bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in the sebaceous gland in patients with male pattern hair loss (androgenic alopecia)
Authors: Kure Katsuhiro , Isago Tsukasa , Hirayama Takeshi
Published: July 2015

Background

The sebaceous gland and the follicular bulge region have important role in biology of the hair. They initiate destruction of the hair follicle both in human and animal models in certain conditions. The morphometric feature of the sebaceous gland is not well understood so as the distribution of the bulge stem cells in pathological conditions of male pattern hair loss or androgenic alopecia (AGA).

Objectives

The authors perform morphometric analysis of the sebaceous gland in AGA patients and also study distribution of the follicular stem cells in the bulge region in these populations.

Methods

Two hundred and fifty cases of glass slide specimen from Japanese patients with male pattern hair loss were reviewed. Among these, 23 cases of the longitudinal (vertical) sections of the scalp skin with diagnosis of AGA were found and analyzed for the morphometric characteristics. Each sebaceous gland area was measured using NIH imagej system and statistically analyzed. For the identification of the follicular bulge region, an immunohistochemistry using anticytokeratin 15 (C8/144B clone) was carried out in the cases of AGA.

Results

The sebaceous gland area of the AGA group was noticeably increased, while the size of each sebaceous gland remains unchanged. It has more lobules in the hair follicular unit in the AGA population. In the immunohistochemistry, the follicular stem cells are present in the bulge regions in cases of AGA.

Conclusions

The overgrowth (multilobulation) of the sebaceous gland and relative preservation of the follicular stem cells suggest that the changes in the sebaceous gland could be an important factor in the pathology of AGA.
Regulatory approval and a first‐in‐human phase I clinical trial of a monoclonal antibody produced in transgenic tobacco plants
Authors: Ma Julian K‐C. , Drossard Jürgen , Lewis David , Altmann Friedrich , Boyle Julia , Christou Paul , Cole Tom , Dale Philip , van Dolleweerd Craig J. , Isitt Valerie , Katinger Dietmar , Lobedan Martin , Mertens Hubert , Paul Mathew J. , Rademacher Thomas , Sack Markus , Hundleby Penelope A. C. , Stiegler Gabriela , Stoger Eva , Twyman Richard M. , Vcelar Brigitta , Fischer Rainer
Published: July 2015

Although plant biotechnology has been widely investigated for the production of clinical‐grade monoclonal antibodies, no antibody products derived from transgenic plants have yet been approved by pharmaceutical regulators for clinical testing. In the Pharma‐Planta project, the HIV‐neutralizing human monoclonal antibody 2G12 was expressed in transgenic tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum). The scientific, technical and regulatory demands of good manufacturing practice (GMP) were addressed by comprehensive molecular characterization of the transgene locus, confirmation of genetic and phenotypic stability over several generations of transgenic plants, and by establishing standard operating procedures for the creation of a master seed bank, plant cultivation, harvest, initial processing, downstream processing and purification. The project developed specifications for the plant‐derived antibody (P2G12) as an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) based on (i) the guidelines for the manufacture of monoclonal antibodies in cell culture systems; (ii) the draft European Medicines Agency Points to Consider document on quality requirements for APIs produced in transgenic plants; and (iii) de novo guidelines developed with European national regulators. From the resulting process, a GMP manufacturing authorization was issued by the competent authority in Germany for transgenic plant‐derived monoclonal antibodies for use in a phase I clinical evaluation. Following preclinical evaluation and ethical approval, a clinical trial application was accepted by the UK national pharmaceutical regulator. A first‐in‐human, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized, dose‐escalation phase I safety study of a single vaginal administration of P2G12 was carried out in healthy female subjects. The successful completion of the clinical trial marks a significant milestone in the commercial development of plant‐derived pharmaceutical proteins.
Commercialization of new biotechnology: a systematic review of 16 commercial case studies in a novel manufacturing sector
Authors: Paul Matthew J. , Thangaraj Harry , Ma Julian K.‐C.
Published: July 2015

The 1980s and 1990s saw a major expansion of biotechnology into new areas of science including genomics and recombinant technologies. This was coupled to the widespread emergence of academics into the commercial sector as they were encouraged to spin out companies or commercialize their intellectual property. There were many opportunities to raise investment, and extraordinary success stories were prominent across many areas of technology. The field of plant biotechnology for manufacturing recombinant pharmaceuticals (molecular pharming) emerged and was developed in this period. Like other biotechnologies, this was an exciting new development which offered some very obvious benefits and commercial advantages. In particularly, plant molecular pharming represented a highly novel and potentially disruptive manufacturing technology for recombinant proteins. Twenty‐five years on, a series of interviews with senior members of sixteen of the most prominent companies involved in the field provides insight into the original drivers for commercialization, strategic thinking and planning behind key commercial decisions and an insider view into the major reasons for commercial success or failure. These observations and recurring themes identified across a number of commercial ventures remain relevant today, as new biotech companies continue to spin out of the world of academia.
ZmMBD101 is a DNA‐binding protein that maintains Mutator elements chromatin in a repressive state in maize
Authors: Questa Julia I. , Rius Sebastián P. , Casadevall Romina , Casati Paula
Published: July 2015

