bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research Review: Use of EEG biomarkers in child psychiatry research – current state and future directions
Authors: Loo Sandra K. , Lenartowicz Agatha , Makeig Scott
Published: June 2015

Background

Electroencephalography (EEG) and related measures have a long and productive history in child psychopathology research and are currently experiencing a renaissance in interest, particularly for use as putative biomarkers.

Method and Scope

First, the recent history leading to the use of EEG measures as endophenotypes and biomarkers for disease and treatment response are reviewed. Two key controversies within the area of noninvasive human electrophysiology research are discussed, and problems that currently either function as barriers or provide gateways to progress. First, the differences between the main types of EEG measurements (event‐related potentials, quantitative EEG, and time–frequency measures) and how they can contribute collectively to better understanding of cortical dynamics underlying cognition and behavior are highlighted. Second, we focus on the ongoing shift in analytic focus to specific cortical sources and source networks whose dynamics are relevant to the clinical and experimental focus of the study, and the effective increase in source signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) that may be obtained in the process.

Conclusions

Understanding of these issues informs any discussion of current trends in EEG research. We highlight possible ways to evolve our understanding of brain dynamics beyond the apparent contradictions in understanding and modeling EEG activity highlighted by these controversies. Finally, we summarize some promising future directions of EEG biomarker research in child psychopathology.
Identification and expression analysis of irak1 gene in common carp Cyprinus carpio L.: indications for a role of antibacterial and antiviral immunity
Authors: Shan S. J. , Liu D. Z. , Wang L. , Zhu Y. Y. , Zhang F. M. , Li T. , An L. G. , Yang G. W.
Published: June 2015

In this study, the full‐length complementary (c)DNA of interleukin‐1 receptor‐associated kinase 1 gene (irak1) was cloned from common carp Cyprinus carpio. The complete open reading frame of irak1 contained 2109 bp encoding a protein of 702 amino acid residues that comprised a death domain, a ProST region, a serine–threonine‐specific protein kinase catalytic domain and a C‐terminal domain. The amino‐acid sequence of C. carpio Irak1 protein shared sequence homology with grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idellus (84·5%). The phylogenetic tree of IRAKs separated the polypeptides into four clades, comprising IRAK1s, IRAK2s, IRAK3s and IRAK4s. Cyprinus carpio Irak1 fell into the cluster with previously reported IRAK1s including teleost Irak1s. The irak1 gene was highly expressed in gills, followed by brain, skin, hindgut, buccal epithelium, spleen, foregut, head kidney and liver, and was expressed at lowest levels in gonad and muscle. The irak1 messenger (m)RNA expression was up‐regulated in liver, spleen, head kidney, foregut, hindgut, gills and skin after stimulation with Vibrio anguillarum and poly(I:C), and significantly high up‐regulated expression was observed in liver and spleen. These results implied that irak1 might participate in antibacterial and antiviral innate immunity. These findings gave the indications that irak1 may participate in antibacterial and antiviral immunity.
Long‐term safety and outcome of percutaneous transhepatic venous balloon angioplasty for Budd–Chiari syndrome
Authors: Ding Peng‐Xu , Zhang Shui‐Jun , Li Zhen , Fu Ming‐Ti , Hua Zhao‐Hui , Zhang Wen‐Guang
Published: June 2015

Background and Aims

The restenosis following percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty (PTBA) is high for Budd–Chiari syndrome (BCS) patients with hepatic venous obstruction (HVO). We aim to evaluate the safety and long‐term outcome of PTBA with a large balloon catheter in a large series of patients with HVO.

Methods

Between January 2005 and December 2013, 93 consecutive BCS patients with HVO were referred for PTBA and subsequently underwent color Doppler ultrasonography or angiography follow‐up. Data were retrospectively collected, and follow‐up observations were performed at 1‐, 2‐, 2‐ to 5‐, and 5‐ to 8‐years postoperatively.

Results

Percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty was technically successful in all patients. Ninety‐one patients (97.85%) were treated with PTBA and two with PTBA and stent. Major procedure‐related complications occurred in six of the 93 patients (6.45%). The cumulative 1‐, 2‐, 2‐ to 5‐, and 5‐ to 8‐year primary patency rates were 97.5%, 92.9%, 90%, and 86.5%, respectively. Cumulative 1‐, 2‐, 2‐ to 5‐, and 5‐ to 8‐year secondary patency rates were 100%, 100%, 98.6%, and 97.3%, respectively. Mean and median primary patency rates were 51.50 ± 3.01 months and 55.0 ± 3.63 months, respectively. Cumulative 1‐, 2‐, 2‐ to 5‐, and 5‐ to 8‐year survival rates were 98.75%, 98.6%, 100%, and 100%, respectively. Mean and median survival times were 53.10 ± 3.04 months and 55.0 ± 3.64 months, respectively.

