Lateral Asymmetry Research Articles

Type-B Energetic Processes and Their Associated Scientific Implications

Recently, our work has identified two thermodynamically distinct types (A and B) of energetic processes naturally occurring on Earth: Type-A energy processes such as the classical heat engines, ATP hydrolysis, and many of the known chemical, electrical, and mechanical processes apparently well follow the second law of thermodynamics; and Type-B energy processes, such as the newly discovered thermotrophic function that isothermally utilizes environmental heat energy to do useful work in driving ATP synthesis, which follows the first law of thermodynamics (conservation of mass and energy), but does not necessarily have to be constrained by the second law, owing to their special asymmetric functions. In mitochondria, their special asymmetric functions associated with Type-B processes comprise: 1) The transmembrane asymmetry of inner mitochondrial membrane structure with the protonic outlets of redox-driven proton-pumping protein complexes protruded away from the membrane surface by about 1-3 nm into the bulk liquid p-phase while the protonic inlet of the F0F1-ATP synthase located rightly at the transmembrane electrostatically localized proton (TELP) layer; and 2) The lateral asymmetry of mitochondrial cristae with an ellipsoidal shape that enhances the density of TELP at the cristae tips where the F0F1-ATP synthase enzymes are located in supporting the TELP-associated thermotrophic function. The identification of Type-B energy processes indicates that there is an entirely new world of physical and energy sciences yet to be fully uncovered. Innovative efforts on Type-B processes to enable isothermally utilizing endless environmental heat energy could help to liberate all peoples from their dependence of fossil fuel energy, thus helping to reduce greenhouse gas CO2 emissions and control climate change toward a sustainable future for the humanity on Earth.

Centre of pressure during walking after unilateral transfemoral amputation

Lower-limb amputation imposes a health burden on amputees; thus, gait assessments are required prophylactically and clinically, particularly for individuals with unilateral transfemoral amputation (UTFA). The centre of pressure (COP) during walking is one of the most useful parameters for evaluating gait. Although superimposed COP trajectories reflect the gait characteristics of individuals with neurological disorders, the quantitative characteristics based on the COP trajectories of individuals with UTFA remain unclear. Thus, these COP trajectories were investigated across a range of walking speeds in this study. The COP trajectories were recorded on a split-belt force-instrumented treadmill at eight walking speeds. Asymmetry and variability parameters were compared based on the COP trajectories of 25 individuals with UTFA and 25 able-bodied controls. The COP trajectories of the individuals with UTFA were significantly larger in lateral asymmetry and variability but did not show significant differences in anterior–posterior variability compared with those of the able-bodied controls. Further, the individuals with UTFA demonstrated larger lateral asymmetry at lower speeds. These results suggest that (1) individuals with UTFA adopt orientation-specific balance control strategies during gait and (2) individuals with UTFA could also be exposed to a higher risk of falling at lower walk speeds.

Parameters of Functional Lateral Organization of Students of Medical University with Different Levels of Physical Fitness

INTRODUCTION: One of the parameters of the functional reserves of the human body is the level of physical fitness, which depends not only on the improvement of various methods used in the education of students in physical culture, but also on the individual characteristics of students, including parameters of their functional lateralization.
 AIM: To establish the character of the interrelations between the parameters of functional lateralization and the parameters of physical fitness in medical university students.
 MATERIALS AND METHODS: Functional lateralization was determined by both the conventional test methods and by the method of neuro-energo mapping in 120 practically healthy medical university students of male gender aged 18 to 23 years. Physical fitness was assessed in conventional tests for determination of strength fitness, speed-strength fitness, speed endurance. All the data were processed using non-parametric statistical methods and correlation and cluster analysis.
 RESULTS: Based on the criterion of physical fitness, young men were divided to two groups: a group with a relatively high level of speed and strength endurance and flexibility (cluster 1, n = 71), and a group with a relatively high level of strength fitness (cluster 1, n = 49). Both the integral (coefficient of lateral organization profile CLOP) and partial parameters (manual and sensory asymmetry) of the functional lateralization were higher in the representatives of cluster 2, with this, the analysis of changes of the permanent potential level (method of neuro-energo mapping) in functional tests showed only an emerging tendency in the differences between the clusters. Also, in cluster 1, weak (r 0.3, р 0.05) negative relationships between the parameters of functional lateralization were found in behavioral tests, and between changes in the permanent potential level of the left and right cerebral hemispheres (TdTs lead) in load tests. In the representatives of the second cluster, no correlations were found.
 CONCLUSION: The results of the performed comprehensive analysis evidence, in the authors opinion, the differences in the central-peripheral relationships in the systemic organization of physiological functions that determine non-uniform physical fitness in young men with a relatively high level of speed-strength endurance and flexibility (cluster 1) and those with a relatively high level of strength fitness (cluster 2).