Here, we have characterized a maize chromatin protein, ZmMBD101, which is involved in the regulation of Mutator transposon genes in maize. ZmMBD101 is localized to the nucleus and binds both methylated and unmethylated DNA. mbd101 RNAi maize plants have Mutator elements chromatin in a less repressive state, in particular under UV‐B conditions. In addition, we present evidence for a biological role of a monocot MBD protein.
ASG2 is a farnesylated DWD protein that acts as ABA negative regulator in Arabidopsis
Authors: Dutilleul Christelle , Ribeiro Iliana , Blanc Nathalie , Nezames Cynthia D. , Deng Xing Wang , Zglobicki Piotr , Palacio Barrera Ana María , Atehortùa Lucia , Courtois Martine , Labas Valérie , Giglioli‐Guivarc'h Nathalie , Ducos Eric
Published: July 2015

The tagging‐via‐substrate approach designed for the capture of mammal prenylated proteins was adapted to Arabidopsis cell culture. In this way, proteins are in vivo tagged with an azide‐modified farnesyl moiety and captured thanks to biotin alkyne Click‐iT® chemistry with further streptavidin‐affinity chromatography. Mass spectrometry analyses identified four small GTPases and ASG2 (ALTERED SEED GERMINATION 2), a protein previously associated to the seed germination gene network. ASG2 is a conserved protein in plants and displays a unique feature that associates WD40 domains and tetratricopeptide repeats. Additionally, we show that ASG2 has a C‐terminal CaaX‐box that is farnesylated in vitro. Protoplast transfections using CaaX prenyltransferase mutants show that farnesylation provokes ASG2 nucleus exclusion. Moreover, ASG2 interacts with DDB1 (DAMAGE DNA BINDING protein 1), and the subcellular localization of this complex depends on ASG2 farnesylation status. Finally, germination and root elongation experiments reveal that asg2 and the farnesyltransferase mutant era1 (ENHANCED RESPONSE TO ABSCISIC ACID (ABA) 1) behave in similar manners when exposed to ABA or salt stress. To our knowledge, ASG2 is the first farnesylated DWD (DDB1 binding WD40) protein related to ABA response in Arabidopsis that may be linked to era1 phenotypes.
Photoreceptors in Chemotrophic Prokaryotes: The Case of Acinetobacter spp. Revisited
Authors: Nudel Clara B. , Hellingwerf Klaas J.
Published: July 2015

A comprehensive description of blue light using flavin (BLUF) photosensory proteins, including preferred domain architectures and the molecular mechanism of their light activation and signal generation, among chemotrophic prokaryotes is presented. Light‐regulated physiological responses in Acinetobacter spp. from environmental and clinically relevant strains are discussed. The twitching motility response in A. baylyi sp. ADP1 and the joint involvement of three of the four putative BLUF‐domain‐containing proteins in this response, in this species, is presented as an example of remarkable photoreceptor redundancy.
International Intercomparison of Solar UVR Spectral Measurement Systems in Melbourne in 2013
Authors: Gies Peter , Hooke Rebecca , McKenzie Richard , O'Hagan John , Henderson Stuart , Pearson Andy , Khazova Marina , Javorniczky John , King Kerryn , Tully Matt , Kotkamp Michael , Forgan Bruce , Rhodes Stephen
Published: July 2015

Monitoring ambient solar UVR levels provides information on how much there is in both real time and historically. Quality assurance of ambient measurements of solar UVR is critical to ensuring accuracy and stability and this can be achieved by regular intercomparisons of spectral measurement systems with those of other organizations. In October and November of 2013 a solar UVR spectroradiometer from Public Health England (PHE) was brought to Melbourne for a campaign of intercomparisons with a new Bentham spectrometer of Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) and one at the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), supported by New Zealand's National Institute for Water and Atmosphere (NIWA). Given all three spectroradiometers have calibrations that are traceable to various national standards, the intercomparison provides a chance to determine measurement uncertainties and traceability that support UV measurement networks in Australia, New Zealand and the UK. UV Index measurements from all three systems were compared and ratios determined for clear sky conditions when the scans from each instrument were within 2 min of each other. While wavelengths below 305 nm showed substantial differences between the PHE unit and the two other systems, overall the intercomparison results were encouraging, with mean differences in measured UV Index between the BOM/NIWA and those of PHE and ARPANSA of <0.1% and 7.5%, respectively.
Taxing Fracking: The Politics of State Severance Taxes in the Shale Era
Authors: Rabe Barry G. , Hampton Rachel L.
Published: July 2015