Conclusion

Percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty with a large balloon is a safe and effective treatment that could provide excellent rates of long‐term patency and survival for the majority of Chinese patients with BCS and HVO.
Structure and function of the mammalian middle ear. I: Large middle ears in small desert mammals
Authors: Mason Matthew J.
Published: June 2015

Many species of small desert mammals are known to have expanded auditory bullae. The ears of gerbils and heteromyids have been well described, but much less is known about the middle ear anatomy of other desert mammals. In this study, the middle ears of three gerbils (Meriones, Desmodillus and Gerbillurus), two jerboas (Jaculus) and two sengis (elephant‐shrews: Macroscelides and Elephantulus) were examined and compared, using micro‐computed tomography and light microscopy. Middle ear cavity expansion has occurred in members of all three groups, apparently in association with an essentially ‘freely mobile’ ossicular morphology and the development of bony tubes for the middle ear arteries. Cavity expansion can occur in different ways, resulting in different subcavity patterns even between different species of gerbils. Having enlarged middle ear cavities aids low‐frequency audition, and several adaptive advantages of low‐frequency hearing to small desert mammals have been proposed. However, while Macroscelides was found here to have middle ear cavities so large that together they exceed brain volume, the bullae of Elephantulus are considerably smaller. Why middle ear cavities are enlarged in some desert species but not others remains unclear, but it may relate to microhabitat.
DOES AGGLOMERATION MATTER EVERYWHERE?: NEW FIRM LOCATION DECISIONS IN RURAL AND URBAN MARKETS*
Authors: Artz Georgeanne M. , Kim Younjun , Orazem Peter F.
Published: June 2015

We test whether commonly used measures of agglomeration economies encourage new firm entry in both urban and rural markets. Using new firm location decisions in Iowa and North Carolina, we find that measured agglomeration economies increase the probability of new firm entry in both urban and rural areas. Firms are more likely to locate in markets with an existing cluster of firms in the same industry, with greater concentrations of upstream suppliers or downstream customers, and with a larger proportion of college‐educated workers in the local labor supply. Firms are less likely to enter markets with no incumbent firms in the sector or where production is concentrated in relatively few sectors. The same factors encourage both stand‐alone start‐ups and establishments built by multiplant firms. Commuting decisions exhibit the same pattern as new firm entry with workers commuting from low to high agglomeration markets. Because agglomeration economies are important for rural firm entry also, policies encouraging new firm entry should focus on relatively few job centers rather than encouraging new firm entry in every small town.
HCV‐associated B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphomas and new direct antiviral agents
Authors: Carrier Paul , Jaccard Arnaud , Jacques Jérémie , Tabouret Tessa , Debette‐Gratien Marilyne , Abraham Julie , Mesturoux Laura , Marquet Pierre , Alain Sophie , Sautereau Denis , Essig Marie , Loustaud‐Ratti Véronique
Published: June 2015

Background & Aims

Hepatitis C virus‐related B‐cell proliferation is a model of virus‐driven autoimmune/neoplastic disorder leading to mixed cryoglobulinaemia and/or B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma. These lymphomas are often marginal zone lymphomas or diffuse large B‐cell lymphomas. Peginterferon/Ribavirin therapy has proved its crucial role in the cure of these non‐Hodgkin lymphomas, but data are lacking concerning new direct anti‐viral agents.

Methods

We report five cases of Hepatitis C virus‐associated B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma treated with direct anti‐viral agents: two marginal zone lymphomas received direct anti‐viral agents alone (one with a leukaemic phase only, one with splenic and deep lymph nodes localizations); one renal marginal zone lymphoma with renal insufficiency received direct anti‐viral agents and four rituximab infusions simultaneously; two diffuse large B‐cell lymphomas were treated with direct ant‐viral agents following chemotherapy.

Results

Sustained virological response was obtained in all patients, and complete remission of NHL was noted 6 months after cessation of any treatment except for one patient with a persistent small leukaemic phase.

Conclusion

Direct anti‐viral agents might be proposed as a first‐line treatment in marginal zone lymphomas in the case of no life‐threatening complications with the precaution of a long‐term follow‐up. In the setting of diffuse large B‐cell lymphomas, well‐tolerated direct anti‐viral agents could potentially be introduced very early not only to prevent relapse of these lymphomas but also to limit the liver toxicity of chemotherapy and rituximab by preventing outbreaks of viral load. New observations and trials should support these assumptions.
Signatures of positive selection: from selective sweeps at individual loci to subtle allele frequency changes in polygenic adaptation
Authors: Stephan Wolfgang
Published: June 2015

In the past 15 years, numerous methods have been developed to detect selective sweeps underlying adaptations. These methods are based on relatively simple population genetic models, including one or two loci at which positive directional selection occurs, and one or two marker loci at which the impact of selection on linked neutral variation is quantified. Information about the phenotype under selection is not included in these models (except for fitness). In contrast, in the quantitative genetic models of adaptation, selection acts on one or more phenotypic traits, such that a genotype–phenotype map is required to bridge the gap to population genetics theory. Here I describe the range of population genetic models from selective sweeps in a panmictic population of constant size to evolutionary traffic when simultaneous sweeps at multiple loci interfere, and I also consider the case of polygenic selection characterized by subtle allele frequency shifts at many loci. Furthermore, I present an overview of the statistical tests that have been proposed based on these population genetics models to detect evidence for positive selection in the genome.
FliL associates with the stator to support torque generation of the sodium‐driven polar flagellar motor of Vibrio
Authors: Zhu Shiwei , Kumar Ananthanarayanan , Kojima Seiji , Homma Michio
Published: June 2015

