bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Silk fibroin‐chondroitin sulfate‐alginate porous scaffolds: Structural properties and in vitro studies
Authors: Naeimi Mitra , Fathi Mohammadhossein , Rafienia Mohammad , Bonakdar Shahin
Published: June 2014

The development of porous biodegradable scaffolds is of great interest in tissue engineering. In this regard, exploration of novel biocompatible materials is needed. Silk fibroin‐chondroitin sulfate‐sodium alginate (SF‐CHS‐SA) porous hybrid scaffolds were successfully prepared via lyophilization method and crosslinked by 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide‐ethanol treatment. According to the scanning electron microscopy studies, mean pore diameters of the scaffolds were in the range of 60–187 μm. The porosity percentage of the scaffold with SF‐CHS‐SA ratio of 70 : 15 : 15 (w/w/w %) was 92.4 ± 3%. Attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry results confirmed the transition from amorphous random coil to crystalline β‐sheet in treated SF‐CHS‐SA scaffold. Compressive modulus was significantly improved in hybrid scaffold with SF‐CHS‐SA ratio of 70 : 15 : 15 (3.35 ± 0.15 MPa). Cytotoxicity assay showed that the scaffolds have no toxic effects on chondrocytes. Attachment of chondrocytes was much more improved within the SF‐CHS‐SA hybrid scaffold. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction analyses showed a significant increase in gene expression of collagen type II, aggrecan, and SOX9 and decrease in gene expression of collagen type I for SF‐CHS‐SA compared with SF scaffold. This novel hybrid scaffold can be a good candidate to be utilized as an efficient scaffold for cartilage tissue engineering. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 41048.
Interactions between English‐speaking and Chinese‐speaking users and librarians on social networking sites
Authors: Huang Hong , Chu Samuel Kai‐Wah , Chen Dora Yu‐Ting
Published: June 2014

Social networking sites (SNSs) can encourage interaction among users. Existing research mainly focuses on the ways in which SNSs are used in libraries and on librarians’ or users’ attitudes towards these SNSs. This study focused on the flow of information via SNS interactions between librarians and users on library Facebook, Twitter, and Chinese Weibo sites, and developed an SNS user interaction type model based on these information flows. A mixed‐method approach was employed combining quantitative data generated from the analysis of 1,753 posts sampled from 40 library SNSs and qualitative data from interviews with 10 librarians. Four types of interactions were identified: information/knowledge sharing, information dissemination, communication, and information gathering. The study found that SNSs were used primarily as channels for disseminating news and announcements about things currently happening in the library. Communication allowed open‐ended questions and produced more replies. In Facebook posts, Chinese Facebook users generated less “likes” than English‐speaking users. The comparison of data between Facebook‐like and Twitter‐like SNSs in different library settings suggested that libraries need to coordinate different types of SNSs, and take library settings and sociocultural environments into consideration in order to enhance and encourage user engagement and interaction.
Dissecting aortic aneurysm induced by N‐(2‐aminoethyl) ethanolamine in rat: Role of defective collagen during development
Authors: Xu Ya , Treumann Silke , Rossbacher Roland , Schneider Steffen , Boor Paul J.
Published: June 2014

Background

Dissecting aortic aneurysm (DAA) is a tear in the wall of the aorta that causes blood to flow, or “dissect,” between the medial layers of the media.

Methods

Pregnant rats (dams) were treated with the industrial chemical n‐(2‐aminoethyl) ethanolamine (AEEA) by intraperitoneal injection or gavage. The histology and pathology of aorta in the thorax from newborn pups were examined. Aortas of fetuses of gestational day 20 from dams exposed to AEEA were harvested for immunohistochemical staining and native Western blot to study the changes of collagen type 1 and type 3 in aorta.

Results

Dissecting aortic aneurysm of newborn rats was induced by treating with AEEA through intraperitoneal injection or gavage. The incidence of DAA reached 100% in live pups at the high dose by means of gavage of AEEA, but without lethality compared with intraperitoneal injection. A grading system for the dose‐response of DAA lesions associated with AEEA by gavage was established. Gestational day 20 fetuses from treated dams showed a decreased content and altered distribution of medial and adventitial collagen type 1 and 3 in aorta by immunohistochemistry; this decrease was confirmed by native Western blot.

Conclusion

This in vivo model of spontaneous aortic dissection bears striking similarities histologically to human aortic dissection. As such, the model conceivably could contribute to elucidating the mechanisms of DAA formation and to exploring diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. The pathogenesis of AEEA‐induced DAA may be related to defects in the normal developmental progression of collagen types 1 and 3 in the vascular wall. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 100:924–933, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Outcomes of laparoscopic and open restorative proctocolectomy
Authors: White I , Jenkins J T , Coomber R , Clark S K , Phillips R K S , Kennedy R H
Published: June 2014

Background

The literature on laparoscopic restorative proctectomy (RP) and proctocolectomy (RPC) is limited. This study compared clinical outcomes of laparoscopic RP and RPC with those of conventional open surgery at one centre.

Methods

Data were analysed from consecutive patients undergoing RPC and RP between November 2006 and November 2011. A standard laparoscopic technique was developed during the first 2 years, performed by two laparoscopic surgeons, with selection of patients who had not previously undergone open colectomy. Study endpoints included postoperative length of stay, 30-day morbidity, readmission, reoperation, pouch function and failure.

