bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Holeboard discrimination learning in mice
Authors: Kuc K. A. , Gregersen B. M. , Gannon K. S. , Dodart J.‐C.
Published: September 2005

We have adapted to mice a holeboard‐learning task, which allows simultaneous assessment of spatial working and reference‐memory performance. The holeboard apparatus consists of an open‐field chamber with a 16‐hole floor insert. Across trials, animals have to learn that the same four holes of 16 are always baited. Here, we show that C57BL/6 mice readily acquire this task within 4 days when submitted to six trials per day or within 8 days when submitted to only four trials per day. We also show that C57BL/6, Swiss–Webster, CD‐1 and DBA/2 mice acquire this task similarly, despite the fact that some differences could be observed in measures of exploratory activity during habituation and training. Moreover, the muscarinic antagonist scopolamine disrupts learning at doses of 0.1 and 1.0 mg/kg, although the highest dose appeared to have side‐effects. Lastly, we found that amyloid precursor protein transgenic mice have a selective disruption in their working‐memory performance only during reversal training (i.e. after a change in the configuration of the baited holes). Overall, our data indicate that this spatial learning task is well adapted to mice and will be useful to characterize spatial memory in various genetic or pharmacological mouse models.
Wild mouse open field behavior is embedded within the multidimensional data space spanned by laboratory inbred strains
Authors: Fonio E. , Benjamini Y. , Sakov A. , Golani I.
Published: September 2005

The vast majority of studies on mouse behavior are performed on laboratory mouse strains (Mus laboratorius), while studies of wild‐mouse behavior are relatively rare. An interesting question is the relationship between the phenotypes ofM. laboratoriusand the phenotypes of their wild ancestors. It is commonly believed, often in the absence of hard evidence, that the behavior of wild mice exceeds by far, in terms of repertoire richness, magnitude of variables and variability of behavioral measures, the behavior of the classical inbred strains. Having phenotyped the open field behavior (OF) of eight of the commonly used laboratory inbred strains, two wild‐derived strains and a group of first‐generation‐in‐captivity local wild mice (Mus musculus domesticus), we show that contrary to common belief, wild‐mouse OF behavior is moderate, both in terms of end‐point values and in terms of their variability, being embedded within the multidimensional data space spanned by laboratory inbred strains. The implication could be that whereas natural selection favors moderate locomotor behavior in wild mice, the inbreeding process tends to generate in mice, in some of the features, extreme and more variable behavior.
Investigation of A218C tryptophan hydroxylase polymorphism: association with familial suicide behavior and proband's suicide attempt characteristics
Authors: Viana M. M. , De Marco L. A. , Boson W. L. , Romano‐Silva M. A. , Corrêa H.
Published: September 2005

According to WHO, suicide accounts for about 1 000 000 deaths worldwide every year. In view of these dramatic data, several studies have tried to identify possible biological mechanisms and markers of suicide. Genes encoding for proteins involved in the serotonergic transmission are major candidates in association studies of suicidal behavior. The gene that codes for tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH), the rate‐limiting enzyme in the biosynthesis of serotonin, is one of these candidates. Two polymorphisms in intron 7 of this gene (A218C and A779C) have been described, but their role in suicidal behavior remains uncertain. TPH A218C polymorphism was analyzed in a sample of 248 psychiatric patients and 63 healthy controls. In addition, at least one close relative member was interviewed to assess family suicidal behavior history. Our research confirmed that a positive history of suicide attempts in a family member is associated with the chance of an individual to attempt suicide. Furthermore, we demonstrated that familial suicide attempts are more lethal and frequently more violent. We were not able to find significant differences of the TPH genotype frequencies between patients and controls. The TPH A218C genotypes were not associated with a history of suicide attempt and the lethality of the most lethal lifetime suicide attempt and suicide attempt method. The authors conclude that the A218C polymorphism of the TPH gene may not be a susceptibility factor for suicidal behavior in this group of psychiatric patients but confirm that a family suicidal behavior history increases the proband's suicide attempt risk.
Replication of Small Effect Quantitative Trait Loci for Behavioral Traits Facilitated by Estimation of Effect Size from Independent Cohorts
Authors: Bennett B. , Carosone‐Link P.
Published: September 2005

Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping is often done in a single segregating population, such as a backcross or an intercross. Both QTL location and effect size are then estimated from the same dataset. This approach results in an over‐estimate of effect size for two reasons: (1) LOD scores, which are maximized over numerous point‐wise tests, are correlated with estimated effect size and (2) small effect QTLs are often undetected in underpowered experiments, yielding inflated effect sizes for detected QTLs (the Beavis effect). When it is impractical to maintain or generate large population sizes, an alternative is to use two populations, one for initial detection and localization and a second for a locus‐matched estimate of effect size, not conditioned on significance. Recombinant inbred (RI) panels are eminently suitable for this approach, as each strain genotype can be sampled repeatedly. We present mapping results from the LXS RI panel for two behavioral phenotypes relating to ethanol response: low‐dose ethanol activation and loss of righting following high‐dose injection. Both the phenotypes were measured in two or three independent cohorts, which were then used to re‐estimate effect size. Many small‐effect QTLs replicated using this approach, but in all cases, effect size, in the replicate cohorts, was reduced from the initial estimate, often substantially. Such a reduction will have important consequences for power analyses in which sample sizes are determined for subsequent confirmation studies.
Anxiety and panic responses to a predator in male and female Ts65Dn mice, a model for Down syndrome
Authors: Martínez‐Cué C. , Rueda N. , García E. , Flórez J.
Published: September 2005

