate Cancer Focal Laser Ablation
Authors: Tse Zion Tsz Ho , Xu Sheng , Squires Alexander , Chen Yue , Seifabadi Reza , Agrawal Harsh , Pinto Peter , Choyke Peter , Wood Bradford
Published: October 2017

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among males, leading to approximately 27,000 deaths in the United States [1]. Focal laser ablation (FLA) has been shown to be a promising approach for prostate cancer treatment with the advantage of efficiently ablating the cancer cells while inflicting less damage on the surrounding tissues. In current FLA procedures, a rigid template — with holes spacing of 5mm — guides the FLA catheter to the target position. Drawbacks of the conventional approach for catheter targeting are 1) limited degrees of freedom (DoF) and 2) a low insertion resolution. In addition, the targeting capability of the rigid template is compromised when the pubic arch or nerve bundles intersect the catheter trajectory. We hypothesized that a compact design of an MRI-conditional robot with two active planar DoFs, one passive rotation DoF, and remote catheter insertion capacities could enhance the clinical workflow required for MRI-guided FLA prostate procedures.
Design of a Portable Dynamic Calibration Instrument for daVinci Si Tools
Authors: Kong Nathan J. , Stephens Trevor K. , O’Neill John J. , Kowalewski Timothy M.
Published: October 2017

Tissue crush injuries are more prevalent with laparoscopic surgery than open [1]. Injuries may become more frequent in robotic surgery, because force is often only evaluated by the visual deformation of the tissue [2]. A proposed solution by Sie et al. to mitigate these surgical errors is to create tissue-aware graspers which can be incorporated into existing surgical robots, such as the da Vinci [3]. Stephens et al. created a tissue-aware grasper using backend sensing on a da Vinci Si tool [4]. However, tissue identification can be further improved through properly understanding a dynamic da Vinci tool model. Therefore, instrumentation that can accurately and fully characterize existing robotic tools is needed. Various tool calibration set-ups have been created such as [5], which are not portable and often neglect dynamic ranges. The goal of this paper is to present a portable device that shows promise in capturing the dynamic range for da Vinci Si tools.
Design of an Implantable Blood Pump for Mechanical Circulatory Support in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Snyder Trevor A. , Coghill Phillip , Azartash-Namin Kooroush , Wu Jingchun , Stanfield J. Ryan , Long James W.
Published: October 2017

While the use of pulsatile- and continuous-flow ventricular assist devices (VADs) has become widely accepted as an acceptable treatment for end-stage heart failure in adults over the last three decades, the technology development for pediatric-specific patients is lagging behind that of adult devices. Only one pulsatile-flow VAD has been approved for use in pediatric patients in the U.S., just five years ago [1]. One continuous-flow device was approved specific to this population under Humanitarian Device Exemption (HDE), but is not in clinical use today [2]. As continuous-flow rotary blood pumps (RBPs) have become commonplace for mechanical circulatory support (MCS) in adults due to smaller size and greater reliability, significant resources have gone into the development of RBPs for pediatric use [3]. Further, RBPs designed for adult MCS have been used off-label in pediatric patients [4]. Development of an implantable device specific to a pediatric population includes challenges of anatomic placement and fixation.

We have developed a RBP for adult MCS specific to right heart failure using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and flow visualization [5]. The miniaturized device includes a rotating impeller and a vaned-diffuser in a 7 mm axial hydraulic diameter. As seen in Figure 1, the hydrodynamic characteristics suitable for a right-VAD (RVAD) may also be suitable for pediatric patients. Currently, the only approved device is placed extracorporeal due to size constraints in the intended population [1]. This report shows results of computational simulations for anatomic fit and fluid flow studies of our device geometry in pediatric patients.
Safety and Feasibility of a Novel Gait Training Device Using a “Spacesuit” to Support Body Weight
Authors: Brenteson Charlotte , Hauck John , Wigness Bruce , Johnson Doug
Published: October 2017

In the U.S. alone, 7.5 million individuals have survived stroke, traumatic brain injury, and spinal cord injury, and over a million new patients are diagnosed every year [1]. Most of these patients will need gait rehabilitation. Body weight supported gait training is a widely used rehabilitation therapy to improve gait function [2]. Commonly, a physical therapist provides assistance using a gait belt to support the patient. Sometimes two or three therapists may be needed for severely impaired patients. Bodyweight supported treadmill training uses a harness attached to an overhead lift to support body weight [2], however harness systems often cause discomfort and may take significant time to set up and take down.