Topographic Positions of the Wharton's Duct Orifice in Children

Sialoendoscopic, orthodontic, and surgical interventions within the floor of the mouth require precise knowledge of the topography of the Wharton's duct orifices which is still lacking for the pediatric population. We aimed to establish a normative database for the topography of these orifices in children. The prospective cross-sectional analytic study was performed during January to December 2021. The distances between the mandible gonions and each orifice and the lingual frenulum were defined as primary outcome variables. The secondary outcome variables were the inter-position of the orifices and their location against the base of the tongue and the mandibular alveolar ridge. The segments of the cohort were classified by sex and age groups (4 to 7, 8 to 14, 15 to 17years old) as the primary predictor variables. The data were evaluated by a 3-way ANOVA for analysis of selected distances with the level of significance at P≤.05. The correlation analysis between sex and locations of the orifices was performed using χ2 criterion (95% confidence interval) and r≥0.60 was counted as a strong correlation. The study involved 3,000 healthy children from 4 to 17years of age. The orifices were symmetrical (89.3%), frenulum-independent (78.0%) openings that were usually located in the middle part of the floor of the mouth. The distance between the orifices varied from 0mm in the frenulum-attached cases to 4.6±1.8mm for 4 to 7years old, 7.6±1.9mm for 8 to 14years old, and 9.1±2.6mm for 15 to 17years old individuals. The orifices were attached to the frenulum (5.7%), were frenulum-related (16.3%), and frenulum-independent (78.0%). The sagittal asymmetry of the orifices was noted in 10.7%, and in 1.6% the lateral asymmetry was detected. No statistically significant sex-related differences were noted. In the pediatric population, the Wharton's duct orifices are usually symmetrical frenulum-independent openings that are located in the middle part of the floor of the mouth. The distance between the orifices normatively varies according to sex and age. The size of the mandible does not influence the positions of the orifices. The position of the duct orifices must be established prior to submandibular sialoendoscopy, orthodontic interventions, frenotomy, and other oral surgeries.

Bilateral Training Improves Agility and Accuracy for Both Preferred and Non-Preferred Legs in Young Soccer Players.

As laterality of the lower limbs is regarded as a relevant influence on soccer performance, we assessed whether a bilateral training program for both the preferred leg (PL) and non-preferred leg (NPL) would improve soccer players' lateral asymmetry, agility, and accuracy. Sixty right-foot-dominant young soccer players were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (EXP) that underwent bilateral training or a control group (CONT) that performed their usual training schedule without bilateral exercise. We assessed the players' lateral asymmetries before and after training on four soccer skill tasks: a zigzag test with and without a ball, a receiving and direct volley-shooting accuracy test, and a passing accuracy test. Results showed post-test versus pre-test performance improvements for the EXP group on the index of technical skills and agility (p < .001). A post-hoc analysis further revealed a pre-test to post-test performance improvement on shooting and passing accuracy with both legs only for the EXP group (p < .001). These results support the role of bilateral practice in improving lateral asymmetries, agility, and accuracy.

Lower Limb´S Lateral And Functional Asymmetries And Mechanical Performance In Professional Soccer Players

