bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rabbit model of tracheal stenosis using cylindrical diffuser
Authors: Lee Hyoung Shin , Kim Sung Won , Oak Chulho , Kang Hyun Wook , Oh Junghwan , Jung Min Jung , Kim Sung Bin , Won Jun Hee , Lee Kang Dae
Published: November 2016

Background and Objective

Variable methods of animal model have been introduced to develop tracheal stenosis. However, none of the prior models allow for predictable determination of the grade of stenosis. This study sought to establish an animal model of tracheal stenosis by using a cylindrical diffuser and to evaluate the feasibility of a reproducible model.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

A cylindrical diffuser was developed to have a 5 mm active segment to emit laser light circumferentially. Twenty one New Zealand white rabbits were enrolled in this study. The cylindrical diffuser was inserted transorally under bronchoscopic view and the diffused light was delivered to tracheal mucosa 2 cm below the level of vocal cord. Input power of irradiation was 10 W, 5 seconds in group A (n = 7), 10 W, 7 seconds in group B (n = 7), and 8 W, 5 seconds in group C (n = 7). The degree of tracheal stenosis was observed weekly and the rabbits were euthanized 4 weeks after the laser irradiation.

Results

The degree of stenosis in group B (90–98%) was significantly larger than that of group A (75–92%) (P = 0.004), while degree in group C (24–35%) was significantly smaller than that of group A (P < 0.001). Two rabbits of group A were euthanized at 3 weeks due to costal retraction. In group B, six rabbits died within 3 weeks after laser irradiation due to severe tracheal stenosis and tracheal malacia, while one rabbit was euthanized 16 days after the irradiation. All rabbits in group C survived up to 4 weeks. Survival between three groups showed significant difference (P = 0.001).

Conclusion

The degree of stenosis was significantly different according to the delivered optical energy to tracheal mucosa. Therefore, the proposed model may be used in animal studies to emulate variable grades of tracheal stenosis. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:372–379, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Identification of a Glypican‐3‐Binding Peptide for In Vivo Non‐Invasive Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Detection
Authors: Qin Zainen , Wang Jingjing , Wang Ye , Wang Guohao , Wang Xiangyu , Zhou Zhiyang , Liu Gang , Gao Shi , Zhu Lei
Published: November 2016

Early and accurate detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is essential to improve the prognosis of patients and reduce the morbidity of surgical therapy. Glypican‐3 (GPC3) is a protein abnormally expressed in HCC that has been identified as a serological and histochemical HCC marker. A novel peptide that specifically recognizes GPC3 will facilitate early detection of HCC and guide the treatment strategy. Herein, phage display screening technology is utilized to obtain a GPC3 binding peptide (GBP) using HCC cells expressing GPC3 in varying abundances. After seven rounds of panning, a peptide with sequence of THVSPNQGGLPS is identified with 735.2 ± 53.6 × 10−9
m affinity to GPC3. The ability to target GPC3 in vivo is evaluated by intravenous injection of GBP labeled with a near‐infrared dye, Cy5.5, into a HCC tumor‐bearing mouse model. Significant high tumor accumulation (tumor/muscle ratio: 6.49 ± 0.55) of Cy5.5‐GBP in HepG2 tumors is observed compared with that of the low GPC3 expressing prostate cancer cell line, PC3 (tumor/muscle ratio: 1.15 ± 0.32). By targeting GPC3, GBP differentiates tumor tissues from normal liver tissues in patients, suggesting a great clinical translation potency of GBP. Collectively, GBP demonstrates great potential for HCC detection via fluorescent imaging or histological staining.

image
One‐Step Synthesis of Biodegradable Polyurethane Prepolymer and Its Rapid Gelation Behavior at High Water Content
Authors: Mu Youbing , Xue Sasa , Pei Danfeng , Jiang Wei , Wan Xiaobo
Published: November 2016

In this study, a very simple, scalable, and low‐cost one‐step recipe is presented for preparing a biodegradable polyurethane prepolymer composed of isocyanate terminated linear polyethylene glycol and isocyanate terminated four‐armed polycaprolactone. Then, the corresponding hydrogels are easily formed by mixing the prepolymer with water in few minutes. The resulting hydrogel shows excellent mechanical properties with high tensile strength (up to 233.6 KPa) and recorded elongation rate (5000%), while maintaining high water content (up to 91% mass ratio). Meanwhile, the maximum water retaining capacity of the hydrogel can be up to 40 times of polyurethane prepolymer (in mass), which is equal to 97.6% water content. In addition, the degradation properties of the obtained hydrogel are studied in detail. This study demonstrates a facile approach to prepare the hydrogel with both excellent mechanical properties and high water content, which marks it as a potential candidate for applications in agrological field, such as sand fixing in desertification control.

image
Tailoring the Retention of Charged Model Compounds in Polymer Functionalized Paper‐Based Microfluidic Devices
Authors: Wendenburg Sonja , Nachbar Michelle‐Lisa , Biesalski Markus
Published: November 2016

