bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Design and validation of a diaphragm pump for pediatric CRRT during ECMO
Authors: Santhanakrishnan Arvind , Nestle Trent , Moore Brian L. , Yoganathan Ajit P. , Paden Matthew L. 
Published: November 2014

Purpose Children requiring artificial heart-lung support through extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are at increased risk of developing acute kidney injury (AKI). Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is the preferred method of treatment in pediatric AKI patients. CRRT devices are noted to provide inaccurate fluid balance (FB) when operated under low flow rates seen in children. We present the design and validation of a novel pump concept to provide accurate pediatric CRRT during ECMO. Methods A diaphragm pump was prototyped with a working stroke volume (SV) of 7 mL. Fluid transport occurs by periodic expansion and contraction of a flexible membrane due to pressure fluctuations of hydraulic fluid contained below its surface. Comparison of intravenous (IV) pumps to the diaphragm pump was conducted in vitro across the range of pressures observed during CRRT in ECMO. The pump was integrated into a CRRT circuit parallel with ECMO and FB accuracy was evaluated. Results The pump design improved efficiency of fluid transport, with flow rate errors as low as 1-5 ml/hr as compared to IV pumps (15-50 ml/hr). The SV of IV pumps increased with source pressure in a nearly linear manner compared to the minimal variation produced by the diaphragm pump. Inclusion of the diaphragm pump in a conventional CRRT circuit with ECMO improved the FB accuracy. Conclusions A novel diaphragm pump concept has been presented for providing CRRT during ECMO in the pediatric population. Improvement of the pump accuracy compared to currently used CRRT pumps was demonstrated via in vitro testing.
Development and Analysis of Semi-Interpenetrating Polymer Networks for Brain Injection in Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Tunesi Marta , Batelli Sara , Rodilossi Serena , Russo Teresa , Grimaldi Annalisa , Forloni Gianluigi , Ambrosio Luigi , Cigada Alberto , Gloria Antonio , Albani Diego , Giordano Carmen 
Published: November 2014

Purpose Our aim was to assess the use of injectable, biocompatible and resorbable, hydrogel-based tools for innovative therapies against brain-related neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's (PD) diseases. Methods Two compositions of semi-interpenetrating polymer networks (semi-IPNs) based on collagen and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) were investigated. We examined their viscoelastic properties, flow behavior, functional injectability, as well as in vitro biocompatibility with SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells and murine primary neurons. We also evaluated the in vivo biological performance after subcutaneous and brain injection in mice. Results The selected semi-IPNs showed a gel-like behavior and were injectable through a 30 G needle, with the maximum load ranging from 3.0 to 3.9 N. In vitro results showed that immortalized cells kept their proliferative potential and neurons maintained their viability after embedding in both materials, with better performances for the gel with the higher collagen content. For both semi-IPNs, after subcutaneous injection, the inflammatory response was negligible; after brain injection, the tissue did not show any signs of damage or degeneration. Conclusions The results suggest that the selected semi-IPNs not only represent a proper environment for cells, but also, once injected in vivo, do not induce damage/inflammation in the surrounding brain tissue. These findings represent a crucial starting point for the development of minimally invasive and injectable hydrogel-based tools for innovative drug/cell-based therapeutic strategies against AD, PD, or other severe brain-related neurodegenerative pathologies.
Sternal Closure following Negative Pressure Wound Therapy: A Safe Approach with a New Titanium Device
Authors: Santarpino Giuseppe , Pollari Francesco , Fischlein Theodor J. 
Published: November 2014

