bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of Ionized Hypercalcemia in 12 Cats (2006–2008) Using PO‐Administered Alendronate
Authors: Hardy B.T. , de Brito Galvao J.F. , Green T.A. , Braudaway S.R. , DiBartola S.P. , Lord L. , Chew D.J.
Published: January 2015

Background

Long‐term treatment of cats with ionized hypercalcemia using alendronate has not been evaluated.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Alendronate is well tolerated in treatment of ionized hypercalcemia in cats.

Animals

A total of 12 cats with ionized hypercalcemia.

Methods

Prospective study of 12 cats with ionized hypercalcemia of idiopathic origin was identified by telephone and email communication with a convenience sample of consulting veterinarians. Cats were treated with alendronate at a dose of 5–20 mg per feline PO q7d. Serum ionized calcium concentration (iCa) was measured before beginning treatment with alendronate, and after 1, 3, and 6 months of treatment. Alendronate dosage was adjusted according toiCa. Evaluation included physical examination, CBC, biochemistry profile, and diagnostic imaging. The owners and referring veterinarians were questioned about any observed adverse effects. The Wilcoxon matched‐pairs signed rank test was used to compare baselineiCa toiCa at different time periods.

Results

Alendronate treatment resulted in a decrease iniCa in all 12 cats. The median percentage change iniCa was −13.2%, −15.9%, and −18.1% (range, −29.6 to +7.6; −30.5 to −1.9; −45.8 to +1.5%) at the 1, 3, and 6 month time points, respectively. BaselineiCa was significantly different from 1 month (P = .0042), 3 months (P = .0005), and 6 months (P = .0015). No adverse effects were reported for any of the cats.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Alendronate was well tolerated and decreasediCa in most cats for the 6‐month period of observation.
How a haemosporidian parasite of bats gets around: the genetic structure of a parasite, vector and host compared
Authors: Witsenburg F. , Clément L. , López‐Baucells A. , Palmeirim J. , Pavlinić I. , Scaravelli D. , Ševčík M. , Dutoit L. , Salamin N. , Goudet J. , Christe P.
Published: January 2015

Parasite population structure is often thought to be largely shaped by that of its host. In the case of a parasite with a complex life cycle, two host species, each with their own patterns of demography and migration, spread the parasite. However, the population structure of the parasite is predicted to resemble only that of the most vagile host species. In this study, we tested this prediction in the context of a vector‐transmitted parasite. We sampled the haemosporidian parasite Polychromophilus melanipherus across its European range, together with its bat fly vector Nycteribia schmidlii and its host, the bent‐winged bat Miniopterus schreibersii. Based on microsatellite analyses, the wingless vector, and not the bat host, was identified as the least structured population and should therefore be considered the most vagile host. Genetic distance matrices were compared for all three species based on a mitochondrial DNA fragment. Both host and vector populations followed an isolation‐by‐distance pattern across the Mediterranean, but not the parasite. Mantel tests found no correlation between the parasite and either the host or vector populations. We therefore found no support for our hypothesis; the parasite population structure matched neither vector nor host. Instead, we propose a model where the parasite's gene flow is represented by the added effects of host and vector dispersal patterns.
Paternal epigenetic effects of population density on locust phase‐related characteristics associated with heat‐shock protein expression
Authors: Chen Bing , Li Shaoqin , Ren Qiang , Tong Xiwen , Zhang Xia , Kang Le
Published: January 2015

Many species exhibit transgenerational plasticity by which environmental cues experienced by either parent can be transmitted to their offspring, resulting in phenotypic variants in offspring to match ancestral environments. However, the manner by which paternal experiences affect offspring plasticity through epigenetic inheritance in animals generally remains unclear. In this study, we examined the transgenerational effects of population density on phase‐related traits in the migratory locust Locusta migratoria. Using an experimental design that explicitly controls genetic background, we found that the effects of crowd or isolation rearing on phase plasticity could be inherited to the offspring. The isolation of gregarious locusts resulted in reduced weight in offspring eggs and altered morphometric traits in hatchlings, whereas crowding of solitarious locusts exhibited opposite effects. The consequences of density changes were transmitted by both maternal and paternal inheritance, although the expression of paternal effects was not as pronounced as that of maternal effects. Prominent expression of heat‐shock proteins (Hsps), such as Hsp90, Hsp70 and Hsp20.6, could be triggered by density changes. Hsps were significantly upregulated upon crowding but downregulated upon isolation. The variation in parental Hsp expression was also transmitted to the offspring, in which the pattern of inheritance was consistent with that of phase characteristics. These results revealed a paternal effect on phase polyphenism and Hsp expression induced by population density, and defined a model system that could be used to study the paternal epigenetic inheritance of environmental changes.
Quality of life one year post‐Shiga toxin‐producing Escherichia coli O104 infection – A prospective cohort study
Authors: Riegel B. , Broicher W. , Wegscheider K. , Andresen V. , Brähler E. , Lohse A. W. , Löwe B.
Published: January 2015

Background

In 2011, a major outbreak of hemolytic‐uremic syndrome (HUS) and bloody diarrhea related to infections from Shiga toxin‐producing Escherichia coli O104 (STEC) occurred in Germany. While previous research has focused on the medical components of this disease, we aimed to investigate the course of health‐related quality of life (HrQoL) over 12 months including somatic and psychosocial risk factors. Furthermore, the influence of chronic fatigue (CF) on HrQoL was examined.

