bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polymeric nanoparticles: the future of nanomedicine
Authors: Banik Brittany L. , Fattahi Pouria , Brown Justin L.
Published: August 2015

Polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) are one of the most studied organic strategies for nanomedicine. Intense interest lies in the potential of polymeric NPs to revolutionize modern medicine. To determine the ideal nanosystem for more effective and distinctly targeted delivery of therapeutic applications, particle size, morphology, material choice, and processing techniques are all research areas of interest. Utilizations of polymeric NPs include drug delivery techniques such as conjugation and entrapment of drugs, prodrugs, stimuli‐responsive systems, imaging modalities, and theranostics. Cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular diseases are fields impacted by NP technologies that push scientific boundaries to the leading edge of transformative advances for nanomedicine. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2016, 8:271–299. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1364

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies

Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology
Synthesis and Molecular Structures of CuII 15‐Metallacrown‐5 Complexes with Encapsulated CaII, PrIII and NdIII Ions
Authors: Safyanova Inna S. , Golenya Irina A. , Pavlenko Vadim A. , Gumienna‐Kontecka Elzbieta , Pekhnyo Vasily I. , Bon Volodymyr V. , Fritsky Igor O.
Published: August 2015

Three complexes [Ca(ClO4)(H2O)Cu5(o‐picHA‐2H)5(H2O)]ClO4 (1), [Pr(NO3)2(py)Cu5(o‐picHA‐2H)5(py)5]ClO4 (2), and [Nd(NO3)(H2O)(py)Cu5(o‐picHA‐2H)5(py)5](ClO4)2·5py (3) (o‐picHA = 2‐picolinehydroxamic acid) were synthesized in order to retrace structural trends caused by the change of the ionic radius of the central metal ion as well as to assess the effect of the axial ligands on the arrangement of metallacrowns. The complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, ESI‐mass spectrometry, IR spectroscopy, and single‐crystal X‐ray analysis. The heterometallic complexes have 15‐MC‐5 molecular topology with CaII or LnIII ion in the center of the metallamacrocyclic cavity. The Ca–O and Ln–O bond lengths follow the trend of changes of the corresponding metal ionic radii. While the CaII complex cation (without axial ligands) in 1 is almost flat, the LnIII containing cations in 2 and 3 have a “partially opened umbrella“ environment.
1‐(Furan‐2‐ylmethyl)‐1H‐tetrazole and its Copper(II) Complexes
Authors: Andreeva Tatyana N. , Lyakhov Alexander S. , Ivashkevich Ludmila S. , Voitekhovich Sergei V. , Grigoriev Yuri V. , Ivashkevich Oleg A.
Published: August 2015

1‐(Furan‐2‐ylmethyl)‐1H‐tetrazole (fmt), prepared by heterocyclization of furfurylamine with triethyl orthoformate and sodium azide, was found to react with copper(II) perchlorate, nitrate, and bromide giving complexes [Cu(fmt)4(H2O)2](ClO4)2, [Cu(fmt)3(NO3)2(H2O)], and [Cu2(fmt)4Br4], respectively. The obtained crystalline complexes and fmt were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, thermal analyses, and IR spectroscopy. In the complexes, fmt acts as a monodentate ligand coordinated via the tetrazole ring N4 atom. [Cu(fmt)4(H2O)2](ClO4)2 comprises a mononuclear complex cation with an elongated CuN4O2 octahedron. [Cu(fmt)3(NO3)2(H2O)] presents a mononuclear complex, where the copper atom is in a heptacoordinate environment forming a considerably distorted pentagonal bipyramid. [Cu2(fmt)4Br4] presents a centrosymmetric dinuclear bromido‐bridged complex with a square pyramidal environment of copper atoms.
Syntheses, Structures and Luminescent Properties of 2D and 3D Cadmium(II) Coordination Polymers Derived from Two Isomeric Perchlorinated Benzenedicarboxylates
Authors: Dai An‐Qi , Chen Sheng‐Chun , Zhong Jing , Gao Jian , Zhang Zhi‐Hui , He Ming‐Yang , Chen Qun
Published: August 2015

The coordination polymers {[Cd(o‐BDC‐Cl4)(H2O)2]·EtOH}n (1) and {[Cd(p‐BDC‐Cl4)(DMF)]·H2O}n (2) (o‐BDC‐Cl4 = tetrachlorophthalate and p‐BDC‐Cl4 = tetrachloroterephthalate) were synthesized in different solvents using two isomeric tetrachlorinated benzenedicarboxylic acids. Complex 1 based on o‐BDC‐Cl4 features an extremely rare 2D trinodal (3,4,6)‐connected network constructed by the combination of 1D [Cd‐H2O]n chains and 1D [Cd2(o‐BDC‐Cl4)2]n loop‐like motifs. Complex 2 based on p‐BDC‐Cl4 has a 3D framework and shows a uninodal 4‐connected sra topology. Complexes 1 and 2 were characterized by elemental analyses, IR spectroscopy, single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and thermogravimetric (TG) analyses. The photoluminescence of 1 and 2 were investigated in the solid state at room temperature.
A Facile Synthesis of Pure O2PtF6
Authors: Rudel Stefan S. , Kraus Florian
Published: August 2015

