bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Venous sinus stenting for idiopathic intracranial hypertension is not associated with cortical venous occlusion
Authors: Levitt Michael R , Albuquerque Felipe C , Ducruet Andrew F , Kalani M Yashar S , Mulholland Celene B , McDougall Cameron G
Published: April 2015

Background

The effect of dural venous sinus stenting has been investigated for the treatment of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) but the effect of stenting on the long-term patency of the cortical draining veins, especially the vein of Labbé (VOL), remains unknown.

Methods

We reviewed our database of 38 patients with IIH with 41 stented dural venous sinuses between October 2006 and December 2014. Demographic, clinical, and radiological data were reviewed. Follow-up catheter angiographic data were included when available.

Results

Stent placement spanned the ostium of the VOL in 35 patients (92.1%), with no immediate effect on the drainage of the VOL. Follow-up angiography (mean 35.1 months, range 1.7–80.7 months) was available in 24 patients, 21 of whom had stents spanning the VOL ostium. The VOL remained patent without occlusion or drainage alteration in all 21 patients. There were no immediate or long-term intracranial complications.

Conclusions

Dural venous sinus stenting for patients with IIH does not affect the immediate or long-term patency of the VOL and is not associated with intracranial complications.
Prosthetic aortic valve selection: current patient experience, preferences and knowledge
Authors: Korteland Nelleke M , Bras Frans J , van Hout Fabienne M A , Kluin Jolanda , Klautz Robert J M , Bogers Ad J J C , Takkenberg Johanna J M
Published: April 2015

Objective

Current clinical practice guidelines advocate shared decision-making (SDM) in prosthetic valve selection. This study assesses among adult patients accepted for aortic valve replacement (AVR): (1) experience with current clinical decision-making regarding prosthetic valve selection, (2) preferences for SDM and risk presentation and (3) prosthetic valve knowledge and numeracy.

Methods

In a prospective multicentre cohort study, AVR patients were surveyed preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively.

Results

132 patients (89 males/43 females; mean age 67 years (range 23–86)) responded preoperatively. Decisional conflict was observed in 56% of patients, and in 25% to such an extent that it made them feel unsure about the decision. 68% wanted to be involved in decision-making, whereas 53% agreed that they actually were. 69% were able to answer three basic knowledge questions concerning prosthetic valves correctly. 56% were able to answer three basic numeracy questions correctly. Three months postsurgery, 90% (n=110) were satisfied with their aortic valve prosthesis, with no difference between mechanical and bioprosthetic valve recipients.

Conclusions

In current clinical practice, many AVR patients experience decisional conflict and suboptimal involvement in prosthetic valve selection, and exhibit impaired knowledge concerning prosthetic valves and numeracy. Given the broad support for SDM among AVR patients and the obvious need for understandable information, to-be-developed tools to support SDM in the setting of prosthetic valve selection will help to improve quality of decision-making, better inform and actively involve patients, and reduce decisional conflict.

Trial registration number

NTR3618.
Learning down under
Authors: Styles Laura
Published: April 2015

Laura Styles works for Study Options, a service that advises vets and students on options for further study in Australia and New Zealand
On the Construction of Public Key Encryption with Sender Recovery
Authors: Wei Puwen , Zheng Yuliang
Published: April 2015

This paper investigates public key encryption that has a desirable feature of allowing the sender of a ciphertext to recover the original plaintext from the ciphertext with-out relying on a recipient's private decryption key (PKE-SR). We propose two efficient methods for converting KEM/DEM (key encapsulation mechanisms/data encapsulation mechanisms) to PKE-SR. The first method, called pre-KEM seeding, can be applied to a large class of KEM/DEM constructions including those based on the discrete logarithm problem. Following the idea of pre-KEM seeding, we propose an efficient PKE-SR using DHIES, which has only one more additional element of length 160-bit in ciphertext than that of the original DHIES. Furthermore, we show that PKE-SR can be constructed from identity based encryptions using the method of pre-KEM seeding. The second method, called post-KEM converging, is more powerful and can be employed to convert any secure KEM/DEM into a secure PKE-SR. Post-KEM converging takes advantages of an interesting property, called collision accessibility, of sibling intractable hashing. For both methods, added costs in ciphertext length and computation are minimal, making them a particularly attractive “drop-in” replacement in applications where plaintexts need to be recovered efficiently by the sender alone. We further explore the problem of constructing PKE-SR without redundancy and show such a construction for one-bit encryptions.
A Note on Optimal Constant Dimension Codes
Authors: Liao Qunying , Zhu Juan
Published: April 2015

In this paper, we study bounds for optimal constant dimension codes further. By revising the construction for constant dimension codes in [4], we improve some bounds on q-ary constant dimension codes in some cases. By combinatorial method, we show that there exists no optimal constant dimension code Aq[n, 2δ, k] meeting both Wang-Xing-Safavi-Naini-Bound and the maximal distance separate bound simultaneously.
Principal subspaces of higher-level standard $\widehat{\mathfrak{sl}(n)}$-modules
Authors: Sadowski Christopher
Published: April 2015