Studies on the retention of model compounds in tailor‐made microfluidic paper devices using laboratory‐made paper sheets and lithographic polymer deposition for the design of micro­fluidic paper substrate are presented. The capillary‐driven transport of two differently charged dyes (tartrazine, methylene blue) as model molecules is studied under fully wetted conditions. By quantitative retention factor analysis, it is shown that the dye retention can be controlled within the paper channel by the pH and the conductivity of the fluid phase. The retention is further strongly influenced by the application of solutions of just one model dye compared to a mixture of multiple dyes, and the presence of in‐channel defined “polymer patches” (i.e., areas where the paper fibers have been modified with a functional polymer carrying charges prior to the fully wetted flow). Such covalently attached polymer patches can be used easily to concentrate oppositely charged molecules at spatially defined positions within the microfluidic paper.

image
Phase‐Separation‐Induced Formation of Janus Droplets Based on Aqueous Two‐Phase Systems
Authors: Yuan Hao , Ma Qingming , Song Yang , Tang Matthew Y. H. , Chan Yau Kei , Shum Ho Cheung
Published: November 2016

In this study, Janus droplets are fabricated by inducing phase separation of single‐phase droplets made up of an aqueous two‐phase system (ATPS). The resultant Janus droplets are highly monodisperse in structures and internal morphologies. Due to the affinity partitioning properties of ATPS, encapsulated ingredients can automatically partition into different compartments of the resultant Janus droplets. The use of biocompatible and cytocompatible ATPS also enables the encapsulation of enzymes and cells in the resultant droplets with their activity preserved at a relatively high level.

image
Thermoresponsive Polymer Brushes on Organic Microspheres for Biomolecular Separation and Immobilization
Authors: Bagán Héctor , Kamra Tripta , Jiang Lingdong , Ye Lei
Published: November 2016

A new method is developed to synthesize organic microsphere‐supported polymer brushes for affinity separation of saccharides and glycoproteins. In the first step, crosslinked polymer microspheres are synthesized using atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). The terminal ATRP initiators on the microspheres are used to graft polymer brushes from propargyl acrylate andN‐isopropyl acrylamide. The microsphere‐supported polymer brushes are conjugated with an azide‐tagged phenylboronic acid to complete the material synthesis. The microsphere‐supported, boronic acid‐containing polymer brushes are able to bind not only low molecular weightcis‐diol compounds but also glycoproteins. The synthetic procedure developed in this work provides a convenient means for preparing all‐organic microsphere‐supported polymer brushes that have high alkaline stability. Using the surface‐attached polymer brushes to immobilize a catalytic glycoprotein (horseradish peroxidase), it is possible to retain on‐particle enzyme activity due to the open structure of the polymer brushes and the oriented immobilization.

image
Union Vulnerability Audit
Authors: DeMaria Alfred T.
Published: November 2016

The union vulnerability audit is a vital tool for organizations that choose to remain union‐free. It helps to identify weaknesses in personnel policies or practices that make the organization more vulnerable to unionization. Correcting weaknesses is far preferable to being forced to negotiate fixes in a union contract. Audit questions are asked by management to management. This is in contrast to employee attitude surveys, which are themselves another tool for union avoidance.
Detailed Molecular Dynamics Simulation of the Structure and Self‐Diffusion of Linear and Cyclic n‐Alkanes in Melt and Blends
Authors: Alatas Panagiotis V. , Tsalikis Dimitrios G. , Mavrantzas Vlasis G.
Published: November 2016

Results are presented for the density, free volume, self‐diffusion, structure, and conformation of short linear and cyclic n‐alkanes in their own melt and in blends at equal carbon number from detailed atomistic molecular dynamics (MD) simulations in the isothermal‐isobaric (NPT) statistical ensemble using the explicit‐atom optimized potentials for liquid simulations (OPLS‐AA) force‐field. In agreement with experimental data reported in an earlier study by von Meerwall et al. (2003), cyclic alkanes are characterized by higher densities and diffuse more slowly than their equivalent linear alkanes. Their configurations are also dominated by certain conformers whose exact shape depends on the molecular length n of the cyclic alkane. The smaller the value of n the more symmetric the shape of these conformers. The MD results support the findings of von Meerwall et al. (2003) that the overall (single average) diffusion coefficient of linear and cyclic alkanes in their blend is equal to the weight‐average of the diffusion coefficients of the neat species at the same temperature. Simulation results are also presented for the average size, individual diffusivities, and intermolecular CC pair distribution function of the two components (linear and cyclic) as a function of molecular weight and blend concentration in cyclic molecules.

image
Metal fiber incorporation in carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP) for improved electrical conductivity
Authors: Hannemann B. , Backe S. , Schmeer S. , Balle F. , Breuer U. P.
Published: November 2016

Compared to aluminum alloys, contemporary carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP) structures offer poor electrical conductivity. Additional metal elements are necessary to fulfill important electrical functions like lightning strike protection, electromagnetical shielding, electrical bonding and grounding, compromising carbon fiber reinforced polymers' lightweight potential. Past research attempts tried to overcome this drawback by modifying the resin system, but could not demonstrate sufficient improvements. A different approach is the incorporation of highly conductive endless metal fibers into the carbon fiber reinforced polymers. The increased density of the composite is compensated by eliminating the need for additional electrical system installation items. The present paper covers the feasibility of this novel hybrid material concept.

