bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corneal fibrosarcoma in a cat
Authors: Strong Travis D. , Tangeman Sarah , Ben‐Shlomo Gil , Haynes Joseph , Allbaugh Rachel A.
Published: February 2016

Purpose

To present the clinicopathologic features of a Domestic Short‐haired cat with spontaneous, intermediate‐grade corneal fibrosarcoma, possibly secondary to chronic corneal irritation associated with a corneal sequestrum.

Methods

A 12‐year‐old, spayed female Domestic Short‐haired cat was evaluated for a slowly growing, pink, exophytic mass affecting the left cornea. The cat had presented 6 years previously for bilateral brown corneal sequestra, as well as 3 years previously for a small pale growth on the left cornea hypothesized to be an epithelial inclusion cyst and a corneal ulcer affecting the right eye. Incisional biopsy of the corneal mass indicated intermediate‐grade corneal fibrosarcoma within the corneal stroma. Owing to the potential for malignant behavior, the left globe was enucleated. Routine systemic staging was performed prior to surgery with no evidence of metastasis.

Results

Definitive diagnosis of corneal fibrosarcoma was made through histopathologic examination of the incisional biopsy. There was an elevated mitotic index, indicating an intermediate‐grade phenotype. Histopathology of the enucleated globe substantiated the initial findings, and complete tumor resection was confirmed. Subjacent to the corneal fibrosarcoma, there was a region of necrotic tissue suggestive of a corneal sequestrum. Six months after diagnosis and enucleation, the patient remained healthy with no signs of local spread or distant metastasis.

Conclusions

To the authors' knowledge, this is the first documented case of a corneal fibrosarcoma in a cat.
Modulation of afferent nerve activity by prostaglandin E2 upon urinary bladder distension in rats
Authors: Kuga Nahoko , Tanioka Asao , Hagihara Koichiro , Kawai Tomoyuki
Published: February 2016

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

It has been widely assumed that C fibres innervating the bladder are mainly excited in overactive bladder syndrome. However, it remains unclear whether Aδ fibres are also activated in pathological conditions.

What is the main finding and its importance?

We found that a certain population of Aδ fibres, which become active specifically at a bladder pressure of more than 15 cmH2O in normal conditions, showed increased excitability in conditions of prostaglandin E2‐induced overactive bladder. This result suggests that a certain population of Aδ fibres, together with C fibres, triggers pathophysiological activity.

In overactive bladder syndrome, afferent C fibres innervating the bladder show an increased activity level. However, it remains unclear whether all C fibres are highly activated and whether Aδ fibres, the other type of bladder afferent fibre, are also involved in pathological conditions. To address these questions, we analysed the relationship between bladder pressure and single‐unit firing patterns of afferent nerves in the left L6 dorsal roots in living rats. The recorded fibres were classified as Aδ fibres or C fibres based on the response to 0.3 μm tetrodotoxin. Certain populations of both Aδ fibres and C fibres were activated at bladder pressures below 15 cmH2O (classified as low‐threshold fibres), indicating their potential contribution to detection of normal bladder filling. Intravesical administration of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) induced hyperexcitation in approximately half of such C fibres, whereas the activity patterns of low‐threshold Aδ fibres were unchanged. All fibres, regardless of type, which were almost silent in control conditions (classified as high‐threshold fibres), were activated by application of PGE2. Notably, the firing patterns of Aδ fibres, rather than C fibres, were highly time locked to PGE2‐induced micro‐oscillation of bladder pressure. These modulatory effects of PGE2 on Aδ fibres and C fibres might trigger pathophysiological activity together in overactive bladder syndrome.
Medial collateral ligament reconstruction during TKA: a new approach and surgical technique
Authors: Adravanti Paolo , Dini Francesco , Calafiore Giuseppe , Rosa Michele
Published: February 2016

Medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries during total knee arthroplasty are rare but severe complications. They can be treated conservatively, by increasing prosthetic constraint, by using a thicker polyethylene insert, or by directly suturing the ligament. A prosthesis is successful to the extent that it ensures long-term knee stability. We describe our surgical approach to the restoration of knee joint stability in MCL deficiency: a reconstructive technique using the semitendinosus tendon.
Association of a hi-tech with a bio-tech technique in the treatment of early osteoarthritis of the knee: a case report
Authors: Uboldi Francesco , Ferrua Paolo , Parente Andrea , Pasqualotto Stefano , Berruto Massimo
Published: February 2016

Meniscal replacement to treat early osteoarthritis of the knee after meniscectomy may be accompanied by other surgical procedures to treat factors predisposing to a negative intervention outcome. Overload of the medial compartment in slight varus can be reduced by applying the new KineSpring system, which can promote the best possible outcome of a biodegradable meniscal scaffold implantation, without producing biomechanical and anatomical alterations of the joint. This is the first case report on the combination of these hi-tech and bio-tech techniques.
Thermodynamic and Economic Analysis and Multi-objective Optimization of Supercritical CO2 Brayton Cycles
Authors: Zhao Hang , Deng Qinghua , Huang Wenting , Wang Dian , Feng Zhenping
Published: February 2016

