bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Bariatric Surgery on Facial Features
Authors: Papoian Vardan , Mardirossian Vartan , Hess Donald Thomas , Spiegel Jeffrey H
Published: September 2015

Background Bariatric surgeries performed in the USA has increased twelve-fold in the past two decades. The effects of rapid weight loss on facial features has not been previously studied. We hypothesized that bariatric surgery will mimic the effects of aging thus giving the patient an older and less attractive appearance.

Methods Consecutive patients were enrolled from the bariatric surgical clinic at our institution. Pre and post weight loss photographs were taken and used to generate two surveys. The surveys were distributed through social media to assess the difference between the preoperative and postoperative facial photos, in terms of patients' perceived age and overall attractiveness. 102 respondents completed the first survey and 95 respondents completed the second survey.

Results Of the 14 patients, five showed statistically significant change in perceived age (three more likely to be perceived older and two less likely to be perceived older). The patients were assessed to be more attractive postoperatively, which showed statistical significance.

Conclusions Weight loss does affect facial aesthetics. Mild weight loss is perceived by survey respondents to give the appearance of a younger but less attractive patient, while substantial weight loss is perceived to give the appearance of an older but more attractive patient.
A Multicenter Noncomparative Clinical Study on Midface Rejuvenation Using a Nonabsorbable Polypropylene Mesh: Evaluation of Efficacy and Safety
Authors: Pak Chang Sik , Chang Lan Sook , Lee Hobin , Jeong Jae Hoon , Jeong Jinwook , Yoon Eul-Sik , Heo Chan Yeong
Published: September 2015

Background Facial rejuvenation can be achieved using a variety of techniques. Since minimally invasive procedures for face lifting have become popular because of their convenience and short operating time, numerous minimally invasive surgical procedures have been developed. In this study, a nonabsorbable polypropylene mesh is introduced as a new face lifting instrument, with the nasolabial fold as the main target area. In this paper, we report the efficacy and safety of a polypropylene mesh in midface rejuvenation.

Methods Thirty-three subjects with moderate-to-severe nasolabial folds were enrolled from two medical institutions for a noncomparative single-sample study. A mesh was inserted above the superficial muscular aponeurotic system layer, reaching the nasolabial folds through a temporal scalp incision. After 3 weeks, the temporal end of the mesh was pulled to provide a lifting effect. Then, the mesh was fixed to the deep temporal fascia using nonabsorbable sutures. To evaluate efficacy, we compared the scores on the Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale and a visual analog scale for patient satisfaction between the baseline and 7 weeks postoperatively. In addition, we evaluated safety based on the incidence of adverse events.

Results The treatment was deemed effective at improving wrinkles in 23 of 28 cases, and patient satisfaction improved significantly during the study period. There were seven cases of skin or subcutaneous tissue complications, including edema and erythema, but there were no suspected serious adverse events.

Conclusions Face lifting using a nonabsorbable mesh can improve nasolabial folds without serious adverse effects. Thus, this technique is safe and effective for midface rejuvenation.
Optical Biopsy of Peripheral Nerve Using Confocal Laser Endomicroscopy: A New Tool for Nerve Surgeons?
Authors: Crowe Christopher S , Liao Joseph C , Curtin Catherine M
Published: September 2015

Peripheral nerve injuries remain a challenge for reconstructive surgeons with many patients obtaining suboptimal results. Understanding the level of injury is imperative for successful repair. Current methods for distinguishing healthy from damaged nerve are time consuming and possess limited efficacy. Confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE) is an emerging optical biopsy technology that enables dynamic, high resolution, sub-surface imaging of live tissue. Porcine sciatic nerve was either left undamaged or briefly clamped to simulate injury. Diluted fluorescein was applied topically to the nerve. CLE imaging was performed by direct contact of the probe with nerve tissue. Images representative of both damaged and undamaged nerve fibers were collected and compared to routine H&E histology. Optical biopsy of undamaged nerve revealed bands of longitudinal nerve fibers, distinct from surrounding adipose and connective tissue. When damaged, these bands appear truncated and terminate in blebs of opacity. H&E staining revealed similar features in damaged nerve fibers. These results prompt development of a protocol for imaging peripheral nerves intraoperatively. To this end, improving surgeons' ability to understand the level of injury through real-time imaging will allow for faster and more informed operative decisions than the current standard permits.
Treatment of Pseudoangiomatous Stromal Hyperplasia of the Breast: Implant-Based Reconstruction with a Vascularized Dermal Sling
Authors: Jung Bok Ki , Nahm Ji Hae , Lew Dae Hyun , Lee Dong Won
Published: September 2015

Pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia (PASH) of the breast is a benign mesenchymal lesion with incidental histologic findings. Surgical excision is recommended as the treatment of choice for PASH, although the recurrence rates after excision range from 15% to 22%. A 46-year-old-female presented with a six-month history of bilateral breast enlargement and painful sensation mimicking inflammatory carcinoma. Imaging studies demonstrated innumerable enhancing nodules in both breasts. Due to the growth of the lesions and progressive clinical symptoms, bilateral subcutaneous mastectomy was performed. Grossly, the specimens were round and well-circumscribed, and the histologic examination revealed PASH. After mastectomy, we created a pocket with the pectoralis major muscle and a lower skin flap, which was deepithelized. Anatomical mammary implants were inserted, and the nipple areolar complex was transferred to a new position as a free graft. The aesthetic result was satisfactory after twelve months of follow-up.
Inferring surface water equilibrium calcite δ18O during the last deglacial period from benthic foraminiferal records: Implications for ocean circulation
Authors: Amrhein Daniel E. , Gebbie Geoffrey , Marchal Olivier , Wunsch Carl
Published: September 2015

