bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of an Amniotic Membrane-Collagen Dermal Substitute in the Management of Full-Thickness Skin Defects in a Pig
Authors: Kim Hyunji , Son Daegu , Choi Tae Hyun , Jung Samhyun , Kwon Sunyoung , Kim Junhyung , Han Kihwan
Published: January 2013

Background To minimize the inflammatory reaction and improve healing, a new modified dermal substitute composed of an atelocollagen, chondroitin-6-sulfate, and amniotic membrane (AM) was applied to full-thickness skin defects in a pig. Atelocollagen was extracted from bovine skin, and two modified dermal substitutes were generated according to the cross-linking type.

Methods The AM-collagen dermal substitutes were characterized and compared with currently used dermal substitutes in a pig skin defect model. There were five experimental groups: dehydrothermal (DHT) cross-linking atelocollagen with the AM on the top (AM-DHT), DHT and chemical cross-linking atelocollagen with the AM on the top (AM-DHT/chemical), Terudermis, Integra, and AlloDerm. After 3×3 cm full-thickness skin defects on the back of a pig were created, each dermal substitutes dermal substitutes was randomly grafted on the defects. Two weeks after grafting, autologous partial-thickness skin was over-grafted on the neodermis. The take rate of the dermal substitutes, skin, and histological sections were all assessed at 1, 2, and 4 weeks postoperatively.

Results More rapid healing and a higher take rate were evident in the AM-DHT and Terudermis groups. Histological examination revealed fewer inflammatory cells and more fibroblast hyperplasia in these two groups. Four weeks after surgery, the amount of newly formed collagen was significantly more appropriate in the AM-DHT group.

Conclusions These observations provide supporting evidence that a newly developed amniotic-collagen dermal substitute may inhibit inflammatory reactions and promote wound healing.
Reconstruction of Abdominal Wall of a Chronically Infected Postoperative Wound with a Rectus Abdominis Myofascial Splitting Flap
Authors: Bae Sung Kyu , Kang Seok Joo , Kim Jin Woo , Kim Young Hwan , Sun Hook
Published: January 2013

Background If a chronically infected abdominal wound develops, complications such as peritonitis and an abdominal wall defect could occur. This could prolong the patient's hospital stay and increase the possibility of re-operation or another infection as well. For this reason, a solution for infection control is necessary. In this study, surgery using a rectus abdominis muscle myofascial splitting flap was performed on an abdominal wall defect.

Methods From 2009 to 2012, 5 patients who underwent surgery due to ovarian rupture, cesarean section, or uterine myoma were chosen. In each case, during the first week after operation, the wound showed signs of infection. Surgery was chosen because the wounds did not resolve with dressing. Debridement was performed along the previous operation wound and dissection of the skin was performed to separate the skin and subcutaneous tissue from the attenuated rectus muscle and Scarpa's fascial layers. Once the anterior rectus sheath and muscle were adequately mobilized, the fascia and muscle flap were advanced medially so that the skin defect could be covered for reconstruction.

Results Upon 3-week follow-up after a rectus abdominis myofascial splitting flap operation, no major complication occurred. In addition, all of the patients showed satisfaction in terms of function and esthetics at 3 to 6 months post-surgery.

Conclusions Using a rectus abdominis myofascial splitting flap has many esthetic and functional benefits over previous methods of abdominal defect treatment, and notably, it enabled infection control by reconstruction using muscle.
Autologous Microvascular Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Healy Claragh , Ramakrishnan Venkat
Published: January 2013

Autologous microvascular breast reconstruction is widely accepted as a key component of breast cancer treatment. There are two basic donor sites; the anterior abdominal wall and the thigh/buttock region. Each of these regions provides for a number of flaps that are successfully utilised in breast reconstruction. Refinement of surgical technique and the drive towards minimising donor site morbidity whilst maximising flap vascularity in breast reconstruction has seen an evolution towards perforator based flap reconstructions, however myocutaneous flaps are still commonly practiced. We review herein the current methods of autologous microvascular breast reconstruction.
Lower Lip Reconstruction after Wide Excision of a Malignancy with Barrel-Shaped Excision or the Webster Modification of the Bernard Operation
Authors: Seo Hyung Joon , Bae Seong Hwan , Nam Su Bong , Choi Soo Jong , Kim Joo Hyoung , Lee Jae Woo , Bae Yong Chan
Published: January 2013

Background Because there are numerous methods for reconstruction of the lower lip, it is not easy to choose the optimal method. In choosing the surgical method for lower lip reconstruction, we obtained acceptable outcomes based on our treatment strategy, which included either a barrel-shaped excision or the Webster modification of the Bernard operation. We report on the surgical outcomes based on our treatment strategy.

Methods This study included 26 patients who underwent lower lip reconstructive surgery from September 1996 to September 2010. The operation was done using either a barrel-shaped excision or the Webster modification, considering the location of the defect, the size of the defect, and the amount of residual tissue on the lateral side of the vermilion after excision.

Results In our series, 3 patients underwent a single barrel-shaped excision, and nine patients underwent a double barrel-shaped excision. In addition, the unilateral Webster modification was performed on in 6 patients, and there were eight cases of bilateral Webster modification. All of the patients except one were satisfied with the postoperative shape of the lip. In one case both recurrence and dehiscence occurred. One patient had a good postoperative lip shape, but had difficulty wearing a denture, and also underwent commissuroplasty. Furthermore, there were two patients who complained of drooling, and 4 with paresthesia.