A new and facile synthesis of O2PtF6 is reported without the demanding synthesis of PtF6 or the use of high pressure fluorination in the presence of oxygen. The O2PtF6 is obtained in form of single crystals by direct Klemm‐type fluorination of commercially available PtO2·xH2O in a stream of diluted F2 of atmospheric pressure at a temperature of 275 °C. Its identity and purity was evidenced by powder X‐ray diffraction, Raman and infrared spectroscopy. The synthesis allows the preparation of pure dioxygenyl hexafluoridoplatinate(V). The new synthesis of O2PtF6 is deemed more convenient than those that require the extremely reactive PtF6.
Near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) analyses of nutrient composition and condensed tannin concentrations in carolina willow (Salix caroliniana)
Authors: Lavin Shana R. , Sullivan Kathleen E. , Wooley Stuart C. , Stone Koni , Russell Scott , Valdes Eduardo V.
Published: August 2015

Iron overload disorder has been described in a number of zoo‐managed species, and it has been recommended to increase the tannin composition of the diet as a safe way to minimize iron absorption in these iron‐sensitive species. The goal of this study was to examine the potential of near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) as a rapid and simple screening tool to assess willow (Salix caroliniana) nutrient composition (crude protein: CP; acid detergent fiber: ADF; neutral detergent fiber: NDF; lignin, gross energy: GE) and condensed tannin (CT) concentrations. Calibration equations were developed by regression of the lab values from 2 years using partial least squares on n = 144 NIRS spectra to predict n = 20 independent validation samples. Using the full 2‐year dataset, good prediction statistics were obtained for CP, ADF, NDF, and GE in plant leaves and stems (r2 > 0.75). NIRS did not predict lignin concentrations reliably (leaves r2 = 0.52, stems r2 = 0.33); however, CTs were predicted moderately well (leaves r2 = 0.72, stems r2 = 0.67). These data indicate that NIRS can be used to quantify several key nutrients in willow leaves and stems including concentrations of plant secondary compounds which, depending on the bioactivity of the compound, may be targeted to feed iron‐sensitive browsing animals. Zoo Biol. 34:576–582, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Variation on a Theme: Alternative to Plastic Bag in ALPPS Procedures: Feasibility and Clinical Safety of COVA+™ Membrane in ALPPS Procedures
Authors: Brustia Raffaele , Scatton Olivier , Soubrane Olivier
Published: August 2015

Background

Associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy (ALPPS) got wide success among hepatic surgeons as an efficient way to shorten to 7 days from the 4 weeks interval of classic 2‐staged hepatectomy. The main disadvantage of ALPPS is the onset of inflammatory adhesions, particularly on the hepatic pedicle region, previously dissected. The aim of the study is the evaluation of a resorbable collagen membrane (CM) indicated in the prevention of postoperative adhesions as an alternative to the use of a plastic bag (PB) during ALPPS procedure.

Methods

All patients undergoing ALPPS procedure in our department were prospectively included in a database. At the end of the first surgery, at least one resorbable CM (COVA+™, Biom’Up, France) was placed instead of a PB. Intraoperative adhesions during the second step and clinical short‐term safety were assessed.

Results

Ten patients with a mean age of 57.5 years underwent a 2‐staged hepatectomy through ALPPS approach. At the second stage, 90 % of the patients experienced either grade‐0 (no adhesion) or grade‐I adhesions (mild adhesions easily divided). None of the reported complications were related to the use of the CM.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first clinical study evaluating the use of an anti‐adhesion resorbable CM as a safe and efficient alternative to PB in ALPPS procedures.
Surgical Treatment of Genital Manifestations of Lymphatic Filariasis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lim Kah Heng Alexander , Speare Rick , Thomas Gail , Graves Patricia
Published: August 2015

Genital manifestations of lymphatic filariasis (genital LF) are a significant cause of disfigurement and disability in the developing world. Surgery is the standard treatment; however, definitive publications are lacking and best practice remains unclear. An exhaustive search strategy using keyword and subject headings was applied to Medline, EMBASE, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Scopus. Additionally citation lists, Google and Google Scholar, archives of relevant journals and websites were searched systematically. Studies with data on one or more human patient(s) who underwent surgery for genital LF were included. Articles were screened and data extracted by the first author with data verification by the second author. Fifty‐seven studies were included: 18 series of ablative surgery, four series of non‐ablative surgery and 35 case reports. Poor study quality, heterogeneous case definitions, lack of severity grading and limited follow‐up precluded meta‐analysis. Two series of simple hydrocelectomies performed in resource‐limited settings reported early complication rates of 3.0–3.5 % using eversion and 5–7 % using excision, with recurrence of 7 % and 3–5 %, respectively. Complications were minimal for single‐surgeon series and greater (12–18 %) when scrotal reconstruction was performed. There is little useful evidence for lymphatic bypass procedures in genital LF. Under‐recognition of atypical manifestation of genital LF leads to potentially unnecessary surgeries. Surgery for genital LF is safe in resource‐limited settings; however, more well‐designed studies with better follow‐up are needed. Research priorities include validation of case definitions and severity grading systems, and solutions to improve post‐operative follow‐up in resource‐limited settings.
Construction of a highly efficient Bacillus subtilis 168 whole-cell biocatalyst and its application in the production of l-ornithine
Authors: Wang Meizhou , Xu Meijuan , Rao Zhiming , Yang Taowei , Zhang Xian
Published: August 2015

