bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implantable microelectromechanical sensors for diagnostic monitoring and post‐surgical prediction of bone fracture healing
Authors: McGilvray Kirk C. , Unal Emre , Troyer Kevin L. , Santoni Brandon G. , Palmer Ross H. , Easley Jeremiah T. , Demir Hilmi Volkan , Puttlitz Christian M.
Published: July 2015

The relationship between modern clinical diagnostic data, such as from radiographs or computed tomography, and the temporal biomechanical integrity of bone fracture healing has not been well‐established. A diagnostic tool that could quantitatively describe the biomechanical stability of the fracture site in order to predict the course of healing would represent a paradigm shift in the way fracture healing is evaluated. This paper describes the development and evaluation of a wireless, biocompatible, implantable, microelectromechanical system (bioMEMS) sensor, and its implementation in a large animal (ovine) model, that utilized both normal and delayed healing variants. The in vivo data indicated that the bioMEMS sensor was capable of detecting statistically significant differences (p‐value <0.04) between the two fracture healing groups as early as 21 days post‐fracture. In addition, post‐sacrifice micro‐computed tomography, and histology data demonstrated that the two model variants represented significantly different fracture healing outcomes, providing explicit supporting evidence that the sensor has the ability to predict differential healing cascades. These data verify that the bioMEMS sensor can be used as a diagnostic tool for detecting the in vivo course of fracture healing in the acute post‐treatment period. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 33:1439–1446, 2015.
Effect of supplementation of cows diet with linseed and fish oil and different variants of β‐lactoglobulin on fatty acid composition and antioxidant capacity of milk
Authors: Puppel Kamila , Kuczyńska Beata , Nałęcz‐Tarwacka Teresa , Gołębiewski Marcin , Sakowski Tomasz , Kapusta Aleksandra , Budziński Arkadiusz , Balcerak Marek
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of polymorphic variants of β‐lactoglobulin in cows supplemented with linseed and fish oil on the fatty acid composition and antioxidant capacity of milk. From the herd of 320 Polish Holstein Friesian cows three groups of cows were selected according to the variants of β‐LG (β‐LGAA, β‐LGBB, β‐LGAB). During the first 7 days (the initial period) all the cows were fed the same total mixed ration (TMR) diet. From day 8 to 28,150 g fish oil and 250 g linseed (FOL) was added to the TMR diet of each cow.

RESULTS

The results showed that the diet supplemented with FOL was effective in reducing atherogenic and thrombogenic indices. Introducing supplementation improved the antioxidant capacity: higher concentration of C18:2cis‐9 trans‐11, C20:5 n‐3, C22:6 n‐3, bioactive whey proteins and vitamin soluble in fat has been recorded. The results showed that β‐LGAA was associated with lower levels of atherogenic and thrombogenic indices and higher concentration of C22:5 n‐6, phospholipids and β‐carotene. β‐LGBB favours a higher content of C18:1trans‐11, C18:2cis‐9 trans‐11 and lactoferrin. β‐LGAB was associated with higher concentrations of C20:5 n‐3, Lysozyme, α‐retinol, α‐tocopherol and total antioxidant status.

CONCLUSION

Modification of the diet of cows with fish oil and linseed significantly influenced fatty acid composition and antioxidant properties of milk. The effect of β‐LG phenotype on the fatty acid composition and antioxidant capacity of milk is variable, which could partly be the result of a β‐LG phenotype × diet interaction. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Robotic colonic resection
Authors: Pappou Emmanouil P. , Weiser Martin R.
Published: July 2015

Innovative robotic technologies are aiming to help surgeons overcome the limits of conventional laparoscopic surgery. Recent studies have shown that robotic colorectal surgery is safe and provides favorable results in comparison to conventional laparoscopic techniques. Further studies and long‐term follow‐up are required to assess the outcomes and potential benefits of robotic colon surgery over laparoscopic surgery. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015; 112:315–320. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Varicella‐zoster virus–specific cell‐mediated immunity in Ramsay Hunt syndrome
Authors: Haginomori Shin‐Ichi , Ichihara Takahiro , Mori Atsuko , Kanazawa Atsuko , Kawata Ryo , Tang Huamin , Mori Yasuko
Published: July 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

The etiology of Ramsay Hunt syndrome (Hunt syndrome) is reactivation of latent varicella‐zoster virus (VZV) in the geniculate ganglion of the facial nerve, leading to neuritis. Although the mechanism of the VZV reactivation is unclear, one possibility is that the reactivation involves a low level of VZV‐specific cell‐mediated immunity (CMI). The aim of this study was to clarify the characteristics of the VZV‐specific CMI in Hunt syndrome compared to that in Bell's palsy, and to obtain clues to its role in the development of Hunt syndrome.

Study Design

Prospective study.

Methods

We determined the median spot numbers and examined VZV‐specific CMI in patients with Hunt syndrome and with Bell's palsy using interferon‐γ enzyme‐linked immunospot (ELISPOT) assays. We analyzed the relationship between the value of VZV‐specific CMI and days from disease onset.

Results

The median spot number in Hunt syndrome (87.3 spot‐forming cells [SFCs]/4 × 105 peripheral blood mononuclear cells [PBMCs]) was higher than that in Bell's palsy (62.3 SFCs/4 × 105 PBMCs). Hunt syndrome showed a strong relationship between the ELISPOT count and days from onset (r = 0.65). Within the first 5 days from onset, no ELISPOT counts higher than 80 SFCs/4 × 105 PBMCs were observed. On the other hand, no correlation was observed between the ELISPOT count and days from onset in patients with Bell's palsy (r = −0.19).