PURPOSE: As reported in the medical literature, lateral asymmetries (LA) in sports may lead to overload injuries and reduction in performance. Even a lateral asymmetry of ten percent can lead to structural and functional conditions which may precipitate sub-optimal performance or increase the risk of overload injuries. The aim of this study was to explore the influence of lateral lower extremity asymmetries in both functional and mechanical performance METHODS: We evaluated the lower limb LA of sixty-four Costa Rican professional soccer players (age 20 ± 4.3 years, weight 70.9 ± 7.3 kg, height 174.6 ± 4.9 cm, fat 13.9 ± 5 %). LA in lean mass (LM; kg), time of contraction (Tc) and muscle displacement (Dm) of both right and left lower limbs were evaluated. Anthropometry was measured using dual X-ray absorptiometry. Functional performance was assessed through countermovement jump (CMJ) and squat jump (SJ) using a force platform and mechanical performance was assessed measuring rectus femoris Tc and Dm using a tensiomyography. Pearson correlations between LA and CMJ, SJ, Tc and Dm were performed. Significance was previously set at p < 0.05. Lateral asymmetry was calculated as follows: [(higher score- lower score) / higher score) x100]; considering a 10% difference as significant asymmetry. RESULTS: There were no significant correlations between LA and CMJ (LA-LM, p = 0.44; LA-Tc, p = 0.46; LA-Dm, p = 0.88), SJ (LA-LM, p = 0.81; LA-Tc, p = 0.99; LA-Dm, p = 0.97), R-Tc (LA-LM, p = 0.22; LA-Tc, p = 0.43; LA-Dm, p = 0.67), L-Tc (LA-LM, p = 0.323; LA-Tc, p = 0.897; LA-Dm, p = 0.528), R-Dm (LA-LM, p = 0.76; LA-Tc, p = 0.612) or L-Dm (LA-LM, p = 0.195; LA-Tc, p = 0.56; LA-Dm, p = 0.284). CONCLUSIONS: Lateral asymmetries in lower limbs do not appear to exert a positive or negative influence on functional or mechanical performance in Costa Rican soccer players.

Disc Displacement of the Temporomandibular Joint and Facial Asymmetry in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Subjects with facial skeletal asymmetries have a higher incidence of anterior temporomandibular joint disc displacement. The objective of the study was to consolidate existing evidence on the connection between temporomandibular joint disc displacement and mandibular asymmetry in youngsters and adolescents. A thorough examination was undertaken in the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane. To judge the publications’ methodological quality Newcastle Ottawa Scale was used. From the 1011 identified records, eight were selected for the qualitative synthesis and five for the quantitative synthesis, amounting to 692 subjects. Fifteen cephalometric variables were meta-analyzed. The distance from menton (Me) to midline (lateral mandibular asymmetry) was significantly shorter [−1.75 (95% CI −2.43–−1.07), p ≤ 0.001] in subjects with disc displacement compared to those without disc displacement. The distance from articulare (Ar) to gonion (Go) was significantly longer [3.74 (95% CI 1.04–6.44), p = 0.007] in subjects with disc displacement compared to those without disc displacement. The relationship between distance from articulare (Ar) to gonion (Go) or sella (S) to gonion (Go) and disc displacement was shown to be close to statistical significance level, but not for other cephalometric data. Disc displacement was associated with several cephalometric measurement variations in children and adolescents.

Interactions between the Nicotinic and Endocannabinoid Receptors at the Plasma Membrane

Compartmentalization, together with transbilayer and lateral asymmetries, provide the structural foundation for functional specializations at the cell surface, including the active role of the lipid microenvironment in the modulation of membrane-bound proteins. The chemical synapse, the site where neurotransmitter-coded signals are decoded by neurotransmitter receptors, adds another layer of complexity to the plasma membrane architectural intricacy, mainly due to the need to accommodate a sizeable number of molecules in a minute subcellular compartment with dimensions barely reaching the micrometer. In this review, we discuss how nature has developed suitable adjustments to accommodate different types of membrane-bound receptors and scaffolding proteins via membrane microdomains, and how this “effort-sharing” mechanism has evolved to optimize crosstalk, separation, or coupling, where/when appropriate. We focus on a fast ligand-gated neurotransmitter receptor, the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, and a second-messenger G-protein coupled receptor, the cannabinoid receptor, as a paradigmatic example.

Appropriateness of Cervical Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Evaluation and Management of C1 Jefferson Fractures

