bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Injectable uncrosslinked biomimetic hydrogels as candidate scaffolds for neural stem cell delivery
Authors: Farrell Kurt , Joshi Jyotsna , Kothapalli Chandrasekhar R.
Published: November 2016

Mammalian central nervous system has a limited ability for self‐repair under diseased or injury conditions. Repair strategies focused on exogenously delivering autologous neural stem cells (NSCs) to replace lost neuronal populations and axonal pathways in situ, and promote endogenous repair mechanisms are gaining traction. Successful outcomes are contingent on selecting an appropriate delivery vehicle for injecting cells that promotes cell retention and survival, elicits differentiation to desired lineages, and enhances axonal outgrowth upon integration into the host tissue. Hydrogels made of varying compositions of collagen, laminin, hyaluronic acid (HA), and chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (CSPG) were developed, with no external crosslinking agents, to mimic the native extracellular matrix composition. The physical (porosity, pore‐size, gel integrity, swelling ratio, and enzymatic degradation), mechanical (viscosity, storage and loss moduli, Young's modulus, creep, and stress‐relaxation), and biological (cell survival, differentiation, neurite outgrowth, and integrin expression) characteristics of these hydrogels were assessed. These hydrogels exhibited excellent injectability, retained gel integrity, and matched the mechanical moduli of native brain tissue, possibly due to natural collagen fibril polymerization and physical‐crosslinking between HA molecules and collagen fibrils. Depending on the composition, these hydrogels promoted cell survival, neural differentiation, and neurite outgrowth, as evident from immunostaining and western blots. These cellular outcomes were facilitated by cellular binding via α6, β1, and CD44 surface integrins to these hydrogels. Results attest to the utility of uncrosslinked, ECM‐mimicking hydrogels to deliver NSCs for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 790–805, 2017.
Evaluation of corrosion resistance of implant‐use Ti‐Zr binary alloys with a range of compositions
Authors: Akimoto Teisuke , Ueno Takeshi , Tsutsumi Yusuke , Doi Hisashi , Hanawa Takao , Wakabayashi Noriyuki
Published: November 2016

Although titanium‐zirconium (Ti‐Zr) alloy has been adopted for clinical applications, the ideal proportion of Zr in the alloy has not been identified. In this study, we investigated the biocompatibility of Ti‐Zr alloy by evaluating its corrosion resistance to better understand whether there is an optimal range or value of Zr proportion in the alloy. We prepared pure Ti, Ti‐30Zr, Ti‐50Zr, Ti‐70Zr, and pure Zr (mol% of Zr) samples and subjected them to anodic polarization and immersion tests in a lactic acid + sodium chloride (NaCl) solution and artificial saliva. We observed pitting corrosion in the Ti‐70Zr and Zr after exposure to both solutions. After the immersion test, we found that pure Ti exhibited the greatest degree of dissolution in the lactic acid + NaCl solution, with the addition of Zr dramatically reducing Ti ion dissolution, with the reduction ultimately exceeding 90% in the case of the Ti‐30Zr. Hence, although the localized corrosion resistance under severe conditions was compromised when the Zr content was more than 70%, metal ion release reduced owing to Zr addition and the corresponding formation of a stable passive layer. The results suggest that Ti‐30Zr or a Zr proportion of less than 50% would offer an ideal level of corrosion resistance for clinical applications. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 73–79, 2018.
Limitation of the antibiotic‐eluting bone graft substitute: An example of gentamycin‐impregnated calcium sulfate
Authors: Wu Chang‐Chin , Huang Yang‐Kai , Chang Wei‐Jen , Wu Yun‐Ching , Wang Chen‐Chie , Yang Kai‐Chiang
Published: November 2016

Patients with inadequate volume of alveolar processes or bone defects commonly require graft substitutes in oral, maxillofacial or orthopedic surgery. Ridge augmentation and reconstruction of facial bony defects with bone graft materials achieve better outcomes in functional and aesthetic rehabilitation. The injectable calcium sulfate filler is used widely in intra‐operative applications. Calcium sulfate bone filler has been shown to upregulate bone formation‐related mRNA genes in vitro and improve osseointegration in vivo. In addition, the bone graft substitute can be used as a drug delivery system for antibiotics to treat or prevent infections based on the clinical experiences. However, the influences of antibiotics addition on the calcium sulfate are not fully understood. In this study, calcium sulfate impregnated with gentamycin in different weight ratios was characterized. The results showed that gentamycin prolonged the hydration process and extended initial/final setting times of calcium sulfate. The addition of gentamycin slowed the conversion from calcium sulfate hemihydrate to dihydrate and changed the crystalline phase and microstructure. Higher amounts of gentamycin added resulted in faster degradation and lower mechanical strength of calcium sulfate. This study reveals that the extended setting time, decreased compressive strength, and the accelerated degradation of the gentamycin‐impregnated calcium sulfate bone graft substitutes should be considered during intra‐operative applications. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 80–87, 2018.
Age- and Sex-Dependent Changes of Intra-articular Cortical and Trabecular Bone Structure and the Effects of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Simon David , Kleyer Arnd , Stemmler Fabian , Simon Christoph , Berlin Andreas , Hueber Axel J , Haschka Judith , Renner Nina , Figueiredo Camille , Neuhuber Winfried , Buder Thomas , Englbrecht Matthias , Rech Juergen , Engelke Klaus , Schett Georg
Published: November 2016