Flagellar motors generate torque to rotate flagellar filaments and drive bacterial cells. Each motor is composed of a rotor and many stators. The stator is a force‐generating complex that converts ion flux into torque. Previous reports have suggested that the membrane protein FliL is located near the stator and is involved in torque generation. We investigated the role of FliL in the sodium‐driven polar flagellar motor of Vibrio alginolyticus. Our results revealed that FliL is a cytoplasmic membrane protein and is located at the base of flagellum. The deletion of fliL did not affect the cell morphology or flagellation but resulted in a significant decrease of swimming speed, especially at a higher load thus suggesting that FliL is important for torque generation at high load conditions. Furthermore, the polar localization of the stator was decreased in a ΔfliL mutant, but the sodium‐dependent assembly of the stator complex was still retained. The polar localization of FliL was lost in the absence of the stator complex, indicating that FliL interacts directly or indirectly with the stator. Our results suggest that FliL is localized along with the stator in order to support the motor functioning for swimming at high load conditions by maintaining the stator assembly.
Diagnostic accuracy of the Aspergillus‐specific bronchoalveolar lavage lateral‐flow assay in haematological malignancy patients
Authors: Prattes Juergen , Lackner Michaela , Eigl Susanne , Reischies Frederike , Raggam Reinhard B. , Koidl Christoph , Flick Holger , Wurm Robert , Palfner Michael , Wölfler Albert , Neumeister Peter , Thornton Christopher R. , Krause Robert , Lass‐Flörl Cornelia , Hoenigl Martin
Published: June 2015

We evaluated the performance of the Aspergillus‐specific lateral‐flow device (LFD) test for diagnosing invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) in patients with underlying haematological malignancies. Participating centres were the two Austrian University Hospitals of Graz and Innsbruck. LFD performance was evaluated with 95 bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples from 72 patients collected prospectively in Graz, and with 24 BALF bio bank samples from 23 patients (21 samples with probable IPA) in Innsbruck. Invasive fungal infections were classified according to the revised European Organization of Research and Treatment of Cancer/Mycoses Study Group criteria. Overall, 27 patients (30 samples) had probable IPA, 32 (43 samples) possible and 36 (46 samples) did not fulfil IPA criteria. The vast majority of patients – in particular those with probable IPA – received mould‐active treatment before bronchoscopy. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative‐predictive‐value for probable IPA diagnosis using the BALF‐LFD test were 71%, 76%, 35% and 94% for the Graz cohort. Sensitivity of the BALF‐LFD test for probable IPA was 57% in Innsbruck bio bank samples. Our results indicate that the BALF‐LFD‐test provides fast results with moderate sensitivities in patients with underlying haematological malignancies. Similar to other diagnostic tests and biomarkers sensitivity of the test may be influenced by ongoing systemic mould‐active treatment.
Myths and symbols in the political culture of Catalan nationalism (1880–1914)
Authors: Cattini Giovanni C.
Published: June 2015

Historiography on the phenomenology of nationalisms has often pointed to the importance of myths and symbols in the construction of these political movements, underlining how the past is transfigured and/or particular historical episodes are recast for use in creating a given political discourse in the present. By adopting this viewpoint, the aim of this paper is to analyse the evolution of historiographical thinking on the use of myths and symbols in contemporary politics, giving particular attention to how they were brought to bear in the early days of the Catalan nationalist movement. This initial period, covering the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, is of special interest in the case of Catalan nationalism because it was a phase of politicisation marked – much as it was in other nationalist movements across Europe – by a nationalisation of history, a selection of foundation myths and historical milestones, and a crystallisation of the movement's symbols.
The end of ethnic nationalism? Changing conceptions of national identity and belonging among young South Koreans
Authors: Campbell Emma
Published: June 2015

Historically in South Korea, ideas of nation and nationalism have been based upon the ethnic and cultural homogeneity of all Korean people. More recently, there has been an evolution in South Korean nationalism that is based on strikingly different notions particularly among young people. This paper argues that a new South Korean nationalism is emerging and that it has, what I term, globalised cultural characteristics. These characteristics challenge the role of ethnicity in young people's conception of the South Korean nation and its component members. This paper details the evolution of South Korea's nationalism and explains its implications for Korean politics and society as well as its comparative significance for other national contexts. It also highlights some elements of this evolving nationalism that demonstrate less cosmopolitan characteristics, such as patriarchy and social class, in determining who can be ‘imagined’ as a member of this changing South Korean nation.
Microbial respiration with chlorine oxyanions: diversity and physiological and biochemical properties of chlorate‐ and perchlorate‐reducing microorganisms
Authors: Liebensteiner Martin G. , Oosterkamp Margreet J. , Stams Alfons J.M.
Published: June 2015

