bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Radiostereometric analysis using clinical radiographic views: Validation measuring total hip replacement wear
Authors: Yuan Xunhua , Lam Tin Cheung Kimberley , Howard James L. , Lanting Brent A. , Teeter Matthew G. 
Published: January 2016

ABSTRACTRadiostereometric analysis (RSA) is a stereo X‐ray technique used in clinical research studies to evaluate micro‐motion and wear of orthopaedic implants within bone. While highly accurate and precise, its adoption has been limited due to technical requirements such as the need for implanted marker beads and radiograph view angles determined by a calibration cage. We propose a new technique that separates the calibration procedure from the patient examination, enabling clinical radiograph views to be used for RSA measurements. The concept of a reference plate was adapted to establish the link between calibration procedure and patient examination procedure for cassette radiography, which may not be necessary for digital radiography. A hip wear phantom was used to validate this technique by comparing the error and repeatability of the novel procedure with that of conventional RSA. Femoral head penetration was measured versus the acetabular cup (head/cup) and marker beads in the acetabular liner (head/liner). Conventional RSA had lower inferior–superior average error (p = 0.03 for head/cup) while the modified RSA had lower anterior–posterior average error (p = 0.01). Average error was greater but not significantly so for the medial–lateral (p = 0.06) and 3D (p = 0.97) measurements. The head/liner method had lower average errors (p < 0.0001) for both procedures, but did not affect repeatability, which was similar between techniques. The novel procedure's average error and repeatability was therefore, similar to conventional RSA. This new technique could be applied to any joint with two clinical radiograph view angles pending further validation in subjects. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:1521–1528, 2016.
Clinical application of decellularized and lyophilized human amnion/chorion membrane grafts for closing post‐laryngectomy pharyngocutaneous fistulas
Authors: Kakabadze Zurab , Mardaleishvili Konstantine , Loladze George , Javakhishvili Ivane , Chakhunasvili Konstantine , Karalashvili Lika , Sukhitashvili Natia , Chutkerashvili Gocha , Kakabadze Ann , Chakhunasvili David 
Published: January 2016

Background and ObjectivesSquamous cell carcinoma is the most common pathological type among the cancers of the larynx. Standard treatment for squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx is the combination of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and laryngectomy. Pharyngocutaneous fistula is a common complication of laryngectomy. We hypothesized that decellularized and lyophilized human amnion/chorion membrane can be an effective, non‐invasive method of treating pharyngocutaneous fistula.MethodsA total of 67 patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma were retrospectively analyzed after treatment in a prospective trial. After preoperative chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and total or extended laryngectomy, primary wound healing occurred in 42 (62.7%) patients. Pharyngocutaneous fistula developed in 8 (11.9%) patients. Decellularized and lyophilized human amnion/chorion membrane grafts were used to reconstruct the fistulas.ResultsThe average time for the full healing of the wound in all patients after transplantation of these grafts was 18 days.ConclusionThe advantages of using these grafts over other existing methods of pharyngocutaneous fistula treatment are that they are non‐invasive, prevent donor morbidity, and enable management of the wound without using classical wound gauze. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;113:538–543. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Surgical Oncology Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of microscopic extra‐nodal extension (ENE) on locoregional recurrence following curative surgery for papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Lang Brian H.‐H. , Shek Tony W.H. , Wan Koon Yat 
Published: January 2016

BackgroundThe presence of microscopic extra‐nodal extension (ENE) may increase locoregional recurrence (LRR) in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). We aimed to evaluate the association between microscopic ENE, response to initial therapy and LRR risk following total thyroidectomy, therapeutic neck dissection, and radioactive iodine (RAI) ablation in PTC.MethodsOf the 369 eligible PTC patients, 264 (71.5%) did not have microscopic ENE (group I) while 105 (28.5%) did (group II). All presented with clinical nodal metastasis (cN1) and underwent therapeutic neck dissection and RAI ablation. Biochemical incompleteness meant post‐ablation stimulated thyroglobulin (sTg) >10 ng/ml. Multivariate analyses were conducted to identify independent factors for LRR.ResultsBiochemical incompleteness was significantly more common group II (43.8% vs. 17.4%, P < 0.05). The 10‐year locoregional free‐survival was significantly worse in group II than I (52.0% vs. 86.2%, P = 0.005). After adjusting for other significant factors, age <45 (P < 0.05), multifocality (P < 0.05), presence of ENE (P = 0.027) were independent risk factors of LRR. The number and size of positive lymph nodes were not independent factors.ConclusionsPatients with microscopic ENE were significantly more likely to have biochemical incompleteness after initial therapy. After adjusting for other significant primary and nodal characteristics, microscopic ENE was an independent factor for LRR in patients with cN1. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;113:526–531. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ultrashort‐pulse Laser Structuring of Thin‐film Solar Modules
Authors: Ametowobla Mawuli , Matthäus Gabor 
Published: January 2016