Using completions of certain universal enveloping algebras, we provide a natural setting for families of defining relations for the principal subspaces of standard modules for untwisted affine Lie algebras. We also use the theory of vertex operator algebras and intertwining operators to construct exact sequences among principal subspaces of certain standard [Formula: see text]-modules, n ≥ 3. As a consequence, we obtain the multigraded dimensions of the principal subspaces W(k1Λ1 + k2Λ2) and W(kn-2Λn-2 + kn-1Λn-1). This generalizes earlier work by Calinescu on principal subspaces of standard [Formula: see text]-modules.
The asymptotic behavior of the Bresse–Cattaneo system
Authors: Said-Houari Belkacem , Hamadouche Taklit
Published: April 2015

In this paper, we investigate the decay properties of the Bresse–Cattaneo system in the whole space. We show that the coupling of the Bresse system with the heat conduction of the Cattaneo theory leads to a loss of regularity of the solution and we prove that the decay rate of the solution is very slow. In fact, we show that the [Formula: see text]-norm of the solution decays with the rate of [Formula: see text]. The behavior of solutions depends on a certain number [Formula: see text] (which is the same stability number for the Timoshenko–Cattaneo system [Damping by heat conduction in the Timoshenko system: Fourier and Cattaneo are the same, J. Differential Equations 255(4) (2013) 611–632; The stability number of the Timoshenko system with second sound, J. Differential Equations 253(9) (2012) 2715–2733]) which is a function of the parameters of the system. In addition, we show that we obtain the same decay rate as the one of the solution for the Bresse–Fourier model [The Bresse system in thermoelasticity, to appear in Math. Methods Appl. Sci.].
Existence theorems for the quantum drift–diffusion equations with mixed boundary conditions
Authors: Xu Xiangsheng
Published: April 2015

In this paper, we construct a weak solution to the unipolar quantum drift–diffusion equations coupled with initial and mixed boundary conditions in up to four space dimensions. We only assume that the boundary of the domain is Lipschitz and the interface between the Dirichlet boundary and the Neumann boundary is a Lipschitzian hypersurface, and thus the lack of high regularity for solutions of such problems is an issue. The convergence of a sequence of approximate solutions is established via an application of a recent theorem by the author on the logarithmic upper bound for solutions of elliptic equations with the same type of boundary conditions [Logarithmic up bounds for solutions of elliptic partial differential equations, Proc. Amer. Math. Soc. 139 (2011) 3485–3490].
On axiomatic approaches to intertwining operator algebras
Authors: Chen Ling
Published: April 2015

We study intertwining operator algebras introduced and constructed by Huang. In the case that the intertwining operator algebras involve intertwining operators among irreducible modules for their vertex operator subalgebras, a number of results on intertwining operator algebras were given in [Y.-Z. Huang, Generalized rationality and a “Jacobi identity” for intertwining operator algebras, Selecta Math. (N.S.) 6 (2000) 225–267] but some of the proofs were postponed to an unpublished monograph. In this paper, we give the proofs of these results in [Y.-Z. Huang, Generalized rationality and a “Jacobi identity” for intertwining operator algebras, Selecta Math. (N.S.) 6 (2000) 225–267] and we formulate and prove results for general intertwining operator algebras without assuming that the modules involved are irreducible. In particular, we construct fusing and braiding isomorphisms for general intertwining operator algebras and prove that they satisfy the genus-zero Moore–Seiberg equations. We show that the Jacobi identity for intertwining operator algebras is equivalent to generalized rationality, commutativity and associativity properties of intertwining operator algebras. We introduce the locality for intertwining operator algebras and show that the Jacobi identity is equivalent to the locality, assuming that other axioms hold. Moreover, we establish that any two of the three properties, associativity, commutativity and skew-symmetry, imply the other (except that when deriving skew-symmetry from associativity and commutativity, more conditions are needed). Finally, we show that three definitions of intertwining operator algebras are equivalent.
MULTIFUNCTIONAL TITANIUM: SURFACE MODIFICATION PROCESS AND BIOLOGICAL RESPONSE
Authors: SPRIANO S. , FERRARIS S. , PAN G. , CASSINELLI C. , VERNÈ E.
Published: April 2015

A proper stimulation of the cell activity is the last request to the new biomaterials, intended for bone substitution and osseointegration. In this regard, the scientific literature suggests that the surface modification on a nanoscale is a major source of innovation. The nano features and multiscale topographies can stimulate cell differentiation and activity. Moreover, the presence of specific biological molecules grafted onto the biosurfaces can properly stimulate cells to tissue regeneration. The final aim is to promote a fast and physiological bone healing, at the implant site. In order to be suitable for implantation, the modified surfaces must sustain the implantation and working load/friction without damages. Two different innovative surface modifications of the Ti6Al4V alloy were tested in this research. The first one is an inorganic modification and it is aimed at inducing in vivo apatite precipitation (inorganic bioactivity) and cell interaction through nano features. The modified surface shows a complex topography (micro and nanoroughness), a modified surface chemistry (high density of hydroxyls groups), high wettability and protein absorption. Moreover, an additional biological modification by grafting of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was tested. The modified surfaces were compared with the traditional polished and blasted ones, in terms of osteoblast adhesion, proliferation and morphology. A significant increase in the cell proliferation rate was observed on the modified materials. Moreover, the osteoblasts showed a more differentiated aspect and filopodia exploring the nanotextures on both the treated materials.
USE OF DIGITAL IMAGE CORRELATION TO INVESTIGATE THE BIOMECHANICS OF THE VERTEBRA
Authors: PALANCA MARCO , BRUGO TOMMASO MARIA , CRISTOFOLINI LUCA
Published: April 2015