The ocean circulation modifies mixed layer (ML) tracer signals as they are communicated to the deep ocean by advection and mixing. We develop and apply a procedure for using tracer signals observed “upstream” (by planktonic foraminifera) and “downstream” (by benthic foraminifera) to constrain how tracer signals are modified by the intervening circulation and, by extension, to constrain properties of that circulation. A history of ML equilibrium calcite δ18O (δ18Oc) spanning the last deglaciation is inferred from a least‐squares fit of eight benthic foraminiferal δ18Oc records to Green's function estimated for the modern ocean circulation. Disagreements between this history and the ML history implied by planktonic records would indicate deviations from the modern circulation. No deviations are diagnosed because the two estimates of ML δ18Oc agree within their uncertainties, but we suggest data collection and modeling procedures useful for inferring circulation changes in future studies. Uncertainties of benthic‐derived ML δ18Oc are lowest in the high‐latitude regions chiefly responsible for ventilating the deep ocean; additional high‐resolution planktonic records constraining these regions are of particular utility. Benthic records from the Southern Ocean, where data are sparse, appear to have the most power to reduce uncertainties in benthic‐derived ML δ18Oc. Understanding the spatiotemporal covariance of deglacial ML δ18Oc will also improve abilities of δ18Oc records to constrain deglacial circulation.
Predicting conditions for the reception of one‐hop signals from the Siple transmitter experiment using the Kp index
Authors: Li J. D. , Spasojevic M. , Inan U. S.
Published: September 2015

Wave injection experiments provide an opportunity to explore and quantify aspects of nonlinear wave‐particle phenomena in a controlled manner. Waves are injected into space from ground‐based ELF/VLF transmitters, and the modified waves are measured by radio receivers on the ground in the conjugate hemisphere. These experiments are expensive and challenging projects to build and to operate, and the transmitted waves are not always detected in the conjugate region. Even the powerful transmitter located at Siple Station, Antarctica in 1986, estimated to radiate over 1 kW, only reported a reception rate of ∼40%, indicating that a significant number of transmissions served no observable scientific purpose and reflecting the difficulty in determining suitable conditions for transmission and reception. Leveraging modern machine‐learning classification techniques, we apply two statistical techniques, a Bayes and a support vector machine classifier, to predict the occurrence of detectable one‐hop transmissions from Siple data with accuracies on the order of 80%–90%. Applying these classifiers to our 1986 Siple data set, we detect 406 receptions of Siple transmissions which we analyze to generate more robust statistics on nonlinear growth rates, 3 dB/s–270 dB/s, and nonlinear total amplification, 3 dB–41 dB.
Numerical simulations of snowfall events: Sensitivity analysis of physical parameterizations
Authors: Fernández‐González S. , Valero F. , Sánchez J. L. , Gascón E. , López L. , García‐Ortega E. , Merino A.
Published: September 2015

Accurate estimation of snowfall episodes several hours or even days in advance is essential to minimize risks to transport and other human activities. Every year, these episodes cause severe traffic problems on the northwestern Iberian Peninsula. In order to analyze the influence of different parameterization schemes, 15 snowfall days were analyzed with the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, defining three nested domains with resolutions of 27, 9, and 3 km. We implemented four microphysical parameterizations (WRF Single‐Moment 6‐class scheme, Goddard, Thompson, and Morrison) and two planetary boundary layer schemes (Yonsei University and Mellor‐Yamada‐Janjic), yielding eight distinct combinations. To validate model estimates, a network of 97 precipitation gauges was used, together with dichotomous data of snowfall presence/absence from snowplow requests to the emergency service of Spain and observatories of the Spanish Meteorological Agency. The results indicate that the most accurate setting of WRF for the study area was that using the Thompson microphysical parameterization and Mellor‐Yamada‐Janjic scheme, although the Thompson and Yonsei University combination had greater accuracy in determining the temporal distribution of precipitation over 1 day. Combining the eight deterministic members in an ensemble average improved results considerably. Further, the root mean square difference decreased markedly using a multiple linear regression as postprocessing. In addition, our method was able to provide mean ensemble precipitation and maximum expected precipitation,which can be very useful in the management of water resources. Finally, we developed an application that allows determination of the risk of snowfall above a certain threshold.
Modeling methane and nitrous oxide emissions from direct‐seeded rice systems
Authors: Simmonds Maegen B. , Li Changsheng , Lee Juhwan , Six Johan , van Kessel Chris , Linquist Bruce A.
Published: September 2015