Conclusions A soft tissue defect resulting from wide excision of a lower lip malignancy can be successfully reconstructed using only one of two surgical methods: the barrel-shaped excision or the Webster modification of the Bernard operation.
Radiofrequency Ablation and Excision of Multiple Cutaneous Lesions in Neurofibromatosis Type 1
Authors: Kim Seong-Hun , Roh Si-Gyun , Lee Nae-Ho , Yang Kyung-Moo
Published: January 2013

Background Von Recklinghausen disease or neurofibromatosis type 1 is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder of chromosome 17q11.2. The most common characteristic findings of NF 1 include multiple and recurrent cutaneous neurofibromas associated with psychosocial distress.

Methods Sixteen patients (9 female, 7 male; average age, 31 years; range, 16 to 67 years) with multiple cutaneous neurofibromas between March 2010 and February 2012 were included in the study. All patients were treated with radiosurgical ablation and excision under general anesthesia.

Results All 16 patients were satisfied with the results, when questioned directly during the outpatient department follow-up. The only complaint from a few patients was minimal scarring, but acceptable results were obtained in the end.

Conclusions The radiofrequency procedure is almost bloodless and quick, creating a smaller necrotizing zone. Therefore, instead of employing the time consuming traditional surgery, such as laser therapy and electrosurgical excision, that produces uncertain results and can affect normal adjacent tissue, treatment of neurofibromas with radiofrequency ablation and excision can be an alternative choice of treatment for patients with a large number of neurofibromas.
A New Method for Creating a Definite Philtrum by the Flipping of an Orbicularis Oris Muscle Flap in a Patient with an Indistinct Philtrum
Authors: Choi Hyun Nam , Kim Sin Rak , Han Yea Sik
Published: January 2013

The philtrum plays a key role in the appearance of the upper lip and nostril sill. Therefore, construction of the philtrum is crucial for attaining a natural appearance of the upper lip. We used a flipping myoplasty of the orbicularis oris muscle on a patient with a flat philtrum in order to effectively reconstruct the philtral dimple and column. A 35-year-old female presented to our department with the complaint of a flat upper lip. A superficial layer of the orbicularis oris muscle on the median aspect of the upper lip was vertically incised and elevated to a thickness of 2 mm. Both sides of the elevated muscle flap were then folded to the lateral sides so that the border could be sutured onto the outer portion of the orbicularis oris muscle. The patient was observed for one year postoperatively. Her philtrum deepened by 1.25 mm, with the central angle of her Cupid's bow improving from a preoperative measurement of 146° to 128° postoperatively. In a patient with an indistinct philtrum, a flipping orbicularis oris myoplasty was performed to attain a definite philtral column and a philtral dimple. Natural upper lip movement was maintained, and an aesthetically and functionally satisfactory reconstruction was achieved.
NOVA-dependent regulation of cryptic NMD exons controls synaptic protein levels after seizure
Authors: Eom Taesun , Zhang Chaolin , Wang Huidong , Lay Kenneth , Fak John , Noebels Jeffrey L , Darnell Robert B
Published: January 2013

The neuronal RNA binding protein NOVA regulates splicing, shuttles to the cytoplasm, and co-localizes with target transcripts in dendrites, suggesting links between splicing and local translation. Here we identified >200 transcripts showing NOVA-dependent changes in abundance, but, surprisingly, HITS-CLIP revealed NOVA binds these RNAs in introns rather than 3′ UTRs. This led us to discover NOVA-regulated splicing of cryptic exons within these introns. These exons triggered nonsense mediated decay (NMD), as UPF1 and protein synthesis were required for NOVA's effect on RNA levels. Their regulation was dynamic and physiologically relevant. The NMD exons were regulated by seizures, which also induced changes in Nova subcellular localization and mediated large changes in synaptic proteins, including proteins implicated in familial epilepsy. Moreover, Nova haploinsufficient mice had spontaneous epilepsy. The data reveal a hidden means of dynamic RNA regulation linking electrical activity to splicing and protein output, and of mediating homeostatic excitation/inhibition balance in neurons.
Incantatio. Issue 2 - Full Book Review
Authors: Passalis Haralampos , Tsonkova Svetlana , Ryan William F. , Timotin Emanuela
Published: January 2013

James Alexander Kapaló, Text, Context and Performance. Gagauz Folk Religion in Discourse and Practice. Leiden-Boston: Brill, 2011, 352 pp. (Haralampos Passalis). Pp. 106-110 Т. А. Агапкина, А. Л. Топорков (ed.), Восточнославянские Заговоры: Аннотированный Библиографический Указазатель (East Slavic Charms: Annotated Bibliographical Index). Moscow: Пробел, 2011, 170 pp. (Svetlana Tsonkova). Pp. 110-111 T. A. Agapkina, Vostochnoslavianskie lechebnye zagovory v sravnitelâ€™nomosveshchenii. Siuzhetika i obraz mira (East Slavic Healing Spells in a Comparative Light: Plot Structure and Image of the World), Moscow: Indrik 2010. 823 pp. (William F. Ryan). Pp. 111-113 A. L. Toporkov, Russkie zagovory iz rukopisnykh istochnikov XVII â€“pervoi poloviny XIX v. (Russian Manuscript Charms from 17th to First Half of the 19th Century). Moscow: Indrik 2010. 830 pp. 14 illustrations (William F. Ryan). Pp. 114-115 J. Roper (ed.), Charms, Charmers and Charming. International Research on Verbal Magic. Palgrave Macmillan, 2009, 294 pp. (Emanuela Timotin). Pp. 115-117
Get Dr Clague. Dr John Clague as Collector of Manx Charms
Authors: Miller Stephen
Published: January 2013