Digital image correlation (DIC) is being introduced to the biomechanical field. However, as DIC relies on a number of major assumptions, it requires a careful optimization in order to obtain accurate and precise results. The first step was the preparation of the speckle pattern by an airbrush spray gun following a factorial design to explore the different settings: the different speckle patterns created were analyzed to achieve the optimal speckle size, with minimal dispersion of speckle sizes. A benchmark test, with an aluminum specimen prepared with the speckle pattern, was conducted in which the errors affecting the computed strain were measured in a zero-displacement, zero-strain condition. The software parameters (facet size, step, and local regression) were singularly analyzed in order to understand their behavior on the final output. Moreover, the hardware parameters (camera gain, exposure, lens distortion) were analyzed. The output showed that a careful optimization allowed the reducing the systematic and random errors, respectively, from 150 to 10 microstrain and from 600 to 110 microstrain. Finally, the acquired know-how was applied to a biological specimen (human vertebra).
STRAIN ANALYSIS OF CARDIAC TISSUES FROM 3D ULTRASOUND IMAGES USING SNAKES AND SPECKLE TRACKING
Authors: LANCONELLI NICO , MASETTI SIMONE , NARDINOCCHI PAOLA , TERESI LUCIANO , PUDDU PAOLO EMILIO , TORROMEO CONCETTA , GIGLIO VINCENZO
Published: April 2015

In this paper, we are presenting a method for achieving strain analysis of cardiac tissues from 3D ultrasound images. First of all, the left ventricle was segmented by an iterative snake algorithm which exploits the gradient vector flow field estimated from the 3D images. Once the ventricle was segmented, a set of points located on the external surface of the ventricle was selected. The movement of all these points along the entire cardiac cycle was calculated by using speckle tracking techniques. The strain of all the segments connecting two of the considered points was computed, together with the rotation of the points along the long axis of the ventricle. The method was tested on images acquired from 10 subjects: three with heart pathologies, five healthy subjects, and two patients with mild hypertrophy. Preliminary results showed the feasibility of characterizing healthy subjects and patients with well-defined heart pathologies by using the outcomes achieved with the strain analysis.
MODELING OF HIP PROSTHESES FOR USE IN RADIOTHERAPY PLANNING: VALIDATION OF A PHOTOGRAMMETRY TECHNIQUE
Authors: ZAGNI F. , BARUFFALDI F. , BORDINI B. , STEA S. , VANINI R. , ROMANI F. , MARENGO M.
Published: April 2015

Treatment planning for external beams radiotherapy for patients with metallic hip prosthesis is often difficult, in particular with regards to the contouring process, in case of poor CT imaging. This may result in inaccurate dosimetry for the femoral bone and regions next to it. In this work an alternative method to obtain more accurate prosthetic contourings, based on photogrammetry, was developed. More precisely, the process of 3D modeling of a femoral prosthetic component and the conversion to DICOM was developed, plus the effective employment in a treatment planning system was evaluated. Validation of the obtained model was performed by comparing several cross sections against experimental measurements. Comparison resulted in very low deviations, showing good accuracy of the photogrammetry technique, despite the high asymmetry of the object. The tests conducted in a research TPS indicate that models obtained with the proposed method are able to provide additional information in order to better characterize such prosthetic implants.
ANALYSIS OF SURFACE EMG SIGNALS UNDER FATIGUE AND NON-FATIGUE CONDITIONS USING B-DISTRIBUTION BASED QUADRATIC TIME FREQUENCY DISTRIBUTION
Authors: KARTHICK P. A. , VENUGOPAL G. , RAMAKRISHNAN S.
Published: April 2015

In this paper, an attempt has been made to analyze surface electromyography (sEMG) signals under non-fatigue and fatigue conditions using time-frequency based features. The sEMG signals are recorded from biceps brachii muscle of 50 healthy volunteers under well-defined protocol. The pre-processed signals are divided into six equal epochs. The first and last segments are considered as non-fatigue and fatigue zones respectively. Further, these signals are subjected to B-distribution based quadratic time-frequency distribution (TFD). Time frequency based features such as instantaneous median frequency (IMDF) and instantaneous mean frequency (IMNF) are extracted. The expression of spectral entropy is modified to obtain instantaneous spectral entropy (ISPEn) from the time-frequency spectrum. The results show that all the extracted features are distinct in both conditions. It is also observed that the values of all features are higher in non-fatigue zone compared to fatigue condition. It appears that this method is useful in analysing various neuromuscular conditions using sEMG signals.
NEW FRONTIERS FOR MUSCLE FUNCTION INVESTIGATION: INTEGRATION OF SURFACE EMG AND 3D ECOGRAPHIC IMAGES
Authors: BISI MARIA CRISTINA , BOTTER ALBERTO , STAGNI RITA , VIEIRA TAIAN
Published: April 2015