The objective of this cross-sectional study was to define normal sex- and age-dependent values of intra-articular bone mass and microstructures in the metacarpal heads of healthy individuals by high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) and test the effect of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) on these parameters. Human cadaveric metacarpal heads were used to exactly define intra-articular bone. Healthy individuals of different sex and age categories and RA patients with similar age and sex distribution received HR-pQCT scans of the second metacarpal head and the radius. Total, cortical, and trabecular bone densities as well as microstructural parameters were compared between 1) the different ages and sexes in healthy individuals; 2) between metacarpal heads and the radius; and 3) between healthy individuals and RA patients. The cadaveric study allowed exact definition of the intra-articular (intracapsular) bone margins. These data were applied in measuring intra-articular and radial bone parameters in 214 women and men (108 healthy individuals, 106 RA patients). Correlations between intra-articular and radial bone parameters were good (r = 0.51 to 0.62, p < 0.001). In contrast to radial bone, intra-articular bone remained stable until age 60 years (between 297 and 312 mg HA/cm3) but decreased significantly (p < 0.001) in women thereafter (237.5 ± 44.3) with loss of both cortical and trabecular bone. Similarly, RA patients showed significant (p < 0.001) loss of intra-articular total (263.0 ± 44.8), trabecular (171.2 ± 35.6), and cortical bone (610.2 ± 62.0) compared with sex- and age-adjusted controls. Standard sex- and age-dependent values for physiological intra-articular bone were defined. Postmenopausal state and RA led to significant decrease of intra-articular bone. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Anharmonic Effect of N‐Propyl Peroxy Dissociation
Authors: Song Liguo , Pan Xinxiang , Li Qian , Ding Yang , Yao Li , Lin Sheng‐Hsien
Published: November 2016

The anharmonic and harmonic dissociation rate constants of alkylperoxy (RO2) in different pathways, as well as those for the reactions of the n‐propyl peroxy radical, were calculated using the Rice–Ramsperger–Kassel–Marcus (RRKM) theory. When the temperature/total energy increased, the rate constants of the different pathways varied independently, causing changes in the dominating/leading products. Anharmonic rate constants were larger than harmonic rate constants, and their difference increased with increasing temperature/energy. Therefore, the anharmonic effect cannot be neglected. The rate‐determining steps of CH3CH2CH2OO dissociation are discussed. Then the anharmonic effect was found clearly for CH3CH2CH2OO dissociation, especially for the hydroperoxyalkyl radical (QOOH) dissociation. At low temperature, the rate constants were similar to those found from experiment, which indicated the RRKM theory was suitable for calculating the dissociation rates of RO2 species.
Suppression of muscle wasting by the plant‐derived compound ursolic acid in a model of chronic kidney disease
Authors: Yu Rizhen , Chen Ji‐an , Xu Jing , Cao Jin , Wang Yanlin , Thomas Sandhya S. , Hu Zhaoyong
Published: November 2016

Background

Muscle wasting in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and other catabolic disorders contributes to morbidity and mortality, and there are no therapeutic interventions that regularly and safely block losses of muscle mass. We have obtained evidence that impaired IGF‐1/insulin signalling and increases in glucocorticoids, myostatin and/or inflammatory cytokines that contribute to the development of muscle wasting in catabolic disorders by activating protein degradation.

Methods

Using in vitro and in vivo models of muscle wasting associated with CKD or dexamethasone administration, we measured protein synthesis and degradation and examined mechanisms by which ursolic acid, derived from plants, could block the loss of muscle mass stimulated by CKD or excessive levels of dexamethasone.

Results

Using cultured C2C12 myotubes to study muscle wasting, we found that exposure to glucocorticoids cause loss of cell proteins plus an increase in myostatin; both responses are significantly suppressed by ursolic acid. Results from promoter and ChIP assays demonstrated a mechanism involving ursolic acid blockade of myostatin promoter activity that is related to CEBP/δ expression. In mouse models of CKD‐induced or dexamethasone‐induced muscle wasting, we found that ursolic acid blocked the loss of muscle mass by stimulating protein synthesis and decreasing protein degradation. These beneficial responses included decreased expression of myostatin and inflammatory cytokines (e.g. TGF‐β, IL‐6 and TNFα), which are initiators of muscle‐specific ubiquitin‐E3 ligases (e.g. Atrogin‐1, MuRF‐1 and MUSA1).

Conclusions

Ursolic acid improves CKD‐induced muscle mass by suppressing the expression of myostatin and inflammatory cytokines via increasing protein synthesis and reducing proteolysis.
An Efficient Four‐component Reaction for the Synthesis of Spiroheterocyclic Compounds
Authors: Meng Qinghua , Xu Hui , Xu Jing , Hao Ganlu , Gao Xu , Hu Xiaoyu , Rong Liang‐Ce , Cai Peijun
Published: November 2016

