bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of preoperative leukocytapheresis on inflammatory cytokines following surgery for ulcerative colitis: A prospective randomized study
Authors: Bamba Takuya , Yamamoto Takayuki , Umegae Satoru , Matsumoto Koichi
Published: September 2013

Targeted extracorporeal granulocyte and monocyte apheresis (GMA) has produced clinical efficacy together with down modulation of specific inflammatory cytokines in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). This study was to investigate if preoperative GMA produces immunological effect on dysregulated immune activity after restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) in patients with UC. Forty patients requiring RPC were included. Twenty randomly selected patients received five GMA sessions with the Adacolumn over two consecutive weeks before RPC (GMA group). RPC was performed within 2 weeks following the last GMA session. The other 20 patients did not receive GMA before RPC (non‐GMA group). Blood samples were obtained immediately before surgery, at 1 h after surgery, and on postoperative Days 1, 3, and 7 from all patients. Abdominal exudate was obtained from the drainage tube at 1 h after surgery, and on postoperative Days 1, 3, and 7. Concentrations of interleukin (IL)−1β, IL‐6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α in plasma and peritoneal fluid from a drainage tube were measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Between the two groups, patients were matched with respect to age, sex, UC duration, severity, extent and the dose of prednisolone at surgery. IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α levels in plasma and peritoneal fluid were not significantly different between the two groups during the entire study period. Based on the assays of IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α levels in the plasma and the peritoneal fluid, this study did not find any effect on these inflammatory cytokines by preoperative GMA in patients with UC who underwent RPC. J. Clin. Apheresis 29:107–112, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A fluid‐driven earthquake swarm on the margin of the Yellowstone caldera
Authors: Shelly David R. , Hill David P. , Massin Frédérick , Farrell Jamie , Smith Robert B. , Taira Taka'aki
Published: September 2013

Over the past several decades, the Yellowstone caldera has experienced frequent earthquake swarms and repeated cycles of uplift and subsidence, reflecting dynamic volcanic and tectonic processes. Here we examine the detailed spatial‐temporal evolution of the 2010 Madison Plateau swarm, which occurred near the northwest boundary of the Yellowstone caldera. To fully explore the evolution of the swarm, we integrated procedures for seismic waveform‐based earthquake detection with precise double‐difference relative relocation. Using cross correlation of continuous seismic data and waveform templates constructed from cataloged events, we detected and precisely located 8710 earthquakes during the 3 week swarm, nearly 4 times the number of events included in the standard catalog. This high‐resolution analysis reveals distinct migration of earthquake activity over the course of the swarm. The swarm initiated abruptly on 17 January 2010 at about 10 km depth and expanded dramatically outward (both shallower and deeper) over time, primarily along a NNW striking, ~55° ENE dipping structure. To explain these characteristics, we hypothesize that the swarm was triggered by the rupture of a zone of confined high‐pressure aqueous fluids into a preexisting crustal fault system, prompting release of accumulated stress. The high‐pressure fluid injection may have been accommodated by hybrid shear and dilatational failure, as is commonly observed in exhumed hydrothermally affected fault zones. This process has likely occurred repeatedly in Yellowstone as aqueous fluids exsolved from magma migrate into the brittle crust, and it may be a key element in the observed cycles of caldera uplift and subsidence.
The coupling between very long period seismic events, volcanic tremor, and degassing rates at Mount Etna volcano
Authors: Zuccarello Luciano , Burton Michael R. , Saccorotti Gilberto , Bean Christopher J. , Patanè Domenico
Published: September 2013

From December 2005 to January 2006, an anomalous degassing episode was observed at Mount Etna, well‐correlated with an increase in volcanic tremor, and in the almost complete absence of eruptive activity. In the same period, more than 10,000 very long period (VLP) events were detected. Through moment tensor inversion analyses of the VLP pulses, we obtained quantitative estimates of the volumetric variations associated with these events. This allowed a quantitative investigation of the relationship between VLP seismic activity, volcanic tremor, and gas emission rate at Mount Etna. We found a statistically significant positive correlation between SO2 gas flux and volcanic tremor, suggesting that tremor amplitude can be used as a first‐order proxy for the background degassing activity of the volcano. VLP volumetric changes and SO2 gas flux are correlated only for the last part of our observations, following a slight change in the VLP source depth. We calculate that the gas associated with VLP signal genesis contributed less than 5% of the total gas emission. The existence of a linear correlation between VLP and degassing activities indicates a general relationship between these two processes. The effectiveness of such coupling appears to depend upon the particular location of the VLP source, suggesting that conduit geometry might play a significant role in the VLP‐generating process. These results are the first report on Mount Etna of a quantitative relationship between the amounts of gas emissions directly estimated through instrumental flux measurements and the quantities of gas mass inferred in the VLP source inversion.
Mammalian target of rapamycin signaling activation patterns in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Komori Yoko , Yada Kazuhiro , Ohta Masayuki , Uchida Hiroki , Iwashita Yukio , Fukuzawa Kengo , Kashima Kenji , Yokoyama Shigeo , Inomata Masafumi , Kitano Seigo
Published: September 2013

Background

Phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway dysregulation has been implicated in the development of various human cancers. However, expression of mTOR cascade components in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs) has not been fully explored. The aim of this study was to assess the expression of mTOR pathway in PNETs using immunohistochemistry.