Muscle architectural changes, induced by changes in joint position, can influence the amplitude distribution of surface electromyograms (EMGs). By combining grids of electrodes, ultra sound (US) imaging and three-dimensional (3D) kinematics, the relative contribution of different anatomical factors (e.g., pinnation angle, muscle thickness) on EMG features may be quantified. The aim of this paper was to explore the potentiality of this technique in the analysis of how much muscle architectural changes, induced by changes in joint position, can influence the EMG amplitude distribution. While provided with EMG visual-feedback, a participant was asked to recruit a single motor unit of the right tibialis anterior (TA) muscle at two different ankle positions. Surface EMGs, kinematic data and US images were acquired. The spatial distribution of the amplitude of motor unit action potentials was assessed from EMGs. Ankle angles were obtained from 3D kinematics. TA width and thickness variations between the two ankle positions were obtained through the segmentation of US images reconstructed in 3D space. When compared with ankle at plantar flexion, ankle at neutral position resulted in greater TA width and thickness, as well as, in more widely distributed EMG amplitude. These results suggest TA architecture may markedly affect the amplitude distribution of surface EMGs.
COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF RESORBABLE AND TITANIUM MINIPLATES USED FOR FIXATION OF MANDIBULAR CONDYLE FRACTURES
Authors: CANSIZ EROL , DOGRU SUZAN CANSEL , ARSLAN YUNUS ZIYA
Published: April 2015

In this paper, comparative evaluation of the mechanical properties of resorbable and titanium miniplates, which are used for the fixation of the mandibular condyle fractures, was carried out using finite element analysis (FEA). To do so, first two-dimensional (2D) computed tomography (CT) images of mandibles recorded from 10 adult patients were converted into three-dimensional (3D) solid body models. Then these models were transferred to the finite element software. In the finite element stage of the study, a condyle fracture was created onto the mandible and double-titanium and double-resorbable miniplates were separately fixed to the mandible surface such that the fractured sites to be firmly attached. Stress distribution over the plates and interfragmentary displacements between adjacent surfaces, which stem from the clenching force applying to the mandible, were calculated using FEA. It was observed from the results that maximum tensile stresses occurred in the titanium miniplates were significantly higher than those obtained from resorbable miniplates (p < 0.01). Higher maximum displacements between fractured surfaces were observed in the case of resorbable plate systems (p < 0.01). Maximum stress and displacement values obtained from both titanium and resorbable plate systems were under clinically acceptable limits. According to results, resorbable plates showed a similar reliability with titanium miniplates in terms of withstanding various stress and strain deformations.
INVESTIGATION ON THE EFFECTS INDUCED BY TKA FEATURES ON TIBIO-FEMORAL MECHANICS PART II: TIBIAL INSERT DESIGNS
Authors: PIANIGIANI SILVIA , BERNABÉ RAQUEL ALARIO , YAGÜE HÉCTOR ROBLEDO , INNOCENTI BERNARDO
Published: April 2015

Posterior-stabilized (PS) prosthesis have been widely used in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgery during the last three decades generally reporting excellent results in long-term studies. Nevertheless, when the patient has nonstable knee envelope, it may require larger degree of restriction in order to manage knee instability. The Semi-constrained version of the PS prosthesis is then introduced, as primary or revision implant, enlarging the size of the post so as to be more restrictive. However, there is a lack of trust from surgeons in this last version based on the intuitive fear that its larger post could lead to higher forces and, therefore, to a premature failure of the post-cam mechanism of the prosthesis. To try to answer this question, the post-cam engagement of both designs have been studied under two daily activities, walking and squatting, by means of a finite element analysis (FEA). Kinematics and contact pressures have been evaluated in order to analyze the efforts supported by the prosthesis. The results obtained have shown a change on the kinematics especially along anterior–posterior (AP) direction as well as an increase of contact forces on the post of the semi-constrained design.
ELECTROMYOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS OF LEG EXTENSION EXERCISE DURING DIFFERENT ANKLE AND KNEE POSITIONS
Authors: BELLI GUIDO , VITALI LUCA , BOTTEGHI MATTEO , VITTORI LEYDI NATALIA , PETRACCI ELISABETTA , MAIETTA LATESSA PASQUALINO
Published: April 2015

The imbalance between vastus medialis oblique (VMO) and vastus lateralis (VL) strength is one of the main factor for patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) onset, related to improper alignment of the patella. The aim of this paper is to investigate the effects of knee flexion, knee rotation and ankle flexion attitudes on the activity of the VMO and VL muscles during unilateral maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MIVC) of the quadriceps femoris. Eighteen healthy subjects volunteered for the study. Five conditions for two different knee flexion angles (90°; 30°) were tested using leg extension machine: Neutral (N) condition, maximal knee medial rotation (MR), maximal knee lateral rotation (LR), maximal ankle plantarflexion (PF) and maximal ankle dorsiflexion (DF). Data were normalized in order to calculate the normalized VMO/VL ratio. The normalized VMO/VL ratio for all the conditions occurred at 90° of knee flexion was higher than the same conditions at 30° of knee flexion (p = 0.02). No statistical differences between conditions at the same knee angle and for angle x condition interaction were observed (p > 0.05). These findings suggest that knee flexion should be the first variable to be managed during isometric knee extension movement performed by leg extension machine, in order to increase VMO/VL ratio.
Constructing totally interpolating wavelet frame systems
Authors: Li Baobin
Published: April 2015

