bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biological and mechanical characterization of chitosan‐alginate scaffolds for growth factor delivery and chondrogenesis
Authors: Reed Stephanie , Wu Benjamin M.
Published: October 2015

Chitosan‐alginate (Ch‐Al) natural polysaccharide blends have been used for wound healing, tissue engineering, and drug delivery due to their ability to form pH‐dependent ionic chain‐chain interactions. Yet, the biomechanical properties and growth factor (GF) release kinetics of Ch‐Al, which are important in controlling the microenvironment during tissue regeneration, have not been fully explored. This study examines the compressive elastic modulus of many Ch‐Al scaffold formulations and crosslinking conditions, and also the strain recovery after compressive deformation of Ch‐Al scaffolds, both of which make Ch‐Al an attractive composite for reproducing articular cartilage's resistance to and resiliency under compression. Cell viability, proliferation, and in vitro cartilaginous matrix production (collagen type II, glycosaminoglycans, aggrecan) without supplemental GFs are also investigated, demonstrating the polymer blend's inherent chondrogenic properties. Additionally, this study explores the ability of Ch‐Al chain functional groups to control and extend GF delivery and minimize GF burst release, using model proteins BSA and histone at high loading dose and chondrogenic protein TGF‐β1 at low loading dose in complete media. Expedited cartilaginous matrix synthesis on Ch‐Al with low dose TGF‐β1 release is evaluated, with Ch‐Al supporting homogeneous matrix deposition and lacunae formation as early as 3 weeks due to Ch‐Al's maintenance of GF bioactivity and sustained GF delivery. These results illustrate the potential to focus the formulational range of Ch‐Al to provide enhanced mechanical performance and controlled, bioactive GF release to cooperatively promote cartilage regeneration. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 272–282, 2017.
Effect of Docosahexaenoic Acid on Cell Cycle Pathways in Breast Cell Lines With Different Transformation Degree
Authors: Rescigno Tania , Capasso Anna , Tecce Mario Felice
Published: October 2015

n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), abundant in fish, have been shown to affect development and progression of some types of cancer, including breast cancer. The aim of our study was to further analyze and clarify the effects of these nutrients on the molecular mechanisms underlying breast cancer. Following treatments with DHA we examined cell viability, death, cell cycle, and some molecular effects in breast cell lines with different transformation, phenotypic, and biochemical characteristics (MCF‐10A, MCF‐7, SK‐BR‐3, ZR‐75‐1). These investigations showed that DHA is able to affect cell viability, proliferation, and cell cycle progression in a different way in each assayed breast cell line. The activation of ERK1/2 and STAT3 pathways and the expression and/or activation of molecules involved in cell cycle regulation such as p21Waf1/Cip1 and p53, are very differently regulated by DHA treatments in each cell model. DHA selectively: (i) arrests non tumoral MCF‐10A breast cells in G0/G1 cycle phase, activating p21Waf1/Cip1, and p53, (ii) induces to death highly transformed breast cells SK‐BR‐3, reducing ERK1/2 and STAT3 phosphorylation and (iii) only slightly affects each analyzed process in MCF‐7 breast cell line with transformation degree lower than SK‐BR‐3 cells. These findings suggest a more relevant inhibitory role of DHA within early development and late progression of breast cancer cell transformation and a variable effect in the other phases, depending on individual molecular properties and degree of malignancy of each clinical case. J. Cell. Physiol. 231: 1226–1236, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The long‐term risk of upper‐extremity lymphedema is two‐fold higher in breast cancer patients than in melanoma patients
Authors: Voss Rachel K. , Cromwell Kate D. , Chiang Yi‐Ju , Armer Jane M. , Ross Merrick I. , Lee Jeffrey E. , Gershenwald Jeffrey E. , Stewart Bob R. , Shaitelman Simona F. , Cormier Janice N.
Published: October 2015

Background and Objectives

We assessed the cumulative incidence, symptoms, and risk factors for upper‐extremity lymphedema in breast cancer and melanoma patients undergoing sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary lymph node dissection.

Methods

Patients were recruited preoperatively (time 0) and assessed at 6, 12, and 18 months postoperatively. Limb volume change (LVC) was measured by perometry. Lymphedema was categorized as none, mild (LVC 5–9.9%), or moderate/severe (LVC≥10%). Symptoms were assessed with a validated lymphedema instrument. Longitudinal logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify risk factors associated with moderate/severe lymphedema.