Results

A total of 207 patients were included; open surgery was performed in 131 (63·3 per cent) and a laparoscopic procedure in 76 (36·7 per cent). There were no significant differences in patient demographics. The conversion rate was 9 per cent (7 of 76). The median (i.q.r.) duration of operation was shorter for open than for laparoscopic procedures: 208 (178–255) versus 285 (255–325) min respectively (P < 0·001). Laparoscopic RPC had a shorter length of stay: median (i.q.r.) 6 (4–8) versus 8 (7–12) days (P < 0·001). The rate of minor complications was lower in the laparoscopic group (33 versus 50·4 per cent; odds ratio (OR) 0·48, 95 per cent confidence interval 0·27 to 0·87). There were no significant differences in total complications (51 per cent after laparoscopy versus 61·5 per cent after open surgery; OR 0·66, 0·37 to 1·17), anastomotic leakage, major morbidity, 30-day readmission, reoperation and stoma closure rates. Pouch failure (including permanent stoma) occurred in 14 (7·7 per cent) of 181 patients. Three patients died, all in the open surgery group.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic RPC is feasible with some short-term advantages.
American Social Work Student Attitudes Towards Foster Youth Empowerment
Authors: Steen Julie A. , Buckey Julia W.
Published: June 2014

This study was conducted to provide child welfare researchers and social work educators with a better understanding of social work student attitudes towards foster youth empowerment, a practice whereby the adolescent and workers in the foster care system share power with one another. In order to identify correlates of support for foster youth empowerment, American students across all levels of the undergraduate and graduate programmes within one school of social work were surveyed. Results indicated that support for foster youth empowerment was stronger among students who received specialised training in child abuse and neglect. In conclusion, support for foster youth empowerment may be more strongly cultivated by population‐specific material as opposed to the general social work curriculum. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

‘American students across all levels of the undergraduate and graduate programmes within one school of social work were surveyed’

Key Practitioner Messages

A multiple regression model was constructed with the goal of identifying the variables that relate to social work student support for foster youth empowerment.

In the multiple regression model, two variables, political party and training/education in child abuse and neglect, were significantly related to the dependent variable.

Based on this study, the general social work curriculum does not appear to have as much impact on attitudes towards foster youth empowerment as population‐specific material.

‘Two variables were significantly related to the dependent variable’
Eschewing Community: Black Metal
Authors: Venkatesh Vivek , Podoshen Jeffrey S. , Urbaniak Kathryn , Wallin Jason J.
Published: June 2014

There is a great deal of literature that examines community orientations, in particular consumption‐based subcultures rooted in the appreciation of music scenes such as heavy metal and its subgenres. Much of this literature focuses on aspects of community maintenance, reaffirmation of shared identities and building of social bonds. In the present article, we report a study in which consumption of, and fandom in a specific scene in extreme metal, namely black metal, may lead to very unique consumer cultural orientations. Our analyses reveal that black metal fans' identities reside in a realm outside of a desired collective identification and tightly knit community, but rather one that uses signification, or representational means to convey meaning and belonging, as a way to signal repugnance with society and a reverence of individuality. The study engages a mixed qualitative approach utilizing interviews, observational research and content analysis to demonstrate how self‐identity related to the black metal music scene can thrive through an ideological and semiotic rejection of traditional community orientations seen in the majority of other extreme metal music scenes. This paper challenges traditional conceptualizations of group identity in music scenes by closely examining aspects of signification and fandom in black metal that represent a unique system of shared identities devoid of community building. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Who becomes more violent among Korean adolescents? Consequences of victimisation in school
Authors: Jeong Seokjin , Davis Jaya , Han Youngsun
Published: June 2014

Background

Mainly Western studies suggest that bullying increases risk of subsequent offending. Less is known about risk of violence specifically. Very little such research is from Asia – none from Korea.

Aim

This study aimed to answer three research questions: Is being a victim of bullying in Korean schools associated with later perpetration of violent behaviour? Does type of bullying influence type of offending? Does school climate or parental control mediate this relationship?

Method

Juvenile justice intake officers identified 606 young offenders who were asked to complete questionnaires about their school experience, school climate and parental supervision. We used multinomial logit model with maximum likelihood estimation to evaluate relationships between the variables of interest.

Results

Over half (310) of these young people had committed at least one violent offence. Seventy‐six (13%) reported having experienced emotional bullying at school and 31 (5%) physical bullying. Violent offending was over twice as likely as property offending to be associated with emotional bullying history (OR 2.38, CI 1.13–5.01), but three times less likely with physical bullying (OR 0.31, CI 0.11–0.87). In addition, parental control (but not school climate) increased the likelihood of violent offending or other delinquency by 15% (OR 1.14, CI 1.02–1.26; OR 1.16, CI 1.01–1.32, respectively).