The system of totally interpolating wavelet frames is discussed in this paper, in which both the scaling function and one of wavelet functions are interpolating. It will be shown that corresponding filter banks possess the special structure, and the parametrization of filter banks is present. Moreover, we show that when considering tight frame systems with two generators, the Ron–Shen's continuous-linear-spline-based tight frame is the only one with totally interpolating property and symmetry. But in the dual frame context, more good examples of bi-frames with symmetric/antisymmetric property can be obtained and constructed, which in particular, include frames with the uniform symmetry.
New Perspectives on Capacity Utilization: From Moving Assembly Lines to Computer-Based Control Systems
Authors: Fevolden Arne Martin
Published: April 2015

This paper investigates how our understanding of capacity utilization has changed over the last two centuries. By reviewing contemporary and historical literature, it argues that two perspectives on capacity utilization developed during this period — a "traditional" and a "modern" perspective. It finds that the "traditional" perspective was prevalent up until WWI and focused on mass production and managerial control as means to maintain a high level of capacity utilization, while the "modern" perception took form after WWI and could be described partially as reaction to and partially as an extension of the traditional perspective. The paper argues that the modern perspective made the concept of capacity utilization more relevant and useful — by demonstrating how it could be applied to other sectors of the economy than manufacturing and how computer-based technologies rather than managerial control could be used to improve capacity utilization.
On projective invariants of spherically symmetric Finsler spaces in Rn
Authors: Sadeghzadeh Nasrin , Hesamfar Maedeh
Published: April 2015

In this paper, we study projective invariants of spherically symmetric Finsler metrics in Rn. We find the necessary and sufficient conditions for the metrics to be Weyl, Douglas and generalized Douglas–Weyl (GDW) types. In particular, we find the necessary and sufficient condition for the metrics to be of scalar flag curvature. Also we show that two classes of GDW and Douglas spherically symmetric Finsler metrics coincide.
Holography in a background-independent effective theory
Authors: Torrieri Giorgio
Published: April 2015

We discuss the meaning of the strong equivalence principle when applied to a quantum field theory. We show that, because of unitary inequivalence of accelerated frames, the only way for the strong equivalence principle to apply exactly is to add a boundary term representing the decoherence of degrees of freedom leaving the observable region of the bulk. We formulate the constraints necessary for the partition function to be covariant with respect to non-inertial transformations and argue that, when the non-unitary part is expressed as a functional integral over the horizon, holography arises naturally as a consequence of the equivalence principle.
From Tusko to Titin: the role for comparative physiology in an era of molecular discovery
Authors: Lindstedt S. L. , Nishikawa K. C.
Published: April 2015

As we approach the centenary of the term “comparative physiology,” we reexamine its role in modern biology. Finding inspiration in Krogh's classic 1929 paper, we first look back to some timeless contributions to the field. The obvious and fascinating variation among animals is much more evident than is their shared physiological unity, which transcends both body size and specific adaptations. The “unity in diversity” reveals general patterns and principles of physiology that are invisible when examining only one species. Next, we examine selected contemporary contributions to comparative physiology, which provides the context in which reductionist experiments are best interpreted. We discuss the sometimes surprising insights provided by two comparative “athletes” (pronghorn and rattlesnakes), which demonstrate 1) animals are not isolated molecular mechanisms but highly integrated physiological machines, a single “rate-limiting” step may be exceptional; and 2) extremes in nature are rarely the result of novel mechanisms, but rather employ existing solutions in novel ways. Furthermore, rattlesnake tailshaker muscle effectively abolished the conventional view of incompatibility of simultaneous sustained anaerobic glycolysis and oxidative ATP production. We end this review by looking forward, much as Krogh did, to suggest that a comparative approach may best lend insights in unraveling how skeletal muscle stores and recovers mechanical energy when operating cyclically. We discuss and speculate on the role of the largest known protein, titin (the third muscle filament), as a dynamic spring capable of storing and recovering elastic recoil potential energy in skeletal muscle.
Angiotensin AT2receptor agonist prevents salt-sensitive hypertension in obese Zucker rats
Authors: Ali Quaisar , Patel Sanket , Hussain Tahir
Published: April 2015