l-Ornithine, a non-protein amino acid, is usually extracted from hydrolyzed protein as well as produced by microbial fermentation. Here, we focus on a highly efficient whole-cell biocatalyst for the production of l-ornithine. The gene argI, encoding arginase, which catalyzes the hydrolysis of l-arginine to l-ornithine and urea, was cloned from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens B10-127 and expressed in GRAS strain Bacillus subtilis 168. The recombinant strain exhibited an arginase activity of 21.9 U/mg, which is 26.7 times that of wild B. subtilis 168. The optimal pH and temperature of the purified recombinant arginase were 10.0 and 40 °C, respectively. In addition, the recombinant arginase exhibited a strong Mn2+ preference. When using whole-cell biocatalyst-based bioconversion, a hyper l-ornithine production of 356.9 g/L was achieved with a fed-batch strategy in a 5-L reactor within 12 h. This whole-cell bioconversion study demonstrates an environmentally friendly strategy for l-ornithine production in industry.
Modified Lapidus Procedure with Joint Compression, Meticulous Surface Preparation, and Shear-Strain-Relieved Bone Graft Yields Low Nonunion Rate
Authors: Mani Sriniwasan B. , Lloyd Eric W. , MacMahon Aoife , Roberts Matthew M. , Levine David S. , Ellis Scott J.
Published: August 2015

Background

The modified Lapidus procedure is widely used to correct hallux valgus but has been reported with high nonunion rates. In this study, we retrospectively reviewed the nonunion rate of the modified Lapidus procedure performed with rigid cross screw fixation, meticulous joint preparation, and shear-strain-relieved calcaneal bone graft.

Questions/Purposes

Does the performance of the Lapidus procedure with rigid cross screw fixation, complete joint preparation, and shear-strain-relieved calcaneal bone graft achieve higher union rates than currently reported? If nonunion does occur, what is the clinical course?

Methods

We reviewed both radiographic and clinical results of the modified Lapidus procedure with the above technique in 171 patients (182 feet). Evaluation included age, gender, tobacco use, diabetic status, and radiographic analysis at least 3 months postoperatively.

Results

The modified Lapidus procedure described above resulted in a union rate of 97.3% (177 of 182 feet). Three of the five feet with radiographic nonunions were clinically symptomatic.

Conclusions

The union rate of the modified Lapidus procedure is higher than previously reported when performed with rigid cross screw fixation, meticulous joint preparation, and shear-strain-relieved bone graft. Nonunion of the first tarsometatarsal joint should be considered an infrequent occurrence.
Bacterial cell motility ofBurkholderia gut symbiont is required to colonize the insect gut
Authors: Lee Jun Beom , Byeon Jin Hee , Jang Ho Am , Kim Jiyeun Kate , Yoo Jin Wook , Kikuchi Yoshitomo , Lee Bok Luel
Published: August 2015

We generated aBurkholderia mutant, which is deficient of anN‐acetylmuramyl‐l‐alanine amidase, AmiC, involved in peptidoglycan degradation. When non‐motile ΔamiC mutantBurkholderia cells harboring chain form were orally administered toRiptortus insects, ΔamiC mutant cells were unable to establish symbiotic association. But, ΔamiC mutant complemented withamiC gene restored in vivo symbiotic association. ΔamiC mutant cultured in minimal medium restored their motility with single‐celled morphology. When ΔamiC mutant cells harboring single‐celled morphology were administered to the host insect, this mutant established normal symbiotic association, suggesting that bacterial motility is essential for the successful symbiosis between host insect andBurkholderia symbiont.
Pediatric Dance Injuries: A Cross‐Sectional Epidemiological Study
Authors: Yin Amy X. , Sugimoto Dai , Martin Daniel J. , Stracciolini Andrea
Published: August 2015

Objective

The purpose of this study was to analyze characteristics of dance injuries evaluated by sports medicine physicians.

Design

A cross‐sectional epidemiological study of a 5% random probability sample of patients presenting for sports medicine evaluation between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2009.

Setting

Sports medicine clinic of a tertiary‐level pediatric medical center.

Patients

A total of 181 pediatric dancers (171 female and 10 male; 14.8 ± 2.0 years of age) with 222 injuries.

Main Outcome Measures

Injury diagnoses, location, type, and treatment.

Results

Forty‐six injury diagnoses were recorded in this random sample of pediatric dancers, with the most common being tendonitis/tendinopathy, patellofemoral pain syndrome, apophysitis, ankle impingement syndrome, and hip labral tear. Most of the injuries occurred in the lower extremities, with knee and ankle injuries being the most common. Injury classification by type revealed that joints were the body structure most likely to be injured, followed by soft tissues, skeletal elements, and growth plates. The most frequent joint injury was patellofemoral pain syndrome. The most frequent soft tissue injury was tendonitis/tendinopathy. The most common skeletal injury was a pars stress reaction/spondylolysis. The most common physeal injury was apophysitis. Dancers were treated mainly with physical therapy, surgery, or physical therapy, in addition to orthotics.

Conclusion

Pediatric dancers experienced significant, and occasionally rare, injuries that may have long‐term health consequences. Although injuries occurred mostly in the lower extremities and involved mainly joints, the most common specific diagnosis was tendonitis/tendinopathy. There is still much to learn about the management of dancers, and there is a need for further research into injury prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
ENT entry requirements for UK armed forces
Authors: Jones G H , Murphy R , Agrawal S , Isles M G
Published: August 2015

Background:

Minimum health requirements exist for entry into the UK armed forces. Both pre-existing and iatrogenic ENT conditions may impact on an individual's medical fitness and their ability to enter the forces.