Chlorine oxyanions are valuable electron acceptors for microorganisms. Recent findings have shed light on the natural formation of chlorine oxyanions in the environment. These suggest a permanent introduction of respective compounds on Earth, long before their anthropogenic manufacture. Microorganisms that are able to grow by the reduction of chlorate and perchlorate are affiliated with phylogenetically diverse lineages, spanning from the Proteobacteria to the Firmicutes and archaeal microorganisms. Microbial reduction of chlorine oxyanions can be found in diverse environments and different environmental conditions (temperature, salinities, pH). It commonly involves the enzymes perchlorate reductase (Pcr) or chlorate reductase (Clr) and chlorite dismutase (Cld). Horizontal gene transfer seems to play an important role for the acquisition of functional genes. Novel and efficient Clds were isolated from microorganisms incapable of growing on chlorine oxyanions. Archaea seem to use a periplasmic Nar‐type reductase (pNar) for perchlorate reduction and lack a functional Cld. Chlorite is possibly eliminated by alternative (abiotic) reactions. This was already demonstrated for Archaeoglobus fulgidus, which uses reduced sulfur compounds to detoxify chlorite. A broad biochemical diversity of the trait, its environmental dispersal, and the occurrence of relevant enzymes in diverse lineages may indicate early adaptations of life toward chlorine oxyanions on Earth.
Asymmetric effects of oil price shocks in oil‐exporting countries: the role of institutions
Authors: Moshiri Saeed
Published: June 2015

Many empirical studies on the oil price shock effects on the economies of oil‐exporting countries have assumed a linear relationship between the shocks and macroeconomic variables, offering no insights on the dynamics of different types of shocks. The literature also assumes a homogeneous response to oil price shocks by oil‐exporting countries. This paper investigates the non‐linear effects of oil price shock on macroeconomic performance in the context of two groups of oil‐exporting countries using aVARmodel with price shocks estimated by aGARCHmethod. The model consists of oil price shocks and economic growth as two major variables of interest as well as intermediate variables such as investment, exchange rate, and inflation rate. The sample includes nine major oil‐exporting countries, six developing and three developed countries, for the period 1970–2010. The results indicate that not all oil‐exporting countries are alike in responding to oil shocks. While oil shocks have asymmetric effects in oil‐exporting developing countries; lower oil prices lead to major revenue cuts and ensuing stagnation in the economy, but higher oil prices and accompanying higher revenues do not translate into sustained economic growth; they do not have significant effect on economic growth in oil‐exporting developed countries. The panel data estimation results also suggest that heterogeneous responses to oil price shocks in oil‐exporting countries can be explained by differences in their institutional quality, particularly government effectiveness.
Cyanobacteria and the Great Oxidation Event: evidence from genes and fossils
Authors: Schirrmeister Bettina E. , Gugger Muriel , Donoghue Philip C. J.
Published: June 2015

Cyanobacteria are among the most ancient of evolutionary lineages, oxygenic photosynthesizers that may have originated before 3.0 Ga, as evidenced by free oxygen levels. Throughout the Precambrian, cyanobacteria were one of the most important drivers of biological innovations, strongly impacting early Earth's environments. At the end of the Archean Eon, they were responsible for the rapid oxygenation of Earth's atmosphere during an episode referred to as the Great Oxidation Event (GOE). However, little is known about the origin and diversity of early cyanobacterial taxa, due to: (1) the scarceness of Precambrian fossil deposits; (2) limited characteristics for the identification of taxa; and (3) the poor preservation of ancient microfossils. Previous studies based on 16S rRNA have suggested that the origin of multicellularity within cyanobacteria might have been associated with the GOE. However, single‐gene analyses have limitations, particularly for deep branches. We reconstructed the evolutionary history of cyanobacteria using genome scale data and re‐evaluated the Precambrian fossil record to get more precise calibrations for a relaxed clock analysis. For the phylogenomic reconstructions, we identified 756 conserved gene sequences in 65 cyanobacterial taxa, of which eight genomes have been sequenced in this study. Character state reconstructions based on maximum likelihood and Bayesian phylogenetic inference confirm previous findings, of an ancient multicellular cyanobacterial lineage ancestral to the majority of modern cyanobacteria. Relaxed clock analyses provide firm support for an origin of cyanobacteria in the Archean and a transition to multicellularity before the GOE. It is likely that multicellularity had a greater impact on cyanobacterial fitness and thus abundance, than previously assumed. Multicellularity, as a major evolutionary innovation, forming a novel unit for selection to act upon, may have served to overcome evolutionary constraints and enabled diversification of the variety of morphotypes seen in cyanobacteria today.
Large‐scale production of pharmaceutical proteins in plant cell culture—the protalix experience
Authors: Tekoah Yoram , Shulman Avidor , Kizhner Tali , Ruderfer Ilya , Fux Liat , Nataf Yakir , Bartfeld Daniel , Ariel Tami , Gingis–Velitski Svetlana , Hanania Uri , Shaaltiel Yoseph
Published: June 2015

Protalix Biotherapeutics develops recombinant human proteins and produces them in plant cell culture. Taliglucerase alfa has been the first biotherapeutic expressed in plant cells to be approved by regulatory authorities around the world. Other therapeutic proteins are being developed and are currently at various stages of the pipeline. This review summarizes the major milestones reached by Protalix Biotherapeutics to enable the development of these biotherapeutics, including platform establishment, cell line selection, manufacturing process and good manufacturing practice principles to consider for the process. Examples of the various products currently being developed are also presented.
Lagrangian Time Series Models for Ocean Surface Drifter Trajectories
Authors: Sykulski Adam M. , Olhede Sofia C. , Lilly Jonathan M. , Danioux Eric
Published: June 2015