Conclusions/Implications

Our overarching finding of a relationship between childhood experience of bullying and later delinquency is in line with Western findings. Where, however, the latter are equivocal on risk of later violence perpetration, we found that being emotionally bullied raises the risk of becoming violent. Our findings also underscore the importance of having studies from a range of cultures. Predictions from Western studies would be that parental control would be protective and school climate a potential risk factor for later violence, but, in Korea, where parenting styles tend to be highly authoritarian, we found differently. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular Structure Models of Asphaltene in Crude and Upgraded Bio‐Oil
Authors: Xu Qingli , Zhang Zhikai , Zhang Suping , Wang Fu , Yan Yongjie
Published: June 2014

The average molecular formula of asphaltene was calculated from the main functional groups of asphaltene determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, the average molecular weight found by gel filtration chromatography, and values of ultimate analysis. A series of average structure parameters were determined by 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectrum integrals, followed by establishing the structure models of asphaltene according to the Brown‐Ladner method. Reduction of molecular weight of asphaltene was observed after bio‐oil upgrading, and the oxygen‐containing functional groups were apparently less than that of crude bio‐oil while the number of aromatic rings was increased. The upgraded bio‐oil had a lower molecular weight, lower oxygen content, and higher aromaticity compared with crude bio‐oil.
Comparison of Large‐Scale Production Methods of Fe2O3/Al2O3 Oxygen Carriers for Chemical‐Looping Combustion
Authors: Guo Lei , Zhao Hai‐bo , Ma Jin‐chen , Mei Dao‐feng , Zheng Chu‐guang
Published: June 2014

Oxygen carrier (OC) particles for chemical‐looping combustion (CLC) may be produced in large scale by a number of methods such as freeze granulation, spray drying, impregnation, and mechanical mixing methods. To select the most appropriate technology for large‐scale preparation, the four preparation methods were adopted to prepare Fe2O3/Al2O3 OCs and compared with each other in terms of productivity, preparation period, physical and chemical characterization, and reactivity in CLC of lignite. Freeze granulation and spray drying methods were found to be more suitable for large‐scale production of OCs for CLC. The results of the comparative studies may provide guidelines for selecting appropriate methods for preparing OCs on industrial scale.
Temporal trends in population‐based death rates associated with chronic liver disease and liver cancer in the United States over the last 30 years
Authors: Kim Yuhree , Ejaz Aslam , Tayal Amit , Spolverato Gaya , Bridges John F. P. , Anders Robert A. , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: June 2014

BACKGROUND

The health and economic burden from liver disease in the United States is substantial and rising. The objective of this study was to characterize temporal trends in mortality from chronic liver disease and liver cancer and the incidence of associated risk factors using population‐based data over the past 30 years.

METHODS

Population‐based mortality data were obtained from the National Vital Statistics System, and population estimates were derived from the national census for US adults (aged >45 years). Crude death rates (CDRs), age‐adjusted death rates (ADRs), and average annual percentage change (AAPC) statistics were calculated.

RESULTS

In total, 690,414 deaths (1.1%) were attributable to chronic liver disease, whereas 331,393 deaths (0.5%) were attributable to liver cancer between 1981 and 2010. The incidence of liver cancer was estimated at 7.1 cases per 100,000 population. Mortality rates from chronic liver disease and liver cancer increased substantially over the past 3 decades, with ADRs of 23.7 and 16.6 per 100,000 population in 2010, respectively. The AAPC from 2006 to 2010 demonstrated an increased ADR for chronic liver disease (AAPC, 1.5%; 95% confidence interval, 0.3%‐2.8%) and liver cancer (AAPC, 2.6%; 95% confidence interval, 2.4%‐2.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

A comprehensive approach that involves primary and secondary prevention, increased access to treatment, and more funding for liver‐related research is needed to address the high death rates associated with chronic liver disease and liver cancer in the United States. Cancer 2014;120:3058–3065. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Application of Transition‐Metal Complexes in Cyclohexane Oxidation: Synthesis, Structure, and Properties of Copper and Nickel Complexes with a Pincer N‐Heterocyclic Ligand
Authors: Xing Na , Xu Li Ting , Liu Xin , Wu Qiong , Ma Xi Tong , Xing Yong Heng
Published: June 2014

A series of coordination complexes, [CuCl2(H2L)] (1), [Ni(HL)2]⋅4 CH3CH2OH (2), [Cu(H2L)(dipic)]⋅0.5 HOCH2CH2OH⋅ 2 H2O (3), and [Ni(H2L)(dipic)]⋅0.5  HOCH2CH2OH⋅2 H2O (4) (H2L=2,6‐di(5‐methyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐3‐yl)pyridine, H2dipic=2,6‐pyridinedicarboxylic acid) are synthesized from bipyrazolyl derivative ligands. All of the complexes have been characterized by elemental analysis, IR and UV/Vis spectroscopy, powder X‐ray diffraction, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Structural analyses reveal that the H2L ligand in complexes 1–4 connects with one metal center in a tridentate manner. In addition, these complexes are potential catalysts in cyclohexane (Cy) oxidation with an acidic mixture of HCl and lactic acid. A putative mechanism for Cy oxidation promoted by complex 2 is also proposed.
Optical properties of ZnNb2O6 single crystals prepared via the optical floating zone technology
Authors: Xu Dapeng , Yang Hang , Li Liang , Zhou Qiang , Yuan Hongming , Cui Tian
Published: June 2014