Process‐based modeling of CH4 and N2O emissions from rice fields is a practical tool for conducting greenhouse gas inventories and estimating mitigation potentials of alternative practices at the scale of management and policy making. However, the accuracy of these models in simulating CH4 and N2O emissions in direct‐seeded rice systems under various management practices remains a question. We empirically evaluated the denitrification‐decomposition model for estimating CH4 and N2O fluxes in California rice systems. Five and nine site‐year combinations were used for calibration and validation, respectively. The model was parameterized for two cultivars, M206 and Koshihikari, and able to simulate 30% and 78% of the variation in measured yields, respectively. Overall, modeled and observed seasonal CH4 emissions were similar (R2 = 0.85), but there was poor correspondence in fallow period CH4 emissions and in seasonal and fallow period N2O emissions. Furthermore, management effects on seasonal CH4 emissions were highly variable and not well represented by the model (0.2–465% absolute relative deviation). Specifically, simulated CH4 emissions were oversensitive to fertilizer N rate but lacked sensitivity to the type of seeding system (dry seeding versus water seeding) and prior fallow period straw management. Additionally, N2O emissions were oversensitive to fertilizer N rate and field drainage. Sensitivity analysis showed that CH4 emissions were highly sensitive to changes in the root to total plant biomass ratio, suggesting that it is a significant source of model uncertainty. These findings have implications for model‐directed field research that could improve model representation of paddy soils for application at larger spatial scales.
Abrupt shifts in phenology and vegetation productivity under climate extremes
Authors: Ma Xuanlong , Huete Alfredo , Moran Susan , Ponce‐Campos Guillermo , Eamus Derek
Published: September 2015

Amplification of the hydrologic cycle as a consequence of global warming is predicted to increase climate variability and the frequency and severity of droughts. Recent large‐scale drought and flooding over numerous continents provide unique opportunities to understand ecosystem responses to climatic extremes. In this study, we investigated the impacts of the early 21st century extreme hydroclimatic variations in southeastern Australia on phenology and vegetation productivity using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer Enhanced Vegetation Index and Standardized Precipitation‐Evapotranspiration Index. Results revealed dramatic impacts of drought and wet extremes on vegetation dynamics, with abrupt between year changes in phenology. Drought resulted in widespread reductions or collapse in the normal patterns of seasonality such that in many cases there was no detectable phenological cycle during drought years. Across the full range of biomes examined, we found semiarid ecosystems to exhibit the largest sensitivity to hydroclimatic variations, exceeding that of arid and humid ecosystems. This result demonstrated the vulnerability of semiarid ecosystems to climatic extremes and potential loss of ecosystem resilience with future mega‐drought events. A skewed distribution of hydroclimatic sensitivity with aridity is of global biogeochemical significance because it suggests that current drying trends in semiarid regions will reduce hydroclimatic sensitivity and suppress the large carbon sink that has been reported during recent wet periods (e.g., 2011 La Niña).
Regional model‐based computerized ionospheric tomography using GPS measurements: IONOLAB‐CIT
Authors: Tuna Hakan , Arikan Orhan , Arikan Feza
Published: September 2015

Three‐dimensional imaging of the electron density distribution in the ionosphere is a crucial task for investigating the ionospheric effects. Dual‐frequency Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite signals can be used to estimate the slant total electron content (STEC) along the propagation path between a GPS satellite and ground‐based receiver station. However, the estimated GPS‐STEC is very sparse and highly nonuniformly distributed for obtaining reliable 3‐D electron density distributions derived from the measurements alone. Standard tomographic reconstruction techniques are not accurate or reliable enough to represent the full complexity of variable ionosphere. On the other hand, model‐based electron density distributions are produced according to the general trends of ionosphere, and these distributions do not agree with measurements, especially for geomagnetically active hours. In this study, a regional 3‐D electron density distribution reconstruction method, namely, IONOLAB‐CIT, is proposed to assimilate GPS‐STEC into physical ionospheric models. The proposed method is based on an iterative optimization framework that tracks the deviations from the ionospheric model in terms of F2 layer critical frequency and maximum ionization height resulting from the comparison of International Reference Ionosphere extended to Plasmasphere (IRI‐Plas) model‐generated STEC and GPS‐STEC. The suggested tomography algorithm is applied successfully for the reconstruction of electron density profiles over Turkey, during quiet and disturbed hours of ionosphere using Turkish National Permanent GPS Network.
Growth Kinetics of In Situ Preparation of Dense TiC Ceramic Layer‐Reinforced Gray Cast Iron Matrix Surface Composites
Authors: Fan Shaozhong , Zhong Lisheng , Xu Yunhua , Fu Yonghong , Wang Liangliang
Published: September 2015

We report the in situ synthesis of a dense TiC ceramic layer between a titanium plate and graphite flakes in gray cast iron using heat treatment. The phases of the dense ceramic layer were determined by XRD, and the microstructures of the layer were characterized by SEM. The kinetics of the layer were also analyzed. The particle sizes of the as‐prepared TiC samples varied from 1 µm to 10 μm. The thicknesses (d) of the layers, which increased gradually with incubation time, were 46, 65, 80, 96, and 110 μm after 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 h of incubation at 1433 K, respectively. The formation of the dense layer involves diffusion, an in situ reaction, and the diffusion of C, Ti, and TiC atoms. The d of the layer changed parabolically with time, and the relationships between d, T, and t were determined.
Organosilanes Surface Modification of Zirconium Diboride Composite Engineering Ceramics and Its Effect on the Tribological Performance of Epoxy Composites
Authors: Yang Xiaolei , Yu Zhiqiang , Wu Yicheng
Published: September 2015

Zirconium diboride/alumina composite particles are modified by three kinds of organosilanes. The modified particles are characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, X‐ray photoelectron spectra, and transmission electron microscope. The results show that the organosilanes are successfully grafted onto the surfaces of composite particles by Al–O–Si bonds from the chemical reaction between particles and organosilanes, which makes contribution to reducing the agglomeration of particles in epoxy. The epoxy composites containing modified particles present higher tribological performances and more even distribution of the thermal flux which restrains the deterioration of the tribological properties caused by the concentration of friction heat.
Adhesion Prevention after Laminectomy Using Silk‐Polyethylene Glycol Hydrogels
Authors: Wang Yansong , Liang Min , Zheng Zhaozhu , Shi Liangchen , Su Bo , Liu Jian , Kaplan David L. , Zhang Bin , Wang Xiaoqin
Published: September 2015