States producing gas and oil have long levied severance taxes at the point of extraction, commonly placing most revenues into general funds. These taxes have assumed new meaning in many states amid the expansion of gas and oil production accompanying the advent of hydraulic fracturing. We reviewed all major statutes and constitutional amendments related to severance taxes that were enacted at the state level during the first decade of the “shale era” (2005–14). There have been only modest adjustments in statutory tax rates and some evidence that states have attempted to reduce these rates, possibly in response to growing national production. In turn, there is also evidence that states have begun to pursue more targeted strategies for revenue use, including some expanded focus on responding to the negative externalities linked to drilling, expanded revenue sharing with localities, and increased long‐term protection of resources through state trust funds.
Focusing Events and Changes in Ecologies of Policy Games: Evidence from the Paraná River Delta
Authors: Berardo Ramiro , Olivier Tomás , Lavers Anthony
Published: July 2015

Solving environmental problems on a regional scale demands joint efforts by multiple stakeholders, but coordinating such efforts can be difficult in complex governance systems. In this article, we combine the literature in Adaptive Governance with the Ecology of Policy Games (EPGs) framework to enhance our understanding of how complex governance systems react to environmental focusing events. We study the EPGs in the Paraná River delta in Argentina following widespread fires caused by slash‐and‐burn practices in 2008, and analyze how new forums created to address the consequences of this event differ from the forums created prior to the event in terms of their capacity to attract stakeholders and to provide higher interconnectivity to the whole governance system. Furthermore, we offer an initial evaluation of the Comprehensive Strategic Plan for the Conservation and Sustainability of the Paraná River delta, the main forum in the EPGs created to address the negative consequences of the focusing event. Finally, we discuss the implications of our findings for the study of complex governance systems where stakeholders are able to address the management of natural resources at a regional scale.
Risk Analysis of Nanomaterials: Exposing Nanotechnology's Naked Emperor
Authors: Miller Georgia , Wickson Fern
Published: July 2015

Risk analysis (encompassing risk assessment, management, and communication) is touted internationally as the most appropriate approach for governing nanomaterials. In this article, we survey existing criticisms of risk assessment as a basis for regulatory decision making on emerging technologies, particularly highlighting its exclusion of key societal dimensions, its epistemological underdetermination, and its lack of democratic accountability. We then review the specific case of nanomaterials and identify six major barriers to the effective operation of both risk assessment and risk management. These include a lack of: nano‐specific regulatory requirements, shared definitions, validated and accessible methods for safety testing, available scientific knowledge, reliable information on commercial use, and capacity for exposure mitigation. Finding the knowledge, standards, methods, tools, definitions, capacity, and political commitment all insufficient, we argue that risk analysis is a “naked emperor” for nanomaterial governance. We therefore suggest that additional concepts and approaches are essential for nanomaterials policy and regulation.
Political Competition, Agenda Power, and Incentives to Innovate: An Empirical Examination of Vested‐Interest Theory
Authors: Balalaeva Dina
Published: July 2015

Technological innovations are by no means Pareto‐improving. I build on the argument that incumbent innovators can use political means to block rival innovations by emphasizing that the competitiveness of political system and some political institutions may diminish their ability to do so. I specify an institutional mechanism of agenda power, which provides newcomers with an improved ability to enter the game. The number of agenda power holders varies significantly among political systems, electoral systems, and administrative structures. With a sample of about 100 countries and across 20 years I show that politically competitive regimes, majoritarian electoral rules, and federal structures supply more holders of agenda power in comparison to their counterparts and, other things being equal, produce more innovations.
Cultural Policy and Governance: Reviewing Policies Related to Cultural and Creative Industries Implemented by the Central Government of Taiwan Between 2002 and 2012
Authors: Lee Chang Bin
Published: July 2015

Cultural and creative industries have exhibited rapid changes in recent years, and public sectors worldwide have expanded interest in policies related to these industries as a means of promoting culture, innovation, and economic vitality. This article argues that the cultural values promoted by and economic significance of cultural and creative sectors are essential to the formation of policy and to the development of new industries. This article offers insight into cultural policy that has governed regional and local development, and addresses academic debates about policy related to cultural and creative industries based on several cultural, economic, and geographical factors. In addition, this article presents the results of analyzing various theories and case studies, based on how the Central Government of Taiwan (CGT) has adopted policies to promote cultural and creative industries. The research results link areas of cultural and economic development with policies enacted by the CGT. Ideas concerning the cultural ministry, industrial development, civic boosterism, subsidies, regional development, creative clusters, tourists and tourism businesses, and export markets are areas of emphasis in this study.
Truncated Linear Models for Functional Data
Authors: Hall Peter , Hooker Giles
Published: July 2015