Conclusions

These results suggest that VZV‐specific CMI in Hunt syndrome is low at disease onset and increases rapidly thereafter. Consequently, reduced VZV‐specific CMI may play an important role in the reactivation of VZV in the facial nerve, leading to Hunt syndrome.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 126:E35–E39, 2016
Photodynamic therapy for premalignant lesions of the vulva and vagina: A long‐term follow‐up study
Authors: Choi Min Chul , Kim Mi Sun , Lee Gee Hoon , Jung Sang Geun , Park Hyun , Joo Won Duk , Lee Chan , Lee Je Ho , Hwang Yoon Young , Kim Seung Jo
Published: July 2015

Background and Objective

We aimed to evaluate responses to photodynamic therapy (PDT) and its long‐term efficacy in preserving normal anatomy and function in women with premalignant lesions of the lower genital tract.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Fifteen patients received PDT for vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN), vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (VAIN), or vulvar Paget's disease between January 2003 and December 2013. Patients underwent colposcopy and/or vulvoscopy for assessment of lesions. Surface photoillumination with a 630‐nm red laser light was applied to the lesions 48 hours after intravenous injection of 2 mg/kg photosensitizer (PSZ; Photogem®). The light dose to the lesions was 150 J/cm2.

Results

The median age of the 15 patients (VIN II: 3, VIN III: 4, VAIN II: 2, VAIN III: 3, Paget's disease: 3) was 42.3 years. The complete response (CR) rate was 80% (12/15) at the 3‐month follow‐up and 71.4% (10/14) at the 1‐year follow‐up. There were two cases of persistent disease at the 3‐month follow‐up. One patient with persistent disease underwent partial vulvectomy three times for repetitive recurrence, and the other received secondary PDT with topical 5‐aminolevulinic acid (5‐ALA) and subsequently showed no evidence of disease (NED). Another patient achieved 90% remission through a combination of additional alternative treatments after showing partial response (PR). In two cases of CR, recurrence was observed at the 1‐year follow‐up. Regarding adverse events, photosensitivity reactions such as facial edema and urticaria occurred in 13.3% (2/15) and perineal pain occurred in one patient.

Conclusions

PDT may be an effective alternative treatment for premalignant lesions of the female lower genital tract to preserve normal anatomy and sexual function without therapeutic impairment. Lasers Surg. Med. 47:566–570, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Blue 470 nm light suppresses the growth of Salmonella enterica and methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in vitro
Authors: Bumah Violet V. , Masson‐Meyers Daniela S. , Enwemeka Chukuka S.
Published: July 2015

Background and Objective

Emerging evidence suggests that blue light can photo‐inactivate some bacteria of clinical importance. Consequently, we tested the hypothesis that 470 nm light can suppress growth of two recalcitrant bacteria, MRSA and Salmonella.

Materials and Methods

We plated 5 × 106 and 7 × 106 CFU/ml USA300 strain of MRSA and 1 × 106 CFU/ml of Salmonella enterica serovars Typhimurium and Heidelberg. Plates were irradiated with 55, 110, 165 and 220 J/cm2 of blue light, incubated at 37°C for 24 hours and colony counts determined.

Results

Compared with controls, blue light irradiation produced a significant dose‐dependent reduction in the number of colonies formed by each bacterial strain (P < 0.001). Irradiation of 5 × 106 and 7 × 106 CFU/ml MRSA with 55 J/cm2 produced 92% (4.6 × 106 CFU/ml) and 86% (6 × 106 CFU/ml) inactivation respectively, while 110 and 220 J/cm2 suppressed each MRSA density 100%. Irradiation of Salmonella Typhimurium with 55 and 110 J/cm2 suppressed bacterial growth 31% (3.1 × 105 CFU/ml) and 93% (9.3 × 105 CFU/ml) respectively; while Salmonella Heidelberg was inhibited 11% (1.1 × 105 CFU/ml) and 84% (8.4 × 105 CFU/ml) respectively by the two fluences. Complete inactivation of each Salmonella strain was achieved using 165 or 220 J/cm2.

Conclusion

The observed inhibition of Gram‐positive (MRSA) and Gram‐negative (Salmonella) bacteria suggests the versatility of blue light in bacteria eradication, making it a viable intervention strategy for decontamination of food and environments that harbor such bacteria. Lasers Surg. Med. 47:595–601, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Age and equity in liver transplantation: An organ allocation model
Authors: Cucchetti Alessandro , Ross Lainie Friedman , Thistlethwaite J. Richard , Vitale Alessandro , Ravaioli Matteo , Cescon Matteo , Ercolani Giorgio , Burra Patrizia , Cillo Umberto , Pinna Antonio Daniele
Published: July 2015