Traditionally, C1 fractures have been designated as stable or unstable based on the inherent integrity of the transverse altantal ligament. The purpose of our study was to identify adult trauma patients with C1 fractures on cervical computed tomography and evaluate whether C1-C2 alignment differed in patients with and without an associated transverse atlantal ligament injury on follow-up cervical magnetic resonance imaging. Adult trauma patients who suffered a C1 fracture were identified retrospectively. The cervical computed tomography examinations for these patients were reviewed for the following: C1 fracture classification, anterior atlantodens interval (ADI) widening, asymmetry in the lateral atlantodens interval, C1 lateral mass offset, and atlantoaxial rotation. Acute C1 fractures were grouped into those with an unequivocal transverse atlantal ligament injury (n= 12), and patients with an unequivocally intact transverse atlantal ligament (n= 20). Three patients were classified as indeterminate for transverse atlantal ligament injury. Statistically significant increases in lateral ADI asymmetry and combined C1 lateral mass offset were identified in patients with transverse atlantal ligament tears. Lateral ADI asymmetry (using a cutoff of >3 mm), combined C1 lateral mass offset, and anterior ADI demonstrate robust specificity to "rule in" transverse atlantal ligament injury. Atlantoaxial alignment was overall relatively insensitive as a screening test although sensitivity can be improved using a cutoff of >2 mm for lateral ADI asymmetry. Our findings reinforce the role of cervical magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnostic workup and clinical management of trauma patients with an acute burst fracture of the C1 vertebra.

7-T Neuromelanin and R2* MRI in Parkinson Disease.

HomeRadiologyVol. 305, No. 2 PreviousNext Reviews and CommentaryFree AccessImages in Radiology7-T Neuromelanin and R2* MRI in Parkinson DiseaseDhairya A. Lakhani, Erik H. Middlebrooks Dhairya A. Lakhani, Erik H. Middlebrooks Author AffiliationsFrom the Department of Radiology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, W.Va. (D.A.L.); and Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, 4500 San Pablo Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32224 (E.H.M.).Address correspondence to E.H.M. (email: [email protected]).Dhairya A. LakhaniErik H. Middlebrooks Published Online:Aug 2 2022https://doi.org/10.1148/radiol.220230MoreSectionsPDF ToolsImage ViewerAdd to favoritesCiteTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareShare onFacebookTwitterLinked In A 76-year-old man presented with worsening balance, shuffling gait, and right-hand tremor, beginning 3 years before evaluation. On examination, he had reduced facial expressions, reduced blink rate, and hypophonic voice. His gait was slow and shuffling, with bilateral reduced arm swing. He also had rigidity and bradykinesia in all four extremities, greater on the right. His examination features were typical of the akinetic-rigid subtype of Parkinson disease (PD). He underwent brain MRI to support the diagnosis and to assess for other etiologies, such as an atypical parkinsonian syndrome.In this case, we used a high-spatial-resolution multiecho gradient-echo sequence with magnetization transfer pulse at 7 T to image neuromelanin in the substantia nigra, which normally has a high concentration of neuromelanin-rich cells. Neuromelanin imaging stands to benefit from 7-T MRI due to higher signal-to-noise ratio, tissue contrast, and spatial resolution. Reduced size and signal intensity of the substantia nigra were consistent with PD (Figure). Additionally, the multiecho sequence allowed for the quantification of the R2*, which reveals elevated iron deposition in this case, another histopathologic feature of PD (Figure). The combination of both biomarkers has potential to be a powerful tool for diagnosis and monitoring progression of PD.Images in a 76-year-old man with akinetic-rigid subtype Parkinson disease (PD) with symptoms greater on the right side. (A) Axial neuromelanin-sensitive MRI scan derived from rigid subtype PD shows reduced size and signal intensity of the substantia nigra (SN) (arrows) on the first echo image of a neuromelanin-sensitive three-dimensional multiecho fast low-angle shot, or FLASH, MRI scan with magnetization transfer pulse (7-T Siemens MAGNETOM Terra [Siemens Healthineers]; repetition time, 52 m/sec; echo time, 2.18, 4.15, and 7.09 m/sec; section thickness, 1.5 mm; flip angle, 16°; averages, 1; interpolated voxel size, 0.4 × 0.4 × 1.5 mm; acquisition time, 10 minutes and19 seconds). (B) MRI scan in a 73-year-old woman with the diagnosis of essential tremor is shown for illustration of the normal appearance of the substantia nigra (arrows) as comparison. (C) Plot graph of the substantia-nigra signal intensity (normalized by the adjacent cerebral-peduncle signal intensity) over the three echoes shows decreased neuromelanin in the patient with PD (greater decrease in the left substantia nigra) on the first echo neuromelanin-sensitive image. There is also a more rapid decrease in signal intensity over the second and third echoes, reflecting increased R2* effect from elevated iron deposition.Download as PowerPointOpen in Image Viewer Disclosures of conflicts of interest: D.A.L. No relevant relationships. E.H.M. Clinical trial and research funding paid to institution by Varian Medical Systems and Boston Scientific; unrelated consultant fees from Boston Scientific.Article HistoryReceived: Feb 1 2022Revision requested: Mar 7 2022Revision received: Mar 15 2022Accepted: Mar 18 2022Published online: Aug 02 2022Published in print: Nov 2022 FiguresReferencesRelatedDetailsRecommended Articles Substantia Nigra Volumetry with 3-T MRI in De Novo and Advanced Parkinson DiseaseRadiology2020Volume: 296Issue: 2pp. 401-410Differential Effect of Iron and Myelin on Susceptibility MRI in the Substantia NigraRadiology2021Volume: 301Issue: 3pp. 682-691High-Spatial-Resolution Diffusion MRI in Parkinson Disease: Lateral Asymmetry of the Substantia NigraRadiology2019Volume: 291Issue: 1pp. 149-157Imaging the Substantia Nigra in Parkinson Disease and Other Parkinsonian SyndromesRadiology2021Volume: 300Issue: 2pp. 260-278Is High-Spatial-Resolution Diffusion MRI Applicable for the Diagnosis of Parkinson Disease?Radiology2019Volume: 292Issue: 1pp. 267-268See More RSNA Education Exhibits Parkinsonian Syndromes: The Past, Present, and FutureDigital Posters2019Contemporary MRI Imaging in Parkinson's DiseaseDigital Posters2019The Role of MR-guided Focused Ultrasound as a Symptomatic Treatment for Parkinson's Disease: Behind and BeyondDigital Posters2020 RSNA Case Collection Primary HemochromatosisRSNA Case Collection2021NeuroferritinopathyRSNA Case Collection2021Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)RSNA Case Collection2021 Vol. 305, No. 2 Metrics Altmetric Score PDF download