A series of 6‐amino‐8‐aryl‐3,4‐dihydro‐1H‐spiro[naphthalene‐2,2'‐[1,3] dioxolane]‐5,7‐dicarbonitrile and 8‐arylidene‐4‐aryl‐7,8‐dihydro‐5H‐spiro[quinazoline‐6,2'‐[1,3] dioxolan]‐2‐amine derivatives have been synthesized from the reactions of 1,4‐dioxaspiro[4.5] decan‐8‐one, aromatic aldehydes, and malononitrile (or guanidine carbonate) under different conditions with high yields. In this research, it was found the DBU–THF was efficient reaction condition for obtaining 6‐amino‐8‐aryl‐3,4‐dihydro‐1H‐spiro[naphthalene‐2,2'‐[1,3]dioxolane]‐5,7‐dicarbonitrile derivatives, while 95% EtOH and NaOH was the preferred condition for the synthesis of 8‐rylidene‐4‐aryl‐7,8‐dihydro‐5H‐spiro[quinazoline‐6,2'‐[1,3]dioxolan]‐2‐amine derivatives. To the best of our knowledge, these Spiroheterocycles were first reported in our research. The other advantages of this process were short‐reaction time, wide scope substrates, and simple set‐up.
Biochemical and molecular characterization of a lipase from an Algerian isolatedStaphylococcus aureusstrain
Authors: Nehal Fatima , Jallouli Raida , Krayem Najeh , Bou Ali Madiha , Dilmi Bouras Abdelkader , Fendri Ahmed , Gargouri Youssef
Published: November 2016

AStaphylococcus aureusstrain, isolated from an Algerian biotope, secretes a non‐induced lipase in the culture medium. TheS. aureuslipase (SAL) was purified to homogeneity. Pure SAL is a monomeric protein (43 kDa). The 20 N‐terminal amino acid residues showed a high degree of homology with other staphylococcal lipase sequences. SAL presents specific activities of about 1600 and 555 U mg−1using tributyrin and olive oil emulsion as substrates, respectively. In contrast to other staphylococcal lipases previously characterized, SAL was stable at a pH range from 6 to 9 after 1 h incubation, and retained 50% of its activity after 10 min incubation at 50 °C. The purified enzyme was also characterized using monolayer technique. Lipase activity can be measured only when the surface pressure exceeds 15 mN m−1. The critical surface pressure (πc) measured with egg‐PC films was estimated at 33 mN m−1. SAL showed a preference for the distal ester groups of the diglyceride isomers at low surface pressure, for the adjacent ester groups at high surface pressure and a preference for thesn‐3position of the 2,3‐sn‐enantiomer of dicaprin. Cloned and sequenced gene part, encoding the mature lipase shows, in comparison withS. aureuslipase 3 (SAL3), a deletion of three residues (LKA) at the N‐terminal extremity and a substitution of glycine 208 and isoleucine 226 with an arginine and leucine, respectively.
Effect of microbial‐based inoculants on nutrient concentrations and early root morphology of corn (Zea mays)
Authors: Calvo Pamela , Watts Dexter B. , Kloepper Joseph W. , Torbert H. Allen
Published: November 2016

Microbial‐based inoculants have been reported to stimulate plant growth and nutrient uptake. However, their effect may vary depending on the growth stage when evaluated or fertilizer applied. Thus, the objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that microbial‐based inoculants known to promote root growth and nutrient uptake will promote plant growth, enhance early root development, and increase nutrient concentrations of corn (Zea maysL.). Plants were evaluated at four different growth stages and in the presence of three different nitrogen (N) fertilizers. The microbial‐based treatments evaluated were: SoilBuilder™ (SB), a filtered metabolite extract of SoilBuilder™ (SBF), a mixture of four strains of plant growth‐promotingBacillusspp (BM), and a water‐inoculated control. The experiment also included four fertilizer treatments: urea (U), urea‐ammonium nitrate (UAN), calcium‐ammonium nitrate (CAN), and an unfertilized control. Corn plants were evaluated at growth stages V2, V4, V6, and VT. Plant growth parameters for biomass, height, and SPAD readings were enhanced by the three microbial‐based treatments. A greater effect of microbial‐based treatments was observed when plants were evaluated at V6 and VT stages. Parameters of early root development such as total root length (TRL), root surface area (RSA), and length of fine roots were enhanced when microbial‐based treatments were applied. Concentrations of N, P, and K were also increased by microbial‐based treatments compared to the non‐inoculated control. Increases in plant N concentration due to microbial‐based treatments were on average 72% for CAN, 61% for UAN, 72% for urea, and 54% for the unfertilized control. Phosphorus concentration was increased most (138%) when BM was applied with CAN. In the same way, when CAN was present, K concentration was increased by 95% with BM and 65% when SB and SBF were applied. Overall, the results demonstrate that microbial‐based inoculants evaluated in this study can positively impact corn growth and nutrient concentration, especially during the late vegetative stages. Furthermore, the results indicate that the enhancement of nutrient concentrations (N, P, and K) in this case was related to the capacity of microbial‐based treatments to impact root morphology at early stages of corn growth.
Are perioperative allogeneic blood transfusions associated with 90‐days infection after operative treatment for bone metastases?
Authors: Paulino Pereira Nuno Rui , Langerhuizen David W.G. , Janssen Stein J. , Hornicek Francis J. , Ferrone Marco L. , Harris Mitchel B. , Schwab Joseph H.
Published: November 2016

Background and Objectives

We assessed whether allogeneic blood transfusions were associated with infection—within 90 days—after surgery for bone metastatic disease. Furthermore, we assessed other risk factors associated with infection.

Methods

We included 1,266 patients surgically treated for a bone metastasis at two hospitals between 2002 and 2013. Blood transfusions within 7 days before and after surgery were considered perioperative.