Laminectomy is a common operation in spine surgery to reduce spinal cord and nerve pressure. However, scar tissues often form in the spinal canal and adhere to the dura surface, resulting in low back pain postsurgery. In the present study, biodegradable silk‐polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogels are evaluated for adhesion prevention after laminectomies in New Zealand rabbits, with nondegradable expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) membranes and saline as controls. No significant difference among the three groups is observed within 2 weeks. Silk is fully degraded within 6 weeks, leaving a gap separating the scar tissue and the dura mater. Severe dural scar adhesion form in the saline control group after 8 weeks, while no or mild adhesion is observed in the ePTFE membrane and silk‐PEG hydrogel samples. Human dermal fibroblasts (HS‐865‐SK cells) are cultured in the silk‐PEG hydrogel extracts and on top of gel surfaces. Compared to the controls of tissue culture plate (no silk) and sonicated silk hydrogels (no PEG), the proliferation of fibroblasts in both conditions is significantly reduced initially but resumes after 120 h, suggesting the surface properties of the hydrogels and local, temporal release of PEG accounts for the adhesion prevention observed in vivo in this study.
Chiral Nanoarchitectonics: Towards the Design, Self‐Assembly, and Function of Nanoscale Chiral Twists and Helices
Authors: Zhang Li , Wang Tianyu , Shen Zhaocun , Liu Minghua
Published: September 2015

Helical structures such as double helical DNA and the α‐helical proteins found in biological systems are among the most beautiful natural structures. Chiral nanoarchitectonics, which is used here to describe the hierarchical formation and fabrication of chiral nanoarchitectures that can be observed by atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), or transmission electron microscopy (TEM), is one of the most effective ways to mimic those natural chiral nanostructures. This article focuses on the formation, structure, and function of the most common chiral nanoarchitectures: nanoscale chiral twists and helices. The types of molecules that can be designed and how they can form hierarchical chiral nanoarchitectures are explored. In addition, new and unique functions such as amplified chiral sensing, chiral separation, biological effects, and circularly polarized luminescence associated with the chiral nanoarchitectures are discussed.
The role of microexplosions in flame spray synthesis for homogeneous nanopowders from low‐cost metal precursors
Authors: Rosebrock Christopher D. , Wriedt Thomas , Mädler Lutz , Wegner Karsten
Published: September 2015

One of the most versatile and rapid manufacturing processes for a variety of nanopowders is flame spray pyrolysis (FSP). The production costs of this scalable process are largely controlled by the raw materials, pushing for the utilization of low‐cost metal precursors. These, however, typically yield inhomogeneous products containing large particles up to micrometer size along with fine nanoparticles. Here, the release mechanism of nitrate and carboxylate precursors from spray droplets has been investigated by single‐droplet combustion experiments and thermogravimetric analysis. The results show that neither precursor evaporation nor choice of solvents is prerequisite for homogeneous nanopowders but droplet microexplosions with continuing combustion. It is shown that even low‐cost metal nitrates yield homogeneous nanopowders if precursors are formulated such that droplet microexplosions occur by internal superheating. The proposed precursor release mechanisms are verified with lab‐ and pilot‐scale FSP, demonstrating that single‐droplet combustion experiments can be employed to predict the product quality. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 62: 381–391, 2016
Compound heterozygous PKHD1 variants cause a wide spectrum of ductal plate malformations
Authors: Courcet Jean‐Benoît , Minello Anne , Prieur Fabienne , Morisse Laurent , Phelip Jean‐Marc , Beurdeley Alain , Meynard Daniel , Massenet Denis , Lacassin Flore , Duffourd Yannis , Gigot Nadège , St‐Onge Judith , Hillon Patrick , Vanlemmens Claire , Mousson Christiane , Cerceuil Jean‐Pierre , Guiu Boris , Thevenon Julien , Thauvin‐Robinet Christel , Jacquemin Emmanuel , Rivière Jean‐Baptiste , Michel‐Calemard Laurence , Faivre Laurence
Published: September 2015

Ductal plate malformations (DPM) present with a wide phenotypic spectrum comprising Von Meyenburg complexes (VMC), Caroli disease (CD), Caroli syndrome (CS), and autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD). Variants in PKHD1 are responsible for ARPKD and CS with a high inter‐ and intra‐familial phenotypic variability. Rare familial cases of CD had been reported and exceptional cases of CD are associated with PKHD1 variants. In a family of three siblings presenting with a wide spectrum of severity of DPM, we performed whole exome sequencing and identified two PKHD1 compound heterozygous variants (c.10444G>A; p.Arg3482Cys and c.5521C>T; p.Glu1841Lys), segregating with the symptoms. Two compound heterozygous PKHD1 variants, including one hypomorphic variant, were identified in two other familial cases of DPM with at least one patient presenting with CD. This report widens the phenotypic variability of PKHD1 variants to VMC, and others hepatic bile ducts malformations with inconstant renal phenotype in adults and highlights the important intra‐familial phenotypic variability. It also showed that PKHD1 might be a major gene for CD. This work adds an example of the contribution of exome sequencing, not only in the discovery of new genes but also in expanding the phenotypic spectrum of well‐known disease‐associated genes, using reverse phenotyping. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
One‐Pot Synthesis of 3‐Iminoisoindolinones by a Rhodium(III)‐Catalyzed and Methanol‐Assisted C−H Cyanation–Cyclization Cascade with N‐Alkoxyl Transfer
Authors: Jia Jinlong , Liu Xuelei , Shi Jingjing , Xu H. Eric , Yi Wei
Published: September 2015