Dr John Clague (1842–1908) was a medical practitioner in the Isle of Man as well as a folklore and folk song collector. His mother was a herbal healer as was Clague before commencing his medical studies. Clague’s posthumously published reminiscences in 1911 contain the largest collection of charms (13) published to date as well as details of his encounters with charmers and healers during his rounds. Published with facing pages of Manx Gaelic and English (the two languages of the Island in this period) the question arises as to which language the charms were originally collected in. Surviving is a manuscript notebook containing texts of six of the charms; two others are known in Manx from earlier church court records. Clague’s collecting does not exhaust the material for the Island. There is one other contemporary collector, namely Sophia Morrison, whose manuscript material remains inedited and unpublished. Other material that remains to be examined are the printed and manuscript collections of the Manx National Heritage Library, especially the Manx Museum Folk-Life Survey. It is hoped that all this material can be gathered together at some date in a charm catalogue allowing its use by the wider community of charm scholars.
From the power of words to the power of rhetoric: nonsense, pseudo-nonsense words, archaisms and artificially constructed compounds in Greek oral charms
Authors: Passalis Haralampos
Published: January 2013

Meaningless words, archaisms, glosses, neologisms as well as artificially constructed compounds often appear in charms. More specifi cally, the category of meaningless words (abracadabra, voces magicae, onomata Barbara, nonsense words, gibberish) has been considered as the most distinctive characteristic of verbal magic, and, as such, it has always constituted one of the most popular objects of study. Researchers have attempted to interpret the function of nonsignification, lack of meaning and referentiality in the inherent power of the sound of these words, in the special intonation of their performance, but also, in their implicative weight, namely in their connection to another type of referentiality, that of the so-called traditional referentiality, which connects these words to a wider context, whose power they evoke. However, most approaches to the special register of charms, with very few exceptions, have been based on texts of anterior periods, as well as on texts belonging to the written tradition of the genre. What happens, however, in the case of oral tradition, in the case, that is, of those charms that presuppose and require an oral performance and transmission? What is the frequency of occurrence of such words, what are the special characteristics of the register used in charms and in what ways does it differ from that of everyday speech? Furthermore, on the basis of which particular rules and criteria are these words formed and what function or purpose do they serve? These are the issues that the present study proposes to address, based on the examination of oral Greek charms, shifting its focus of attention from the alleged power of sound to the power of a rhetoric which accounts for the formation and explains the function of the specifi c register of oral charms.
Ivan the Terrible's Malady and Its Magical Cure
Authors: Ryan William F.
Published: January 2013

This paper discusses the testicular hydrocele which afflicted Tsar Ivan IV (Ivan the Terrible), Ivan’s alleged belief in witchcraft and employment of witches, the history of the Russian word kila, from its Greek origin to its employment as a Russian folk term for ‘a swelling, hernia’, and magic charms to cure it. From the evidence of two independent English manuscript dictionaries of Russian in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, the word kila in Old Russian texts of that period meant exclusively the swelling of the testicles caused by witchcraft. It is argued that Ivan would have known the word in that sense, believed that his condition was caused by witchcraft, and would have looked for a magical remedy. There are no recorded charms for this purpose dating from Ivan’s lifetime, but there are from the seventeenth century. In more modern occurrences of the word kila it seems mostly to have reverted to its previous non-specific sense of ‘swelling’ or ‘hernia’ – but Russian occult and medical websites show that the ‘hydrocele’ meaning survives as a folk term and that the sixteenth- and seventeenth-century association with witchcraft is also still well known.
Carcinogenic Agents
Authors: Pfau Wolfgang
Published: January 2013

The article contains sections titled:

1.

Introduction

2.

Carcinogenesis

3.

Genotoxic Mechanisms

3.1.

Metabolic Activation

3.2.

DNA Binding

3.3.

DNA Repair

3.4.

Molecular Targets in the Genome

3.4.1.

Oncogenes

3.4.2.

Tumor‐Suppressor Genes

4.

Nongenotoxic Mechanisms

4.1.

Tumor Promoters

4.2.

Hormones

4.3.

Peroxisome Proliferators

4.4.

Epigenetics

5.

Identification of Carcinogenic Agents

5.1.

Animals Tests (in Vivo)

5.1.1.

Short‐Term Assays

5.1.2.

Omics

5.2.

In Vitro Assays

5.3.

Modeling

5.4.

Epidemiological Studies

5.5.

Molecular Epidemiology

6.

Predisposing Factors

7.

Classes of Carcinogenic Agents

7.1.

N
‐Nitroso Compounds

7.2.

Benzene

7.3.

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons

7.4.

Nitroaromatic Compounds

7.5.

Aromatic Amines

7.6.

Halogenalkyls

7.7.

Aldehydes

7.8.

Oxygen Damage

7.9.

Alkylating Agents

7.10.

Metals

7.11.

Natural Compounds

7.12.

Hormones

7.13.

Mixtures

7.14.

Mineral Fibers

7.15.

Viruses and Other Biological Agents

7.16.

Nonionizing Radiation

7.17.

Ionizing Radiation

7.18.

Electromagnetic Fields

8.

Human Carcinogens

9.

Forms of Exposure

9.1.

Occupational Exposure

9.2.

Environmental Exposure

9.3.