Methods

From December 1984 to April 2012, we surgically treated 42 patients with PNETs. We used immunohistochemistry to evaluate expression of mTOR, phosphorylated mTOR (p‐mTOR), p70S6 kinase (S6K), phosphorylated S6 ribosomal protein (p‐S6rp), eukaryotic initiation factor 4E‐binding protein 1 (4E‐BP1), and phosphorylated 4E‐BP1 (p‐4E‐BP1) in the resected specimens. The relation between the expression of these molecules and clinicopathological characteristics was investigated.

Results

We identified the expression of mTOR (28.6%), p‐mTOR (52.4%), S6K (52.4%), p‐S6rp (40.5%), 4E‐BP1 (81.0%), and p‐4E‐BP1 (26.2%) in PNETs. The expression of mTOR, p‐mTOR, S6K, and p‐S6rp was significantly associated with tumor invasion, proliferation, and an advanced‐stage. Particularly, the expression of p‐mTOR was related to clinically relevant factors such as tumor size, vascular invasion, extrapancreatic invasion, lymph node and/or distant metastasis, mitotic count, and European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society TNM staging as well as the 2004 and 2010 World Health Organization (WHO) classification. In addition, p‐S6rp expression was related to vascular invasion, extrapancreatic invasion, lymph node and distant metastasis, mitotic count, and the 2010 WHO classification. In contrast, no significant relation between 4E‐BP1 activation and clinicopathological factors was observed. The expression of p‐mTOR was strongly correlated with that of p‐S6rp (r = 0.474, P = 0.002).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that activation of the mTOR/S6K signaling pathway plays a significant role in tumorigenesis and progression of PNET.
An exploration of the feasibility of radiation therapist participation in treatment reviews
Authors: Monk Clare Maree , Wrightson Stephanie Jane , Smith Tony Neil
Published: September 2013

Introduction

As radiation oncologists' (ROs') workload has increased over time, treatment review clinics have become recognized as an area of RO practice into which radiation therapist (RT) practice could extend. There has been limited utilization of RTs in this role in Australia and a paucity of data on the acceptability and opinions regarding RTs practising in this role in an Australian context. The purpose of this audit was to investigate the feasibility of RT participation in review clinics at Calvary Mater Newcastle.

Methods

Feasibility was determined by two methods: an audit of 200 treatment reviews to determine medical intervention (MI) levels required and a survey of 80 clinical staff to explore attitudes towards RT participation in clinics.

Results

Medical intervention was required in 59% (n = 118) of observed reviews, with the lowest being for breast (33%) and prostate (28%) cancers. MI peaked at 73% between fractions 16–20 and was lowest early and late in the treatment period at 48%. There were 60 responses to the staff survey. All but one respondent agreed that RTs would be willing to participate in treatment review clinics, but all five consultant ROs indicated they would not be willing to delegate reviews to RTs.

Conclusions

Neither feasibility measure reached acceptable levels to recommend RT participation in treatment review clinics. Further investigation and RT education are required to help meet the future RO workforce shortfall. As MI rates are lowest for breast and prostate cancer RT participation could be targeted to these clinics.
Midtarsal joint locking: New perspectives on an old paradigm
Authors: Okita Nori , Meyers Steven A. , Challis John H. , Sharkey Neil A.
Published: September 2013

We investigated the existence of a midtarsal joint locking mechanism using cadaveric simulations of normal gait. Previous descriptions of this phenomenon led us to hypothesize that non‐coupled rotations of the calcaneocuboid and talonavicular (i.e., midtarsal) joints and cubonavicular and talocalcaneal joints occur at heel strike and during weight acceptance, after which joint rotations cease with all bone‐to‐bone orientations remaining constant during the latter portions of stance phase. Three‐dimensional kinematics of the talus, calcaneus, cuboid, and navicular were recorded along with muscle and ground reaction forces. Finite helical axis parameters and joint angles of directly articulating bones were subsequently derived and examined. During weight acceptance, the midtarsal joints everted with obvious changes in the relative orientation of their helical axes. The relative non‐parallel orientation of these axes then remained constant until late in stance when these joints inverted and dorsiflexed toward their original pre‐stance orientation. The cubonavicular and talocalcaneal joints demonstrated complimentary behavior. Contrary to our hypothesis, the midtarsal joints remained compliant during foot flat and even more so during push‐off, despite divergent joint axes. Joint rotations were present after weight acceptance, thereby challenging the concept that midtarsal joint locking produces a rigid lever during push‐off. © 2013 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 32:110–115, 2014.
Binding Study of the [Ru(NH3)5pz]2+ Complex to Bile Anion Aggregates through Kinetic Measurements
Authors: Perez‐Tejeda P. , Jimenez‐Ruiz A. , Grueso E. M. , Prado‐Gotor R. , Carrasco C. , Pastor A. , Alvarez N. , Garcia‐Lora M. , Garcia‐Pageo M.
Published: September 2013

The electron transfer reaction between [Ru(NH3)5pz]2+ and [Co(C2O4)3]3− was studied in the presence of monomers and aggregates of bile salts (sodium deoxycholate, sodium taurodeoxycholate, and sodium glycocholate) at 298.2 ± 0.1 K. The results show a decreasing rate constant with the successive addition of bile salts. To rationalize the trends of the reaction rate on the [bile salts], two models were used. One of them takes into account the aggregation feature by considering a stepwise self‐association between monomers, whereas the other assumes the formation of a critical micellar concentration. Binding constants between [Ru(NH3)5pz]2+ species and deoxycholate or taurodeoxycholate aggregates were higher than that for glycocholate aggregates. These results are consistent with the way in which the monomers are added to form the bile anion aggregates.
3D‐Druck erobert die Mikroskala
Authors: Hermatschweiler Martin
Published: September 2013