AbstractWith support from the German “Innovationsallianz Photovoltaik”, the joint research project T4nPV demonstrated ultrashort‐pulse all‐laser scribed CIGS solar modules with a 5.9 % (relative) higher electrical conversion efficiency compared to conventional, mechanically scribed reference modules. This remarkable efficiency gain was achieved by a reduction of the interconnection width down to approximately 100 μm, made possible by high performance optics, sensor technology, control and actuation components, which were designed and built up in the course of the project. Further, exceptionally high output power levels up to 1400 W in an ultrashort‐pulse thin‐disk high power amplifier were achieved.
Finding the Right Joining Technique
Authors: Wenzlau Carsten 
Published: January 2016

AbstractTo join membranes tightly, different joining techniques are available. Which of them is best suited for a specific application depends on production requirements like quantity, cycle time, production range, total cost, and process monitoring. With its non‐contact energy input, small thermal and mechanical load, short joining times and high process stability, laser joining proved to be a practical method for joining sensitive membranes.
Synaptic failure and α‐synuclein
Authors: Calo Laura , Wegrzynowicz Michal , Santivañez‐Perez Jessica , Grazia Spillantini Maria 
Published: January 2016

AbstractAlthough the physiological function of α‐synuclein is not fully understood, it has been suggested to primarily localize to the presynaptic terminals of mature neurons, where it fulfills roles in synaptic function and plasticity. Based on current knowledge, α‐synuclein (αSYN) is thought to be involved in maintaining neurotransmitter homeostasis by regulating synaptic vesicle fusion, clustering, and trafficking between the reserve and ready‐releasable pools, as well as interacting with neurotransmitter membrane transporters. In this review, we focus on evidence proposing synapses as the main site of αSYN pathology and its propagation in Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies, which belong to a group of neurodegenerative diseases known as α‐synucleinopathies. We provide an overview of the evidence supporting presynaptic dysfunction as the primary event in the pathogenesis of these conditions. © 2016 Movement Disorder Society
A new total hemiface allotransplantation model in rats
Authors: Kulahci Yalcin , Altuntas Selman H. , Karagoz Huseyin , Cwykiel Joanna M. , Zor Fatih , Siemionow Maria 
Published: January 2016

IntroductionVascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA), a new reconstructive option for patients suffering from extensive facial defects leads to superior functional and aesthetic outcomes compared to the standard autologous reconstruction. Among VCA recipients, each case involves different facial structures and tissues depending on the patient's injury, thus drawing conclusions on the mechanism of immune interactions between the donor and recipient is challenging. This study introduces a new total hemiface VCA model, including scalp, external ear, mystacial pad, premaxilla, upper/lower lids, nose, and upper/lower lips to evaluate the effect of transplantation of multitissue VCA on the recipient's immune response.Material and MethodsTen hemiface allotransplantations were performed in two groups between Lewis–Lewis (isograft) and LBN‐Lewis (allograft) rats. Cyclosporine A (CsA) monotherapy was applied in the allograft group to prevent rejection.ResultsAll flaps survived up to 100 days post‐transplant. The mean warm ischemia time was 45 minutes. Histological analysis revealed normal bone, cartilage (ear and nose), conjunctiva, palpebra, and eyelashes. Flow cytometry confirmed donor‐specific chimerism for T cells (CD4/RT1n and CD8/RT1n) and B cells (CD45RA/RT1n) in the peripheral blood of all rats in the allotransplantation group. At post‐transplant day 7, chimerism levels were at 1.68% for CD4/RT1n, 0.46% for CD8/RT1n and 0.64% for CD45RA/RT1n. However, chimerism levels for CD4/RT1n, CD8/RT1n, and CD45RA/RT1n populations decreased at long‐term follow‐up (at post‐transplant day 100) to 0.08%, 0.04%, and 0.23%, respectively.ConclusionThe feasibility and long‐term survival of the new hemiface VCA transplantation model was confirmed, donor‐specific chimerism and post‐transplant tissue changes were evaluated. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 36:230–238, 2016.
Technique and outcomes of laparoscopic bulge repair after abdominal free flap reconstruction
Authors: Lee Johnson C. , Whipple Lauren A. , Binetti Brian , Singh T. Paul , Agag Richard 
Published: January 2016