Results

We found no independent association between exposure to blood transfusion and infection (odds ratio [OR] 1.02, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.76–1.37, P = 0.889), nor a dose–response relationship (OR 1.02, 95%CI: 0.98–1.07, P = 0.245). Older age (OR 1.01, 95%CI: 1.00–1.02, P = 0.035), a higher modified Charlson comorbidity index (OR 1.13, 95%CI: 1.05–1.22, P = 0.002), surgery to the axial skeleton (OR 1.89, 95%CI: 1.42–2.51, P < 0.001), and previous radiotherapy (OR 1.45, 95%CI 1.07–1.96, P = 0.015) were independently associated with infection.

Conclusions

There was no association between allogeneic blood transfusion and infection. We found other risk factors that should be taken into consideration when deciding to operate. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:997–1003. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Post‐chemotherapy retroperitoneal teratoma in nonseminomatous germ cell tumors: Do predictive factors exist? Results from a national multicenter study
Authors: Dusaud Marie , Malavaud Bernard , Bayoud Younes , Sebe Philippe , Hoepffner Jean Luc , Salomon Laurent , Houlgatte Alain , Pignot Géraldine , Rigaud Jérome , Fléchon Aude , Pfister Christian , Rouprêt Morgan , Soulié Michel , Méjean Arnaud , Durand Xavier
Published: November 2016

Background and Objectives

To identify predictive preoperative factors of the presence of teratoma in retroperitoneal lymph node dissection specimens.

Methods

We performed a 20 years multicenter retrospective analysis of all patients who underwent retroperitoneal lymph node dissection for residual masses after chemotherapy (PC‐RPLND). Patients had undergone PC‐RPLND after chemotherapy for advanced testicular cancer. The histologic components of the primary tumor were compared with those of the residual masses using logistic regression.

Results

A total of 469 NSGCT patients underwent PC‐RPLND (complete data available for 211). By PC‐RPLND, necrosis was found in 84 cases, teratoma in 102 cases, and viable tumor in 25 cases. The univariate and multivariate analyses showed that teratoma (P = 0.001 and P = 0.002, respectively) and yolk sac tumor (P = 0.009 and P = 0.035, respectively) in orchiectomy specimens were statistically significant predictors of the presence of teratoma in retroperitoneal lymph nodes.

Conclusions

PC‐RPLND is the standard treatment for any supracentimetric residual lesion. This procedure is associated with a high morbidity, and almost half patients are overtreated. The presence of teratoma and yolk sac tumor in the orchiectomy specimen were independent significant predictors of teratoma in retroperitoneal masses. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:992–996. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular key to understand the gastric cancer biology in elderly patients—The role of microsatellite instability
Authors: Polom Karol , Marrelli Daniele , Roviello Giandomenico , Pascale Valeria , Voglino Costantino , Rho Henry , Marini Mario , Macchiarelli Raffaele , Roviello Franco
Published: November 2016

Background and Objectives

Microsatellite instability (MSI) in gastric cancer (GC) is associated with older age. We present the clinicopathological results of younger and older patients with MSI GC.

Methods

We analyzed 472 patients with GC. MSI analysis was done on fresh frozen tissue using five quasimonomorphic mononucleotide repeats: NR‐21, NR‐24, NR‐27, BAT‐25, and BAR‐26. Clinical and pathological analysis was performed for different age groups.

Results

We observed better survival in elderly MSI GC patients compared to younger patients. The percentage of MSI GC increases gradually with increasing age, accounting for 48% of patients over the age of 85 years. A difference in survival was seen between MSI and MSS groups of patients older than 65 years, while no statistical difference was seen for younger groups. Multivariate analysis revealed that MSI status has a significant prognostic factor in patients aged over 70 years (MSS vs. MSI; HR 1.82, P = 0.013).

Conclusion

MSI is an important prognostic factor above all in elderly GC patients. It is associated with favorable prognosis and may help in planning different approaches to treatment in this subgroup. J. Surg. Oncol. 2017;115:344–350. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diffusion in Polymer Solutions: Molecular Weight Distribution by PFG‐NMR and Relation to SEC
Authors: Guo Xiaoai , Laryea Esther , Wilhelm Manfred , Luy Burkhard , Nirschl Hermann , Guthausen Gisela
Published: November 2016

Quantification of diffusion coefficient distribution (DCD) and correlation with molecular weight distribution (MWD) of polymers is still an issue in pulsed field‐gradient nuclear magnetic resonance (PFG‐NMR). The conventional scaling law utilized so far to relate diffusion coefficient and molecular weight only holds true for the determination of MWD at sufficiently low concentrations. To extend measurement limits and to get a good signal‐to‐noise ratio, an exponential correlation is introduced to describe the effect of polymer concentration on diffusion in PFG‐NMR. Two model polymers (polystyrene and poly(methyl methacrylate)) dissolved in deuterated chloroform are studied at different concentrations in the range of 0.16–8 wt%. The DCDs are determined by modeling the measured signal attenuation with three methods (gamma distribution, log normal distribution, and tailored norm regularization). It is shown that the proposed method applies to the PFG‐NMR measurements on polymer solutions over a wide concentration range, providing almost the same MWDs as those obtained at low concentrations. The MWDs retrieved from NMR experiments agree well with those by size exclusion chromatography.