A moral liver allocation policy must be fair. We considered a 2‐step, 2‐principle allocation system called “age mapping.” Its first principle, equal opportunity, ensures that candidates of all ages have an equal chance of getting an organ. Its second principle, prudential lifespan equity, allocates younger donor grafts to younger candidates and older donors to older candidates in order to increase the likelihood that all recipients achieve a “full lifespan.” Data from 2476 candidates and 1371 consecutive adult liver transplantations (from 1999 to 2012) were used to determine whether age mapping can reduce the gap in years of life lost (YLL) between younger and older recipients. A parametric Weibull prognostic model was developed to estimate total life expectancy after transplantation using survival of the general population matched by sex and age as a reference. Life expectancy from birth was calculated by adding age at transplant and total life expectancy after transplantation. In multivariate analysis, recipient age, hepatitis C virus status, Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score at transplant of >30, and donor age were significantly related to prognosis after surgery (P < 0.05). The mean (and standard deviation) number of years of life from birth, calculated from the current allocation model, for various age groups were: recipients 18‐47 years (n = 340) = 65.2 (3.3); 48‐55 years (n = 387) = 72.7 (2.1); 56‐61 years (n = 372) = 74.7 (1.7) and for recipients >61 years (n = 272) = 77.4 (1.4). The total number of YLL equaled 523 years. Redistributing liver grafts, using an age mapping algorithm, reduces the lifespan gap between younger and older candidates by 33% (from 12.3% to 8.3%) and achieves a 14% overall reduction of YLL (73 years) compared to baseline liver distribution. In conclusion, deliberately incorporating age into an allocation algorithm promotes fairness and increases efficiency. Liver Transpl 21:1241‐1249, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
Corrosion protection of brasses and zinc in simulated urban rain. Part II. The combination of inhibitors benzotriazole and 2‐mercaptobenzimidazole with stearic acid
Authors: Žerjav G. , Milošev I.
Published: July 2015

Combinations of stearic acid (SA) and organic inhibitor benzotriazole (BTAH) or 2‐mercaptobenzimidazole (2‐MBI) were studied as corrosion inhibitors of brasses Cu10Zn and Cu40Zn and of Zn in simulated urban rain. In Part I, where self‐assembled layers of individual inhibitors (BTAH, 2‐MBI and SA) were studied, the SA layer performed best. Here the properties of layers were also tested with weight loss immersion tests, polarization measurements and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements. Results of the weight loss immersion test, polarization measurements and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurement showed that combining organic inhibitor and stearic acid improves the corrosion protection properties of the self‐assembled layers. The contact angles of layers made with combinations of organic inhibitor and SA were higher than for individual SA layers.
Parkinson's Disease, Religion, and Spirituality
Authors: Redfern Clare , Coles Alasdair
Published: July 2015

Background

There has been increasing interest in recent decades in the interactions between disease, religious faith, and spirituality. An issue specific to neurological disorders is to what extent religiousness and spirituality depend upon the integrity of neuronal pathways.

Methods

We review recent research that investigates the effects of Parkinson's disease (PD) on religious faith and spirituality. Few studies have addressed this issue, but these few illustrate contrasting methodological approaches that yield different conclusions.

Findings

On the one hand, case‐control studies have reported an apparent decrease in both religious practice and beliefs in PD with some influence of laterality of disease onset. In contrast, qualitative studies investigating religious and general coping in PD emphasize that religious faith remains important to patients.

Conclusions

Methodological pitfalls are found in both approaches. We conclude that there is little evidence to support claims of reduced spirituality and religious faith in PD. We recommend approaches to future studies that could enable a more nuanced understanding of spiritual and religious changes that might occur in PD.
Sustained Effect of Botulinum Neurotoxin in Myoclonus Owing to Epilepsia Partialis Continua
Authors: Bedarf Janis Rebecca , Marek Milena , Bien Christian G. , Elger Christian E. , Paus Sebastian
Published: July 2015

Background

Epilepsia partialis continua (EPC) is defined as continuous myoclonic jerking of a body part of cortical origin and often resembles a movement disorder. Unfortunately, anti‐epileptic therapy is frequently ineffective. Currently, the effect of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) therapy inEPCis controversial.

Methods

We analyzed case histories, treatment protocols, and video documentation of 5 patients withEPC, who received BoNTtherapy in our movement disorders unit. The Unified Myoclonus Rating Scale was used to document treatment effects.

Results

In all patients, BoNTtreatment significantly reduced severity and frequency of myoclonus and led to pronounced improvement of speech and arm utilization, regardless of etiology or duration ofEPC.

Conclusion

BoNTrepresents a safe, effective treatment inEPC, offering long‐term abatement of myoclonus. The substantial functional profit may hint at mechanisms beyond local impairment of neuromuscular transmission, such as modulation of maladaptive cortical plasticity, as observed in dystonia and poststroke spasticity.
Evaluation of the content and accessibility of microsurgery fellowship program websites
Authors: Silvestre Jason , Vargas Christina R. , Ho Olivia , Lee Bernard T.
Published: July 2015