Hyperactivity is a feature frequently reported in behavioral studies on the Ts65Dn (TS) mouse, the most widely accepted model of Down syndrome, when tested in anxiety‐provoking situations such as the plus‐maze and the open‐field tests. Although this behavior could be considered as an expression of reduced anxiety, it has been considered as a consequence of a lack of behavioral inhibition and/or reduced attention. This study addressed anxiety and panic behavior of male and female TS mice by evaluating serum biochemical parameters and behavioral responses to a predator in the Mouse Defense Test Battery. Flight, risk assessment, defensive threat/attack and escape attempts were measured during and after rat confrontation. When confronted to a rat, male TS mice showed similar biochemical and behavioral responses as control mice. However, female control and TS mice presented lower serum adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) levels under basal conditions and higher corticosterone levels after predator exposure than male mice. Thus, there was a larger increase in ACTH and corticosterone levels after predator exposure with respect to the undisturbed condition in females than in males. In addition, TS females showed some alterations in defensive behaviors after predator exposure. The results emphasize the need to consider gender as a confounding factor in the behavioral assessment of TS mice.
Abortive translation caused by peptidyl‐tRNA drop‐off at NGG codons in the early coding region of mRNA
Authors: de Valdivia Ernesto I. Gonzalez , Isaksson Leif A.
Published: October 2005

In Escherichia coli the codons CGG, AGG, UGG or GGG (NGG codons) but not GGN or GNG (where N is non‐G) are associated with low expression of a reporter gene, if located at positions +2 to +5. Induction of a lacZ reporter gene with any one of the NGG codons at position +2 to +5 does not influence growth of a normal strain, but growth of a strain with a defective peptidyl‐tRNA hydrolase (Pth) enzyme is inhibited. The same codons, if placed at position +7, did not give this effect. Other codons, such as CGU and AGA, at location +2 to +5, did not give any growth inhibition of either the wild‐type or the mutant strain. The inhibitory effect on the pth mutant strain by NGG codons at location +5 was suppressed by overexpression of the Pth enzyme from a plasmid. However, the overexpression of cognate tRNAs for AGG or GGG did not rescue from the growth inhibition associated with these codons early in the induced model gene. The data suggest that the NGG codons trigger peptidyl‐tRNA drop‐off if located at early coding positions in mRNA, thereby strongly reducing gene expression. This does not happen if these codons are located further down in the mRNA at position +7, or later.
The effect of applied sulphur on the growth, grain yield and control of powdery mildew in spring wheat
Authors: Hussain Z. , Leitch M.H.
Published: September 2005

During the years 1998 and 1999, two field experiments were conducted at the University of Wales, Aberystwyth, UK, to test the effects of soil‐ and foliar‐applied sulphur (S) in spring wheat. S was applied at 0, 20, 40, 60 kg ha−1 in 1998 and at 60 kg ha−1 in 1999, using CaSO4 as a source for the soil application and micronised S (Thiovit, 80%), with and without an organosilicone adjuvant, as a source for the foliar application. Senescence was retarded and grain yield was increased in 1998, following application of foliar S in conjunction with the organosilicone adjuvant. Application of foliar S was associated with a reduction in the level of mildew (Erysiphe graminis) recorded on the upper leaves and ears of the canopy. In 1999, grain yield was unaffected by treatments. A low level of mildew in the crop, particularly on the ears, is thought to be the reason for the lack of response in spite of the fact that senescence was retarded with foliar S application. A combined application of foliar S and commercial fungicide (cyproconazole) to the crop appeared to be more effective at controlling mildew than either S or fungicide applied alone. The study shows that there may be a role for S in a low‐input/organic wheat production system, where there is a need to reduce artificial inputs.
Are cuttings suitable for assessing maturity type in potato (Solanum tuberosum)?
Authors: Struik P.C. , Visker M.H.P.W. , Pauwels J.B. , Colon L.T.
Published: September 2005

Two experiments were carried out to evaluate the potential of single‐node cuttings of potato (Solanum tuberosum) as a tool to assess genotypic differences in maturity type. Plants were exposed to different photoperiodic treatments (different photoperiods, different numbers of photoperiodic cycles), and cuttings were taken at different plant ages. Cuttings from early (and to a lesser extent also late) maturing varieties exposed to short photoperiods showed strong induction to tuberise, irrespective of plant age; the induction increased with an increase in the number of short photoperiodic cycles. The response of cuttings taken from early‐maturing varieties exposed to long photoperiods depended on plant age: cuttings showed stronger induction when mother plants were older; cuttings from late‐maturing varieties hardly tuberised after exposure to long photoperiods. The tuberisation of the cuttings did not depend on the length of the long photoperiod (18 or 24 h) or on the number of cycles of a photoperiod of 18 h. Tuberisation on cuttings did not properly reflect the tuber formation on the mother plants, although within varieties, significant correlations between tuberisation on cuttings and tuber yield per plant 9 weeks after planting were found with different numbers of photoperiodic cycles of 12 h. Our experiments show that the cutting technique cannot be used on older plants to assess the maturity type of potato varieties, as there are interactions between photoperiod, genotype, plant age and number of photoperiodic cycles, in the reflection of the degree of induction to tuberise on single‐node cuttings.
Transgenic wheat: where do we stand after the first 12 years?
Authors: Shewry Jones P.R., H.D.
Published: September 2005