IntroductionBulges and hernias after abdominal free flap surgery are uncommon with rates ranging from as low as 0–36%. In the free flap breast reconstruction population, there are no clear guidelines or optimal strategies to treating postoperative bulges. We describe our minimally invasive technique and outcomes in managing bulge complications in abdominal free flap breast reconstruction patients.MethodsA retrospective review was performed on all abdominal free flap breast reconstruction patients at Albany Medical Center from 2011 to 2014. All patients with bulges on clinical exam underwent abdominal CT imaging prior to consultation with a minimally invasive surgeon. Confirmed symptomatic bulges were repaired laparoscopically and patients were monitored regularly in the outpatient setting.ResultsSixty‐two patients received a total of 80 abdominal free flap breast reconstructions. Flap types included 41 deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP), 36 muscle‐sparing transverse rectus abdominus myocutaneous (msTRAM), 2 superficial inferior epigastric artery, and 1 transverse rectus abdominus myocutaneous flap. There were a total of 9 (14.5%) bulge complications, with the majority of patients having undergone msTRAM or DIEP reconstruction. There were no complications, revisions, or recurrences from laparoscopic bulge repair after an average follow‐up of 181 days.ConclusionAlthough uncommon, bulge formation after abdominal free flap reconstruction can create significant morbidity to patients. Laproscopic hernia repair using composite mesh underlay offers an alternative to traditional open hernia repair and can be successfully used to minimize scarring, infection, and pain to free flap patients who have already undergone significant reconstructive procedures. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 36:367–371, 2016.
Molecular dynamics simulations of thermal transport in isotopically modulated semiconductor nanostructures
Authors: Frieling Rafael , Eon Soizic , Wolf Dietrich , Bracht Hartmut 
Published: January 2016

AbstractIn this paper, we investigate the effect of isotopic modulation on the thermal conductivity of semiconductor nanostructures. The isotope doping is of particular interest for the application of semiconductors as thermoelectric materials as it leaves the electronic properties practically unaffected while the phononic transport is retarded. This approach could increase the figure of merit of thermoelectric generators by decreasing the thermal conductivity of semiconductors. We use non‐equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations to examine thermal transport in isotopically engineered semiconductors. The temperature profiles along the sample region deduced from the simulations allow the extraction of thermal conductivities. The reliability of the MD‐predicted thermal conductivities is studied by analyzing the influence of the input parameters on the results. The first set of samples are isotopically modified silicon samples. The influence of temperature, isotopic composition, and ordering of isotopic defects on the thermal conductivity of silicon is studied. The second material system under investigation is silicon germanium alloys. The influence of isotopic modulation on the thermal conductivity of Si–Ge alloys is examined for varying chemical composition. The thermal conductivities predicted by MD are compared to results derived from the solution of the Boltzmann transport equation in the relaxation time approach.
Effect of glide path and apical preparation size on the incidence of apical crack during the canal preparation using Reciproc, WaveOne, and ProTaper Next systems in curved root canals: A stereomicroscope study
Authors: Topçuoğlu Hüseyin Sinan , Düzgün Salih , Akpek Firdevs , Topçuoğlu Gamze 
Published: January 2016

SummaryThis study evaluated the effect of creating a glide path and apical preparation size on the incidence of apical cracks during canal preparation in mandibular molar teeth with curved canals. One hundred and forty extracted teeth were used. The teeth were randomly assigned to one control group or six experimental groups (n = 20 per group) for canal preparation. No preparation was performed on teeth in the control group. In three of the six experimental groups, a glide path was not created; a glide path was created on the curved mesial canals of all teeth in the remaining three experimental groups. All teeth in experimental groups were then instrumented with the following systems: Reciproc, WaveOne (WO), and ProTaper Next (PTN). Digital images of the apical root surfaces of these teeth were recorded before preparation, after instrumentation with size 25 files, and after instrumentation with size 40 files. The images were then inspected for the presence of any new apical cracks and propagation. There was no significant difference between the experimental groups during canal preparation using size 25 files (p > 0.05). Reciproc and WO caused more new apical cracks than did PTN during canal preparation using size 40 files (p < 0.05). However, canal preparation using size 40 files did not cause propagation of existing cracks (p > 0.05). Performing a glide path prior to canal preparation did not change the incidence of apical crack during preparation. Additionally, increasing apical preparation size may increase the incidence of apical crack during canal preparation. SCANNING 38:585–590, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Easy and accurate variance estimation of the nonparametric estimator of the partial area under the ROC curve and its application
Authors: Yu Jihnhee , Yang Luge , Vexler Albert , Hutson Alan D. 
Published: January 2016