For this purpose, electrical conductivity tests are realized on unidirectional coupons with different steel fiber volume fractions and compared with analytical values. Stainless chrome‐nickel steel fibers as well as copper cladded low carbon steel fibers are investigated. First, the specific conductance of the steel fibers is determined. These values are used to calculate the potential conductivity of unidirectional reinforced hybrid laminates based on the rule of mixture. Subsequently, unidirectional reinforced hybrid laminates with different steel fiber fractions are manufactured. The specific conductance of these composites is measured, using an in‐house developed conductivity testing facility.

The test results show that by incorporating steel fibers the electrical conductance of the composite can be increased by a factor of 29.8, compared to conventional carbon fiber reinforced polymers.
Phenomenological investigation of a carbon fibre based strain sensor with spatial resolution by means of time domain reflectometry
Authors: Höhne R. , Ehrig T. , Kostka P. , Modler N.
Published: November 2016

Fibre reinforced plastics feature versatile function‐integrative capabilities, e.g. the possibility to realise embedded Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) systems. Material‐compatible sensors are a prerequisite for a robust and reliable function of such systems. Among others, sensors based on carbon fibres are in the focal point of research due to their high material compatibility. The contribution proposes a novel continuous strain sensor based on embedded carbon fibres. In opposition to typical carbon fibre sensors, the presented measurement principle is based on the reversible opening and closing of aligned carbon fibre fragments. The phenomenological effects are investigated by a combined electrical, mechanical and optical analysis. The sensor features a strain sensitivity that is up to four orders of magnitude higher than the one of current carbon fibre sensors. For the first time, the application of the electrical time domain reflectometry for a spatially resolved strain measurement with carbon fibre sensors is presented here. In addition a damage localisation capability with an observed spatial resolution in the lower mm‐range is possible.
Juxtaposed genes in 7q21‐22 amplicon contribute for two major gastric cancer sub‐Types by mutual exclusive expression
Authors: Tamilzhalagan Sembulingam , Muthuswami Muthulakshmi , Ganesan Kumaresan
Published: November 2016

Genomic Copy Number Variations (CNV) and the associated gene signatures are useful for cancer prognosis, diagnosis, and targeted therapeutics. Earlier, 7q21‐22 region was reported for frequent amplification in gastric cancer and potential candidate genes were identified. An analysis of the expression pattern of the 159 genes located in this amplicon revealed the consistent elevated expression of 21 genes in gastric tumors. These genes are closely arranged within the 20 Mb region, and they showed a bimodal expression pattern.SHFM1and 14 other genes are expressed in intestinal type gastric tumors.COL1A2andPCOLCEgenes of this region are expressed in diffuse type gastric tumors. Similarly, genome‐wide expression neighbors ofSHFM1andCOL1A2also showed mutually exclusive expression pattern, and stratify intestinal and diffuse type gastric tumors. The expression ofCOL1A2gene‐set is associated with poor prognosis, whereas theSHFM1gene‐set is associated with better prognosis among the gastric cancer patients. Despite being physical neighbors, theSHFM1andCOL1A2genes express differentially in the two major clinical sub‐types of gastric cancer in a mutually exclusive manner. The tight gene regulations operating between these juxtaposed genes deserve investigation to understand the molecular regulatory switch defining the determinants of the gastric cancer sub‐types. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc
Helicobacter pylori infection modulates the expression of miRNAs associated with DNA mismatch repair pathway
Authors: Santos Juliana C. , Brianti Mitsue T. , Almeida Victor R. , Ortega Manoela M. , Fischer Wolfgang , Haas Rainer , Matheu Ander , Ribeiro Marcelo L.
Published: November 2016

Genetic and epigenetic inactivation of DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes might lead to modifications in cancer‐related gene expression and cancer development. Recently, it has been shown that the infection by Helicobacter pylori, the major causative agent of gastric cancer, induces DNA damage and inhibits MMR DNA repair. Also, it has been reported that microRNAs (miRs) have an important role in regulating genomic stability and MMR DNA repair. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify miRs regulating MMR pathway in H. pylori‐associated gastric carcinogenesis. To address this question, a gastric epithelial cell line and AGS cancer gastric cells were infected with several H. pylori strains. MMR gene expression and miRs correlating with H. pylori strain infection were evaluated. The results showed that H. pylori infection significantly down‐regulated the expression of all selected MMR genes. Also, H. pylori infection modulated the expression of several miRs (including miR‐150‐5p, miR‐155‐5p, and miR‐3163), after 4, 8, and 12 h of infection. Computational prediction of candidate miRs and their predicted MMR targeting sites were obtained from TargetScan, mirDB, and MetaCore. The generated data indicated that the selected miRs (miR‐150‐5p, miR‐155‐5p, and miR‐3163) could possibly target and modulate MMR genes (POLD3, MSH2, and MSH3, respectively). The target validation was performed using mimics and luciferase gene reporter assays. Briefly, this study shows that H. pylori impairs MMR DNA repair pathway and identifies miRs that regulate MMR gene expression in gastric cancer. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Loss of MicroRNA‐489‐3p promotes osteosarcoma metastasis by activating PAX3‐MET pathway
Authors: Liu Qifei , Yang Guochun , Qian Yuying
Published: November 2016