Wheat was among the last of the major crops to be transformed (in 1992), and transformation is still difficult, with a lower efficiency than that for maize and rice. However, the recent development of Agrobacterium‐based systems is set to improve the precision of the process, while new methods of selection, removal of unnecessary DNA sequences, gene targeting and in vivo mutagenesis will make the process cleaner and more acceptable to regulatory authorities and consumers. Our current work is focussed on using transformation to understand and manipulate aspects of grain processing quality, notably dough strength and texture for milling. However, it is clear that a major priority for future work will be to improve nutritional quality, including vitamin and mineral contents for the developing world and starch digestibility and dietary fibre content and composition for developed countries.
EFFECTS OF BLANCHING METHOD ON THE QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS OF FROZEN PEAS
Authors: LIN S. , BREWER M.S.
Published: September 2005

This study evaluated the effects of microwave blanching prior to freezing as an alternative pretreatment for frozen peas. Peas were blanched (steam‐, boiling water immersion‐, microwave‐ or microwave‐blanched in a bag), frozen and evaluated after 0, 6 and 12 weeks for moisture and ascorbic acid content, peroxidase activity, visual appearance and instrumental color, and after 6 and 12 weeks for aroma, flavor and texture. All blanch treatments reduced peroxidase activity by 97% compared with controls (unblanched); blanching methods did not differ. Steam blanching resulted in significantly better ascorbic acid retention than all other treatments; microwave blanch treatments were either equivalent to or better than boiling water immersion. Both microwave treatments darkened (L* value) peas. Microwave‐blanched peas were visually greener than other treatments, but their appearance was less intact. Aroma and flavor were similar among blanch treatments. Texture of boiling water immersed peas was similar to the two microwave treatments.
EFFECTS OF WATER STRESS ON THE PROXIMATE COMPOSITION AND MINERAL CONTENTS OF SEEDS OF TWO LUPINS (LUPINUS ALBUS AND LUPINUS MUTABILIS)
Authors: DE CARVALHO ISABEL MARIA MARQUES SARAIVA
Published: September 2005

Because mineral composition data for lupins subjected to water stress (ws) are incomplete, it is essential to analyze those seeds in order to assess the quality of potential food source for both human and animal nutrition. So, we have performed chemical proximate analysis and determined the mineral profile of seeds from two lupins subjected to ws period and compared with seeds from well‐watered (ww) plants. From the above results we can conclude that the values obtained fall within the range of values reported for both species (at ww conditions) and no significant (P > 0.05) differences were found in nutritional composition and mineral content between both lupins. Ws period was responsible for a significant increase in sugar, ash, both macroelements (Ca, Na, K, Mg) and microelements (Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu) as well as phytate content. The results obtained are relevant for selection of better mineral nutritive value of seeds from lupin species.
THE EFFECT OF GLASS SHAPE ON THE CONCENTRATION OF POLYPHENOLIC COMPOUNDS AND PERCEPTION OF MERLOT WINE
Authors: RUSSELL K. , ZIVANOVIC S. , MORRIS W.C. , PENFIELD M. , WEISS J.
Published: September 2005

Accepted opinion among wine connoisseurs is that size and shape of a glass used to serve wine can affect color and flavor of wine. Glass manufacturers and the wine industry could benefit from a greater understanding of the relationship between glass shape and wine appreciation. However, extensive oxidation may reduce antioxidative properties of polyphenolics that are highly prized in red wines. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of geometries of three glass types (Flute, Bordeaux, Martini) on sensory perception and concentration of polyphenolic compounds in Merlot wine as a function of time. Sensory evaluation was conducted with a 12‐member panel. Triangle tests were chosen to determine whether any difference in flavor could be perceived between samples stored for 0, 15 and 30 min in the three glass types. Phenolic compounds, gallic acid, caffeic acid, catechin and vanillin, were quantified using HPLC. Results indicated that the panelists could not perceive differences between wine served in different glasses even if it was exposed to air for 30 min at room temperature. Although concentration of phenolics, especially gallic acid, was affected by the exposure to air, changes were not profound enough to affect the sensory qualities of Merlot wine as judged by occasional wine drinkers.
HOT WATER TO CONTROL CODLING MOTH IN SWEET CHERRIES: EFFICACY AND QUALITY
Authors: DRAKE S.R. , HANSEN J.D. , ELFVING D.C. , TANG J. , WANG S.
Published: September 2005