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The Brezis–Nirenberg problem for fractional elliptic operators
Authors: Chen Ko‐Shin , Montenegro Marcos , Yan Xiaodong
Published: November 2016

Let be a uniformly elliptic operator in divergence form in a bounded open subset Ω of . We study the effect of the operator on the existence and nonexistence of positive solutions of the nonlocal Brezis–Nirenberg problem
urn:x-wiley:0025584X:media:mana201600072:mana201600072-math-0004where denotes the fractional power of with zero Dirichlet boundary values on , , and λ is a real parameter. By assuming for all and near some point , we prove existence theorems for any , where denotes the first Dirichlet eigenvalue of . Our existence result holds true for and in the interior case () and for and in the boundary case (). Nonexistence for star‐shaped domains is obtained for any .
A free boundary problem arising from DCIS mathematical model
Authors: Li Heng , Xu Yongzhi , Zhou Jian‐Rong
Published: November 2016

Ductal carcinoma in situ – a special cancer – is confined within the breast ductal only. We derive the mathematical ductal carcinoma in situ model in a form of a nonlinear parabolic equation with initial, boundary, and free boundary conditions. Existence, uniqueness, and stability of problem are proved. Algorithm and illustrative examples are included to demonstrate the validity and applicability of the technique in this paper. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Low‐pass imaging of dynamic acquisitions (LIDA) with a group‐oriented registration (GOREG) for proton MR imaging of lung ventilation
Authors: Voskrebenzev Andreas , Gutberlet Marcel , Kaireit Till F. , Wacker Frank , Vogel‐Claussen Jens
Published: November 2016

Purpose

To compare low‐pass imaging dynamic acquisitions (LIDA) approach in combination with a group‐oriented registration (GOREG) scheme with conventional Fourier decomposition (FD).

Methods

Dynamic images of six healthy volunteers and one chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patient were acquired on a 1.5 Tesla scanner using a spoiled gradient echo sequence. For the volunteers each slice was acquired during regular (RB) and irregular breathing (IB). For conventional registration (CR), all images were directly registered to the intermediate respiratory position. For the group‐oriented registration (GOREG) a group‐based step‐by‐step scheme was used. The registered datasets were evaluated with FD and LIDA. The image quality was assessed by image sharpness metric and parenchyma‐vessel contrast. The GOREG+LIDA and CR+FD results were compared with computed tomography (CT) in a patient with COPD. To show feasibility of the presented method at 3 Tesla (T), a healthy volunteer was included, who was scanned at 1.5T and 3T on the same day.

Results

Improved image sharpness (predominantly by GOREG, P < 0.0125) and contrast (predominantly by LIDA, P < 0.0125) were obtained for RB and IB. Synergetic improvements were found for GOREG+LIDA. Hypoventilated regions in the COPD patient calculated with GOREG+LIDA showed a good agreement with emphysema identified by CT.

Conclusion

GOREG+LIDA can be used to calculate quantitative ventilation images with improved image quality, which is an important step toward clinical translation of this method. The presented method is also feasible at 3T. Magn Reson Med 78:1496–1505, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
Treatment effectiveness and fidelity of manual therapy to the knee: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Salamh Paul , Cook Chad , Reiman Michael P. , Sheets Charles
Published: November 2016

Manual therapy (MT) is a commonly used treatment for knee osteoarthritis (OA) but to date only one systematic review has explored its effectiveness. The purpos e of the present study was to perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis of the literature, to determine the effectiveness and fidelity of studies using MT techniques in individuals with knee OA. Relevant studies were assessed for inclusion. Effectiveness was measured using effect sizes, and methodological bias and treatment fidelity were both explored. Effect sizes were calculated using standardized mean differences (SMD) based on pooled data depending on statistical and clinical heterogeneity, as well as risk of bias. The search captured 2,969 studies; after screening, 12 were included. Four had a low risk of bias and high treatment fidelity. For self‐reported function, comparing MT with no treatment resulted in a large effect size (standardized mean difference [SMD] 0.84), as did adding MT to a comparator treatment (SMD 0.78). A significant difference was found for pain when adding MT to a comparator treatment (SMD 0.73). The findings in the present meta‐analytical review support the use of MT versus a number of different comparators for improvement in self‐reported knee function. Lesser support is present for pain reduction, and no endorsement of functional performance can be made at this time.
Stress, fatigue, and sleep quality leading up to and following a stressful life event
Authors: Van Laethem Michelle , Beckers Debby G.J. , Dijksterhuis Ap , Geurts Sabine A.E.
Published: November 2016

This study aims to examine (a) the time course of stress, fatigue, and sleep quality among PhD students awaiting a stressful event and (b) whether daily anticipation of this event influences day‐level stress, fatigue, and sleep quality. Forty‐four PhD students completed evening and morning questionnaires on eight days from 1 month before their dissertation defense until one month thereafter. Results showed increased stress leading up to the defense, while fatigue and sleep quality remained unchanged. Comparing the night before the defense with the night after, stress rapidly decreased, whereas fatigue and sleep quality increased. Following the defense, stress and sleep quality remained stable, whereas fatigue declined. Stress 1 month before the defense was higher than 1 month thereafter. Regarding day‐level relations, stress was adversely affected by negative anticipation and favorably by positive outcome expectancy, whereas positive anticipation had no influence. Positive outcome expectancy was an important predictor of improved sleep quality. We conclude that stress may be elevated long before a stressful event takes place but that one can recover rather quickly from temporary stress. Positive outcome expectancy of a stressful event may be an important predictor of reduced day‐level stress and improved day‐level sleep quality leading up to a stressful event.
Adopt strategies to lead your unit in times of change
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: November 2016

As a registrar, you have deep knowledge about many important functions at your institution, including records management, the student information system, institutional policies, and compliance with federal laws such as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. But your greatest value to your institution is no doubt your leadership skills. In a time of constant change, your staff members look to you for leadership, and you can have a big impact on the success of initiatives well beyond your office.
Descriptive analysis of different phenotypes of cardiac remodeling in fetal growth restriction
Authors: Rodríguez‐López M. , Cruz‐Lemini M. , Valenzuela‐Alcaraz B. , Garcia‐Otero L. , Sitges M. , Bijnens B. , Gratacós E. , Crispi F.
Published: November 2016

Objective

To identify different cardiac phenotypes among cases of fetal growth restriction (FGR).