Results

Among 205 breast cancer and 144 melanoma patients, the cumulative incidence of moderate/severe lymphedema at 18 months was 36.5% and 35.0%, respectively. However, in adjusted analyses, factors associated with moderate/severe lymphedema were breast cancer (OR 2.0, P = 0.03), body mass index ≥30 kg/m2 (OR 1.6, P = 0.04), greater number of lymph nodes removed (OR 1.05, P < 0.01), and longer interval since surgery (OR 2.33 at 18 months, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Lymphedema incidence increased over time in both cohorts. However, the adjusted risk of moderate/severe lymphedema was two‐fold higher in breast cancer patients. These results may be attributed to surgical treatment of the primary tumor in the breast and more frequent use of radiation. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015;112:834–840. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Intention to treat outcome of T1 hepatocellular carcinoma with the “wait and not ablate” approach until meeting T2 criteria for liver transplant listing
Authors: Mehta Neil , Sarkar Monika , Dodge Jennifer L. , Fidelman Nicholas , Roberts John P. , Yao Francis Y.
Published: October 2015

Patients with T1 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC; 1 lesion < 2 cm) are currently not eligible for priority listing for liver transplantation (LT). A common practice is to wait without locoregional therapy (LRT) until tumor growth occurs from T1 to T2 (1 lesion 2‐5 cm or 2‐3 lesions ≤ 3 cm) to be eligible for listing with Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease exception. We aimed to evaluate the intention to treat outcome of the “wait and not ablate” approach for nonresection candidates with T1 HCC until tumor growth to T2. The study included 114 patients with T1 HCC 1.0‐1.9 cm followed by serial imaging every 3 months. Two investigators performed independent imaging reviews to confirm the diagnosis. Median increase in total tumor diameter was 0.14 cm/month. Probabilities of progression from T1 to directly beyond T2 without LT listing were 4.4% at 6 months and 9.0% at both 12 and 24 months. The 1‐ and 3‐year survival was 94.5% and 75.5%. In multivariate analysis, predictors of rapid tumor progression, defined as a >1 cm increase in total tumor diameter over 3 months, included alcoholic liver disease (odds ratio [OR], 6.52; P = 0.02) and Hispanic race (OR, 3.86; P = 0.047), whereas hepatitis B appeared to be protective (OR, 0.09; P = 0.04). By competing risks regression, predictors of exclusion from LT (with or without listing for LT under T2) were alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) ≥ 500 ng/mL (HR, 12.69; 95% confidence interval, 2.8‐57.0; P = 0.001) and rapid tumor progression (HR, 5.68; P < 0.001). In conclusion, the “wait and not ablate” approach until tumor growth from T1 to T2 before LT listing is associated with a <10% risk of tumor progression to directly beyond T2 criteria. However, patients with AFP ≥ 500 ng/mL and rapid tumor progression are at high risk for wait‐list dropout and should receive early LRT. Liver Transpl 22:178‐187, 2016. © 2015 AASLD.
Fractionation of Poly(butyl methacrylate) by Molecular Topology Using Multidetector Thermal Field‐Flow Fractionation
Authors: Greyling Guilaume , Pasch Harald
Published: October 2015

Thermal field‐flow fractionation (ThFFF) is an interesting alternative to column‐based fractionation being able to address different molecular parameters including size and composition. Until today it has not been shown to be able to fractionate polymers of similar molar masses and chemical compositions by molecular topology. The present study demonstrates that poly(butyl methacrylates) with identical molar masses can be fractionated by ThFFF according to the topology of the butyl group. The influence of the solvent polarity on the thermal diffusion behavior of these polymers is presented and it is shown to have a significant influence on the fractionation of poly(n‐butyl methacrylate) and poly(t‐butyl methacrylate). Fractionation improves with increasing solvent polarity and solvent polarity may have a greater influence on fractionation than solvent viscosity. It is found that the thermal diffusion coefficient, DT, as well as the hydrodynamic diameter, Dh, exhibit increasing trends with increasing solvent polarity. The solvent quality has a significant influence on the fractionation. It is found that cyclohexane, being a theta solvent for poly(t‐butyl methacrylate) but not for poly(n‐butyl methacrylate), significantly improves the fractionation of the samples by decreasing the diffusion rate of the former but not the latter.

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Many Adverse Consequences From the NLRB's Joint Employer Decision
Authors: DeMaria Alfred T.
Published: October 2015

As we reported in last month's issue, the National Labor Relations Board has ruled that employers who use staffing agencies will often be deemed “joint employers” along with the staffing agency of the workers the staffing agency supplies. It is one of the NLRB's most significant decisions and has a number of consequences for employers, all of them adverse and many that may not be anticipated.
Kinetic and thermodynamic characterization of C–N bond rotation by N‐methylacetohydroxamic acid in aqueous media
Authors: Sippl Stefanie P. , White Paul B. , Fry Charles G. , Volk Sarah E. , Ye Lingxiao , Schenck Heather L.
Published: October 2015

Hydroxamic acids (HAs) perform tasks in medicine and industry that require bidentate metal binding. The two favored conformations of HAs are related by rotation around the C(=O)–N bond. The conformations are unequal in stability. Recently, we reported that the most stable conformation of a small secondary HA in water places the oxygen atoms anti to one another. The barrier to C–N bond rotation may therefore modulate metal binding by secondary HAs in aqueous media. We have now determined the activation barrier to C–N rotation from major to minor conformation of a small secondary HA in D2O to be 67.3 kJ/mol. The HA rotational barrier scales with solvent polarity, as is observed in amides, although the HA barrier is less than that of a comparable tertiary amide in aqueous solution. Successful design of new secondary HAs to perform specific tasks requires solid understanding of rules governing HA structural behavior. Results from this work provide a more complete foundation for HA design efforts. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dielectric waveguides for ultrahigh field magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Bluemink Johanna J. , Raaijmakers Alexander J. E. , Koning Wouter , Andreychenko Anna , Rivera Debra S. , Luijten Peter R. , Klomp Dennis W. J. , van den Berg Cornelis A. T.
Published: October 2015

Purpose

The design of RF coils for MRI transmit becomes increasingly challenging at high frequencies required for MRI at 7T and above. Our goal is to show a proof of principle of a new type of transmit coil for higher field strengths.