Methods

A prospective cohort study with n = 389 patients completing self‐report scales at baseline, after 6 months (participation rate: 79%) and after 12 months (participation rate: 77%). The courses of physical and mental HrQoL over the 12 month period were calculated by employing general linear mixed models.

Key Results

While the physical component score of HrQoL reached a score comparable to the general population, the mental component score remained below average 12 months after STEC infection. Female gender, prior psychiatric disorder, and prior traumatic events were risk factors for a worse HrQoL course after 12 months, while social support was identified to be protective. CF was associated with low HrQoL. In addition, the somatic symptom burden remained persistently high.

Conclusions & Inferences

Our results show high somatic and psychosocial burden in patients 12 months after STEC infection. We recommend considering the risk factors and protective factors of poor HrQoL early in the treatment of STEC or similar diseases. Patients who are suffering from persisting somatic symptoms, CF, and impaired HrQoL may require specific aftercare.
Association between health‐related quality of life and symptoms in patients with chronic constipation: an integrated analysis of three phase 3 trials of prucalopride
Authors: Tack J. , Camilleri M. , Dubois D. , Vandeplassche L. , Joseph A. , Kerstens R.
Published: January 2015

Background

Prucalopride is a high‐affinity 5‐HT4 receptor agonist for the treatment of chronic constipation. The aims of this study were to investigate the relationship between health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and symptoms of constipation, and to assess the response of HRQoL to treatment using integrated data from three phase III trials of prucalopride.

Methods

This was an integrated analysis of data from three pivotal multicenter, double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group trials (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifiers: NCT00488137, NCT00483886 and NCT00485940). Relationships were investigated between Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life (PAC‐QOL) scores, Patient Assessment of Constipation Symptoms (PAC‐SYM) scores, bowel movement frequency (assessed using daily diaries), and treatment.

Key Results

Patients treated with prucalopride 2 mg (n = 659) and placebo (n = 661) were included in the analysis. An improvement in PAC‐SYM scores correlated well with an improvement in PAC‐QOL overall score (r = 0.711) and satisfaction subscale score (r = 0.589). After 12 weeks, PAC‐QOL overall score and satisfaction subscale score significantly (p < 0.001) improved by ≥1 point (clinically relevant) in 36.5% and 44.1% of patients treated with prucalopride, compared with 18.5% and 22.4% with placebo respectively. Moreover, 39.0% of patients with an improvement in satisfaction of ≥1 point achieved ≥3 spontaneous complete bowel movements/week, compared with 7.4% of those with no improvement in satisfaction (<1 point).

Conclusions & Inferences

Improvements in PAC‐QOL overall score and satisfaction score were associated with improvements in symptoms of chronic constipation. Compared with placebo, treatment with prucalopride significantly improved HRQoL.
Autonomic nervous system dysregulation in irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Salvioli B. , Pellegatta G. , Malacarne M. , Pace F. , Malesci A. , Pagani M. , Lucini D.
Published: January 2015

Background

Autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulation may be altered in functional diseases, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but published data are not clear to date. The aim of the study was to analyze ANS function in IBS subjects classified by Rome III criteria and healthy controls using standardized technique.

Methods

ANS activity was evaluated by autoregressive spectral analysis of RR interval and systolic arterial pressure variabilities, to obtain indices of sympatho‐vagal modulation of the heart and of spontaneous cardiac baroreflex (α index). A symptom list was used to score 18 somatic complaints (score 0–180) (4SQ). Fatigue and stress were assessed through the use of a global scoring index (0–10).

Key Results

We enrolled 41 IBS subjects (29 F, age 40 ± 2 years) and 42 healthy matched controls. Heart rate was higher in IBS than control subjects (69 ± 2 vs 61 ± 1; p < 0.001). The total variance of RR interval variability, and α index, were significantly lower in IBS compared to controls (1983.12 ± 384.64 ms2 vs 4184.55 ± 649.59 ms2; 18.1 ± 2 ms/mmHg vs 29 ± 3 ms/mmHg; p < 0.01). The α index results showed an inverse correlation with stress scores and somatic symptoms.

Conclusions & Inferences

IBS subjects display a significant reduction in α index, an established marker of cardiac baroreflex. ANS dysfunction appears to be involved in the pathophysiology of IBS and its assessment may open new perspectives for clinical management of patients suffering from IBS.
Feeding ecology of the deep‐bodied fish Dapedium (Actinopterygii, Neopterygii) from the Sinemurian of Dorset, England
Authors: Smithwick Fiann M.
Published: January 2015

