bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling of bispecific antibody elution in mixed‐mode cation‐exchange chromatography
Authors: Lee Yi Feng , Kluters Simon , Hillmann Mirjam , von Hirschheydt Thomas , Frech Christian
Published: July 2017

The increasing demand for cost‐efficient manufacturing of biopharmaceuticals has been the main driving force for the development of novel chromatography resins, which resulted in the development of multimodal or mixed‐mode chromatographic resins. Most of them combine electrostatic and hydrophobic functionalities and are designed to deliver unique selectivity and increased binding capacities also at increased ionic strength. However, the mechanism of the protein–resin interaction in mixed‐mode chromatography is still not fully understood. The performance of protein separations in mixed‐mode chromatography is consequently difficult to predict. In this work, we present a model combining both salt and pH dependence to characterize and to predict protein retention in mixed‐mode chromatography. The model parameters are determined based on simple linear pH gradient elution experiments at different ionic strengths and they are directly transferable for the prediction of salt‐induced elution at fixed pH. Validity of the model is demonstrated for a bispecific antibody and its product‐related impurities.
Phytic acid induced three‐dimensional graphene for the enrichment of phthalate esters from bottled water and sports beverage samples
Authors: Liang Xinyu , Wang Juntao , Wu Juanjuan , Wu Qiuhua , Wang Chun , Wang Zhi
Published: July 2017

A three‐dimensional graphene was synthesized through a hydrothermal reaction of graphene oxide with phytic acid. The microstructure and morphology of the phytic acid induced three‐dimensional graphene were investigated by nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherms, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. With a large surface area and three‐dimensional structure, the graphene was used as the solid‐phase extraction adsorbent for the extraction of phthalate esters from bottled water and sports beverage samples before high‐performance liquid chromatographic analysis. The results indicated that the graphene was efficient for the solid‐phase extraction of phthalate esters. The limits of detection (S/N = 3) of the method for the analytes were 0.02–0.03 ng/mL for the water samples and 0.03–0.15 ng/mL for the sports beverage sample. The limits of quantitation (S/N = 9) for the analytes were 0.06–0.09 ng/mL for water samples and 0.09–0.45 ng/mL for sports beverage sample. The calibration curves for the phthalate esters by the method had a good linearity from 0.1 to 80.0 ng/mL with correlation coefficients larger than 0.9997. The recoveries of the analytes for the method fell in the range of 86.7–116.2% with the relative standard deviations between 1.5 and 6.8%.
Salivary duct stenosis: Short‐term symptom outcomes after sialendoscopy‐assisted salivary duct surgery
Authors: Delagnes Elise A. , Zheng Melissa , Aubin‐Pouliot Annick , Chang Jolie L. , Ryan William R.
Published: July 2017

Objectives

To prospectively assess short‐term symptom change after sialendoscopy‐assisted salivary duct surgery (SASDS) for salivary duct stenosis.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Methods

Patients with obstructive sialadenitis from duct stenosis completed the 20‐item Chronic Obstructive Sialadenitis Symptoms (COSS) Questionnaire (scored 0–100) prior to SASDS and 3 months postoperatively.

Results

Thirty glands in 19 patients with endoscopically confirmed salivary duct stenosis showed overall symptom improvement, with a mean COSS score reduction of 12.9 points (standard deviation [SD] 13.1) to a mean postoperative score of 25.1 (range 0–75.5) (P < 0.001) with six (20%) glands (5 patients) achieving complete symptom resolution. Symptoms improved significantly for parotid glands (n = 20) by 16.6 points (SD 15.9) (P < 0.0001). For distal duct stenoses (n = 25), significant symptom improvement was seen in cases treated with dilation only (n = 17; partial stenoses) with a mean 20.6 point COSS reduction (SD 19.0) (P < 0.0005) and in cases treated with sialodochoplasty (n = 5; 4 complete, 1 partial stenosis) with a mean 13.8 point reduction (SD 4.7) (P < 0.005). Symptom scores did not improve after SASDS in proximal stenoses (n = 3) and distal stenoses cases not amenable to treatment (n = 3).

Conclusion

SASDS for salivary duct stenosis often can improve obstructive salivary symptoms; however, many patients report persistent symptoms after surgery. Partial duct stenoses or distal duct stenoses are associated with the greatest improvements in COSS scores after SASDS.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 127:2770–2776, 2017
Effect of psychosocial distress on outcome for head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiation
Authors: Chen Allen M. , Hsu Sophia , Felix Care , Garst Jordan , Yoshizaki Taeko
Published: July 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

To determine the impact of pretreatment psychosocial distress on compliance to radiation therapy (RT) and clinical outcomes for patients with head and neck cancer

Study Design

Self‐reported responses to the mood and anxiety domains of the University of Washington Quality of Life instrument were reviewed among 133 patients with newly diagnosed head and neck cancer prior to initiating RT.

Methods

Varying definitions were used (total number of unexpectedly missed RT days, >5 days continuous interruption of RT outside of weekends, >10 days continuous interruption of RT, and failure to complete prescribed course of RT) to analyze the effect of psychosocial disruption on compliance. Survival was determined using the Kaplan‐Meier method.