Bilateral differences in handgrip strength in Czech female tennis players aged 11–12 years and injury prevention

The term laterality refers to the preference or dominance of the lateral asymmetry of the human body. The prevalence of left-handedness is reported to be 10–13%, but in some sports (e.g. boxing, ice hockey, tennis), the proportion of left-handers is higher. The left-handedness is considered an advantage in tennis; however, the one-sided load can cause muscular dysbalances leading to injuries. The research aim was to assess bilateral differences in handgrip strength in top Czech female tennis players U12 as to injury prevention. The participants were tennis players (n = 165) aged 11.0–12.9 years taking part in the regular testing by the Czech Tennis Association using the TENDIAG1 test battery between 2000 and 2018. 87.3% of all players were right-handed (RH) and only 12.7% left-handed (LH). Bilateral differences between the right- and left-hand strength of all players were medium significant in favor of the right hand. The assessment of differences between RH and LH players showed only small differences in favor of LH players. There was a medium significant difference between RH and LH players in favor of the dominant hand (DH) over the non-dominant one (NDH). As to injury prevention, it is surprising that a difference between DH and NDH strength &gt;15% was found in 40.91% of RH players and even in 40.06% of LH players. This predicts an increased risk of injury, so it is desirable to pay attention to both sides of the training load and to include compensatory or strengthening exercises.

Botulinum toxin injections in jaw-opening dystonia. The lateral pterygoid – maxillary artery problem

It has been suggested that the variations in the trajectory of the maxillary artery (MA) near the lateral pterygoid muscle (LPM) play a critical role in Botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) injections in patients with jaw-opening/deviation dystonia (JOD). In the case of a lateral course to the LPM, an extraoral injection entails risks of MA injury, pain, and hematoma. Previous reports suggest geographical differences in variations of the MA-LPM relationship. We aimed to determine these variations in Turkish individuals and highlight the need to establish a consensus on approach to LPM injections. In 284 individuals, contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) images were evaluated by two radiologists on both sides for the variations in the course of the MA in the infratemporal fossa. Images of 44 were excluded due to trauma, arteriovenous malformation, mass, surgery, and imaging artifacts. Of the included, 62.1% were female. In 480 evaluations of 240 individuals, the MA passed lateral to the LPM in 65.6% (n = 315). No sex difference was noted. In 51 individuals (21.3%), the MA course differed on the right and left sides (medial–lateral asymmetry). These results confirm that the lateral course of the MA is more frequent. In patients with JOD, the trajectory of the MA should be determined with imaging prior to extraoral BoNT injections. In the case of a lateral course, an intraoral approach seems to be safer to avoid a potential MA injury.