Methods:

The relevant literature was examined and military otolaryngology advisors were interviewed in order to define the ENT-specific conditions that restrict an individual joining the armed forces.

Results:

The ENT diseases and disabilities that inhibit an individual's ability to join the forces are described. Treatments that may facilitate or restrict recruitment are also discussed.

Conclusion:

Members of the armed forces operate in arduous environments and are required to pass a screening medical assessment before joining. Personnel may be isolated away from specialist care and therefore cannot be dependent on specialist devices or medicines. This paper aims to arm ENT specialists with occupational knowledge to enable them to correctly counsel patients and offer appropriate treatment.
Tailed Palva flap in the subperiosteal pocket technique for cochlear implantation
Authors: Orhan K S , Polat B , Enver N , Güldiken Y
Published: August 2015

Background:

In recent years, the subperiosteal pocket technique has become popular for minimal access cochlear implantation. Many incision techniques have been described in cochlear implantation.

Objective:

This study aimed to demonstrate the safety and reliability of a new periosteal incision, called tailed Palva incision, in cochlear implantation.

Methods:

A total of 280 patients who underwent cochlear implantation with the subperiosteal pocket technique between June 2008 and January 2013 were included in the study.

Results:

The patients were followed up for between 11 and 74 months (mean ± standard deviation = 34 ± 19 months). No intracranial complications were seen during or after the operations. Additionally, there was no migration of the receiver-stimulator. Revision surgery was performed in eight patients (3 per cent), one of whom (0.4 per cent) had local flap failure and infection.

Conclusion:

This study shows that the tailed Palva incision facilitates easy insertion of the implant and, by creating a one-way obscured pocket, this technique also enhances stabilisation of the receiver-stimulator, thereby avoiding anterior migration.
Comparison of quality of life outcomes following different mastoid surgery techniques
Authors: Joseph J , Miles A , Ifeacho S , Patel N , Shaida A , Gatland D , Watters G , Kiverniti E
Published: August 2015

Background:

Mastoid surgery carried out to treat chronic otitis media can lead to improvement in objective and subjective measures post-operatively. This study investigated the subjective change in quality of life using the Glasgow Benefit Inventory relative to the type of mastoid surgery undertaken.

Method:

A retrospective multicentre postal survey of 157 patients who underwent mastoid surgery from 2008 to 2012 was conducted.

Results:

Eighty-three questionnaire responses were received from patients who underwent surgery at one of three different hospitals (a response rate of 53 per cent). Fifty-seven per cent of patients had a Glasgow Benefit Inventory score of 0, indicating no change in quality of life post-operatively. Thirty-five per cent scored over 50, indicating significant improvement. The only significant difference found was that women fared worse after surgery than men.

Conclusion:

The choice of mastoid surgery technique should be determined by clinical need and surgeon preference. There is no improvement in quality of life for most patients following mastoid surgery.
Intra-operative skull X-ray for misdirection of the cochlear implant array into the vestibular labyrinth
Authors: Hassan A M , Patel R , Redleaf M
Published: August 2015

Objectives:

This paper reports five cases of aberrant cochlear implant electrode array insertion into the vestibular labyrinth. A review of the literature was conducted in order to clarify reasonable preventive and detection strategies and endorse the routine use of intra-operative plain skull X-ray.

Methods:

The study entailed a clinical case series and literature review. The setting was a tertiary academic referral centre. The following data were evaluated: pre-operative temporal bone computed tomography, operative reports, intra-operative imaging, neural response telemetry/imaging and post-operative imaging.

Results:

There were no consistent pre-operative risk factors found on computed tomography scans and no reliable intra-operative signs of electrode array misdirection. All misdirections in our case series, and those in the literature, were easily detectable on intra-operative plain film X-ray.

Conclusion:

These reported cases demonstrate implant misdirection without the surgeon's awareness. Aberrant insertion cannot be anticipated, and neural response telemetry/imaging is not a reliable indicator of misdirection. Routine intra-operative anteroposterior plain X-ray of the head is a reliable indicator of misdirection, and is fast and relatively inexpensive.
Tongue-tie division to treat breastfeeding difficulties: our experience
Authors: Sharma S D , Jayaraj S
Published: August 2015

Objectives:

To assess the benefits of frenotomy on breastfeeding in infants, and determine the influence of age.

Methods:

A telephone questionnaire of all patients diagnosed with tongue-tie over 12 months was conducted pre-intervention and 1-month post-intervention. The Infant Breastfeeding Assessment Tool was used to assess breastfeeding.

Results:

Of 54 infants diagnosed with tongue-tie, 78 per cent of mothers participated in the survey. Eighty-six per cent of patients underwent frenotomy, with no surgical complications. In the frenotomy group, 81 per cent of mothers reported improvement in breastfeeding, versus 17 per cent in the non-surgical group (p = 0.0074). In the frenotomy group, the mean (±standard deviation) Infant Breastfeeding Assessment Tool score was 3.33 ± 1.51 pre-intervention, versus 9.19 ± 2.44 post-intervention (p = 0.0001). In the non-surgical intervention group, the mean score (±standard deviation) was 4.17 ± 0.75 pre-intervention, versus 6.00 ± 1.73 post-intervention (p = 0.16). For infants who underwent frenotomy, there was a reported improvement in 94 per cent of those aged less than 30 days, versus 68 per cent in infants aged over 30 days (p = 0.092).