The paper proposes stochastic models for the analysis of ocean surface trajectories obtained from freely drifting satellite-tracked instruments. The time series models proposed are used to summarize large multivariate data sets and to infer important physical parameters of inertial oscillations and other ocean processes. Non-stationary time series methods are employed to account for the spatiotemporal variability of each trajectory. Because the data sets are large, we construct computationally efficient methods through the use of frequency domain modelling and estimation, with the data expressed as complex-valued time series. We detail how practical issues related to sampling and model misspecification may be addressed by using semiparametric techniques for time series, and we demonstrate the effectiveness of our stochastic models through application to both real world data and to numerical model output.
Effect of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy on Inflammation in Congestive Heart Failure: A Review
Authors: Lappegård K. T. , Bjørnstad H. , Mollnes T. E. , Hovland A.
Published: June 2015

Congestive heart failure is associated with increased levels of several inflammatory mediators, and animal studies have shown that infusion of a number of cytokines can induce heart failure. However, several drugs with proven efficacy in heart failure have failed to affect inflammatory mediators, and anti‐inflammatory therapy in heart failure patients has thus far been disappointing. Hence, to what extent heart failure is caused by or responsible for the increased inflammatory burden in the patient is still unclear. Over the past couple of decades, resynchronization therapy with a biventricular pacemaker has emerged as an effective treatment in a subset of heart failure patients, reducing both morbidity and mortality. Such treatment has also been shown to affect the inflammation associated with heart failure. In this study, we review recent data on the association between heart failure and inflammation, and in particular how resynchronization therapy can affect the inflammatory process.
Effect of Perfusion Fluids on Recovery of Inflammatory Mediators in Microdialysis
Authors: Khan F. , Pharo A. , Lindstad J. K. , Mollnes T. E. , Tønnessen T. I. , Pischke S. E.
Published: June 2015

Microdialysis is an excellent tool to assess tissue inflammation in patients, but in vitro systems to evaluate recovery of inflammatory mediators have not been standardized. We aimed to develop a reference plasma preparation and evaluate different perfusion fluids with respect to recovery of metabolic and inflammatory markers. The reference preparation was produced by incubation of human blood with lipopolysaccharide and cobra venom factor to generate cytokines and activate complement, respectively. Microdialysis with 100 kDa catheters was performed using different colloid and crystalloid perfusion fluids (hydroxyethyl starch (HES) 130/0.4, HES 200/0.5, hyperosmolar HES 200/0.5, albumin 200 g/l, T1 perfusion fluid and Ringer's acetate) compared to today's recommended dextran 60 solution. Recovery of glucose, glycerol and pyruvate was not significantly different between the perfusion fluids, whereas lactate had lower recovery in HES 200/0.5 and albumin perfusion fluids. Recovery rates for the inflammatory proteins in comparison with the concentration in the reference preparation differed substantially: IL‐6 = 9%, IL‐1β = 18%, TNF = 0.3%, MCP‐1 = 45%, IL‐8 = 48%, MIG = 48%, IP‐10 = 25%, C3a = 53% and C5a = 12%. IL‐10 was not detectable in microdialysis dialysate. HES 130/0.4 and HES 200/0.5 yielded a recovery not significantly different from dextran 60. Hyperosmolar HES 200/0.5 and albumin showed significantly different pattern of recovery with increased concentration of MIG, IP‐10, C3a and C5a and decreased concentration of IL‐1β, TNF, MCP‐1 and IL‐8 in comparison with dextran 60. In conclusion, microdialysis perfusion fluid dextran 60 can be replaced by the commonly used HES 130/0.4, whereas albumin might be used if specific immunological variables are in focus. The present reference plasma preparation is suitable for in vitro evaluation of microdialysis systems.
Disease mapping for informing targeted health interventions: childhood pneumonia in Bohol, Philippines
Authors: Thomas Deborah S. K. , Anthamatten Peter , Root Elisabeth Dowling , Lucero Marilla , Nohynek Hanna , Tallo Veronica , Williams Gail M. , Simões Eric A. F. ,   the ARIVAC Consortium
Published: June 2015

Background

Acute lower respiratory tract infections (ALRI) are the leading cause of childhood mortality worldwide. Currently, most developing countries assign resources at a district level, and yet District Medical Officers have few tools for directing targeted interventions to high mortality or morbidity areas. Mapping of ALRI at the local level can guide more efficient allocation of resources, coordination of efforts and targeted interventions, which are particularly relevant for health management in resource‐scarce settings.

Methods

An efficacy study of 11‐valent pneumococcal vaccine was conducted in six municipalities in the Bohol Province of central Philippines from July 2000 to December 2004. Geocoded under‐five pneumonia cases (using WHO classifications) were mapped to create spatial patterns of pneumonia at the local health unit (barangay) level.

Results

There were 2951 children with WHO‐defined clinical pneumonia, of whom 1074 were severe or very severely ill, 278 were radiographic, and 219 were hypoxaemic. While most children with pneumonia were from urban barangays, there was a disproportionately higher distribution of severe/very severe pneumonia in rural barangays and the most severe hypoxaemic children were concentrated in the northern barangays most distant from the regional hospital.