Reconstructing the feeding ecology of fossil fishes can be difficult, but new mechanical approaches enable reasonably reliable inferences by comparison with living forms. Here, the feeding ecology of one of the most iconic and abundant actinopterygians of the Early Jurassic, Dapedium, is explored through detailed anatomical study and functional analyses of jaw mechanics. Mathematical models derived from modern teleost functional morphology are applied, to ascertain the transmission of force through the jaws of Dapedium. A number of features not previously identified in the genus are described, and the dentition is described in full for the first time. The analysis of the functional morphology of Dapedium, in combination with its jaw anatomy and dentition, indicates that the genus was well adapted to a durophagous feeding habit, although indirect evidence suggests a more generalist feeding mode. Being a generalist durophage may explain the success of the genus in the aftermath of the end‐Triassic extinction event and its radiation in the Early Jurassic, as indicated by the ubiquity of Dapedium fossils throughout the Lower Lias.
Vulvodynia—An Evidence‐Based Literature Review and Proposed Treatment Algorithm
Authors: De Andres Jose , Sanchis‐Lopez Nerea , Asensio‐Samper Juan Marcos , Fabregat‐Cid Gustavo , Villanueva‐Perez Vicente L. , Monsalve Dolz Vicente , Minguez Ana
Published: January 2015

Objective

We searched the medical literature from the last 15 years (1998 to 2013) relating to the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of vulvodynia. The evidence was reviewed supporting the therapeutic proposals currently in use and propose the incorporation of novel, minimally invasive, interventional therapies, within the context of a multidisciplinary approach.

Methods

This was a systematic review of all relevant studies with no language restrictions. Studies were identified through Medline/PubMed (1998 to March 2013), the Cochrane Library (2001 to 2013), and conference records and book chapters. The keywords used included “chronic pelvic pain,” “vulvodynia,” “vestibulodynia,” and search terms “etiology,” “diagnosis,” and “treatment” were added. The levels of evidence were assessed using grading system for “Therapy/Prevention/Etiology/Harm” developed by the Centre for Evidence‐Based Medicine (CEBM). The grading system assists in clinical decision‐making, and we decided to use “The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE).”

Results

A total of 391 papers were assessed. Of these, 215 were analyzed and 175 were excluded, as they pertained to areas not directly related to the disease under review.

Conclusion

The optimal therapy for vulvar pain syndrome remains elusive, with low percentages of therapeutic success, using either local or systemic pharmacological approaches. Surgery involving invasive and often irreversible therapeutic procedures has resulted in success for certain subtypes of vulvodynia. We present a multidisciplinary approach whereby pain treatment units may provide an intermediate level of care between standard medical and surgical treatments.
Pain Assessment with Short Message Service and Interactive Voice Response in Outpatients with Cancer and Pain: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Besse Kees T. C. , Faber‐te Boveldt Nienke D. , Janssen Ge H. P. , Vernooij‐Dassen Myrra , Vissers Kris C. P. , Engels Yvonne
Published: January 2015

Background

Pain assessment and monitoring is a prerequisite for its adequate treatment in patients with cancer. We performed a feasibility study on the use of short message service (SMS) and interactive voice response (IVR) to improve pain management in patients with cancer, including terminally ill patients.

Methods

During 4 weeks, palliative patients received a daily IVR asking to provide their pain score on a numeric rating scale (NRS) with their mobile phone. If pain was moderate or high, the nurse contacted the patient the same day and, if required, adapted the treatment.

Results

Thirteen of the 17 invited patients agreed to participate (79%), four died during the study period. IVR/SMS provides a reliable assessment of the pain intensity, and if required, treatment can be rapidly adapted. All patients were satisfied with the intervention. There were no difficulties for the, mainly older, patients in handling this communication way on pain intensity. The mean pain score decreased from 4.78 to 3.33 (P = 0.07). The pain scale of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ‐C30) decreased significantly from 56 to 35 (P = 0.047).

Discussion

Monitoring and managing pain with IVR/SMS in patients with cancer at home appeared acceptable and feasible, even in terminally ill patients. The reluctance for actively contacting the professional in case of increased pain intensity is circumvented in this setting. Further research, preferably in a controlled study, is needed to establish the use of this intervention in a larger patient population.
Safety and Utility of Quantitative Sensory Testing among Adults with Sickle Cell Disease: Indicators of Neuropathic Pain?
Authors: Ezenwa Miriam O. , Molokie Robert E. , Wang Zaijie Jim , Yao Yingwei , Suarez Marie L. , Pullum Cherese , Schlaeger Judith M. , Fillingim Roger B. , Wilkie Diana J.
Published: January 2015

Objectives

Pain is the hallmark symptom of sickle cell disease (SCD), yet the types of pain that these patients experience, and the underlying mechanisms, have not been well characterized. The study purpose was to determine the safety and utility of a mechanical and thermal quantitative sensory testing (QST) protocol and the feasibility of utilizing neuropathic pain questionnaires among adults with SCD.

Methods

A convenience sample (N = 25, 18 women, mean age 38.5 ± 12.5 [20–58 years]) completed self‐report pain and quality‐of‐life tools. Subjects also underwent testing with the TSA‐II NeuroSensory Analyzer and calibrated von Frey microfilaments.

Results

We found that the QST protocol was safe and did not stimulate a SCD pain crisis. There was evidence of central sensitization (n = 15), peripheral sensitization (n = 1), a mix of central and peripheral sensitization (n = 8), or no sensitization (n = 1). The neuropathic pain self‐report tools were feasible with evidence of construct validity; 40% of the subjects reported S‐LANSS scores that were indicative of neuropathic pain and had evidence of central, peripheral or mixed sensitization.