Results

The prevalence of pretreatment depression and anxiety was 23% and 47%, respectively. Continuous RT breaks >5 days occurred in 46%, 33%, 10%, 9%, and 0% of patients whose mood was rated as “extremely depressed,” “somewhat depressed,” “neither in a good mood or depressed,” “generally good,” and “excellent,” respectively (P = .0016). The corresponding proportion of patients who did not complete their planned RT was 23%, 11%, 5%, and 3%, and 0%, respectively (P = .043). The 2‐year overall survival of patients who were “extremely depressed” or “somewhat depressed” at baseline was 71% versus 86% for all others (P = .026). Depression was independently associated with decreased overall survival on logistical regression analysis.

Conclusions

Pretreatment depression predicted for decreased RT compliance and inferior survival for head and neck cancer. Additional research to overcome potential barriers to treatment in this setting may be warranted.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:641–645, 2018
Adjustable thermoplastic oral appliance versus positive airway pressure for obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Banhiran Wish , Assanasen Paraya , Nopmaneejumrudlers Cherdchai , Nujchanart Nongyoaw , Srechareon Wimontip , Chongkolwatana Cheerasook , Metheetrairut Choakchai
Published: July 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

To compare outcomes of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and the adjustable thermoplastic mandibular advancement splint (AT‐MAS) for obstructive sleep apnea treatment.

Study Design

Randomized crossover, noninferiority, tertiary center setting.

Methods

Fifty patients with a mean age of 49.5 ± 10.6 years were enrolled. Inclusion criteria were age ≥18 years, apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) ≥5 events/hour, and oxygen saturation ≥70%. Exclusion criteria were temporomandibular joint disorders, severe periodontitis, inadequate teeth, and unstable medical diseases. Treatment intolerance was considered a failure. Two‐week periods without treatment were followed by questionnaires and randomization into two groups: CPAP/AT‐MAS (25) and AT‐MAS/CPAP (25). After 6 weeks of intervention, questionnaires and home WatchPAT monitoring were performed. Following each 2‐week washout period, patients crossed over to the other treatment followed by similar procedures. Primary outcomes involved the scores from the Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire (FOSQ). Secondary outcomes were AHI, side effects, and treatment adherence.

Results

Seven patients withdrew from this study: five (AT‐MAS intolerance) and two (lost follow‐up). There was no significant difference among FOSQ scores, particularly on global scores, between both treatments (0.57, 95% confidential interval of difference: −0.15 to 1.29). Mean AHI decreased from pretreatment 39.2 ± 2.53 to 2.56 ± 0.49 and 12.92 ± 2.05 events/hour while using CPAP and the AT‐MAS, respectively (P < .05). Most common side effects of CPAP were dry throat and inconvenience to carry, whereas those of the AT‐MAS were jaw pain and excessive salivation.

Conclusions

Both devices improved short‐term quality of life similarly; however, the AT‐MAS was not as efficacious as CPAP on resolving sleep‐test parameters. The AT‐MAS might be considered only a temporary treatment alternative.

Level of Evidence

1b. Laryngoscope, 128:516–522, 2018
Free water improves detection of changes in the substantia nigra in parkinsonism: A multisite study
Authors: Ofori Edward , Krismer Florian , Burciu Roxana G. , Pasternak Ofer , McCracken Johanna L. , Lewis Mechelle M. , Du Guangwei , McFarland Nikolaus R. , Okun Michael S. , Poewe Werner , Mueller Christoph , Gizewski Elke R. , Schocke Michael , Kremser Christian , Li Hong , Huang Xuemei , Seppi Klaus , Vaillancourt David E.
Published: July 2017

Background

Imaging markers that are sensitive to parkinsonism across multiple sites are critically needed for clinical trials. The objective of this study was to evaluate changes in the substantia nigra using single‐ and bi‐tensor models of diffusion magnetic resonance imaging in PD, MSA, and PSP.

Methods

The study cohort (n = 425) included 107 healthy controls and 184 PD, 63 MSA, and 71 PSP patients from 3 movement disorder centers. Bi‐tensor free water, free‐water‐corrected fractional anisotropy, free‐water‐corrected mean diffusivity, single‐tensor fractional anisotropy, and single‐tensor mean diffusivity were computed for the anterior and posterior substantia nigra. Correlations were computed between diffusion MRI measures and clinical measures.

Results

In the posterior substantia nigra, free water was greater for PSP than MSA and PD patients and controls. PD and MSA both had greater free water than controls. Free‐water‐corrected fractional anisotropy values were greater for PSP patents than for controls and PD patients. PSP and MSA patient single‐tensor mean diffusivity values were greater than controls, and single‐tensor fractional anisotropy values were lower for PSP patients than for healthy controls. The parkinsonism effect size for free water was 0.145 in the posterior substantia nigra and 0.072 for single‐tensor mean diffusivity. The direction of correlations between single‐tensor mean diffusivity and free‐water values and clinical scores was similar at each site.