Die 3D‐Drucktechnologie gilt weltweit als ein entscheidender Schlüssel für wirtschaftliches Wachstum in den kommenden Jahrzehnten. Schon heute ist Drucken in 3D in vielen Bereichen realisiert. Tägliche Pressemeldungen zu neuen Produkten wie Fahrzeugkomponenten, Prothesen und anderen künstlichen Körperteilen bis hin zu Skurrilitäten wie Lebensmitteln aus dem 3D‐Drucker sorgen regelmäßig für Aufsehen. Ohne teure Werkzeuge herstellen zu müssen, können am Computer entworfene Modelle einfach und schnell gedruckt werden.
Von Werkzeugstahl bis zur Superlegierung
Authors: Schneider Michael
Published: September 2013

Ob Zahnräder, Spritzgussformen, medizinische Instrumente oder Turbinenteile – bei hochwertigen Schweißarbeiten ist die Technologie des Laserschweißens unübertroffen. Mithilfe moderner Prozessstrategien lassen sich selbst anspruchsvolle Schweißmetallurgien oder artunterschiedliche Werkstoffe prozessstabil, reproduzierbar und wirtschaftlich bearbeiten. Automatisierte Prozeduren erhöhen zusätzlich die Qualität am Werkstück und die Effizienz der Bearbeitung. Am Beispiel der modular aufgebauten PSM‐400‐Serie von Schunk Lasertechnik wird deutlich, was heute bereits möglich ist (Abb. 1).
Innovative Prozesstechnik zur Mikrobearbeitung von Glas
Authors: Lemke Andreas , Sowoidnich Kay , Ashkenasi David
Published: September 2013

Die gemeinnützige Laser‐ und Medizin‐Technologie GmbH, Berlin (LMTB) entwickelt Prozesstechniken und optische Komponenten speziell für die industrielle Lasermikrofertigung. Einen Schwerpunkt bildet dabei die Lasermikrobearbeitung von Glas in Stärken zwischen 0,05 und 1 mm. Der Einsatz von ultrakurzen Laserpulsen bietet für transparente Werkstoffe eine gute Voraussetzung für eine präzise und schonende Herstellung von Bohrungen und Innenmarkierungen. Die Doppelpuls‐Technik liefert in Präzision und Geschwindigkeit ein weiteres Verbesserungspotenzial.
Mit dem Auge zurück an die Schweißnaht
Authors: Truckenbrodt Christian
Published: September 2013

Automatisierte, robotergeführte Laserstrahlschweißanlagen mit Multikilowatt‐Festkörperlasern stellen erhöhte Anforderungen an den Laserschutz. Nicht selten führt dies zu Laserstrahlschutzkabinen, die den Menschen vollständig vom Fertigungsprozess abschirmen. Kamerasysteme mit Fremdbeleuchtung zeigen ein Live‐Bild des Schweißprozesses sowie dessen Umgebung und bringen so den Benutzer mit dem Auge zurück an Schweißnaht, wie es beim manuellen Schweißen der Fall ist. Intelligente Steuerungs‐, Kamera‐ und Beleuchtungstechnik erlaubt zudem eine automatische Überwachung des Prozesses. Neben den Bilddaten werden zusätzlich Prozessparameter der Anlage synchron aufgezeichnet und ausgewertet. Somit stehen dem Benutzer bei der Analyse von n.i.O.‐Meldungen, Fehlstellen und weiteren Problemen sowohl ein Video als auch die zum jeweiligen Zeitpunkt aktuellen Parameter zur Verfügung. Kamerasysteme dieser Art haben sich in automatisierten Serienanlagen bereits als wichtiges Werkzeug zur Steigerung der Produktivität etabliert und genießen durch die videobildbasierte Mensch‐Maschine‐Schnittstelle eine hohe Akzeptanz beim Benutzer.
Platinenschnitt am laufenden Band
Authors: Pohl Thomas
Published: September 2013

Karosseriekomponenten und andere Blechformteile aus Stahl‐ und Aluminiumwerkstoffen werden heute meist auf Pressenstraßen oder in Warmformlinien hergestellt. Dabei finden Formplatinen Verwendung, deren zum Teil komplexe Geometrie in Umformsimulationen ermittelt und im Tryout optimiert und angepasst wird. Mit der neuen Laser‐Blanking‐Line von Schuler Automation lassen sich diese Platinen ohne Zwischenschritte direkt vom Coil schneiden und stapeln (Abb. 1). Die DynamicFlow‐Technologie und drei kooperierende Schneidköpfe sorgen beim Laserschneiden für höchste Qualität und Wirtschaftlichkeit.
Low‐Temperature CO2‐Assisted Assembly of Cyclic Olefin Copolymer Ferroelectrets of High Piezoelectricity and Thermal Stability
Authors: Li Yan , Zeng Changchun
Published: September 2013

A novel supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2)‐assisted low‐temperature assembly approach to fabricate cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) ferroelectrets is reported. The process takes advantage of the strong COC–CO2 interaction and associated severe depression of both bulk and surface glass transition temperature. Using a multilayer structural design to implement a bending mechanism in the ferroelectrets, the apparent compression modulus can be greatly reduced and tailored, leading to COC ferroelectrets with excellent piezoelectric activity. The COC ferroelectrets exhibit excellent thermal stability. The study presents a viable low‐cost technology to mass produce COC ferroelectrets with high piezoelectric activity that can be used in structurally and thermally demanding conditions.