Conclusion:

Frenotomy is a safe, short procedure that improves breastfeeding outcomes, and is best performed at an early age.
Mid-distance re-sighting of a common bottlenose dolphin in the northern Adriatic Sea: insight into regional movement patterns
Authors: Genov Tilen , Angelini Valeria , Hace Ana , Palmisano Giuseppe , Petelin Boris , Malačič Vlado , Pari Sauro , Mazzariol Sandro
Published: August 2015

Understanding animal movement patterns is not only important for providing insight into their biology, but is also relevant to conservation planning. However, in aquatic and wide-ranging species such as cetaceans, this is often difficult. The common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) is the most common cetacean in the northern and central Adriatic Sea and has been the focus of long-term studies in some areas. All of the studied local populations show a relatively high degree of site fidelity, but their movements, ranging patterns or connectivity are not well understood. On 24 and 26 April 2014 a single adult bottlenose dolphin was observed and photographed alive off the Slovenian coast. The same individual was found dead on the shores of Goro, Italy, on 5 May 2014, about 130 km from the two sighting locations. The well-marked dorsal fin made the identification straightforward. The dolphin was found freshly dead, suggesting it had died very recently prior to being found. This indicates that the reported movement was a real one, rather than an artefact of currents. Although single cases cannot provide the basis for making population-level inferences, our observation shows that northern Adriatic bottlenose dolphins can make substantial movements in short periods of time and suggests that such movements could be more common than currently documented. Comparisons among photo-ID catalogues and stranding events can be highly informative, as they can provide useful information with implications for the cross-border conservation of mobile marine predators.
Age and growth estimates of the Kwangtung skate Dipturus kwangtungensis in the waters of northern Taiwan
Authors: Joung Shoou-Jeng , Chen Chien-Chi , Liu Kwang-Ming , Hsieh Tzu-Chi
Published: August 2015

The age and growth of Kwangtung skate, Dipturus kwangtungensis, in the waters off northern Taiwan were estimated from 422 specimens collected between July 2006 and July 2008 at the Tashi fishing market in north-eastern Taiwan. The sexes-combined relationship between total length (TL) and centrum diameter (D) was estimated as follows: TL = 14.11D0.888 (N = 411, r2 = 0.94, P < 0.001). Growth band pairs (comprised of translucent and opaque bands) in vertebrae were determined to form once annually, based on the centrum edge analysis. Up to 14 band pairs were found for both sexes. The von Bertalanffy growth function (VBGF), two-parameter VBGF, the Robertson function, and the Gompertz function were used to fit the observed length-at-age data. The Akaike information criterion corrected indicated that the Gompertz function best fit the observed length at age data. Sex-specific growth functions were not significantly different; the sexes-combined growth parameters were estimated as follows: asymptotic length (L∞) = 96.7 cm TL, growth coefficient (kG) = 0.144 year−1 and constant (t0) = 5.45 year (N = 364, P < 0.01).
The Song of Songs in the Teachings of Jesus and the Development of the Exposition on the Song
Authors: Tomson Peter J.
Published: August 2015

Picking up on the revived interest in the Song of Songs in biblical scholarship, the article focuses on the significance of the Song in the tradition of Jesus’ teachings. After a survey of rabbinic midrash on the Song, five examples show that Jesus as remembered in the gospel tradition expresses an unusual interest in the Song with a discreet mystical emphasis. The nuptial Christology that subsequently surfaces in Revelation and in Hippolytus and Origen suggests a continuous development as from the Jesus tradition. This continuity may explain the remarkable parallels between the interest of the Church Fathers in the Song and that of the Rabbis.
Neural reward processing in individuals remitted from major depression
Authors: Ubl B. , Kuehner C. , Kirsch P. , Ruttorf M. , Flor H. , Diener C.
Published: August 2015

Background.

Dysfunctional behavioural and neural processing of reward has been found in currently depressed individuals. However, little is known about altered reward processing in remitted depressed individuals.

Method.

A total of 23 medication-free individuals with remitted major depressive disorder (rMDD) and 23 matched healthy controls (HCs) performed a reward task during functional magnetic resonance imaging. We also investigated reward dependence, novelty seeking and harm avoidance using the Tridimensional Personality Questionnaire and their association with neural responses of reward processing.

Results.

Compared to HCs, individuals with rMDD exhibited enhanced responses to reward-predicting cues in the hippocampus, amygdala and superior frontal gyrus. When reward was delivered, rMDD subjects did not significantly differ from HCs. In both groups neural activity during reward anticipation was negatively correlated with harm avoidance.

Conclusions.

Our results show that rMDD is characterized by hyperactivation in fronto-limbic regions during reward anticipation. Alterations in neural activation during reward processing might reflect an increased effort in remitted depressed individuals to allocate neural activity for executive and evaluative processes during anticipatory reward processing.
Symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder but not panic disorder at age 15 years increase the risk of depression at 18 years in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) cohort study
Authors: Davies S. J. C. , Pearson R. M. , Stapinski L. , Bould H. , Christmas D. M. , Button K. S. , Skapinakis P. , Lewis G. , Evans J.
Published: August 2015

Background.

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder (PD) differ in their biology and co-morbidities. We hypothesized that GAD but not PD symptoms at the age of 15 years are associated with depression diagnosis at 18 years.

Method.

Using longitudinal data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) birth cohort we examined relationships of GAD and PD symptoms (measured by the Development and Well-Being Assessment) at 15 years with depression at 18 years (by the Clinical Interview Schedule – Revised) using logistic regression. We excluded adolescents already depressed at 15 years and adjusted for social class, maternal education, birth order, gender, alcohol intake and smoking. We repeated these analyses following multiple imputation for missing data.