Lifestyle

9.4.

Diet

9.5.

Drugs

9.6.

Exposure Levels in Developing Countries

9.7.

Safe Handling of Carcinogenic Agents
2‐Ethylhexanol
Authors: Bahrmann Helmut , Hahn Heinz‐Dieter , Mayer Dieter , Frey Guido D.
Published: January 2013

The article contains sections titled:1.Introduction2.Properties3.Industrial Production4.Uses5.Economic Aspects6.Toxicology
Polyamides
Authors: Herzog Ben , Kohan Melvin I. , Mestemacher Steve A. , Pagilagan Rolando U. , Redmond Kate
Published: January 2013

The article contains sections titled:1.Introduction2.Nomenclature3.General Considerations in Polyamidation3.1.Molecular Mass3.2.Equilibrium and Rate Constants3.3.Effects of Monomer Structure3.4.Amide Interchange3.5.Structure‐Property Considerations4.Other Polymerization Techniques4.1.Variants of Hydrolytic Polymerization4.2.Interfacial and Solution Polymerization4.3.Ionic Polymerization4.4.Solid‐Phase Polymerization5.Commercial Processes5.1.PA 465.2.PA 665.2.1.Batch Production5.2.2.Continuous Production5.3.Other AABB‐Polyamides5.4.PA 65.5.PA 115.6.PA 126.Properties6.1.Properties of Unmodified Polyamides6.2.Copolymerization6.3.Modification by Additives6.3.1.Filled and Reinforced Polyamides6.3.2.Blends and Alloys6.3.3.Flame‐Retardant Polyamides6.3.4.Conductive Polyamides6.3.5.Other Formulations7.Processing8.Uses9.Ecological Aspects and Toxicology9.1.Recycling9.2.Polyamide Monomers9.3.Other Aspects10.Economic Aspects
Soldering and Brazing
Authors: Schnee Daniel , Krappitz Harald
Published: January 2013

The article contains sections titled:1.Introduction2.Theory3.Soldering and Brazing Processes3.1.Soldering Bits and Blocks3.2.Soldering Baths (Dip Soldering)3.3.Wave Soldering3.4.Reflow Soldering3.5.Flame Soldering and Brazing3.6.Induction and Resistance Brazing3.7.Salt‐Bath Brazing3.8.Furnace Brazing4.Soldering and Brazing Materials4.1.Soft Solders4.2.Brazing Filler Metals5.Fluxes and Protective Atmospheres6.Materials of Construction Suitable for Soldering and Brazing7.Design and Strength Properties of Soldered and Brazed Joints8.Safety Aspects
Bulk Ceramic Composites Derived from a Preceramic Polysilazane with Alumina and Zirconia Fillers
Authors: Konegger Thomas , Liersch Antje , Gierl Christian , Scheffler Michael
Published: January 2013

Bulk composites for the production of green‐machinable, complex‐shaped ceramic parts with tailorable properties for applications under mechanical stress are fabricated by a novel combination of a poly(vinyl)silazane‐derived ceramic matrix with Al2O3 or ZrO2 fillers. Green‐machinable composites were produced by coating of the filler powders with the preceramic polymer, followed by subsequent warm‐pressing. The final ceramic materials are obtained by a thermal conversion process. A systematic variation of preceramic polymer content, pressure during warm‐compaction, or pyrolytic conversion temperature is used to identify the main factors responsible for differences in densification behavior, microstructure, composition, and mechanical properties. The procedure of composite powder preparation as well as the optimization of the subsequent warm‐pressing step are found to be decisive in the successful production of crack‐free bulk ceramic composites.
An Analytical Model of Reactive Diffusion for Transient Electronics
Authors: Li Rui , Cheng Huanyu , Su Yewang , Hwang Suk‐Won , Yin Lan , Tao Hu , Brenckle Mark A. , Kim Dae‐Hyeong , Omenetto Fiorenzo G. , Rogers John A. , Huang Yonggang
Published: January 2013

Transient electronics is a class of technology that involves components which physically disappear, in whole or in part, at prescribed rates and at programmed times. Enabled devices include medical monitors that fully resorb when implanted into the human body (“bio‐resorbable”) to avoid long‐term adverse effects, or environmental monitors that dissolve when exposed to water (“eco‐resorbable”) to eliminate the need for collection and recovery. Analytical models for dissolution of the constituent materials represent important design tools for transient electronic systems that are configured to disappear in water or biofluids. Here, solutions for reactive‐diffusion are presented in single‐ and double‐layered structures, in which the remaining thicknesses and electrical resistances are obtained analytically. The dissolution time and rate are defined in terms of the reaction constants and diffusivities of the materials, the thicknesses of the layer, and other properties of materials and solution. These models agree well with the experiments for single layers of Mg and SiO2, and double layers of Mg/MgO. The underlying physical constants extracted from analysis fall within a broad range previously reported in other studies; these constants can be extremely sensitive to the morphologies of the materials, temperature, and the PH value, concentration, and properties of the surrounding liquid.
Synthese von hierarchischen Nanostrukturen durch elastokapillare Selbstorganisation
Authors: De Volder Michaël , Hart A. John
Published: January 2013