Supercritical CO2 Brayton cycles (SCO2BC) including the SCO2 single-recuperated Brayton cycle (RBC) and recompression recuperated Brayton cycle (RRBC) are considered, and flexible thermodynamic and economic modeling methodologies are presented. The influences of the key cycle parameters on thermodynamic performance of SCO2BC are studied, and the comparative analyses on RBC and RRBC are conducted. Nondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) is selected for the Pareto-based multi-objective optimization of the RRBC, with the maximum exergy efficiency and the lowest cost per power (k$/kW) as its objectives. Artificial neural network (ANN) is chosen to accelerate the parameters query process. It is shown that the cycle parameters such as heat source temperature, turbine inlet temperature, cycle pressure ratio, and pinch temperature difference of heat exchangers have significant effects on the cycle exergy efficiency. The exergy destruction of heat exchanger is the main reason why the exergy efficiency of RRBC is higher than that of the RBC under the same cycle conditions. RBC has a cost advantage from economic perspective, while RRBC has a much better thermodynamic performance, and could rectify the temperature pinching problem that exists in RBC. It is also shown that there is a conflicting relationship between the cycle cost/cycle power (CWR) and the cycle exergy efficiency. The optimization results could provide an optimum tradeoff curve enabling cycle designers to choose their desired combination between the efficiency and cost. ANN could help the users to find the SCO2BC parameters fast and accurately.
Perceptual integration of acoustic cues to laryngeal contrasts in Korean fricatives
Authors: Lee Sarah , Katz Jonah
Published: February 2016

This paper provides evidence that multiple acoustic cues involving the presence of low-frequency energy integrate in the perception of Korean coronal fricatives. This finding helps explain a surprising asymmetry between the production and perception of these fricatives found in previous studies: lower F0 onset in the following vowel leads to a response bias for plain [s] over fortis [s*], despite the fact that there is no evidence for a corresponding acoustic asymmetry in the production of [s] and [s*]. A fixed classification task using the Garner paradigm provides evidence that low F0 in a following vowel and the presence of voicing during frication perceptually integrate. This suggests that Korean listeners in previous experiments were responding to an “intermediate perceptual property” of stimuli, despite the fact that the individual acoustic components of that property are not all present in typical Korean fricative productions. The finding also broadens empirical support for the general idea of perceptual integration to a language, a different manner of consonant, and a situation where covariance of the acoustic cues under investigation is not generally present in a listener's linguistic input.
Acoustic behavior of a rigidly backed poroelastic layer with periodic resonant inclusions by a multiple scattering approach
Authors: Weisser Thomas , Groby Jean-Philippe , Dazel Olivier , Gaultier François , Deckers Elke , Futatsugi Sideto , Monteiro Luciana
Published: February 2016

The acoustic response of a rigidly backed poroelastic layer with a periodic set of elastic cylindrical inclusions embedded is studied. A semi-analytical approach is presented, based on Biot's 1956 theory to account for the deformation of the skeleton, coupling mode matching technique, Bloch wave representation, and multiple scattering theory. This model is validated by comparing the derived absorption coefficients to finite element simulations. Numerical results are further exposed to investigate the influence of the properties of the inclusions (type, material properties, size) of this structure, while a modal analysis is performed to characterize the dynamic behaviors leading to high acoustic absorption. Particularly, in the case of thin viscoelastic membranes, an absorption coefficient larger than 0.8 is observed on a wide frequency band. This property is found to be due to the coupling between the first volume mode of the inclusion and the trapped mode induced by the periodic array and the rigid backing, for a wavelength in the air smaller than 11 times the material thickness.
The Ventilation-Corrected ParvoMedics TrueOne 2400 Provides a Valid and Reliable Assessment of Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) in Athletes Compared With the Douglas Bag Method
Authors: Woods Amy L. , Garvican-Lewis Laura A. , Rice Anthony J. , Thompson Kevin G.
Published: February 2016

The aim of the current study was to determine if a single ParvoMedics TrueOne 2400 metabolic cart provides valid and reliable measurement of RMR in comparison with the criterion Douglas Bag method (DB). Ten endurance-trained participants completed duplicate RMR measurements on 2 consecutive days using the ParvoMedics system in exercise mode, with the same expirate analyzed using DB. Typical error (TE) in mean RMR between the systems was 578.9 kJ or 7.5% (p = .01). In comparison with DB, the ParvoMedics system over-estimated RMR by 946.7 ± 818.6 kJ. The bias between systems resulted from ParvoMedics VE(STPD) values. A regression equation was developed to correct the bias, which reduced the difference to -83.3 ± 631.9 kJ. TE for the corrected ParvoMedics data were 446.8 kJ or 7.2% (p = .70). On Day 1, intraday reliability in mean RMR for DB was 286.8 kJ or 4.3%, (p = .54) and for ParvoMedicsuncorrected, 359.3 kJ or 4.4%, (p = .35), with closer agreement observed on Day 2. Interday reliability for DB was 455.3 kJ or 6.6% (p = .61) and for ParvoMedicsuncorrected, 390.2 kJ or 6.3% (p = .54). Similar intraday and interday TE was observed between ParvoMedicsuncorrected and ParvoMedicscorrected data. The ParvoMedics TrueOne 2400 provided valid and reliable RMR values compared with DB when the VE(STPD) error was corrected. This will enable widespread monitoring of RMR using the ParvoMedics system in a range of field-based settings when DB is not available.
Perspectives from man’s best friend: National Academy of Medicine’s Workshop on Comparative Oncology
Authors: LeBlanc Amy K. , Breen Matthew , Choyke Peter , Dewhirst Mark , Fan Timothy M. , Gustafson Daniel L. , Helman Lee J. , Kastan Michael B. , Knapp Deborah W. , Levin Wendy J. , London Cheryl , Mason Nicola , Mazcko Christina , Olson Patricia N. , Page Rodney , Teicher Beverly A. , Thamm Douglas H. , Trent Jeffrey M. , Vail David M. , Khanna Chand
Published: February 2016