Osteosarcoma (OS) remains one deadly disease for many affected patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are thought to have an important role in tumor metastasis by regulating diverse cellular pathways. Here, we describe the function and regulation network of miR‐489‐3p in osteosarcoma (OS) metastasis. MiR‐489‐3p expression was downregulated in OS cells especially in high metastatic potential cells and was also significantly decreased in metastatic lesions compared with their corresponding primary tumor samples. Both gain‐ and loss‐of‐function studies confirmed that miR‐489‐3p significantly suppressed OS cell invasion and metastasis both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, paired box gene 3 (PAX3) was identified as a functional target of miR‐489‐3p in OS cells. MiR‐489‐3p inhibited OS metastasis by negatively regulating expression of PAX3. In addition, PAX3 expression was markedly higher in OS tissues than in adjacent non‐cancerous tissues. Transwell assays and in vivo metastasis assays demonstrated that overexpression of PAX3 significantly promoted the invasiveness and pulmonary metastasis of OS cells. On the other hand, downregulation of PAX3 markedly reduced cell metastatic potential. Mechanistic investigations indicated that prometastasis function of PAX3 was mediated by upregulating downstream target MET tyrosine kinase receptor. In conclusion, our results reveal that miR‐489‐3p‐PAX3‐MET signaling is critical to OS metastasis. Targeting the pathway described here may open new therapeutic prospects to restrict the metastatic potential of OS. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Anatomic variability of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve: Value of 3T MRI in identifying anomaly for surgical intervention
Authors: Fritz Jan , Zolnoun Denniz , Lee Dellon A.
Published: November 2016

The anatomic variability of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFC) creates diagnostic as well as therapeutic problems. A case is reported in which a woman with complaints of pain in the anterior and lateral thigh was referred for evaluation. Symptoms arose after an abdominal hysterectomy. Her symptoms were the territory of the LFC and not of the L2/L3 dermatome. She had a Tinel sign that was positive for the LFC skin territory, but this was located over the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS), instead of medial to it. For this reason, a 3‐Tesla MR neurography imaging was obtained. This showed the LFC as crossing over the ASIS, instead of being located either within or beneath the inguinal ligament. MRI imaging facilitated successful surgical treatment. This is the first report of the MR neurography and intraoperative appearance of this least common anatomic course for the LFC.
Piperine inhibits ABCA1 degradation and promotes cholesterol efflux from THP‐1‐derived macrophages
Authors: Wang Limei , Palme Veronika , Rotter Susanne , Schilcher Nicole , Cukaj Malsor , Wang Dongdong , Ladurner Angela , Heiss Elke H. , Stangl Herbert , Dirsch Verena M. , Atanasov Atanas G.
Published: November 2016

Scope

Increased macrophage cholesterol efflux (ChE) is considered to have anti‐atherosclerotic effect counteracting cardiovascular disease. The principle pungent ingredient of the fruits of Piper nigrum, piperine, is identified in this study as a ChE inducer in THP‐1‐derived macrophages, and mechanisms underlying this effect are explored.

Methods and results

Without affecting cell viability, piperine concentration‐dependently enhances ChE in THP‐1‐derived macrophages from 25 to 100 μM. The expression level of the key cholesterol transporter protein ATP‐binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) is significantly upregulated by piperine, as revealed by western blot analyses. However, two other ChE‐mediating transporter proteins, ATP‐binding cassette transporter G1 (ABCG1) and scavenger receptor class B member 1 (SR‐B1), remain unaffected. Piperine exerts no influence on ABCA1 mRNA levels, but significantly inhibits the degradation of ABCA1, as evident by an increased half‐life of the protein in the presence of cycloheximide. Furthermore, it is found that piperine likely interferes with the calpain‐mediated ABCA1 degradation pathway and exhibits significant inhibition of calpain activity.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that piperine promotes ChE in THP‐1‐derived macrophages by upregulation of ABCA1, which might be mediated by inhibition of calpain activity. This novel bioactivity makes the dietary constituent piperine a good candidate to be further explored for therapeutic or preventive applications in the context of atherosclerosis.
Compartmentalized low‐rank recovery for high‐resolution lipid unsuppressed MRSI
Authors: Bhattacharya Ipshita , Jacob Mathews
Published: November 2016

Purpose

To introduce a novel algorithm for the recovery of high‐resolution magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) data with minimal lipid leakage artifacts, from dual‐density spiral acquisition.

Methods

The reconstruction of MRSI data from dual‐density spiral data is formulated as a compartmental low‐rank recovery problem. The MRSI dataset is modeled as the sum of metabolite and lipid signals, each of which is support limited to the brain and extracranial regions, respectively, in addition to being orthogonal to each other. The reconstruction problem is formulated as an optimization problem, which is solved using iterative reweighted nuclear norm minimization.

Results

The comparisons of the scheme against dual‐resolution reconstruction algorithm on numerical phantom and in vivo datasets demonstrate the ability of the scheme to provide higher spatial resolution and lower lipid leakage artifacts. The experiments demonstrate the ability of the scheme to recover the metabolite maps, from lipid unsuppressed datasets with echo time (TE) = 55 ms.