Microsurgery fellowship applicants utilize Internet‐based resources such as the San Francisco Match (SF Match) to manage their applications. In deciding where to apply, applicants rely on advice from mentors and online resources including microsurgery fellowship websites (MFWs). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the content and accessibility of MFWs. While microsurgery is practiced by many surgical specialties, this study focused on MFWs for programs available in the 2014 Microsurgery Fellowship Match. Program lists from the American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery (ASRM) and the San Francisco Match (SF Match) were analyzed for the accessibility of MFW links. MFWs were evaluated for education and recruitment content, and MFW comprehensiveness was compared on the basis of program characteristics using chi square tests. Of the 25 fellowships available, only 18 had websites (72%). SF Match and ASRM listed similar programs (96% overlap) and provided website links (89%, 76%), but only a minority connected directly to the MFW (38%, 23%). A minority of programs were responsive via email inquiry (36%). MFWs maintained minimal education and recruitment content. MFW comprehensiveness was not associated with program characteristics. MFWs are often not readily accessible and contain limited information for fellowship applicants. Given the relative low‐cost of website development, MFWs may be improved to facilitate fellow recruitment. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 35:560–564, 2015.
The laparoscopic right gastroepiploic lymph node flap transfer for upper and lower limb lymphedema: Technique and outcomes
Authors: Ciudad Pedro , Maruccia Michele , Socas Juan , Lee Ming‐Hsien , Chung Kuo‐Piao , Constantinescu Thomas , Kiranantawat Kidakorn , Nicoli Fabio , Sapountzis Stamatis , Yeo Matthew Sze‐Wei , Chen Hung‐Chi
Published: July 2015

Background

Lymph node flap transfer popularity for treatment of extremity lymphedema is increasing quickly. Multiple flap donor sites were described in search of the optimal one. We describe the technique and outcomes of a laparoscopically harvested right gastroepiploic lymph node flap for treatment of extremity lymphedema.

Methods

From January 2012 to January 2013, 10 consecutive female patients, average age 54.8 years, with International Society of Lymphology stage II–III extremity lymphedema refractory to conservative management were included. Five patients had upper limb breast cancer‐related lymphedema and five patients had lower limb pelvic cancer‐related lymphedema. All patients underwent laparoscopic harvest of the right gastroepiploic lymph node flap, transferred to the wrist and ankle as recipient sites. Flaps were covered with a small skin graft taken from the thigh. Perioperative assessment included physical exam, photography, circumference measurements, CT scans, lymphoscintigraphy, and Lymphedema Quality of Life (LYMQOL) questionnaire. Clinical and CT evaluation of donor‐site morbidity were performed.

Results

The flap survival rate was 100%, with a mean harvest time of 32 minutes and total operating time of 164 minutes. One case required regrafting for skin graft loss. The mean limb reduction rate was 39.5% at a mean follow‐up of 14.7 months. Perioperative lymphoscintigraphy demonstrated transferred lymph node viability and lymphatic transport improvement. LYMQOL showed a 2.6‐fold quality‐of‐life improvement (P < 0.01). No donor‐site morbidity was encountered.

Conclusions

The use of the laparoscopically harvested right gastroepiploic lymph node flap may be a safe technique that improves limb measurements and quality of life in extremity lymphedema patients. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 37:197–205, 2017.
Changes in mental health outcomes with the intensive in‐home child and adolescent psychiatric service: a multi‐informant, latent consensus approach
Authors: Barbot Baptiste , Bick Johanna , Bentley Mary Jane , Balestracci Kathleen M.B. , Woolston Joseph L. , Adnopoz Jean A. , Grigorenko Elena L.
Published: July 2015

This study investigates the Intensive In‐home Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Service (IICAPS), a large‐scale home‐based intervention that collaboratively engages the family, school, and various other service providers (e.g. health practitioners or judicial systems) to prevent the hospitalization, institutionalization or out‐of‐home placement of children and adolescents with serious emotional disturbance. Multi‐informant data (youth, parents and clinician) on the level of youth problem severity and functioning was gathered from 7169 youth and their families served by the IICAPS network, pre‐ and post‐intervention. A newly developed “Multi‐informant Latent Consensus” (MILC) approach was employed to measure mental health “baseline levels” and change, within a Structural Equation Modeling framework. The MILC approach demonstrated promise integrating information from multiple informants involved in the therapeutic process to yield a more accurate and systemic view of a child's level of functioning and problem severity than each report taken individually. Results indicated that the IICAPS family and community based intervention model led to a reduction of problem severity and improved functioning in children and adolescents with severe emotional disturbance. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Rho‐GTPase effector ROCK regulates meiotic maturation of the bovine oocyte via myosin light chain phosphorylation and cofilin phosphorylation
Authors: Lee So‐Rim , Xu Yong‐Nan , Jo Yu‐Jin , Namgoong Suk , Kim Nam‐Hyung
Published: July 2015

Oocyte meiosis involves a unique asymmetric division involving spindle movement from the central cytoplasm to the cortex, followed by polar body extrusion. ROCK is a Rho‐GTPase effector involved in various cellular functions in somatic cells as well as oocyte meiosis. ROCK was previously shown to promote actin organization by phosphorylating several downstream targets, including LIM domain kinase (LIMK), phosphorylated cofilin (p‐cofilin), and myosin light chain (MLC). In this study, we investigated the roles of ROCK and MLC during bovine oocyte meiosis. We found that ROCK was localized around the nucleus at the oocyte's germinal‐vesicle (GV) stage, but spreads to the rest of the cytoplasm in later developmental stages. On the other hand, phosphorylated MLC (p‐MLC) localized at the cortex, and its abundance decreased by the metaphase‐II stage. Disrupting ROCK activity, via RNAi or the chemical inhibitor Y‐27632, blocked both cell cycle progression and polar body extrusion. ROCK inhibition also resulted in decreased cortical actin, p‐cofilin, and p‐MLC levels. Similar to the phenotype associated with inhibition of ROCK activity, inhibition of MLC kinase by the chemical inhibitor ML‐7 caused defects in polar body extrusion. Collectively, our results suggest that the ROCK/MLC/actomyosin as well as ROCK/LIMK/cofilin pathways regulate meiotic spindle migration and cytokinesis during bovine oocyte maturation. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 82: 849–858, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Factors contributing to delay in diagnosis of Guillain‐Barré syndrome and impact on clinical outcome
Authors: Dubey Divyanshu , Kapotic Marissa , Freeman Matthew , Sawhney Anshudha , Rojas Julio C. , Warnack Worthy , Vernino Steven
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Heterogeneity of presenting symptoms makes the initial clinical diagnosis of Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS) challenging.