Conclusions

Mapping of ALRI at the local administrative health level can be performed relatively simply. If these principles are applied to routinely collected IMCI classification of disease at the district level in developing countries, such efforts can form the basis for directing public health and healthcare delivery efforts in a targeted manner.
Enhanced Compressive Sensing of Dielectric Elastomer Sensor Using a Novel Structure
Authors: Liu Junjie , Mao Guoyong , Huang Xiaoqiang , Zou Zhanan , Qu Shaoxing
Published: June 2015

Dielectric elastomer (DE) can undergo large deformation when subjected to external forces or voltage, leading to the variation of the capacitance. A novel DE sensor is proposed to detect compressive force. This sensor consists of a series of elements made of DE membrane with out-of-plane deformation. Each element experiences highly inhomogeneous large deformation to obtain high sensitivity. Both experimental and theoretical studies are conducted to optimize the performance of the sensor element, and the effects of the prestretches and the aspect ratios on the sensitivity are achieved. Results from the theoretical analysis based on continuum mechanics agree well with the experimental data. Furthermore, the reliability of the sensor element is illustrated by additional experimental investigation on the operation after 2000 cyclic loadings. This study provides guidance for the design and performance analysis of soft sensors.
Computational Study of Computed Tomography Contrast Gradients in Models of Stenosed Coronary Arteries
Authors: Eslami Parastou , Seo Jung-Hee , Rahsepar Amir Ali , George Richard , Lardo Albert C. , Mittal Rajat
Published: June 2015

Recent computed tomography coronary angiography (CCTA) studies have noted higher transluminal contrast agent gradients in arteries with stenotic lesions, but the physical mechanism responsible for these gradients is not clear. We use computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling coupled with contrast agent dispersion to investigate the mechanism for these gradients. Simulations of blood flow and contrast agent dispersion in models of coronary artery are carried out for both steady and pulsatile flows, and axisymmetric stenoses of severities varying from 0% (unobstructed) to 80% are considered. Simulations show the presence of measurable gradients with magnitudes that increase monotonically with stenotic severity when other parameters are held fixed. The computational results enable us to examine and validate the hypothesis that transluminal contrast gradients (TCG) are generated due to the advection of the contrast bolus with time-varying contrast concentration that appears at the coronary ostium. Since the advection of the bolus is determined by the flow velocity in the artery, the magnitude of the gradient, therefore, encodes the coronary flow velocity. The correlation between the flow rate estimated from TCG and the actual flow rate in the computational model of a physiologically realistic coronary artery is 96% with a R2 value of 0.98. The mathematical formulae connecting TCG to flow velocity derived here represent a novel and potentially powerful approach for noninvasive estimation of coronary flow velocity from CT angiography.
Predicting Complete Ground Reaction Forces and Moments During Gait With Insole Plantar Pressure Information Using a Wavelet Neural Network
Authors: Sim Taeyong , Kwon Hyunbin , Oh Seung Eel , Joo Su-Bin , Choi Ahnryul , Heo Hyun Mu , Kim Kisun , Mun Joung Hwan
Published: June 2015

In general, three-dimensional ground reaction forces (GRFs) and ground reaction moments (GRMs) that occur during human gait are measured using a force plate, which are expensive and have spatial limitations. Therefore, we proposed a prediction model for GRFs and GRMs, which only uses plantar pressure information measured from insole pressure sensors with a wavelet neural network (WNN) and principal component analysis-mutual information (PCA-MI). For this, the prediction model estimated GRFs and GRMs with three different gait speeds (slow, normal, and fast groups) and healthy/pathological gait patterns (healthy and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) groups). Model performance was validated using correlation coefficients (r) and the normalized root mean square error (NRMSE%) and was compared to the prediction accuracy of the previous methods using the same dataset. As a result, the performance of the GRF and GRM prediction model proposed in this study (slow group: r = 0.840–0.989 and NRMSE% = 10.693–15.894%; normal group: r = 0.847–0.988 and NRMSE% = 10.920–19.216%; fast group: r = 0.823–0.953 and NRMSE% = 12.009–20.182%; healthy group: r = 0.836–0.976 and NRMSE% = 12.920–18.088%; and AIS group: r = 0.917–0.993 and NRMSE% = 7.914–15.671%) was better than that of the prediction models suggested in previous studies for every group and component (p < 0.05 or 0.01). The results indicated that the proposed model has improved performance compared to previous prediction models.
A Systematical Study of the Influence of Blade Length, Blade Width, and Side Channel Height on the Performance of a Side Channel Pump
Authors: Fleder Annika , Böhle Martin
Published: June 2015

Two modular side channel pump models have been investigated both numerically and experimentally. For both modular designs, different side channels and impellers could be studied, with the aim to get information about the influence of the different geometries on the performance and the inner flow phenomena of the pump. By understanding the geometry influences, statements about the design process of the pump are possible. Changes of the geometry of the side channel or the impeller affect the flow in both components. This means that the geometrical dimensions must always be related to each other, in order to make statements about influences of the geometry on the characteristics. Thus, various geometrical configurations are setup, their sizes in industrial pumps are indicated and their influence is investigated by simulations. To evaluate the gained numerical data, it is important to understand the influence of mesh and simulation setup on the results. Therefore, a grid study was conducted and additionally the turbulence model was varied. In this paper, two parameters are focused on: these are the side channel height to the blade length (h/l) and the depth of the side channel in relation to the width of the blade (t/w).
On Viscous Flow in Semi-Elliptic Ducts
Authors: Wang C. Y.
Published: June 2015