Conclusion

The proposed reconstruction method and data acquisition strategy provide an efficient way to achieve high‐resolution metabolite maps without lipid suppression. This algorithm would be beneficial for fast metabolic mapping and extension to multislice acquisitions. Magn Reson Med 78:1267–1280, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Investigation of anodal stimulation and its implications for F‐wave examinations
Authors: Kanbayashi Takamichi , Yamauchi Takaharu , Miyaji Yosuke , Sonoo Masahiro
Published: November 2016

Introduction: Recent studies have shown that stimulation occurs at the anode of stimulating electrodes instead of anodal block. This phenomenon may be a pitfall in F‐wave examinations. Methods: Subjects included 10 healthy volunteers. Their ulnar nerve was stimulated at the wrist with the cathode placed distally. Antidromic impulses were evaluated using mixed nerve action potential (MNAP) at the elbow. Results: Anodal stimulation occurred for both sensory and motor fibers at 22 mm proximal to the anode, on average, which may theoretically shorten the F‐wave latency by about 0.8 ms. Displacement of the anode away from the nerve made anodal stimulation less likely. In contrast, displacement of the cathode away from the nerve lowered the threshold for anodal stimulation, a newly found interaction between cathode and anode. Conclusions: In this work we identified detailed features of anodal stimulation and potential influence on F‐wave examinations. Muscle Nerve 56: 51–56, 2017.
A review of muscle‐ and performance‐based assessment instruments in DM1
Authors: Symonds Tara , Campbell Patrick , Randall Jason A.
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Many outcome assessments used in myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) were developed in other populations. Therefore, reliability and validity of these must be established in DM1 populations.

Methods

A structured literature review was conducted to identify muscle strength and performance‐based functional outcome assessments used in DM1 and to review the DM1‐specific reliability and validity evidence for those outcome assessments.

Results

Eighteen articles met inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The quantitative muscle testing technique and manual muscle testing were the key assessments of muscle strength. Reliability and validity evidence was also noted for several functional assessments of upper extremity (e.g., Purdue Pegboard Test) and lower extremity function (6‐Minute Walk Test).

Conclusions

This review identified a few measures with encouraging reliability and validity for use in a DM1 populations but highlighted the need for more research. Muscle Nerve 56: 78–85, 2017.
Bent spine syndrome as the initial symptom of late‐onset Pompe disease
Authors: Taisne Nicolas , Desnuelle Claude , Juntas Morales Raul , Ferrer Monasterio Xavier , Sacconi Sabrina , Duval Fanny , Sole Guilhem , Flipo René Marc , Lacour Arnaud , Vermersch Patrick , Cardon Thierry
Published: November 2016

Introduction: Late‐onset Pompe disease (LOPD) is a rare disorder characterized by progressive proximal muscle weakness and early respiratory insufficiency, for which enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) is available. Methods: Having diagnosed a case of LOPD presenting with bent spine syndrome, we conducted a brief survey in the French centers involved in management of Pompe disease, from which we collected data on 3 other cases. Results: The patients (3 women and 1 man) had a mean age of 64 years (range 51–77 years) and a delay in diagnosis of approximately 10 years (range 8–42 years). At diagnosis, 3 patients already had respiratory symptoms. All had normal or very mildly raised creatine kinase levels and magnetic resonance imaging abnormalities in the paraspinal muscles. They exhibited the most frequent mutation in Pompe disease (c.‐32‐13 T>G). Conclusion: Clinicians should be aware of this atypical presentation of LOPD to enable earlier diagnosis and treatment. Muscle Nerve 56: 167–170, 2017
MRI bullseye sign: An indicator of peripheral nerve constriction in parsonage‐turner syndrome
Authors: Sneag Darryl B. , Saltzman Eliana B. , Meister David W. , Feinberg Joseph H. , Lee Steve K. , Wolfe Scott W.
Published: November 2016

Introduction

The role of MRI in identifying hourglass constrictions (HGCs) of nerves in Parsonage‐Turner syndrome (PTS) is largely unknown.

Methods

Six patients with PTS and absent or minimal recovery underwent MRI. Surgical exploration was performed at identified pathologic sites.

Results

The time between symptom onset and surgery was 12.4 ± 6.9 months; the time between MRI and surgery was 1.3 ± 0.6 months. Involved nerves included suprascapular, axillary, radial, and median nerve anterior interosseous and pronator teres fascicles. Twenty‐three constriction sites in 10 nerves were identified on MRI. A “bullseye sign” of the nerve, identified immediately proximal to 21 of 23 sites, manifested as peripheral signal hyperintensity and central hypointensity orthogonal to the long axis of the nerve. All constrictions were confirmed operatively.

Conclusions

In PTS, a bullseye sign on MRI can accurately localize HGCs, a previously unreported finding. Causes of HGCs and the bullseye sign are unknown. Muscle Nerve 56: 99–106, 2017.
A new simplified Hypothesis B method for calculating consolidation settlements of double soil layers exhibiting creep
Authors: Feng W.‐Q. , Yin J.‐H.
Published: November 2016