Lite Run Corporation has developed a system for the treatment of patients with gait and balance difficulties that uses differential air pressure inside a specially designed suit to reduce up to 50 percent of a patient’s body weight. The suit facilitates patient ambulation using technology like that in astronaut spacesuits to achieve comfort and flexibility. Potential benefits include longer therapy sessions due to greater comfort and greater unweighting, as well as the therapeutic benefits of being upright and walking for subjects unable to stand independently.

The suit is used in conjunction with the Gait Trainer device shown in Figure 1 which provides air pressure to the suit and support for the patient. Gait Trainer features include: 1) electro-mechanical and pneumatic controls to support the suit and patient when rising from sitting to standing and ambulating during therapy — so that a single therapist can safely transfer a patient from a wheelchair and practice gait therapy; 2) an open design that permits access to patient’s body and legs by the therapist; 3) a compact profile that provides easy maneuverability; 4) a “base spread” function that permits positioning close to a patient when seated in wheel chair, bed or therapy table. Together these features provide safety and stability for the patient and reduced physical burden on the therapist.

The objectives for the current study were to establish the safety and feasibility of the Gait Trainer, validate user design requirements, and to test the hypothesis that the rate of perceived exertion when using the device is significantly less than during unaided walking therapy.
Constitutive resistance to viral infection in human CD141
+
dendritic cells
Authors: Silvin Aymeric , Yu Chun I , Lahaye Xavier , Imperatore Francesco , Brault Jean-Baptiste , Cardinaud Sylvain , Becker Christian , Kwan Wing-Hong , Conrad Cécile , Maurin Mathieu , Goudot Christel , Marques-Ladeira Santy , Wang Yuanyuan , Pascual Virginia , Anguiano Esperanza , Albrecht Randy A. , Iannacone Matteo , García-Sastre Adolfo , Goud Bruno , Dalod Marc , Moris Arnaud , Merad Miriam , Palucka A. Karolina , Manel Nicolas
Published: October 2017

Specialized human dendritic cells that resist viral infection activate T cells by relying on bystander cells for antigen production. See the related Focus by Wong
et al
.
Quantitative single-molecule imaging of TLR4 reveals ligand-specific receptor dimerization
Authors: Krüger Carmen L. , Zeuner Marie-Theres , Cottrell Graeme S. , Widera Darius , Heilemann Mike
Published: October 2017

Superresolution imaging of the pattern recognition receptor TLR4 reveals how different ligands control receptor dimerization.
MARK3-mediated phosphorylation of ARHGEF2 couples microtubules to the actin cytoskeleton to establish cell polarity
Authors: Sandí María-José , Marshall Christopher B. , Balan Marc , Coyaud Étienne , Zhou Ming , Monson Daniel M. , Ishiyama Noboru , Chandrakumar Arun A. , La Rose José , Couzens Amber L. , Gingras Anne-Claude , Raught Brian , Xu Wei , Ikura Mitsuhiko , Morrison Deborah K. , Rottapel Robert
Published: October 2017

A phosphorylation switch releases sequestered ARHGEF2 from microtubules, enabling actin remodeling and formation of three-dimensional cell structures.
Determining counselling communication strategies associated with successful quits in the National Health Service community pharmacy Stop Smoking programme in East London: a focused ethnography using recorded consultations
Authors: Rivas Carol , Sohanpal Ratna , MacNeill Virginia , Steed Liz , Edwards Elizabeth , Antao Laurence , Griffiths Chris , Eldridge Sandra , Taylor Stephanie , Walton Robert
Published: October 2017

Objectives

To determine communication strategies associated with smoking cessation in the National Health Service community pharmacy Stop Smoking programme.

Setting

11 community pharmacies in three inner east London boroughs.

Participants

9 stop smoking advisers and 16 pairs of smokers who either quit or did not quit at 4 weeks, matched on gender, ethnicity, age and smoking intensity.