High-sodium intake is a risk factor for the pathogenesis of hypertension, especially in obesity. The present study is designed to investigate whether angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2R) activation with selective agonist C21 prevents high-sodium diet (HSD)-induced hypertension in obese animals. Male obese rats were treated with AT2R agonist C21 (1 mg·kg−1·day−1, oral) while maintained on either normal-sodium diet (NSD; 0.4%) or HSD (4%) for 2 wk. Radiotelemetric recording showed a time-dependent increase in systolic blood pressure in HSD-fed obese rats, being maximal increase (∼27 mmHg) at day 12 of the HSD regimen. C21 treatment completely prevented the increase in blood pressure of HSD-fed rats. Compared with NSD controls, HSD-fed obese rats had greater natriuresis/diuresis and urinary levels of nitrates, and these parameters were further increased by C21 treatment. Also, C21 treatment improved glomerular filtration rate in HSD-fed rats. HSD-fed rats expressed higher level of cortical ANG II, which was reduced to 50% by C21 treatment. HSD feeding and/or C21 treatment had no effects on cortical renin activity and the expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and chymase, which are ANG II-producing enzymes. However, ANG(1–7) concentration and ACE2 activity in the renal cortex were reduced by HSD feeding, and C21 treatment rescued both the parameters. Also, C21 treatment reduced the cortical expression of AT1R in HSD-fed rats, but had no effect of AT2R expression. We conclude that chronic treatment with the AT2R agonist C21 prevents salt-sensitive hypertension in obese rats, and a reduction in the renal ANG II/AT1R and enhanced ACE2/ANG(1–7) levels may play a potential role in this phenomenon.
Closed-loop, ultraprecise, automated craniotomies
Authors: Pak Nikita , Siegle Joshua H. , Kinney Justin P. , Denman Daniel J. , Blanche Timothy J. , Boyden Edward S.
Published: April 2015

A large array of neuroscientific techniques, including in vivo electrophysiology, two-photon imaging, optogenetics, lesions, and microdialysis, require access to the brain through the skull. Ideally, the necessary craniotomies could be performed in a repeatable and automated fashion, without damaging the underlying brain tissue. Here we report that when drilling through the skull a stereotypical increase in conductance can be observed when the drill bit passes through the skull base. We present an architecture for a robotic device that can perform this algorithm, along with two implementations—one based on homebuilt hardware and one based on commercially available hardware—that can automatically detect such changes and create large numbers of precise craniotomies, even in a single skull. We also show that this technique can be adapted to automatically drill cranial windows several millimeters in diameter. Such robots will not only be useful for helping neuroscientists perform both small and large craniotomies more reliably but can also be used to create precisely aligned arrays of craniotomies with stereotaxic registration to standard brain atlases that would be difficult to drill by hand.
Enhanced Levels of Chemokines and Their Receptors in the Colon of Microscopic Colitis Patients Indicate Mixed Immune Cell Recruitment
Authors: Günaltay Sezin , Kumawat Ashok Kumar , Nyhlin Nils , Bohr Johan , Tysk Curt , Hultgren Olof , Hultgren Hörnquist Elisabeth
Published: April 2015

Microscopic colitis (MC), comprising collagenous colitis (CC) and lymphocytic colitis (LC), is a common cause of chronic diarrhea. Various immune cell infiltrations in the epithelium and lamina propria are seen in MC immunopathology. We compared gene and protein expressions of different immune cell attracting chemokines and their receptors in colon biopsies from MC patients in active disease or histopathological remission (CC/LC‐HR) with controls, using qRT‐PCR and Luminex, respectively. CC and LC patients with active disease demonstrated a mixed chemokine profile with significantly enhanced gene and/or protein expressions of the chemokines CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, CCL5, CCL7, CCL22, CXCL8, CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11, and CX3CL1 and the receptors CCR2, CCR3, CCR4, CXCR1, CXCR2, and CX3CR1. Enhanced chemokine/chemokine receptor gene and protein levels in LC‐HR patients were similar to LC patients, whereas CC‐HR patients demonstrated almost normalized levels. These findings expand the current understanding of the involvement of various immune cells in MC immunopathology and endorse chemokines as potential diagnostic markers as well as therapeutic candidates. Moreover, this study further supports the hypothesis that CC and LC are two different entities due to differences in their immunoregulatory responses.
Antiretroviral Treatment Adherence Rate and Associated Factors among People Living with HIV in Dubti Hospital, Afar Regional State, East Ethiopia
Authors: Belayihun Bekele , Negus Rahma
Published: April 2015

Introduction. Antiretroviral Therapy has transformed HIV infection into a chronic manageable disease; it requires near perfect adherence rates (as high as 95%). In this study, we assessed antiretroviral treatment adherence rate and associated factors among people living with HIV in Dubti Hospital. Methods. A retrospective cross-sectional study design was conducted within February 1–30, 2014. All HIV-infected patients above the age of 18 years who took first line Antiretroviral Therapy were eligible for inclusion of the study. Adherence Scale was used for labeling patients as adherent or nonadherent. All HIV-infected patients record data were collected from the medical records, entered, and analyzed using Epi Info 7 and SPSS Version 20. Multivariable analysis was used to identify the relative effect of explanatory variables on low adherence rate. Results. A total of 370 patients aged 18 years and above, who started ART, were included in this study. The self-reported adherence rate of the patient on ART was 81.1%. Independent predictors of adherence were treatment duration. Conclusion. Adherence rate was associated with time to ART. That is, the longer they were on ART, the lesser they adhered.
Generalized Wavelet Fisher’s Information of1/fαSignals
Authors: Ramírez-Pacheco Julio , Toral-Cruz Homero , Rizo-Domínguez Luis , Cortez-Gonzalez Joaquin
Published: April 2015

