bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COX‐2 is required for the modulation of spinal nociceptive information related to ephrinB/EphB signalling
Authors: Zhou X.‐L. , Wang Y. , Zhang C.‐J. , Yu L.‐N. , Cao J.‐L. , Yan M.
Published: April 2015

Background

EphB receptors and their ephrinB ligands are implicated in modulating spinal nociceptive information processing. Here, we investigated whether cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), acts as a downstream effector, participates in the modulation of spinal nociceptive information related to ephrinB/EphB signalling.

Methods

Thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia were measured by using radiant heat and von Frey filaments test, respectively. Real‐time PCR (RT‐PCR) was used to detect the expression of spinal COX‐2 mRNA. Spinal COX‐2 and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) protein were determined by Western blot analysis.

Results

Intrathecal injection of ephrinB2–Fc caused thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia, which were accompanied by increased expression of spinal COX‐2 mRNA and protein. Inhibition of spinal COX‐2 prevented and reversed pain behaviours induced by the intrathecal injection of ephrinB2–Fc. Blockade of EphB receptors by intrathecal injection of EphB2–Fc reduced complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)‐induced inflammatory pain behaviours, which were accompanied by decreased expression of spinal COX‐2 mRNA and protein. Furthermore, treatment with U0126, a mitogen‐activated protein/extracellular signal‐regulated kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitor, suppressed spinal ERK activation and COX‐2 mRNA and protein expression induced by intrathecal injection of ephrinB1–Fc.

Conclusions

These results confirmed the important involvement of COX‐2 in the modulation of spinal nociceptive information related to ephrinBs–EphBs signalling.
Response spectrum analysis for floor acceleration
Authors: Pozzi Matteo , Der Kiureghian Armen
Published: April 2015

The peak floor acceleration (PFA) is a critical parameter influencing the performance of non‐structural elements in buildings. This paper develops a response spectrum analysis method based on the complete quadratic combination (CQC) rule to estimate the PFA. The method accounts for the rigid contribution of truncated higher modes and the cross‐correlations between all pairs of modes. The approximation is introduced in the time domain and then formulated in the frequency domain by CQC. Application of the method to a continuous cantilever beam idealizing a building with shear walls is presented and compared with alternative formulations. The proposed method is able to provide a consistent estimation of the PFA along the entire structure, not only where the PFA is principally influenced by the first few flexible modes but also where the PFA is mainly related to the rigid response of the structure, for example, near its base. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Uptake routes and toxicokinetics of silver nanoparticles and silver ions in the earthworm Lumbricus rubellus
Authors: Diez-Ortiz Maria , Lahive Elma , Kille Peter , Powell Kate , Morgan A. John , Jurkschat Kerstin , Van Gestel Cornelis A.M. , Mosselmans J. Fred W. , Svendsen Claus , Spurgeon David J.
Published: April 2015

Current bioavailability models, such as the free ion activity model and biotic ligand model, explicitly consider that metal exposure will be mainly to the dissolved metal in ionic form. With the rise of nanotechnology products and the increasing release of metal-based nanoparticles (NPs) to the environment, such models may increasingly be applied to support risk assessment. It is not immediately clear, however, whether the assumption of metal ion exposure will be relevant for NPs. Using an established approach of oral gluing, a toxicokinetics study was conducted to investigate the routes of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and Ag+ ion uptake in the soil-dwelling earthworm Lumbricus rubellus. The results indicated that a significant part of the Ag uptake in the earthworms is through oral/gut uptake for both Ag+ ions and NPs. Thus, sealing the mouth reduced Ag uptake by between 40% and 75%. An X-ray analysis of the internal distribution of Ag in transverse sections confirmed the presence of increased Ag concentrations in exposed earthworm tissues. For the AgNPs but not the Ag+ ions, high concentrations were associated with the gut wall, liver-like chloragogenous tissue, and nephridia, which suggest a pathway for AgNP uptake, detoxification, and excretion via these organs. Overall, the results indicate that Ag in the ionic and NP forms is assimilated and internally distributed in earthworms and that this uptake occurs predominantly via the gut epithelium and less so via the body wall. The importance of oral exposure questions the application of current metal bioavailability models, which implicitly consider that the dominant route of exposure is via the soil solution, for bioavailability assessment and modeling of metal-based NPs. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:2263–2270. © 2015 SETAC
Simultaneous catalytic reduction of N2O and NOx produced in a fluidized bed incineration of sewage sludge
Authors: Lee Seung‐Jae , Ryu In‐Soo , Jeon Sang‐Goo , Moon Seung‐Hyun
Published: April 2015

Fluidized bed incineration of sewage sludge could produce large amounts of N2O due to the relatively high nitrogen content of the sewage sludge and low incineration temperatures. In this study, N2O and NOx emissions released during the fluidized bed incineration of dried sewage sludge powder were investigated. Sewage sludge feeding rate was about 8∼10 kg/h, and bed aspect ratio was fixed to ca. 1.2. Superficial velocity was adjusted to ca. 1.9 m/s. The concentrations of N2O and NOx in the exhaust gas were greatly influenced by bed temperature in a range between 850 °C and 950 °C. In the simultaneous catalytic reduction of N2O and NOx on an Fe/BEA pellet catalyst with NH3, most of the N2O and NOx were removed when heated above the inlet reaction temperature 410 °C. Thus, simultaneous catalytic reduction was shown to be a promising N2O abatement technology for the fluidized bed incineration of sewage sludge. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Clar as Mud? Origins of the head mirror: A historical note
Authors: Laccourreye Ollivier , Werner Alfred , McGill Iain , Holsinger F. Christopher
Published: April 2015