Herein, we disclose the RhIII‐catalyzed and MeOH‐assisted direct C−H functionalization of simple N‐alkoxybenzamides with N‐cyano‐N‐phenyl‐p‐toluenesulfonamide (NCTS) in a one‐pot cascade synthesis of 3‐iminoisoindolinones with excellent substrate/functional group tolerance. Experimental studies reveal that the versatile reaction comprises a regioselective C−H cyanation and subsequent intramolecular cyclization along with N‐alkoxyl transfer. Furthermore, the synthetic application of the obtained products to rapidly build other important structural motifs, such as lactams and phthalazinones, has also been demonstrated in subsequent derivatization reactions.
Predictors of preoperative and early postoperative seizures in patients with intra‐axial primary and metastatic brain tumors: A retrospective observational single center study
Authors: Skardelly Marco , Brendle Elina , Noell Susan , Behling Felix , Wuttke Thomas V. , Schittenhelm Jens , Bisdas Sotirios , Meisner Christoph , Rona Sabine , Tatagiba Marcos Soares , Tabatabai Ghazaleh
Published: September 2015

Objective

Antiepileptic treatment of brain tumor patients mainly depends on the individual physician's choice rather than on well‐defined predictive factors. We investigated the predictive value of defined clinical parameters to formulate a model of risk estimations for subpopulations of brain tumor patients.

Methods

We enclosed 650 patients > 18 years of age who underwent brain tumor surgery and included a number of clinical data. Logistic regressions were performed to determine the effect sizes of seizure‐related risk factors and to develop prognostic scores for the occurrence of preoperative and early postoperative seizures.

Results

A total of 492 patients (334 gliomas) were eligible for logistic regression for preoperative seizures, and 338 patients for early postoperative seizures. Age ≤ 60 years (odds ratio [OR] = 1.66, p = 0.020), grades I and II glioma (OR = 4.00, p = 0.0002), total tumor/edema volume ≤ 64cm3 (OR = 2.18, p = 0.0003), and frontal location (OR = 2.28, p = 0.034) demonstrated an increased risk for preoperative seizures. Isocitrate–dehydrogenase mutations (OR = 2.52, p = 0.026) were an independent risk factor in the glioma subgroup. Age ≥ 60 years (OR = 3.32, p = 0.041), total tumor/edema volume ≤ 64cm3 (OR = 3.17, p = 0.034), complete resection (OR = 15.50, p = 0.0009), diencephalic location (OR = 12.2, p = 0.013), and high‐grade tumors (OR = 5.67, p = 0.013) were significant risk factors for surgery‐related seizures. Antiepileptics (OR = 1.20, p = 0.60) did not affect seizure occurrence. For seizure occurrence, patients could be stratified into 3 prognostic preoperative and into 2 prognostic early postoperative groups.

Interpretation

Based on the developed prognostic scores, seizure prophylaxis should be considered in high‐risk patients and patient stratification for prospective studies may be feasible in the future. Ann Neurol 2015;78:917–928
Towards quantum cybernetics
Authors: Girolami Davide , Schmidt Rebecca , Adesso Gerardo
Published: September 2015

Cybernetics is a successful meta‐theory to model the regulation of complex systems from an abstract information‐theoretic viewpoint, regardless of the properties of the system under scrutiny. Fundamental limits to the controllability of an open system can be formalized in terms of the law of requisite variety, which is derived from the second law of thermodynamics and suggests that establishing correlations between the system of interest and a controller is beneficial. These concepts are briefly reviewed, and the chances, challenges and potential gains arising from the generalisation of such a framework to the quantum domain are discussed.

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Casimir‐Polder potentials on extended molecules
Authors: Fiedler Johannes , Scheel Stefan
Published: September 2015

Casimir–Polder forces—dispersion forces between point‐like microscopic particles and macroscopic dielectric bodies caused by ground‐state fluctuations of the electromagnetic field—have long been studied theoretically and experimentally for point‐like particles. In order to describe the interaction of large molecules with typically more than 100 atoms, an extended theoretical concept beyond the point‐dipole assumption is required. Here we develop a formalism to determine the rotationally averaged Casimir–Polder potential on extended rotating molecules.
Quantitative Evaluation of the Vasculature Supplying the Oviduct in Pre‐Pubertal and Sexually Mature Sows
Authors: Gutiérrez Hugo A. , Latorre Rafael , MartÍnez BagÁn Elizabeth , SÁnchez Margallo Francisco M. , López Albors Octavio
Published: September 2015