By using an optical floating zone technology, orthorhombic columbit ZnNb2O6 single crystals are fabricated successfully. The as‐prepared sample are blue and transparent rods of Φ 4 to 6 mm ×L 48 mm and the biggest domain of Φ 4 mm× L 25 mm. After annealing, the sample fades to colorless. X‐ray diffractions indicates that the as‐perpared samples are ZnNb2O6 with orthorhombic columbite structure and grows along the a‐axis. The micropolariscopy in cross transmission arrangements analyzing give that the crystals are of low‐angle crystal boundary‐free and bubble‐free. Besides, the crystals have also been tested by Raman spectra, optical absorption and photoluminescence spectra before and after being annealed. The luminescence pattern has an emission peak located at 450 nm blue‐region.
Development of Automatic Voltage Regulator for Low‐Voltage Distribution Systems
Authors: Matsuda Katsuhiro , Horikoshi Kazuhiro , Seto Toshiyuki , Iyama Osamu , Kobayashi Hiromu
Published: June 2014

This paper presents the development of a new type of voltage regulator that can adequately maintain the voltage supplied to customers, dealing with the problem of voltage control that accompanies the widespread use of photovoltaic power generation systems. The newly developed device is a pole‐mounted voltage regulator consisting of a step‐down transformer that converts from high voltage to low voltage and a series transformer for voltage compensation. A demonstration test conducted at the CRIEPI Akagi Test Center confirmed that the voltage control function of the proposed voltage regulator is satisfactory, based on the proposed control algorithm. Simulation analysis, under the assumption of clustered installation of photovoltaic power generation systems, confirmed that the introduction of the proposed voltage regulator allows the system voltage to be adequately maintained and makes full photovoltaic power generation possible without suppressing the output. We anticipate that our proposed voltage regulator will be effective for adequately regulating the voltage in low‐voltage distribution systems and will effectively promote even more widespread photovoltaic power generation.
Measurements of Electron Density and Electron Temperature of Arc Discharge Plasmas Containing Metallic Vapors Using Laser Thomson Scattering
Authors: Tomita Kentaro , Yoshitake Shinya , Uchino Kiichiro , Takenaka Daigo , Toda Hiroaki , Hikita Masayuki , Suzuki Katsumi
Published: June 2014

Laser Thomson scattering (LTS) was applied to arc discharges generated in the atmosphere to measure electron density (ne) and electron temperature (Te). The electrode gap was 0.8 mm, and the electrode diameter was 1 mm. The applied voltage was 6 kV, the peak current was 600 A, and the decay time of the voltage and current was 25 μs. The spatiotemporal evolution of ne and Te was measured 10, 30, and 50 μs after discharge initiation. At these times, the obtained values of ne and Te were estimated to be in the ranges of (0.8 to 2.0) × 1023 m−3 and 1.0 to 2.2 eV, respectively. These values were consistent with those evaluated using Saha's thermodynamic equation at 1 atm. It was also found that the decay of the arc discharge produced using the tungsten–copper electrodes was much faster than that produced using the tungsten electrodes.
Purity assessment of recombinant human granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor in finished drug product by capillary zone electrophoresis
Authors: Benković Goran , Škrlin Ana , Madić Tomislav , Debeljak Željko , Medić‐Šarić Marica
Published: June 2014

Current methods for determination of impurities with different charge‐to‐volume ratio are limited especially in terms of sensitivity and precision. The main goal of this research was to establish a quantitative method for determination of impurities with charges differing from that of recombinant human granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (rhG‐CSF, filgrastim) with superior precision and sensitivity compared to existing methods. A CZE method has been developed, optimized, and validated for a purity assessment of filgrastim in liquid pharmaceutical formulations. Optimal separation of filgrastim from the related impurities with different charges was achieved on a 50 μm id fused‐silica capillary of a total length of 80.5 cm. A BGE that contains 100 mM phosphoric acid adjusted to pH 7.0 with triethanolamine was used. The applied voltage was 20 kV while the temperature was maintained at 25°C. UV detection was set to 200 nm. Method was validated in terms of selectivity/specificity, linearity, precision, LOD, LOQ, stability, and robustness. Linearity was observed in the concentration range of 6–600 μg/mL and the LOQ was determined to be 0.3% relative to the concentration of filgrastim of 0.6 mg/mL. Other validation parameters were also found to be acceptable; thus the method was successfully applied for a quantitative purity assessment of filgrastim in a finished drug product.
Interstitial 13q14 deletions detected in the karyotype and translocations with concomitant deletion at 13q14 in chronic lymphocytic leukemia: Different genetic mechanisms but equivalent poorer clinical outcome
Authors: Puiggros Anna , Venturas Marta , Salido Marta , Blanco Gonzalo , Fernandez‐Rodriguez Concepción , Collado Rosa , Valiente Alberto , Ruiz‐Xivillé Neus , Carrió Ana , Ortuño Francisco José , Luño Elisa , Calasanz María José , Ardanaz María Teresa , Piñán María Ángeles , Talavera Elisabet , González María Teresa , Ortega Margarita , Marugán Isabel , Ferrer Ana , Gimeno Eva , Bellosillo Beatriz , Delgado Julio , Hernández José Ángel , Hernández‐Rivas Jesús María , Espinet Blanca ,   on behalf of Grupo Cooperativo Español de Citogenética Hematológica (GCECGH) and Grupo Español de Leucemia Linfática Crónica (GELLC)
Published: June 2014