Discussion

The QST protocol can be safely conducted in adults with SCD and provides evidence of central or peripheral sensitization, which is consistent with a neuropathic component to SCD pain. These findings are novel, warrant a larger confirmatory study, and indicate the need for normative QST data from African American adults and older adults.
Enhanced resistance to soybean cyst nematode Heterodera glycines in transgenic soybean by silencing putative CLE receptors
Authors: Guo Xiaoli , Chronis Demosthenis , De La Torre Carola M. , Smeda John , Wang Xiaohong , Mitchum Melissa G.
Published: January 2015

CLE peptides are small extracellular proteins important in regulating plant meristematic activity through the CLE‐receptor kinase‐WOX signalling module. Stem cell pools in the SAM (shoot apical meristem), RAM (root apical meristem) and vascular cambium are controlled by CLE signalling pathways. Interestingly, plant‐parasitic cyst nematodes secrete CLE‐like effector proteins, which act as ligand mimics of plant CLE peptides and are required for successful parasitism. Recently, we demonstrated that Arabidopsis CLE receptors CLAVATA1 (CLV1), the CLAVATA2 (CLV2)/CORYNE (CRN) heterodimer receptor complex and RECEPTOR‐LIKE PROTEIN KINASE 2 (RPK2), which transmit the CLV3 signal in the SAM, are required for perception of beet cyst nematode Heterodera schachtii CLEs. Reduction in nematode infection was observed in clv1, clv2, crn, rpk2 and combined double and triple mutants. In an effort to develop nematode resistance in an agriculturally important crop, orthologues of Arabidopsis receptors including CLV1, CLV2, CRN and RPK2 were identified from soybean, a host for the soybean cyst nematode Heterodera glycines. For each of the receptors, there are at least two paralogues in the soybean genome. Localization studies showed that most receptors are expressed in the root, but vary in their level of expression and spatial expression patterns. Expression in nematode‐induced feeding cells was also confirmed. In vitro direct binding of the soybean receptors with the HgCLE peptide was analysed. Knock‐down of the receptors in soybean hairy roots showed enhanced resistance to SCN. Our findings suggest that targeted disruption of nematode CLE signalling may be a potential means to engineer nematode resistance in crop plants.
Correlation Between Waist:Height Ratio and Serum Nitric Oxide Level in Children with Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Abdallah Wafaa I. , Abd El Maksoud Rania A. S. , Hashad Doaa I. , El Azhary Nesrine M. , Al Saied Abonayeem Shaimaa M.
Published: January 2015

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most common chronic inflammatory disease of early childhood. This study shows that nitric oxide levels positively correlate with the clinical severity of AD, waist:height ratio, and weight.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Cu2O/ZnO Nanoparticles at Present of Folic Acid to ImproveUV‐Protective Effect of Cotton Fabrics
Authors: Noorian Seyyed Abbas , Hemmatinejad Nahid , Bashari Azadeh
Published: January 2015

In this study, the effect of using folic acid on the in situ synthesis process of nanostructures has been investigated. Folic acid, as a biotemplate for synthesis of Cu2O/ZnO, was used to improve the reducing and stabilizing the ability of cotton fabric and avoid agglomeration of the particles. Scanning electron microscopy images revealed that using folic acid caused the formation of particles with smaller sizes on the cotton fabric and X‐ray diffraction confirmed the same crystalline pattern of nanoparticles in comparison with the previous synthesis process. The effect of using this biotemplate on different properties of treated fabrics includingUV‐protection effect, hydrophilicity, crease recovery angle, softness, thickness and mechanical properties has been evaluated. The folic acid had a great influence onUV‐protection effect, in synthesis procedure, decreasing the droplet absorption time, bending length and improving the wrinkle resistance and mechanical properties. Interestingly, the higher tensile strength of the treated cotton fabrics proved the incorporation of nanoparticles into the cotton fibers. An in situ, green and rapid method can be provided by using folic acid for the synthesis of the nanostructures with controlled size.
Toward a Comparative Measure of Climate Policy Output
Authors: Schaffrin André , Sewerin Sebastian , Seubert Sibylle
Published: January 2015

Comparative policy studies face a number of methodological challenges where conceptualization of the object of comparison—policy output—is the most fundamental. On the basis of three common approaches of the study of policy output, we reconsider this widely applied concept and propose a refined measure as a function of both density (number of policy instruments) and intensity (content of policy instruments). We theoretically derive six policy‐intensity measures (objectives, scope, integration, budget, implementation, and monitoring), which are used for weighting national policy instruments on an Index of Climate Policy Activity. The article presents an empirical application of this measurement approach. Focusing on national climate policy instruments in the energy production sector in Austria, Germany, and the United Kingdom, we investigate changes in the countries' policy portfolios from 1998 to 2010. The article demonstrates that our Index of Climate Policy Activity provides a reliable and valid measurement for national policy output that can be applied for comparative analyses of policy output.
Time‐frequency theta and delta measures index separable components of feedback processing in a gambling task
Authors: Bernat Edward M. , Nelson Lindsay D. , Baskin‐Sommers Arielle R.
Published: January 2015