Quarantine regulations require domestic cherries exported to Japan be treated to control for codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). The current procedure, methyl bromide fumigation, uses a restricted chemical, reduces fruit quality, and involves health, safety and environmental concerns. Single and double hot water dips were evaluated using fresh ‘Bing’ and ‘Sweetheart’ sweet cherries from Washington state as a potential replacement. The double dip procedure had a pretreatment bath at 40C for 5 min. For both procedures, submersions in heated water from 48 to 55C for 2–14 min were examined for treatment efficacy against third‐instar codling moth and fruit quality. Although a 100% mortality response was found for each temperature and procedure, the submersion durations significantly damaged fruit and stem parameters for both cultivars. Thus, hot water dips are not feasible for Pacific Northwest cherries at this time.
DETECTION OF INDICATOR ORGANISMS ON POULTRY CARCASS SITES IN AN ORGANIZED SLAUGHTERHOUSE
Authors: VAIDYA V.M. , PATURKAR A.M. , WASKAR V.S. , ZENDE R.J. , RAWOOL D.B.
Published: September 2005

A total of 144 swab samples were collected from poultry carcass sites, viz. neck, breast, wing and leg during various unit operations from an organized poultry slaughterhouse. The mean total viable counts (log cfu/cm

2
 ± SE) were 5.18 ± 0.09 after shackling; 5.24 ± 0.15 after bleeding; 3.95 ± 0.14 after scalding, defeathering and washing; 5.29 ± 0.15 after evisceration; 4.98 ± 0.17 after washing; and 4.22 ± 0.19 after chilling, respectively. The percent prevalence of indicator organisms, viz. enterococci, fecal coliforms, Clostridium spp. and Escherichia coli, was 24.41, 18.74, 13.88 and 14.57, respectively. Salmonella spp. could not be detected in any of the samples. Among operations, bleeding and evisceration were noted as critical. Legs showed the maximum level of contamination and high prevalence of indicator organisms, denoted as a critical site. Statistical analysis of data revealed that enterococci and fecal coliforms showed highly significant difference (P < 0.01), whereas Clostridium spp. and E. coli showed less difference (P < 0.05) between the unit operations. Proper monitoring of each unit operation is important for production of quality meat.
EFFECT OF A DIETARY PROBIOTIC ON SOME QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS OF RAW BROILER DRUMSTICKS AND BREAST MEAT
Authors: AKSU MUHAMMET İRFAN , KARAOǦLU MEVLÜT , ESENBUǦA NURİNİSA , KAYA MÜKERREM , MACİT MUHLİS , OCKERMAN H. WOOD
Published: September 2005

The effect of probiotics in broiler feeding was investigated by evaluating poultry carcass meat quality. Feeds supplemented with different levels of a probiotic (0.0, 0.1 and 0.2%) containing Saccharomyces cerevisiae (115‐Biogallinox) were used in feeding Ross 308 male chicks for 49 days. At the end of the trial period all broilers were sacrificed. After standard dissection of the carcasses, breasts and drumsticks were divided into two groups and vacuum or aerobically packaged than stored at 3 ± 0.5C for 12 days. The breasts and drumsticks were analyzed for pH, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), total mesophilic, total psychrotrophic, lactic acid and Enterobacteriaceae counts every two days during storage. The feeding of probiotic in broiler diets increased pH values of breast and drumstick (P < 0.01) but TBARS, total psychrotrophic bacteria and Enterobacteriaceae counts decreased (P < 0.01). It was determined that pH, TBARS and Enterobacteriaceae counts were lower in breast than drumstick (P < 0.05); but lactic acid bacterial count was higher (P < 0.05) in the drumstick samples. The pH, TBARS and bacterial counts increased during storage (P < 0.01) except for total mesophilic bacteria. The pH, TBARS, total aerobic psychrotrophic bacteria and Enterobacteriacea counts were lower in vacuum than in aerobically packaged samples (P < 0.05).
EFFECT OF HYDRODYNAMIC PRESSURE TREATMENT AND COOKING ON INACTIVATION OF ESCHERICHIA COLI O157:H7 IN BLADE‐TENDERIZED BEEF STEAKS†
Authors: PATEL J.R. , WILLIAMS‐CAMPBELL A.C. , LIU M.N. , SOLOMON M.B.
Published: September 2005

The efficacy of hydrodynamic pressure (HDP) treatment for inactivation of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in blade‐tenderized beef steaks was studied. Beef steaks (N = 48) were inoculated with a five‐strain cocktail of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and treated with blade tenderization (BT), HDP or a combination of BT followed by HDP (BTH). Control and treated steaks were cooked to 54.4C (undercooked), 62.8C (medium rare) and 71.1C (medium) on open‐hearth Farberware grills. HDP treatment reduced E. coli O157:H7 populations by 0.3 log10 cfu/g, which was not different (P > 0.05) from untreated controls. At each endpoint cooking temperature, E. coli O157:H7 survival was always higher in BT‐treated steaks than in untreated steaks cooked to corresponding temperatures. This could be due to migration of surface bacteria to the interior of the muscle thereby protecting bacteria from the lethality of heat. E. coli O157:H7 populations in BTH‐treated steaks cooked to 71.1C were nondetectable and were significantly different from BT‐treated steaks cooked to 71.1C. Results suggest that BT of intact beef muscle does transfer surface bacteria to the interior of the muscle, which would necessitate a combination of elevated cooking temperatures (>71.1C) and a treatment like HDP for inactivation of bacteria.
CRYOPROTECTANTS PRESERVE QUALITY OF RESTRUCTURED TROUT PRODUCTS FOLLOWING FREEZE–THAW CYCLING
Authors: JITTINANDANA S. , KENNEY P.B. , SLIDER S.D.
Published: September 2005