Oberflächen, die mit nanoskaligen Filamenten wie Siliciumnanodrähten und Kohlenstoffnanoröhren beschichtet sind, sind potenziell hochinteressant für Hochleistungsbatterien und Kondensatorelektroden, Photovoltaik, elektrische Schaltungen, Substrate für Zellzüchtungen, Trockenklebstoffe und andere intelligente Materialien. Viele diese Anwendungen erfordern eine nasse Umgebung oder umfassen Verarbeitungsschritte in Lösung. Die durch diese nassen Umgebungen erzeugten Kapillarkräfte können einerseits zu einer unerwünschten Aggregation der nanoskaligen Filamente führen, andererseits kann über die Steuerung der Kapillarkräfte jedoch ein Manipulieren dieser Filamente zur Bildung diskreter Aggregate und neuer hierarchischer Strukturen möglich werden. Viele neuere Arbeiten deuten darauf hin, dass die elastokapillare Selbstorganisation von Nanofilamenten eine vielseitige und skalierbare Methode zum Aufbau komplexer und robuster Oberflächenarchitekturen sein kann. Mit diesem Aufsatz möchten wir zum Verständnis der elastokapillaren Selbstorganisation als Herstellungsmethode beitragen und deren Anwendungspotenzial vorstellen. Wir erläutern die Grundlagen und klassifizieren typische Anwendungen und Oberflächendesigns für Nanodrähte, Nanoröhren und Nanosäulen aus verschiedensten Materialien. Schließlich diskutieren wir beispielhafte Anwendungen und zukünftige Möglichkeiten, um neue Oberflächen über die elastokapillare Selbstorganisation von Nanofilamenten zu realisieren.
Synthesis and Evaluation of 3‐[(2,4‐Dioxo‐1,3,8‐triazaspiro[4.6]undec‐3‐yl)methyl]benzonitrile Derivatives as Potential Anticonvulsants
Authors: Madaiah Malavalli , Prashanth Maralekere K. , Revanasiddappa Hosakere D. , Veeresh Bantal
Published: January 2013

New 3‐[(2,4‐dioxo‐1,3,8‐triazaspiro[4.6]undec‐3‐yl)methyl]benzonitrile derivatives 8–37 were synthesized and their pharmacological activities were determined with the objective to better understand their structure–activity relationship (SAR) for anticonvulsant activity. All the compounds were evaluated for their possible anticonvulsant activity by maximal electroshock seizure (MES) and pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) test. Compounds 11, 18, 31, and 32 showed significant and protective effect on seizure, when compared with the standard drug valproate. The same compounds were found to exhibit advanced anticonvulsant activity as well as lower neurotoxicity than the reference drug. From this study, it is quite apparent that there are at least three parameters for the activity of anticonvulsant drugs, that is, a lipophilic domain, a hydrophobic center, and a two‐electron donor.
Structure Prediction of Binary Pernitride MN2 Compounds (M=Ca, Sr, Ba, La, and Ti)
Authors: Kulkarni A. , Schön J. C. , Doll K. , Jansen M.
Published: January 2013

Metal‐pernitride compounds belong to a class of chemical systems in which both the complex ions and the non‐bonding electrons may play roles in the formation of their modified crystalline structures. To investigate this issue, the energy landscapes of pernitrides of metals with different maximum valence (M=Ca, Sr, Ba, La, and Ti) were globally explored on the ab initio level at standard and high pressures, thereby yielding possible (meta)stable modifications in these systems together with information on how the landscape changed as function of the valence of the metal cation. For all of the systems in which no compounds had been synthesized so far, we predicted the existence of kinetically stable modifications that should, in principle, be experimentally accessible. In particular, TiN2 should crystallize in a new structure type, TiN2‐I.
Comparison of laparoscopic and open intraoperative ultrasonography for staging liver tumours
Authors: Viganò L , Ferrero A , Amisano M , Russolillo N , Capussotti L
Published: January 2013

Background

Laparoscopic liver surgery must reproduce open surgical steps. Intraoperative ultrasonography (IOUS) is mandatory, but reliability of laparoscopic IOUS has been poorly evaluated. The aim of this study was to compare laparoscopic versus open IOUS in staging liver tumours.

Methods

All patients scheduled for liver resection between September 2009 and March 2011 were considered. Inclusion criteria were primary and metastatic tumours. Exclusion criteria were: hilar/gallbladder cholangiocarcinoma, ten or more lesions, repeat resection, laparoscopic hepatectomy, adhesions and unresectability. Following percutaneous ultrasonography and thoracoabdominal computed tomography (CT), and on indication contrast-enhanced (CE) liver magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and/or positron emission tomography (PET)–CT, patients were scheduled for laparoscopy, laparoscopic IOUS, then laparotomy, open IOUS and Partial hepatectomy. Data were collected prospectively. Reference standards were final pathology and 6-month follow-up results.

Results

Sixty-five patients were included, who had a median of 3 preoperative imaging studies (ultrasonography/CT 100 per cent, CE-MRI 67 per cent, PET–CT 54 per cent). A total of 119 lesions were diagnosed. Laparoscopic IOUS detected 22 additional lesions (+18·5 per cent) in 14 patients. Open IOUS detected two additional lesions, but did not confirm four lesions; overall 20 additional lesions (+16·8 per cent) were detected in ten patients. Pathology confirmed 14 newly detected malignant nodules (+11·8 per cent) in eight patients. After 6 months ten new nodules were identified in six patients. The sensitivity of preoperative imaging, laparoscopic IOUS and open IOUS was 83·1, 92·3 and 93·0 per cent respectively; accuracy was 79, 82 and 88 per cent. In comparison with open IOUS, the sensitivity and accuracy of laparoscopic IOUS were 98·6 and 94 per cent.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic IOUS is a reliable tool for staging liver tumours with a performance similar to that of open IOUS in detecting new nodules.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of perioperative steroids on ischaemia–reperfusion injury and surgical stress response in patients undergoing liver resection
Authors: Orci L A , Toso C , Mentha G , Morel P , Majno P E
Published: January 2013