Deletion of 13q14 as the sole abnormality is a good prognostic marker in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Nonetheless, the prognostic value of reciprocal 13q14 translocations [t(13q)] with related 13q losses has not been fully elucidated. We described clinical and biological characteristics of 25 CLL patients with t(13q), and compared with 62 patients carrying interstitial del(13q) by conventional G‐banding cytogenetics (CGC) [i‐del(13q)] and 295 patients with del(13q) only detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) [F‐del(13q)]. Besides from the CLL FISH panel (D13S319, CEP12, ATM, TP53), we studied RB1 deletions in all t(13q) cases and a representative group of i‐del(13q) and F‐del(13q). We analyzed NOTCH1, SF3B1, and MYD88 mutations in t(13q) cases by Sanger sequencing. In all, 25 distinct t(13q) were described. All these cases showed D13S319 deletion while 32% also lost RB1. The median percentage of 13q‐deleted nuclei did not differ from i‐del(13q) patients (73% vs. 64%), but both were significantly higher than F‐del(13q) (52%, P < 0.001). Moreover, t(13q) patients showed an increased incidence of biallelic del(13q) (52% vs. 11.3% and 14.9%, P < 0.001) and higher rates of concomitant 17p deletion (37.5% vs. 8.6% and 7.2%, P < 0.001). RB1 involvement was significantly higher in the i‐del(13q) group (79%, P < 0.001). Two t(13q) patients (11.8%) carried NOTCH1 mutations. Time to first treatment in t(13q) and i‐del(13q) was shorter than F‐del(13q) (67, 44, and 137 months, P = 0.029), and preserved significance in the multivariate analysis. In conclusion, t(13q) and del(13q) patients detected by CGC constitute a subgroup within the 13q‐deleted CLL patients associated with a worse clinical outcome. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Near‐haploidization significantly associates with oncocytic adrenocortical, thyroid, and parathyroid tumors but not with mitochondrial DNA mutations
Authors: Corver Willem E. , van Wezel Tom , Molenaar Kees , Schrumpf Melanie , van den Akker Brendy , van Eijk Ronald , Ruano Neto Dina , Oosting Jan , Morreau Hans
Published: June 2014

Mitochondrial‐rich oncocytic thyroid tumors frequently show near‐haploidization and endoreduplication (masked haploidization), which manifests as a near‐homozygous genome (NHG). We now extend this investigation to include adrenocortical cancer and parathyroid carcinoma (PaTC), which we studied for a NHG in association with mitochondrial DNA mutations. Sixty endocrine tumors from 59 patients were studied, including 46 thyroid tumor samples of varying histology, 11 adrenocortical cancers, and 3 PaTCs. Genome‐wide SNP array analysis and DNA content analysis were combined to determine the chromosomal dosage (allelic state). The entire mitochondrial genome was also studied for mutations. In addition, tumors were characterized for somatic mutations in a subset of genes that are directly or indirectly implicated in cellular metabolism. In addition to a subset of thyroid cancers (n = 5), a NHG was also observed in 1 of 3 PaTCs and 6 of 11 adrenocortical cancers. All but one of the tumors with a NHG (n = 12) showed oncocytic metaplasia (P = 0.0001, two‐tailed Fisher's exact). One or more damaging or disrupting mtDNA mutations were found in 68% (41/60) of tumor samples. No correlation was found between mtDNA mutations and the oncocytic phenotype or a NHG, and none of the mutations in nuclear encoded genes correlated with the oncocytic phenotype or a NHG. A subset of oncocytic tumors of the thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenocortical carcinomas carries a NHG. Although damaging/disrupting mtDNA mutations are frequently found in oncocytic and nononcocytic endocrine tumors, neither correlates with a NHG phenotype nor with an oncocytic phenotype. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Berelekh Mammoth “Graveyard”: New Chronological and Stratigraphical Data from the 2009 Field Season
Authors: Pitulko Vladimir V. , Basilyan Aleksandr E. , Pavlova Elena Y.
Published: June 2014

To clarify unanswered questions of site formation, geology and the archaeology of the Berelekh geoarchaeological complex, a special survey was undertaken in 2009 of the area surrounding the site. Several geological units have been revealed. By establishing the spatial and temporal relationship of these deposits—as well as their age—we have reconstructed the formation history of the Berelekh bone bed. The mammoth bone deposit belongs to a paleochannel. Radiocarbon dating of mammoth remains at Berelekh demonstrates rapid accumulation during the Bølling warming. Human involvement in its formation is, at best, questionable, since there is no real overlap between the radiocarbon dates associated with past human activity, and those of the mammoth bone bed. This study confirms that humans used mammoth bone remains after the bone bed was deposited. Culturally, the Berelekh “site” does not have any relationship to the so‐called “Dyuktai culture.” Instead, the Berelekh archaeological finds (side notched stone pendants) show certain similarities to non‐microblade terminal Pleistocene assemblages found from Yenisei to Kamchatka. Additionally, the Berelekh complex presents a clear analogy with lithics found in Eastern Beringia. Teardrop‐shaped incomplete bifaces found in the assemblage are comparable to the Chindadn points of Alaska. The nature of this “Chindadn connection” is intriguing but it is the only visible cultural link between Western and Eastern Beringia.
Mechanoresponses of human primary osteoblasts grown on carbon nanotubes
Authors: Kroustalli A. , Kotsikoris V. , Karamitri A. , Topouzis S. , Deligianni D.
Published: June 2014