image
Non‐Isothermal Modeling of a Non‐Newtonian Fluid Flow in a Twin Screw Extruder Using the Fictitious Domain Method
Authors: Sobhani Hadi , Anderson Patrick D. , Meijer Han H. E. , Ghoreishy Mir Hamid Reza , Razavi‐Nouri Mohammad
Published: September 2013

In this study, using a developed mathematical model, the non‐isothermal behavior of a non‐Newtonian fluid flow in the conveying elements of an intermeshing co‐rotating twin screw extruder (TSE) is simulated based on the combination of mixed finite elements and fictitious domain methods. The flow equations are solved employing the standard Galerkin method and a streamline‐upwind/Petrov–Galerkin technique is used in the solution scheme of the energy equation to reduce numerical oscillation. This model is combined with the Carreau rheological model to solve governing equations of continuity, momentum, and energy in a 3D Cartesian coordinate system. Using a developed mathematical model, the velocity and pressure fields are simulated for a non‐isothermal flow in a co‐rotating TSE. The shear rate distribution as a criterion for viscous dissipation and also the temperature distribution is calculated based on the simulated flow fields. The applicability of this model is verified by the comparison of experimentally measured pressures and mass flow rates with the simulation results for a high‐density polyethylene melt. This comparison shows a good correlation between experimental data and model predictions.
Ecomorphological variability of Arthrospira fusiformis (Cyanoprokaryota) in African soda lakes
Authors: Kaggwa Mary Nakabungo , Burian Alfred , Oduor Steve Omondi , Schagerl Michael
Published: September 2013

The filamentous spirally coiled cyanoprokaryote Arthrospira fusiformis is found in extremely high densities in tropical soda lakes acting as driving force of the food web. We studied pronounced temporal morphological changes of Arthrospira in Kenyan soda lakes, Nakuru and Bogoria, and identified underlying key factors. Cell (diameter and height) and filament (height of coil, coil diameter, and number) dimensions were measured from weekly samples collected over a period of 16 months. In both lakes, medium‐sized cells and large, widely coiled filaments prevailed most. Percentage of large, widely coiled filaments was promoted by elevated levels of soluble reactive phosphorus, wind speed, temperature and conductivity and the opposite for small filaments. Large, narrow‐coiled filaments were associated with an increase in mainly Arthrospira‐grazing zooplankton and cyanophage infections. Widely coiled spirals were promoted by increased turbulences. Based on fluorescence measurements, we found widely coiled filaments representing high vitality. From this study we were able to demonstrate for the first time morphological patterns of Arthrospira in nature. Arthrospira morphotypes are suitable for indicating the biological status in soda lakes as they are subjective and therefore reflective of what is happening in its habitat. Additionally, this outcome might be also of interest for commercial ′Spirulina′ farms in enhancing high‐quality production.
MicroRNA‐106b modulates epithelial–mesenchymal transition by targeting TWIST1 in invasive endometrial cancer cell lines
Authors: Dong Peixin , Kaneuchi Masanori , Watari Hidemichi , Sudo Satoko , Sakuragi Noriaki
Published: September 2013

Type II endometrial carcinoma is an aggressive subtype of endometrial cancer (EC). TWIST1, a helix‐loop‐helix transcription regulator, is known to induce epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and promote tumor metastasis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) also serve as important regulators of EMT and metastasis by regulating EMT‐related genes. In this study, we sought to explore the role of TWIST1 in inducing EMT in representative type II EC cell lines, and to determine the miRNAs involved in regulating TWIST1 gene expression. Functional analysis suggested that TWIST1 contributes to the EMT phenotypes of EC cells, as evidenced by the acquisition of fibroblast‐like properties, enhanced invasiveness, and induction of an EN‐switch (downregulation of epithelial marker E‐cadherin and upregulation of mesenchymal marker N‐cadherin). Conversely, silencing of TWIST1 by siRNA inhibited cell invasion and the mesenchymal phenotype, which was accompanied by a reversion of the EN‐switch. We also observed a novel post‐transcriptional regulatory mechanism of TWIST1 expression mediated by miR‐106b via its direct interaction with TWIST1 mRNAs at the 3′‐untranslated region. Our data suggest that TWIST1 is a critical inducer of EMT in invasive EC cells and that miR‐106b could suppress EC cell invasion by downregulating TWIST1 expression. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rotigotine polyoxazoline conjugate SER‐214 provides robust and sustained antiparkinsonian benefit
Authors: Eskow Jaunarajs Karen L. , Standaert David G. , Viegas Tacey X. , Bentley Michael D. , Fang Zhihao , Dizman Bekir , Yoon Kunsang , Weimer Rebecca , Ravenscroft Paula , Johnston Tom H. , Hill Michael P. , Brotchie Jonathan M. , Moreadith Randall W.
Published: September 2013