This paper presents a new simplified method, based on Hypothesis B, for calculating the consolidation settlements of double soil layers exhibiting creep. In the new simplified Hypothesis B method, different stress–strain states including over‐consolidation and normal consolidation states can be considered with the help of the ‘equivalent time’ concept. Zhu and Yin method and US Navy method are adopted to calculate the average degree of consolidation for a double soil layer profile. This new simplified Hypothesis B method is then used to calculate the consolidation settlements of double soil layers, which have two different total thicknesses of soil layer (4 m and 8 m) and three different OCR values (Over‐Consolidation Ratio, OCR = 1, 1.5 and 2). The accuracy and verification of this new simplified method are examined by comparing the calculated results with simulation results from a fully coupled finite element (FE) program using a soft soil creep model. Four cases of double layer soil profiles are analyzed. Hypothesis A method with US Navy method for the average degree of consolidation has also been used to for calculating consolidation settlements of the same cases. For Case I(4m) and Case III(8m), it is found that curves of the new simplified Hypothesis B method using both Zhu and Yin method and US Navy method are very close to the results from FE simulations with the relative errors within 8.5%. For Case II(4m) and Case IV(8m), it is found that curves of the new simplified Hypothesis B method using Zhu and Yin method agree better with results from FE simulations with the relative errors within 11.7% than curves of the new simplified Hypothesis B method adopting US Navy method with the relative error up to 36.1%. Curves of Hypothesis A method adopting US Navy method have the relative error up to 55.0% among all four cases. In overall, the new simplified Hypothesis B method is suitable for calculation of consolidation settlements of double soil layers exhibiting creep, in which, Zhu and Yin method is recommended to obtain the average degree of consolidation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Organizational Learning Support Preferences of Millennials
Authors: Thompson Kevin S.
Published: November 2016

Since more than $140 Billion is invested annually on employee learning and development in the U.S (Harward, 2014) it is important that training leads to improved job performance. Millennials, who comprise the latest employee generation, are age 18–37 (Tyler, 2007) and share the same performance requirements and expectations of the generations that precede them in the workforce. The organizational learning supports to help millennials enhance their learning in the workplace remain largely undefined. This study explores how to support millennials in meeting their workplace learning goals. To achieve this generationally exclusive goal, qualitative research was performed amongst college–educated millennials in a for–profit, high–technology, U.S. corporation. Research data and analysis revealed specific learning support preferences for this generation. Most significantly a new role was identified, that of a learning guide who supports millennials’ learning and demonstrates sincere interest in their success. The results suggest that millennials will respond favorably when identified learning support preferences are present by increasing effort in training activities and committing to established learning goals.
Perspectives in AE: Supporting French Teachers for a Paradigm Shift in Grammar Education: A Teacher Trainer's Perspective
Authors: Thibeault Joël
Published: November 2016

This article presents a series of pedagogical workshops that was offered over two years to a cohort of 50 teachers practising in Ontarian French schools. Focusing on grammar teaching, the workshops’ objectives were to: (a) contribute to the teachers’ development of linguistic knowledge consistent with the grammar under new provincial standards and (b) assist teachers in discovering the socioconstructivist principles which underlie the renewed approaches to grammar teaching. This article is based on one of the teacher trainers’ perspectives; it provides a reflection on the series of workshops and draws upon Shulman and Shulman's (2004) model, which addresses the features of teacher learning in ways that describe, explain, and guide the professional development of teachers.
A skewed kernel approach for the simulation of shocks using SPH
Authors: Prasanna Kumar S. S. , Patnaik B. S. V. , Liu G. R.
Published: November 2016

A wide variety of jump discontinuities, such as shock fronts, are abound in high‐speed flows. An accurate approximation of these fronts may require higher order techniques either under mesh‐based methods or mesh‐free methods. In the latter class, the smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) is becoming popular as a promising method. However, the standard approach in SPH (like any other discrete methods) can result in highly diffusive solutions because of the inevitable use of artificial viscosity to suppress numerical oscillations. On the other hand, the SPH formulation allows innovative ways to model complicated phenomena. In this paper, we introduce the novel idea of a skewed Gaussian kernel, to improve the shock capturing capability in high speed flows. Here, the standard Gaussian kernel function is modified, and its ‘shape’ is altered with a predesigned tunable skewness parameter, while the basic unity property of the kernel function is still preserved. The SPH with the proposed skewed Gaussian kernel is then applied on a number of benchmark problems in computational fluid dynamics, featuring shocks. The simulations have shown significantly better shock capture through the skewed kernel approach as against the standard techniques, with almost no increase in computational time. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rapid Naked‐Eye Discrimination of Cytochrome P450 Genetic Polymorphism through Non‐Crosslinking Aggregation of DNA‐Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Akiyama Yoshitsugu , Wang Guoqing , Shiraishi Shota , Kanayama Naoki , Takarada Tohru , Maeda Mizuo
Published: November 2016

The front cover artwork is provided by the group of Tohru Takarada at RIKEN (Japan). The image shows a colorimetric single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping method that uses spontaneous aggregation of DNA‐modified gold nanoparticles (DNA–AuNPs) for the simple and rapid SNP genotyping of the human cytochrome P450 2C19 monooxygenase gene. For more details, read the full text of the Full Paper at p. 508.
Morphological analysis of differently sized highly porous poly(ether imide) microparticles by mercury porosimetry
Authors: Heuchel Matthias , Gerber David , Kratz Karl , Lendlein Andreas
Published: November 2016

Highly porous poly(ether imide) (PEI) microparticles prepared by a spraying/coagulation process are discussed as candidate adsorber materials for apheresis applications, i.e. removal of uremic toxins from the blood of renal failure patients. PEI particles obtained by the aforementioned procedure can have a broad size distribution with particle diameters ranging from 20 to 800 µm. In order to further estimate the adsorption behavior of PEI microparticles packed in application relevant apheresis modules, a quantitative information about the relation between particle size and pore morphology is required. In this study, we explored whether the intraparticle porosity of PEI microparticles varies with altering the diameter of the particulate adsorbers. By an analytical wet sieving procedure, the obtained PEI microparticles were separated into five size fractions, which were analyzed by mercury intrusion porosimetry, nitrogen adsorption, and scanning electron microscopy. Mercury intrusion porosimetry revealed for all size fractions high porosity values in the range from 78% to 84% with pore diameters in the range from 10 to 1000 nm. A bimodal pore size distribution was found having a first peak at around 100 nm, while a second pronounced peak maximum was found at higher pore sizes that increased with raising particle diameter from 300 nm for the smallest particle size fraction (50–100 µm) to 700 nm for particles with a diameter of 200 to 250 µm.