In Europe, the name “Clar” immediately evokes to any otorhinolaryngologist the classic head mirror that remains a symbol of our profession. Yet, the origin of Clar has never been investigated. In this clinical and historical review, based on an Internet and PubMed database search together with perusal of Fischer's Biographical Lexikon, the authors seek to elucidate this medical enigma. The data presented suggest that Clar was not a physician but rather a term picked by the company that designed the mirror by the end of the 19th century to underscore the bright and sharp view provided by this then innovative medical device. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: 930–932, 2016
Analysis of risk factors for flap loss and salvage in free flap head and neck reconstruction
Authors: Chang Edward I. , Zhang Hong , Liu Jun , Yu Peirong , Skoracki Roman J. , Hanasono Matthew M.
Published: April 2015

Background

Risk factors and techniques for free flap salvage in head and neck reconstruction are poorly described.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of all head and neck free flaps performed from 2000 to 2010.

Results

Overall, 151 of 2296 flaps (6.6%) underwent salvage for microvascular complications. Age, comorbidities, surgeon experience (p = .88), vein grafts, and supercharging (p = .45) did not affect flap salvage. Muscle‐only flaps (p = .002) were associated with significantly worse outcomes. Coupled venous anastomoses were superior to handsewn anastomoses (p = .03). Arteriovenous thrombosis had worse outcomes than a venous or arterial thrombosis alone (p < .0001). Anticoagulation, thrombolytics, and thrombectomy did not improve survival. Multiple takebacks (p = .003) and late takebacks (>3 days) had significantly worse outcomes (p = .003). Flap salvage was 60.3% successful with 60 total flap losses (2.6%).

Conclusion

Although flap salvage should be attempted, multiple attempts are not recommended, especially for muscle‐only flaps. Combined arteriovenous and late thrombosis has a dismal prognosis regardless of different salvage techniques. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E771–E775, 2016
Role of radiosurgery in the management of glomus tumors
Authors: Martín Isabel Tovar , Ávila Rosario Del Moral , Herrera Mercedes Zurita , Arregui Gregorio , Osorio–Ceballos Juan Luis , Rojas Enrique Saura , Almansa Ángel Horcajadas , Arrebola Juan P. , Rull Jorge Pastor , Hernández José Expósito , Ramírez Escarlata López
Published: April 2015

Background

Glomus tumors are benign slow‐growing hypervascular neoplasms. The role of radiosurgery for the treatment of these tumors has increased. The purpose of this study was to show our experience with glomus tumors and to analyze different prognostic factors.

Methods

Data from 39 adult patients were retrospectively analyzed. All of them underwent head frame stereotactic radiosurgery with linear accelerator (LINAC). Tumor and symptomatic control were calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Bivariate statistical analyses were performed to examine different prognostic factors.

Results

The median follow‐up was 71 months. The radiological local and symptomatic control was achieved in 37 patients (94.8%) and 29 patients (74.3%), respectively. Toxicity was detected in 4 patients (10%). In the bivariate analysis, dose coverage and maximum dose were associated with tumor control with an odds ratio (OR) of 5.29 (p = .041) and 2.67 (p = .056), respectively.

Conclusion

Stereotactic radiosurgery is a safe and efficient treatment for glomus tumors that is associated with high probability of radiological and symptomatic control and low incidence of morbidity. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E798–E804, 2016
“You Can't Do Both—Something Will Give”: Limitations of the Targets Culture in Managing UK Health Care Workforces
Authors: McCann Leo , Granter Edward , Hassard John , Hyde Paula
Published: April 2015

Based on a three‐year ethnographic study of four UK National Health Service (NHS) organizations, we explore the everyday cultural experience of managing clinical and administrative workforces. Although NHS organizations claim to function as enlightened HRM employers, we argue that the inflexible application of metrics‐based target systems to clinical and administrative tasks, including HRM operations, can result in dysfunctional outcomes for patient care and workforce morale. Reminiscent of the recent Mid Staffordshire health care scandal, the priorities attached to NHS personnel meeting the demands of performance management systems can prove incompatible with them also meeting the fundamental “human” needs of patients. The everyday experience of health care organization becomes one of employees reconciling competing logics of business efficiency and integrity of care. Trapped metaphorically between shrinking resources and expanding targets, the inclination—on the frontline and at mid‐management level—is to extend the integrity of care, although this is sometimes impossible and can prove problematic in terms of system accountability. In response to such organizational tensions the behavior of many frontline and mid‐management staffs ultimately reflects a form of “street‐level bureaucracy”—a situation in which traditional professional norms are reasserted informally in ways that often transgress prescribed performance systems. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Oxygen flux and penetration depth in the sediments of aerated and non‐aerated lake basins
Authors: Horppila Jukka , Köngäs Petrina , Niemistö Juha , Hietanen Susanna
Published: April 2015