Currently available dopaminergic drugs such as levodopa and dopamine (DA) receptor agonists impart considerable improvement in Parkinson's disease (PD) motor symptoms but often lead to significant motor complications including “wearing‐off” and dyskinesia. Such complications are believed to stem from the pulsatile nature of dopaminergic stimulation with these agents. Continuous dopaminergic drug delivery using polyoxazoline (POZ) polymer conjugation may improve motor symptoms, while avoiding development of side effects. The purposes of the current study are to characterize the in vitro and in vivo pharmacokinetics of POZ conjugation of a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved DA agonist, rotigotine, and to evaluate their effects in an established rat model of PD. After determination of release profiles of several POZ‐conjugated constructs (“fast”: SER‐212; “moderate”: SER‐213; and “slow”: SER‐214) using in vitro hydrolysis, normal male Sprague‐Dawley rats were used for determination of the pharmacokinetic profile of both acute and chronic exposure. Finally, a separate group of rats was rendered hemiparkinsonian using intracranial 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA) infusions, treated acutely with POZ‐rotigotine, and assessed for rotational behavior and antiparkinsonian benefit using the cylinder test. POZ‐rotigotine formulations SER‐213 and SER‐214 led to substantial pharmacokinetic improvement compared to unconjugated rotigotine. In addition, SER‐214 led to antiparkinsonian effects in DA‐lesioned rats that persisted up to 5 days posttreatment. Repeated weekly dose administration of SER‐214 to normal rats for up to 12 weeks demonstrated highly reproducible pharmacokinetic profiles. The continuous dopaminergic stimulation profile afforded by SER‐214 could represent a significant advance in the treatment of PD, with potential to be a viable, once‐per‐week therapy for PD patients.
Volumetric correlates of cognitive functioning in nondemented patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Filoteo J. Vincent , Reed Jason D. , Litvan Irene , Harrington Deborah L.
Published: September 2013

A challenge in Parkinson's disease (PD) is to identify biomarkers of early cognitive change because functioning in some domains may be more prognostic of dementia. Few studies have investigated whether structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) correlates in a regionally specific manner with functioning in different cognitive domains. The aim of this study was to identify neuroanatomical correlates of executive functioning, memory, and visual cognition in PD without dementia. 3T MRI was conducted in 51 PD patients and 39 control participants. Brain volumes were measured in structures comprising the frontostriatal cognitive‐control system, the medial temporal memory system, the ventral object‐based system, and the dorsal spatial‐based system. Measures of executive functioning (Stroop Test; Letter Fluency), memory (California Verbal Learning Test), visuospatial cognition (Judgment of Line Orientation), and visuoconstruction (Pentagon Copy) were correlated with volumes comprising each system. Poorer executive functioning largely correlated with decreased frontostriatal volumes. Poorer memory correlated with decreased volumes in all medial temporal regions, but also with frontostriatal volumes. Poorer visuospatial cognition correlated with decreased volumes in the object‐based system, whereas poorer visuoconstruction correlated with decreased frontal and object‐based system volumes. These relationships were nonsignificant in the control group. This is the first study to demonstrate that subtle changes in multiple cognitive domains in PD without dementia correlate with regional volumes in specific systems implicated in the development of cognitive impairment. The findings suggest that structural MRI holds promise as a marker of early changes in different brain systems, some of which may predict future cognitive deterioration. © 2013 Movement Disorder Society
Task force report: Scales for screening and evaluating tremor: Critique and recommendations
Authors: Elble Rodger , Bain Peter , João Forjaz Maria , Haubenberger Dietrich , Testa Claudia , Goetz Christopher G. , Leentjens Albert F. G. , Martinez‐Martin Pablo , Pavy‐Le Traon Anne , Post Bart , Sampaio Cristina , Stebbins Glenn T. , Weintraub Daniel , Schrag Anette
Published: September 2013

The Movement Disorder Society established a task force to review rating scales for the assessment of tremor. Screening instruments used in identifying patients with tremor were also reviewed. Seven tremor severity scales, six activities of daily living (ADL)/disability scales, four quality‐of‐life scales, and five screening instruments were identified by searching PubMed.gov. The availability, use, acceptability, reliability, validity, and sensitivity to change were reviewed for each scale; and each scale was classified as recommended, suggested or listed based on whether 3, 2, or 1 of the following criteria were met: (1) used in the assessment of tremor (yes/no), (2) used in published studies by people other than the developers (yes/no), and (3) successful clinimetric testing (yes/no). Five tremor severity scales (the Fahn‐Tolosa‐Marin Tremor Rating Scale, the Bain and Findley Clinical Tremor Rating Scale, the Bain and Findley Spirography Scale, the Washington Heights‐Inwood Genetic Study of Essential Tremor Rating Scale, and the Tremor Research Group Essential Tremor Rating Assessment Scale), one ADL/disability scale (the Bain and Findley Tremor ADL Scale), one quality‐of‐life scale (the Quality of Life in Essential Tremor Questionnaire), and one screening instrument (the Washington Heights‐Inwood Genetic Study of Essential Tremor Rating Scale, version 1) are recommended using these criteria. However, all scales need a more comprehensive analysis of sensitivity to change in order to judge their utility in clinical trials and individual patient assessments. The task force recommends that further work with existing recommended scales be performed as opposed to the development of new tremor scales. © 2013 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Reinnervation of segmented latissimus dorsi muscle with the distal stump of the thoracodorsal nerve: A preliminary experimental study in rats
Authors: Kurita Masakazu , Yamazaki Kazunori , Eto Hitomi , Seike Shien , Takushima Akihiko , Harii Kiyonori
Published: September 2013