A conventional linear model for functional data involves expressing a response variable Y in terms of the explanatory function X (t), via the model Y=a+∫Ib(t)X(t)dt+error, where a is a scalar, b is an unknown function and I=[0,α] is a compact interval. However, in some problems the support of b or X, I1 say, is a proper and unknown subset of I, and is a quantity of particular practical interest. Motivated by a real data example involving particulate emissions, we develop methods for estimating I1. We give particular emphasis to the case I1=[0,θ], where θ ∈ (0, α], and suggest two methods for estimating a, b and θ jointly; we introduce techniques for selecting tuning parameters; and we explore properties of our methodology by using both simulation and the real data example mentioned above. Additionally, we derive theoretical properties of the methodology and discuss implications of the theory. Our theoretical arguments give particular emphasis to the problem of identifiability.
Anaphylactic Shock at the End of Hemodialysis
Authors: Aziz Nivin , Luna Carla , Mirza Farheen , Tobin Mary
Published: July 2015

Allergic reactions to epoetin alfa, including anaphylaxis, have been described but desensitization in the setting of an IgE‐mediated reaction has not been reported. We present a case of a hemodialysis patient who developed symptoms of an IgE‐mediated allergic response to epoetin alfa that occurred after each administration. These reactions progressed to a single episode of anaphylaxis with generalized pruritus, urticaria, oropharyngeal edema, and hypotension that prompted its discontinuation. Intradermal skin testing confirmed an allergic response to this agent. The patient then underwent a desensitization procedure to epoetin alpha after which she was able to tolerate it without further problems.
Movement and deletion after syntax: Licensing by inflection reconsidered
Authors: Saab Andrés , Lipták Anikó
Published: July 2015

In this paper we study the interaction between ellipsis and inflectional morphology and put forward a generalization about ellipsis blocking the application of some morphological operations. Working in the Distributed Morphology framework, we will demonstrate this generalization in the realm ofNPellipsis. We will show thatNPellipsis can lead to stranded affix filter violations, and that there are various strategies languages can resort to in order to resolve problems of convergence that stranded affixes cause at thePFinterface. The resolution of the stranded affix filter configuration is responsible for the well‐known observation that heads precedingNPellipsis sites need to show overt inflection in languages that inflect these heads (Lobeck 1995).
Ocular bartonellosis in transplant recipients: two case reports and review of the literature
Authors: Lee R.A. , Ray M. , Kasuga D.T. , Kumar V. , Witherspoon C.D. , Baddley J.W.
Published: July 2015

Cat scratch disease is caused by Bartonella henselae and usually manifests as localized lymphadenopathy and fever in immunocompetent patients. Immunocompromised patients are at risk for developing disseminated disease affecting the liver, spleen, eyes, central nervous system, and other organs. Bartonellosis is infrequently reported in solid organ transplant recipients, and published case reports usually discuss disseminated infection. Localized ocular disease with B. henselae, while well documented in immunocompetent hosts, is uncommon in immunocompromised patients. Herein, we present 2 cases of ocular bartonellosis in renal transplant patients, 1 with disseminated infection, and 1 without.
Innovation and Trade Policy Coordination: The Role of Firm Heterogeneity
Authors: Navas Antonio , Sala Davide
Published: July 2015

Recent studies have concluded that R&D grants can induce firms to export and that exporting and innovating can be complementary activities at the firm level. Yet the trade literature has paid little attention to the scope of innovation policy as a stimulus to both trade and innovation. To investigate this question, we rely on a general workhorse model of trade and firm heterogeneity with firm investments in R&D activities. The interplay of innovation and trade policies uncover novel results. In particular, we show that the effects of either policy depend on the degree of protectionism in a country. Therefore, countries can respond differently to the same policy, and similarly to different policies. In such a context, different governments may face different trade‐offs in achieving a given target.
Anterior ocular abnormalities of captive Asian elephants (Elephas maximus indicus) in Thailand
Authors: Kraiwong Natapong , Sanyathitiseree Pornchai , Boonprasert Khajohnpat , Diskul Phiphatanachatr , Charoenphan Patara , Pintawong Weerasak , Thayananuphat Aree
Published: July 2015

Objective

To survey and classify anterior ocular abnormalities in 1478 captive Asian elephants (Elephas maximus indicus) in six regions of Thailand.

Methods

Anterior ocular examination was performed in both eyes (n = 2956) of 1478 elephants selected from the annual health check program involving 2958 animals within six regions of Thailand from January to November 2013. Lesions were described and compared between age and gender.

Results

A total of 17.83% (527/2956) of examined eyes from 24.97% (369/1478) of examined elephants had anterior ocular abnormalities. The most common lesions in these examined eyes were frothy ocular discharge (5.85%), corneal edema (5.31%), and conjunctivitis (5.18%). In addition, epiphora, phthisis bulbi, other corneal abnormalities, anterior uveitis, and lens abnormalities were noted. Almost all lesions increased in frequency with age (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Regular ophthalmic examination in elephants should be included in their annual health check program. Early detection and treatment of any ocular abnormality may avoid the development of subsequent irreversible ocular pathology.
Evaluation of a Novel Screw Position in a Type III Distal Phalanx Fracture Model: An Ex Vivo Study
Authors: Bindler Dorian , Koch Christoph , Gendron Karine , Ferguson Stephen J. , Kaposi Andras D. , Papp Miklos , Bodó Gábor
Published: July 2015

Objective

Mechanical evaluation of a novel screw position used for repair in a type III distal phalanx fracture model and assessment of solar canal penetration (SCP).