The effects of hypolimnetic aeration on oxygen penetration depth and oxygen flux into the sediment (DOU) were studied during two successive years. The study was conducted by comparing data from the aerated Enonselkä basin with the non‐aerated Kajaanselkä basin of Lake Vesijärvi (southern Finland). Aeration increased the average O2 concentration in near‐bottom layers. This was mainly due to shortened stratification period in the aerated basin, which was again attributed to the positive effect of aeration on hypolimnetic water temperature. Aeration did not prevent hypoxia during summer stratification and oxygen penetration depth in the sediment and DOU did not increase. During summer stratification DOU was even lower at the aerated than at the non‐aerated basin. The weak effect of aeration on DOU and oxygen penetration was mostly due to the minor effect on hypolimnetic oxygen concentrations. The positive effect of aeration on hypolimnetic O2 concentration was negated by the positive effects of aeration on hypolimnetic temperature and turbulence that increase oxygen consumption in the water column. Due to the generally low effect on DOU, the present aeration effort in Enonselkä does not have positive effects on sediment quality.
Nf1 Haploinsufficiency Alters Myeloid Lineage Commitment and Function, Leading to Deranged Skeletal Homeostasis
Authors: Rhodes Steven D , Yang Hao , Dong Ruizhi , Menon Keshav , He Yongzheng , Li Zhaomin , Chen Shi , Staser Karl W , Jiang Li , Wu Xiaohua , Yang Xianlin , Peng Xianghong , Mohammad Khalid S , Guise Theresa A , Xu Mingjiang , Yang Feng-Chun
Published: April 2015

Although nullizygous loss of NF1 leads to myeloid malignancies, haploinsufficient loss of NF1 (Nf1) has been shown to contribute to osteopenia and osteoporosis which occurs in approximately 50% of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) patients. Bone marrow mononuclear cells of haploinsufficient NF1 patients and Nf1+/– mice exhibit increased osteoclastogenesis and accelerated bone turnover; however, the culprit hematopoietic lineages responsible for perpetuating these osteolytic manifestations have yet to be elucidated. Here we demonstrate that conditional inactivation of a single Nf1 allele within the myeloid progenitor cell population (Nf1-LysM) is necessary and sufficient to promote multiple osteoclast gains-in-function, resulting in enhanced osteoclastogenesis and accelerated osteoclast bone lytic activity in response to proresorptive challenge in vivo. Surprisingly, mice conditionally Nf1 heterozygous in mature, terminally differentiated osteoclasts (Nf1-Ctsk) do not exhibit any of these skeletal phenotypes, indicating a critical requirement for Nf1 haploinsufficiency at a more primitive/progenitor stage of myeloid development in perpetuating osteolytic activity. We further identified p21Ras-dependent hyperphosphorylation of Pu.1 within the nucleus of Nf1 haploinsufficient myelomonocytic osteoclast precursors, providing a novel therapeutic target for the potential treatment of NF1 associated osteolytic manifestations. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
DOCK 6: Impact of new features and current docking performance
Authors: Allen William J. , Balius Trent E. , Mukherjee Sudipto , Brozell Scott R. , Moustakas Demetri T. , Lang P. Therese , Case David A. , Kuntz Irwin D. , Rizzo Robert C.
Published: April 2015

This manuscript presents the latest algorithmic and methodological developments to the structure‐based design program DOCK 6.7 focused on an updated internal energy function, new anchor selection control, enhanced minimization options, a footprint similarity scoring function, a symmetry‐corrected root‐mean‐square deviation algorithm, a database filter, and docking forensic tools. An important strategy during development involved use of three orthogonal metrics for assessment and validation: pose reproduction over a large database of 1043 protein‐ligand complexes (SB2012 test set), cross‐docking to 24 drug‐target protein families, and database enrichment using large active and decoy datasets (Directory of Useful Decoys [DUD]‐E test set) for five important proteins including HIV protease and IGF‐1R. Relative to earlier versions, a key outcome of the work is a significant increase in pose reproduction success in going from DOCK 4.0.2 (51.4%) → 5.4 (65.2%) → 6.7 (73.3%) as a result of significant decreases in failure arising from both sampling 24.1% → 13.6% → 9.1% and scoring 24.4% → 21.1% → 17.5%. Companion cross‐docking and enrichment studies with the new version highlight other strengths and remaining areas for improvement, especially for systems containing metal ions. The source code for DOCK 6.7 is available for download and free for academic users at http://dock.compbio.ucsf.edu/. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Searching for a relevant definition of sarcopenia: results from the cross‐sectional EPIDOS study
Authors: Dupuy Charlotte , Lauwers‐Cances Valérie , Guyonnet Sophie , Gentil Catherine , Abellan Van Kan Gabor , Beauchet Olivier , Schott Anne‐Marie , Vellas Bruno , Rolland Yves
Published: April 2015

Background

The diversity of definitions proposed for sarcopenia has been rarely tested in the same population, and so far, their clinical utilities for predicting physical difficulties could not be clearly understood. Our objective is to report the prevalence of sarcopenia and the characteristics of sarcopenic community‐dwelling older women according to the different definitions of sarcopenia currently proposed. We also assessed these definitions for their incremental predictive value over currently standard predictors for some self‐reported difficulties in physical function and knee extension strength.

Methods

Cross‐sectional analysis included data from 3025 non‐disabled women aged 75 years or older without previous history of hip fracture from the inclusion visit of the EPIDémiologie de l'OStéoporose study. A total body composition evaluation was available for 2725 women. Sarcopenia was defined using six different definitions of sarcopenia based on different muscle mass, gait speed, and grip strength cut‐offs. Self‐reported difficulties in physical function and knee extension strength were collected. Logistic regression and multiple linear regression models were built for each physical dysfunction, and the predictive capacity of sarcopenia (one model for each definition) was studied using the C‐statistic, the net reclassification index, or adjusted R2.