The present work was aimed at characterizing the regional vascularization of the oviduct in the pig to ascertain whether the number of terminal mesosalpingeal arterioles supplying the isthmus and ampulla is influenced by reproductive maturity and state of the estrous cycle. The total number of terminal arterioles (NTA) in the mesosalpinx was quantified under a stereomicroscope in latex injected ex‐vivo reproductive tracts from pre‐pubertal (n = 10) and mature sows (n = 34), the latter allocated into three phases of the estrous cycle: follicular (n = 12); early luteal (n = 11); and late luteal (n = 11). The NTA and density of terminal arterioles (DTA) changed little between pre‐pubertal and mature sows or among sows of different reproductive status (P > 0.05). Conversely, both in pre‐pubertal and mature sows the isthmus showed higher DTA (P < 0.001) than the ampulla. It is concluded that the pattern of vascularization supplying the porcine oviduct is essentially established before the onset of puberty so that neither cyclical changes coupled with the estrous cycle nor regional variations between the isthmus and ampulla are likely at the level of the terminal arterioles supplying the oviduct during the reproductive life. Anat Rec, 298:1978–1983, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Basement Membrane and the Sex Establishment in the Juvenile Hermaphroditism During Gonadal Differentiation of the Gymnocorymbus ternetzi (Teleostei: Characiformes: Characidae)
Authors: Mazzoni Talita Sarah , Grier Harry J. , Quagio‐Grassiotto Irani
Published: September 2015

Although there are several studies on morphogenesis in Teleostei, until now there is no research describing the role of the basement membrane in the establishment of the germinal epithelium during gonadal differentiation in Characiformes. In attempt to study these events that result in the formation of ovarian and testicular structures, gonads of Gymnocorymbus ternetzi were prepared for light microscopy. During gonadal development in G. ternetzi, all individuals first developed ovarian tissue. The undifferentiated gonad was formed by somatic cells (SC) and primordial germ cells (PGCs). After successive mitosis, the PGCs became oogonia, which entered into meiosis originating oocytes. An interstitial tissue developed. In half of the individuals, presumptive female, prefollicle cells synthesized a basement membrane around oocyte forming a follicle. Along the ventral region of the ovary, the tissue invaginated to form the ovigerous lamellae, bordered by the germinal epithelium. Stroma developed and the follicle complexes were formed. The gonadal aromatase was detected in interstitial cells in the early steps of the gonadal differentiation in both sexes. In another half of the individuals, presumptive male, there was no synthesis of basement membrane. The interstitium was invaded by numerous granulocytes. Pre‐Leydig cells proliferated. Apoptotic oocytes were observed and afterward degenerated. Spermatogonia appeared near the degenerating oocytes and associated to SCs, forming testicular tubules. Germinal epithelium developed and the basement membrane was synthesized. Concomitantly, there was decrease of the gonadal aromatase and increase in the 3β‐HSD enzyme expression. Thus, the testis was organized on an ovary previously developed, constituting an indirect gonochoristic differentiation. Anat Rec, 298:1984–2010, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Arthritis and the Risk of Falling Into Poverty: A Survival Analysis Using Australian Data
Authors: Callander Emily J. , Schofield Deborah J.
Published: September 2015

Objective

Low income is known to be associated with having arthritis. However, no longitudinal studies have documented the relationship between developing arthritis and falling into poverty. The purpose of this study was to evaluate Australians who developed arthritis to determine if they had an elevated risk of falling into poverty.

Methods

Survival analysis using Cox regression models was applied to nationally representative, longitudinal survey data obtained between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2012 from Australian adults who were ages 21 years and older in 2007.

Results

The hazard ratio for falling into income poverty was 1.08 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.06–1.09) in women who were diagnosed as having arthritis and 1.15 (95% CI 1.13–1.16) in men who were diagnosed as having arthritis, as compared to those who were never diagnosed as having arthritis. The hazard ratio for falling into multidimensional poverty was 1.15 (95% CI 1.14–1.17) in women who were diagnosed as having arthritis and 1.88 (95% CI 1.85–1.91) in men who were diagnosed as having arthritis.

Conclusion

Developing arthritis increases the risk of falling into income poverty and multidimensional poverty. The risk of multidimensional poverty is greater than the risk of income poverty. Given the high prevalence of arthritis, the condition is likely an overlooked driver of poverty.
Association of maternal homocysteine and vitamins status with the risk of neural tube defects in Tunisia: A case–control study
Authors: Nasri Kaouther , Ben Fradj Mohamed Kacem , Touati Asma , Aloui Mariem , Ben Jemaa Nadia , Masmoudi Aida , Elmay Michèle Véronique , Omar Souhail , Feki Moncef , Kaabechi Naziha , Marrakchi Raja , Gaigi Soumeya Siala
Published: September 2015

Background

This study was conducted to determine whether low folate and vitamin B12 levels, as well as high homocysteine levels in pregnant women are associated with neural tube defects (NTDs) in Tunisia.

Methods

A total of 75 NTDs pregnancies and 75 matched controls were included in the study. Their vitamin B12, folate, and red blood cell folate concentrations were measured using a radio‐immunoassay kit and total homocysteine concentrations were determined using a fluorescent polarization immunoassay.