Based on these findings, it can be assumed that the main PEI particle size fraction (200–250 µm) should exhibit the highest adsorption capacity in an apheresis module. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of ethylene‐methyl acrylate compatibilizer on the thermo‐mechanical, rheological, and morphological properties of poly(Lactic acid)/biopolyethylene/clay biocomposites
Authors: Agrawal Pankaj , Alves Amanda M. , Brito Gustavo F. , Cavalcanti Shirley N. , Araújo Aylanna P. M. , Mélo Tomás J. A.
Published: November 2016

In this study, the effect of ethylene‐methyl acrylate (EMA) compatibilizer on the thermo‐mechanical, rheological, and morphological properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/biopolyethylene (BioPE)/OMMT clay biocomposites was investigated. The biocomposites containing 1 and 3 phr of OMMT clay were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), mechanical properties, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), and rheological properties under oscillatory shear flow. XRD results indicated that bionanocomposites with an intercalated structure were obtained for the PLA/BioPE/EMA/OMMT system containing 1 and 3 phr of OMMT clay. The addition of OMMT clay to PLA/BioPE blend led to a decrease in the modulus and tensile strength, while the impact strength was increased. The increase in the clay content from 1 to 3 phr did not affect the modulus and the tensile strength of the PLA/BioPE blend, while the impact strength was decreased. The impact strength of the PLA/BioPE/EMA/OMMT biocomposite containing 3 phr of clay was superior to that containing 1 phr of clay. The addition of EMA to PLA/BioPE/OMMT biocomposites substantially decreased the average size of the BioPE phase domains. DMTA results showed a decrease in the glass transition temperature (Tg) of PLA with the addition of OMMT clay to PLA/BioPE blend. Rheological measurements showed an increase in the viscosity at low frequencies with the addition OMMT to PLA/BioPE blend. Further increase in the viscosity was observed when EMA compatibilizer was added to PLA/BioPE/OMMT biocomposite. The results of DMTA and rheological measurements were ascribed to the morphology refinement and corroborated the results obtained by SEM. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E164–E173, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Tunable polyesterification of xylitol: from linear to crosslinked structures
Authors: Liz‐Andela Néstor I , Benitez Ricardo , Martin‐Franco Jaime , Rojas Giovanni
Published: November 2016

The copolymerization by condensation chemistry of succinic acid and xylitol, a byproduct from the sugarcane and alcohol industry, is reported. Two methodologies were studied concerning succinic acid, with and without carboxylic acid activation, yielding crosslinked and linear low molecular weight polymers, respectively. All polymerizations were carried out at reaction times in the range from 36 to 80 h, with a molar mass ratio of 1:1 and 1:3. Linear and crosslinked polyesters were analyzed by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry, DSC and TGA, and structural characterization was carried out by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and NMR. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Automated dual‐axis planar solar tracker with controllable vertical displacement for concentrating solar microcell arrays
Authors: Lim Taehoon , Kwak Pyo , Song Kwangsun , Kim Namyun , Lee Jongho
Published: November 2016

Concentrator photovoltaics are able to maintain power output for extended hours while reducing the quantity of expensive high performance compound semiconductor solar materials. One of the limitations in concentrator photovoltaics is the bulky and heavy form factors of solar tracking systems which usually require dedicated installation locations and resistance to wind loading. This paper describes a planar solar tracker that requires only micro or millimeter scale lateral and vertical displacements of a microlens array to maintain both the optimum lateral locations and focal lengths at various incident angles of light, using dual‐axis actuations. Experimental results for lateral solar tracker were obtained under a solar simulator considering the effects of the rotation and revolution of the Earth, and under the Sun on a rooftop with the actual system, to demonstrate the concept and practical performance. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dealing with long‐range interactions in the determination of polyelectrolyte ionization properties. Extension of the transfer matrix formalism to the full range of ionic strengths
Authors: Garcés Josep L. , Madurga Sergio , Rey‐Castro Carlos , Mas Francesc
Published: November 2016