Results

The estimated prevalence of sarcopenia ranged from 3.3–20.0%. Only 85 participants (3.1%) were identified having sarcopenia according to all definitions. All definitions were, to some degree, associated with self‐reported difficulties in physical function and knee extension strength, but none improved the predictive ability of the self‐reported difficulties in physical function. Conversely, all definitions accounted for a small but significant amount of explained variation for predicting knee extension strength.

Conclusions

Prevalence of sarcopenia varies widely depending on the definition adopted. Based on this research, the current definitions for sarcopenia does not substantially increment the predictive value of clinical characteristics of patients to predict self‐reported physical difficulties and knee extension strength.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Newly Synthesized N,S‐Bisphosphonate Derivatives
Authors: Abdou Wafaa M. , Shaddy Abeer A. , Khidre Rizk E. , Awad Ghada E. A.
Published: April 2015

An easy strategy for the synthesis of tetraethyl‐2‐(3‐mercapto‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐4‐ylamino)‐2‐(aryl)ethane‐1,1‐diyldiphosphonate and tetraethyl‐(6‐(aryl)‐5,6‐dihydro[1,2,4]triazolo[3,4‐b]‐[1,3,4]thiadiazol‐6‐yl)methylenediphosphonate derivatives with reasonable 67–85% overall yields has been developed. The approach was achieved via applying Wadsworth–Horner–Emmons reagent, tetraethylmethylenebisphosphonate, to 4‐(arylideneamino)‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazole‐3‐thiols under phase‐transfer catalysis conditions. Screening results of antimicrobial potency for 12 out of 17 methylene‐1,1‐bisphosphonate products were reported. Two of the tested thiadiazolomethylenebisphosphonates displayed better spectrum of antimicrobial activity against the pathogens, compared with that of the positive controls.
Standardized uptake value and apparent diffusion coefficient of endometrial cancer evaluated with integrated whole‐body PET/MR: Correlation with pathological prognostic factors
Authors: Shih I‐Lun , Yen Ruoh‐Fang , Chen Chi‐An , Chen Bang‐Bin , Wei Shwu‐Yuan , Chang Wen‐Chun , Sheu Bor‐Ching , Cheng Wen‐Fang , Tseng Yao‐Hui , Chen Xin‐Jia , Chen Chi‐Hau , Wei Lin‐Hung , Chiang Ying‐Cheng , Torng Pao‐Ling , Yen Men‐Luh , Shih Tiffany Ting‐Fang
Published: April 2015

Purpose

To evaluate the correlation between maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) and minimum apparent diffusion coefficient (ADCmin) of endometrial cancer derived from an integrated positron emission tomography / magnetic resonance (PET/MR) system and to determine their correlation with pathological prognostic factors.

Materials and Methods

This prospective study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the hospital, and informed consent was obtained. Between April and December 2014, 47 consecutive patients with endometrial cancer were enrolled and underwent simultaneous PET/MR examinations before surgery. Thirty‐six patients with measurable tumors on PET/MR were included for image analysis. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the correlation between SUVmax and ADCmin of the tumors. The Mann–Whitney U‐test was utilized to evaluate relationships between these two imaging biomarkers and pathological prognostic factors.

Results

The mean SUVmax and ADCmin were 14.7 ± 7.1 and 0.48 ± 0.13 × 10−3 mm2/s, respectively. A significant inverse correlation was found between SUVmax and ADCmin (r = –0.53; P = 0.001). SUVmax was significantly higher in tumors with advanced stage, deep myometrial invasion, cervical invasion, lymphovascular space involvement, and lymph node metastasis (P < 0.05). ADCmin was lower in tumors with higher grade, advanced stage, and cervical invasion (P < 0.05). The ratio of SUVmax to ADCmin was higher in tumors with higher grade, advanced stage, deep myometrial invasion, cervical invasion, lymphovascular space involvement, and lymph node metastasis (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

SUVmax and ADCmin of endometrial cancer derived from integrated PET/MR are inversely correlated and are associated with pathological prognostic factors. J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2015;42:1723–1732.
Assessing the progress of colonization by arbuscular mycorrhiza of four plant species under different temperature regimes
Authors: Carvalho Mário , Brito Isabel , Alho Luís , Goss Michael J.
Published: April 2015

To capitalize on the benefits offered by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in agricultural systems, the effect of low soil temperature has to be taken into consideration over large areas of the planet. However, the effect of suboptimal root‐zone temperatures on AMF colonization is poorly understood. It has been suggested that it depends on the host plant species. We hypothesized that this interdependence is a function of the parameter used to assess the presence of AMF in the roots. In a pot experiment with non‐sterilized soil, we investigated the influence of three soil temperatures (10, 15, and 20°C) on the progress of root colonization of four host plant species (Ornithopus compressus, Lolium rigidum, Triticum aestivum, and Zea mays) by indigenous AMF. Plant root density, arbuscular colonization rate (AC) and colonized root density (CRD) were assessed 14, 28, and 42 d after sowing. Based on CRD, the effect of temperature on the progress of root colonization by AMF was independent of the host plant species. The apparent influence of the host plant species was only due to the species‐specific effect of soil temperature on root growth and therefore on AC. The host plant species only determined the minimum temperature for the AM colonization initiation, possibly due to species‐specific response of root growth and exudation to cool temperatures.
Evaluating the use of plant hormones and biostimulators in forage pastures to enhance shoot dry biomass production by perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenneL.)
Authors: Zaman Mohammad , Kurepin Leonid V , Catto Warwick , Pharis Richard P
Published: April 2015