Results

Vitamin B12 and folate concentrations were lower in NTD‐affected pregnant women than in controls (respectively, p = 0.009 and p < 0.001). Total homocysteine concentration was significantly higher in the NTDs group than in controls (p = 0.008). In the case group, the folate levels were positively related with vitamin B12 levels (r = 0.54; p < 0.001) and negatively correlated with total homocysteine levels (r = ‐0.19; p = 0.04). Besides, red blood cell folate levels were positively correlated with folate levels (r = 0.24; p = 0.02) and negatively correlated with total homocysteine levels (r = ‐0.37; p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Lower concentrations of folate and vitamin B12 are related to the increased risk of NTDs. Both folate and vitamin B12 intake insufficiency could contribute to the increased risk of NTDs. A dietary supplement, combining folate and vitamin B12, might be an effective measure to decrease the NTDs incidence in Tunisia. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 103:1011–1020, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conformational features of benzo‐homologated yDNA duplexes by molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Aparna P. , Varughese Mary , Varghese Mathew K. , Haris P. , Sudarsanakumar C.
Published: September 2015

yDNA is a base‐modified nucleic acid duplex containing size‐expanded nucleobases. Base‐modified nucleic acids could expand the genetic alphabet and thereby enhance the functional potential of DNA. Unrestrained 100 ns MD simulations were performed in explicit solvent on the yDNA NMR sequence [5′(yA T yA yA T yA T T yA T)2] and two modeled yDNA duplexes, [5′(yC yC G yC yC G G yC G G)2] and [(yT5′ G yT A yC yG C yA yG T3′)•(yA5′ C T C yG C G yT A yC A3′)]. The force field parameters for the yDNA bases were derived in consistent with the well‐established AMBER force field. Our results show that DNA backbone can withstand the stretched size of the bases retaining the Watson‐Crick base pairing in the duplexes. The duplexes retained their double helical structure throughout the simulations accommodating the strain due to expanded bases in the backbone torsion angles, sugar pucker and helical parameters. The effect of the benzo‐expansion is clearly reflected in the extended C1′‐C1′ distances and enlarged groove widths. The size expanded base modification leads to reduction in base pair twist resulting in larger overlapping area between the stacked bases, enhancing inter and intra strand stacking interactions in yDNA in comparison with BDNA. This geometry could favour enhanced interactions with the groove binders and DNA binding proteins., 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 105: 55–64, 2016
A rapid and sensitive LC‐MS/MS method for the determination of linarin in small‐volume rat plasma and tissue samples and its application to pharmacokinetic and tissue distribution study
Authors: Feng Xinchi , Liu Youping , Wang Xin , Di Xin
Published: September 2015

A rapid and sensitive LC‐MS/MS method was developed for the determination of linarin in small‐volume rat plasma and tissue sample. Sample preparation was employed by the combination of protein precipitation (PPT) and liquid–liquid extraction (LLE) to allow measurement over a 5‐order‐of‐magnitude concentration range. Fast chromatographic separation was achieved on a Hypersil Gold column (100 × 2.1 mm i.d., 5 µm). Mass spectrometric detection was achieved using a triple‐quadrupole mass spectrometer equipped with an electrospray ionization interface operating in positive ionization mode. Quantification was performed using selected reaction monitoring of precursor‐product ion transitions at m/z 593 → 285 for linarin and m/z 447 → 271 for baicalin (internal standard). The total run time was only 2.8 min per sample. The calibration curves were linear over the concentration range of 0.4–200 µg/mL for PPT and 0.001–1.0 µg/mL for LLE. A lower limit of quantification of 1.0 ng/mL was achieved using only 20 μL of plasma or tissue homogenate. The intra‐ and inter‐day precisions in all samples were ≤14.7%, while the accuracy was within ±5.2% of nominal values. The validated method has been successfully applied to pharmacokinetic and tissue distribution study of linarin. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bioresorbable vascular scaffold for the treatment of coronary bifurcations: What have we learned?
Authors: Belardi Jorge A. , Albertal Mariano
Published: September 2015

Key points

Bioresorbable vascular scaffolds (BVS) remain experimental for the treatment of coronary bifurcations (B) and further clinical data is needed before widespread adoption in this setting.

Preliminary, clinical outcome in B using a provisional stenting or double stenting approach with BVS is encouraging and close to the one observed with next‐generation drug‐eluting stent.

Improvements in device navigability, reduction in strut bulk and reabsorption time may render the device more predictable and simpler to use.
Intramolecular Enantiomerism in S(+)2,2‐dimethyl ‐1,3‐dioxolane‐4‐methanol: The Interpretation of Raman Optical Activity Intensity
Authors: Wu Guozhen , Wang Peijie
Published: September 2015

A bond polarizability algorithm was developed and applied to interpret the Raman optical activity (ROA) intensity. It is demonstrated that for the chiral molecule such as S(+)2,2‐dimethyl‐1,3‐dioxolane‐4‐methanol there exists approximate (or symmetry breaking) mirror reflection that reverses the signs of the differential bond polarizabilities of the pair bond coordinates that are related to each other by the mirror reflection, just like that between the right and left enantiomers. The magnitude difference of the differential bond polarizabilities of the pair bond coordinates becomes smaller as they are farther away from the asymmetric atom. Hence, that the asymmetric atom (center) plays a central role in ROA is confirmed from a spectroscopic viewpoint. Meanwhile, the concept of intramolecular enantiomerism is proposed. Chirality 27:820–825, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Barriers to health care contribute to delays in follow‐up among women with abnormal cancer screening: Data from the Patient Navigation Research Program
Authors: Ramachandran Ambili , Snyder Frederick R. , Katz Mira L. , Darnell Julie S. , Dudley Donald J. , Patierno Steven R. , Sanders Mechelle R. , Valverde Patricia A. , Simon Melissa A. , Warren‐Mears Victoria , Battaglia Tracy A. ,   on behalf of the Patient Navigation Research Program Investigators
Published: September 2015

BACKGROUND

There is limited understanding of the association between barriers to care and clinical outcomes within patient navigation programs.