Previous work using gambling tasks indicate that the feedback negativity (FN) reflects primary or salient stimulus attributes (often gain vs. loss), whereas the feedback‐P300 appears sensitive to secondary stimulus information. A recent time‐frequency approach has characterized separable theta (3–7 Hz) and delta (0–3 Hz) feedback processes, independently sensitive to primary feedback attributes, specifically loss and gain outcomes, respectively. The current study extends this time‐frequency work to evaluate both primary and secondary (relative outcome and outcome magnitude) feedback attributes. Consistent with previous reports, theta indexed an initial, lower‐level response sensitive to the primary (most salient) feedback attributes (specifically losses), while delta was sensitive to both primary attributes (specifically gains) and assessed secondary stimulus features.
Toward a post‐conflict Colombia: restoring to the future
Authors: Aguilar Mauricio , Sierra Jorge , Ramirez Wilson , Vargas Orlando , Calle Zoraida , Vargas William , Murcia Carolina , Aronson James , Barrera Cataño José I.
Published: January 2015

At an historic moment, when Colombia is emerging from 60 years of armed conflict, the 7‐year‐old Colombian Network for Ecological Restoration (Red Colombiana de Restauración Ecológica [REDCRE]) has created four subnational nodes, and is actively developing several more. All of this is taking place in the context of the Ibero‐American and Caribbean Society for Ecological Restoration (Sociedad Ibero‐Americana y del Caribe de la Restauración Ecológica [SIACRE]). In mid‐November 2014, over 200 representatives of government agencies, academia, private enterprises, and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) from the entire country attended a symposium to launch the Antioquia Province node, and take stock and plan the way forward. There are bright prospects of transdisciplinary and public–private collaborations in Colombia for ecological restoration and restoration of natural capital as part of a strategy to transition smoothly to a post‐conflict era. We suggest some goals and guidelines to help move forward an ambitious agenda to mainstream ecological restoration.
Poverty Elasticity: A Note on a New Empirical Approach
Authors: Figueiredo Erik , Laurini Márcio P.
Published: January 2015

This note proposes a non‐parametric estimation method controlled for endogeneity to calculate poverty elasticities for a panel of countries. Results show that usual linear estimates without control for endogeneity overestimate the growth elasticity of poverty.
Wishful Thinking: The Surprisingly Sparse Evidence for a Relationship between Oxidative Stress and Cardiovascular Disease in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Bossola Maurizio , Tazza Luigi
Published: January 2015

The increased frequency of cardiovascular disease observed in hemodialysis patients is secondary to the combination of many traditional (age, male sex, hypertension, smoking, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia) and novel and uremia‐related (inflammation, uremic toxins, adipokine imbalance, coagulation disorders, protein‐energy wasting, volume overload, endothelial dysfunction, hyperparathyroidism, and subclinical hypothyroidism) risk factors. Usually, in the latter group, oxidative stress is included. However, after decades of research, it remains essentially unknown if oxidative stress has a causative role in the development of cardiovascular disease in long‐term hemodialysis patients because adequate longitudinal studies are lacking. Data deriving from cross‐sectional studies suggest that biomarkers of oxidative stress are associated with cardiovascular disease prevalence. Conversely, conflicting and inconclusive results have been obtained on the association between oxidative stress and coronary artery calcification, atherosclerosis, and all‐cause and cardiovascular disease‐related outcome. It is desirable that further studies are conducted on this topic in the near future.
A case report of differentiating staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis by optical coherence tomography
Authors: Hussain A. A. , Banzhaf C. A. , Themstrup L. , Nielsen P. L. , Jemec G. B. E.
Published: January 2015

Background

Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) both present with acute onset, high morbidity and significant mortality. Rapid diagnosis is therefore of importance. The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the presentation of these diseases using optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Methods

Two male patients with bullous diseases, SSSS and TEN, respectively, were photographed digitally, examined using dermoscopy, OCT scanned and subsequently biopsied in the said order.

Results

The bullous skin was visualized by OCT showing two distinct images: the SSSS‐patient displayed superficial hyporefletive flaccid structures with a split high in the thickened (0.51 mm vs. 0.12 mm) epidermis while the TEN‐patient demonstrated a larger hyporeflective ovoid structure with a split right below the thickened epidermis (0.18 mm vs. 0.06 mm).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that there is a potential for the application of OCT scanning in the acute phase of SSSS and TEN in order to distinguish them for a faster diagnosis and better management and treatment.
Antiretroviral blood levels in HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients with cirrhosis after liver transplant: a report of three cases
Authors: Righi E. , Londero A. , Pea F. , Bonora S. , Nasta P. , Della Siega P. , Delle Foglie P. , Villa G. , Giglio O. , Dal Zoppo S. , Baccarani U. , Bassetti M.
Published: January 2015

Since the introduction of combined antiretroviral therapy, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is no longer a contraindication for solid organ transplantation. In HIV/hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐coinfected patients undergoing liver transplantation, HCV‐related cirrhosis, drug‐drug interactions, and calcineurin inhibitors‐related toxicity affect clinical outcomes. Therapeutic drug monitoring can be useful to assess antiretroviral over‐ or underexposure in this cohort. We report the clinical characteristics along with antiretroviral trough levels of maraviroc, darunavir, and etravirine in 3 HIV/HCV‐coinfected liver transplant recipients who developed post‐transplant liver cirrhosis.
Fluid shifts, vasodilatation and ambulatory blood pressure reduction during long duration spaceflight
Authors: Norsk Peter , Asmar Ali , Damgaard Morten , Christensen Niels Juel
Published: January 2015

Key points

Weightlessness in space induces initially an increase in stroke volume and cardiac output, accompanied by unchanged or slightly reduced blood pressure.