Results.

In the sample with complete data (n= 2835), high and moderate GAD symptoms in adolescents not depressed at 15 years were associated with increased risk of depression at 18 years both in unadjusted analyses and adjusting for PD symptoms at 15 years and the above potential confounders. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) for depression at 18 years in adolescents with high relative to low GAD scores was 5.2 [95% confidence interval (CI) 3.0–9.1, overallp< 0.0001]. There were no associations between PD symptoms and depression at 18 years in any model (high relative to low PD scores, adjusted OR = 1.3, 95% CI 0.3–4.8, overallp= 0.737). Missing data imputation strengthened the relationship of GAD symptoms with depression (high relative to low GAD scores, OR = 6.2, 95% CI 3.9–9.9) but those for PD became weaker.

Conclusions.

Symptoms of GAD but not PD at 15 years are associated with depression at 18 years. Clinicians should be aware that adolescents with GAD symptoms may develop depression.
Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching in material and life sciences: putting theory into practice
Authors: Lorén Niklas , Hagman Joel , Jonasson Jenny K. , Deschout Hendrik , Bernin Diana , Cella-Zanacchi Francesca , Diaspro Alberto , McNally James G. , Ameloot Marcel , Smisdom Nick , Nydén Magnus , Hermansson Anne-Marie , Rudemo Mats , Braeckmans Kevin
Published: August 2015

Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) is a versatile tool for determining diffusion and interaction/binding properties in biological and material sciences. An understanding of the mechanisms controlling the diffusion requires a deep understanding of structure–interaction–diffusion relationships. In cell biology, for instance, this applies to the movement of proteins and lipids in the plasma membrane, cytoplasm and nucleus. In industrial applications related to pharmaceutics, foods, textiles, hygiene products and cosmetics, the diffusion of solutes and solvent molecules contributes strongly to the properties and functionality of the final product. All these systems are heterogeneous, and accurate quantification of the mass transport processes at the local level is therefore essential to the understanding of the properties of soft (bio)materials. FRAP is a commonly used fluorescence microscopy-based technique to determine local molecular transport at the micrometer scale. A brief high-intensity laser pulse is locally applied to the sample, causing substantial photobleaching of the fluorescent molecules within the illuminated area. This causes a local concentration gradient of fluorescent molecules, leading to diffusional influx of intact fluorophores from the local surroundings into the bleached area. Quantitative information on the molecular transport can be extracted from the time evolution of the fluorescence recovery in the bleached area using a suitable model. A multitude of FRAP models has been developed over the years, each based on specific assumptions. This makes it challenging for the non-specialist to decide which model is best suited for a particular application. Furthermore, there are many subtleties in performing accurate FRAP experiments. For these reasons, this review aims to provide an extensive tutorial covering the essential theoretical and practical aspects so as to enable accurate quantitative FRAP experiments for molecular transport measurements in soft (bio)materials.
City Personifications and Consular Diptychs
Authors: Cameron Alan
Published: August 2015

This paper takes as its point of departure two much discussed fifth-century artifacts, an uninscribed and undated consular diptych in Halberstadt (Fig. 9), and the inscribed and (on the face of it) exactly dated consular missorium of Ardabur Aspar in Florence (Fig. 15), both hitherto presumed issued by western consuls and manufactured in western workshops. After calling into question the established criteria for distinguishing western from eastern diptychs, I propose a new set of criteria and a new date and interpretation of both objects, mainly in the light of a more comprehensive examination of the iconography of city personifications, in literature as well as art.
Relative susceptibility of 20 elite maize varieties to infestation and damage by the maize weevil, Sitophilus zeamais (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Nwosu L.C. , Adedire C.O. , Ogunwolu E.O. , Ashamo M.O.
Published: August 2015

Susceptibility studies keep farmers informed, and enhance breeding programmes' testing against infestation and damage by stored product pests. Therefore, the susceptibility of 20 elite maize varieties toSitophilus zeamaisinfestation was investigated in the laboratory at 32.7 °C ambient temperature and 70.4% relative humidity. The varieties tested were obtained from the Maize Breeding Units of International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), and Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), both in Ibadan, Nigeria. Susceptibility was assessed, using as indices, weevil mortality and survival rates, percentage grain damage, percentage grain weight loss, weight of grain powder, weevil development time, and number of emerged adults. The susceptibility index was determined post-infestation at 56 days using Dobie's formula and at 90 days from a new formula derived from Dobie's formula. Susceptible varieties produced significantly (P≤ 0.05) high numbers of F1and F2progeny, and had significantly (P≤ 0.05) low weevil mortality and early first weevil emergence. Grain damage and loss increased with storage duration. There was no visible damage to varieties 2000SYNEE-WSTR and TZBRELD3C5 at 56 days post-infestation. At 90 days, the two varieties had the lowest percentage grain damage, percentage weight loss, and weight of grain powder. The index of susceptibility at F2progeny showed that the resistant varieties decreased in number from 17 (85%) to 13 (65%) and the moderately resistant varieties increased from 2 (10%) to 6 (30%). This suggests the effect of prolonged storage duration on the inherent ability of varieties to resist weevil attack. Variety PVASYN3F2 was susceptible. The factors conferring high resistance to 2000SYNEE-WSTR and TZBRELD3C5 should be investigated. They should be promoted to controlS. zeamaisinfestation and damage in stored maize.
Markers of preclinical atherosclerosis and their clinical relevance
Authors: Poredoš Pavel , Kaja Ježovnik Mateja
Published: August 2015