Bone mechanotransduction is strongly influenced by the biomaterial properties. A good understanding of these mechanosensory mechanisms in bone has the potential to provide new strategies in the highly evolving field of bone tissue engineering. The aim of the present investigation was to study the interactive effects of local mechanical stimuli on multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)/osteoblast interface, using an in vitro model that allows the study of cell growth, attachment and differentiation. Strain was applied at physiological levels [strain magnitudes 500 microstrain (μɛ), at frequency of load application 0.5 Hz]. The effect of mechanical strain and substrate was thus studied by measuring the messenger RNA expression of alkaline phosphatase, vinculin, collagen 1A, and integrins β1, β3, α4, and αv, using real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The osteoblasts grown on MWCNTs displayed quick adaptation to the new environment by modulating the expression of key adhesion integrins. Furthermore, the addition of mechanical strain interplayed with the extracellular matrix and was efficiently transduced by cells grown on MWCNTs, providing stronger adhesion and survival. MWCNTs are therefore a material perfectly compatible with osteoblast differentiation, adhesion, and growth, and should be further evaluated, to derive new‐generation biomaterial scaffolds for the treatment of skeletal defects which require bone reconstruction. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 1038–1044, 2015.
Thermosensitive block copolymer hydrogels based on poly(ɛ‐caprolactone) and polyethylene glycol for biomedical applications: State of the art and future perspectives
Authors: Boffito Monica , Sirianni Paolo , Di Rienzo Anna Maria , Chiono Valeria
Published: June 2014

This review focuses on the challenges associated with the design and development of injectable hydrogels of synthetic origin based on FDA approved blocks, such as polyethylene glycol (PEG) and poly(ɛ‐caprolactone) (PCL). An overview of recent studies on inverse thermosensitive PEG/PCL hydrogels is provided. These systems have been proposed to overcome the limitations of previously introduced degradable thermosensitive hydrogels [e.g., PEG/poly(lactide‐co‐glycolic acid) hydrogels]. PEG/PCL hydrogels are advantageous due to their higher gel strength, slower degradation rate and availability in powder form. Particularly, triblock PEG/PCL copolymers have been widely investigated, with PCL–PEG–PCL (PCEC) hydrogels showing superior gel strength and slower degradation kinetics than PEG–PCL–PEG (PECE) hydrogels. Compared to triblock PEG/PCL copolymers, concentrated solutions of multiblock PEG/PCL copolymers were stable due to their slower crystallization rate. However, the resulting hydrogel gel strength was low. Inverse thermosensitive triblock PEG/PCL hydrogels have been mainly applied in tissue engineering, to decrease tissue adherence or, in combination with bioactive molecules, to promote tissue regeneration. They have also found application as in situ drug delivery carriers. On the other hand, the wide potentialities of multiblock PEG/PCL hydrogels, associated with the stability of their water‐based solutions under storage, their higher degradation time compared to triblock copolymer hydrogels and the possibility to insert bioactive building blocks along the copolymer chains, have not been fully exploited yet. A critical discussion is provided to highlight advantages and limitations of currently developed themosensitive PEG/PCL hydrogels, suggesting future strategies for the realization of PEG/PCL‐based copolymers with improved performance in the different application fields. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 1276–1290, 2015.
Multiwalled carbon nanotube‐modified poly(d,l‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) scaffolds for dendritic cell load
Authors: Yang Yanzhu , Shi Sanyuan , Ding Qian , Chen Jian , Peng Jinliang , Xu Yuhong
Published: June 2014

Poly(d,l‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) is widely used in a variety of tissue engineering and drug delivery applications due to its biodegradability and biocompatibility. But PLGA surfaces are usually hydrophobic which limited the loading and seeding capacities for cells, especially semiadherent immune cells. In this paper we described an attempt to improve the hydrophilicity and surface architecture for accommodating dendritic cells (DCs) that are widely used as professional antigen presenting cells in immune therapy of cancer and other diseases. The 3D porous PLGA scaffold was made by solvent casting/salt leaching of PLGA blended with surface functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (F‐MWCNTs). The incorporation and dispersion of F‐MWCNT in the scaffold structures resulted in not only improved surface hydrophilicity but also nanoscale surface structure that would provide a preferable microenvironment for DCs attachment. We think such a scaffold material may be more desirable for immune cell delivery for immunotherapy. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 1045–1052, 2015.
How to explant a diseased liver for living donor liver transplantation after previous gastrectomy with severe adhesion (with video)
Authors: Eguchi Susumu , Soyama Akihiko , Takatsuki Mitsuhisa , Hidaka Masaaki , Adachi Tomohiko , Kitasato Amane , Baimakhanov Zhassulan , Kuroki Tamotsu
Published: June 2014