Conclusions

Free‐water values in the posterior substantia nigra provide a consistent pattern of findings across patients with PD, MSA, and PSP in a large cohort across 3 sites. Free water in the posterior substantia nigra relates to clinical measures of motor and cognitive symptoms in a large cohort of parkinsonism. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Existence and stability for a visco‐plastic material with a fractional constitutive equation
Authors: Fabrizio M. , Lazzari B. , Nibbi R.
Published: July 2017

The well posedness of the evolutive problem for visco‐plastic materials represented by two different fractional constitutive equations is proved. We show that, for these materials, we can observe permanent deformations. So that, as it is usual in plasticity, when the stress goes to zero, then the strain assumes a constant nonzero behavior. Moreover, we prove the compatibility of our models with the classical laws of thermodynamics. For the second model, described through a fractional derivative with an exponential kernel, we obtain the exponential decay of the solutions by means of the semigroup theory.
Predicting IDH mutation status in grade II gliomas using amide proton transfer‐weighted (APTw) MRI
Authors: Jiang Shanshan , Zou Tianyu , Eberhart Charles G. , Villalobos Maria A.V. , Heo Hye‐Young , Zhang Yi , Wang Yu , Wang Xianlong , Yu Hao , Du Yongxing , van Zijl Peter C.M. , Wen Zhibo , Zhou Jinyuan
Published: July 2017

Purpose

To assess the amide proton transfer‐weighted (APTw) MRI features of isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)‐wildtype and IDH‐mutant grade II gliomas and to test the hypothesis that the APTw signal is a surrogate imaging marker for identifying IDH mutation status preoperatively.

Methods

Twenty‐seven patients with pathologically confirmed low‐grade glioma, who were previously scanned at 3T, were retrospectively analyzed. The Mann‐Whitney test was used to evaluate relationships between APTw intensities for IDH‐mutant and IDH‐wildtype groups, and receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to assess the diagnostic performance of APTw.

Results

Based on histopathology and molecular analysis, seven cases were diagnosed as IDH‐wildtype grade II gliomas and 20 cases as IDH‐mutant grade II gliomas. The maximum and minimum APTw values, based on multiple regions of interest, as well as the whole‐tumor histogram‐based mean and 50th percentile APTw values, were significantly higher in the IDH‐wildtype gliomas than in the IDH‐mutant groups. This corresponded to the areas under the ROC curves of 0.89, 0.76, 0.75, and 0.75, respectively, for the prediction of the IDH mutation status.

Conclusion

IDH‐wildtype lesions typically were associated with relatively high APTw signal intensities as compared with IDH‐mutant lesions. The APTw signal could be a valuable imaging biomarker by which to identify IDH1 mutation status in grade II gliomas. Magn Reson Med 78:1100–1109, 2017. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Partial Fourier techniques in single‐shot cross‐term spatiotemporal encoded MRI
Authors: Zhang Zhiyong , Frydman Lucio
Published: July 2017

Purpose

Cross‐term spatiotemporal encoding (xSPEN) is a single‐shot approach with exceptional immunity to field heterogeneities, the images of which faithfully deliver 2D spatial distributions without requiring a priori information or using postacquisition corrections. xSPEN, however, suffers from signal‐to‐noise ratio penalties due to its non‐Fourier nature and due to diffusion losses—especially when seeking high resolution. This study explores partial Fourier transform approaches that, acting along either the readout or the spatiotemporally encoded dimensions, reduce these penalties.

Methods

xSPEN uses an orthogonal (e.g., z) gradient to read, in direct space, the low‐bandwidth (e.g., y) dimension. This substantially changes the nature of partial Fourier acquisitions vis‐à‐vis conventional imaging counterparts. A suitable theoretical analysis is derived to implement these procedures, along either the spatiotemporally or readout axes.

Results

Partial Fourier single‐shot xSPEN images were recorded on preclinical and human scanners. Owing to their reduction in the experiments’ acquisition times, this approach provided substantial sensitivity gains vis‐à‐vis previous implementations for a given targeted in‐plane resolution. The physical origins of these gains are explained.

Conclusion

Partial Fourier approaches, particularly when implemented along the low‐bandwidth spatiotemporal dimension, provide several‐fold sensitivity advantages at minimal costs to the execution and processing of the single‐shot experiments. Magn Reson Med 79:1506–1514, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Spinal cord imaging using averaged magnetization inversion recovery acquisitions
Authors: Weigel Matthias , Bieri Oliver
Published: July 2017

Purpose

To establish a novel approach for fast high‐resolution spinal cord (SC) imaging using averaged magnetization inversion recovery acquisitions (AMIRA).

Methods

The AMIRA concept is based on an inversion recovery (IR) prepared, segmented, and time‐limited cine balanced steady state free precession sequence. Typically, for the fastest SC imaging without any signal averaging, eight consecutive images in time with an in‐plane resolution of 0.67 × 0.67 mm2 and 6 mm to 8 mm slice thickness are acquired in 51 s. AMIRA does not require parallel acquisition techniques.

Results

AMIRA measures eight images of remarkable tissue contrast variation between spinal cord gray (GM) and white matter (WM) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Following the AMIRA concept, averaging the first IR contrast images not only improves the signal‐to‐noise ratio but also offers a surprising enhancement of the contrast‐to‐noise ratio between GM and WM, whereas averaging the last images considerably improves the contrast‐to‐noise ratio between WM and CSF. These observations are supported by quantitative data.