Scientists gather to survey comparative oncology research and pinpoint potential contributions to human therapeutics.
Unraveling the Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the Nasopharyngeal Bacterial Community Structure
Authors: de Steenhuijsen Piters Wouter A. A. , Bogaert Debby
Published: February 2016

The upper respiratory tract is colonized by a diverse array of commensal bacteria that harbor potential pathogens, such as
Streptococcus pneumoniae
. As long as the local microbial ecosystem—also called “microbiome”—is in balance, these potentially pathogenic bacterial residents cause no harm to the host. However, similar to macrobiological ecosystems, when the bacterial community structure gets perturbed, potential pathogens can overtake the niche and cause mild to severe infections. Recent studies using next-generation sequencing show that
S. pneumoniae
, as well as other potential pathogens, might be kept at bay by certain commensal bacteria, including
Corynebacterium
and
Dolosigranulum
spp. Bomar and colleagues are the first to explore a specific biological mechanism contributing to the antagonistic interaction between
Corynebacterium accolens
and
S. pneumoniae
in vitro [L. Bomar, S. D. Brugger, B. H. Yost, S. S. Davies, K. P. Lemon, mBio 7(1):e01725-15, 2016, doi:10.1128/mBio.01725-15]. The authors comprehensively show that
C. accolens
is capable of hydrolyzing host triacylglycerols into free fatty acids, which display antipneumococcal properties, suggesting that these bacteria might contribute to the containment of pneumococcus. This work exemplifies how molecular epidemiological findings can lay the foundation for mechanistic studies to elucidate the host-microbe and microbial interspecies interactions underlying the bacterial community structure. Next, translation of these results to an
in vivo
setting seems necessary to unveil the magnitude and importance of the observed effect in its natural, polymicrobial setting.
Reconstruction of the Evolutionary History and Dispersal of Usutu Virus, a Neglected Emerging Arbovirus in Europe and Africa
Authors: Engel Dimitri , Jöst Hanna , Wink Michael , Börstler Jessica , Bosch Stefan , Garigliany Mutien-Marie , Jöst Artur , Czajka Christina , Lühken Renke , Ziegler Ute , Groschup Martin H. , Pfeffer Martin , Becker Norbert , Cadar Daniel , Schmidt-Chanasit Jonas
Published: February 2016

Usutu virus (USUV), one of the most neglected Old World encephalitic flaviviruses, causes epizootics among wild and captive birds and sporadic infection in humans. The dynamics of USUV spread and evolution in its natural hosts are unknown. Here, we present the phylogeny and evolutionary history of all available USUV strains, including 77 newly sequenced complete genomes from a variety of host species at a temporal and spatial scaled resolution. The results showed that USUV can be classified into six distinct lineages and that the most recent common ancestor of the recent European epizootics emerged in Africa at least 500 years ago. We demonstrated that USUV was introduced regularly from Africa into Europe in the last 50 years, and the genetic diversity of European lineages is shaped primarily by
in situ
evolution, while the African lineages have been driven by extensive gene flow. Most of the amino acid changes are deleterious polymorphisms removed by purifying selection, with adaptive evolution restricted to the NS5 gene and several others evolving under episodic directional selection, indicating that the ecological or immunological factors were mostly the key determinants of USUV dispersal and outbreaks. Host-specific mutations have been detected, while the host transition analysis identified mosquitoes as the most likely origin of the common ancestor and birds as the source of the recent European USUV lineages. Our results suggest that the major migratory bird flyways could predict the continental and intercontinental dispersal patterns of USUV and that migratory birds might act as potential long-distance dispersal vehicles.

IMPORTANCE
Usutu virus (USUV), a mosquito-borne flavivirus of the Japanese encephalitis virus antigenic group, caused massive bird die-offs, mostly in Europe. There is increasing evidence that USUV appears to be pathogenic for humans, becoming a potential public health problem. The emergence of USUV in Europe allows us to understand how an arbovirus spreads, adapts, and evolves in a naive environment. Thus, understanding the epidemiological and evolutionary processes that contribute to the emergence, maintenance, and further spread of viral diseases is the
sine qua non
to develop and implement surveillance strategies for their control. In this work, we performed an expansive phylogeographic and evolutionary analysis of USUV using all published sequences and those generated during this study. Subsequently, we described the genetic traits, reconstructed the potential pattern of geographic spread between continents/countries of the identified viral lineages and the drivers of viral migration, and traced the origin of outbreaks and transition events between different hosts.
Medication-related burden and patients’ lived experience with medicine: a systematic review and metasynthesis of qualitative studies
Authors: Mohammed Mohammed A , Moles Rebekah J , Chen Timothy F
Published: February 2016

Objective

To explore medication-related burden (MRB) and patients’ lived experience with medicines (PLEM) without regard to particular medication therapies or medical conditions.