Methods

Echocardiography was performed in 126 cases with FGR (birth weight < 10th centile) and 64 appropriate‐for‐gestational‐age (AGA) fetuses. Principal component and cluster analyses were performed to identify different cardiac phenotypes among FGR cases.

Results

Three different cardiac phenotypes were identified among the FGR group: globular in 54% of cases, elongated in 29% of cases and hypertrophic in 17% of cases. Those with a globular heart had the lowest median left‐ventricular sphericity index (controls, 1.78 (interquartile range (IQR), 1.62–1.97); FGR elongated, 1.92 (IQR, 1.78–2.09); FGR globular, 1.44 (IQR, 1.36–1.52); FGR hypertrophic, 1.65 (IQR, 1.42–1.77); P = 0.001). FGR cases with an elongated left ventricle had nearly normal cardiac dimensions. FGR cases with a hypertrophic phenotype had the highest median left‐ventricular wall thickness (controls, 1.22 (IQR, 1.10–1.67) mm/kg; FGR elongated, 1.52 (IQR, 1.28–1.86) mm/kg; FGR globular, 1.65 (IQR, 1.39–1.99) mm/kg; FGR hypertrophic, 3.68 (IQR, 3.45–4.71) mm/kg; P = 0.001) and cardiac dimensions. Globular and elongated phenotypes showed a fetoplacental profile of late‐onset FGR, while the hypertrophic phenotype showed signs of early‐onset FGR. The hypertrophic group also had the poorest perinatal results, having the lowest birth‐weight centile, gestational age at delivery and Apgar score and the highest postnatal blood pressure and aorta intima–media thickness.

Conclusions

FGR induces at least three different cardiac phenotypes, with early‐onset FGR cases being associated with a hypertrophic response and worse perinatal outcomes. This cardiac phenotypic classification may improve identification of FGR cases with the highest perinatal and long‐term cardiovascular risks. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Change in maternal cardiac output from preconception to mid‐pregnancy is associated with birth weight in healthy pregnancies
Authors: Mahendru A. A. , Foo F. L. , McEniery C. M. , Everett T. R. , Wilkinson I. B. , Lees C. C.
Published: November 2016

Objective

Birth weight (BW) is thought to be determined by maternal health and genetic, nutritional and placental factors, the latter being influenced by anatomical development and perfusion. Maternal cardiovascular changes contribute to uteroplacental perfusion; however, they have not yet been investigated in relation to fetal growth or BW. Our aim was to explore the relationship between maternal cardiovascular adaptation, fetal growth and BW in healthy pregnancies.

Methods

This was a longitudinal prospective study of women planning to conceive a pregnancy. Maternal cardiac output (CO), cardiac index (CI), pulse‐wave velocity, aortic augmentation index, central blood pressure and peripheral vascular resistance were assessed prior to pregnancy and at 6, 23 and 33 weeks' gestation. Fetal growth was assessed using serial ultrasound measurements of biometry.

Results

In total, 143 women volunteered to participate and were eligible for study inclusion. A total of 101 women conceived within 18 months and there were 64 live births with normal pregnancy outcome. There were positive correlations between BW and the pregnancy‐induced changes in CO (ρ = 0.4, P = 0.004), CI (ρ = 0.3, P = 0.02) and peripheral vascular resistance (ρ = 0.3, P = 0.02). There were significant associations between second‐to‐third‐trimester fetal weight gain and the prepregnancy‐to‐second‐trimester increase in CO (Δ, 0.8 ± 1.2 L/min; ρ = 0.3, P = 0.02) and CI (Δ, 0.4 ± 0.6 L/min/m2; ρ = 0.3, P = 0.04) and reduction in aortic augmentation index (Δ, −10 ± 9%; ρ = −0.3, P = 0.04).

Conclusions

In healthy pregnancy, incremental changes in maternal CO in early pregnancy are associated with third‐trimester fetal growth and BW. It is plausible that this association is causative as the changes predate third‐trimester fetal growth and eventual BW. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing Cyanoacrylate Glue Versus Suture Fixation in Lichtenstein Hernia Repair: 7‐Year Outcome Analysis
Authors: Matikainen M. , Kössi J. , Silvasti S. , Hulmi T. , Paajanen H.
Published: November 2016

Background

Lichtenstein hernioplasty has relatively low recurrence rate, but chronic inguinal pain may cause harm to the patient. The aim of our study was to compare long‐term results of cyanoacrylate glue versus absorbable sutures for mesh fixation in Lichtenstein hernioplasty.