Background

Several therapeutic strategies, such as ischaemic preconditioning, intermittent or selective pedicle clamping and pharmacological interventions, have been explored to reduce morbidity caused by hepatic ischaemia–reperfusion injury and the surgical stress response. The role of steroids in this setting remains controversial.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search in MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Register of Clinical Trials (CENTRAL) was conducted (1966 onwards), identifying studies comparing perioperative administration of intravenous steroids with standard care or placebo, in the setting of liver surgery. Randomized Controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs were included. Critical appraisal and meta-analysis were carried out according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement.

Results

Six articles were included; five were RCTs. Pooling the results revealed that patients receiving intravenous glucocorticoids were 24 per cent less likely to suffer postoperative morbidity compared with controls (risk ratio 0·76, 95 per cent confidence interval 0·57 to 0·99; P = 0·047). The treated group experienced a significantly greater rise in early postoperative interleukin (IL) 10 levels compared with controls. In addition, steroids significantly reduced postoperative blood levels of bilirubin, and of inflammatory markers such as IL-6 and C-reactive protein. There was no evidence supporting a risk difference in infectious complications and wound healing between study groups.

Conclusion

Perioperative steroids have a favourable impact on postoperative outcomes after liver resection.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of triclosan-coated sutures for the prevention of surgical-site infection
Authors: Wang Z X , Jiang C P , Cao Y , Ding Y T
Published: January 2013

Background

Surgical-site infections (SSIs) increase morbidity and mortality in surgical patients and represent an economic burden to healthcare systems. Experiments have shown that triclosan-coated sutures (TCS) are beneficial in the prevention of SSI, although the results from individual randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are inconclusive. A meta-analysis of available RCTs was performed to evaluate the efficacy of TCS in the prevention of SSI.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science®, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and internet-based trial registries for RCTs comparing the effect of TCS and conventional uncoated sutures on SSIs was conducted until June 2012. The primary outcome investigated was the incidence of SSI. Pooled relative risks with 95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) were estimated with RevMan 5.1.6.

Results

Seventeen RCTs involving 3720 participants were included. No heterogeneity of statistical significance across studies was observed. TCS showed a significant advantage in reducing the rate of SSI by 30 per cent (relative risk 0·70, 95 per cent c.i. 0·57 to 0·85; P < 0·001). Subgroup analyses revealed consistent results in favour of TCS in adult patients, abdominal procedures, and clean or clean-contaminated surgical wounds.

Conclusion

TCS demonstrated a significant beneficial effect in the prevention of SSI after surgery.
Determination of the Effective Charge Density of pH‐Responsive Keplerate Polyoxometalate Clusters by Means of Agarose Gel Electrophoresis
Authors: Pigga Joseph M. , Liu Tianbo
Published: January 2013

The effective (net) charge densities of the Keplerate {Mo72Fe30}, {Mo72V30}, and {W72Mo30} macroanions in dilute aqueous solution were determined from electrophoresis measurements, which provided direct, quantitative evidence of the counterion association behavior around macroions. The latter two clusters are strong electrolytes, and their charge densities show no clear pH dependence. The surface charge density of {Mo72Fe30} increased with increasing solution pH owing to the partial deprotonation of the weak acid {Mo72Fe30} macroions. A close connection between the surface charge density of {Mo72Fe30} and their assembled blackberry structure sizes was observed.
Fowlpox‐based survivin vaccination for malignant mesothelioma therapy
Authors: Bertino Pietro , Panigada Maddalena , Soprana Elisa , Bianchi Valentina , Bertilaccio Sabrina , Sanvito Francesca , Rose Aaron H. , Yang Haining , Gaudino Giovanni , Hoffmann Peter R. , Siccardi Antonio , Carbone Michele
Published: January 2013

Survivin protein is an attractive candidate for cancer immunotherapy since it is abundantly expressed in most common human cancers and mostly absent in normal adult tissues. Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is a deadly cancer associated with asbestos or erionite exposure for which no successful therapies are currently available. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of a novel survivin‐based vaccine by subcutaneous or intraperitoneum injection of BALB/c mice with murine fiber‐induced MM tumor cells followed by vaccination with recombinant Fowlpox virus replicons encoding survivin. Vaccination generated significant immune responses in both models, leading to delayed tumor growth and improved animal survival. Flow cytometry and immunofluorescence analyses of tumors from vaccinated mice showed CD8+ T‐cell infiltration, and real‐time PCR demonstrated increased mRNA and protein levels of immunostimulatory cytokines. Analyses of survivin peptide‐pulsed spleen and lymph node cells from vaccinated mice using ELISPOT and intracellular cytokine staining confirmed antigen‐specific, interferon‐γ‐producing CD8+ T‐cell responses. In addition pentamer‐based flow cytometry showed that vaccination generated survivin‐specific CD8+ T cells. Importantly, vaccination did not affect fertility or induce autoimmune abnormalities in mice. Our results demonstrate that vaccination with recombinant Fowlpox expressing survivin improves T‐cell responses against aggressive MM tumors and may form the basis for promising clinical applications.
Variants in nucleotide excision repair core genes and susceptibility to recurrence of squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx
Authors: Song Xicheng , Sturgis Erich M. , Jin Lei , Wang Zhongqiu , Wei Qingyi , Li Guojun
Published: January 2013