It is unclear whether these changes persist throughout months of flight.

Here, we show that cardiac output and stroke volume increase by 35–41% between 3 and 6 months on the International Space Station, which is more than during shorter flights.

Twenty‐four hour ambulatory brachial blood pressure is reduced by 8–10 mmHg by a decrease in systemic vascular resistance of 39%, which is not a result of the suppression of sympathetic nervous activity, and the nightly dip is maintained in space.

It remains a challenge to explore what causes the systemic vasodilatation leading to a reduction in blood pressure in space, and whether the unexpectedly high stroke volume and cardiac output can explain some vision acuity problems encountered by astronauts on the International Space Station.

Acute weightlessness in space induces a fluid shift leading to central volume expansion. Simultaneously, blood pressure is either unchanged or decreased slightly. Whether these effects persist for months in space is unclear. Twenty‐four hour ambulatory brachial arterial pressures were automatically recorded at 1–2 h intervals with portable equipment in eight male astronauts: once before launch, once between 85 and 192 days in space on the International Space Station and, finally, once at least 2 months after flight. During the same 24 h, cardiac output (rebreathing method) was measured two to five times (on the ground seated), and venous blood was sampled once (also seated on the ground) for determination of plasma catecholamine concentrations. The 24 h average systolic, diastolic and mean arterial pressures (mean ± se) in space were reduced by 8 ± 2 mmHg (P = 0.01; ANOVA), 9 ± 2 mmHg (P < 0.001) and 10 ± 3 mmHg (P = 0.006), respectively. The nightly blood pressure dip of 8 ± 3 mmHg (P = 0.015) was maintained. Cardiac stroke volume and output increased by 35 ± 10% and 41 ± 9% (P < 0.001); heart rate and catecholamine concentrations were unchanged; and systemic vascular resistance was reduced by 39 ± 4% (P < 0.001). The increase in cardiac stroke volume and output is more than previously observed during short duration flights and might be a precipitator for some of the vision problems encountered by the astronauts. The spaceflight vasodilatation mechanism needs to be explored further.
Folding Angle Regulation by Curved Crease Design for Self-Assembling Origami Propellers
Authors: Miyashita Shuhei , DiDio Isabella , Ananthabhotla Ishwarya , An Byoungkwon , Sung Cynthia , Arabagi Slava , Rus Daniela
Published: January 2015

This paper describes a method for manufacturing complex three-dimensional curved structures by self-folding layered materials. Our main focus is to first show that the material can cope with curved crease self-folding and then to utilize the curvature to predict the folding angles. The self-folding process employs uniform heat to induce self-folding of the material and shows the successful generation of several types of propellers as a proof of concept. We further show the resulting device is functional by demonstrating its levitation in the presence of a magnetic field applied remotely.
On Robust Control of Fractional Order Plants: Invariant Phase Margin
Authors: Hossein Basiri Mohammad , Saleh Tavazoei Mohammad
Published: January 2015

Recently, a robust controller has been proposed to be used in control of plants with large uncertainty in location of one of their poles. By using this controller, not only the phase margin and gain crossover frequency are adjustable for the nominal case but also the phase margin remains constant, notwithstanding the variations in location of the uncertain pole of the plant. In this paper, the tuning rule of the aforementioned controller is extended such that it can be applied in control of plants modeled by fractional order models. Numerical examples are provided to show the effectiveness of the tuned controller.
Welding Simulation of Non-Nominal Structures With Clamps
Authors: Lorin Samuel , Cromvik Christoffer , Edelvik Fredrik , Söderberg Rikard
Published: January 2015

In any industrial assembly process, there are a number of sources of variation. Variation in the manufacturing process leads to component variation, which, together with fixture variation and variation stemming from the joining process, propagates to the final product. In order to analyze and diminish the effect of variation, it is important to identify and be able to simulate the phenomena contributing to final variation. In this paper, the focus is variation in welding distortion arising from non-nominal components that are joined. In the welding process, it has been shown that variation in components and in fixtures influences the size and distribution of weld-induced distortion. Hence, in order to accurately simulate geometric variation of an assembly joined by weld joints, variation simulation and welding simulation need to be performed in combination. Previous research that focused on the combination of variation simulation and welding simulation has not considered components that are clamped. Instead the components were treated as rigid bodies at non-nominal positions prior to welding. In many industrial applications, clamps are used when assemblies are welded, and it is therefore important to quantify the influence that clamping has on welding of non-nominal components. In this paper, we simulate the combination of variation in components and fixtures with welding, considering that the components are clamped prior to welding. Although clamps will force the components closer to their nominal positions along the weld joint, they also introduce a stress field in the structure, which together with the welding process may cause additional distortion. Two case studies are performed and analyzed: a T-weld joint and a butt-weld joint. The results show that welding distortion depends on fixture error even in the presence of clamps.
Smart Guidewires for Smooth Navigation in Neurovascular Intervention
Authors: Barry Matthew M. , Shayan Mahdis , Jankowitz Brian T. , Chen Yanfei , Duan Xinjie , Robertson Anne M. , Chyu Minking K. , Chun Youngjae
Published: January 2015