Methods

Observational retrospective study from 2 teaching hospitals (Parkland Memorial Hospital and University of Texas Southwestern University Hospital) between 2008 and 2013.

Results

Sixty‐nine GBS patients were identified. GBS was suspected on initial emergency department visit in only 49%. During first hospital encounter, 58% were evaluated by a neurologist. Neuropathic pain and presence of intact deep tendon reflexes were associated with delayed GBS diagnosis (P < 0.05). There was significantly better clinical outcome among patients who were evaluated by a neurologist during the initial visit (P < 0.005). Among these patients there was also significant difference in discharge destination; 71.2% of patients evaluated by a neurologist were discharged home (P < 0.01). Patients in whom GBS was not suspected at the time of initial Neurology evaluation were more likely to require intubation and to have residual weakness at the time of discharge (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Atypical clinical signs and symptoms may lead to delayed diagnosis of GBS. Early neurological evaluation is associated with improved clinical diagnosis and discharge disposition. Muscle Nerve 53: 384–387, 2016
High‐order compact difference schemes for the modified anomalous subdiffusion equation
Authors: Ding Hengfei , Li Changpin
Published: July 2015

In this article, two kinds of high‐order compact finite difference schemes for second‐order derivative are developed. Then a second‐order numerical scheme for a Riemann–Liouvile derivative is established based on a fractional centered difference operator. We apply these methods to a fractional anomalous subdiffusion equation to construct two kinds of novel numerical schemes. The solvability, stability, and convergence analysis of these difference schemes are studied by using Fourier method. The convergence orders of these numerical schemes are and , respectively. Finally, numerical experiments are displayed which are in line with the theoretical analysis. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 32: 213–242, 2016
What Do Right‐to‐Work Laws Do? Evidence from a Synthetic Control Method Analysis
Authors: Eren Ozkan , Ozbeklik Serkan
Published: July 2015

Using the case study of Oklahoma and a recently developed econometric technique, we examine the impact of right‐to‐work (RTW) laws on state‐level labor market outcomes. Our results show that the passage of RTW laws in Oklahoma decreased private sector unionization rates. Several other state outcomes including total employment rate and private sector average wages, on the other hand, were not affected by RTW laws. The findings for the private sector generally carry over to the manufacturing sector.
Neural tissue engineering: nanofiber‐hydrogel based composite scaffolds
Authors: Shelke Namdev B. , Lee Paul , Anderson Matthew , Mistry Nikhil , Nagarale Rajaram K. , Ma Xin‐Ming , Yu Xiaojun , Kumbar Sangamesh G.
Published: July 2015

Scaffolds used for soft tissue regeneration are designed to mimic the native extracellular matrix (ECM) structurally and provide adequate mechanical strength and degradation properties. Scaffold architecture, porosity, stiffness and presence of soluble factors have been shown to influence human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) differentiation along neuronal lineage. The present manuscript evaluated the performance of a composite scaffold comprised of electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofiber lattice coated with sodium alginate (SA) for neural tissue engineering. The nanofiber lattice was included in the scaffold to provide tensile strength and retain suture thread on the nerve graft. Sodium alginate was used to control matrix hydrophilicity, material stiffness and controlled release of biological molecules. The effect of SA molecular weight on the composite scaffold tensile properties, hMSCs adhesion, proliferation and neurogenic differentiation was evaluated. Both random and aligned composite scaffolds showed significantly higher tensile properties as compared to PCL fiber matrix alone indicating the reinforcement of SA hydrogel into fiber lattice. Low molecular weight SA coating because of its low viscosity resulted in uniform penetration into the fiber lattice and resulted in significantly higher tensile strength as compared to high molecular weight SA. Both composite scaffolds showed a controlled SA erosion rate and lost >95% of the SA coating over a period of 10 days under in vitro conditions. Composite scaffolds showed progressive hMSCs growth over 14 days and resulted in significantly higher amount of DNA content (almost double on day 7 and 14) as compared to control PCL fiber matrices. Immunostaining experiments showed higher and uniform expression of the neurotropic protein S‐100 on composite scaffolds containing low molecular weight SA. These composite scaffolds may be suitable for peripheral nerve regeneration. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters in children: A 10‐year single center experience
Authors: Rottenstreich Amihai , Revel‐Vilk Shoshana , Bloom Allan I. , Kalish Yosef
Published: July 2015

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is an increasingly recognized problem among children and adolescents. Although inferior vena cava (IVC) filter placement for pulmonary embolism prevention is well reported in adults, data regarding safety and efficacy in the pediatric age group are lacking.