Abstract. The estimation of risk for atherosclerotic and cardiovascular events based only on the presence of classical risk factors is often insufficient. Therefore, efforts have been made to find markers that indicate the presence of preclinical disease in individual subjects: blood markers of atherosclerosis and preclinical deterioration of the arterial wall. Elevated levels of several inflammatory mediators have been found in subjects with atherosclerosis. Increased basal levels of cytokines, the cell adhesion molecules, selectins and acute-phase reactants such as high sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), fibrinogen, and serum amyloid A are related to an increased risk of cardiovascular events. For clinical purposes, the most promising inflammatory biomarker appears to be hsCRP. In the last decade, markers of plaque stability and unstable coronary artery disease have been sought. Further, markers of endothelial dysfunction, like circulating molecules as well as indicators of functional deterioration of the arterial wall were identified. It was shown that endothelial dysfunction is closely related to different risk factors of atherosclerosis, and to their intensity and duration. Intima-media thickness measurement has emerged as one of the methods of choice for determining the anatomic extent of preclinical atherosclerosis and for assessing cardiovascular risk.Determination of markers of preclinical atherosclerosis improve individual risk determination and could influence the decision of a clinician to intervene with medication and to use more aggressive treatment of risk factors in high risk subjects and in patients with atherosclerotic disease.
Restenosis after endovascular revascularization in peripheral artery disease
Authors: Malyar Nasser M. , Reinecke Holger , Freisinger Eva
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Endovascular revascularization (EVR) plays a leading role in the therapy of peripheral artery disease. The acute success rates of EVR in all anatomic territories and of all TASC lesions are excellent (> 95%). However, the occurrence of restenoses after EVR such as percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and particularly after stenting, poses a substantial limitation to the success of the procedure. Influenced by patient’s comorbidities, the severity of arteriosclerotic disease, lesion length and morphology as well as the techniques and devices used for EVR, the long-term outcome of EVR deteriorates markedly from the aortoiliac to the infrapopliteal segments of the lower limbs. The development of drug-coated balloons and drug-eluting stents reduced the occurrence of restenosis leading to considerably improved primary patency rates in the femoropopliteal segments. This review aims to provide an overview about the underlying mechanisms and current relevance of the various options in the field of EVR with regard to the rate of restenosis.
Favorable effect of aerobic exercise on arterial pressure and aortic pulse wave velocity during stress testing
Authors: Milatz Florian , Ketelhut Sascha , Ketelhut Reinhard G.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Background: Increased central pulse wave velocity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The favorable influence of exercise on arterial stiffness (AS) and blood pressure (BP) has been reported exclusively at rest. The present study investigated the influence of a single bout of acute cycling on AS and BP during recovery and, moreover, during cold pressor stress testing. Probands and methods: 32 healthy men (33.7 ± 8 years, BMI 24 ± 2.5 kg/m²) performed a 60 minute endurance exercise on a bicycle ergometer (45 % VO2max). Before and after exercise aortic pulse wave velocity (aPWV) as well as central and peripheral BP were measured non-invasively at rest and at the end of a 2 minute cold pressor test (CPT). Results: Even after 60 minutes of recovery aPWV (- 0.22 ± 0.3 m / sec) was significantly reduced (p < 0.01). Exercise decreased peripheral (- 8 ± 7 mmHg) and central (- 7 ± 8 mmHg) systolic BP as well as peripheral (- 3 ± 5 mmHg) and central (- 4 ± 7 mmHg) diastolic BP (p < 0.01). In comparison to measurements during CPT pre-exercise, there was a significant reduction in aPWV (- 0.19 ± 0.3 m / sec), peripheral (- 6 ± 10 mmHg) and central (- 5 ± 8 mmHg) systolic BP as well as peripheral (- 3 ± 6 mmHg) and central (- 3 ± 6 mmHg) diastolic BP during CPT after exercise (p < 0.01). Conclusions: The present study suggests that acute endurance exercise leads not only to decreased BP but even more reduces aPWV as a measure of AS even after 60 minutes of recovery. In particular, the investigation provides evidence that acute moderate-intensity exercise has a favorable effect on BP and aPWV during stress testing.
Local endothelial dysfunction does not affect global endothelial function
Authors: Reimann Manja , Weiss Norbert , Vilser Walthard , Ziemssen Tjalf
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate two alternative non-invasive techniques for assessment of endothelial function in adults with special focus on their ability to monitor acute changes. Patients and methods: Twenty-five clinically healthy men (mean age 24 ± 2 years) underwent endothelial function measurements twice in fasting state and twice after experimental induction of transient endothelial dysfunction by oral application of 0.1g/kg L-methionine and by ingestion of 500 ml whipped cream (30 % fat), respectively. Microvascular vasodilator responses to flickering-light by retinal vessel analysis and vascular responses to inhaled salbutamol by pulse wave analysis were assessed at each occasion. Ultrasound based flow-mediated dilation (FMD) was used as reference method. Results: Transient endothelial dysfunction in response to acute hyperlipidaemia and hyperhomocysteinaemia was verified by blunted brachial responses to hyperaemia. Retinal vessel analysis demonstrated significantly impaired flicker-responses of retinal vessels to both challenges depending on the vessel type. Pulse wave analysis did not show any significant changes in salbutamol responses. Reproducibility of retinal vessel analysis was comparable to FMD and slightly better than pulse wave analysis. Conclusions: Acute changes in endothelial function can be monitored by retinal vessel analysis with comparable reproducibility as FMD. Salbutamol based pulse wave analysis is currently unsuited to detect endothelial dysfunction in serial measurements.