The cryoprotective action of 8% sucrose/sorbitol, 8% trehalose, 8% trehalose/sorbitol and 2% sodium lactate was measured in restructured trout products after 1, 3, 5, 10 and 15 freeze–thaw (FT) cycles (–20C; 8 h and 3C; 16 h). Sucrose/sorbitol, trehalose and trehalose/sorbitol minimized thaw loss and toughening of restructured products following FT cycling. Trehalose and trehalose/sorbitol have the potential to replace sucrose/sorbitol. Products containing sodium lactate were firmer and tougher, especially after three FT cycles, and this effect suggests that sodium lactate cannot be substituted for sucrose/sorbitol to stabilize protein denaturation that results from repeated freezing and thawing. Sodium lactate reduced bacterial growth and lipid oxidation, and it did not affect color of raw, restructured products.
An Improved Device for Posterior Rhinomanometry to Measure Nasal Resistance
Authors: Tiran Joseph , Ben-Oved Nir , Elvaiah Elan , Slovik Youval , Leiberman Alberto , Weisel-Eichler Aviva , Kaplan Daniel M.
Published: September 2005

Rhinomanometry is a method for measuring nasal resistance for the purpose of providing an objective evaluation of nasal patency. Posterior rhinomanometry is accomplished without the use of a mask, thus allowing the patient to breathe naturally. Here, we report on the improvements we have made to the existing posterior rhinomanometry system. In this system, nasal air flow is measured indirectly by measuring the pressure differential across a small mesh window in the body plethysmograph. We have calibrated this measurement and developed software that automatically provides the correct values for all airflow rates. Also, we have developed software that automatically corrects for the phase shift caused by the plethysmograph structure. These refinements should provide more accurate values for nasal resistance.
A Thin Film Nitinol Heart Valve
Authors: Stepan Lenka L. , Levi Daniel S. , Carman Gregory P.
Published: September 2005

In order to create a less thrombogenic heart valve with improved longevity, a prosthetic heart valve was developed using thin film nitinol (NiTi). A “butterfly” valve was constructed using a single, elliptical piece of thin film NiTi and a scaffold made from Teflon tubing and NiTi wire. Flow tests and pressure readings across the valve were performed in vitro in a pulsatile flow loop. Bio-corrosion experiments were conducted on untreated and passivated thin film nitinol. To determine the material’s in vivo biocompatibility, thin film nitinol was implanted in pigs using stents covered with thin film NiTi. Flow rates and pressure tracings across the valve were comparable to those through a commercially available 19 mm Perimount Edwards tissue valve. No signs of corrosion were present on thin film nitinol samples after immersion in Hank’s solution for one month. Finally, organ and tissue samples explanted from four pigs at 2, 3, 4, and 6 weeks after thin film NiTi implantation appeared without disease, and the thin film nitinol itself was without thrombus formation. Although long term testing is still necessary, thin film NiTi may be very well suited for use in artificial heart valves.
A Continuous Loading Apparatus for Measuring Three-dimensional Stiffness of Ankle-Foot Orthoses
Authors: Cappa Paolo , Patanè Fabrizio , Di Rosa Giuseppe
Published: September 2005

This paper describes a novel device to evaluate the mechanical properties of ankle foot orthoses (AFOs). The apparatus permits the application to AFOs of continuous three-dimensional (3D) movements between specified and settable endpoints. Using an x-y robot with a rotary stage and a six-component load cell, characteristic displacement versus reaction force curves can be generated and consequently the ankle moments can be determined as a function of dorsi/plantar flexion, inv/eversion and int/external rotation. Representative curves for two polypropylene lateral leaf AFOs, different in shape but produced for the same leg by a skilled orthotist, are presented to illustrate the capabilities of the novel testing system. The metrological investigation showed that the apparatus creates a highly repeatable data set (uncertainty ⩽1% FSO).
Detection of Heart Murmurs Using Wavelet Analysis and Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Andrisevic Nicholas , Ejaz Khaled , Rios-Gutierrez Fernando , Alba-Flores Rocio , Nordehn Glenn , Burns Stanley
Published: September 2005

This paper presents the algorithm and technical aspects of an intelligent diagnostic system for the detection of heart murmurs. The purpose of this research is to address the lack of effectively accurate cardiac auscultation present at the primary care physician office by development of an algorithm capable of operating within the hectic environment of the primary care office. The proposed algorithm consists of three main stages. First; denoising of input data (digital recordings of heart sounds), via Wavelet Packet Analysis. Second; input vector preparation through the use of Principal Component Analysis and block processing. Third; classification of the heart sound using an Artificial Neural Network. Initial testing revealed the intelligent diagnostic system can differentiate between normal healthy heart sounds and abnormal heart sounds (e.g., murmurs), with a specificity of 70.5% and a sensitivity of 64.7%.
Regression Techniques for the Prediction of Lower Limb Kinematics
Authors: Goulermas J. Y. , Howard D. , Nester C. J. , Jones R. K. , Ren L.
Published: September 2005