Procedure

At a large university hospital with a level I trauma center, medical records of children and adolescents who underwent IVC filter insertion were reviewed. Appropriateness of referral for retrieval was assessed in each case.

Results

Fifty‐nine children and adolescents (mean age 16 years) successfully underwent IVC filter insertion. All filters placed were retrievable. In 47 patients (79.7%), prophylactic filters were placed in the absence of acute VTE in the setting of trauma. In eight patients (13.5%), filters were placed due to contraindication to anticoagulation therapy with concomitant lower extremity deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Filters were successfully retrieved in only 12 patients (20.3%), although an attempt at removal was appropriate and feasible in over 90% of cases. Mean duration of follow‐up was 2.1 (range 0.4–7.3) years. A significantly higher retrieval rate was found in patients followed at our thrombosis clinic (P < 0.01). Ten patients (17%) experienced at least one filter‐related complication.

Conclusions

Although in most cases, IVC filters were placed for prophylactic indications, the evidence to support their role in this setting is limited. Their low retrieval rate and high filter‐related complication rate question their extensive utilization in children. Dedicated follow‐up is necessary to detect complications and to ensure that an attempt at retrieval is made when feasible. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Waxing and waning of observed extreme annual tropical rainfall
Authors: Sukhatme Jai , Venugopal V.
Published: July 2015

We begin by providing observational evidence that the probability of encountering very high and very low annual tropical rainfall has increased significantly in the most recent decade (1998–present) compared with the preceding warming era (1979–1997). These changes over land and ocean are spatially coherent and comprise a rearrangement of very wet regions and a systematic expansion of dry zones. While the increased likelihood of extremes is consistent with a higher average temperature during the pause (compared with 1979–1997), it is important to note that the periods considered are also characterized by a transition from a relatively warm to a cold phase of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO). To probe the relation between contrasting phases of ENSO and extremes in accumulation further, a similar comparison is performed between 1960 and 1978 (another extended cold phase of ENSO) and the aforementioned warming era. Though limited by land‐only observations, in this cold‐to‐warm transition, remarkably, a near‐exact reversal of extremes is noted both statistically and geographically. This is despite the average temperature being higher in 1979–1997 compared with 1960–1978. Taking this evidence together, we propose that there is a fundamental mode of natural variability, involving the waxing and waning of extremes in accumulation of global tropical rainfall with different phases of ENSO.
Strategic planning as a complex and enabling managerial tool
Authors: Arend Richard J. , Zhao Y. Lisa , Song Michael , Im Subin
Published: July 2015

Research summary: The role of the strategic planning process in the ongoing generation of innovative knowledge is vital to the survival and growth of a firm, especially when technologies and market conditions are rapidly changing. We analyze data from a survey of firms in high‐technology industries to determine whether it is possible to break the commonly experienced trade‐off between strategic planning's positive influence on firm profitability and its negative influence on firm innovation. We draw on Adler and Borys's (1996) conceptualization of bureaucratic process types to identify several firm characteristics that have the potential to affect whether employees perceive strategic planning as enabling to their creative endeavors. We find that contingent effects between strategic planning and the identified firm characteristics exist that can break the trade‐off.

Managerial summary: A tension exits in the literature about whether strategic planning hurts or helps innovative activity. Our analysis of data from 227 business units in high‐technology industries indicates that strategic planning is a complex process that can be perceived by employees as enabling or coercive. Our results confirm that strategic planning negatively affects innovative activity but positively affects profitability for average firms. We find, however, controllable firm characteristics—risk‐taking and knowledge‐based reward systems—affect the trade‐off. Given the higher levels of risk‐taking and knowledge‐based reward systems, firms can use strategic planning to achieve both high returns on investment and a high level of innovative activity. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessing traceability—practical experiences and lessons learned
Authors: Regan Gilbert , Biro Miklos , Flood Derek , McCaffery Fergal
Published: July 2015

Most existing software systems that lack explicit traceability links between artefacts, or if implemented, are often not leveraged to take advantage of the information it can provide to a development or validation team.

Within the medical device domain, as in other safety critical domains, regulation normally requires such systems that are certified before entering service. This involves submission of a safety case (a reasoned argument that the system is acceptably safe) to the regulator. A safety case should include evidence that the organisation has established effective software development processes. At the heart of such processes, they must incorporate traceability.

However, numerous barriers such as a lack of awareness of traceability and a lack of guidance as to how to implement traceability hamper its effective implementation. In this paper, we address the lack of guidance on traceability implementation by presenting our experience of developing and trialling a traceability assessment model in two medical device organisations. We show that the assessment model was successful in identifying strengths and weaknesses in both organisations' implementation of traceability. Through experience of trialling the model, we propose an idea to improve it by automation, using the Open Services for Lifecycle Collaboration initiative. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Alpha‐phellandrene‐induced apoptosis in mice leukemia WEHI‐3 cells in vitro
Authors: Lin Jen‐Jyh , Hsu Shu‐Chun , Lu Kung‐Wen , Ma Yi‐Shih , Wu Chih‐Chung , Lu Hsu‐Feng , Chen Jaw‐Chyun , Lin Jaung‐Geng , Wu Ping‐Ping , Chung Jing‐Gung
Published: July 2015