Study Design

Experimental study.

Sample Population

Disarticulated equine hooves (n = 24) and 24 isolated distal phalanges.

Methods

Hooves/distal phalanges cut in a sagittal plane were repaired with 1 of 2 different cortical screw placements in lag fashion. In group 1 (conventional screw placement), the screw was inserted halfway between the proximal border of the solar canal (SC) and the subchondral bone surface on a line parallel to the dorsal cortex, whereas in group 2, the screw was inserted more palmar/plantar, where a perpendicular line drawn from the group 1 position reached the palmar/plantar cortex. Construct strength was evaluated by 3‐point bending to failure. SCP was assessed by CT imaging and macroscopically.

Results

Screws were significantly longer in group 2 and in forelimbs. Group 2 isolated distal phalanges had a significantly more rigid fixation compared with the conventional screw position (maximum point at failure 31%, bending stiffness 41% higher). Lumen reduction of the SC was observed in 13/52 specimens (all from group 2), of which 9 were forelimbs.

Conclusions

More distal screw positioning compared with the conventionally recommended screw position for internal fixation of type III distal phalangeal fractures allows placement of a longer screw and renders a more rigid fracture fixation. The novel screw position, however, carries a higher risk of SCP.
Effect of Regeneration Section Angle on the Performance of a Rotary Desiccant Wheel
Authors: Muthu Selvaraji , Talukdar Prabal , Jain Sanjeev
Published: July 2015

In this work, the governing equations of coupled heat and mass transfer are developed based on the conservation of energy and moisture in air and desiccant layer of a rotary desiccant wheel in order to consider both the solid-side resistance (SSR) and gas-side resistance (GSR). The simulations are done for composite desiccant and conventional silica gel. The properties of air and desiccant are taken as function of temperature in the adsorption and regeneration sections. The governing partial differential equations are discretized using the finite-volume method with fully implicit scheme and the resulting system of algebraic equations is solved using the Gauss–Seidel method. The model is validated for the moisture removal capacity and relative moisture removal efficiency by comparing the present results with the literature data. The parametric simulations are performed by varying one parameter at a time with the angle of regeneration section kept in a range from 60 deg to 300 deg. The selection of regeneration section angle and temperature of regeneration air is discussed for operating the rotary desiccant wheel at its optimum performance for the range of operating conditions.
Self-Excited Vibrational Cantilever-Type Viscometer Driven by Piezo-Actuator
Authors: Higashino Keiichi , Yabuno Hiroshi , Aono Kazuhiko , Yamamoto Yasuyuki , Kuroda Masaharu
Published: July 2015

The design and operation of new viscometers are often presented with a focus on the miniaturization of the device and online monitoring of small amounts of liquid samples. The vibrational viscometers commonly used for viscosity measurements exploit the peak value of the frequency-response curve obtained from excitations of the oscillator submerged in the liquid. However, for high-viscosity liquids, the peak of the frequency-response curve is ambiguous or nonexistent, and hence hard to measure. To overcome this drawback and with a view to miniaturizing the device, we use the self-excited oscillations produced by a velocity feedback control. Our design uses a viscometer employing a cantilever driven by a piezo-actuator with analytics that do not rely on the frequency-response curve. A prototype piezo-driven macrocantilever with an oscillating plate attached at its tip was experimentally performed according to specifications. The proposed mechanism can be integrated into microelectromechanical systems (MEMS).
A Lagrangian Approach for Calculating Microsphere Deposition in a One-Dimensional Lung-Airway Model
Authors: Vaish Mayank , Kleinstreuer Clement
Published: July 2015

Using the open-source software openfoam as the solver, a novel approach to calculate microsphere transport and deposition in a 1D human lung-equivalent trumpet model (TM) is presented. Specifically, for particle deposition in a nonlinear trumpetlike configuration a new radial force has been developed which, along with the regular drag force, generates particle trajectories toward the wall. The new semi-empirical force is a function of any given inlet volumetric flow rate, micron-particle diameter, and lung volume. Particle-deposition fractions (DFs) in the size range from 2 μm to 10 μm are in agreement with experimental datasets for different laminar and turbulent inhalation flow rates as well as total volumes. Typical run times on a single processor workstation to obtain actual total deposition results at comparable accuracy are 200 times less than that for an idealized whole-lung geometry (i.e., a 3D–1D model with airways up to 23rd generation in single-path only).
The Single-Incision Sling to Treat Female Stress Urinary Incontinence: A Dynamic Computational Study of Outcomes and Risk Factors
Authors: Peng Yun , Khavari Rose , Nakib Nissrine A. , Stewart Julie N. , Boone Timothy B. , Zhang Yingchun
Published: July 2015