Smart nitinol guidewires have been proposed to improve trackability, facilitating the advancement of catheters through complex vascular anatomies during neurovascular interventions. A smart 0.015 in. diameter nitinol guidewire was actualized through Joule heating of one-way and two-way shape memory alloys (SMA). The device functionalities in terms of bending performance were analyzed: (1) trackability of a 4 Fr catheter as determined in an anatomically correct in vitro environment; (2) time and spatial response of the smart guidewire as a function of material temperature and applied current; and (3) thrombogenic effects as a function of temperature and applied voltage. The results suggest that smart guidewires have substantially improved trackability (i.e., deflection of 15 deg) to overcome the “ledge effect” with the absence of thrombogenicity via a smart guidewire–catheter combined transcatheter based procedure which keeps the catheter surface temperature at 30–33 °C.
A Randomized Approach to Volume Constrained Polyhedronization Problem
Authors: Peethambaran Jiju , Dev Parakkat Amal , Muthuganapathy Ramanathan
Published: January 2015

Given a finite set of points in R3, polyhedronization deals with constructing a simple polyhedron such that the vertices of the polyhedron are precisely the given points. In this paper, we present randomized approximation algorithms for minimal volume polyhedronization (MINVP) and maximal volume polyhedronization (MAXVP) of three dimensional point sets in general position. Both, MINVP and MAXVP, problems have been shown to be NP-hard and to the best of our knowledge, no practical algorithms exist to solve these problems. It has been shown that for any point set S in R3, there always exists a tetrahedralizable polyhedronization of S. We exploit this fact to develop a greedy heuristic for MINVP and MAXVP constructions. Further, we present an empirical analysis on the quality of the approximation results of some well defined point sets. The algorithms have been validated by comparing the results with the optimal results generated by an exhaustive searching (brute force) method for MINVP and MAXVP for some well chosen point sets of smaller sizes. Finally, potential applications of minimum and maximum volume polyhedra in 4D printing and surface lofting, respectively, have been discussed.
Designing Optimal Origami Structures by Computational Evolutionary Embryogeny
Authors: Li Wei , McAdams Daniel A.
Published: January 2015

As the advantages of foldable or deployable structures are being discovered, research into origami engineering has attracted more focus from both artists and engineers. With the aid of modern computer techniques, some computational origami design methods have been developed. Most of these methods focus on the problem of origami crease pattern design—the problem of determining a crease pattern to realize a specified origami final shape, but do not provide computational solutions to actually developing a shape that meets some design performance criteria. This paper presents a design method that includes the computational design of the finished shape as well as the crease pattern. The origami shape will be designed to satisfy geometric, functional, and foldability requirements. This design method is named computational evolutionary embryogeny for optimal origami design (CEEFOOD), which is an extension of the genetic algorithm (GA) and an original CEE. Unlike existing origami crease pattern design methods that adopt deductive logic, CEEFOOD implements an abductive approach to progressively evolve an optimal design. This paper presents how CEEFOOD—as a member of the GA family—determines the genetic representation (genotype) of candidate solutions, the formulation of the objective function, and the design of evolutionary operators. This paper gives an origami design problem, which has requirements on the folded-state profile, position of center of mass, and number of creases. Several solutions derived by CEEFOOD are listed and compared to highlight the effectiveness of this abductive design method.
Experimental Study of an Airplane Accident Evacuation/Rescue Simulation Using Three-Dimensional Kinematic Digital Human Models
Authors: Kakizaki Takao , Endo Mitsuru , Urii Jiro
Published: January 2015

The 3D mass evacuation simulation of an airplane accident is experimentally verified. Evacuee motion has been experimentally investigated by building a test field that emulates the interior of an actual regional airliner with a capacity of approximately 100 passengers. The experiment results indicate that the evacuation time tends to be affected by the number of passengers and the evacuee guidance at the emergency exit. The results also indicate that any evacuation delay in exiting by individual passengers only slightly affects the total evacuation time because of evacuee congestion in the aisles. Moreover, the importance of evacuation guidance notification was investigated based on the evacuation-order variance. Finally, the experimental results were compared to the corresponding simulation results. Simulations using appropriate evacuee walking speeds can provide valid evacuation times, which are the most important factor in designing evacuation drills. Consequently, these results should be applied to existing 3D simulations using precise kinematic digital human (KDH) models for more accurate mass evacuation/rescue simulations.
Experimental Investigation of Microcutting Mechanisms in Oxide Ceramic CM332 Grinding
Authors: Mladenovic G. , Bojanic P. , Tanovic Lj. , Klimenko S.
Published: January 2015