This work presents a novel and extensive investigation of mathematical regression techniques, for the prediction of laboratory-type kinematic measurements during human gait, from wearable measurement devices, such as gyroscopes and accelerometers. Specifically, we examine the hypothesis of predicting the segmental angles of the legs (left and right foot, shank and thighs), from rotational foot velocities and translational foot accelerations. This first investigation is based on kinematic data emulated from motion-capture laboratory equipment. We employ eight established regression algorithms with different properties, ranging from linear methods and neural networks with polynomial support and expanded nonlinearities, to radial basis functions, nearest neighbors and kernel density methods. Data from five gait cycles of eight subjects are used to perform both inter-subject and intra-subject assessments of the prediction capabilities of each algorithm, using cross-validation resampling methods. Regarding the algorithmic suitability to gait prediction, results strongly indicate that nonparametric methods, such as nearest neighbors and kernel density based, are particularly advantageous. Numerical results show high average prediction accuracy (ρ=0.98∕0.99,RMS=5.63°∕2.30°,MAD=4.43°∕1.52° for inter∕intra-subject testing). The presented work provides a promising and motivating investigation on the feasibility of cost-effective wearable devices used to acquire large volumes of data that are currently collected only from complex laboratory environments.
Numerical Validation of Linear Accelerometer Systems for the
Measurement of Head Kinematics
Authors: Cappa Paolo , Masia Lorenzo , Patanè Fabrizio
Published: September 2005

The purpose of this study was to analytically exploit the capabilities of head-mounted systems instrumented with linear accelerometers (ACs) for field use in redundant configurations. We simulated different headsets equipped with uni-, bi- or triaxial sensors with a number of axes that lie in the range of 12–24; the ACs were located on a hemispherical surface by adopting a priori criterion while their orientation was randomized. In addition, for a comparative purpose the nine accelerometer scheme (one triaxial AC and three biaxial ACs addressed in the following as “3-2-2-2 configuration”) was also analyzed in the present paper. We simulated and statistically assessed the performances of hemispherical headsets in the test case of a healthy subject walking freely at normal pace over level ground. The numerical results indicated that a well designed instrumented headset can retrieve the angular acceleration and (a0−g) component with rms errors of about 2% and 0.5%, respectively, and angular velocity with a drift error of about 20% in a 6s trial. On the contrary, the pose of the headset cannot be evaluated because of the drift induced by the integration process. In general, we can state that headsets with uni-, bi- or triaxial ACs have comparable performances. The main implications of the above-mentioned observations are (a) neither expensive triaxial ACs nor assembling procedure based on the use of orthogonal mounting blocks are needed; (b) redundant arrays of low-cost uni- or biaxial ACs can effectively be used to reach adequate performances in biomechanical studies where head acceleration and velocity are investigated; (c) while estimates of angular acceleration with accelerometers are accurate, estimations of angular velocities, linear velocities and pose are not.
Passive Wireless MEMS Microphones for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Sezen A. S. , Sivaramakrishnan S. , Hur S. , Rajamani R. , Robbins W. , Nelson B. J.
Published: September 2005

This paper introduces passive wireless telemetry based operation for high frequency acoustic sensors. The focus is on the development, fabrication, and evaluation of wireless, batteryless SAW-IDT MEMS microphones for biomedical applications. Due to the absence of batteries, the developed sensors are small and as a result of the batch manufacturing strategy are inexpensive which enables their utilization as disposable sensors. A pulse modulated surface acoustic wave interdigital transducer (SAW-IDT) based sensing strategy has been formulated. The sensing strategy relies on detecting the ac component of the acoustic pressure signal only and does not require calibration. The proposed sensing strategy has been successfully implemented on an in-house fabricated SAW-IDT sensor and a variable capacitor which mimics the impedance change of a capacitive microphone. Wireless telemetry distances of up to 5 centimeters have been achieved. A silicon MEMS microphone which will be used with the SAW-IDT device is being microfabricated and tested. The complete passive wireless sensor package will include the MEMS microphone wire-bonded on the SAW substrate and interrogated through an on-board antenna. This work on acoustic sensors breaks new ground by introducing high frequency (i.e., audio frequencies) sensor measurement utilizing SAW-IDT sensors. The developed sensors can be used for wireless monitoring of body sounds in a number of different applications, including monitoring breathing sounds in apnea patients, monitoring chest sounds after cardiac surgery, and for feedback sensing in compression (HFCC) vests used for respiratory ventilation. Another promising application is monitoring chest sounds in neonatal care units where the miniature sensors will minimize discomfort for the newborns.
A Motorized Microdrive for Recording of Neural Ensembles in Awake Behaving Rats
Authors: Venkateswaran R. , Boldt Chris , Parthasarathy J. , Ziaie B. , Erdman A. G. , Redish A. D.
Published: September 2005

The recording of neural ensembles in awake, behaving rats has been an extremely successful experimental paradigm, providing demonstrable scientific advances. Dynamic control of the position of the implanted electrodes is of key importance as mobile electrodes provide a better signal-to-noise ratio and a better cell/electrode yield than nonmobile electrodes. Here we describe the use of low cost, soon to be commercially available dc motors to successfully control the depth of electrodes. The prototype designed is approximately 30mm in diameter and 50mm in length and weighed about 30gms. This paper presents the results of linear displacements of electrodes achievable with this motorized microdrive.
Biomechanical Evaluation of a Novel Lumbosacral Axial Fixation Device
Authors: Ledet Eric H. , Tymeson Michael P. , Salerno Simon , Carl Allen L. , Cragg Andrew
Published: September 2005

