Electrocardiogram-based biometrics for user identification - Using your heartbeat as a digital key.

External biometrics such as thumbprint and facial recognition have become standard tools for securing our digital devices and protecting our data. These systems, however, are potentially prone to copying and cybercrime access. Researchers have therefore explored internal biometrics, such as the electrical patterns within an electrocardiogram (ECG). The heart's electrical signals carry sufficient distinctiveness to allow the ECG to be used as an internal biometric for user authentication and identification. Using the ECG in this way has many potential advantages and limitations. This article reviews the history of ECG biometrics and explores some of the technical and security considerations. It also explores current and future uses of the ECG as an internal biometric.

Characterization of a factor H mutation that perturbs the alternative pathway of complement in a family with membranoproliferative GN.

Complement C3 activation is a characteristic finding in membranoproliferative GN (MPGN). This activation can be caused by immune complex deposition or an acquired or inherited defect in complement regulation. Deficiency of complement factor H has long been associated with MPGN. More recently, heterozygous genetic variants have been reported in sporadic cases of MPGN, although their functional significance has not been assessed. We describe a family with MPGN and acquired partial lipodystrophy. Although C3 nephritic factor was shown in family members with acquired partial lipodystrophy, it did not segregate with the renal phenotype. Genetic analysis revealed a novel heterozygous mutation in complement factor H (R83S) in addition to known risk polymorphisms carried by individuals with MPGN. Patients with MPGN had normal levels of factor H, and structural analysis of the mutant revealed only subtle alterations. However, functional analysis revealed profoundly reduced C3b binding, cofactor activity, and decay accelerating activity leading to loss of regulation of the alternative pathway. In summary, this family showed a confluence of common and rare functionally significant genetic risk factors causing disease. Data from our analysis of these factors highlight the role of the alternative pathway of complement in MPGN.

Delayed presentation of right ventricular lead perforation following defibrillator implantation: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Perforation of a device lead through the myocardium is a recognized complication of cardiac device implantation. The associated morbidity and mortality are significant, even though it is a relatively rare complication. Therefore, it is vital for acute clinicians to be aware of the diagnosis and subsequent management of myocardial perforation. CASE SUMMARY: We present the case of a 48-year-old woman who presented to the emergency department 1 month following implantable cardioverter-defibrillator implantation with chest and shoulder pain. Initial assessment revealed bilateral pleural effusions and anaemia. Computerized tomography of her chest and abdomen demonstrated a pericardial effusion, but it was transthoracic echocardiography that confirmed the diagnosis of right ventricular perforation. Urgent system revision was undertaken. DISCUSSION: This case highlights the importance of clinical suspicion and the use of diagnostic echocardiography as an important diagnostic tool in symptomatic patient's post-cardiac device implantation.