Genetically determined capacity forNERmay modulate both cancer risk and prognosis. Thus, we evaluated associations of seven selected variants in theNERcore genes with recurrence risk in 658 squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx (SCCOP) patients treated principally by radiation. The seven polymorphisms in the coreNERgenes (XPC‐rs2228000,XPC‐rs2228001,XPD‐rs1799793,XPD‐rs13181,XPG‐rs17655,ERCC1‐rs3212986 andXPA‐rs1800975)were genotyped using PCR‐RFLP method and log‐rank test and multivariable Cox models were used to evaluate the associations in both dominant and recessive genetic models. In a dominant model, we found that polymorphisms ofXPC‐rs2228000,XPD‐rs1799793 andXPG‐rs17655 were significantly associated with disease‐free survival (log‐rank,p = 0.014;p = 0.00008;p = 0.0007, respectively), and these polymorphisms were significantly associated with recurrence risk of SCCOP (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1–2.3 forXPC‐rs2228000; HR = 0.4, 95% 0.3–0.6 forXPD‐rs1799793 and HR = 0.5, 95% CI 0.4–0.8 forXPG‐rs17655) after multivariable adjustment. Moreover, the borderline significant or significant associations were also found for these three polymorphisms in HPV16/18‐positive SCCOP patients (HR = 1.6, 95% CI 1.0–4.1 forXPC‐rs2228000; HR = 0.2, 95% CI 0.1–0.5 forXPD‐rs1799793 and HR = 0.1, 95% CI 0.0–0.9 forXPG‐rs17655). However, similarly significant associations were not found for these polymorphisms in a recessive model. These findings suggest that polymorphisms ofXPC‐rs2228000,XPD‐rs1799793 andXPG‐rs17655 in theNERcore genes may contribute to recurrence risk of SCCOP, particularly HPV‐positive SCCOP, in a dominant but not in a recessive model. However, validation of these results is warranted.
PRACTICAL ISSUES IN DEVELOPING A SMART SURFACE IRRIGATION SYSTEM WITH REAL‐TIME SIMULATION OF FURROW ADVANCE
Authors: Shahidian S. , Serralheiro R. P. , Serrano J. M.
Published: January 2013

Automation of surface irrigation can be an economic and ecological way of increasing global food production. In this work a fully automated cablegation system is evaluated that adapts the application time and depth to the actual infiltration rate of the soil in real‐time. The system calculates the infiltration equation from advance times in a control furrow and then simulates irrigation in every furrow of the field, establishing the optimum application time for each furrow. The methodology was evaluated in a field organized in contour terraces with furrows of various lengths in order to evaluate practical issues affecting the performance of the system. The results confirm the temporal variability in soil infiltration, and the need for real‐time determination of the infiltration equation. The evolution of furrow geometry through the season did not have an important impact on the results of the simulations. The length of the furrow considered for calculating the Kostiakov equation influences the parameters of the equation. Automation with real‐time feedback can result in important savings in water and labour and can produce irrigation events with more than 90% application efficiency. Nevertheless, the results also indicate that there are practical limits to what can possibly be achieved with automation and real‐time feedback from the field. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mapping of heparin/heparan sulfate binding sites on αvβ3 integrin by molecular docking
Authors: Ballut Lionel , Sapay Nicolas , Chautard Émilie , Imberty Anne , Ricard‐Blum Sylvie
Published: January 2013

Heparin/heparan sulfate interact with growth factors, chemokines, extracellular proteins, and receptors. Integrins are αβ heterodimers that serve as receptors for extracellular proteins, regulate cell behavior, and participate in extracellular matrix assembly. Heparin binds to RGD‐dependent integrins (αIIbβ3, α5β1, αvβ3, and αvβ5) and to RGD‐independent integrins (α4β1, αXβ2, and αMβ2), but their binding sites have not been located on integrins. We report the mapping of heparin binding sites on the ectodomain of αvβ3 integrin by molecular modeling. The surface of the ectodomain was scanned with small rigid probes mimicking the sulfated domains of heparan sulfate. Docking results were clustered into binding spots. The best results were selected for further docking simulations with heparin hexasaccharide. Six potential binding spots containing lysine and/or arginine residues were identified on the ectodomain of αvβ3 integrin. Heparin would mostly bind to the top of the genu domain, the Calf‐I domain of the α subunit, and the top of the β subunit of RGD‐dependent integrins. Three spots were close enough from each other on the integrin surface to form an extended binding site that could interact with heparin/heparan sulfate chains. Because heparin does not bind to the same integrin site as protein ligands, no steric hindrance prevents the formation of ternary complexes comprising the integrin, its protein ligand, and heparin/heparan sulfate. The basic amino acid residues predicted to interact with heparin are conserved in the sequences of RGD‐dependent but not of RGD‐independent integrins suggesting that heparin/heparan sulfate could bind to different sites on these two integrin subfamilies. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Asymmetric structure and domain binding interfaces of human tyrosyl‐tRNA synthetase studied by molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Savytskyi Oleksandr V. , Yesylevskyy Semen O. , Kornelyuk Alexander I.
Published: January 2013