This paper defines the generalized wavelet Fisher information of parameterq. This information measure is obtained by generalizing the time-domain definition of Fisher’s information of Furuichi to the wavelet domain and allows to quantify smoothness and correlation, among other signals characteristics. Closed-form expressions of generalized wavelet Fisher information for1/fαsignals are determined and a detailed discussion of their properties, characteristics and their relationship with waveletq-Fisher information are given. Information planes of1/fsignals Fisher information are obtained and, based on these, potential applications are highlighted. Finally, generalized wavelet Fisher information is applied to the problem of detecting and locating weak structural breaks in stationary1/fsignals, particularly for fractional Gaussian noise series. It is shown that by using a joint Fisher/F-Statistic procedure, significant improvements in time and accuracy are achieved in comparison with the sole application of theF-statistic.
Regulation of Systemxc-by Pharmacological Manipulation of Cellular Thiols
Authors: Albano Rebecca , Raddatz Nicholas J. , Hjelmhaug Julie , Baker David A. , Lobner Doug
Published: April 2015

The cystine/glutamate exchanger (systemxc-) mediates the transport of cystine into the cell in exchange for glutamate. By releasing glutamate, systemxc-can potentially cause excitotoxicity. However, through providing cystine to the cell, it regulates the levels of cellular glutathione (GSH), the main endogenous intracellular antioxidant, and may protect cells against oxidative stress. We tested two different compounds that deplete primary cortical cultures containing both neurons and astrocytes of intracellular GSH,L-buthionine-sulfoximine (L-BSO), and diethyl maleate (DEM). Both compounds caused significant concentration and time dependent decreases in intracellular GSH levels. However; DEM caused an increase in radiolabeled cystine uptake through systemxc-, while unexpectedly BSO caused a decrease in uptake. The compounds caused similar low levels of neurotoxicity, while only BSO caused an increase in oxidative stress. The mechanism of GSH depletion by these two compounds is different, DEM directly conjugates to GSH, while BSO inhibitsγ-glutamylcysteine synthetase, a key enzyme in GSH synthesis. As would be expected from these mechanisms of action, DEM caused a decrease in intracellular cysteine, while BSO increased cysteine levels. The results suggest that negative feedback by intracellular cysteine is an important regulator of systemxc-in this culture system.
Parallel Seed-Based Approach to Multiple Protein Structure Similarities Detection
Authors: Chapuis Guillaume , Le Boudic-Jamin Mathilde , Andonov Rumen , Djidjev Hristo , Lavenier Dominique
Published: April 2015

Finding similarities between protein structures is a crucial task in molecular biology. Most of the existing tools require proteins to be aligned in order-preserving way and only find single alignments even when multiple similar regions exist. We propose a new seed-based approach that discovers multiple pairs of similar regions. Its computational complexity is polynomial and it comes with a quality guarantee—the returned alignments have both root mean squared deviations (coordinate-based as well as internal-distances based) lower than a given threshold, if such exist. We do not require the alignments to be order preserving (i.e., we consider nonsequential alignments), which makes our algorithm suitable for detecting similar domains when comparing multidomain proteins as well as to detect structural repetitions within a single protein. Because the search space for nonsequential alignments is much larger than for sequential ones, the computational burden is addressed by extensive use of parallel computing techniques: a coarse-grain level parallelism making use of available CPU cores for computation and a fine-grain level parallelism exploiting bit-level concurrency as well as vector instructions.
Enterococcus faecium NCIMB 10415 Modulates Epithelial Integrity, Heat Shock Protein, and Proinflammatory Cytokine Response in Intestinal Cells
Authors: Klingspor Shanti , Bondzio Angelika , Martens Holger , Aschenbach Jörg R. , Bratz Katharina , Tedin Karsten , Einspanier Ralf , Lodemann Ulrike
Published: April 2015

Probiotics have shown positive effects on gastrointestinal diseases; they have barrier‐modulating effects and change the inflammatory response towards pathogens in studies in vitro. The aim of this investigation has been to examine the response of intestinal epithelial cells to Enterococcus faecium NCIMB 10415 (E. faecium), a probiotic positively affecting diarrhea incidence in piglets, and two pathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains, with specific focus on the probiotic modulation of the response to the pathogenic challenge. Porcine (IPEC‐J2) and human (Caco‐2) intestinal cells were incubated without bacteria (control), with E. faecium, with enteropathogenic (EPEC) or enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) each alone or in combination with E. faecium. The ETEC strain decreased transepithelial resistance (TER) and increased IL‐8 mRNA and protein expression in both cell lines compared with control cells, an effect that could be prevented by pre‐ and coincubation with E. faecium. Similar effects were observed for the increased expression of heat shock protein 70 in Caco‐2 cells. When the cells were challenged by the EPEC strain, no such pattern of changes could be observed. The reduced decrease in TER and the reduction of the proinflammatory and stress response of enterocytes following pathogenic challenge indicate the protective effect of the probiotic.
Geotechnical Distinction of Landslides Induced by Near-Field Earthquakes in Niigata, Japan
Authors: Toyota Hirofumi , Takada Susumu
Published: April 2015