Fertilisation of established perennial ryegrass forage pastures with nitrogen (N)‐based fertilisers is currently the most common practice used on farms to increase pasture forage biomass yield. However, over‐fertilisation can lead to undesired environmental impacts, including nitrate leaching into waterways and increased gaseous emissions of ammonia and nitrous oxide to the atmosphere. Additionally, there is growing interest from pastoral farmers to adopt methods for increasing pasture dry matter yield which use ‘natural’, environmentally safe plant growth stimulators, together with N‐based fertilisers. Such plant growth stimulators include plant hormones and plant growth promotive microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi (‘biostimulators’, which may produce plant growth‐inducing hormones), as well as extracts of seaweed (marine algae). This review presents examples and discusses current uses of plant hormones and biostimulators, applied alone or together with N‐based fertilisers, to enhance shoot dry matter yield of forage pasture species, with an emphasis on perennial ryegrass. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Biodegradable Polymeric Films and Membranes Processing and Forming for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Suntornnond Ratima , An Jia , Yeong Wai Yee , Chua Chee Kai
Published: April 2015

This paper critically reviews the overall process of biodegradable polymer films and membranes scaffold fabrication for tissue engineering (TE). Various fabrication techniques including both the processing and the post‐processing methods are presented. The processing methods are categorized systematically into basic casting technique, porogen technique, and tooling technique. A comprehensive discussion on post‐processing steps and surface patterning techniques is also included to showcase the potential of membrane in TE applications. This paper also evaluates the requirements of films and membrane scaffolds for specific TE applications. The challenges and future outlook of membrane scaffolds are highlighted with potential application in 3D vascularized tissues fabrication.
Pain with sitting related to injury of the posterior femoral cutaneous nerve
Authors: Dellon A. Lee
Published: April 2015

Purpose

The ischial tuberosity, referred to as the “sit bone” by patients with pain, is surrounded by critical nerves. This research relates, for the first time, the involvement of the posterior femoral cutaneous nerve (PFCN), including its perineal and inferior cluneal branches to the symptom of “sitting pain.” An experience with PFCN resection for treatment of pain with sitting is reported.

Patients and methods: The computer records were searched from 2010 through August of 2013, identifying 17 patients who had surgery on PFCN. Fifteen of these 17 were women. Mean age of 17 patients was 54.6 years (range 30–74 years). Each patient had pain with sitting, and spent much of the day standing or lying down. Each had symptoms involving posterior thigh and buttock. Three patients had bilateral problems. Each of 17 patients in this series had resection of PFCN through an incision in the gluteal crease. Resection included inferior cluneal branches and perineal branch.

Results

Of 17 patients, at a mean of 19.4 months (range 6 to 42 months) after surgery, the visual analog scale improved from a mean of 9.2 to a mean of 2.1 (P < 0.0001). There were 7 excellent, 6 good, 3 fair, and 1 poor result, for 76% good to excellent result in terms of pain relief and improvement in being able to sit.

Conclusion

Pain with sitting can be due to injury to PFCN, a previously unreported etiology. Good to excellent results can be expected in 76% of carefully selected patients. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 35:463–468, 2015.
Methods to determine effects of cranberry proanthocyanidins on extraintestinal infections: Relevance for urinary tract health
Authors: Feliciano Rodrigo P. , Krueger Christian G. , Reed Jess D.
Published: April 2015

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are one of the most frequent extraintestinal infections caused by Escherichia coli (ExPEC). Cranberry juice has been used for decades to alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrent UTI. The putative compounds in cranberries are proanthocyanidins (PAC), specifically PAC with “A‐type” bonds. Since PAC are not absorbed, their health benefits in UTI may occur through interactions at the mucosal surface in the gastrointestinal tract. Recent research showed that higher agglutination of ExPEC and reduced bacterial invasion are correlated with higher number of “A‐type” bonds and higher degree of polymerization of PAC. An understanding of PAC structure–activity relationship is becoming feasible due to advancements, not only in obtaining purified PAC fractions that allow accurate estimation, but also in high‐resolution MS methodologies, specifically, MALDI‐TOF MS. A recent MALDI‐TOF MS deconvolution method allows quantification of the ratios of “A‐type” to “B‐type” bonds enabling characteristic fingerprints. Moreover, the generation of fluorescently labeled PAC allows visualization of the interaction between ExPEC and PAC with microscopy. These tools can be used to establish structure–activity relationships between PAC and UTI and give insight on the mechanism of action of these compounds in the gut without being absorbed.
MR elastography for evaluating regeneration of tissue‐engineered cartilage in an ectopic mouse model
Authors: Khalilzad‐Sharghi Vahid , Han Zhongji , Xu Huihui , Othman Shadi F.
Published: April 2015

Purpose

The purpose of the present study was to apply noninvasive methods for monitoring regeneration and mechanical properties of tissue‐engineered cartilage in vivo at different growth stages using MR elastography (MRE).