Design

Systematic review and metasynthesis of qualitative studies.

Data sources

MEDLINE, EMBASE, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, PsycINFO, Global health, CINAHL and Web of Science were searched from January 2000 to August 2014 using medication burden and patients’ lived experience terms.

Synthesis methods

Synthesis was undertaken following metaethnography methods and a comparative thematic analysis technique.

Results

34 articles from 12 countries with a total of 1144 participants were included. 3 major inter-related themes emerged central to PLEM: MRB, medication related beliefs and medication taking practice. The negative impact of MRB, due to its interference on patients’ daily lives and effects on well-being, its influence on patients’ beliefs and behaviours, and a potential risk for drug-related problems (DRPs) was evident. This resulted in non-adherence and poorer outcomes (unachieved therapeutic goals and damage to patients’ health). Patients who experienced MRB interference in their life over time begin to juggle their medicines. Others continue their medicines despite experiencing MRB resulting in compromised physical, social or psychological well-being.

Conclusions

There is a shared commonality of PLEM among the studies. MRB plays a central role in influencing patients’ health and well-being, beliefs and behaviour towards medicines. Given the complexity of MRB and its impact evident from this review, there is a need for healthcare practitioners to have insight into PLEM in therapeutic care plans. Understanding PLEM is an opportunity for practitioners to identify particular MRBs that patients encounter, and provide individualised care through selection of therapeutic care plans that suit a patient's life. This may assist in helping to achieve patients’ medication-related needs, and improve medication therapy and health outcomes.
Mannose-binding lectin deficiency and predisposition to recurrent infection in adults
Authors: Holdaway Jenny , Deacock Sarah , Williams Peter , Karim Yousuf
Published: February 2016

Aims

The effects of mannose-binding lectin (MBL) deficiency are well known in children and in those with a compromised immune system. However, its effects in adults are debateable, with little research having been carried out in the UK regarding infection risk in otherwise healthy adults with an MBL deficiency.

Methods

Using an ELISA, we investigated the prevalence of MBL deficiency in both healthy adults and those with recurrent infection. The aim was to determine first if there was a disparity in MBL levels between the two groups and second to investigate the effect of severe deficiency.

Results

Overall, the difference between the two groups for MBL level was found not to be statistically significant (p=0.203); however, there was a higher prevalence of severe deficiency (MBL<75 ng/mL) in the patients with recurrent infection (p=0.03).

Conclusions

It was concluded that there is justified reason for continuing to perform the MBL test in adult patients suffering recurrent infection.
Computer-based-limited and personalised education management maximise appropriateness of vitamin D, vitamin B12 and folate retesting
Authors: Pelloso Michela , Basso Daniela , Padoan Andrea , Fogar Paola , Plebani Mario
Published: February 2016

Aim

To identify the best management strategy for improving the appropriateness of vitamin D, vitamin B12 and folate retesting.

Methods

The study was conducted between 3 November 2012 and 8 June 2015, with inpatients and outpatients being considered separately. After an observational reference period (3 November 2012 to 14 September 2013), an information technology (IT)-based permissive strategy (16 September 2013 to 27 July 2014) followed by a limiting strategy was used to manage the demand for inpatient retesting. For outpatients, an educational strategy period (28 July 2014 to 16 December 2014) with direct contact between medical personnel and general practitioners (GPs) was followed by a post-educational period without any restriction. Data from a total of 66 496 patients for vitamin D, 14 618 for vitamin B12 and 14 445 for folate were retrieved from the laboratory IT system. The main outcomes measures were inappropriate vitamin D, vitamin B12 and folate retesting. The minimal retesting intervals were 90 (vitamin D) or 180 days (vitamin B12 and folate).

Results

In the absence of a laboratory demand strategy, the frequency of inappropriate retesting for vitamin D, vitamin B12 and folate was 60%, 94% and 93%, respectively, for inpatients, and 27%, 87% and 87%, respectively, for outpatients. A limiting IT-based demand management strategy reduced inappropriate retesting for vitamin D (36%), but not for vitamin B12 and folate. The educational strategy was followed by a reduction in inappropriate retesting among outpatients (16% for vitamin D, 72% for vitamin B12 and folate).