Localized lower extremity ischemic preconditioning prevents against local thrombus formation
Authors: Sun Ye , Mao Ping , Lu Jingwei , Li Lan , Lu Wanli , Jiang Qing , Teng Huajian
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Background: Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) has many beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. However, whether localized lower extremity IPC could be protective against the thrombogenic activity generated by lower extremity ischemia is unclear. Material and methods: 41 male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to either a IPC group or a sham group. The lower extremity blood inflow was previously treated with 4 cycles of 5 min ischemia followed by 5 min of reperfusion by clamping the abdominal aortic just before ligature of the left iliac vein(LIV) in the IPC group. Rats in the sham group had a 40-minute blank before left iliac vein ligation. The rats were euthanized at day 2 after ligation and the thrombosed LIV was carefully dissected out, while thrombi harvested from the LIV were measured with weight (g), length (mm) and weight/length (mg/mm). Influence of IPC on coagulation function was also tested. Results: 21 and 20 rats were randomly assigned to einter the IPC group or the control group. Left iliac vein thrombosis was successfully generated in all 41 rats. IPC significantly protects the rats from experimental lower extremity thrombosis. Compared to control group, generated thrombus in rats in the IPC group showed significantly lower weight (2.73 ± 0.16 mg vs 1.82 ± 0.13 mg, P < 0.001), length (2.99 ± 0.17 mm vs 2.44 ± 0.08 mm, P < 0.009) and density (0.95 ± 0.05 mg/mm vs 0.75 ± 0.05 mg/mm, P = 0.01). Influence on coagulation function by IPC itself was not significant (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that localized lower extremity IPC could reduce DVT formation in rats in an in vivo experimental thrombosis model.
Comparison of periprocedural and long term outcomes of proximal versus distal cerebral protection method during carotid artery stenting
Authors: Bastug Gul Zeynep , Akkaya Emre , Vuruskan Ertan , Akgul Ozgur , Pusuroglu Hamdi , Surgit Ozgur , Ozbay Ozyilmaz Sinem , Rodi Tosu Aydin , Altug Cakmak Huseyin , Gode Safa , Gul Mehmet
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Background: The aim of this study was to assess the periprocedural and one-year outcomes of two different cerebral protection systems used during carotid artery stenting (CAS). Patients and methods: We enrolled 90 consecutive patients with carotid artery stenosis who underwent CAS with a proximal flow blockage protection system (mean age 69.7 ± 8) or distal protection with a filter (mean age 70.8 ± 7). Results: CAS was performed successively on 89 patients (99 %). Adverse events were defined as major stroke, minor stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), myocardial infarction, and death. Two strokes, one TIA, one death, and one myocardial infarction were observed in-hospital. There were no significant differences in safety or benefits between the proximal flow blockage embolic protection system (n = 45) and the distal filter protection system (n = 45) in terms of clinically apparent cerebral embolism, TIA, death, or myocardial infarction during the periprocedural stage or during the one-year follow-up period. Conclusions: Although it has been shown that the proximal flow blockage cerebral protection system decreases the risk of silent cerebral embolism, it has no advantage over the distal filter protection system in terms of adverse cerebrovascular or cardiac events during the periprocedural stage or during the long-term follow-up period.
Laparoscopic treatment of celiac artery compression syndrome in children and adolescents
Authors: Klimas Annegret , Lemmer Andreas , Bergert Hendrik , Brodhun Michael , Scholbach Thomas , Großer Kay
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Background: The celiac artery compression syndrome (CACS) is a rarely diagnosed disorder, which is characterized by chronic abdominal pain and vegetative symptoms. The role of surgical treatment in celiac artery decompression has been discussed controversially by numerous authors. After first casuistic descriptions of a laparoscopic treatment in adults we established this novel minimally invasive procedure for treatment in children and adolescents. Patients and methods: Between 2005 and 2014 we operated 58 patients (47 female, 11 male) from 7 to 25 years who had been diagnosed with celiac artery compression. The patients presented with severe chronic abdominal pain, vegetative symptoms and a reduced quality of life. Doppler sonography showed an increased blood flow velocity of the celiac artery with maximum of 190 - 450 cm/s (mean 259 cm/s).MR angiography demonstrated a characteristic hook-shaped appearance of the celiac artery with severe localized compression. Results: All patients underwent laparoscopic decompression of the celiac artery. We observed complications in 3 patients (5,2 %). Postoperatively all patients (100 %) were immediately free of abdominal pain. Doppler sonography showed a marked reduction in celiac blood flow velocity to 70 - 190 cm/s postoperatively (mean 178 cm/s). A return of vessel diameters to normal dimensions was documented by postoperative MR angiography. During a median follow up of 62 months we observed a recurrence of the celiac artery compression in 4 patients (6,9 %). Conclusions: Laparoscopic treatment of celiac artery compression syndrome offers a novel, safe, reliable and, compared to open surgery, less invasive approach. The surgical treatment is indicated in patients with characteristic symptoms and typical findings at Doppler sonography and MRA after exclusion of other abdominal pathologies. The work-up of chronic abdominal pain in children and adolescents should include a color Doppler sonography to look for celiac artery compression.