Conclusion

The AMIRA concept provides 2D spinal cord imaging with multiple tissue contrasts and enhanced contrast‐to‐noise ratios with a typical 0.67 × 0.67 mm2 in‐plane resolution and a slice thickness between 4 mm and 8 mm acquired in only 1 to 2 min per slice. Magn Reson Med 79:1870–1881, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Performance analysis of the T‐DOC® air‐charged catheters: An alternate technology for urodynamics
Authors: Couri Bruna M. , Bitzos Stephanie , Bhardwaj Deepak , Lockhart Emily , Yue Andy , Goping Ing
Published: July 2017

Aims

Urodynamics (UDS) is widely used for the diagnosis of lower urinary tract dysfunction. Air‐Charged catheters (ACC), one of the newer technologies for UDS pressure recording, has been adopted in growing numbers around the world for the past 15 years. Currently, there is a lack of published studies characterizing specific performance of the ACC. Since linearity, hysteresis, pressure drift, and frequency response are important components in characterizing accuracy for catheter‐manometer systems; this study aimed to assess these four aspects in ACC.

Methods

A total of 180 T‐DOC® ACC were used in three different laboratory settings to assess pressure linearity and hysteresis (15 dual‐sensor vesical and urethral and 30 single‐sensor abdominal), pressure drift over 2 h (115 single‐sensor), and frequency response (20 single‐sensor). Data are presented as mean ± standard deviation.

Results

ACC showed linearity of 0.99 ± 0.01, 0.99 ± 0.01, and 1.01 ± 0.01; and hysteresis of 0.57 ± 0.3%, 0.76 ± 0.48%, and 1 ± 0.89% for the abdominal, vesical, and urethral sensors, respectively. A pressure drift of 2.2 ± 1.4% at 1 h and 4.4 ± 2.5% at 2 h were observed when compared to baseline pressures. The catheters did not show any amplification factor during the sweep from 1 to 30 Hz, and recorded signals up to 5 Hz attenuating higher frequency signals.

Conclusions

In this study the T‐DOC® ACC showed a linear performance with minimal hysteresis associated with acceptable pressure drift, and adequate frequency response to capture clinically relevant pressures. The accurate results observed in this study suggest that these catheters are technically suitable to be used as a measuring instrument for UDS.
Synthesis, characterization, and gas permeation properties of adamantane‐containing polymers of intrinsic microporosity
Authors: Shrimant Bharat , Shaligram Sayali V. , Kharul Ulhas K. , Wadgaonkar Prakash P.
Published: July 2017

A new bis(catechol) monomer, namely, 4,4′‐((1r,3r)‐adamantane‐2,2‐diyl)bis(benzene‐1,2diol) (THADM) was synthesized by condensation of 2‐adamantanone with veratrole followed by demethylation of the formed (1r,3r)‐2,2‐bis(3,4 dimethoxyphenyl)adamantane. Polycondensation of THADM and various compositions of THADM and 5,5,6′,6′‐tetrahydroxy‐3,3,3′,3′‐tetramethylspirobisindane was performed with 2,3,5,6‐tetrafluoroterephthalonitrile (TFTPN) to obtain the homopolymer and copolymers. These polymers demonstrated good solubility in common organic solvents such as dichloromethane, chloroform, and tetrahydrofuran and could be cast into tough films from their chloroform solutions. GPC analysis revealed that number average molecular weights of polymers were in the range 48,100–61,700 g mol−1, suggesting the formation of reasonably high molecular weight polymers. They possessed intrinsic microporosity with Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) surface area in the range 703–741 m2 g−1. Thermogravimetric analysis of polymers indicated that 10% weight loss temperature was in the range 513–518 °C demonstrating their excellent thermal stability. THADM‐based polymer of intrinsic microporosity (PIM) showed P(CO2) = 1080, P(O2) = 232 and appreciable selectivity [α(CO2/CH4) = 22.6, α(CO2/N2) = 26.7, and α(O2/N2)= 5.7]. The gas permeability measurements revealed that with increase in the content of adamantane units in PIMs, selectivity increased and permeability decreased, following the trade‐off relationship. The gas separation properties of PIMs containing adamantane units were located close to 2008 Robeson upper bound for gas pairs such as CO2/CH4, CO2/N2, H2/N2, and O2/N2. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 16–24
CF‐related diabetes: Containing the metabolic miscreant of cystic fibrosis
Authors: Moheet Amir , Moran Antoinette
Published: July 2017

Cystic fibrosis‐related diabetes (CFRD) is associated with both an increase in morbidity and mortality in people with cystic fibrosis (CF). With increased screening and improved life expectancy of people with CF, the prevalence of CFRD is expected to rise further. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms causing glucose intolerance and diabetes in patients with CF are not well understood but both functional and structural abnormalities in islet cells are likely to have key roles. Insulin therapy improves health outcomes in patients with CF. Future research is needed to better understand the mechanisms underlying the development of CFRD and to develop new screening and treatment strategies to minimize the detrimental impact of CFRD on health outcomes in people with CF.
Assessing the spatial distribution of Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) eggs in open‐field tomato cultivation through geostatistical analysis
Authors: Martins Júlio C , Picanço Marcelo C , Silva Ricardo S , Gonring Alfredo HR , Galdino Tarcísio VS , Guedes Raul NC
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND

The spatial distribution of insects is due to the interaction between individuals and the environment. Knowledge about the within‐field pattern of spatial distribution of a pest is critical to planning control tactics, developing efficient sampling plans, and predicting pest damage. The leaf miner Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) is the main pest of tomato crops in several regions of the world. Despite the importance of this pest, the pattern of spatial distribution of T. absoluta on open‐field tomato cultivation remains unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize the spatial distribution of T. absoluta in 22 commercial open‐field tomato cultivations with plants at the three phenological development stages by using geostatistical analysis.