Conclusions

Laboratory demand management based on an IT-limiting management strategy or on education of the referring physicians appears helpful in maximising appropriate retesting.
Energetic costs of activity in wild lake trout: a calibration study using acceleration transmitters and positional telemetry
Authors: Cruz-Font Liset , Shuter Brian J. , Blanchfield Paul J.
Published: February 2016

Acceleration telemetry transmitters offer the opportunity to estimate the cost of behaviours in free-ranging fishes, but a methodology to translate acceleration data into metabolic equivalents is still needed. This study extends previous calibration studies, explores how well tail-beat frequency transmitters fulfill their role, and presents a procedure to convert acceleration data into metabolic cost within a framework consistent with traditional fish bioenergetics models and thus facilitates comparisons of energetic costs between natural fish populations. These objectives were achieved by comparing data from lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) in a laboratory setting with data from three natural populations. In the laboratory, tail-beat frequency, acceleration values, and oxygen consumption increased progressively with swimming speed. In the wild, individual swimming speeds estimated from positional telemetry were consistently underestimated by, but positively related to, transmitter-based acceleration values. The proposed rationale to estimate metabolic rate from acceleration data accounts for variation in fish mass and environmental temperature. We demonstrated how this novel method permits comparison of metabolic costs associated with the levels of activity typical of lake trout living in two different lakes.
Estimation of the physical parameters of planets and stars in the gravitational equilibrium model
Authors: Fedosin Sergey G.
Published: February 2016

The motion equations of matter in a gravitational field, acceleration field, pressure field, and other fields are considered based on the field theory. This enables us to derive simple formulas in the framework of the gravitational equilibrium model, which allow us to estimate the physical parameters of cosmic bodies. The acceleration field coefficient, η, and the pressure field coefficient, σ, are a function of the state of matter, and their sum is close in magnitude to the gravitational constant, G. In the presented model the dependence is found of the internal temperature and pressure on the current radius. The central temperatures and pressures are calculated for the Earth and the Sun, for a typical neutron star and a white dwarf. The heat flux and the thermal conductivity coefficient of these objects’ matter are found, and the formula for estimating the entropy is provided. All the quantities are compared with the calculation results in different models of cosmic bodies. The discovered good agreement with these data proves the effectiveness and universality of the proposed model for estimating the parameters of planets and stars and for more precise calculation of physical quantities.
A Platform for Placement of Analog Integrated Circuits Using Satisfiability Modulo Theories
Authors: Saif Sherif M. , Dessouky Mohamed , El-Kharashi M. Watheq , Abbas Hazem , Nassar Salwa
Published: February 2016

Satisfiability modulo theories (SMT) is an area concerned with checking the satisfiability of logical formulas over one or more theories. SMT can be well tuned to solve several of the most intriguing problems in electronic design automation (EDA). Analog placers use physical constraints to automatically generate small sections of layout. The work presented in this paper shows that SMT solvers can be used for the automation of analog placement, given some physical constraints. We propose a tool that uses Microsoft Z3 SMT solver to find valid placement solutions for the given analog blocks. Accordingly, it generates multiple layouts that fulfill some given constraints and provides a variety of alternative layouts. The user has the option to choose one of the feasible solutions. The proposed system uses the quantifier-free linear real arithmetic (QFLRA), which makes the problem decidable. The proposed system is able to generate valid placement solutions for benchmarks. For benchmarks that have many constraints and few geometries, the proposed system achieves a speedup that is 10 times faster than other recently used approaches.
A high order predictor–corrector integration algorithm for first principle chemical dynamics simulations
Authors: Wu Heng , Lu Shaofei , Zhu Ningjia , Liu Jialin , Colmenares Eduardo , Lu Yin
Published: February 2016

H. Wu submitted the paper without having obtained permissions for submission from some of the co-authors or some of the major contributors, and hereby requested to retract the publication.
Generating Plans from Proofs
Authors: Benedikt Michael , Ten Cate Balder , Tsamoura Efthymia
Published: February 2016

We present algorithms for answering queries making use of information about source integrity constraints, access restrictions, and access costs. Our method can exploit the integrity constraints to find plans even when there is no direct access to relations appearing in the query. We look at different kinds of plans, depending on the kind of relational operators that are permitted within their commands. To each type of plan, we associate a semantic property that is necessary for having a plan of that type. The key idea of our method is to move from a search for a plan to a search for a proof of the corresponding semantic property, and then
generate a plan from a proof
. We provide algorithms for converting proofs to plans and show that they will find a plan of the desired type whenever such a plan exists. We show that while discovery of one proof allows us to find a single plan that answers the query, we can explore alternative proofs to find lower-cost plans.
An Omega((n log n)/R) Lower Bound for Fourier Transform Computation in the R-Well Conditioned Model
Authors: Ailon Nir
Published: February 2016

Obtaining a nontrivial (superlinear) lower bound for computation of the Fourier transform in the linear circuit model has been a long-standing open problem for more than 40 years. An early result by Morgenstern from 1973, provides an Ω(
n
log
n
) lower bound for the unnormalized Fourier transform when the constants used in the computation are bounded. The proof uses a potential function related to a determinant. That result does not explain why the normalized Fourier transform (of unit determinant) should be difficult to compute in the same model. Hence, it is not scale insensitive. More recently, Ailon [2013] showed that if only unitary 2-by-2 gates are used, and additionally no extra memory is allowed, then the normalized Fourier transform requires Ω(
n
log
n
) steps. This rather limited result is also sensitive to scaling, but highlights the complexity inherent in the Fourier transform arising from introducing entropy, unlike, say, the identity matrix (which is as complex as the Fourier transform using Morgenstern’s arguments, under proper scaling). This work improves on Ailon [2013] in two ways: First, we eliminate the scaling restriction and provide a lower bound for computing any scaling of the Fourier transform. Second, we allow the computational model to use extra memory. Our restriction is that the composition of all gates up to any point must be a well- conditioned linear transformation. The lower bound is Ω(
R
−1
n
log
n
), where
R
is the uniform condition number. Well-conditioned is a natural requirement for algorithms accurately computing linear transformations on machine architectures of bounded word size. Hence, this result can be seen as a tradeoff between speed and accuracy. The main technical contribution is an extension of matrix entropy used in Ailon [2013] for unitary matrices to a potential function computable for any invertible matrix, using “quasi-entropy” of “quasi-probabilities.”
Regulation of metabolism: the work-to-rest transition in skeletal muscle
Authors: Wilson David F.
Published: February 2016