To date, nerve stumps have been dissected at the proximal side of the donor muscle for reinnervation of the muscle in free neurovascular muscle transfer. Herein, we examined the use of the distal thoracodorsal nerve, dissected from the muscle belly at the distal side of the latissimus dorsi muscle, for the reinnervation of muscle. The rat right latissimus dorsi muscle was employed as the model for our study. Twenty Wistar rats were used in this study. A rectangular muscle segment was dissected with the distal stump of dominant thoracodorsal nerve. After rotation of muscle, the distal nerve stump was sutured to a severed proximal recipient thoracodorsal nerve (n = 5). The degree of reinnervation through the distal nerve stump was compared with control groups that received proximal‐to‐proximal nerve sutures (n = 5), nerves that were not severed (n = 5), and severed nerves that were not sutured (n = 5) using electrophysiological, histological, and muscular volume assessments. Reinnervation of the distal nerve stump was confirmed by the contraction of the muscle following electrical stimulation and electromyography. Crossing of axons into motor endplates was confirmed by histology. Results of these assays were similar to that of the proximal nerve suture group. The volume of muscle in the distal nerve suture group was not significant different from that of the proximal nerve suture group (P = 0.63). It was demonstrated that the distal stump of the thoracodorsal nerve can be used to innervate segmented latissimus dorsi muscle. This novel procedure for the reinnervation of transplanted muscle deserves further investigations. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 33:545–550, 2013.
Foot and ankle reconstruction: An experience on the use of 14 different flaps in 226 cases
Authors: Zhu Yue‐Liang , Wang Yi , He Xiao‐Qing , Zhu Min , Li Fu‐Bin , Xu Yong‐Qing
Published: September 2013

The aim of this report was to present our experience on the use of different flaps for soft tissue reconstruction of the foot and ankle. From 2007 to 2012, the soft tissue defects of traumatic injuries of the foot and ankle were reconstructed using 14 different flaps in 226 cases (162 male and 64 female). There were 62 pedicled flaps and 164 free flaps used in reconstruction. The pedicled flaps included sural flap, saphenous flap, dorsal pedal neurocutaneous flap, pedicled peroneal artery perforator flap, pedicled tibial artery perforator flap, and medial plantar flap. The free flaps were latissimus musculocutaneous flap, anterolateral thigh musculocutaneous flap, groin flap, lateral arm flap, anterolateral thigh perforator flap, peroneal artery perforator flap, thoracdorsal artery perforator flap, medial arm perforator flap. The sensory nerve coaptation was not performed for all of flaps. One hundred and ninety‐four cases were combined with open fractures. One hundred and sixty‐two cases had tendon. Among 164 free flaps, 8 flaps were completely lost, in which the defects were managed by the secondary procedures. Among the 57 flaps for plantar foot coverage (25 pedicled flaps and 32 free flaps), ulcers were developed in 5 pedicled flaps and 6 free flaps after weight bearing, and infection was found in 14 flaps. The donor site complications were seen in 3 cases with the free anterolateral thigh perforator flap transfer. All of limbs were preserved and the patients regained walking and daily activities. All of patients except for one regained protective sensation from 3 to 12 months postoperatively. Our experience showed that the sural flap and saphenous flap could be good options for the coverage of the defects at malleolus, dorsal hindfoot and midfoot. Plantar foot, forefoot and large size defects could be reconstructed with free anterolateral thigh perforator flap. For the infected wounds with dead spce, the free latissimus dorsi musculocutaneous flap remained to be the optimal choice. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 33:600–604, 2013.
Identification of novel β‐lactoglobulin‐derived peptides, wheylin‐1 and ‐2, having anxiolytic‐like activity in mice
Authors: Yamada Ayako , Mizushige Takafumi , Kanamoto Ryuhei , Ohinata Kousaku
Published: September 2013

Scope

We found that thermolysin digest of β‐lactoglobulin, a major protein of bovine milk whey, exhibited anxiolytic‐like activity in a behavioral experiment in mice, and then identified active components from the digest.

Methods and results

In the elevated plus‐maze test, thermolysin digest of β‐lactoglobulin had anxiolytic‐like activity after intraperitoneal administration in mice. We identified several low‐molecular‐weight peptides in a fraction separated by reverse‐phase HPLC having the most potent anxiolytic‐like activities. Among them, Met‐His and Met‐Lys‐Gly, corresponding to β‐lactoglobulin (145–146) and (7–9), had anxiolytic‐like activity at a dose of 0.3–1 and 3 mg/kg, respectively, after intraperitoneal administration. We named Met‐His and Met‐Lys‐Gly wheylin‐1 and ‐2, respectively. Next, we focused on wheylin‐1, a more potent peptide with anxiolytic‐like activity than wheylin‐2. Wheylin‐1 (1 mg/kg) had anxiolytic‐like activity after oral administration. In the open‐field test, wheylin‐1 was also active. The anxiolytic‐like activity of wheylin‐1 was blocked by bicuculline, an antagonist of γ‐amino butyric acid type A (GABAA) receptor, suggesting that wheylin‐1 exhibited anxiolytic‐like activity via the GABAA system.

Conclusion

Novel β‐lactoglobulin‐derived peptides, wheylin‐1 and ‐2, may exhibit anxiolytic‐like activities.
Antihyperglycemic effect of equol, a daidzein derivative, in cultured L6 myocytes and ob/ob mice
Authors: Cheong Sun Hee , Furuhashi Keisuke , Ito Katsuki , Nagaoka Masato , Yonezawa Takayuki , Miura Yutaka , Yagasaki Kazumi
Published: September 2013

Scope

Molecular mechanisms for the potential antihyperglycemic effect of equol remain to be elucidated. In this study, we investigated the in vitro effect of equol on glucose uptake, AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation, and glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) translocation to plasma membrane in L6 myocytes, and its in vivo antihyperglycemic effect in obese‐diabetic model ob/ob mice.