The ionization state of charged macromolecules in solution is usually determined by the extent of the binding processes. These processes are very sensitive to the ionic strength of the medium, which are of long‐range nature. The ionization properties of weak polyelectrolytes can be described by means of Ising‐type models, which is only feasible when long‐range interactions are neglected. Here, this formalism is extended to include long‐range interactions by introducing a modified free energy involving only effective short‐range interaction parameters. These parameters can be systematically calculated by using the Gibbs‐Bogoliubov variational principle. The technique is illustrated with the calculation of titration curves of homogeneous and heterogeneous polyelectrolytes in a wide range of ionic strengths. The correction of the site protonation free energy (first order correction) is enough to obtain an excellent agreement between theory and Monte Carlo simulations. Corrections to other cluster parameters (higher‐order corrections) are also implemented. In general, the correction to a particular parameter represents the average change in the long‐range energy when a new interaction is created in the polyelectrolyte. The method presented here represents an improvement in the description of the ionization state of polyelectrolytes that can be relevant in a wide range of areas. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2017, 55, 275–284
How do we recognize the child with OSAS?
Authors: Joosten Koen F. , Larramona Helena , Miano Silvia , Van Waardenburg Dick , Kaditis Athanasios G. , Vandenbussche Nele , Ersu Refika
Published: November 2016

Obstructive sleep‐disordered breathing includes a spectrum of clinical entities with variable severity ranging from primary snoring to obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). The clinical suspicion for OSAS is most often raised by parental report of specific symptoms and/or abnormalities identified by the physical examination which predispose to upper airway obstruction (e.g., adenotonsillar hypertrophy, obesity, craniofacial abnormalities, neuromuscular disorders). Symptoms and signs of OSAS are classified into those directly related to the intermittent pharyngeal airway obstruction (e.g., parental report of snoring, apneic events) and into morbidity resulting from the upper airway obstruction (e.g., increased daytime sleepiness, hyperactivity, poor school performance, inadequate somatic growth rate or enuresis). History of premature birth and a family history of OSAS as well as obesity and African American ethnicity are associated with increased risk of sleep‐disordered breathing in childhood. Polysomnography is the gold standard method for the diagnosis of OSAS but may not be always feasible, especially in low‐income countries or non‐tertiary hospitals. Nocturnal oximetry and/or sleep questionnaires may be used to identify the child at high risk of OSAS when polysomnography is not an option. Endoscopy and MRI of the upper airway may help to identify the level(s) of upper airway obstruction and to evaluate the dynamic mechanics of the upper airway, especially in children with combined abnormalities. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2017;52:260–271. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Environmental Assessment of Ammunition: the Importance of a Life‐Cycle Approach
Authors: Ferreira Carlos , Ribeiro José , Almada Sara , Freire Fausto
Published: November 2016

Environmental research related with military actions has been focused on the monitoring of contaminants from live‐fire training and munitions disposal. It is important to take a further step and use this information to assess the environmental impacts of this contamination. In addition, it is relevant to assess the consequences of using different alternatives in a life‐cycle perspective to avoid unexpected problems, and assess the hotspots of ammunition manufacturing in order to decrease the impacts in terms of other types of environmental burdens. The Life‐Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology can be employed to quantitatively assess the environmental impacts associated with munitions. LCA can assist the decision makers in answering some questions: are “green“ ammunitions presenting lower environmental impacts than standard ones? What should be done to improve the performance of ammunitions from an environmental point of view? The aim of this paper is to demonstrate the importance of assessing the impacts of ammunitions in a life‐cycle perspective and highlight the main environmental concerns. Three applications of LCA are presented: the production and use of generic large calibre ammunition; the comparison of the production and use of four types of small calibre ammunitions; the assessment of two technologies for ammunition disposal. The conclusions drawn can aid in providing tailored and supported decisions in order to decrease the impacts of ammunitions in a life‐cycle perspective
Solution structure of the first RNA recognition motif domain of human spliceosomal protein SF3b49 and its mode of interaction with a SF3b145 fragment
Authors: Kuwasako Kanako , Nameki Nobukazu , Tsuda Kengo , Takahashi Mari , Sato Atsuko , Tochio Naoya , Inoue Makoto , Terada Takaho , Kigawa Takanori , Kobayashi Naohiro , Shirouzu Mikako , Ito Takuhiro , Sakamoto Taiichi , Wakamatsu Kaori , Güntert Peter , Takahashi Seizo , Yokoyama Shigeyuki , Muto Yutaka
Published: November 2016

The spliceosomal protein SF3b49, a component of the splicing factor 3b (SF3b) protein complex in the U2 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein, contains two RNA recognition motif (RRM) domains. In yeast, the first RRM domain (RRM1) of Hsh49 protein (yeast orthologue of human SF3b49) reportedly interacts with another component, Cus1 protein (orthologue of human SF3b145). Here, we solved the solution structure of the RRM1 of human SF3b49 and examined its mode of interaction with a fragment of human SF3b145 using NMR methods. Chemical shift mapping showed that the SF3b145 fragment spanning residues 598–631 interacts with SF3b49 RRM1, which adopts a canonical RRM fold with a topology of β1‐α1‐β2‐β3‐α2‐β4. Furthermore, a docking model based on NOESY measurements suggests that residues 607–616 of the SF3b145 fragment adopt a helical structure that binds to RRM1 predominantly via α1, consequently exhibiting a helix–helix interaction in almost antiparallel. This mode of interaction was confirmed by a mutational analysis using GST pull‐down assays. Comparison with structures of all RRM domains when complexed with a peptide found that this helix–helix interaction is unique to SF3b49 RRM1. Additionally, all amino acid residues involved in the interaction are well conserved among eukaryotes, suggesting evolutionary conservation of this interaction mode between SF3b49 RRM1 and SF3b145.