The behavior of oxidative phosphorylation predicted by a model for the mechanism and kinetics of cytochrome c oxidase is compared with the experimentally observed behavior during the work-to-rest transition in skeletal muscle. For both experiment and model, when work stops, the increase in creatine phosphate and decrease in creatine and inorganic phosphate concentrations ([CrP], [Cr], and [Pi]) begin immediately. The rate of change for each is maximal and then progressively slows as the increasing energy state ([ATP]/[ADP][Pi]) suppresses the rate of oxidative phosphorylation. The time courses can be reasonably fitted to single exponential curves with similar time constants. The energy state in the working and resting steady states at constant Po2are dependent on the intramitochondrial [NAD+]/[NADH], mitochondrial content, and size of the creatine pool ([CrP] + [Cr]). The rate of change in [CrP] is linearly correlated with [CrP] and with [Pi] and [Cr]. The time constant for [CrP] increase in the resting and working steady states, and the rate of decrease in oxygen consumption are similarly dependent on the Po2in the inspired gas (experimental) or tissue Po2(model). Myoglobin strongly buffers intracellular Po2below ∼15 torr, truncating the low end of the oxygen distribution in the tissue and suppressing intra- and intermyocyte oxygen gradients. The predictions of the model are consistent with the experimental data throughout the work/rest transition, providing valuable insights into the regulation of cellular and tissue metabolism.
Genetic and pharmacological evidence for low-abundance TRPV3 expression in primary vagal afferent neurons
Authors: Wu Shaw-wen , Lindberg Jonathan E. M. , Peters James H.
Published: February 2016

Primary vagal afferent neurons express a multitude of thermosensitive ion channels. Within this family of ion channels, the heat-sensitive capsaicin receptor (TRPV1) greatly influences vagal afferent signaling by determining the threshold for action-potential initiation at the peripheral endings, while controlling temperature-sensitive forms of glutamate release at central vagal terminals. Genetic deletion of TRPV1 does not completely eliminate these temperature-dependent effects, suggesting involvement of additional thermosensitive ion channels. The warm-sensitive, calcium-permeable, ion channel TRPV3 is commonly expressed with TRPV1; however, the extent to which TRPV3 is found in vagal afferent neurons is unknown. Here, we begin to characterize the genetic and functional expression of TRPV3 in vagal afferent neurons using molecular biology (RT-PCR and RT-quantitative PCR) in whole nodose and isolated neurons and fluorescent calcium imaging on primary cultures of nodose ganglia neurons. We confirmed low-level TRPV3 expression in vagal afferent neurons and observed direct activation with putative TRPV3 agonists eugenol, ethyl vanillin (EVA), and farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP). Agonist activation stimulated neurons also containing TRPV1 and was blocked by ruthenium red. FPP sensitivity overlapped with EVA and eugenol but represented the smallest percentage of vagal afferent neurons, and it was the only agonist that did not stimulate neurons from TRPV3−/−1 mice, suggesting FPP has the highest selectivity. Further, FPP was predictive of enhanced responses to capsaicin, EVA, and eugenol in rats. From our results, we conclude TRPV3 is expressed in a discrete subpopulation of vagal afferent neurons and may contribute to vagal afferent signaling either directly or in combination with TRPV1.
Pooled, but not single-neuron, responses in macaque V4 represent a solution to the stereo correspondence problem
Authors: Abdolrahmani (ﻣﺤﻤﺪ ﻋﺒﺪاﻟﺮﺣﻤﻨﯽ) Mohammad , Doi (土井隆弘) Takahiro , Shiozaki (塩崎博史) Hiroshi M. , Fujita (藤田一郎) Ichiro
Published: February 2016

Binocular disparity is an important cue for depth perception. To correctly represent disparity, neurons must find corresponding visual features between the left- and right-eye images. The visual pathway ascending from V1 to inferior temporal cortex solves the correspondence problem. An intermediate area, V4, has been proposed to be a critical stage in the correspondence process. However, the distinction between V1 and V4 is unclear, because accumulating evidence suggests that the process begins within V1. In this article, we report that the pooled responses in macaque V4, but not responses of individual neurons, represent a solution to the correspondence problem. We recorded single-unit responses of V4 neurons to random-dot stereograms of varying degrees of anticorrelation. To achieve gradual anticorrelation, we reversed the contrast of an increasing proportion of dots as in our previous psychophysical studies, which predicted that the neural correlates of the solution to correspondence problem should gradually eliminate their disparity modulation as the level of anticorrelation increases. Inconsistent with this prediction, the tuning amplitudes of individual V4 neurons quickly decreased to a nonzero baseline with small anticorrelation. By contrast, the shapes of individual tuning curves changed more gradually so that the amplitude of population-pooled responses gradually decreased toward zero over the entire range of graded anticorrelation. We explain these results by combining multiple energy-model subunits. From a comparison with the population-pooled responses in V1, we suggest that disparity representation in V4 is distinctly advanced from that in V1. Population readout of V4 responses provides disparity information consistent with the correspondence solution.
Neural spike-timing patterns vary with sound shape and periodicity in three auditory cortical fields
Authors: Lee Christopher M. , Osman Ahmad F. , Volgushev Maxim , Escabí Monty A. , Read Heather L.
Published: February 2016