Methods and results

Equol was found to promote glucose uptake, AMPK phosphorylation, and GLUT4 translocation detected by Western blotting analyses in L6 myotubes under a condition of insulin absence. Equol (0.05% in diet) suppressed the rise in serum glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, and lipid peroxide concentrations and the hepatic triglyceride level as compared with those in the control group. Moreover, equol treatment suppressed the rises in fasting blood glucose level and improved the impaired glucose tolerance in ob/ob mice. Furthermore, equol treatment was demonstrated to improve expression of hepatic gluconeogenesis‐ and lipogenesis‐related genes in terms of glucose and lipid metabolism.

Conclusion

The hypoglycemic effect of equol is related to increased GLUT4 translocation to the plasma membrane via AMPK activation. In addition, equol suppresses the fasting blood glucose level and gene expression of hepatic enzymes related to glucose metabolism. These results strongly suggest that equol has antidiabetic potential.
Prostate cancer detection and diagnosis: the role of MR and its comparison with other diagnostic modalities – a radiologist's perspective
Authors: Penzkofer Tobias , Tempany‐Afdhal Clare M.
Published: September 2013

It is now universally recognized that many prostate cancers are over‐diagnosed and over‐treated. The European Randomized Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer from 2009 evidenced that, to save one man from death from prostate cancer, over 1400 men need to be screened, and 48 need to undergo treatment. The detection of prostate cancer is traditionally based on digital rectal examination (DRE) and the measurement of serum prostate‐specific antigen (PSA), followed by ultrasound‐guided biopsy. The primary role of imaging for the detection and diagnosis of prostate cancer has been transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) guidance during biopsy. Traditionally, MRI has been used primarily for the staging of disease in men with biopsy‐proven cancer. It has a well‐established role in the detection of T3 disease, planning of radiation therapy, especially three‐dimensional conformal or intensity‐modulated external beam radiation therapy, and planning and guiding of interstitial seed implant or brachytherapy. New advances have now established that prostate MRI can accurately characterize focal lesions within the gland, an ability that has led to new opportunities for improved cancer detection and guidance for biopsy. Two new approaches to prostate biopsy are under investigation. Both use pre‐biopsy MRI to define potential targets for sampling, and the biopsy is performed either with direct real‐time MR guidance (in‐bore) or MR fusion/registration with TRUS images (out‐of‐bore). In‐bore and out‐of‐bore MRI‐guided prostate biopsies have the advantage of using the MR target definition for the accurate localization and sampling of targets or suspicious lesions. The out‐of‐bore method uses combined MRI/TRUS with fusion software that provides target localization and increases the sampling accuracy of TRUS‐guided biopsies by integrating prostate MRI information with TRUS. Newer parameters for each imaging modality, such as sonoelastography or shear wave elastography, contrast‐enhanced ultrasound and MRI elastography, show promise to further enrich datasets. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A constrained‐optimization methodology for the detection phase in contact mechanics simulations
Authors: Aragón Alejandro M. , Yastrebov Vladislav A. , Molinari Jean‐François
Published: September 2013

The detection phase in computational contact mechanics can be subdivided into a global search and a local detection. When potential contact is detected by the former, a rigorous local detection determines which surface elements come or may come in contact in the current increment. We first introduce a rigorous definition of the closest point for non‐differentiable lower‐dimensional manifolds. We then simplify the detection by formulating an optimization problem subject to inequality constraints. The formulation is then solved using different techniques from the field of mathematical optimization, for both linear and quadratic finite element meshes. The resulting general and robust detection scheme is tested on a set of problems and compared with other techniques commonly used in computational geometry. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Highly accurate surface and volume integration on implicit domains by means of moment‐fitting
Authors: Müller B. , Kummer F. , Oberlack M.
Published: September 2013

We introduce a new method for the numerical integration over curved surfaces and volumes defined by a level set function. The method is based on the solution of a small linear system based on a simplified variant of the moment‐fitting equations. Numerical experiments suggest that the accuracy of the resulting quadrature rules exceeds the accuracy of traditional methods by orders of magnitude. Using moments up to an order of p, the measured experimental orders of convergence exceed hp. Consequently, their construction is very efficient because only coarse computational grids are required. The conceptual simplicity allows for the application on very general grid types, which is demonstrated by numerical experiments on quadrilateral, triangular and hexahedral grids. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lumped mass finite element implementation of continuum theories with micro‐inertia
Authors: Lombardo Mariateresa , Askes Harm
Published: September 2013

Continuum theories can be equipped with additional inertia terms to make them capable of capturing wave dispersion effects observed in micro‐structured materials. Such terms, often called micro‐inertia, are convenient and straightforward extensions of classical continuum theories. Furthermore, the critical time step is usually increased via the inclusion of micro‐inertia. However, the drawback exists that standard finite element discretisation leads to mass matrices that cannot be lumped without losing the micro‐inertia terms. In this paper, we will develop a solution algorithm based on Neumann expansions by which this disadvantage is avoided altogether. The micro‐inertia terms are translated into modifications of the residual force vector, so that the system matrix is the usual lumped mass matrix and all advantages of explicit time integration are maintained. The numerical stability of the algorithm and its effect on the dispersive properties of the model are studied in detail. Numerical examples are used to illustrate the various aspects of the algorithm. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A comparative investigation of bio waste filler (wood apple‐coconut) reinforced polymer composites
Authors: Ojha Shakuntala , Raghavendra G. , Acharya S.K.
Published: September 2013