Method

We demonstrate an alternative transmit coil design based on dielectric waveguide principles which transfers energy via evanescent wave coupling. The operating principles and conditions are explored by simulations. The waveguide is applied for in vivo imaging at 7T.

Results

The waveguide can be an efficient transmit coil when four conditions are fulfilled: (1) the waveguide should be operated just above the cutoff frequency of the lowest order transverse electric mode, (2) the waveguide should not operate at a frequency where the wavelength fits an integer number of times in the waveguide length and standing wave patterns become very prominent, (3) for homogeneous excitation, the waveguide should be bent around the object, and (4) there should be an air gap between the waveguide and the object.

Conclusions

By choosing the dielectric and the dimensions adequately, the dielectric waveguide couples the magnetic field efficiently into the body. The waveguide can be redesigned for higher frequencies by simple adaptations and may be a promising transmit alternative. Magn Reson Med 76:1314–1324, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ultrasound findings of carpal tunnel syndrome in a hunter syndrome patient
Authors: Alkhachroum Ayham M. , Preston David C.
Published: October 2015

Introduction: Hunter syndrome (mucopolysaccharidosis II) is a rare genetic disorder. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common finding in these patients. Methods: We report the ultrasound findings in a 40‐year‐old Hunter syndrome patient with severe CTS. Results: Marked abnormalities of the median nerve were present proximal to the carpal tunnel with an unusual area of increased echogenicity between enlarged fascicles separating the area of maximal enlargement and the normal median nerve proximally. Conclusions: This case demonstrated unique ultrasound findings in a Hunter syndrome with CTS. Ultrasound also localized the median nerve lesion in the setting of end‐stage median neuropathy and nonlocalizing electrophysiology. Muscle Nerve 53: 147–150, 2016
An adaptive model order reduction with Quasi‐Newton method for nonlinear dynamical problems
Authors: Nigro P. S. B. , Anndif M , Teixeira Y. , Pimenta P. M. , Wriggers P.
Published: October 2015

Model Order Reduction (MOR) methods are extremely useful to reduce processing time, even nowadays, when parallel processing is possible in any personal computer. This work describes a method that combines Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) and Ritz vectors to achieve an efficient Galerkin projection, which changes during nonlinear solving (online analysis). It is supported by a new adaptive strategy, which analyzes the error and the convergence rate for nonlinear dynamical problems. This model order reduction is assisted by a secant formulation which is updated by the Broyden‐Fletcher‐Goldfarb‐Shanno (BFGS) formula to accelerate convergence in the reduced space, and a tangent formulation when correction of the reduced space is needed. Furthermore, this research shows that this adaptive strategy permits correction of the reduced model at low cost and small error. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and characterization of fibrous sepiolite modified silane coupling agent/fluororubber nanocomposite
Authors: Yan Puxuan , Wang Yufeng , Wang Mengyi , Lu Jiangrong , Han Feixue
Published: October 2015

Fibrous sepiolite(Sep)/fluororubber (FKM) composite was prepared by co‐mixing and heat molding. Fibrous aggregation of acid sepiolite(aSep) was prepared by acid exfoliation of mineral sepiolite, and then organic sepiolite(oSep) was prepared by coupling agent modification of aSep. The crystal structure, chemical composition and morphology of different aggregations were mensurated using X‐ray diffraction, infrared spectrometer, and scanning electron microscope. The curing histories and mechanical properties of composites were analyzed for two kinds of fibrous sepiolites. The results indicated that apparent diameters of aSep and oSep were respectively 100–200 nm and 60–100 nm. The apparent crosslinking densities, curing velocities, and tensile strengths of FKM composites were increased by the addition of sepiolite, the curing velocities of oSep/FKM were lower than those of aSep/FKM, and the tensile strengths of oSep/FKM were upper than those of aSep/FKM. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:E208–E213, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Gender differences in caregiver burden and its determinants in family members of terminally ill cancer patients
Authors: Schrank Beate , Ebert‐Vogel Alexandra , Amering Michaela , Masel Eva K. , Neubauer Marie , Watzke Herbert , Zehetmayer Sonja , Schur Sophie
Published: October 2015

Objective

Female family caregivers consistently report higher levels of stress and burden compared to male caregivers. Explanations for the apparently higher psychological vulnerability of female caregivers are largely missing to date. This study assesses the correlates and determinants of caregiver burden in family caregivers of advanced cancer patients with a specific focus on gender differences.

Methods

Three hundred and eight self‐identified main informal caregivers of advanced cancer patients were cross‐sectionally assessed using structured questionnaires for caregiver burden and hypothesised determinants of burden, including sociodemographic characteristics, caring arrangements, support needs, hope and coping style. Gender differences and predictors of burden were assessed using t‐tests, chi‐squared tests and univariate linear regression. Significant univariate predictors were entered in an analysis of covariance separately for men and women.