RESULTS

Geostatistical analysis revealed that there was strong evidence for spatially dependent (aggregated) T. absoluta eggs in 19 of the 22 sample tomato cultivations. The maps that were obtained demonstrated the aggregated structure of egg densities at the edges of the crops. Further, T. absoluta was found to accomplish egg dispersal along the rows more frequently than it does between rows.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that the greatest egg densities of T. absoluta occur at the edges of tomato crops. These results are discussed in relation to the behavior of T. absoluta distribution within fields and in terms of their implications for improved sampling guidelines and precision targeting control methods that are essential for effective pest monitoring and management. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Ho‐doped SrBi2Nb2O9 multifunctional ceramics with bright green emission and good electrical properties
Authors: Yu Lei , Hao Jigong , Xu Zhijun , Li Wei , Chu Ruiqing
Published: July 2017

Ho3+‐doped SrBi2Nb2O9 multifunctional ferroelectric ceramics with bright green light emission and good electrical properties were fabricated in this work. Under blue light excitation, samples showed bright green light with two typical emission bands: a strong green emission centered at 545 nm corresponding to the intra f‐f transition from the excited 5S2 to the ground state 5I8 and a relatively weak red emission located 653 nm induced by the 5F5 → 5I8 transition of Ho3+. Due to the concentration quenching effect, the intensity of emission was strongly dependent on the doping concentration. Furthermore, the electrical properties have improved by Ho3+ doping. At x = 0.004, samples exhibit optimal electrical properties with high Curie temperature (Tc = 441 °C) and large 2Pr and d33 values (2Pr = 15.54 µC cm−2, d33 = 19 pC/N). These results demonstrate that the SBN‐xHo ceramics possess excellent multifunctional properties to achieve a variety of applications.
Comparison of dimensionally split and multi‐dimensional atmospheric transport schemes for long time steps
Authors: Chen Yumeng , Weller Hilary , Pring Stephen , Shaw James
Published: July 2017

Dimensionally split advection schemes are attractive for atmospheric modelling due to their efficiency and accuracy in each spatial dimension. Accurate long time steps can be achieved without significant cost using the flux‐form semi‐Lagrangian technique. The dimensionally split scheme used in this paper is constructed from the one‐dimensional Piecewise Parabolic Method and extended to two dimensions using COSMIC splitting. The dimensionally split scheme is compared with a genuinely multi‐dimensional, method‐of‐lines scheme which, with implicit time‐stepping, is stable for Courant numbers significantly larger than 1.

Two‐dimensional advection test cases on Cartesian planes are proposed which avoid the complexities of a spherical domain or multi‐panel meshes. These are solid‐body rotation, horizontal advection over orography and deformational flow. The test cases use distorted non‐orthogonal meshes either to represent sloping terrain or to mimic the distortions near cubed‐sphere edges.

Mesh distortions are expected to accentuate the errors associated with dimension splitting, however the accuracy of the dimensionally split scheme decreases only a little in the presence of mesh distortions. The dimensionally split scheme also loses some accuracy when long time steps are used. The multi‐dimensional scheme is almost entirely insensitive to mesh distortions and asymptotes to second‐order accuracy at high resolution. As is expected for implicit time‐stepping, phase errors occur when using long time steps but the spatially well‐resolved features are advected at the correct speed and the multi‐dimensional scheme is always stable.

A naive estimate of computational cost (number of multiplies) reveals that the implicit scheme is the most expensive, particularly for large Courant numbers. If the multi‐dimensional scheme is used instead with explicit time‐stepping, the Courant number is restricted to less than 1, the accuracy is maintained, and the cost becomes similar to the dimensionally split scheme.
Numerical methods for the inverse problem of density functional theory
Authors: Jensen Daniel S. , Wasserman Adam
Published: July 2017

The inverse problem of Kohn–Sham density functional theory (DFT) is often solved in an effort to benchmark and design approximate exchange‐correlation potentials. The forward and inverse problems of DFT rely on the same equations but the numerical methods for solving each problem are substantially different. We examine both problems in this tutorial with a special emphasis on the algorithms and error analysis needed for solving the inverse problem. Two inversion methods based on partial differential equation constrained optimization and constrained variational ideas are introduced. We compare and contrast several different inversion methods applied to one‐dimensional finite and periodic model systems.
Efficacy and Initial Safety Profile of CXCL12 Treatment in a Rodent Model of Urinary Sphincter Deficiency
Authors: Koudy Williams J. , Dean Ashley , Lankford Shannon , Andersson Karl-Erik
Published: July 2017