Dynamic behaviors of the single-incision sling (SIS) to correct urethral hypermobility are investigated via dynamic biomechanical analysis using a computational model of the female pelvis, developed from a female subject's high-resolution magnetic resonance (MR) images. The urethral hypermobility is simulated by weakening the levator ani muscle in the pelvic model. Four positions along the posterior urethra (proximal, midproximal, middle, and mid-distal) were considered for sling implantation. The α-angle, urethral excursion angle, and sling–urethra interaction force generated during Valsalva maneuver were quantitatively characterized to evaluate the effect of the sling implantation position on treatment outcomes and potential complications. Results show concern for overcorrection with a sling implanted at the bladder neck, based on a relatively larger sling–urethra interaction force of 1.77 N at the proximal implantation position (compared with 0.25 N at mid-distal implantation position). A sling implanted at the mid-distal urethral location provided sufficient correction (urethral excursion angle of 23.8 deg after mid-distal sling implantation versus 24.4 deg in the intact case) with minimal risk of overtightening and represents the optimal choice for sling surgery. This study represents the first effort utilizing a comprehensive pelvic model to investigate the performance of an implanted sling to correct urethral hypermobility. The computational modeling approach presented in the study can also be used to advance presurgery planning, sling product design, and to enhance our understanding of various surgical risk factors which are difficult to obtain in clinical practice.
Analytical-Solution Based Corner Correction for Transient Thermal Measurement
Authors: Jiang H. , Chen W. , Zhang Q. , He L.
Published: July 2015

The one-dimensional (1D) conduction analytical approaches for a semi-infinite domain, widely adopted in the data processing of transient thermal experiments, can lead to large errors, especially near a corner of solid domain. The problems could be addressed by adopting 2D/3D numerical solutions (finite element analysis (FEA) or computational fluid dynamics (CFD)) of the solid field. In addition to needing the access to a conduction solver and extra computing effort, the numerical field solution based processing methods often require extra experimental efforts to obtain full thermal boundary conditions around corners. On a more fundamental note, it would be highly preferable that the experimental data processing is completely free of any numerical solutions and associated discretization errors, not least because it is often the case that the main purposes of many experimental measurements are exactly to validate the numerical solution methods themselves. In the present work, an analytical-solution based method is developed to enable the correction of the 2D conduction errors in a corner region without using any conduction solvers. The new approach is based on the recognition that a temperature time trace in a 2D corner situation is the result of the accumulated heat conductions in both the normal and lateral directions. An equivalent semi-infinite 1D conduction temperature trace for a correct heat transfer coefficient (HTC) can then be generated by reconstructing and removing the lateral conduction component at each time step. It is demonstrated that this simple correction technique enables the use of the standard 1D conduction analysis to get the correct HTC completely analytically without any aid of CFD or FEA solutions. In addition to a transient infrared (IR) thermal measurement case, two numerical test cases of practical interest with turbine blade tip heat transfer and film cooling are used for validation and demonstration. It has been consistently shown that the errors of the conventional 1D conduction analysis in the near corner regions can be greatly reduced by the new corner correction method.
Topology Optimization, Additive Layer Manufacturing, and Experimental Testing of an Air-Cooled Heat Sink
Authors: Dede Ercan M. , Joshi Shailesh N. , Zhou Feng
Published: July 2015

Topology optimization of an air-cooled heat sink considering heat conduction plus side-surface convection is presented. The optimization formulation is explained along with multiple design examples. A postprocessing procedure is described to synthesize manifold or “water-tight” solid model computer-aided design (CAD) geometry from three-dimensional (3D) point-cloud data extracted from the optimization result. Using this process, a heat sink is optimized for confined jet impingement air cooling. A prototype structure is fabricated out of AlSi12 using additive layer manufacturing (ALM). The heat transfer and fluid flow performance of the optimized heat sink are experimentally evaluated, and the results are compared with benchmark plate and pin-fin heat sink geometries that are conventionally machined out of aluminum and copper. In two separate test cases, the experimental results indicate that the optimized ALM heat sink design has a higher coefficient of performance (COP) relative to the benchmark heat sink designs.
An Investigation of Key Design for Additive Manufacturing Constraints in Multimaterial Three-Dimensional Printing
Authors: Meisel Nicholas , Williams Christopher
Published: July 2015