Results

Burden was significantly higher in women. Hope was the most significant protective factor against burden in both genders, together with perceived fulfilment of support needs. Only in women emotion‐oriented coping and being in employment while caring were significantly predictive of higher burden in the multivariate analysis. The model explained 36% of the variance in burden in men and 29% in women.

Conclusion

Psychological support interventions for family caregivers should take gender‐specific risk factors into account. Interventions focusing on keeping up hope while caring for a terminally ill family member may be a valuable addition to palliative services to improve support for family carers. Women may benefit from interventions that address adaptive coping and strategies to deal with the dual demands of employment and caring. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mott–Schottky analysis of flower‐like ZnO microstructures with constant phase element behavior
Authors: Allagui Anis , Alawadhi Hussain , Alkaaby Mustafa , Gaidi Mounir , Mostafa Khalid , Abdulaziz Yacoub
Published: October 2015

ZnO was prepared using room temperature bipolar electrochemical process in deionized water. Electron microscopy, powder X‐ray diffraction, and micro‐Raman spectroscopy showed crystallization of the material into the wurtzite hexagonal structure of ZnO, self‐organized in micro‐sized flower‐like shapes that are formed out of individual nanorods preferentially grown along the direction. The intrinsic electronic properties were evaluated by potentiodynamic electrochemical impedance spectroscopy using Mott–Schottky analysis of semiconductor/liquid junctions. Because the flat band and carrier density are frequency‐dependent, we used an approximation based on fractional order capacitance fitting, and subsequently three different ways to calculate the frequency‐independent effective capacitance of the system. The capacitance computed using the four parameters of single‐dispersion Randle's model, i.e., pseudocapacitance, dispersion coefficient, and series and parallel resistances, is more recommended for the characterization of the electrochemical system.
Growth and characterization of CdTe absorbers on GaAs by MBE for high concentration PV solar cells
Authors: Arı Ozan , Polat Mustafa , Karakaya Merve , Selamet Yusuf
Published: October 2015

CdTe based II‐VI absorbers are promising candidates for high concentration PV solar cells with an ideal band gap for AM1.5 solar radiation. In this study, we propose single crystal CdTe absorbers grown on GaAs substrates with a molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) which is a clean deposition technology. We show that high quality CdTe absorber layers can be grown with full width half maximum of X‐ray diffraction rocking curves (XRD RC) as low as 227 arc‐seconds with 0.5% thickness uniformity that a 2 µm layer is capable of absorbing 99% of AM1.5 solar radiation. Bandgap of the CdTe absorber is found as 1.483 eV from spetroscopic ellipsometry (SE) measurements. Also, high absorption coefficient is calculated from the results, which is ∼5 x 105cm‐1 in solar radiation spectrum. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Low temperature aluminum doped zinc oxide thin film deposition on ultra‐thin flexible glass and PET substrates by RF magnetron sputtering
Authors: Demircioğlu Zeynep , Özkol Engin , Nasser Hisham , Turan Raşit
Published: October 2015

Aluminum doped zinc oxide (AZO) thin films are prepared on ultra‐thin flexible glass and flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates at room temperature by radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering. Optimization of films has been achieved by varying process parameters to reach the demands of proper conductive layer for thin silicon solar cell applications. Structural analysis of the films was done by X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy. Optical and electrical properties of the films were carried out by means of UV‐Visible spectroscopy, and four point probe measurements. Thickness of the films was obtained by spectroscopic ellipsometry. Transmission measurements clearly show that by decreasing pressure transmission of the AZO film is improved in the UV region. Our results show that by varying the deposition parameters, low resistivity films of 1.1×10–3 Ωcm and 1×10–3 Ωcm were obtained on PET and on ultra‐thin flexible substrates, respectively. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The influence of diabatic heating in the South Pacific Convergence Zone on Rossby wave propagation and the mean flow
Authors: van der Wiel Karin , Matthews Adrian J. , Joshi Manoj M. , Stevens David P.
Published: October 2015

The South Pacific Convergence Zone (SPCZ) is a northwest‐southeast oriented precipitation band over the South Pacific Ocean. Latent heat release from condensation leads to substantial diabatic heating, which has potentially large impacts on local and global climate. The influence of this diabatic heating within the SPCZ is investigated using the Intermediate General Circulation Model (IGCM4).

Precipitation in the SPCZ has been shown to be triggered by transient Rossby waves that originate in the Australian subtropical jet and are refracted towards the equatorial eastern Pacific. A Rossby wave triggers a SPCZ ‘convective event’, with associated diabatic heat release and vortex stretching. Consequently, the Rossby wave is dissipated in the SPCZ region. These features are simulated well in a control integration of IGCM4.

In an experiment, convective heating is prescribed to its ‘climatological’ value in the SPCZ region during the Rossby wave ‘events’ and dynamic forcing from Rossby waves is decoupled from the usual thermodynamic response. In this experiment Rossby waves over the SPCZ region are not dissipated, confirming the vortex stretching mechanism from previous studies. Furthermore, the change in Rossby wave propagation has an impact on momentum transport. Overall, the effect of the Rossby wave‐induced convection in the SPCZ is to decrease the strength of the Pacific subtropical jet and the equatorial eastern Pacific upper‐tropospheric westerlies, by about 2–6 m s−1.