Background: Interbody arthrodesis is employed in the lumbar spine to eliminate painful motion and achieve stability through bony fusion. Bone grafts, metal cages, composite spacers, and growth factors are available and can be placed through traditional open techniques or minimally invasively. Whether placed anteriorly, posteriorly, or laterally, insertion of these implants necessitates compromise of the anulus—an inherently destabilizing procedure. A new axial percutaneous approach to the lumbosacral spine has been described. Using this technique, vertical access to the lumbosacral spine is achieved percutaneously via the presacral space. An implant that can be placed across a motion segment without compromise to the anulus avoids surgical destabilization and may be advantageous for interbody arthrodesis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the in vitro biomechanical performance of the axial fixation rod, an anulus sparing, centrally placed interbody fusion implant for motion segment stabilization. Method of Approach: Twenty-four bovine lumbar motion segments were mechanically tested using an unconstrained flexibility protocol in sagittal and lateral bending, and torsion. Motion segments were also tested in axial compression. Each specimen was tested in an intact state, then drilled (simulating a transaxial approach to the lumbosacral spine), then with one of two axial fixation rods placed in the spine for stabilization. The range of motion, bending stiffness, and axial compressive stiffness were determined for each test condition. Results were compared to those previously reported for femoral ring allografts, bone dowels, BAK and BAK Proximity cages, Ray TFC, Brantigan ALIF and TLIF implants, the InFix Device, Danek TIBFD, single and double Harms cages, and Kaneda, Isola, and University plating systems. Results: While axial drilling of specimens had little effect on stiffness and range of motion, specimens implanted with the axial fixation rod exhibited significant increases in stiffness and decreases in range of motion relative to intact state. When compared to existing anterior, posterior, and interbody instrumentation, lateral and sagittal bending stiffness of the axial fixation rod exceeded that of all other interbody devices, while stiffness in extension and axial compression were comparable to plate and rod constructs. Torsional stiffness was comparable to other interbody constructs and slightly lower than plate and rod constructs. Conclusions: For stabilization of the L5-S1 motion segment, axial placement of implants offers potential benefits relative to traditional exposures. The preliminary biomechanical data from this study indicate that the axial fixation rod compares favorably to other devices and may be suitable to reduce pathologic motion at L5-S1, thus promoting bony fusion.
Simulated Bioprosthetic Heart Valve Deformation under Quasi-Static Loading
Authors: Sun Wei , Abad Ajay , Sacks Michael S.
Published: September 2005

For more than 40years, the replacement of diseased natural heart valves with prosthetic devices has dramatically extended the quality and length of the lives of millions of patients worldwide. However, bioprosthetic heart valves (BHV) continue to fail due to structural failure resulting from poor tissue durability and faulty design. Clearly, an in-depth understanding of the biomechanical behavior of BHV at both the tissue and functional prosthesis levels is essential to improving BHV design and to reduce rates of failure. In this study, we simulated quasi-static BHV leaflet deformation under 40, 80, and 120mmHg quasi-static transvalvular pressures. A Fung-elastic material model was used that incorporated material parameters and axes derived from actual leaflet biaxial tests and measured leaflet collagen fiber structure. Rigorous experimental validation of predicted leaflet strain field was used to validate the model results. An overall maximum discrepancy of 2.36% strain between the finite element (FE) results and experiment measurements was obtained, indicating good agreement between computed and measured major principal strains. Parametric studies utilizing the material parameter set from one leaflet for all three leaflets resulted in substantial variations in leaflet stress and strain distributions. This result suggests that utilization of actual leaflet material properties is essential for accurate BHV FE simulations. The present study also underscores the need for rigorous experimentation and accurate constitutive models in simulating BHV function and design.
High Capacity Implantable Data Recorders: System Design and Experience in Canines and Denning Black Bears
Authors: Laske Timothy G. , Harlow Henry J. , Werder Jon C. , Marshall Mark T. , Iaizzo Paul A.
Published: September 2005

Background: Implantable medical devices have increasingly large capacities for storing patient data as a diagnostic aid and to allow patient monitoring. Although these devices can store a significant amount of data, an increased ability for data storage was required for chronic monitoring in recent physiological studies. Method of Approach: Novel high capacity implantable data recorders were designed for use in advanced physiological studies of canines and free-ranging black bears. These hermitically sealed titanium encased recorders were chronically implanted and programmed to record intrabody broadband electrical activity to monitor electrocardiograms and electromyograms, and single-axis acceleration to document relative activities. Results: Changes in cardiac T-wave morphology were characterized in the canines over a 6month period, providing new physiological data for the design of algorithms and filtering schemes that could be employed to avoid inappropriate implantable defibrillator shocks. Unique characteristics of bear hibernation physiology were successfully identified in the black bears, including: heart rate, respiratory rate, gross body movement, and shiver. An unanticipated high rejection rate of these devices occurred in the bears, with five of six being externalized during the overwintering period, including two devices implanted in the peritoneal cavity. Conclusions: High capacity implantable data recorders were designed and utilized for the collection of long-term physiological data in both laboratory and extreme field environments. The devices described were programmable to accommodate the diverse research protocols. Additionally, we have described substantial differences in the response of two species to a common device. Variations in the foreign body response of different mammals must be identified and taken into consideration when choosing tissue-contacting materials in the application of biomedical technology to physiologic research.
Design and Simulation of a Pneumatic, Stored-energy, Hybrid Orthosis
for Gait Restoration
Authors: Durfee William K. , Rivard Adam
Published: September 2005