The paper contains an experimental study of microcutting intended to help the optimization of the grinding process of the oxide ceramic CM332 (99.5% Al2O3) grinding. The need for investigating the mechanisms occurring between the abrasive material and the ceramic is imposed by the fact that grinding is the dominant technology used to achieve the required quality of the workpiece surface finish. The microcutting process was performed with a single diamond cone-shaped grain of tip radius of 0.2 mm at varying depths of cut. The investigations were carried out to determine the normal and tangential cutting forces, the critical penetration depth and the specific grinding energy as a function of the grain penetration speed and depth. The critical grain penetration depth separating ductile flow from brittle fracture falls within the 4–6 μm range. The values of the critical penetration depth are also consistent with the results of changes in the cutting forces and the specific grinding energy. The chip formation mechanism is associated with the presence of median/radial and lateral cracks, ductile flow, chipping along the groove, and crushing beneath the diamond grain, all this affecting the quality of the ceramic's machined surface.
Assessment of Microgrooved Cutting Tool in Dry Machining of AISI 1045 Steel
Authors: Ma Jianfeng , Duong Nick H. , Chang Shing , Lian Yunsong , Deng Jianxin , Lei Shuting
Published: January 2015

This paper studies the performance of microgrooved cutting tool in dry orthogonal machining of mild steel (AISI 1045 steel) using advantedge finite element simulation. Microgrooves are designed on the rake face of cemented carbide (WC/Co) cutting inserts. The purpose is to examine the effect of microgroove textured tools on machining performance and to compare it with nontextured cutting tools. Specifically, the following groove parameters are examined: groove width, groove depth, and edge distance (the distance from cutting edge to the first groove). Their effects are assessed in terms of the main force, thrust force, and chip–tool contact length. It is found that microgrooved cutting tools generate lower cutting force and thrust force, and consequently lower the energy necessary for machining. The groove width, groove depth, and edge distance all have influence on cutting force in their own ways.
Evaluation of Matrix9 silicon photomultiplier array for small‐animal PET
Authors: Du Junwei , Schmall Jeffrey P. , Yang Yongfeng , Di Kun , Roncali Emilie , Mitchell Gregory S. , Buckley Steve , Jackson Carl , Cherry Simon R.
Published: January 2015

Purpose:

The MatrixSL‐9‐30035‐OEM (Matrix9) from SensL is a large‐area silicon photomultiplier (SiPM) photodetector module consisting of a 3 × 3 array of 4 × 4 element SiPM arrays (total of 144 SiPM pixels) and incorporates SensL's front‐end electronics board and coincidence board. Each SiPM pixel measures 3.16 × 3.16 mm2 and the total size of the detector head is 47.8 × 46.3 mm2. Using 8 × 8 polished LSO/LYSO arrays (pitch 1.5 mm) the performance of this detector system (SiPM array and readout electronics) was evaluated with a view for its eventual use in small‐animal positron emission tomography (PET).

Methods:

Measurements of noise, signal, signal‐to‐noise ratio, energy resolution, flood histogram quality, timing resolution, and array trigger error were obtained at different bias voltages (28.0–32.5 V in 0.5 V intervals) and at different temperatures (5 °C–25 °C in 5 °C degree steps) to find the optimal operating conditions.

Results:

The best measured signal‐to‐noise ratio and flood histogram quality for 511 keV gamma photons were obtained at a bias voltage of 30.0 V and a temperature of 5 °C. The energy resolution and timing resolution under these conditions were 14.2% ± 0.1% and 4.2 ± 0.1 ns, respectively. The flood histograms show that all the crystals in the 1.5 mm pitch LSO array can be clearly identified and that smaller crystal pitches can also be resolved. Flood histogram quality was also calculated using different center of gravity based positioning algorithms. Improved and more robust results were achieved using the local 9 pixels for positioning along with an energy offset calibration. To evaluate the front‐end detector readout, and multiplexing efficiency, an array trigger error metric is introduced and measured at different lower energy thresholds. Using a lower energy threshold greater than 150 keV effectively eliminates any mispositioning between SiPM arrays.

Conclusions:

In summary, the Matrix9 detector system can resolve high‐resolution scintillator arrays common in small‐animal PET with adequate energy resolution and timing resolution over a large detector area. The modular design of the Matrix9 detector allows it to be used as a building block for simple, low channel‐count, yet high performance, small animal PET or PET/MRI systems.
Impacted permanent incisors associated with compound odontoma
Authors: Machado Cintia de Vasconcellos , Knop Luégya Amorin Henriques , Siquara da Rocha Maria Celina Barreiros , Telles Paloma Dias da Silva
Published: January 2015

Odontomas are the most common odontogenic tumours of the maxillary bones, characterised by a slow growth and benign behaviour. They are usually small, asymptomatic and diagnosed after routine radiographic examination. The aim of this study was to report a case of a compound odontoma in the anterior maxilla of a 7-year-old girl, which was causing the impaction of the maxillary right central and lateral incisors, as well as the prolonged retention of the corresponding primary teeth. We also aimed to review the literature about these tumours, since they are not part of the dentist's day-to-day clinical practice. The clinical and radiographic features, the diagnosis and treatment of the case were discussed in this work.