Following these changes to the basic state, two potential feedbacks in the SPCZ and larger Pacific climate system are suggested: increased SPCZ convection due to the enhancement of negative zonal stretching deformation in the SPCZ region and decreased equatorward refraction of Rossby waves into the westerly duct leading to less SPCZ ‘events’. As the convective events in the SPCZ have a significant impact on Pacific mean climate, it is crucial that the SPCZ is represented correctly in climate models.
Comparison of the effect of MTAD and conventional irrigation agents on apical leakage and push‐out bond strength of root canal filling
Authors: Ertas Huseyin , Sagsen Burak
Published: October 2015

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of MTAD (a mixture of tetracycline isomer, an acid, and a detergent) and conventional irrigation agents on the apical leakage and push‐out bond strength of root canal filling and to correlate the apical leakage and push‐out bond strength. Root canals of 120 maxillary central incisors were prepared with a ProTaper file up to F3 and distributed to six groups. Saline, 1% NaOCl, 17% EDTA, 17% EDTA/1% NaOCl, and 2% chlorhexidine (CHX) solutions were used between each file change, and 5 mL of the same irrigating solution was used for the final flush. In the MTAD group, the root canals were irrigated with 1.3% NaOCl between each file and 5 mL of MTAD for the final flush. All the root canals were filled with AH Plus sealer and gutta‐percha cones. Apical leakage was evaluated using a fluid transport system. After the apical leakage test, each tooth was prepared for the push‐out assessment. The statistical analysis revealed that the irrigation solutions had no effect on the apical leakage of the root canal fillings (p = 0.258). The root fillings of the groups irrigated with MTAD showed significantly lower push‐out bond strength values than the other groups (p < 0.001). These commonly used irrigating solutions did not affect the apical leakage of the root canal sealer. MTAD reduced the bond strength of the root canal sealer to the root canal dentin. SCANNING 37:393–398, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
TMS‐HCW: a trust management system in hierarchical clustered wireless sensor networks
Authors: Jadidoleslamy Hossein
Published: October 2015

Hierarchical clustered wireless sensor networks (WSNs) usually consist of many tiny sensor nodes, cluster heads, and the Sink. Problems like insecure operational environments, nodes' misbehavior, and improper selection of peer nodes lead to significantly degrade the overall performance of WSNs and their vulnerability to many attacks. In another direction, WSNs often have vital and crisis duties, and most of the traditional security mechanisms are unsuitable for them. So, security is a vital and complex requirement for WSNs to improve their performance. One significant security solution is trust management system (TMS). TMS enhances the security by verifying the untrustworthy nodes; it also improves the cooperation among nodes and increases the network performance. But, TMS is a highly challenging issue in WSNs because of high overhead and computational complexity, limited resources, nodes' high density, dynamic topology, and nodes' mobility. As a result, this paper proposes a highly scalable TMS for hierarchical clustered WSNs, called TMS‐HCW. In TMS‐HCW, each cluster head calculates the trustworthiness of its cluster's members, verifies the untrustworthy members, and removes them from the WSN's processes. TMS‐HCW is different from other existing TMSs in terms of trustworthiness calculation criteria, trustworthiness calculation procedure, and trustworthiness forecasting capability. TMS‐HCW combines the past misbehavior with the current status in a comprehensive way to obtain the robust trust values; it also uses the statistical quantitative methods with high accuracy in the trustworthiness forecasting process. The performance of TMS‐HCW is compared with the performance of Group‐based trust management scheme for clustered wireless sensor networks (GTMS) and PowerTrust TMSs; simulation results and theoretical statistical analyses indicate that TMS‐HCW is improved in terms of energy consumption, accuracy, traffic overhead, and scalability and fault tolerance. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Infrequent Reservoir-Related Complications of Urologic Prosthetics: A Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Cui Tao , Terlecki Ryan , Mirzazadeh Majid
Published: October 2015

Introduction and Aim

Complications related to inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) and artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) reservoirs are rare, potentially life threatening, and poorly described in the literature. As more devices are implanted, the incidence of reservoir-related complications may increase, and it will be important to recognize the relevant signs and symptoms.

Methods and Main Outcome Measures

We present a case series of reservoir-related complications presenting to our institution for treatment. We also reviewed all accounts of reservoir-related complications within the urologic literature

Results

Three cases of reservoir-related complications are presented. Case 1 involves erosion of an intact AUS reservoir into the cecum of a patient with a history of myelomeningocele and bladder augmentation. Case 2 involves an IPP reservoir causing vascular compression, resulting in open exploration and repositioning of the reservoir. Case 3 involves intraperitoneal migration of a retained IPP reservoir to a subhepatic area, which was then removed laparoscopically. Literature review yielded descriptions of eight cases of intestinal complications, five cases of vascular complications, but zero reports of migration to a subhepatic area. Other notable complications include 20 reported cases of reservoir erosion into the bladder and inguinal herniation of the reservoir.