Methods

Three types of scaffolds, including silk, collagen, and gelatin seeded by human mesenchymal stem cells, were implanted subcutaneously in mice and imaged at 9.4T where the shear stiffness and transverse MR relaxation time (T2) were measured for the regenerating constructs for 8 wk. An MRE phase contrast spin echo–based sequence was used for collecting MRE images. At the conclusion of the in vivo study, constructs were excised and transcript levels of cartilage‐specific genes were quantitated using reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Tissue‐engineered constructs showed a cartilage‐like construct with progressive tissue formation characterized by increase in shear stiffness and decrease in T2 that can be correlated with increased cartilage transcript levels including aggrecan, type II collagen, and cartilage oligomeric matrix protein after 8 wk of in vivo culture.

Conclusion

Altogether, the outcome of this research demonstrates the feasibility of MRE and MRI for noninvasive monitoring of engineered cartilage construct's growth after implantation and provides noninvasive biomarkers for regeneration, which may be translated into treatment of tissue defects. Magn Reson Med 75:1209–1217, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modeling carbon nanotube reinforced composite materials with the cylindrical method of cells
Authors: Hackett Robert M.
Published: April 2015

Micromechanics modeling, utilizing a cylindrical method of cells (CMOC) model, is employed to obtain the effective mechanical properties of an elastic transversely isotropic, isothermal material system consisting of a hollow carbon nanotube (CNT) embedded in an isotropic polymeric material matrix. It is shown that weak interfacial bonding between the CNT and polymeric matrix, which is characteristic of this type of material system, can be modeled with the CMOC. Numerical solutions of the effective independent material constants are obtained, based upon appropriate values of the properties of the carbon nanotube and epoxy matrix. The numerical results are presented graphically and compared with corresponding classical closed‐form solutions. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The weak substitution method – an application of the mortar method for patch coupling in NURBS‐based isogeometric analysis
Authors: Dornisch W. , Vitucci G. , Klinkel S.
Published: April 2015

In this contribution, a mortar‐type method for the coupling of non‐conforming NURBS (Non‐Uniform Rational B‐spline) surface patches is proposed. The connection of non‐conforming patches with shared degrees of freedom requires mutual refinement, which propagates throughout the whole patch due to the tensor‐product structure of NURBS surfaces. Thus, methods to handle non‐conforming meshes are essential in NURBS‐based isogeometric analysis. The main objective of this work is to provide a simple and efficient way to couple the individual patches of complex geometrical models without altering the variational formulation. The deformations of the interface control points of adjacent patches are interrelated with a master‐slave relation. This relation is established numerically using the weak form of the equality of mutual deformations along the interface. With the help of this relation, the interface degrees of freedom of the slave patch can be condensated out of the system. A natural connection of the patches is attained without additional terms in the weak form. The proposed method is also applicable for nonlinear computations without further measures. Linear and geometrical nonlinear examples show the high accuracy and robustness of the new method. A comparison to reference results and to computations with the Lagrange multiplier method is given. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimal feedback gains determination method for nominal reentry guidance
Authors: Shen Hong‐Xin , Li Hai‐Yang
Published: April 2015

This paper presents a new method for solving feedback gains in guidance based on optimal control theory. The determination of feedback gains is a critical problem for nominal guidance, because landing precision benefits from appropriate feedback gains. The magnitude of the bank angle is determined by minimizing the total error of final altitude as well as downrange requirement to the landing site. The problem is formulated as an optimal control problem by means of the Pontryagin's maximum principle, and backward integration is used to solve the problem based on homogeneous property. The proposed approach not only can avoid linearizing the nonlinear dynamic equations, but also are applicable to different guidance equations. Validation shows that the proposed approach can provide consistent results with that of Apollo. Despite employment of nominal guidance in the entire reentry of lunar mission, the proposed approach demonstrates good performance in all simulation cases while subject to significant disturbances. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phase 2 trial of sorafenib in children and young adults with refractory solid tumors: A report from the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Kim AeRang , Widemann Brigitte C. , Krailo Mark , Jayaprakash Nalini , Fox Elizabeth , Weigel Brenda , Blaney Susan M.
Published: April 2015

Background

Sorafenib is an oral small molecule inhibitor of multiple kinases controlling tumor growth and angiogenesis. The purpose of the phase 2 study was to determine the response rate of sorafenib and gain further information on the associated toxicities, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of sorafenib in children and young adults with relapsed or refractory tumors including rhabdomyosarcoma, Wilms tumor, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC).

Procedure

Sorafenib, 200 mg/m2/dose, was administered every 12 hr continuously for 28 day cycles using a two‐stage design in two primary strata (rhabdomyosarcoma and Wilms tumor) and two secondary strata (HCC and PTC). Correlative studies in consenting patients included determination of sorafenib steady state trough concentrations and assessments of VEGF and sVEGFR2.

Results

Twenty patients (median age of 11 years; range, 5–21) enrolled. No objective responses (RECIST) were observed in the 10 evaluable patients enrolled in each of the two primary disease strata of rhabdomyosarcoma and Wilms tumor. No patients with HCC or PTC were enrolled. Sorafenib was not associated with an excessive rate of dose‐limiting toxicity (DLT). The mean ± SD steady state concentration during cycle 1 day 15 was 6.5 ± 3.9 μg/ml (n = 10).