Landslides triggered by near-field earthquakes with epicentres directly beneath towns have attracted intense attention since the 2004 Mid-Niigata (Niigata-ken Chuetsu) Earthquake. Hilly and mountainous areas sustained heavy damage. Social problems developed when many towns became isolated because landslides cut off traffic and public service lifelines. Soil from landslides closed river channels and formed natural dams. The natural dams submerged some towns. Emergency measures were undertaken promptly to prevent debris flows caused by natural dam breaks. Subsequently, the 2007 Mid-Niigata Offshore (Niigata-ken Chuetsu-oki) Earthquake and the 2011 Northern Nagano Earthquake struck the Niigata region. Landslides triggered by those earthquakes differed in terms of their number, scale, and location. Therefore, characteristics of the landslide sites of the respective earthquakes were examined to ascertain their topographical and geological features. Furthermore, differences in groundwater level and damage related to compound disasters were explained for discussion of the stability progress of damaged slopes.
Sterile Inflammation in Drosophila
Authors: Shaukat Zeeshan , Liu Dawei , Gregory Stephen
Published: April 2015

The study of immune responses in Drosophila has already yielded significant results with impacts on our understanding of vertebrate immunity, such as the characterization of the Toll receptor. Several recent papers have focused on the humoral response to damage signals rather than pathogens, particularly damage signals from tumour‐like tissues generated by loss of cell polarity or chromosomal instability. Both the triggers that generate this sterile inflammation and the systemic and local effects of it are only just beginning to be characterized in Drosophila. Here we review the molecular mechanisms that are known that give rise to the recruitment of Drosophila phagocytes, called hemocytes, as well as the signals, such as TNFα, that stimulated hemocytes emit at sites of perceived damage. The signalling consequences of inflammation, such as the activation of JNK, and the potential for modifying this response are also discussed.
Developing Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Era of Evidence-Based Medicine: Current Evidences and Challenges
Authors: Fung Foon Yin , Linn Yeh Ching
Published: April 2015

Evidence-based medicine (EBM), by integrating individual clinical expertise with the best available clinical evidence from systematic research, has in recent years been established as the standard of modern medical practice for greater treatment efficacy and safety. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), on the other hand, evolved as a system of medical practice from ancient China more than 2000 years ago based on empirical knowledge as well as theories and concepts which are yet to be mapped by scientific equivalents. Despite the expanding TCM usage and the recognition of its therapeutic benefits worldwide, the lack of robust evidence from the EBM perspective is hindering acceptance of TCM by the Western medicine community and its integration into mainstream healthcare. For TCM to become an integral component of the healthcare system so that its benefits can be rationally harnessed in the best interests of patients, it is essential for TCM to demonstrate its efficacy and safety by high-level evidence in accordance with EBM, though much debate remains on the validity and feasibility of applying the EBM model on this traditional practice. This review aims to discuss the current status of research in TCM, explore the evidences available on its efficacy and safety, and highlight the issues and challenges faced in applying EBM to TCM.
Optimization of an Accelerometer and Gyroscope-Based Fall Detection Algorithm
Authors: Huynh Quoc T. , Nguyen Uyen D. , Irazabal Lucia B. , Ghassemian Nazanin , Tran Binh Q.
Published: April 2015

Falling is a common and significant cause of injury in elderly adults (>65 yrs old), often leading to disability and death. In the USA, one in three of the elderly suffers from fall injuries annually. This study’s purpose is to develop, optimize, and assess the efficacy of a falls detection algorithm based upon a wireless, wearable sensor system (WSS) comprised of a 3-axis accelerometer and gyroscope. For this study, the WSS is placed at the chest center to collect real-time motion data of various simulated daily activities (i.e., walking, running, stepping, and falling). Tests were conducted on 36 human subjects with a total of 702 different movements collected in a laboratory setting. Half of the dataset was used for development of the fall detection algorithm including investigations of critical sensor thresholds and the remaining dataset was used for assessment of algorithm sensitivity and specificity. Experimental results show that the algorithm detects falls compared to other daily movements with a sensitivity and specificity of 96.3% and 96.2%, respectively. The addition of gyroscope information enhances sensitivity dramatically from results in the literature as angular velocity changes provide further delineation of a fall event from other activities that may also experience high acceleration peaks.
Optimal Molecular Methods in Detecting p190BCR-ABLFusion Variants in Hematologic Malignancies: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Sonu Rebecca J. , Jonas Brian A. , Dwyre Denis M. , Gregg Jeffrey P. , Rashidi Hooman H.
Published: April 2015

Patients with BCR-ABL1 positive hematologic malignancies and Philadelphia-like B-lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) are potential candidates for targeted therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI). Before TKIs, patients with B-ALL had a much worse prognosis and current treatments with targeted TKI therapy have improved outcomes. Thus, the detection of BCR-ABL1 is crucial and a false negative BCR-ABL1 result may adversely affect patient care. We report a case of a 76-year-old male with a new diagnosis of B-ALL who was initially found to be BCR-ABL1 negative by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A concurrent qualitative PCR was performed which detected a positive BCR-ABL1 result that was confirmed by a next generation sequencing (NGS) based assay and identified as the rare fusion variant e1a3 of p190BCR-ABL. Based on this result, the patient was placed on dasatinib as a targeted therapy. In the era of molecular diagnostic medicine and targeted therapy, it is essential to have an understanding of the limitations of molecular assays and to follow a comprehensive diagnostic approach in order to detect common abnormalities and rare variants. Incorporating NGS methods in an algorithmic manner into the standard diagnostic PCR-based approach for BCR-ABL1 will aid in minimizing false negative results.