Enhancing the spin–orbit torque efficiency in Pt/CoFeB/Pt based perpendicularly magnetized system

In the recent past, current-induced magnetization reversal (CIMR) has been extensively studied on the heterostructures prepared with heavy metal (HM) and ferromagnet (FM) having spin–orbit torque (SOT). The critical current density (Jc) for magnetization switching depends on the SOT efficiency. In this study, we have chosen Ta/Pt/CoFeB/Pt/Ta/CoFeB/Pt heterostructure having perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA) with broken lateral symmetry and an in-plane magnetized (IMA) ferromagnetic layer on top of the Ta layer. In this heterostructure, we have utilized the SOT originated by the spin-Hall effect that arises from two materials having opposite spin Hall angles i.e. the bottom Pt and the top Ta layer. We have also introduced lateral space inversion asymmetry (SIA) that combines both damping-like and field-like field. The enhanced spin Hall angle, the stray field by IMA ferromagnetic layer, and the lateral SIA effect jointly enhances the SOT efficiency of the system to reduce the Jc for CIMR. We have found that the SOT efficiency and the effective spin Hall angle of our newly designed heterostructure to be 106 Oe/1011A/m2 and 0.23, respectively. Thus we have achieved CIMR with a lower critical current density of 8.65×1010 A/m2 and 3.35×1010 A/m2 at 0 Oe and 600 Oe field applied in-plane (IP), respectively. Due to the lower Jc for CIMR our newly designed heterostructure has potential in low-power magnetic data storage applications.

Lateral Ventricular Volume Asymmetry and Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter Predict Intracranial Pressure in Traumatic Brain Injury Patients.

Background Various noninvasive methods of intracranial pressure (ICP) measurement have been proposed. Each has unique advantages and limitations. This study was aimed at investigating the relationships between lateral ventricular asymmetry on admission computed tomography, optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD), and ICP in traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients. Methods A prospective observational study was conducted in the patients admitted to our department between October 2018 and October 2020. 20 patients with moderate-severe TBI with a Glasgow Coma Scale of 3–12 were enrolled. Lateral ventricle volume (LVV) value measurements were conducted using ITK-SNAP software. The lateral ventricular volume ratio (LVR) was quantified by dividing the larger LVV by the smaller. Results ONSD and LVR had a good correlation with ICP. Admission LVR of >1.735 was shown to have a sensitivity of 90.9% and a specificity of 88.9% for prediction of ICP increase (AUC = 0.879; standard error = 0.091; 95% CI = 0.701 to 1.0; significance level p < 0.004). Admission ONSD of >5.55 mm was shown to have a sensitivity of 81.8% and a specificity of 88.9% for prediction of ICP increase (AUC = 0.919; standard error = 0.062; 95% CI = 0.798 to 1.0; significance level p < 0.002). Combining the ONSD and LVR, the sensitivity could be improved to 90.9% in parallel test, and the specificity could be improved to 100% in serial test. Conclusion ONSD and LVR measurements can diagnose elevated ICP in traumatic brain injury patients. ONSD combining with LVR may further improve the diagnostic evaluation.

Endoscopic Monro Foraminoplasty, types, techniques and complications avoidance

AimThis study aimed to unveil the proper selection of suitable pathologies eligible for foraminoplasty, types per surgical target, and avoidance of complications. MethodsOut of 3425 cranial endoscopic procedures performed through over a quarter of a century, in two Egyptian University Medical Centre, 250 cases subjected to “Endoscopic Monro Foraminoplasty (EMF)” were reviewed. Preoperative MRI T2 including coronal sequence were obtained. Solid lesions up to 2 cm above the foramen of Monro were considered for excision foraminoplasty. Dilatation and restoration foraminoplasty were performed using Fogarty balloon catheter. Combined EMF and pellucidotomy eliminated the need for bilateral foraminoplasty. Patients' age ranged from 3 months to 55 years, with a follow-up period of 2–12 years. ResultsTriventricular hydrocephalus with lateral ventricular asymmetry was in 45.2% of the cases, while bilateral foraminal occlusion with equal sized lateral ventricles were detected in 18.8%. Biventricular hydrocephalus was seen in 27.2% of patients. Biventricular hydrocephalus involved both lateral ventricles in 24% of cases while involvement of single lateral ventricle and the third ventricle contributed to 3.2% of cases. Unilateral hydrocephalus was reported in 8.8%%. Congenital bilateral pinhole stenosis was dilated in four infants. Foraminoplasty can be sorted into three types: Dilatation Foraminoplasty used to treat congenital (1.6%), idiopathic (6.4%) or post hemorrhagic/meningitic (15.6%) stenosis; Restoration Foraminoplasty used to fenestrate a membrane (12%) or cyst wall nearby the foramen (22%); and Excision Foraminoplasty for solid space-occupying lesions (SOL) (4%), partially cystic tumors (38.4%) may require combined aspiration and squeeze foraminoplasty especially in retro-foraminal colloid cysts with coapted foramen edges. The only reported -to this specific procedure-complication was transient remediable memory disturbance. ConclusionsEndoscopic Monro Foraminoplasty is a definitive neuroendoscopic treatment procedure. It deserves abbreviation assignment (EMF).