Loss of mobility due to lower limb paralysis is a common result of thoracic level spinal cord injury. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) can restore primitive gait in the vicinity of a wheelchair by using electrical stimulation to generate muscle contractions. A new concept for FES-assisted gait is presented that combines electrical stimulation with an orthosis that contains a fluid power system to store and transfer energy during the gait cycle. The energy storage orthosis (ESO) can be driven through a complete gait cycle using only stimulation of the quadriceps muscles. The conceptual design of the ESO was completed and implemented in a dynamic simulation model and in a benchtop prototype for engineering measurements. No studies were conducted with human subjects. The results demonstrate the potential of the ESO concept for a feasible gait-assist system and the validity of the simulation model as a means for designing the system.
A Light Weight Compliant Hand Mechanism With High Degrees of Freedom
Authors: Potratz Jason , Yang Jingzhou , Abdel-Malek Karim , Pitarch Esteban Peña , Grosland Nicole
Published: September 2005

This paper presents the design and prototyping of an inherently compliant lightweight hand mechanism. The hand mechanism itself has 15 degrees of freedom and five fingers. Although the degrees of freedom in each finger are coupled, reducing the number of independent degrees of freedom to 5, the 15 degrees of freedom of the hand could potentially be individually actuated. Each joint consists of a novel flexing mechanism that is based on the loading of a compression spring in the axial and transverse direction via a cable and conduit system. Currently, a bench top version of the prototype is being developed; the three joints of each finger are coupled together to simplify the control system. The current control scheme under investigation simulates a control scheme where myoelectric signals in the wrist flexor and extensor muscles are converted in to x and y coordinates on a control scheme chart. Static load-deformation analysis of finger segments is studied based on a 3-dimensional model without taking the stiffener into account, and the experiment validates the simulation.
Automated Knot Tying For Fixation in Minimally Invasive, Robot-Assisted Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Kuniholm J. F. , Buckner G. D. , Nifong W. , Orrico M.
Published: September 2005

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is perhaps the most significant worldwide health issue. While open-heart surgery remains the predominant treatment, significant advancements have been made in minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and minimally invasive robot-assisted (MIRA) surgery. MIRA techniques offer many advantages over open-heart procedures and have extended the capabilities of MIS. However, these benefits come at the cost of increased operating times due to time spent tying knots. The additional bypass time limits patient access and is the most significant barrier to the adoption of MIRA techniques. This research seeks to overcome this barrier by designing a device for MIRA cardiac procedures that automates the knotting of sutures. If this task can be automated while ensuring the delivery of high-quality knots, great progress can be made in transforming the field. MIRA cardiac procedures can move from novel procedures performed by a select group of surgeons on a limited pool of patients to a viable alternative available to the majority of patients with CVD. In this research we propose a design for a self-contained device that delivers a locking knot. Results suggest that consistent knots can be delivered at a time savings of 12.5% and 26.4% over manual knots for trained and untrained users of a surgical robot, respectively.
Design of a Multifunctional Compliant Instrument for Minimally Invasive Surgery
Authors: Frecker Mary I. , Powell Katherine M. , Haluck Randy
Published: September 2005

A new multifunctional compliant instrument has been designed for use in minimally invasive surgery. The instrument combines scissors and forceps into a single multifunctional device. The main advantage of using multifunctional instruments for minimally invasive surgery is that instrument exchanges can be reduced, thus reducing procedure time and risk of inadvertent tissue injury during instrument exchanges. In this paper, the length, width, and thickness of the multifunctional compliant mechanism tool tip is optimized to maximize the jaw opening and the grasping force. The optimized design is then modeled to simulate the stresses encountered in the scissors mode. A 5.0mm diameter stainless steel prototype is fabricated using electro-discharge machining and is shown to grasp and cut successfully.
Design and Application of Compliant Mechanisms for Surgical Tools
Authors: Kota S. , Lu K.-J. , Kreiner Z. , Trease B. , Arenas J. , Geiger J.
Published: September 2005

This paper introduces the benefits of exploiting elasticity in the engineering design of surgical tools, in general, and of minimally invasive procedures, in particular. Compliant mechanisms are jointless mechanisms that rely on elastic deformation to transmit forces and motion. The lack of traditional joints in these single-piece flexible structures offers many benefits, including the absence of wear debris, pinch points, crevices, and lubrication. Such systems are particularly amenable to embedded sensing for haptic feedback and embedded actuation with active-material actuators. The paper provides an overview of design synthesis methods developed at the Compliant Systems Design Laboratory and focuses specifically on surgical applications. Compliant systems have potential to integrate well within the constraints of laparoscopic procedures and telerobotic surgery. A load-path representation is used within a genetic algorithm to solve two gripper example problems. In addition, the paper illustrates the design and construction of an organ (kidney) manipulator for use in minimally invasive procedures.