Disappointing results of skeletal muscle precursor cell (skMPC) therapy for women with intrinsic urinary sphincter deficiency (ISD) associated urinary incontinence has increased interest in alternative sphincter regenerative approaches. This study was to measure the safety and efficacy of the cell homing chemokine CXCL12 versus skMPCs in a rat model of ISD. Thirty-six adult female Sprague Dawley rats were divided into 6 treatment (Tx) conditions: (a) no ISD/noTx [Control]; (b) ISD/noTx; (c) ISD + skMPCs; (d) ISD + 3.5 mg CXCL12; (e) ISD + 7mg CXCL12; and (f) ISD + 14 mg CXCL12. Tx's were injected directly into the sphincter complex 30 days post ISD and rats euthanized 30 days post Tx. Blood samples for measurements of kidney and liver function, white and red blood cell counts, were taken at baseline and at euthanasia. Leak point pressures (LPP) were measured prior to, and sphincter collagen/muscle content measured after, euthanasia. There were no effects of treatments on white or red/white blood cell counts, kidney/liver function tests or histopathology of the urinary sphincter complex or surrounding tissues. ISD lowered LPP 35% and sphincter muscle content by 17% versus control rats. CXCL12, but not skMPC injections, restored both LPP to control values in a dose-dependent fashion. Both skMPCs and CXCL12 restored sphincter muscle content to control values. This chemokine approach may represent a novel therapeutic option for ISD and appears, at least short-term, to produce little clinical or tissue pathology.
Energy‐Efficient Oil–Water Separation of Biomimetic Copper Membrane with Multiscale Hierarchical Dendritic Structures
Authors: Han Zhiwu , Li Bo , Mu Zhengzhi , Niu Shichao , Zhang Junqiu , Ren Luquan
Published: July 2017

Membrane‐based materials with special surface wettability have been applied widely for the treatment of increasing industrial oily waste water, as well as frequent oil spill accidents. However, traditional technologies are energy‐intensive and limited, either by fouling or by the inability of a single membrane to separate all types of oil–water mixtures. Herein, a biomimetic monolayer copper membrane (BMCM), composed of multiscale hierarchical dendritic structures, is cleverly designed and successfully fabricated on steel mesh substrate. It not only possesses the ability of energy‐efficient oil–water separation but also excellent self‐recovery anti‐oil‐fouling properties (<150 s). The BMCM even keeps high separation efficiency (>93%) after ten‐time cycling tests. More importantly, it retains efficient oil–water separation capacity for five different oils. In fact, these advanced features are benefited by the synergistic effect of chemical compositions and physical structures, which is inspired by the typical nonwetting strategy of butterfly wing scales. The findings in this work may inspire a facile but effective strategy for repeatable and antipollution oil–water separation, which is more suitable for various applications under practical conditions, such as wastewater treatment, fuel purification, separation of commercially relevant oily water, and so forth.
Drug‐Loaded Multifunctional Nanoparticles Targeted to the Endocardial Layer of the Injured Heart Modulate Hypertrophic Signaling
Authors: Ferreira Mónica P. A. , Ranjan Sanjeev , Kinnunen Sini , Correia Alexandra , Talman Virpi , Mäkilä Ermei , Barrios‐Lopez Brianda , Kemell Marianna , Balasubramanian Vimalkumar , Salonen Jarno , Hirvonen Jouni , Ruskoaho Heikki , Airaksinen Anu J. , Santos Hélder A.
Published: July 2017

Ischemic heart disease is the leading cause of death globally. Severe myocardial ischemia results in a massive loss of myocytes and acute myocardial infarction, the endocardium being the most vulnerable region. At present, current therapeutic lines only ameliorate modestly the quality of life of these patients. Here, an engineered nanocarrier is reported for targeted drug delivery into the endocardial layer of the left ventricle for cardiac repair. Biodegradable porous silicon (PSi) nanoparticles are functionalized with atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), which is known to be expressed predominantly in the endocardium of the failing heart. The ANP–PSi nanoparticles exhibit improved colloidal stability and enhanced cellular interactions with cardiomyocytes and non‐myocytes with minimal toxicity. After confirmation of good retention of the radioisotope 111‐Indium in relevant physiological buffers over 4 h, in vivo single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT/CT) imaging and autoradiography demonstrate increased accumulation of ANP–PSi nanoparticles in the ischemic heart, particularly in the endocardial layer of the left ventricle. Moreover, ANP–PSi nanoparticles loaded with a novel cardioprotective small molecule attenuate hypertrophic signaling in the endocardium, demonstrating cardioprotective potential. These results provide unique insights into the development of nanotherapies targeted to the injured region of the myocardium.
Management of the Open Abdomen after Liver Transplantation
Authors: Hobeika Christian , Allard Marc‐Antoine , Bucur Petru‐Octav , Naili Salima , Sa Cunha Antonio , Cherqui Daniel , Castaing Denis , Adam René , Vibert Eric
Published: July 2017

Introduction

The optimal management of the open abdomen (OA) after liver transplantation (LT) is unclear. The negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has been shown to be safe and can increase the chance for early fascial closure in trauma or septic patients. However, little data are available on the specific setting of LT. We aimed to report our experience of OA after LT, marked by the recent use of NPWT.

Methods

All patients with postponed wall closure after LT, from 2002 to 2014, in a single institution were included and retrospectively analyzed. Our management of OA after LT has shifted from skin‐only closure (SOC) followed by abdominal wall reconstruction at a distance to the use of NPWT with early fascial closure.