Method

1–3 audio-recorded consultations between an adviser and each pair member over 5–6 weeks were analysed using a mixed-method approach. First a content analysis was based on deductive coding drawn from a theme-oriented discourse analysis approach and the Roter Interaction Analysis System. Core themes were identified through this quantification to explore in detail the qualitative differences and similarities between quitters and non-quitters.

Results

Quantitative analysis revealed advisers used a core set of counselling strategies that privileged the ‘voice of medicine’ and often omitted explicit motivational interviewing. Smokers tended to quit when these core strategies were augmented by supportive talk, clear permission for smokers to seek additional support from the adviser between consultations, encouragement for smokers to use willpower. The thematic analysis highlighted the choices made by advisers as to which strategies to adopt and the impacts on smokers. The first theme ‘Negotiating the smoker–adviser relationship’ referred to adviser judgements about the likelihood the smoker would quit. The second theme, ‘Roles of the adviser and smoker in the quit attempt’, focused on advisers’ counselling strategies, while the third theme, ‘Smoker and adviser misalignment on reasons for smoking, relapsing and quitting’, concerned inconsistencies in the implementation of National Centre for Smoking Cessation and Training recommendations.

Discussion

Advisers in community pharmacies should use the advantages of their familiarity with smokers to ensure appropriate delivery of patient-centred counselling strategies and reflect on the impact on their counselling of early judgements of smoker success.
Biosimilars already approved and in development
Authors: Dörner Thomas , Isaacs John , Gonçalves João , Azevedo Valderilio , Castañeda-Hernández Gilberto , Strohal Robert , McInnes Iain
Published: October 2017

As of mid-2017, 10 tumour necrosis factor inhibitors (four for etanercept and three each for adalimumab and infliximab) and a first rituximab biosimilar are on the market, and a considerable number more are in various stages of development. The clinical trials of biosimilars, which have included long term extensions, have used various designs to look at switching between originator and biosimilar products, with reassuring results for clinical practice. For the infliximab biosimilar CT-P13 in particular, several studies have examined non-medical switching in real world practice. The results suggest that switching does not compromise safety, efficacy, or immunogenicity. However, additional data from clinical and real world switching studies, especially of switching between two or more biosimilars, are needed, as is continuing pharmacovigilance with larger databases to fill remaining gaps in the evidence. As biosimilar development continues, innovations in formulation and drug delivery technology may become of increasing interest.
Considering biosimilar policy
Authors: Castañeda-Hernández Gilberto , Strohal Robert , Gonçalves João , Dörner Thomas , Azevedo Valderilio , Isaacs John , McInnes Iain
Published: October 2017

With the authorisation of an increasing number of biosimilars, and the prospect of multiple biosimilar switching, biosimilar naming and the importance of this for pharmacovigilance are coming into sharper focus. Current naming policies are not universal; neither are extrapolation criteria. Indeed, consideration of whether we can extrapolate information from one indication or disease to another continues to be a divisive topic. However, this is changing, as we strive for a more harmonised approach.

Such a unified approach will be needed when considering future strategies to follow for multiple biosimilar switching, especially so because there is currently no uniform policy regarding interchangeability, switching, and automatic substitution. In this multiple biosimilar setting, the question as to whether we can be confident to move across indications will be increasingly important. The cost of biosimilar switching also needs to be considered—biosimilar use may mean that patients need more training and medical visits, with associated administrative costs.

The biosimilars debate seems to be refocusing issues that have previously been extensively discussed but that have recently lost impetus, including the role of clinical pharmacology in internal medicine.
One Health in South Asia and its challenges in implementation from stakeholder perspective
Authors: Dahal Rojan , Upadhyay Atul , Ewald Benjamin
Published: October 2017