We performed living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) in a patient who had undergone distal gastrectomy for gastric ulcer disease with Billroth I reconstruction 30 years before the LDLT. The adhesion was very severe between remnant stomach and hepatic hilum as well as left liver lobe with shortening of hepatoduodenal structures. After dissection of the infrahepatic inferior vena cava, the Spiegel lobe was identified from the dorsal side. The Spiegel lobe was then penetrated with a right angle dissector so that a plastic tape could be placed around the whole adhesion, including important structures in the hepatoduodenal ligament. Next, the right hepatic vein was transected with a vascular stapler using Pringle's maneuver using the plastic tape to fasten the entire adhesional structure. Subsequently, the trunk of the middle and left hepatic vein was transected after clamping. The remaining short hepatic veins in the left side were divided completely from the cranial to the caudal direction to dissect Spiegel's lobe. Finally, the hepatoduodenal ligament was identified from the attached remnant stomach and the duodenum and a vascular clamp was placed on the entire hepatoduaodenal ligament. Finally, the diseased liver was explanted for graft implantation. Thus, retrograde explantation of the liver was effective in decreasing the risk of damaging vital elements in the hepatoduodenal ligament, the remnant stomach, and the duodenum.
Sphere of influence of indole acetic acid and nitric oxide in bacteria
Authors: Koul Vatsala , Adholeya Alok , Kochar Mandira
Published: June 2014

Bacterial biosynthesis of the phytohormone, indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) is well established and along with the diffusible gaseous molecule, nitric oxide (NO) is known to positively regulate the developmental processes of plant roots. IAA and NO act as signaling molecules in plant–microbe interactions as they modulate the gene expression in both, plants and microorganisms. Although IAA and NO may not be required for essential bacterial physiological processes, numerous studies point towards a crosstalk between IAA and NO in the rhizosphere. In this review, we describe various IAA and NO‐responsive or sensing genes/proteins/regulators. There is also growing evidence for the interaction of IAA and NO with other plant growth regulators and the involvement of NO with the quorum sensing system in biofilm formation and virulence. This interactive network can greatly impact the host plant–microbe interactions in the soil. Coupled with this, the specialized σ54‐dependent transcription observed in some of the IAA and NO‐influenced genes can confer inducibility to these traits in bacteria and may allow the expression of IAA and NO‐influenced microbial genes in nutrient limiting or changing environmental conditions for the benefit of plants.
Variations in the most abundant types of glucosinolates found in the leaves of baby leaf rocket under typical commercial conditions
Authors: Hall Matthew K D , Jobling Jenny J , Rogers Gordon S
Published: June 2014

BACKGROUND

Changes in the concentration of the three most abundant glucosinolates were measured in the leaves of perennial wall rocket [Diplotaxis tenuifolia (L.) DC.], and annual garden rocket (Eruca sativa Mill.). HPLC‐MS was used to identify glucoraphanin, 4‐hydroxyglucobrassin and glucoerucin from perennial wall rocket, and glucoraphanin, glucobrassicin and 4‐methoxyglucobrassicin from annual garden rocket. In separate experiments the responses of glucosinolates to harvest number, seasonal conditions, nitrogen supply and post‐harvest storage conditions were measured.

RESULTS

For perennial wall rocket, season influenced the concentration of glucoraphanin, which were highest for the spring [379 µg kg−1 fresh weight (FW)] and summer (317 µg kg−1 FW) plantings. The concentration of 4‐hydroxyglucobrassin was higher in the leaves of first harvest crops. This response was due to this glucosinolate not being detected in the leaves of second harvest crops. Thus, the parent glucosinolate was altered between the first and second harvests in response to the abiotic stresses caused by harvesting. For annual garden rocket, there was an interaction between the harvest number and season for all glucosinolates measured. However, no clear response was observed between these factors. Higher concentrations of glucobrassicin and 4‐methoxyglucobrassicin were measured for first harvest leaves when compared to the second harvest. This was due to the absence of detection of these glucosinolates in the leaves of second harvested plants; consequently higher total glucosinolate concentrations were measured for the first harvest winter (1224 µg kg−1 FW) and summer (864 µg kg−1 FW) crops.

CONCLUSION

The concentrations of individual glucosinolates vary greatly over typical pre‐ and post‐harvest commercial conditions. The absence of 4‐hydroxyglucobrassin for perennial wall rocket, and glucobrassicin and 4‐methoxyglucobrassicin for annual garden rocket between harvests, illustrates that abiotic stress from harvesting has the capacity to alter the types of glucosinolates in leaves. Concentrations do not generally decline during a typical storage period, indicating that the potential benefits of these compounds are not lost during post‐harvest storage. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Properties of poly(lactide)–whey protein isolate laminated films
Authors: Phupoksakul Thunyaluck , Leuangsukrerk Manusawee , Numpiboonmarn Pidsawat , Somwangthanaroj Anongnat , Janjarasskul Theeranun
Published: June 2014

BACKGROUND

This study aims to examine the feasibility of a novel multi‐layer barrier film made entirely from biopolymers, which can be disposed after use in an economically and ecologically acceptable way, by employing mechanical strength and moisture barrier of poly(lactide) (PLA) films and oxygen barrier enhancement of whey protein isolate (WPI) films. The effect of glycerol was also determined. The three‐layer films, PLA/WPI/PLA, were compared with those made of linear low‐density polyethylene films (LLDPE/WPI/LLDPE). Composite structures of three‐layer films obtained by a simple casting method using denatured WPI solution plasticised with glycerol (GLY) at three different ratios of GLY:WPI (1:4, 1:2.5 and 1:1.5). The WPI solution was applied between two base layers of corona‐treated PLA or LLDPE films.