Conclusion

Complications involving urologic prosthesis reservoirs, although rare, can have serious implications for patients. A high index of suspicion and familiarity with treatment options is required in order to allow timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Patients with prior major abdominal surgeries seem to be more prone to intestinal complications of reservoirs and warrant special concern.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: a Survey of Perspectives on Carrier Testing and Communication Within the Family
Authors: Hayes Brenna , Hassed Susan , Chaloner Jae Lindsay , Aston Christopher E. , Guy Carrie
Published: October 2015

Carrier testing is widely available for multiple genetic conditions, and several professional organizations have created practice guidelines regarding appropriate clinical application and the testing of minors. Previous research has focused on carrier screening, predictive testing, and testing for X‐linked conditions. However, family perspectives on carrier testing for X‐linked lethal diseases have yet to be described. In this study, we explored communication within the family about carrier testing and the perspectives of mothers of sons with an X‐linked lethal disease, Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Twenty‐five mothers of sons with DMD participated in an anonymous online survey. Survey questions included multiple choice, Likert scale, and open ended, short answer questions. Analysis of the multiple choice and Likert scale questions revealed that most mothers preferred a gradual style of communication with their daughters regarding risk status. In addition, most participants reported having consulted with a genetic counselor and found it helpful. Comparisons between groups, analyzed using Fisher's exact tests, found no differences in preferred style due to mother's carrier status or having a daughter. Thematic analysis was conducted on responses to open ended questions. Themes identified included the impact of family implications, age and maturity, and a desire for autonomy regarding the decision to discuss and undergo carrier testing with at‐risk daughters, particularly timing of these discussions. Implications for genetic counseling practice are discussed.
Anteroposterior Radiographs Are More Accurate than Cross-Table Lateral Radiographs for Acetabular Anteversion Assessment: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Sculco Peter K. , McLawhorn Alexander S. , Carroll Kaitlin M. , McArthur Benjamin A. , Mayman David J.
Published: October 2015

Background

Measuring acetabular anteversion is relevant to routine follow-up of total hip arthroplasties (THAs) and for malfunctioning THAs. Imageless navigation facilitates acetabular component orientation relative to the anterior pelvic plane (APP) or to the APP adjusted for sagittal pelvic tilt (PT). The optimal plain radiographic method for the postoperative assessment of anteversion is not agreed upon.

Questions/Purposes

(1) Do anteversion measurements on plain radiographs correlate more with APP anteversion or PT-adjusted anteversion? (2) Do measurements of anteversion performed on supine anteroposterior (AP) radiographs more accurately reflect intraoperative anteversion values for navigated THA compared to anteversion measured on cross-table lateral (CL) radiographs?

Methods

Seventy patients receiving primary navigated THA were included. APP and PT-adjusted anteversion were recorded; the latter defined the intraoperative target for anteversion. Postoperative anteversion was measured on supine AP pelvis radiographs with computer software and CL radiographs with conventional methods. Intraoperative measurements were used as the reference standards for comparisons.

Results

Mean intraoperative APP anteversion was 20.6° ± 5.6°. Mean intraoperative PT-adjusted anteversion was 22.9° ± 4.5°. Mean anteversion was 22.7° ± 4.7° on AP radiographs and 27.2° ± 4.2° on CL radiographs ( p < 0.001). Only correlations between PT-adjusted anteversion and radiographic assessments of anteversion were significant. The mean difference between PT-adjusted anteversion and anteversion on AP radiographs was −0.2° ± 4.3°, while the mean difference between the PT-adjusted anteversion and anteversion measured on CL radiographs was 4.3 ± 5.1° ( p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Plain film assessment of anteversion was more accurate on supine AP radiographs than on CL radiographs, which overestimated acetabular anteversion.
Effect of Extraction Method on the Phenolic and Cyanogenic Glucoside Profile of Flaxseed Extracts and their Antioxidant Capacity
Authors: Waszkowiak Katarzyna , Gliszczyńska‐Świgło Anna , Barthet Veronique , Skręty Joanna
Published: October 2015

The application of flaxseed extracts as food ingredients is a subject of interest to food technologists and nutritionists. Therefore, the influence of the extraction method on the content and composition of beneficial compounds as well as anti‐nutrients is important. In the study, the effects of two solvent extraction methods, aqueous and 60 % ethanolic, on phenolic and cyanogenic glucoside profiles of flaxseed extract were determined and compared. The impact of extracted phenolic compounds on the antioxidant capacity of the extracts was also investigated. Defatted meals from brown and golden flax varieties were used as extraction material. The ethanolic extraction was more selective for phenolics (100.8–131.7 mg g−1) than the aqueous one (11.5–15.7 mg g−1). However, the contribution of particular phenolic compounds to total phenolics was much more dependent on flax variety than extraction method. A strong relationship was observed between both radical scavenging and ferric reducing activity and the content of phenolics (particularly secoisolariciresinol diglucoside). The correlation between extract chelating ability and phenolics was moderate suggesting that other flaxseed compounds are involved in this activity. The extraction method strongly affected cyanogenic glucoside content of flaxseed extracts; the aqueous extraction caused 96 % reduction in cyanogenic glucoside content (0.56–0.62 mmol g−1) when compared to the content in defatted meal (9.1–11.6 mmol g−1). On the contrary, ethanolic extraction resulted in the high cyanogenic glucoside content in the extracts (71–89 mmol g−1). The results reveals that ethanolic extraction gives extracts rich in antioxidant lignans; aqueous extracts have lower antioxidant activity than ethanolic but cyanogenic glucosides are significantly reduced.
Problems with the upper limb in arthrogryposis
Authors: Lester Ruth
Published: October 2015

Introduction

This short paper presents a personal view of the thinking processes around the assessment and development of individualised management plans for dealing with the problems of the upper limb in Arthrogryposis in children.