One Health is a concept which fosters collaborative relationships between human health, animal health and environmental health partners. Diseases are emerging and re‐emerging in South Asia due to poor sanitation, close proximity of people to livestock, deforestation, porous borders, climate change, changes in human behaviour and unhygienic food preparation and consumption practices. This review was completed in two stages. First, we conducted a review of peer‐reviewed literature and grey literature available in Google search engine related to One Health in four countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal). Second, we used a structured questionnaire completed by the key stakeholders working on One Health for the collection of information related to the challenges in implementing One Health. Most of the One Health activities in South Asia are determined by donor preferences. Bangladesh and India did considerable work in advancing One Health with limited support from the government agencies. Weak surveillance mechanisms, uncertain cost‐effectiveness of One Health compared with the existing approach, human resources and laboratory capacity are some of the factors hindering implementation of the One Health concept. Implementation of One Health is growing in the South Asia region with limited or no government acceptance. To institutionalise it, there is a need for leadership, government support and funding.
Pre-implantation alcohol exposure and developmental programming of FASD: an epigenetic perspective
Authors: Legault Lisa-Marie , Bertrand-Lehouillier Virginie , McGraw Serge
Published: October 2017

Exposure to alcohol during in-utero development can permanently change the developmental programming of physiological responses, thereby increasing the risk of neurological illnesses during childhood and later adverse health outcomes associated with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). There is an increasing body of evidence indicating that exposure to alcohol during gestation triggers lasting epigenetic alterations in offspring, long after the initial insult; together, these studies support the role of epigenetics in FASD etiology. However, we still have little information about how ethanol interferes with the fundamental epigenetic reprogramming wave (e.g., erasure and re-establishment of DNA methylation marks) that characterizes pre-implantation embryo development. This review examines key epigenetic processes that occur during pre-implantation development and especially focus on the current knowledge regarding how prenatal exposure to alcohol during this period could affect the developmental programming of the early stage pre-implantation embryo. We will also outline the current limitations of studies examining the in-vivo and in-vitro effects of alcohol exposure on embryos and underline the next critical steps to be taken if we want to better understand the implicated mechanisms to strengthen the translational potential for epigenetic markers for non-invasive early detection, and the treatment of newborns that have higher risk of developing FASD.
Chemically dependent mechanical properties of natural andesite rock fractures
Authors: Mohtarami E. , Baghbanan A. , Akbariforouz M. , Hashemolhosseini H. , Asadollahpour E.
Published: October 2017

Different engineering rock works are affected by chemical–mechanical coupling phenomena in rock mass. Friction, strength of fracture walls, shape of asperities, and roughness control hydraulic and mechanical behaviors of fractures, which are all affected by chemical solutions. In addition, the efficiency of some operations such as leaching depend on the fracture conductivity in a confined condition. To evaluate the effects of leaching agents on the mechanical and geometrical properties of andesite rock fractures, a set of laboratory-scale experiments were conducted on three types of andesite in a sulfate medium with different pH values. Although the cohesion and shear strength reduced by decreasing the pH value, the roughness and shear stiffness of fractures did not follow a unique trend. Scanning electron microscope images indicated that the reason is mainly due to the selective chemical dissolution of the more reactive minerals in acidic solution. It is shown that fracture conductivity is a strong function of confining stress, asperities resistance, and aperture in such a way that confining pressure decreases the conductivity appreciably and the reduction rate depends on the mineralogy of fracture surfaces.
Screening of materials with high purity germanium detectors at the Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso
Authors: Laubenstein Matthias
Published: October 2017

The Gran Sasso National Laboratories (LNGS) of the National Institute of Nuclear Physics (INFN) are equipped with an underground ultra-low background facility namely the SubTErranean Low Level Assay (STELLA), which is in first line dedicated to material screening for the fundamental physics experiments installed in the underground laboratories. The high level of performance of the ultra-low-level detector systems allows for detecting extremely low radioactivity levels in materials down to the [Formula: see text] level. The installations and experimental setups using ultra-low background techniques will be described shortly, and an example of material screening will be discussed.
MoS2-wrapped microfiber-based multi-wavelength soliton fiber laser
Authors: Lu Feifei
Published: October 2017

The single-, dual- and triple-wavelength passively mode-locked erbium-doped fiber lasers are demonstrated with MoS2 and polarization-dependent isolator (PD-ISO). The saturable absorber is fabricated by wrapping an MoS2 around a microfiber. The intracavity PD-ISO acts as a wavelength-tunable filter with a polarization controller (PC) by adjusting the linear birefringence. Single-wavelength mode-locked fiber laser can self-start with suitable pump power. With appropriate PC state, dual- and triple-wavelength operations can be observed when gains at different wavelengths reach a balance. It is noteworthy that dual-wavelength pulses exhibiting peak and dip sidebands, respectively, are demonstrated in the experiment. The proposed simple and multi-wavelength all-fiber conventional soliton lasers could possess potential applications in numerous fields, such as sensors, THz generations and optical communications.
Origin of the Eukaryotic Cell
Authors: Lane Nick
Published: October 2017