Results

Of the 1559 LTs performed during the study period, immediate abdominal wall closure at the end of transplantation could not be achieved in 46 (2.9%) patients. Of them, SOC was performed in 22 (47.8%) patients, whereas vacuum‐assisted closure (VAC) therapy was used in 24 (52.1%) patients. The comprehensive complication indexes (CCI) were similar [CCI: 66 (0–100) in the SOC group vs. 56 (0–100) in the VAC group; p = 0.55]. No evisceration or fistula occurred in both groups. One (4.2%) postoperative bleeding case was reported in the VAC group. Early fascial closure was achieved within a median of 5.5 days (1–12) for the 24 patients (100%) of the VAC group. In four of them, a biological mesh was necessary. Only nine patients (52.9%) of the survivors in the SOC group underwent abdominal reconstruction.

Conclusion

The NPWT in patients with OA after LT enables early fascial closure with limited morbidity provided a specific attention is given to the risk of bleeding. These results support the use of NPWT as the first option in OA patients after LT.
Microstructure and Property Modifications of Cold Rolled IF Steel by Local Laser Annealing
Authors: Hallberg Håkan , Adamski Frédéric , Baïz Sarah , Castelnau Olivier
Published: July 2017

Laser annealing experiments are performed on cold rolled IF steel whereby highly localized microstructure and property modification are achieved. The microstructure is seen to develop by strongly heterogeneous recrystallization to provide steep gradients, across the submillimeter scale, of grain size and crystallographic texture. Hardness mapping by microindentation is used to reveal the corresponding gradients in macroscopic properties. A 2D level set model of the microstructure development is established as a tool to further optimize the method and to investigate, for example, the development of grain size variations due to the strong and transient thermal gradient. Particular focus is given to the evolution of the beneficial γ-fiber texture during laser annealing. The simulations indicate that the influence of selective growth based on anisotropic grain boundary properties only has a minor effect on texture evolution compared to heterogeneous stored energy, temperature variations, and nucleation conditions. It is also shown that although the α-fiber has an initial frequency advantage, the higher probability of γ-nucleation, in combination with a higher stored energy driving force in this fiber, promotes a stronger presence of the γ-fiber as also observed in experiments.
Characterization, drug loading and antibacterial activity of nanohydroxyapatite/polycaprolactone (nHA/PCL) electrospun membrane
Authors: Hassan Mohd Izzat , Sultana Naznin
Published: July 2017

Considering the important factor of bioactive nanohydoxyapatite (nHA) to enhance osteoconductivity or bone-bonding capacity, nHA was incorporated into an electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL) membrane using electrospinning techniques. The viscosity of the PCL and nHA/PCL with different concentrations of nHA was measured and the morphology of the electrospun membranes was compared using a field emission scanning electron microscopy. The water contact angle of the nanofiber determined the wettability of the membranes of different concentrations. The surface roughness of the electrospun nanofibers fabricated from pure PCL and nHA/PCL was determined and compared using atomic force microscopy. Attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to study the chemical bonding of the composite electrospun nanofibers. Beadless nanofibers were achieved after the incorporation of nHA with a diameter of 200–700 nm. Results showed that the fiber diameter and the surface roughness of electrospun nanofibers were significantly increased after the incorporation of nHA. In contrast, the water contact angle (132° ± 3.5°) was reduced for PCL membrane after addition of 10% (w/w) nHA (112° ± 3.0°). Ultimate tensile strengths of PCL membrane and 10% (w/w) nHA/PCL membrane were 25.02 ± 2.3 and 18.5 ± 4.4 MPa. A model drug tetracycline hydrochloride was successfully loaded in the membrane and the membrane demonstrated good antibacterial effects against the growth of bacteria by showing inhibition zone for E. coli (2.53 ± 0.06 cm) and B. cereus (2.87 ± 0.06 cm).
Computational modelling of the flow and heat transfer in dimpled channels
Authors: Amsha K. Abo , Craft T.J. , Iacovides H.
Published: July 2017

The flow and heat transfer characteristics over a single dimple and an array of staggered dimples have been investigated using the Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) approach. The objective is to determine how reliably RANS models can predict this type of complex cooling flows. Three classes of low-Reynolds number RANS models have been employed to represent the turbulence. These included a linear Eddy Viscosity Model (EVM), a Non-Linear Model (NLEVM) and a Reynolds Stress transport Model (RSM). Variants of the k-ε model have been used to represent the first two categories. Steady and time-dependent simulations have been carried out at a bulk Reynolds number of around 5,000 with dimple print diameter to channel height ratios of D/H = 1.0, 2.0 and ratios of dimple depth to channel height of δ/H = 0.2, 0.4. The linear EVM and the RSM tested both produce symmetric circulations in the dimples, while the NLEVM produces an asymmetric pattern. The mean velocity profiles predicted numerically are generally in good agreement with the data. The main flow characteristics are reproduced by the RANS models, but some predictive deviations from available data point to the need for further investigations. All models report an overall enhancement in heat transfer levels when using dimples in comparison to those of a plane channel.
Rethinking International Legal Standards for the Protection of Migrant Workers: The Case for a “Core Rights” Approach
Authors: Ruhs Martin
Published: July 2017

The UN General Assembly decided in September 2016 that it would

start negotiations leading to an international conference and the adoption of a global compact for safe, orderly and regular migration in 2018. The agreement to move toward this comprehensive framework is a momentous one. It means that migration, like other areas of international relations, will be guided by a set of common principles and approaches.