METHODS

Secondary analyses of data from the intervention arms of the Patient Navigation Research Program were performed, which included navigated participants with abnormal breast and cervical cancer screening tests from 2007 to 2010. Independent variables were: 1) the number of unique barriers to care (0, 1, 2, or ≥3) documented during patient navigation encounters; and 2) the presence of socio‐legal barriers originating from social policy (yes/no). The median time to diagnostic resolution of index screening abnormalities was estimated using Kaplan‐Meier cumulative incidence curves. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression examined the impact of barriers on time to resolution, controlling for sociodemographics and stratifying by study center.

RESULTS

Among 2600 breast screening participants, approximately 75% had barriers to care documented (25% had 1 barrier, 16% had 2 barriers, and 34% had ≥3 barriers). Among 1387 cervical screening participants, greater than one‐half had barriers documented (31% had 1 barrier, 11% had 2 barriers, and 13% had ≥3 barriers). Among breast screening participants, the presence of barriers was associated with less timely resolution for any number of barriers compared with no barriers. Among cervical screening participants, only the presence of ≥2 barriers was found to be associated with less timely resolution. Both types of barriers, socio‐legal and other barriers, were found to be associated with delay among breast and cervical screening participants.

CONCLUSIONS

Navigated women with barriers resolved cancer screening abnormalities at a slower rate compared with navigated women with no barriers. Further innovations in navigation care are necessary to maximize the impact of patient navigation programs nationwide. Cancer 2015;121:4016–4024. © 2015 American Cancer Society.
Fluorescence‐based retention assays reveals sustained release of vascular endothelial growth factor from bone grafts
Authors: Kang Wonmo , Yun Ye‐Rang , Lee Dong‐Sung , Kim Tae‐Hyun , Kim Joong‐Hyun , Kim Hae‐Won , Jang Jun‐Hyeog
Published: September 2015

The sustained release of growth factors following their implantation in vivo is essential for successful outcomes in bone tissue engineering. In this study, we evaluated the release kinetics and delivery efficacies of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a potent angiogenic growth factor, incorporated into calcium phosphate bone grafts (BGs). We evaluated the release profile of VEGF from BGs using a novel fluorescence‐based retention assay, which revealed that VEGF loaded on BGs can be released in a sustained manner without an initial burst (near zero‐order cumulative release) with a controlled release rate of 13.6% per week for up to 7 weeks. In contrast, an ELISA‐based release assay showed VEGF to have an early burst‐release profile for the first week. However, the biological activity of VEGF released from the BGs was preserved over the 7‐week release period, which is consistent with the sustained‐release profile observed in the fluorescence‐based retention assay. Furthermore, the in vivo bone‐forming action of the VEGF‐loaded BGs was well demonstrated in a rat subcutaneous model. Taken together, the sustained release of VEGF loaded onto BGs was effective in stimulating proliferation, angiogenesis and osteogenesis, suggesting the ultimate value of VEGF‐engineered BGs for bone tissue engineering. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 283–290, 2016.
Broadband spin‐controlled focusing via logarithmic‐spiral nanoslits of varying width
Authors: Mehmood M. Q. , Liu Hong , Huang Kun , Mei Shengtao , Danner Aaron , Luk'yanchuk Boris , Zhang Shuang , Teng Jinghua , Maier Stefan A. , Qiu Cheng‐Wei
Published: September 2015

This work presents analytical, numerical and experimental demonstrations of light diffracted through a logarithmic spiral (LS) nanoslit, which forms a type of switchable and focus‐tunable structure. Owing to a strong dependence on the incident photon spin, the proposed LS‐nanoslit converges incoming light of opposite handedness (to that of the LS‐nanoslit) into a confined subwavelength spot, while it shapes light with similar chirality into a donut‐like intensity profile. Benefitting from the varying width of the LS‐nanoslit, different incident wavelengths interfere constructively at different positions, i.e., the focal length shifts from 7.5 μm (at λ = 632.8 nm) to 10 μm (at λ = 488 nm), which opens up new opportunities for tuning and spatially separating broadband light at the micrometer scale.

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Vesicle‐to‐Rod Transition of Polymer Aggregates upon Irradiation
Authors: Menon Sajith , Ongungal Rahul M. , Das Suresh
Published: September 2015

Atom transfer radical polymerization is utilized to synthesize an amphiphilic photoresponsive triblock copolymer poly(trifluorostilbene methacrylate)‐b‐polystyrene‐b‐polyethylene oxide (PTFS‐b‐PSt‐b‐PEO). Adding water into tetrahydrofuran solution of PTFS‐b‐PSt‐b‐PEO results in the formation of spherical vesicular aggregates brought about as a result of the association of the water insoluble TFS and St blocks. UV irradiation of the colloidal solution causes trans–cis isomerization of the TFS units which result in morphological transition of the spherical vesicular aggregates to rod‐like particles. This morphological transition is studied using dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and UV–vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. The trans‐stilbene units have almost zero dipole moment whereas the corresponding cis‐form has a definite dipole moment. This polarity difference associated with structural change is expected to be the main reason for the structural transformation of the aggregates. It is also found that PTFS‐b‐PSt‐b‐PEO aggregates have the ability of trapping organic dyes inside their hydrophobic cavity thereby making them water soluble. Subsequently the encapsulated dye can be partially released upon UV irradiation.

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