The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve is a popular technique with applications, for example, investigating an accuracy of a biomarker to delineate between disease and non‐disease groups. A common measure of accuracy of a given diagnostic marker is the area under the ROC curve (AUC).In contrast with the AUC, the partial area under the ROC curve (pAUC) looks into the area with certain specificities (i.e., true negative rate) only, and it can be often clinically more relevant than examining the entire ROC curve. The pAUC is commonly estimated based on a U‐statistic with the plug‐in sample quantile, making the estimator a non‐traditional U‐statistic. In this article, we propose an accurate and easy method to obtain the variance of the nonparametric pAUC estimator. The proposed method is easy to implement for both one biomarker test and the comparison of two correlated biomarkers because it simply adapts the existing variance estimator of U‐statistics. In this article, we show accuracy and other advantages of the proposed variance estimation method by broadly comparing it with previously existing methods. Further, we develop an empirical likelihood inference method based on the proposed variance estimator through a simple implementation. In an application, we demonstrate that, depending on the inferences by either the AUC or pAUC, we can make a different decision on a prognostic ability of a same set of biomarkers. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cholecystectomy Causes Ultrasound Evidence of Increased Hepatic Steatosis
Authors: Yun Sangchul , Choi Dongho , Lee Kyeong Geun , Kim Han Joon , Kang Bo‐Kyeong , Kim Hyunsung , Paik Seung Sam 
Published: January 2016

AbstractBackgroundCholecystectomy might contribute to the development of hepatic steatosis through metabolic changes. The biologic alteration of the enterohepatic circulation of bile acids and the alteration of the metabolic activity of bile acid that follows cholecystectomy may contribute to hepatic steatosis. This prospective study was conducted to clarify the possibility of steatosis development after cholecystectomy.MethodsFrom October 2013 to July 2014, 82 consecutive patients with a presumptive diagnosis of gallbladder disease were cholecystectomized. Liver parenchymal steatosis was measured using ultrasound and the hepatic steatosis index.ResultsIn all 82 patients, the hepatic steatosis index was found to be significantly correlated with the US fatty liver grade (Spearman’s correlation r2 = 0.331, P < 0.001). A total of 62 patients were followed up for 3 months. Comparison with the initial grade showed that 12 (18.5 %) patients had worsened from normal to mild (n = 10), from mild to moderate (n = 1), and from mild to severe (n = 1). The other patients stayed at their initial grade except one patient who improved (from moderated to mild). Analysis of laboratory findings showed that white blood cell count, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase level, and total bilirubin level were decreased. However, serum albumin and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels significantly increased.ConclusionsHepatic steatosis significantly developed 3 months after cholecystectomy. Therefore, cholecystectomy might be considered a risk factor for hepatic steatosis, but the relationship should be confirmed with long‐term follow‐up from a large group of patients.
Epidemiology and socioeconomic impact of seasonal affective disorder in Austria
Authors: Pjrek E. , Baldinger-Melich P. , Spies M. , Papageorgiou K. , Kasper S. , Winkler D. 
Published: January 2016

AbstractBackgroundSeasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a subtype of recurrent depressive or bipolar disorder that is characterized by regular onset and remission of affective episodes at the same time of the year. The aim of the present study was to provide epidemiological data and data on the socioeconomic impact of SAD in the general population of Austria.MethodsWe conducted a computer-assisted telephone interview in 910 randomly selected subjects (577 females and 333 males) using the Seasonal Health Questionnaire (SHQ), the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ), and the Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS). Telephone numbers were randomly drawn from all Austrian telephone books and transformed using the random last digits method. The last birthday method was employed to choose the target person for the interviews.ResultsOut of our subjects, 2.5% fulfilled criteria for the seasonal pattern specifier according to DSM-5 and 2.4% (95% CI = 1.4–3.5%) were diagnosed with SAD. When applying the ICD-10 criteria 1.9% (95% CI = 0.9–2.8%) fulfilled SAD diagnostic criteria. The prevalence of fall-winter depression according to the Kasper-Rosenthal criteria was determined to be 3.5%. The criteria was fulfilled by 15.1% for subsyndromal SAD (s-SAD). We did not find any statistically significant gender differences in prevalence rates. When using the DSM-5 as a gold standard for the diagnosis of SAD, diagnosis derived from the SPAQ yielded a sensitivity of 31.8% and a specificity of 97.2%. Subjects with SAD had significantly higher scores on the SDS and higher rates of sick leave and days with reduced productivity than healthy subjects.ConclusionsPrevalence estimates for SAD with the SHQ are lower than with the SPAQ. Our data are indicative of the substantial burden of disease and the socioeconomic impact of SAD. This epidemiological data shows a lack of gender differences in SAD prevalence. The higher rates of females in clinical SAD samples might, at least in part, be explained by lower help seeking behaviour in males.