Background

The paper will offer a definition of arthrogryposis, its incidence and the range of anomalies. The problems associated with joint contractures are defined. The goals of treatment include improvement in function as well as cosmesis.

Priorities and goals of treatment

Managing the mobility of the whole child is very important in deciding what should be offered surgically in the upper limb. Early manipulation and stretching as well as the pros and cons of splints are discussed.

Principles of surgical procedures

The principles of surgery including soft tissue release, changing the position of the arc of movement of a joint, fixing stiff joints, tendon transfers and muscle transfers are presented. The value of thumb web release and the surgical procedures commonly used are described.
Development of evidence-based clinical algorithms for prescription of exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation
Authors: Achttien R.J. , Vromen T. , Staal J.B. , Peek N. , Spee R.F. , Niemeijer V.M. , Kemps H.M. ,   on behalf of the multidisciplinary expert panel
Published: October 2015

Background

Guideline adherence with respect to exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is hampered by a large variety of complex guidelines and position statements, and the fact that these documents are not specifically designed for healthcare professionals prescribing exercise-based CR programs. This study aimed to develop clinical algorithms that can be used in clinical practice for prescription and evaluation of exercise-based CR in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and chronic heart failure (CHF).

Methods

The clinical algorithms were developed using a systematic approach containing four steps. First, all recent Dutch and European cardiac rehabilitation guidelines and position statements were reviewed and prioritised. Second, training goals requiring a differentiated training approach were selected. Third, documents were reviewed on variables to set training intensity, modalities, volume and intensity and evaluation instruments. Finally, the algorithms were constructed.

Results

Three Dutch guidelines and three European position statements were reviewed. Based on these documents, five training goals were selected and subsequently five algorithms for CAD patients and five for CHF patients were developed.

Conclusions

This study presents evidence-based clinical algorithms for exercise-based CR in patients with CAD and CHF according to their training goals. These algorithms may serve to improve guideline adherence and the effectiveness of exercise-based CR.
Foundation years: a time of reflection
Authors: Ah-kee Elliott Yann , Khan Aamir Asif
Published: October 2015

None
Postnatal nicotine effects on the expression of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the developing piglet hippocampus and brainstem
Authors: Vivekanandarajah Arunnjah , Waters Karen A. , Machaalani Rita
Published: October 2015

Postnatal exposure to cigarette smoke during infancy is associated with increased number of respiratory illnesses, impaired pulmonary function, and the occurrence of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). It is also associated with reduced cognitive functioning and attention deficits in childhood. Nicotine, the major neurotoxic component of cigarette smoke, induces its actions by binding to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR). Using a piglet model of postnatal nicotine exposure, we studied the immunohistochemical expression of nAChR subunits α2, α3, α4, α5, α7, α9, β1 and β2 in the brainstem medulla and the hippocampus, given the role of these structures in cardiorespiratory control and cognition, respectively. We compared piglets exposed postnatally to 2 mg/kg/day nicotine for 14 days (n = 14: 7 males: 7 females) to controls (n = 14: 7 males: 7 females). In the hippocampus, decreased expression was seen for α3 in CA1 (p = 0.017), α9 in CA1 (p < 0.001) and CA2 (p < 0.001), β1 in CA1 (p = 0.001) and CA2 (p = 0.001) and β2 in CA3 (p = 0.036). In the medulla, the nucleus of the spinal trigeminal tract had increased α2 and α4; vestibular nucleus increased α2 and α3, and decreased α4; hypoglossal decreased α3 and β1; dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus decreased α4 and β1. This is the first demonstration that non‐classical nAChR subunits are affected by postnatal nicotine in the developing brain, and the implications are discussed.
Virtuous Persons and Virtuous Actions in Business Ethics and Organizational Research
Authors: Alzola Miguel
Published: October 2015

The language of virtue is gaining wider appreciation in the philosophical, psychological, and management literatures. Ethicists and social scientists aim to integrate normative and empirical approaches into a new “science of virtue.” But, I submit, they are talking past each other; they hold radically different notions of what a virtue is. In this paper, I shall examine two conflicting conceptions of virtue, what I call the reductive and the non-reductive accounts of virtue. I shall critically study them and argue that the non-reductive view is the best philosophical account of virtue and the only one that can account for the way we talk about virtue in business and in everyday life. We can only understand what it means to act virtuously through the examination of the attitudes, beliefs, desires, and inclinations of the virtuous agent. I shall illustrate the differences between the reductive and non-reductive accounts by considering the virtue of gratitude.
Foster Care from a Historical Perspective
Authors: Briggs Freda , Hunt Susan
Published: October 2015