Mammals perceive a wide range of temporal cues in natural sounds, and the auditory cortex is essential for their detection and discrimination. The rat primary (A1), ventral (VAF), and caudal suprarhinal (cSRAF) auditory cortical fields have separate thalamocortical pathways that may support unique temporal cue sensitivities. To explore this, we record responses of single neurons in the three fields to variations in envelope shape and modulation frequency of periodic noise sequences. Spike rate, relative synchrony, and first-spike latency metrics have previously been used to quantify neural sensitivities to temporal sound cues; however, such metrics do not measure absolute spike timing of sustained responses to sound shape. To address this, in this study we quantify two forms of spike-timing precision, jitter, and reliability. In all three fields, we find that jitter decreases logarithmically with increase in the basis spline (B-spline) cutoff frequency used to shape the sound envelope. In contrast, reliability decreases logarithmically with increase in sound envelope modulation frequency. In A1, jitter and reliability vary independently, whereas in ventral cortical fields, jitter and reliability covary. Jitter time scales increase (A1 < VAF < cSRAF) and modulation frequency upper cutoffs decrease (A1 > VAF > cSRAF) with ventral progression from A1. These results suggest a transition from independent encoding of shape and periodicity sound cues on short time scales in A1 to a joint encoding of these same cues on longer time scales in ventral nonprimary cortices.
Neural timing signal for precise tactile timing judgments
Authors: Kuroki Scinob , Watanabe Junji , Nishida Shin'ya
Published: February 2016

The brain can precisely encode the temporal relationship between tactile inputs. While behavioural studies have demonstrated precise interfinger temporal judgments, the underlying neural mechanism remains unknown. Computationally, two kinds of neural responses can act as the information source. One is the phase-locked response to the phase of relatively slow inputs, and the other is the response to the amplitude change of relatively fast inputs. To isolate the contributions of these components, we measured performance of a synchrony judgment task for sine wave and amplitude-modulation (AM) wave stimuli. The sine wave stimulus was a low-frequency sinusoid, with the phase shifted in the asynchronous stimulus. The AM wave stimulus was a low-frequency sinusoidal AM of a 250-Hz carrier, with only the envelope shifted in the asynchronous stimulus. In the experiment, three stimulus pairs, two synchronous ones and one asynchronous one, were sequentially presented to neighboring fingers, and participants were asked to report which one was the asynchronous pair. We found that the asynchrony of AM waves could be detected as precisely as single impulse pair, with the threshold asynchrony being ∼20 ms. On the other hand, the asynchrony of sine waves could not be detected at all in the range from 5 to 30 Hz. Our results suggest that the timing signal for tactile judgments is provided not by the stimulus phase information but by the envelope of the response of the high-frequency-sensitive Pacini channel (PC), although they do not exclude a possible contribution of the envelope of non-PCs.
Gα14 subunit-mediated inhibition of voltage-gated Ca2+ and K+ channels via neurokinin-1 receptors in rat celiac-superior mesenteric ganglion neurons
Authors: Sugino Shigekazu , Farrag Mohamed , Ruiz-Velasco Victor
Published: February 2016

The mechanisms by which G proteins modulate voltage-gated Ca2+ channel currents (CaV), particularly CaV2.2 and CaV2.3, are voltage dependent (VD) or voltage independent (VI). VD pathways are typically mediated by Gαi/o and GαS subfamilies. On the other hand, VI inhibition modulation is coupled to the Gαq subfamily and signaling pathways downstream of phospholipase C stimulation. In most studies, this latter pathway has been shown to be linked to Gαq and/or Gα11 protein subunits. However, there are no studies that have examined whether natively expressed Gα14 subunits (Gαq subfamily member) couple G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) with CaV2.2 channels. We report that Gα14 subunits functionally couple the substance P (SP)/neurokinin-1 (NK-1) receptor pathway to CaV2.2 channels in acutely dissociated rat celiac-superior mesenteric ganglion (CSMG) neurons. Exposure of CSMG neurons to SP blocked the CaV2.2 currents in a predominantly VD manner that was pertussis toxin and cholera toxin resistant, as well as Gαq/11 independent. However, silencing Gα14 subunits significantly attenuated the SP-mediated Ca2+ current block. In another set of experiments, exposure of CSMG neurons to SP led to the inhibition of KCNQ K+ M-currents. The SP-mediated M-current block was significantly reduced in neurons transfected with Gα14 small-interference RNA. Finally, overexpression of the GTP-bound Gαq/11 binding protein RGS2 did not alter the block of M-currents by SP but significantly abolished the oxotremorine methiodide-mediated M-current inhibition. Taken together, these results provide evidence of a new Gα14-coupled signaling pathway that modulates CaV2.2 and M-currents via SP-stimulated NK-1 receptors in CSMG neurons.
On a Kantorovich Variant of(p,q)-Szász-Mirakjan Operators
Authors: Mursaleen M. , Alotaibi Abdullah , Ansari Khursheed J.
Published: February 2016