Although reports have shown that α‐phellandrene (α‐PA) is one of the monoterpenes and is often used in the food and perfume industry, our previous studies have indicated that α‐PA promoted immune responses in normal mice in vivo. However, there is no available information to show that α‐PA induced cell apoptosis in cancer cells, thus, we investigated the effects of α‐PA on the cell morphology, viability, cell cycle distribution, and apoptosis in mice leukemia WEHI‐3 cells in vitro. Results indicated that α‐PA induced cell morphological changes and decreased viability, induced G0/G1 arrest and sub‐G1 phase (apoptosis) in WEHI‐3 cells. α‐PA increased the productions of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca2+ and decreased the levels of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) in dose‐ and time‐dependent manners in WEHI‐3 cells that were analyzed by flow cytometer. Results from confocal laser microscopic system examinations show that α‐PA promoted the release of cytochrome c, AIF, and Endo G from mitochondria in WEHI‐3 cells. These results are the first findings to provide new information for understanding the mechanisms by which α‐PA induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in WEHI‐3 cells in vitro. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 31: 1640–1651, 2016.
Synthesis, Structures, and Luminescent Properties of Three Coordination Polymers Constructed from Tricarboxylate and Bisbenzoimidazole Ligand
Authors: Wen Yong‐Hong , Wang Dong‐Mei , Wen Hui‐Ling , Zhang Yue , Yao Kuo
Published: July 2015

The hydrothermal reaction of the tricarboxylate ligand 5‐(carboxymethoxy)isophthalic acid (H3L) with ZnII, CdII, and SnII salts in the presence of the bisbenzoimidazole coligand 1, 3‐bis(benzimidazol‐2‐yl)‐2‐oxapropane (bbop) afforded the coordination polymers, [Zn(HL)(bbop)]n (1), [Cd(HL)(bbop)]n (2), and {[H2(bbop)][Sn2L2]}n (3). The complexes were characterized by elemental analyses, IR spectroscopy, single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analyses, thermogravimetric analyses, and fluorescence properties. The structures of complexes 1 and 2 are constructed by 1D chains and show strong blue luminescence emission. The structure of complex 3 is a 2D anionic dilayer, and shows a vase‐like porous structure occupied by the bulky [H2(bbop)]2+ cation, which is an uncommon structural feature in transition metal coordination polymers. The three complexes are further connected by hydrogen bonds to form 3D supramolecular architectures.
Hydrothermal Syntheses, Crystal Structures, and Luminescent Properties of Two Zinc(II) Coordination Polymers
Authors: Liu Haiyan , Jia Anqiang , Wang Zichen , Zhang Lihui
Published: July 2015

Two zinc(II) compounds, namely [Zn5(AmTAZ)6(OH)2]n·2n(NO3)·6n(H2O) (1) and [Zn3(AmTAZ)2(mal)2]n (2) (HAmTAZ = 3‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole, H2mal = malonic acid), were hydrothermally synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. Single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis reveals that compound 1 features a 3D framework with dodecahedral cages occupied by free nitrate ions and lattice water molecules and can be reduced into a (4, 8)‐connected flu topological network. Compound 2 features a 3D framework based on two different 1D chains. Moreover, the thermal stabilities and luminescent properties of compounds 1 and 2 were investigated.
Hypercholesterolemia Induced Immune Response and Inflammation on Progression of Atherosclerosis in Apobtm2SgyLdlrtm1Her/J Mice
Authors: Rao Lakshmi Narasimha , Ponnusamy Thiruvelselvan , Philip Sheena , Mukhopadhyay Rupak , Kakkar Vijay V. , Mundkur Lakshmi
Published: July 2015

The effect of hypercholesterolemia induced immune response and inflammation on progression of atherosclerosis in ApoBtm25gyLDLrtm1Her mice, expressing only ApoB100 and deficient in the low density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor, thus closely resembling human cholesterol transport is not well defined. Atherosclerosis was induced by a high cholesterol diet and its progression was studied at 8, 14 and 20 weeks. Antibody response was determined by ELISA. Lymphocytes in spleen and aortic expression of inflammatory markers were studied by flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry respectively. A rapid increase in plasma LDL levels in the first 8 weeks was followed by the exponential development of atherosclerosis between 8 and 14 weeks. Progression of the disease was accompanied by an accumulation of macrophages and increased expression of IL17 and IFN‐γ in the aorta. Hypercholesterolemia resulted in increased immune response to modified lipids and aortic inflammation, with an expansion of Th17 cells in the spleen. Progression of atherosclerosis showed a positive correlation (r = 0.84, P < 0.001) with Th17 cells and a negative correlation with Treg cells (r = 0.83, P < 0.001). IgM antibodies to Ox‐LDL and Th17 cells in spleen showed greatest association with disease development. Our results suggest that anti Ox‐LDL IgM antibodies, Th17 cells could be developed as a potential marker to study disease progression and to study the effect of therapeutic regulation of inflammation.
Degeneration of internal Kelvin waves in a continuous two-layer stratification
Authors: Ulloa Hugo N. , Winters Kraig B. , de la Fuente Alberto , Niño Yarko
Published: July 2015