The PolyJet material jetting process is uniquely qualified to create complex, multimaterial structures. However, key manufacturing constraints need to be explored and understood in order to guide designers in their use of the PolyJet process including (1) minimum manufacturable feature size, (2) removal of support material, (3) survivability of small features, and (4) the self-supporting angle in the absence of support material. The authors use a design of experiments (DOE) approach to identify the statistical significance of geometric and process parameters and to quantify the relationship between these significant parameters and part manufacturability. The results from this study include the identification of key variables, relationships, and quantitative design thresholds necessary to establish a preliminary set of design for additive manufacturing (DfAM) guidelines for material jetting. Experimental design studies such as the one in this paper are crucial to provide designers with the knowledge to ensure that their proposed designs are manufacturable with the PolyJet process, whether designed manually or by an automated method, such as topology optimization (TO).
Patient-Specific Clavicle Reconstruction Using Digital Design and Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Cronskär Marie , Rännar Lars-Erik , Bäckström Mikael , Nilsson Kjell G , Samuelsson Börje
Published: July 2015

There is a trend toward operative treatment for certain types of clavicle fractures and these are usually treated with plate osteosynthesis. The subcutaneous location of the clavicle makes the plate fit important, but the clavicle has a complex shape, which varies greatly between individuals and hence standard plates often have a poor fit. Using computed tomography (CT) based design, the plate contour and screw positioning can be optimized to the actual case. A method for patient-specific plating using design based on CT-data, additive manufacturing (AM), and postprocessing was initially evaluated through three case studies, and the plate fit on the reduced fracture was tested during surgery (then replaced by commercial plates). In all three cases, the plates had an adequate fit on the reduced fracture. The time span from CT scan of the fracture to final implant was two days. An approach to achieve functional design and screw-hole positioning was initiated. These initial trials of patient-specific clavicle plating using AM indicate the potential for a smoother plate with optimized screw positioning. Further, the approach facilitates the surgeon's work and operating time can be saved.
Design for Fiber-Reinforced Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Prüß Hauke , Vietor Thomas
Published: July 2015

The continuously decreasing life cycle of modern products leads to new challenges for product development. Additive manufacturing (AM) processes are able to support faster development by rapid production of samples and prototypes. However, the material properties of components produced by common (plastic-) 3D-printers are often insufficient for functional prototyping. A well-established way to improve the properties of plastics is the embedding of reinforcing fibers. Thus, this paper shows a method for fiber-reinforced 3D-printing. Through this combination, several restrictions of conventional composite production can be eased and additional freedoms of design are gained. To support the design of such parts, an adapted design methodology for fiber-reinforced 3D-printing is developed.
Level Set Topology Optimization of Printed Active Composites
Authors: Maute Kurt , Tkachuk Anton , Wu Jiangtao , Jerry Qi H. , Ding Zhen , Dunn Martin L.
Published: July 2015

Multimaterial polymer printers allow the placement of different material phases within a composite, where some or all of the materials may exhibit an active response. Utilizing the shape memory (SM) behavior of at least one of the material phases, active composites can be three-dimensional (3D) printed such that they deform from an initially flat plate into a curved structure. This paper introduces a topology optimization approach for finding the spatial arrangement of shape memory polymers (SMPs) within a passive matrix such that the composite assumes a target shape. The optimization approach combines a level set method (LSM) for describing the material layout and a generalized formulation of the extended finite-element method (XFEM) for predicting the response of the printed active composite (PAC). This combination of methods yields optimization results that can be directly printed without the need for additional postprocessing steps. Two multiphysics PAC models are introduced to describe the response of the composite. The models differ in the level of accuracy in approximating the residual strains generated by a thermomechanical programing process. Comparing XFEM predictions of the two PAC models against experimental results suggests that the models are sufficiently accurate for design purposes. The proposed optimization method is studied with examples where the target shapes correspond to a plate-bending type deformation and to a localized deformation. The optimized designs are 3D printed and the XFEM predictions are compared against experimental measurements. The design studies demonstrate the ability of the proposed optimization method to yield a crisp and highly resolved description of the optimized material layout that can be realized by 3D printing. As the complexity of the target shape increases, the optimal spatial arrangement of the material phases becomes less intuitive, highlighting the advantages of the proposed optimization method.
A Generalized Optimality Criteria Method for Optimization of Additively Manufactured Multimaterial Lattice Structures
Authors: Stanković Tino , Mueller Jochen , Egan Paul , Shea Kristina
Published: July 2015

Recent progress in additive manufacturing (AM) allows for printing customized products with multiple materials and complex geometries that could form the basis of multimaterial designs with high performance and novel functions. Effectively designing such complex products for optimal performance within the confines of AM constraints is challenging due to the need to consider fabrication constraints while searching for optimal designs with a large number of variables, which stem from new AM capabilities. In this study, fabrication constraints are addressed through empirically characterizing multiple printed materials' Young's modulus and density using a multimaterial inkjet-based 3D-printer. Data curves are modeled for the empirical data describing two base printing materials and 12 mixtures of them as inputs for a computational optimization process. An optimality criteria (OC) method is developed to search for solutions of multimaterial lattices with fixed topology and truss cross section sizes. Two representative optimization studies are presented and demonstrate higher performance with multimaterial approaches in comparison to using a single material. These include the optimization of a cubic lattice structure that must adhere to a fixed displacement constraint and a compliant beam lattice structure that must meet multiple fixed displacement constraints. Results demonstrate the feasibility of the approach as a general synthesis and optimization method for multimaterial, lightweight lattice structures that are large-scale and manufacturable on a commercial AM printer directly from the design optimization results.
Design Framework for Multifunctional Additive Manufacturing: Placement and Routing of Three-Dimensional Printed Circuit Volumes
Authors: Panesar A. , Brackett D. , Ashcroft I. , Wildman R. , Hague R.
Published: July 2015