Foster care has been available in Australia for almost 150 years. Carers have long been recognised as “the ultimate volunteers” who care for the most traumatised, emotionally disturbed children in the nation. Given that they provide the foundation stone of the child protection system, one might expect carers to be supported and valued. Numerous studies have shown otherwise. Warning signs over the years have been ignored by child welfare authorities resulting in carers leaving the service faster than they could be recruited and the most needy young children being placed in caravan parks, cheap motels and group homes supervised by occasional, inadequately trained, generalist carers employed on seven hour contracts by agencies.
Studying Policy Changes in Disaster Management in India: A Tale of Two Cyclones
Authors: Jha Ayan , Basu Rivu , Basu Atreyee
Published: October 2015

Objective

The mainstay of India’s disaster management policy until the early 2000s had been relief and rescue operations. The Odisha Super Cyclone (1999) with 10,000 deaths and US $3 billion economic damage provided a rude awakening. Recognizing the importance of preemptive preparedness, the government initiated systematic steps to implement a national framework interlinking economic, environmental, and overall developmental issues for efficient response to and mitigation of disasters.

Methods

We attempted a critical analysis of this paradigm shift in India’s disaster management policy through the prism of 2 cyclones, 14 years apart in time.

Results

With improved preparedness and response measures, the death toll in 2013 Cyclone Phailin was 0.5% and the economic loss was about one-third of that during 1999. Concomitant improvements in the technological expertise of the early warning system, an integrated approach at all levels of administration including joint planning with major nongovernmental organizations, and improved community participation were identified as game-changers. An unbelievable 1 million people were evacuated to safety.

Conclusions

Our essay aims to highlight key steps in this success and calls for futuristic approaches like insurance programs and gender-sensitive recovery plans. With thorough scrutiny, India’s model may well stand to be replicated in resource-restricted settings. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2016;10:42-46)
Regularity of a thermoelastic problem with variable parameters
Authors: BARRAL P. , NAYA-RIVEIRO M. C. , QUINTELA P.
Published: October 2015

This paper deals with a fully-coupled thermoelastic problem, in a heterogeneous medium, arising from the metallurgical industry. The aim is to prove regularity properties of the solution with respect to space and time. Regularity in space is obtained by means of regularity properties for elliptic operators. In order to prove regularity in time, a mathematical induction technique, together with an existence and uniqueness result for this type of problems, is applied.
Partisan Politics and Congressional Election Prospects: Evidence from the Iowa Electronic Markets
Authors: Berg Joyce E. , Penney Christopher E. , Rietz Thomas A.
Published: October 2015

Using the Iowa Electronic Markets (IEM), this article assesses the political impact of several important events during the fall of 2013: the US government shutdown, the Senate elimination of filibusters for presidential nominations (i.e., the “nuclear option”), and the implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (i.e., ObamaCare). Did these events have meaningful effects on congressional control prospects in the 2014 election? According to IEM price changes, Republican chances fell dramatically when the government shut down, and they did not recover on resolution. Eliminating filibusters had a negative impact on Democratic chances. Various aspects of the ObamaCare rollout and reporting, as well as new announcements that incumbents would not run for reelection, had little effect. In contrast, the budget resolution reinforced the status quo. Overall, political rhetoric does not appear to affect congressional control prospects. Instead, actions matter: deliberate partisan actions of Congress adversely affect the initiating party’s prospects, whereas bipartisan initiatives help the party that initiates the bipartisan effort.
Reviewer Fatigue? Why Scholars Decline to Review their Peers’ Work
Authors: Breuning Marijke , Backstrom Jeremy , Brannon Jeremy , Gross Benjamin Isaak , Widmeier Michael
Published: October 2015

As new academic journals have emerged in political science and existing journals experience increasing submission rates, editors are concerned that scholars experience “reviewer fatigue.” Editors often assume that an overload of requests to review makes scholars less willing to perform the anonymous yet time-consuming tasks associated with reviewing manuscripts. To date, there has not been a systematic investigation of the reasons why scholars decline to review. We empirically investigated the rate at which scholars accept or decline to review, as well as the reasons they gave for declining. We found that reviewer fatigue is only one of several reasons why scholars decline to review. The evidence suggests that scholars are willing to review but that they also lead busy professional and personal lives.
Teaching Policy Analysis Through Animated Films: A Mickey Mouse Assignment?
Authors: Cooley Valerie , Pennock Andrew
Published: October 2015

To conduct a policy analysis, students must master foundational concepts and apply them using critical and evaluative thinking. A film-based assignment allows students to practice the steps of policy analysis in a low-stakes setting that requires a limited investment of time. Ideally, the assignment is used as an initial practice exercise before engaging in applied projects later in the semester. The applied projects are enhanced because students already have used the steps of policy analysis and been given feedback in a sheltered setting. We suggest using animated films for this assignment because they force students to define problems, solutions, and criteria without reference to existing practices or dominant perspectives. Therefore, student time and instructor feedback is devoted to developing what Bardach termed “first-rate thinking.” Concentrating attention on logical thought processes builds a strong foundation for further training in policy analysis.