Conclusions

Sorafenib was well tolerated in children at 200 mg/m2/dose twice daily on a continuous regimen with toxicity profile and steady state drug concentrations similar to those previously reported. Single agent sorafenib was inactive in children with recurrent or refractory rhabdomyosarcoma or Wilms tumor. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2015;62:1562–1566. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rubber composite materials with the effects of electromagnetic shielding
Authors: Sýkora Richard , Babayan Vladimir , Ušáková Mariana , Kruželák Ján , Hudec Ivan
Published: April 2015

This work deals with the preparation and properties evaluation of magnetic composites with acrylonitrile butadiene rubber matrix, which are able to shield electromagnetic radiation. In addition to the rubber matrix, these materials contained soft magnetic filler (Li or H40) and ingredients necessary for vulcanization process of prepared rubber compounds (sulfur, accelerator N‐cyclohexyl‐2‐benzothiazole sulfenamide, activators ZnO, and stearin). This study was aimed at the preparation of elastomeric composite materials and evaluation of the influence of ferrite weight fraction on curing characteristics, physical–mechanical, and magnetic properties. The results showed that with increasing content of filler, the moduli, and tensile strength decline. Conversely, elongation at break increased with increasing amount of filler. All composites containing 200 and more phr of ferrite showed sufficient absorption shielding properties, whereas lithium ferrite shows better shielding properties compared with manganese–zinc ferrite H40. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:2933–2939, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Adipocyte‐derived monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 (MCP‐1) promotes prostate cancer progression through the induction of MMP‐2 activity
Authors: Ito Yusuke , Ishiguro Hitoshi , Kobayashi Naohito , Hasumi Hisashi , Watanabe Masatoshi , Yao Masahiro , Uemura Hiroji
Published: April 2015

BACKGROUND

Obesity is known to be associated with prostate cancer development and progression, but the detailed mechanism is not clear. Monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 (MCP‐1) is secreted from cancer cells, stromal cells, and adipocytes, and it is involved in prostate cancer progression. Here we investigated the biological role of MCP‐1 secreted from adipocytes for prostate cancer cells.

METHODS

Human pre‐adipocytes (HPAds) were cultured and differentiated to mature adipocytes. Conditioned medium (CM) from HPAd cells was obtained using phenol red‐free RPMI1640 medium. We performed a cytokine membrane array analysis to detect cytokines in the CM. To characterize the physiological function of MCP‐1 in the CM, we performed an MTT‐assay, a wound‐healing and invasion assay with anti‐MCP‐1 antibody using three prostate cancer cell lines: DU145, LNCaP, and PC‐3. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐2 and MMP‐9 activities were evaluated by gelatin zymography. A qPCR and Western blotting were used to examine the mRNA and protein expression levels of MMP‐2.

RESULTS

The cytokine membrane array of the CM showed a strong signal of MCP‐1compared to the control medium, and we thus focused our attention on MCP‐1 in the CM. The CM up‐regulated the cancer cell proliferation, and the neutralization by anti‐MCP‐1 antibody inhibited the proliferative effect of the prostate cancer cell lines. The CM greatly increased the invasive activity in the prostate cancer cell lines, and anti‐MCP‐1 antibody decreased the invasiveness. Gelatin zymography revealed that the CM markedly enhanced the enzymatic activity of MMP‐2, and anti‐MCP‐1 antibody down‐regulated its effect. MMP‐2 mRNA expression was undetected and the MMP‐2 protein level was unchanged between the control medium and CM in DU145 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

MCP‐1 from adipocytes enhances the growth and invasion activity of prostate cancer cells. The inhibition of MCP‐1 derived from adipocytes might be an effective treatment for prostate cancer. Prostate 75:1009–1019, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Intraepithelial lymphocytes in relation to NIH category IV prostatitis in autopsy prostate
Authors: Dikov Dorian , Bachurska Svitlana , Staikov Dimitri , Sarafian Victoria
Published: April 2015

BACKGROUND

Quantitative analysis of the number, normal and pathologic ratios between lymphocytes and epithelial cells (ECs), and the significance of intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs) in normal prostatic epithelium, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and high grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN) in relation to NIH category IV prostatitis (histologic prostatitis: HP) was studied in autopsy prostate.

METHODS

IELs were analysed in 59 autopsy prostates, which was routinely embedded in paraffin and immunohistochemically stained for CD3. An average of 300–500 ECs were counted per case. The number of IELs was calculated as the mean/100 ECs. Category IV prostatitis was evaluated using NIH consensus grading system in terms of anatomical localization and grade.

RESULTS

In healthy individuals the mean number of IELs/100 ECs was 0.61 ± 0.34% or ≤1 lymphocyte/100 ECs, which is considered as the normal basal level of prostate IELs. In category IV prostatitis, the mean number of IELs/100 ECs was 8.53 ± 3.25% or 5–11 lymphocytes/100 ECs. The number of IELs in both around and inside inflammation areas correlated to the grade and location of HP (P < 0.0001 and P < 0.0003), the presence of acute glandular inflammation (P < 0.0001), the scattered stromal lymphocytes (P = 0.029), and BPH and PIN associated prostatic inflammation (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