Methods

Lichtenstein hernioplasty (n = 302) was performed under local anesthesia in three hospitals. The patients were randomized to receive either 1 ml of butyl‐2‐cyanoacrylate tissue glue (Glubran®; 151 hernias) or absorbable polyglycolic acid sutures (Dexon®; 151 hernias) for mesh fixation (Optilene® mesh). Short‐term results were published previously. Chronic groin pain, foreign body sensation, use of analgesics, recurrence and re‐operations were analyzed 7 years after surgery.

Results

We reached 236 patients (78%) to present study. In the glue group (n = 115), there were five (4.3%) and in the suture group (n = 121) three (2.5%) recurrent hernias (p = 0.491). The prevalence of chronic pain (NRS ≥ 3) in the patients without re‐operations was similar in two groups: 15/118 (13%) and 13/111 (12%), respectively (p = 0.843). There were no significant differences in the foreign body sensation (8/14, p = 0.267) or in the need of analgesics (2/2, p = 1.00) between the two study groups.

Conclusion

Both cyanoacrylate glue and mesh fixation with absorbable sutures were equal in terms of chronic pain and rate of recurrences in Lichtenstein hernioplasty after 7‐year follow‐up.

Trial registration number

NCT00659542.
Span 60 as a Microsphere Matrix: Preparation and in Vitro Characterization of Novel Ibuprofen‐Span 60 Microspheres
Authors: Mady Omar
Published: November 2016

Microspheres are a potential delivery system for controlled and sustained drug release. Polymeric microspheres are commonly prepared by the solvent evaporation technique whereas waxy microspheres by the melt dispersion technique. The goal of this study was to prepare a surfactant (Span 60)—Ibuprofen microspheres using both techniques. Ibuprofen‐Span 60 microspheres were fabricated with different drug to polymer weight ratios of 3:1, 1:1 and 1:3 and characterized by particle size, in vitro dissolution, infrared spectroscopy, x‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The actual drug content increased with increasing the concentration of anti‐aggregating agent (polyvinylpyrolidone). The actual drug content and drug encapsulation efficiency was markedly higher in case of microspheres prepared by a solvent evaporation technique compared to that prepared by a melt dispersion one using the same theoretical drug content. The microspheres were spherical with irregular surfaces. The in vitro release showed no burst effect and incomplete drug release. The rate and total drug released from the microspheres prepared by a solvent evaporation technique are higher than those prepared by using the melt dispersion technique. FTIR rolled out the chemical changes of the drug in Span 60 microspheres. The X‐ray diffraction pattern of the microspheres prepared by using a solvent evaporation technique showed a decrease in the drug crystallinity. The drug crystallinity in microspheres prepared by the melt dispersion technique decreased with increasing the theoretical drug content. The drug entrapment mechanism is responsible for the changes in drug physicochemical properties and in vitro release.
Clinical PET/MRI in neurooncology: opportunities and challenges from a single-institution perspective
Authors: Marner Lisbeth , Henriksen Otto M. , Lundemann Michael , Larsen Vibeke Andrée , Law Ian
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays a key role in neurooncology, i.e., for diagnosis, treatment evaluation and detection of recurrence. However, standard MRI cannot always separate malignant tissue from other pathologies or treatment-induced changes. Advanced MRI techniques such as diffusion-weighted imaging, perfusion imaging and spectroscopy show promising results in discriminating malignant from benign lesions. Further, supplemental imaging with amino acid positron emission tomography (PET) has been shown to increase accuracy significantly and is used routinely at an increasing number of sites. Several centers are now implementing hybrid PET/MRI systems allowing for multiparametric imaging, combining conventional MRI with advanced MRI and amino acid PET imaging. Neurooncology is an obvious focus area for PET/MR imaging.

Methods

Based on the literature and our experience from more than 300 PET/MRI examinations of brain tumors with 18F-fluoro-ethyl-tyrosine, the clinical use of PET/MRI in adult and pediatric neurooncology is critically reviewed.

Results

Although the results are increasingly promising, the added value and range of indications for multiparametric imaging with PET/MRI are yet to be established. Robust solutions to overcome the number of issues when using a PET/MRI scanner are being developed, which is promising for a more routine use in the future.

Conclusions

In a clinical setting, a PET/MRI scan may increase accuracy in discriminating recurrence from treatment changes, although sequential same-day imaging on separate systems will often constitute a reliable and cost-effective alternative. Pediatric patients who require general anesthesia will benefit the most from simultaneous PET and MR imaging.
Quantum conformational transition in biological macromolecule
Authors: Luo Liaofu , Lv Jun
Published: November 2016

Background

Recently we proposed a quantum theory on the conformational change of biomolecule, deduced several equations on protein folding rate from the first principles and discussed the experimental tests of the theory. The article is a review of these works.

Methods

Based on the general equation of the conformation‐transitional rate several theoretical results are deduced and compared with experimental data through bioinformatics methods.

Results

The temperature dependence and the denaturant concentration dependence of the protein folding rate are deduced and compared with experimental data. The quantitative relation between protein folding rate and torsional mode number (or chain length) is deduced and the obtained formula can be applied to RNA folding as well. The quantum transition theory of two‐state protein is successfully generalized to multi‐state protein folding. Then, how to make direct experimental tests on the quantum property of the conformational transition of biomolecule is discussed, which includes the study of protein photo‐folding and the observation of the fluctuation of the fluorescence intensity emitted from the protein folding/unfolding event. Finally, the potential applications of the present quantum folding theory to molecular biological problems are sketched in two examples: the glucose transport across membrane and the induced pluripotency in stem cell.