Given the well-known and long-standing efforts of various high-income countries to prevent the development of a stronger and more effective global framework for the regulation of international migration, there are obvious reasons to be skeptical that the announced “Global Compact for Migration” will indeed bring about any major change. The ambition to achieve this “Global Compact” has, however, created a window of opportunity to rethink the current approach and debate alternative (or additional) mechanisms for protecting the rights of migrant workers.
The Evolution of Cattle Husbandry Practices in the Roman Period in Gallia Belgica and Western Germania Inferior
Authors: Pigière Fabienne
Published: July 2017

This article examines and compares the evolution of animal husbandry practices in severalcivitatesof Gallia Belgica and western Germania Inferior, as documented by archaeozoological data. It focuses on two neighbouringcivitates, those of the Nervii and the Tungri, its aim being to explore the factors that influenced diversity in husbandry practices. In general, it appears that cattle played an important role in the Early Roman animal economy of thesecivitates. There is evidence that large cattle were primarily bred for use as draught animals. At the same time, the intensive processing of cattle on professional butchery sites, and indications of cattle-related craft activities in urban environments, demonstrate that within the market economy animal exploitation was focused on cattle. Nevertheless, several aspects of animal husbandry practices exhibit geographical differences. Evidence of surplus production of pigs in the countryside of Gallia Belgica suggests that different kinds of agricultural specialization existed within the loess belt. There are also differences in the adoption of Roman agricultural innovations in terms of morphological changes in cattle.
New data on Jurassic Sinoalidae from northeastern China (Insecta, Hemiptera)
Authors: Chen Jun , Zheng Yan , Wei Guangjin , Wang Xiaoli
Published: July 2017

The Sinoalidae, as one of the three Mesozoic froghopper families, was recently recognized from the latest Middle–earliest Late Jurassic Daohugou Biota of northeastern China. We herein report some new materials from the same horizon and locality, providing some new insights on morphological diversity and evolution of this family.Shufania haninew genus new species indicates that the relative branching position of veins M and CuA of the forewing is highly variable within the Sinoalidae and not appropriate for family-level diagnosis. The venations of three reported sinoalid hind wings are conservative, likely due to its simplified topology and reduced terminal branches. Color patterns of hind wings are likely variable for different sinoalid froghoppers. However, considering that color pattern is easily weakened or even erased by diagenetic processes for imprint fossils, the morphological character is not reliable for distinguishing different sinoalid taxa. Additionally, our new material suggests that the number of lateral spines of the hind tibia can vary intra-individually for sinoalids, just as in some recent froghoppers.
The Effects of Government System Fractionalization on Satisfaction With Democracy
Authors: Christmann Pablo , Torcal Mariano
Published: July 2017

Consensual-pluralistic institutional features of representative democracies have traditionally been associated with satisfaction with democracy (SWD). However, more recent studies report contradictory results on the effects of some of these institutional determinants on SWD. This article confirms these puzzling findings by showing that electoral proportionality increases SWD while other pluralistic factors such as government fractionalization produce the opposite effect. We illustrate this duality of counteracting effects by expanding the number of cases under study to different regions of the world in a comprehensive time-series cross-sectional sample of 58 democracies between 1990 and 2012. In the second part of the paper, we are able to reconfirm these findings at the individual level by employing survey data from the Comparative Study of Electoral Systems.
Radiocarbon Dating of the Architectural Parts of the Middle Byzantine Monastery of Hosios Loukas, Boeotia, Greece
Authors: Facorellis Yorgos , Mourelatos Dionysis
Published: July 2017

The Monastery of Hosios Loukas is situated at an altitude of 430 m (38°23′43.12′′N, 22°44′48.22′′E) in the western foothills of Mount Helikon, near the village of Steiri, Boeotia, Greece. It is one of the most important monuments of Middle Byzantine art and architecture and has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Information varies concerning the construction date of the magnificent church to house the Hosios Loukas relics. Moreover, little is known about the time when the rest of the monastic complex was built. This paper aims to shed light on these chronological questions. For this purpose, 15 wood samples, originating from the outermost rings of the wooden timber preserved from the initial scaffolding of the church and its four supporting buttresses and another two from the wooden gate of the monastery, were radiocarbon (14C) dated using the conventional gas-counting technique. Our results show that the church was built in the beginning of the 11th century. The four buttresses were built in at least two phases, during the 15th through 19th centuries, and the monastery gate may be also attributed to the 19th century.
Laparoscopic instrument use in laryngeal surgery: transoral resection of a supraglottic haemangioma
Authors: Bannon R , Gohil R , Manickavasagam J
Published: July 2017

Background:

Adult laryngeal haemangiomas are rare vascular tumours that have been managed by a variety of surgical techniques.

Methods:

This paper describes a case of near-fatal acute airway obstruction secondary to such a lesion, followed by our approach to surgical resection using a laparoscopic bipolar tissue-sealing device.

Results:

This technique resulted in successful excision of the lesion, with no evidence of recurrence at one year of follow up.

Conclusion:

Laparoscopic bipolar instruments can be used for the resection of moderate to large laryngeal haemangiomas as an alternative to laser excision.