The study presents the first attempt to examine and score the basic quantitative values of prostatic IELs in normal prostate and in relation to category IV prostatitis. The detected normal upper limit of CD3+ IELs is 1 lymphocyte/100 ECs in the normal prostate epithelium. This is considered as an organ specific characteristic of the prostate‐associated lymphoid tissue (PALT). Values >5 IELs/100 ECs indicate the presence of category IV prostatitis. The severity of inflammation correlates to the number of IELs. There is an intimate link between the quantity of the IELs, the degree of the severity and the localization of category IV prostatitis. HP is a chronic and dynamic inflammatory process affecting the whole prostate gland. The increased number of IELs suggests the immune or autoimmune character of category IV prostatitis, BPH and inflammatory preneoplastic (PIN) lesions in the prostatic tumor environment. Prostate 75:1074–1084, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The influence of medium conductivity on ECIS measurements with field‐effect transistor arrays
Authors: Hempel Felix , Nguyen Thanh Chien , Law Jessica Ka Yan , Ingebrandt Sven
Published: April 2015

Field‐effect transistors (FETs) offer a well‐known biosensor platform for many years now. In most of the applications, FETs are used as potentiometric sensors. In earlier studies, we used FETs for cell‐substrate impedance sensing and showed that in this way, the well‐known electric cell‐substrate impedance sensing (ECIS) method can be scaled down to a single cell resolution. When using new sensor types for ECIS, new coupling models for data interpretation are also needed. In this study, the influence of the conductivity of the measurement buffer and its effect on the recorded spectra was investigated. Human embryonic kidney cells were cultured on the FET surfaces and their impedance spectra were measured. By fitting the data to an established electrically equivalent circuit model, changes in the relevant cell parameters can be obtained. The derived cell‐related data offer an advanced understanding in cell transistor interface modeling.
Composition dependent self‐regenerative property of perovskite‐type oxides
Authors: Kuc Jagoda , Zhang Yucheng , Erni Rolf , Yoon Songhak , Karvonen Lassi , Weidenkaff Anke , Matam Santhosh Kumar
Published: April 2015

The self‐regenerative property of LaCo1–x –yPdx Zny O3±δ and LaFe1–x –yPdx Zny O3±δ solid solutions with monometallic Pd or bimetallic Pd/Zn substituents for Co or Fe is studied under a redox cycle by high angular annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM‐HAADF) and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). These results reveal that the composition of perovskites determines the self‐regenerative property that occurs largely in LaCo1–x –yPdx Zny O3±δ but is limited greatly in LaFe1–x –yPdx Zny O3±δ. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH &Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Protective effect of casein phosphopeptide‐amorphous calcium phosphate on enamel erosion: Atomic force microscopy studies
Authors: Ceci Matteo , Mirando Maria , Beltrami Riccardo , Chiesa Marco , Poggio Claudio
Published: April 2015

The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro effect of a casein phosphopeptide‐amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP‐ACP) paste (GC Tooth Mousse‐ TM, GC Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) on preventing enamel erosion, by using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). 30 human incisors, were equally assigned to 6 groups: intact enamel, enamel + soft drink, enamel + TM, enamel + TM + soft drink, enamel + soft drink + TM, enamel + soft drink + TM + soft drink. Specimens were observed through atomic force microscopy (AFM). The most common topographical parameters were determined, such as the surface roughness (Rrms). The use of soft drink on intact enamel has roughened the surface of the sample. The application of the CPP‐ACP paste on non‐treated enamel made the surface smoother. A significant decrease in roughness was seen after remineralization with CPP‐ACP paste. Significant differences were recorded when comparing softened enamel with softened enamel remineralized with CPP‐ACP paste. Comparing eroded enamel with demineralized/remineralized specimens, the application of a CPP‐ACP paste leads to a significant reduction in roughness values. AFM images of enamel surface treated with CPP‐ACP resulted in less morphological changes of the tooth substrate when compared with the only eroded enamel surface morphology; thus, indicating that CPP‐ACP paste promoted remineralization. Specimens' surface roughness remained similar regardless that the protective agent is used before or after exposure to coke or between two demineralizing cycles. The results confirmed the effectiveness of the CPP‐ACP paste on preventing enamel erosion produced by soft drinks. SCANNING 37:327–334, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enhanced Field Emission from a Carbon Nanotube Array Coated with a Hexagonal Boron Nitride Thin Film
Authors: Yang Xiaoxia , Li Zhenjun , He Feng , Liu Mingju , Bai Bing , Liu Wei , Qiu Xiaohui , Zhou Hang , Li Chi , Dai Qing
Published: April 2015

A high‐quality field emission electron source made of a highly ordered array of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) coated with a thin film of hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) is fabricated using a simple and scalable method. This method offers the benefit of reproducibility, as well as the simplicity, safety, and low cost inherent in using B2O3 as the boron precursor. Results measured using h‐BN‐coated CNT arrays are compared with uncoated control arrays. The optimal thickness of the h‐BN film is found to be 3 nm. As a result of the incorporation of h‐BN, the turn‐on field is found to decrease from 4.11 to 1.36 V μm−1, which can be explained by the significantly lower emission barrier that is achieved due to the negative electron affinity of h‐BN. Meanwhile, the total emission current is observed to increase from 1.6 to 3.7 mA, due to a mechanism that limits the self‐current of any individual emitting tip. This phenomenon also leads to improved emission stability and uniformity. In addition, the lifetime of the arrays is improved as well. The h‐BN‐coated CNT array‐based field emitters proposed in this work may open new paths for the development of future high‐performance vacuum electronic devices.