During the last century natural fibers are used as reinforcement in polymer composite has been continuously growing in the composite industry. This polymer matrix composite has wide range of application in hostile environment where it is exposed to external attacks such as solid particle erosion. The mechanical properties of different polymer composites are also most important characteristics. An attempt has been made to compare the mechanical and tribological properties of the both biowaste wood apple and coconut shell particulate polymer matrix composite. The results show that maximum flexural strength is obtained 78.19 MPa for wood apple shell and 68.25 MPa for coconut shell at 15 wt% filler content. The wood apple particulate composite shows best erosion and mechanical properties than coconut particulate composite. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:180–185, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
The pentafluorostyrene endeavours with atom transfer radical polymerization—quo vadis?
Authors: Hvilsted Søren
Published: September 2013

The versatility of the atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of pentafluorostyrene (FS) is comprehensively evaluated. The ATRP of a wide range of monomers derived from FS is likewise discussed with emphasis on the potential polymer applications. A large number of block and star copolymers centred around polypentafluorostyrene (PFS) and prepared primarily using the bromomacroinitiator concept is surveyed. Here the main emphasis is on the feasibility of the polymer design, but also the very many different applications are highlighted. The potential grafting onto PFS and PFS block copolymers by exploitation of the very labile para‐fluorine demonstrates new material architecture possibilities through very mild reaction conditions. Finally the utility of PFS in various conducting materials is elaborated. The amphiphilic nature of PFS in triblock copolymers with polyethers has been exploited for Li+ ion electrolytes. The convenient grafting of PFS through ‘click’ chemistry to a polysulfone and subsequent phosphonation of the PFS grafts seem very beneficial for the fabrication of proton conducting materials with high conductivity. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Syntheses of α‐bis(4‐aminophenyl)‐ and α,ω‐tetrakis(4‐aminophenyl)‐ functionalized polymers using 1,1‐bis(4‐aminophenyl)ethylene in atom transfer radical polymerization reactions
Authors: Summers Gabriel J , Ndawuni Mzikayise P , Summers Carol A
Published: September 2013

The preparation of a symmetrically disubstituted 1,1‐diphenylethylene derivative, 1,1‐bis(4‐aminophenyl)ethylene, by the Wittig reaction as well as the preparation of primary amine chain‐end‐functionalized polymers using that derivative in atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) reactions are reported. A new primary diamine initiator system was generated in situ by the atom transfer radical addition reaction of (1‐bromoethyl)benzene with 1,1‐bis(4‐aminophenyl)ethylene in the presence of copper(I) bromide/2,2′‐bipyridyl as the catalyst system and employed as the primary diamine‐functionalized initiator for the polymerization of styrene by ATRP methods to produce well‐defined α‐bis(4‐aminophenyl)‐functionalized polystyrene. The polymerization kinetic data for the synthesis of α‐bis(4‐aminophenyl)‐functionalized polystyrene shows that the polymerization process followed first‐order rate kinetics with respect to monomer consumption. The number‐average molecular weights (Mn = 1.1 × 103 to 13.14 × 103 g mol−1) of the α‐bis(4‐aminophenyl)‐functionalized polymers increased linearly with percentage monomer conversion and polymers with narrow molecular weight distributions (Mw/Mn = 1.1–1.25) were obtained. The polymerization processes were monitored using gas chromatographic analyses to determine the extent of monomer consumption as a function of time. In addition, α,ω‐tetrakis(4‐aminophenyl)‐functionalized polystyrene was prepared by a new, controlled/living, in situ post‐ATRP chain‐end functionalization reaction which involved the direct addition of 1,1‐bis(4‐aminophenyl)ethylene to the ω‐terminus of α‐bis(4‐aminophenyl)‐functionalized polystyrene, without the need for the isolation and purification of the polymeric precursor. The organic precursor compounds, the primary diamine‐functionalized 1,1‐diphenylethylene derivative and the functionalized polymers were characterized using 1H NMR, 13C NMR and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, size exclusion chromatography, thin‐layer chromatography and non‐aqueous titration measurements. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Distribution of catechol in emulsions
Authors: Losada Barreiro Sonia , Bravo Díaz Carlos , Costa Marlene , Paiva‐Martins Fátima
Published: September 2013

In this work, we have evaluated the effects of emulsifier concentration on the distribution of catechol (1,2‐dihydroxybenzene, CAT) in food‐grade emulsions composed of stripped corn oil, acidic water, and Tween 20. Auxiliary experiments in binary stripped corn oil–water mixtures, in the absence of emulsifier, showed that CAT is both oil and water soluble (partition constant  = 0.34). Addition of Tween 20 to prepare kinetically stable emulsions creates an interfacial region, and the distribution of CAT is now described by two partition constants, that between the oil and interfacial region, , and that between the aqueous and interfacial region, . These partition constants were determined in the intact emulsion by employing a kinetic method that exploits the reaction between the hydrophobic 4‐hexadecylbenzenediazonium ions, 16‐ArN2+, and CAT. Results show that CAT distributes between the three regions. At emulsifier volume fractions of ΦI = 0.005, CAT is predominantly located (~61%) in the aqueous region, about 26% is in the interfacial region, and only a small fraction (~13%) in the oil region. An increase in emulsifier concentration promotes the incorporation of CAT to the interfacial region up to ~70% at ΦI = 0.037. Results obtained should contribute to a better understanding of the antioxidant efficiency in inhibiting lipid oxidation and to the development of new strategies to prepare healthier and more nutritional foods with longer shelf life. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.