We propose a Kantorovich variant of(p,q)-analogue of Szász-Mirakjan operators. We establish the moments of the operators with the help of a recurrence relation that we have derived and then prove the basic convergence theorem. Next, the local approximation and weighted approximation properties of these new operators in terms of modulus of continuity are studied.
Quantum Analysis on Time Behavior of a Lengthening Pendulum
Authors: Choi Jeong Ryeol , Song Ji Nny
Published: February 2016

Quantum properties of a lengthening pendulum are studied under the assumption that the length of the string increases at a steady rate. Advanced analysis for various physical problems in several types of quantum states, such as propagators, Wigner distribution functions, energy eigenvalues, probability densities, and dispersions of physical quantities, is carried out using quantum wave functions of the system. In particular, the time behavior of Gaussian-type wave packets is investigated in detail. The probability density for a Gaussian wave packet displaced in the positive θ at t=0 oscillates back and forth from the center (θ=0). This phenomenon is very similar to the classical motion of the pendulum. As a consequence, we can confirm that there is a correspondence between its quantum and classical behaviors. When we analyze a dynamical system in view of quantum mechanics, the quantum and classical correspondence is very important in order for the associated quantum theory to be valid and viable.
Exactech Opteon Femoral Component Fracture 12 Years after Arthroplasty
Authors: Patel Shaun P. , Antoci Valentin , Kadzielski John J. , Vrahas Mark S.
Published: February 2016

Arthroplasty implant fracture is a rare but critical complication that requires difficult revision surgery, often with poor results, patient disability, and significant cost. Several reports show component fracture either at the stem or at the neck interface after a relatively short postoperative course. We report such failure after 12 years, suggesting no safe period after which femoral implant fracture does not occur.
Synthesis of Polyformate Esters of Vegetable Oils: Milkweed, Pennycress, and Soy
Authors: Harry-O’kuru Rogers E. , Biresaw Girma , Tisserat Brent , Evangelista Roque
Published: February 2016

In a previous study of the characteristics of acyl derivatives of polyhydroxy milkweed oil (PHMWO), it was observed that the densities and viscosities of the respective derivatives decreased with increased chain length of the substituent acyl group. Thus from the polyhydroxy starting material, attenuation in viscosity of the derivatives relative to PHMWO was found in the order: PHMWO ≫ PAcMWE ≫ PBuMWE ≫ PPMWE (2332 : 1733 : 926.2 : 489.4 cSt, resp., at 40°C), where PAcMWE, PBuMWE, and PPMWE were the polyacetyl, polybutyroyl, and polypentanoyl ester derivatives, respectively. In an analogous manner, the densities also decreased as the chain length increased although not as precipitously compared to the viscosity drop. By inference, derivatives of vegetable oils with short chain length substituents on the triglyceride would be attractive in lubricant applications in view of their higher densities and possibly higher viscosity indices. Pursuant to this, we have explored the syntheses of formyl esters of three vegetable oils in order to examine the optimal density, viscosity, and related physical characteristics in relation to their suitability as lubricant candidates. In the absence of ready availability of formic anhydride, we opted to employ the epoxidized vegetable oils as substrates for formyl ester generation using glacial formic acid. The epoxy ring-opening process was smooth but was apparently followed by a simultaneous condensation reaction of the putativeα-hydroxy formyl intermediate to yield vicinal diformyl esters from the oxirane. All three polyformyl esters milkweed, soy, and pennycress derivatives exhibited low coefficient of friction and a correspondingly much lower wear scar in the 4-ball antiwear test compared to the longer chain acyl analogues earlier studied.
Effect of Combination of Chinese Herbal Medicine versus Western Medicine on Mortality in Patients after Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Guo Wenxiu , Lu Xiaoguang , Wang Dalong , Chen Tuo , Fan Zhiwei , Song Yi
Published: February 2016

Introduction. Although Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) treatment combined with conventional western therapy has been widely used and reported in many clinical trials in China, there is uncertainty about the efficacy of this combination in the treatment of patients after cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). This systematic review aimed to assess whether the risk of mortality has decreased comparing the combination of CHM treatment with conventional western therapy. Methods. To identify relevant studies, the literature search was conducted in Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Library, CBM, CNKI, VIP, and Wanfang database. We included all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared outcomes of patients after CPR taking combination of CHM treatment with those taking just conventional western therapy. Results. This meta‐analysis showed that patients randomly assigned to combined CHM treatment group had a statistically significant 23% reduction in mortality compared with those randomly assigned to conventional western therapy group (RR: 0.77; 95% CI: 0.70–0.84). Conclusions. This meta‐analysis provides evidence suggesting that a combined CHM therapy is associated with a decreased risk of mortality compared with conventional western therapy in patients after CPR. Further studies are needed to provide more evidence to prove or refute our conclusion and identify reasons for the reduction of mortality.