Are edger rolls useful to control the plate motion and camber in a reversing rolling mill?

In heavy-plate hot rolling, reversing rolling mills are typically used to reduce the thickness of steel slabs. Some reversing rolling mills are equipped with edger rolls to control the width of the rolled plate. At best, the straight plate centerline coincides with the lateral centerline of the rolling mill and the desired rectangular shape is exactly realized. In reality, lateral asymmetries like temperature gradients and thickness inhomogeneities cause a lateral movement, a camber, and a wedge-shaped cross section of the plate. These effects can reduce the product quality and entail collisions with the mill stand or other equipment along the roller table. To prevent this, active control of the lateral position and contour shape is desirable. In this work, a roughing mill where the roll gap adjustment is self-retaining, meaning that it can only be adjusted between rolling passes, is considered. As a control input during the rolling passes, the lateral position of the edger rolls is exploited. A mathematical model for both the lateral motion and the resulting shape of the plate is derived. The model is validated by measurement data recorded in an industrial plant. Based on the validated model, the question if edger rolls are useful to control the plate motion and shape is discussed. A two-degrees-of-freedom control concept composed of an optimization-based feedforward controller and a proportional feedback controller with Smith predictor is derived for the lateral motion and shape. The performance of the proposed control concept is demonstrated in simulation studies based on the validated model.

Individualized Analysis of Lateral Asymmetry Using Hip-Knee Angular Measures in Soccer Players: A New Methodological Perspective of Assessment for Lower Limb Asymmetry.

This study aimed to: (1) determine the magnitude and direction of lateral asymmetry in well-trained soccer players using hip and knee ROM tests; (2) inquire if asymmetry relies on the ROM test performed and/or gender; and (3) establish asymmetry thresholds for each ROM test to individualize lower-limbs asymmetry. One hundred amateur soccer players were assessed using hip–knee ROM tests: Straight Leg Raise, modified Thomas Test, hip internal rotation and external rotation, hip abduction (ABD) and adduction (ADD), Nachlas Test and Rigde Test. There are significant differences between tests when determining the magnitude of lateral asymmetry (F = 3.451; p = 0.001; ηp2 = 0.031) without significant differences between gender (F = 0.204; p = 0.651; ηp2 = 0.001). Asymmetry threshold results differ significantly between using a fixed or a specific threshold (F = 65.966; p = 0.001; ηp2 = 0.985). All tests indicate that the direction of asymmetry is towards the dominant limb. In conclusion, the ROM test used determines the magnitude and direction of the lateral asymmetry of the amateur soccer players. The ABD and ADD are the ROM tests that showed higher percentages of asymmetry, without differences between female and male soccer players. Using a specific asymmetry threshold formula can classify more players as asymmetrical than with a fixed threshold.

Current-induced out-of-plane torques in a single permalloy layer with lateral structural asymmetry

We investigated current-induced torques in a single permalloy layer connected to nonmagnetic electrodes with lateral inversion asymmetry by spin-torque ferromagnetic resonance. Considering the symmetry of the spin-torque ferromagnetic resonance spectrum with respect to the magnetic field direction, we successfully separated various types of torque. In addition to in-plane damping-like and field-like torques, we detected two additional components of out-of-plane (OOP) torques, the symmetries of which with respect to the magnetic field direction correspond to an OOP field-like torque and an OOP damping-like torque. We obtained the OOP torques in particular by breaking a lateral inversion symmetry of the nonmagnetic electrodes, and the sign of the torques is reversed by inverting the electrode structure. The microwave frequency dependence of the OOP torques indicates that the OOP torques are not attributable to a spin current but to the Oersted field generated by a nonuniform charge current, ${B}_{\mathrm{Oersted}}$, and an inductive field, ${B}_{\mathrm{induc}.}$ (which originates from ${B}_{\mathrm{Oersted}}$). We propose an external field-free and fast magnetization switching of a ferromagnetic layer with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy by using ${B}_{\mathrm{induc}.}$, which can be achieved only by fabricating the electrodes asymmetrically.