All complex life on Earth is composed of ‘eukaryotic’ cells. Eukaryotes arose just once in 4 billion years, via an endosymbiosis — bacteria entered a simple host cell, evolving into mitochondria, the ‘powerhouses’ of complex cells. Mitochondria lost most of their genes, retaining only those needed for respiration, giving eukaryotes ‘multi-bacterial’ power without the costs of maintaining thousands of complete bacterial genomes. These energy savings supported a substantial expansion in nuclear genome size, and far more protein synthesis from each gene.
Role of Interface in Multilayered Composites under Irradiation: A Mathematical Investigation
Authors: Ortún-Palacios Jaime , Locci Antonio Mario , Fadda Sarah , Delogu Francesco , Cuesta-López Santiago
Published: October 2017

A continuum model of point-defects evolution during irradiation of a multilayer composite material is presented in this work. Nonstationary balance equations are used to describe production, recombination, transport, and annihilation, or removal, of vacancies and interstitials in a β-α-β three-layer system (α = Cu and β = Nb, V, or Ni). In addition, transport and trapping of point-defects at interfaces are taken into account. Numerical investigation on similarities and differences between Cu/Nb, Cu/V, and Cu/Ni systems is also performed. A general comparison of model results reveals that average vacancy concentration is typically higher than SIA one in both layers for all the systems investigated. This is a consequence of the higher diffusion rate of SIAs with respect to vacancies. Stationary state is reached without saturating interface point-defect traps by all systems but Cu/Ni for the case of SIAs. It can be also seen that Cu/Nb and Cu/V systems have a very similar behavior regarding point-defect temporal evolution in copper (layer α), while higher SIA concentration at steady state is shown therein by the Cu/Ni structure. Moreover, Cu/V system displays the lower stationary vacancy concentration in layer β.
The Internet Use for Health Information Seeking among Ghanaian University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Osei Asibey Benedict , Agyemang Seth , Boakye Dankwah Augustina
Published: October 2017

The aim of the study was to investigate university students’ use of the Internet for health purpose in the Ghanaian context. The study employed a quantitative cross-sectional design. A total of 650 out of 740 students selected from 3 different universities participated, giving a response rate of 87.7% (650/740). Data were obtained using questionnaires and frequency and percentages were used to analyze data. The results show that university students are active users of the Internet as 78.3% (509/650) used Internet daily and 67.7% (440/650) use Internet for health purposes, for reasons including availability and ease of accessing information, privacy, confidentiality, and affordability. Use of Internet was constrained by unreliable and slow connection, high cost of Internet, and unreliable power supply. Also, 72.4% (315/435) used the online health information obtained as a basis for lifestyle change and only 39.5% (170/430) consulted health professionals after obtaining online information. The study concludes that students use Internet to seek online health support. The use of Internet to communicate with young people in relation to their health must therefore be explored. There is the need to be aware of online safety issues for young adults, including the need to provide information on privacy options.
Fecal Calprotectin: A Reliable Predictor of Mucosal Healing after Treatment for Active Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Kristensen Vendel , Røseth Arne , Ahmad Tahir , Skar Viggo , Moum Bjørn
Published: October 2017