Conclusions

The above results show that the quantum mechanics provides a unifying and logically simple theoretical starting point in studying the conformational change of biological macromolecules. The far‐reaching results in practical application of the theory are expected.
Innovative approach to computer-aided design of horizontal axis wind turbine blades
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Farhad , Moetakef-Imani Behnam
Published: November 2016

The design of horizontal axis wind turbine (HAWT) blades involves several geometric complexities. As a result, the modeling of these blades by commercial computer-aided design (CAD) software is not easily accomplished. In the present paper, the HAWT blade is divided into structural and aerodynamic surfaces with a G1 continuity imposed on their connecting region. The widely used method of skinning is employed throughout the current work for surface approximation. In addition, to ensure the compatibility of section curves, a novel approach is developed based on the redistribution of input airfoil points. In order to evaluate deviation errors, the Hausdorff metric is used. The fairness of surfaces is quantitatively assessed using the standard strain energy method. The above-mentioned algorithms are successfully integrated into a MATLAB program so as to enhance further optimization applications. The final surfaces created by the procedure developed during the present study can be exported using the IGES standard file format and directly interpreted by commercial CAD and FE software.

Highlights A new skinning approach is presented based on redistribution of input data points. The developed skinning method is successfully applied to the design of horizontal axis wind turbine blades. It has been shown that the blade surface constructed using the developed method is fair and visually pleasing. Special attention has been paid to construct a smooth surface in the transition area between the root and the section with maximum chord.
Classification of rocks of the Bazhenov Formation
Authors: Kontorovich A.E. , Yan P.A. , Zamirailova A.G. , Kostyreva E.A. , Eder V.G.
Published: November 2016

In this study, we propose a new classification of rocks of the Bazhenov Formation based on the proportions of four principal components (siliceous, clay, and carbonate minerals and organic matter (kerogen)) of mostly biochemogenic and, to a lesser extent, allothigenic origin. The classification is based on the results of mineralogical and chemical analyses of more than 400 core samples from 15 wells drilled within the Bazhenov Formation, West Siberian petroleum basin. Four major classes of rocks, divided into 16 subclasses, have been recognized. The terms mixtite and kerogen-rich rock are introduced. Mixtites (biochemogenic mixtites) are defined as a class of rocks containing less than 50% of each component, including kerogen. It was shown that the most common rocks of the Bazhenov Formation are siliceous-argillaceous, kerogen-siliceous, and kerogen-argillaceous-siliceous mixtites and kerogen silicites, which together account for ~65% of all samples analyzed. The proposed approach can be used to study organic-rich black shales in different sedimentary basins worldwide.
Actuator selection and placement for localized feedback flow control
Authors: Natarajan Mahesh , Freund Jonathan B. , Bodony Daniel J.
Published: November 2016

The selection and placement of actuators and sensors to control compressible viscous flows is addressed by developing a novel methodology based upon the eigensystem structural sensitivity of the linearized evolution operator appropriate for linear feedback control. Forward and adjoint global modes are used to construct a space of possible perturbations to the linearized operator, which yields a small optimization problem for selecting the parameters that best achieve the control objective, including where they should be placed. The method is demonstrated by informing actuation to suppress amplification of the instabilities in boundary layer separation in a high-subsonic diffuser. Complete stabilization is observed in the separated shear layer for short downstream distances at modest Reynolds number. Higher Reynolds numbers and longer distances are expected to be more challenging to stabilize; here the control informed by the procedure still substantively suppresses amplification of instabilities. It is also demonstrated that more complex actuator–sensor selections may not yield superior controllers.
The cleansing of the temple in early medieval Northumbria
Authors: O'Brien Conor
Published: November 2016

While the attitudes of Stephen of Ripon and Bede toward church-buildings have previously been contrasted, this paper argues that both shared a vision of the church as a holy place, analogous to the Jewish temple and to be kept pure from the mundane world. Their similarity of approach suggests that this concept of the church-building was widespread amongst the Northumbrian monastic elite and may partially reflect the attitudes of the laity also. The idea of the church as the place of eucharistic sacrifice probably lay at the heart of this theology of sacred place. Irish ideas about monastic holiness, traditional liturgical language and the native fascination with building in stone combined with an interest in ritual purity to give power to this use of the temple-image which went on to influence later Carolingian attitudes to churches.
WIESER AS A THEORIST OF INSTITUTIONAL CHANGE
Authors: Festré Agnès , Garrouste Pierre
Published: November 2016

In this contribution, we provide an interpretation of Friedrich von Wieser’s contribution to economics that pays tribute to the originality of his work and particularly to his view of how institutions interfere with individual behavior. This interaction takes place within a disequilibrium framework where social influences such as power or social class, and psychological factors such as force of habit or herd behavior, are the product of human action but also constitute constraints on further action. Section II stresses the institutionalist background of Wieser’s economics. We concentrate on Wieser’s general method—which we assimilate to an example of Joseph Agassi’s (1975) institutional individualism—and his analysis of the emergence and evolution of institutions via the dynamics of leaders and masses. In section III, we reinforce and illustrate the institutionalist stamp of Wieser’s economics by focusing on his work on monetary economics (Wieser 1904, 1909a, 1909b, 1927b) and his analysis of the emergence of money, based on our reading of Wieser’sSocial Economics([1927a] 1967) andThe Law of Power([1926] 1983).