A framework for the design of additively manufactured (AM) multimaterial parts with embedded functional systems is presented (e.g., structure with electronic/electrical components and associated conductive paths). Two of the key strands of this proposed framework are placement and routing strategies, which consist of techniques to exploit the true-3D design freedoms of multifunctional AM (MFAM) to create 3D printed circuit volumes (PCVs). Example test cases are presented, which demonstrate the appropriateness and effectiveness of the proposed techniques. The aim of the proposed design framework is to enable exploitation of the rapidly developing capabilities of multimaterial AM.
Enhancing the Structural Performance of Additively Manufactured Objects Through Build Orientation Optimization
Authors: Ulu Erva , Korkmaz Emrullah , Yay Kubilay , Burak Ozdoganlar O. , Burak Kara Levent
Published: July 2015

Additively manufactured objects often exhibit directional dependencies in their structure due to the layered nature of the printing process. While this dependency has a significant impact on the object's functional performance, the problem of finding the best build orientation to maximize structural robustness remains largely unsolved. We introduce an optimization algorithm that addresses this issue by identifying the build orientation that maximizes the factor of safety (FS) of an input object under prescribed loading and boundary configurations. First, we conduct a minimal number of physical experiments to characterize the anisotropic material properties. Next, we use a surrogate-based optimization method to determine the build orientation that maximizes the minimum factor safety. The surrogate-based optimization starts with a small number of finite element (FE) solutions corresponding to different build orientations. The initial solutions are progressively improved with the addition of new solutions until the optimum orientation is computed. We demonstrate our method with physical experiments on various test models from different categories. We evaluate the advantages and limitations of our method by comparing the failure characteristics of parts printed in different orientations.
Genome-environment associations in sorghum landraces predict adaptive traits
Authors: Lasky Jesse R. , Upadhyaya Hari D. , Ramu Punna , Deshpande Santosh , Hash C. Tom , Bonnette Jason , Juenger Thomas E. , Hyma Katie , Acharya Charlotte , Mitchell Sharon E. , Buckler Edward S. , Brenton Zachary , Kresovich Stephen , Morris Geoffrey P.
Published: July 2015

Genome-environment associations and phenotypic analyses may reveal the basis of environmental adaptation.
Memcomputing
NP
-complete problems in polynomial time using polynomial resources and collective states
Authors: Traversa Fabio Lorenzo , Ramella Chiara , Bonani Fabrizio , Di Ventra Massimiliano
Published: July 2015

Demonstration of computing with memory points to a new route for solving hard problems faster.
Geologist reflects on life behind bars in China
Authors: Matacic Catherine
Published: July 2015

Chinese-American specialist on oil industry had run afoul of China's secrecy laws.
Politics doesn't always rule
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey
Published: July 2015

Ideology is just one factor shaping views on science issues.
Ten things we have to do to achieve precision medicine
Authors: Kohane Isaac S.
Published: July 2015

Major but surmountable hurdles should be addressed now to hasten the advent of precision medicine.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Rhodococcus
sp. Strain IcdP1 Shows Diverse Catabolic Potential
Authors: Qu Jie , Miao Li-Li , Liu Ying , Liu Zhi-Pei
Published: July 2015

The complete genome sequence of
Rhodococcus
sp. strain IcdP1 is presented here. This organism was shown to degrade a broad range of high-molecular-weight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and organochlorine pesticides. The sequence data can be used to predict genes for xenobiotic biodegradation and metabolism.
Draft Genome Sequence of Salmonella enterica subsp.
enterica
Serovar Give, Isolated from an Imported Chili Powder Product
Authors: Wang Hua , Chen Yi , Ayers Sherry , Melka David , Laasri Anna , Payne Justin S. , Zheng Jie , Son Insook , Timme Ruth , Kastanis George , Hammack Thomas S. , Strain Errol , Allard Marc W. , Evans Peter S. , Brown Eric W.
Published: July 2015

We report the genome sequence of
Salmonella enterica
subsp.
enterica
serovar Give (CFSAN012622), isolated from imported chili powder in 2014. This genome contains genes previously reported to be specific only to
S. enterica
serovar Enteritidis. This strain shows a unique pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) pattern clustering with serovar Enteritidis (JEG X01.0005).