Objectives. Mucosal healing has become the new goal of treatment in ulcerative colitis. Fecal calprotectin has been demonstrated to differentiate between mucosal inflammation and mucosal healing. With this project, we investigated whether a reduction in f-calprotectin to <250 μg/g after medical treatment for active ulcerative colitis could predict mucosal healing. Material and Methods. After a baseline colonoscopy, 20 patients with active ulcerative colitis were followed with consecutive fecal calprotectin monthly until two measurements of fecal calprotectin < 250 μg/g or a maximum follow-up of 12 months. A flexible sigmoidoscopy was then performed and Mayo endoscopic subscore was used to evaluate degree of inflammation. Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index was used for evaluation of clinical disease activity. Results. A total of 16 patients achieved fecal calprotectin < 250 μg/g during follow-up, and all 16 patients had endoscopic mucosal healing (Mayo endoscopic subscore of ≤1) on the second endoscopy. The remaining four patients had persistently high f-calprotectin levels before the second endoscopy with Mayo endoscopic subscore corresponding to endoscopic mucosal healing in three out of four patients. Conclusions. Fecal calprotectin <250 μg/g after medical treatment for active ulcerative colitis is a reliable marker of endoscopic mucosal healing.
Modulation Effects of Cordycepin on Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels in Rat Hippocampal CA1 Pyramidal Neurons in the Presence/Absence of Oxygen
Authors: Liu Zhi-Bin , Liu Chao , Zeng Bin , Huang Li-Ping , Yao Li-Hua
Published: October 2017

Our previous study revealed that cordycepin features important neuroprotective effects against hypoxic insult by improvement of neuronal electrophysiological function. Modulation on voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) in CA1 neurons is the initial event during hypoxia/ischemia. However, no study comprehensively investigated cordycepin on VGSC. Hence, this study investigated modulation effects of cordycepin on VGSC not only in oxygen physiological conditions but also in acute oxygen deprivation injury conditions. Results revealed that cordycepin (80 μM) reduced the amplitude of VGSC currents (INa) (77.6% of control, p<0.01) within 1 min of drug exposure coupled with a negative shift in steady-state inactivation and prolonged recovery time course from inactivation. Additionally, this mild reduction on the peak of INa induced by the pretreatment with cordycepin can attenuate and delay the following hypoxia causing rapid dramatic decrease in INa with no additive change in the voltage dependence of inactivation. As modulation on VGSC in CA1 neurons represents the initial event during ischemia, we propose that suppression effect of cordycepin on VGSC is an important neuronal protective mechanism that may enhance neuronal tolerance to acute oxygen deprivation and delay hypoxia-induced neuronal injuries.
King-Type Derivative-Free Iterative Families: Real and Memory Dynamics
Authors: Chicharro F. I. , Cordero A. , Torregrosa J. R. , Vassileva M. P.
Published: October 2017

A biparametric family of derivative-free optimal iterative methods of order four, for solving nonlinear equations, is presented. From the error equation of this class, different families of iterative schemes with memory can be designed increasing the order of convergence up to six. The real stability analysis of the biparametric family without memory is made on quadratic polynomials, finding areas in the parametric plane with good performance. Moreover, in order to study the real behavior of the parametric class with memory, we associate it with a discrete multidimensional dynamical system. By analyzing the fixed and critical points of its vectorial rational function, we can select those methods with best stability properties.
Application of Multi‐Attribute Value Theory to Improve Cargo Delivery Planning in Disaster Aftermath
Authors: Brandão Cavalcanti Luísa , Bergsten Mendes André , Tsugunobu Yoshida Yoshizaki Hugo
Published: October 2017

Although many Operational Research models have been applied to disaster response operations, few researchers aim at revealing Decision Makers’ goals or measuring their trade‐offs. This article uses a holistic Multi‐Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) method to elucidate what objectives to pursue and to create appropriate strategies for planning vital items delivery to victims. We propose a framework for applying a Multi‐Attribute Value Theory technique and test it with a humanitarian Decision Maker. The resulting mathematical model can be used to evaluate guidelines that make on‐field decisions easier, improving (or at least not compromising) their outcomes. Our contribution to the MCDA field includes the documentation of an alternative generation methodology.
On Solvability of Third-Order Operator Differential Equation with Parabolic Principal Part in Weighted Space
Authors: Aliev Araz R. , Mirzoev Sabir S. , Soylemezo Mustafa A.
Published: October 2017

Sufficient conditions are found for the correct and unique solvability of a class of third-order parabolic operator differential equations, whose principal parts have multiple characteristics, in a Sobolev-type space with exponential weight. The estimates for the norms of intermediate derivative operators are obtained and the relationship between these estimates and solvability conditions is established. Besides, the connection is found between the order of exponential weight and the lower bound for the spectrum of abstract operator appearing in the principal part of the equation.