The exact series solutions for the laminar flow in a semi-elliptic duct are presented. The present work studies the semi-elliptic duct with the minor axis as the straight wall, which complements that of Alassar and Abushoshah who used the major axis. Properties of the two types of semi-elliptic ducts are given, including the asymptotic Poiseuille numbers.
A Modified Average Reynolds Equation for Rough Bearings With Anisotropic Slip
Authors: Jao Hsiang-Chin , Chang Kuo-Ming , Chu Li-Ming , Li Wang-Long
Published: June 2015

A lubrication theory that includes the coupled effects of surface roughness and anisotropic slips is proposed. The anisotropic-slip phenomena originate from the microscale roughness at the atomic scale (microtexture) and surface properties of the lubricating surfaces. The lubricant flow between rough surfaces (texture) is defined as the flow in nominal film thickness multiplied by the flow factors. A modified average Reynolds equation (modified ARE) as well as the related factors (pressure and shear flow factors, and shear stress factors) is then derived. The present model can be applied to squeeze film problems for anisotropic-slip conditions and to sliding lubrication problems with restrictions to symmetric anisotropic-slip conditions (the two lubricating surfaces have the same principal slip lengths, i.e., b1x=b2x and b1y=b2y). The performance of journal bearings is discussed by solving the modified ARE numerically. Different slenderness ratios 5, 1, and 0.2 are considered to discuss the coupled effects of anisotropic slip and surface roughness. The results show that the existence of boundary slip can dilute the effects of surface roughness. The boundary slip tends to “smoothen” the bearings, i.e., the derived flow factors with slip effects deviate lesser from the values at smooth cases (pressure flow factors φxxp,φyyp=1; shear flow factors φxxs=0; and shear stress factors φf,φfp=1 and φfs=0) than no-slip one. The load ratio increases as the dimensionless slip length (B) decreases exception case is also discussed or the slenderness ratio (b/d) increases. By controlling the surface texture and properties, a bearing with desired performance can be designed.
Burr-like, laser-made 3D microscaffolds for tissue spheroid encagement
Authors: Danilevicius Paulius , Rezende Rodrigo A. , Pereira Frederico D. A. S. , Selimis Alexandros , Kasyanov Vladimir , Noritomi Pedro Y. , da Silva Jorge V. L. , Chatzinikolaidou Maria , Farsari Maria , Mironov Vladimir
Published: June 2015

The modeling, fabrication, cell loading, and mechanical and in vitro biological testing of biomimetic, interlockable, laser-made, concentric 3D scaffolds are presented. The scaffolds are made by multiphoton polymerization of an organic–inorganic zirconium silicate. Their mechanical properties are theoretically modeled using finite elements analysis and experimentally measured using a Microsquisher®. They are subsequently loaded with preosteoblastic cells, which remain live after 24 and 72 h. The interlockable scaffolds have maintained their ability to fuse with tissue spheroids. This work represents a novel technological platform, enabling the rapid, laser-based, in situ 3D tissue biofabrication.
Observation of laser feedback using a grating spectrometer
Authors: Brekke Erik G. , Schulz Matthew A.
Published: June 2015

We describe an experimental setup for observing the effect of optical feedback in an extended cavity diode laser. A simple grating spectrometer is used to observe the naturally occurring wavelength spread and mode spacing for the diode. When the diode is provided with optical feedback from a grating in the Littman-Metcalf configuration, the tunability of the diode is easily observed. This setup presents an intuitive and cost-effective method for demonstrating optical feedback in an advanced undergraduate laboratory setting.
Understanding the gravitational-wave Hellings and Downs curve for pulsar timing arrays in terms of sound and electromagnetic waves
Authors: Jenet Fredrick A. , Romano Joseph D.
Published: June 2015

Searches for stochastic gravitational-wave backgrounds using pulsar timing arrays look for correlations in the timing residuals induced by the background across the pulsars in the array. The correlation signature of an isotropic, unpolarized gravitational-wave background predicted by general relativity follows the so-called Hellings and Downs curve, which is a relatively simple function of the angle between a pair of Earth-pulsar baselines. In this paper, we give a pedagogical discussion of the Hellings and Downs curve for pulsar timing arrays, considering simpler analogous scenarios involving sound and electromagnetic waves. We calculate Hellings-and-Downs-type functions for these two scenarios and develop a framework suitable for doing more general correlation calculations.
Tunneling through one-dimensional piecewise-constant potential barriers
Authors: Das Siddhant
Published: June 2015