Track-weighted imaging analysis of white matter microstructures in healthy children: Sex and hemispheric differences.

Structural substrates of sex differences in human function and behavior have been elucidated in previous studies. Diffusion weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW-MRI) is a widely used non-invasive imaging technique in studying human brain white matter structural organization. While many DW-MRI studies reporting sex differences in WM structure are based on diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) measures, tract specific microstructural differences require further investigation. In this study, we aim to investigate sex differences and sex-specific hemispheric differences in white matter microstructural development in healthy 8-year-old children based on novel track weighted imaging (TWI) analysis. Average pathlength map (APM) is a TWI contrast in which the average length of fibers passing through a voxel is utilized. In this study, we employed tract specific APM measures to evaluate sex differences in WM microstructural development. A total of 37 WM tracts were analyzed including 7 commissural tracts, 9 bilateral association tracts and 6 bilateral projection tracts. APM maps were generated for each tract. Tract-wise group tests were done using the mean values of APM maps. Sex differences were tested using general linear model based group comparisons. Age and total brain volume were included as covariates in the group analysis. Sex specific hemispheric differences were performed for the 15 bilateral tracts. One sample t-tests were done independently for left>right and right>left cases and the APM measures were controlled for age and total cerebral hemispheric volume. P-values<0.05 were considered significant after correcting for multiple comparisons accounting for the total number of tracts. Significant sex differences were revealed in APM measures between boys and girls in 11 WM tracts including rostral body of corpus callosum (CC), left inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus (IFOF), right cingulum, bilateral first and second segments of superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF), right middle longitudinal fasciculus (MLF), bilateral fronto-pontine (FPT) and right parieto-occipital pontine tracts (POPT). The sex differences showed higher APM values for these 11 tracts in boys as compared to that of girls. In hemispheric differences analysis for both boys and girls, 2 tracts, arcuate fasciculus and optic radiation showed higher APM in left tracts as compared right; 5 tracts, IFOF, MLF, third segment of SLF, FPT and superior thalamic radiation showed higher APM in right tracts as compared to left. This indicates that boys and girls possess similar lateral asymmetries in these 7 tracts. Additionally, anterior thalamic radiation (ATR) showed higher APM in left tract and 4 tracts, first segment of SLF, POPT, inferior longitudinal fasciculus and cortico-spinal tract showed higher APM in right for boys. In girls, second segment of SLF and uncinate fasciculus showed higher APM in right hemisphere. These results indicate different lateral asymmetries between boys and girls for 7 tracts. Overall, boys showed higher average fiber length in most of the tracts, even after controlling for total brain volume.

Enhancement of damping-like field and field-free switching in Co/Pt bilayer films through quantitative engineering of anisotropy gradient

Spin–orbit torque (SOT) is an emerging candidate for electrically controlled magnetization switching in low-power and nonvolatile spintronic devices. However, SOT switching of perpendicular magnetization requires an auxiliary field or additional lateral symmetry breaking, which is difficult to achieve in practical applications. In particular, the mechanism of field-free switching through vertical symmetry breaking still lacks a quantitative description. In this work, a vertically asymmetric Co/Pt bilayer has been constructed through quantitative engineering of anisotropy gradient, while keeping the total magnetic thickness of the bilayer constant. Interestingly, the enhanced asymmetry with greater anisotropy gradient would induce higher SOT efficiencies and larger field-free switching ratios. Field-free switching can be attributed to the slight lateral asymmetry caused by the perpendicular anisotropy gradient. The SOT effective-field enhancement and field-free switching through quantitative engineering of the anisotropy gradient not only offer a deeper understanding of current-induced magnetization switching in perpendicularly asymmetric systems but also provide a potential avenue for practical applications of SOT devices at the wafer level.