RESULT

The multi‐layer films showed good appearance with no noticeably visible change and good adhesion of layers. PLA enhanced tensile strength of the composite structure. Oxygen permeability of the multi‐layer films was significantly lower than the base films. The water vapour permeability of the structure relied mainly on the base films. The plasticiser content did not significantly affect the properties of the multi‐layer structures.

CONCLUSION

Results suggested that WPI could work successfully as an alternative oxygen barrier layer of multi‐layer structures. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
The use of ozone to extend the shelf‐life and maintain quality of fresh produce
Authors: Glowacz Marcin , Colgan Richard , Rees Deborah
Published: June 2014

Fresh produce has been recognised as a healthy food, thus there is increasing consumer demand for fresh fruit and vegetables. The shelf‐life of fresh produce, however, is relatively short and is limited by microbial contamination or visual, textural and nutritional quality loss. There are many methods to reduce/eliminate microorganisms present in food and ozone treatment is one of them. The use of ozone by the fresh produce industry is a good alternative to chemical treatments, e.g. the use of chlorine. The effectiveness of ozone as an antimicrobial agent has previously been reviewed and has been updated here, with the latest findings. The main focus of this review is on the effects of ozone on the fresh produce quality, defined by maintenance of texture, visual quality, taste and aroma, and nutritional content. Furthermore, ozone has been found to be efficient in reducing pesticide residues from the produce. The treatments that have the ability to reduce microbial contamination of the product without having an adverse effect on its visual, textural and nutritional quality can be recommended and subsequently incorporated into the supply chain. A good understanding of all the benefits and limitations related to the use of ozone is needed, and relevant information has been reviewed in this paper. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Factors contributing to recurrence of oral cavity and laryngeal tumors and estimation of tumor age
Authors: Choby Garret W. , Albergotti William G. , Byrd James K. , Egloff Ann Marie , Johnson Jonas T.
Published: June 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

To identify factors contributing to local tumor recurrence in oral cavity and laryngeal squamous cell carcinomas treated with surgery alone, to approximate tumor age from time to recurrence data by applying Collins' law, and to identify factors that may affect time to recurrence.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Methods

A retrospective review of all patients treated for head and neck cancer from 1997 to 2013 at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center was performed.

Results

A total of 517 patients treated with surgery alone qualified for the study, of which 84 had local recurrence, and 433 had no local recurrences. History of tobacco use (P = .017), pack‐year cigarette history (P = .001), and T stage (P = .03) were associated with disease recurrence. Overall, never tobacco users, those with fewer pack‐years of smoking history, and those with lower T stage were more likely to recur. Time to recurrence was significantly shorter for laryngeal tumors compared to oral cavity tumors (P = .027). Median time to recurrence for oral cavity tumors was 8.6 months and laryngeal tumors was 7.1 months.

Conclusions

In this study, lower pack‐year smoking history, lower T stage, and history of never tobacco use were associated with local tumor recurrence. Applying the concept of Collins' law to estimate the age of tumors at diagnosis, the median tumor age at diagnosis was estimated to be 8.6 months for oral cavity tumors and 7.1 months for laryngeal tumors.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope 124:2297–2304, 2014
Influence of asymmetric recurrent laryngeal nerve stimulation on vibration, acoustics, and aerodynamics
Authors: Chhetri Dinesh K. , Neubauer Juergen , Sofer Elazar
Published: June 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

Evaluate the influence of asymmetric recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) stimulation on the vibratory phase, acoustics and aerodynamics of phonation.

Study Design

Basic science study using an in vivo canine model.

Methods

The RLNs were symmetrically and asymmetrically stimulated over eight graded levels to test a range of vocal fold activation conditions from subtle paresis to paralysis. Vibratory phase, fundamental frequency (F0), subglottal pressure, and airflow were noted at phonation onset. The evaluations were repeated for three levels of symmetric superior laryngeal nerve (SLN) stimulation.

Results

Asymmetric laryngeal adductor activation from asymmetric left‐right RLN stimulation led to a consistent pattern of vibratory phase asymmetry, with the more activated vocal fold leading in the opening phase of the glottal cycle and in mucosal wave amplitude. Vibratory amplitude asymmetry was also observed, with more lateral excursion of the glottis of the less activated side. Onset fundamental frequency was higher with asymmetric activation because the two RLNs were synergistic in decreasing F0, glottal width, and strain. Phonation onset pressure increased and airflow decreased with symmetric RLN activation.

Conclusion

Asymmetric laryngeal activation from RLN paresis and paralysis has consistent effects on vocal fold vibration, acoustics, and aerodynamics. This information may be useful in diagnosis and management of vocal fold paresis.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 124:2544–2550, 2014