In this paper, we examine transmission through one-dimensional potential barriers that are piecewise constant. The transfer matrix approach is adopted, and a new formula is derived for multiplying long matrix sequences that not only leads to an elegant representation of the wave function but also results in much faster computation than earlier methods. The proposed method covers a broad spectrum of potentials, of which multi-barrier systems are special cases. The procedure is illustrated with a finite lattice of nonuniform rectangular barriers—non-uniformity being a novel feature, as the uniform case has been solved exactly by Griffiths and Steinke. For the nonuniform multi-barrier problem, the intervening wells strongly influence the transmission probability. Surprisingly, we find that the wells act “individually,” i.e., their influence is a function only of their width and is independent of their exact locations in a multi-barrier system. This finding leads to an observation that we have termed the “alias effect.” The exact solutions are supplemented with asymptotic formulas.
Revealing the nature of the final image in Newton's experimentum crucis
Authors: Grusche Sascha
Published: June 2015

In his crucial prism experiment, Newton noted the position of the final image, but not its shape or coloring. Most scholars describe the image as a single-colored representation of the selective aperture; some report multiple colors. When the experiment is re-enacted as the transformation of a camera obscura image, it becomes clear that the final image is a rainbow-colored representation of the outside world. Backward ray tracing enhances Newton's demonstration of diverse refrangibility. Using a projector, teachers can easily bring this historical experiment into the classroom and build a bridge to modern applications in hyperspectral imaging and spectral encoding.
A simpler scanning Fabry-Perot interferometer for high-resolution spectroscopy experiments
Authors: Moses Thomas , Wolak Mark , Chandurwala Fahim , Shaw Tenzing
Published: June 2015

An inexpensive, simple-to-build, scanning Fabry-Perot interferometer using commercially available parts is described. We discuss an experiment to measure the interferometer's finesse and we discuss the effect of non-ideal mirrors on instrument performance.
Physical Activity Level and Associated Factors Among Higher Secondary School Students in Banke, Nepal: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Paudel Susan , Subedi Narayan , Mehata Suresh
Published: June 2015

Background:

This study was carried out to assess physical activity level and identify associated factors among higher secondary school students in Banke district, Nepal.

Methods:

A school-based, cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 405 students studying in grades 11 and 12 in 7 higher secondary schools selected randomly. A self-administered questionnaire based on the International Physical Activity Questionnaire was used to measure physical activity level.

Results:

Only 5% of students were found to be inactive, and domestic and transport-related activities were major contributors to total physical activity score. No significant difference existed for total physical activity and domain-specific and activity-specific scores across different age groups when males and females were tested separately. Being male (P = .046), lower economic status (P = .026), living at a distance of less than 30 minutes (P = .007), walking/cycling to school (P < .001), and studying in government school (P < .001) were associated with increased physical activity scores on multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Conclusion:

Routine activities such as transport and household chores contributed greatly to total physical activity among students. This study highlights the need for physical activity promotion interventions at school addressing the associated factors and a need for greater focus on leisure-time physical activities.
Validity of Activity Monitor Step Detection Is Related to Movement Patterns
Authors: Hickey Amanda , John Dinesh , Sasaki Jeffer E. , Mavilia Marianna , Freedson Patty
Published: June 2015

Background:

There is a need to examine step-counting accuracy of activity monitors during different types of movements. The purpose of this study was to compare activity monitor and manually counted steps during treadmill and simulated free-living activities and to compare the activity monitor steps to the StepWatch (SW) in a natural setting.

Methods:

Fifteen participants performed laboratory-based treadmill (2.4, 4.8, 7.2 and 9.7 km/h) and simulated free-living activities (eg, cleaning room) while wearing an activPAL, Omron HJ720-ITC, Yamax Digi-Walker SW-200, 2 ActiGraph GT3Xs (1 in “low-frequency extension” [AGLFE] and 1 in “normal-frequency” mode), an ActiGraph 7164, and a SW. Participants also wore monitors for 1-day in their free-living environment. Linear mixed models identified differences between activity monitor steps and the criterion in the laboratory/free-living settings.

Results:

Most monitors performed poorly during treadmill walking at 2.4 km/h. Cleaning a room had the largest errors of all simulated free-living activities. The accuracy was highest for forward/rhythmic movements for all monitors. In the free-living environment, the AGLFE had the largest discrepancy with the SW.

Conclusion:

This study highlights the need to verify step-counting accuracy of activity monitors with activities that include different movement types/directions. This is important to understand the origin of errors in step-counting during free-living conditions.
Science Signaling
Podcast: 23 June 2015
Authors: Sweatt David J. , Hablitz John J. , VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: June 2015

DNA methylation controls glutamatergic synaptic scaling, a type of synaptic plasticity important for learning and memory.
From tissue damage to adaptive immunity
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: June 2015

Vertebrate adaptive immunity may have evolved from the innate response to tissue damage.
Recruiting bystanders to fight infection
Authors: Prabakaran Sudhakaran
Published: June 2015

Infected and uninfected immune cells collaborate to mount an immune response.
How a receptor transmits a signal
Authors: Vinson Valda
Published: June 2015

Atomic-level simulations show how G protein–coupled receptors trigger G protein signaling.
Improving ER function
Authors: LaMarco Kelly
Published: June 2015

Assays that measure endoplasmic reticulum (ER) function identify a small molecule, azoramide, with antidiabetic effects.
Ensuring daughter cells get PCP components
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: June 2015

A mitotic kinase ensures even distribution of planar cell polarity components to daughter cells.
Metastatic trio: Macrophages, neutrophils, and γδ T cells
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: June 2015

Metastasis of breast cancer cells involves a complex interaction among many types of immune cells.