We explore the evolution of the gravest internal Kelvin wave in a two-layer rotating cylindrical basin, using direct numerical simulations (DNS) with a hyper-viscosity/diffusion approach to illustrate different dynamic and energetic regimes. The initial condition is derived from Csanady’s (J. Geophys. Res., vol. 72, 1967, pp. 4151–4162) conceptual model, which is adapted by allowing molecular diffusion to smooth the discontinuous idealized solution over a transition scale, ${\it\delta}_{i}$, taken to be small compared to both layer thicknesses $h_{\ell },\ell =1,2$. The different regimes are obtained by varying the initial wave amplitude, ${\it\eta}_{0}$, for the same stratification and rotation. Increasing ${\it\eta}_{0}$ increases both the tendency for wave steepening and the shear in the vicinity of the density interface. We present results across several regimes: from the damped, linear–laminar regime (DLR), for which ${\it\eta}_{0}\sim {\it\delta}_{i}$ and the Kelvin wave retains its linear character, to the nonlinear–turbulent transition regime (TR), for which the amplitude ${\it\eta}_{0}$ approaches the thickness of the (thinner) upper layer $h_{1}$, and nonlinearity and dispersion become significant, leading to hydrodynamic instabilities at the interface. In the TR, localized turbulent patches are produced by Kelvin wave breaking, i.e. shear and convective instabilities that occur at the front and tail of energetic waves within an internal Rossby radius of deformation from the boundary. The mixing and dissipation associated with the patches are characterized in terms of dimensionless turbulence intensity parameters that quantify the locally elevated dissipation rates of kinetic energy and buoyancy variance.
Stability of a bi-layer free film: simultaneous or individual rupture events?
Authors: Stewart Peter S. , Feng Jie , Kimpton Laura S. , Griffiths Ian M. , Stone Howard A.
Published: July 2015

We consider the stability of a long free film of liquid composed of two immiscible layers of differing viscosities, where each layer experiences a van der Waals force between its interfaces. We analyse the different ways in which the system can exhibit interfacial instability when the liquid layers are sufficiently thin. For an excess of surfactant on one gas–liquid interface, the coupling between the layers is relatively weak and the instability is manifested as temporally separated rupture events in each layer. Conversely, in the absence of surfactant, the coupling between the layers is much stronger and the instability is manifested as rupture of both layers simultaneously. These features are consistent with recent experimental observations.
Downstream decay of fully developed Dean flow
Authors: Ault Jesse T. , Chen Kevin K. , Stone Howard A.
Published: July 2015

Direct numerical simulations were used to investigate the downstream decay of fully developed flow in a $180^{\circ }$ curved pipe that exits into a straight outlet. The flow is studied for a range of Reynolds numbers and pipe-to-curvature radius ratios. Velocity, pressure and vorticity fields are calculated to visualize the downstream decay process. Transition ‘decay’ lengths are calculated using the norm of the velocity perturbation from the Hagen–Poiseuille velocity profile, the wall-averaged shear stress, the integral of the magnitude of the vorticity, and the maximum value of the $Q$-criterion on a cross-section. Transition lengths to the fully developed Poiseuille distribution are found to have a linear dependence on the Reynolds number with no noticeable dependence on the pipe-to-curvature radius ratio, despite the flow’s dependence on both parameters. This linear dependence of Reynolds number on the transition length is explained by linearizing the Navier–Stokes equations about the Poiseuille flow, using the form of the fully developed Dean flow as an initial condition, and using appropriate scaling arguments. We extend our results by comparing this flow recovery downstream of a curved pipe to the flow recovery in the downstream outlets of a T-junction flow. Specifically, we compare the transition lengths between these flows and document how the transition lengths depend on the Reynolds number.
Early evolution of the compressible mixing layer issued from two turbulent streams
Authors: Pirozzoli Sergio , Bernardini Matteo , Marié Simon , Grasso Francesco
Published: July 2015

Direct numerical simulation of the spatially developing mixing layer issuing from two turbulent streams past a splitter plate is carried out under mild compressibility conditions. The study mainly focuses on the early evolution of the mixing region, where transition occurs from a wake-like to a canonical mixing-layer-like behaviour, corresponding to the filling-up of the initial momentum deficit. The mixing layer is found to initially grow faster than linearly, and then at a sub-linear rate further downstream. The Reynolds stress components are in close agreement with reference experiments and follow a continued slow decay till the end of the computational domain. These observations are suggestive of the occurrence of incomplete similarity in the developing turbulent mixing layer. Coherent eddies are found to form in the close proximity of the splitter plate trailing edge, that are mainly organized in bands, initially skewed and then parallel to the spanwise direction. Dynamic mode decomposition is used to educe the dynamically relevant features, and it is found to be capable of singling out the coherent eddies responsible for mixing layer development.
Theoretical Estimation of Maximum Ellipsoidal Magnitude of a Low-Viscosity Droplet in a Parallel Gas Stream
Authors: Wang Z.-B. , Bai H.-F. , Xia J.-X. , Zhong H.-Q. , Li Y.-C.
Published: July 2015

Maximum ellipsoidal magnitude of the droplet is an important basic parameter for calculating drag force, droplets axial-velocity and dispersed-phase pressure gradient in an annular-mist pipe flow. An analytical correlation to predict the maximum ellipsoidal magnitude of a low-viscosity droplet in a parallel gas stream based on energy conservation and volume conservation. Stagnant pressure distribution on droplet surface is revised from Flachsbart's formula. The proposed correlation has clear physical meaning and easy to use. The correlation captures the deformation mechanism with an average absolute percent error of 9.53%. The effect of stagnant pressure distribution on the proposed correlation's accuracy is discussed.