Human tyrosyl‐tRNA synthetase (HsTyrRS) is composed of two structural modules: N‐terminal catalytic core and an EMAP II‐like C‐terminal domain. The structures of these modules are known, but no crystal structure of the full‐length HsTyrRS is currently available. An all‐atom model of the full‐length HsTyrRS was developed in this work. The structure, dynamics, and domain binding interfaces of HsTyrRS were investigated by extensive molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Our data suggest that HsTyrRS in solution consists of a number of compact asymmetric conformations, which differ significantly by their rigidity, internal mobility, orientation of C‐terminal modules, and the strength of interdomain binding. Interfaces of domain binding obtained in MD simulations are in perfect agreement with our previous coarse‐grained hierarchical rotations technique simulations. Formation of the hydrogen bonds between R93 residue of the ELR cytokine motif and the residues A340 and E479 in the C‐module was observed. This observation supports the idea that the lack of cytokine activity in the full‐length HsTyrRS is explained by interactions between N‐modules and C‐modules, which block the ELR motif. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Effect of Mold Temperature on the Performance of Injection Molded Poly(lactic acid)‐Based Bioplastic
Authors: Vadori Ryan , Mohanty Amar K. , Misra Manju
Published: January 2013

This research investigates the effects of processing parameters, namely molding temperature on the mechanical performance of impact‐modified poly(lactic acid) (PLA). Polymer crystallization dictates many of the final properties of the material. Increasing the mold temperature, crystallization may progress to a further stage, increasing crystallinity. Molding at a lower temperature, and producing a highly amorphous polymer can increase the mechanical properties, namely elongation and impact strength. Molding at 30 versus 90 °C improved the elongation from 22 to 243% and the impact strength from 67 to 133 J · m−1. This improvement is not without its drawbacks. By molding at 30 °C, the polymer becomes very amorphous, and thus is more susceptible to unwanted processes such as physical aging.

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Poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) and Poly(propylene carbonate) Blends: an Efficient Method to Finely Adjust Properties of Functional Materials
Authors: Corre Yves‐Marie , Bruzaud Stéphane , Grohens Yves
Published: January 2013

Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) and poly(propylene carbonate) (PPC) are blended in order to investigate their mutual contributions in terms of functional properties. A wide range of blend composition is processed through extrusion from dry blends. Droplet‐matrix morphology is observed for all samples. Thermal investigations reveal the PPC effect on the PHA crystallization process with a decrease and broadening of the crystallization temperature window and on the depression of its glass transition temperature. This investigation also confirms the as yet un‐reported non‐miscibility of this kind of blend. However, a slight phase interaction is expected since thermal behavior of PHA is impacted. The fragile behavior of PHA is balanced by the high ductility of PPC. The weak strain at break of PHA can thus be increased by up to 200% although a significant amount of PPC is needed to start modifying this property. Stress at break and modulus are linearly decreased from pure PHA to pure PPC values. PPC also acts as an impact modifier for PHA. In terms of barrier properties, PHA brings a large contribution even at low content to the initially high oxygen and water vapor permeability of PPC.

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Semiconductor/Polymer Nanocomposites of Acrylates and Nanocrystalline Silicon by Laser‐Induced Thermal Polymerization
Authors: Deubel Frank , Steenackers Marin , Garrido José A. , Stutzmann Martin , Jordan Rainer
Published: January 2013

In this work, a novel method for the preparation of polymer/semiconductor nanocomposites is presented. The nanocomposite is directly prepared from a suspension of nanocrystalline silicon (nc‐Si) in bulk vinyl monomers (acrylates) and focused heating of the nc‐Si by irradiation with a pulsed laser at 532 nm wavelength. The silicon nanocrystals are the inorganic component of the composite and simultaneously act as initiation points of the free radical polymerization forming the hybrid composite. By this method, patterned nanocomposite films with thicknesses up to ≈250 µm can be readily prepared. Furthermore, the polymerization kinetics were investigated for different reaction conditions such as irradiation time, laser intensity, nc‐Si content, and addition of radical initiators.

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Approximation and numerical realization of an optimal design welding problem
Authors: Chakib A. , Nachaoui A. , Nachaoui M.
Published: January 2013

In this article, we deal with the approximation of an optimal shape design approach for a free boundary problem modeling a welding process. We consider discretization of this problem based on linear finite elements. We prove the existence of discrete optimal solutions. This allows us to show the convergence result of a sequence of discrete solutions to the continuous one. Finally, methods for numerical realization are described and several examples have been carried out to illustrate the efficiency of the proposed approach. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2013
Structured approach to the elicitation of expert beliefs for a Bayesian‐designed clinical trial: a case study
Authors: Kinnersley Nelson , Day Simon
Published: January 2013

To quantify uncertainty in a formal manner, statisticians play a vital role in identifying a prior distribution for a Bayesian‐designed clinical trial. However, when expert beliefs are to be used to form the prior, the literature is sparse on how feasible and how reliable it is to elicit beliefs from experts. For late‐stage clinical trials, high importance is placed on reliability; however, feasibility may be equally important in early‐stage trials.

This article describes a case study to assess how feasible it is to conduct an elicitation session in a structured manner and to form a probability distribution that would be used in a hypothetical early‐stage trial. The case study revealed that by using a structured approach to planning, training and conduct, it is feasible to elicit expert beliefs and form a probability distribution in a timely manner. We argue that by further increasing the published accounts of elicitation of expert beliefs in drug development, there will be increased confidence in the feasibility of conducting elicitation sessions. Furthermore, this will lead to wider dissemination of the pertinent issues on how to quantify uncertainty to both practicing statisticians and others involved with designing trials in a Bayesian manner. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.