Background The application of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in patients with deep wound infection after cardiac surgery has steadily increased worldwide. Following NPWT, in patients with concomitant sternal diastasis, preparation of the substernal structures for the sternal wires application is mandatory, with increased risk of severe complications, such as laceration of the right ventricle. The aim of this study is to present an innovative technique for sternal closure after NPWT, using the ASCS® System (ASCS atraumatic Sternum Closure System; KS Handelsvertretung Produktinovation, Bad Homburg, Germany). Methods Between January 2009 and August 2012, 88 patients (mean age 64.2 ± 12.4 years) with deep wound infection and sternal diastasis received NPWT; 16 of these patients (18.2%) underwent sternal closure after NPWT with ASCS®. Results In all 16 cases, neither sub-sternal dissection nor placement of trans- or peristernal wires was necessary. No damage to the aortocoronary bypass and ventricular rupture occurred. Minimal post-operative bleeding from Redon drains (mean 40 ± 10 ml) was present. At follow-up, deep wound infection and sternal diastasis did not occur. Conclusions The ASCS® System combined with NPWT in patients with postoperative deep wound infection and sternal diastasis is a feasible and safe procedure. Because preparation of the substernal structures is not necessary, this device might prevent the occurrence of severe complications. Our experience, however, is limited and larger case series are necessary to fully evaluate this new and innovative technique.
Numerical Washout Study of a Pulsatile Total Artificial Heart
Authors: Sonntag Simon J. , Kaufmann Tim A.S. , Büsen Martin R. , Laumen Marco , Gräf Felix , Linde Torsten , Steinseifer Ulrich 
Published: November 2014

Purpose For blood pumps with long term indication, blood stagnation can result in excessive thromboembolic risks for patients. This study numerically investigates the washout performance of the left pump chamber of a pulsatile total artificial heart (TAH) as well as the sensitivity of the rotational orientation of the inlet bileaflet mechanical heart valve (MHV) on blood stagnation. Methods To quantitatively evaluate the washout efficiency, a fluid-structure interaction (FSI) simulation of the artificial heart pumping process was combined with a blood washout model. Four geometries with different orientations (0°, 45°, 90° and 135°) of the inlet valve were compared with respect to washout performance. Results The calculated flow field showed a high level of agreement with particle image velocimetry (PIV) measurements. Almost complete washout was achievable after three ejection phases. Remains of old blood in relation to the chamber volume was below 0.6% for all configurations and were mainly detected opposite to the inlet and outlet port at the square edge where the membrane and the pump chamber are connected. Only a small variation in the washout efficiency and the general flow field was observed. An orientation of 0° showed minor advantages with respect to blood stagnation and recirculation. Conclusions Bileaflet MHVs were demonstrated to be only slightly sensitive to rotation regarding the washout performance of the TAH. The proposed numerical washout model proved to be an adequate tool to quantitatively compare different configurations and designs of the artificial organ regarding the potential for blood stagnation where experimental measurements are limited.
Effects of NiTi Rotary and Reciprocating Instruments on Debris and Smear Layer Scores: An SEM Evaluation
Authors: Poggio Claudio , Dagna Alberto , Chiesa Marco , Scribante Andrea , Beltrami Riccardo , Colombo Marco 
Published: November 2014

Purpose The purpose of the present study was to investigate the cleaning efficacy of 2 different nickel-titanium (NiTi) rotary systems: a new single system Reciproc compared with the rotary full sequence Mtwo. The amount of debris and the morphology of smear layer were the parameters for the evaluation of the cleanliness of root canals. The null hypothesis of the study was that there would be no significant difference in debris scores and smear layer scores between the 2 systems. Methods Forty single-rooted freshly extracted teeth were selected and divided into 2 groups. For each group, all root canals were shaped with 2 different NiTi instruments (Mtwo and Reciproc) and irrigated with 5.25% NaOCl and 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) solutions by 3 trained operators. Specimens were fractured longitudinally and prepared for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis at a standard magnification of ×5,000. The presence/absence of smear layer and the presence/absence of debris at the coronal, middle and apical third of each canal were evaluated using two 5-step scales for scores. Numeric data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U statistical tests, and significance was set at a P value <0.05. Results This study revealed significant differences among the various groups. The Mtwo group presented significantly lower smear layer scores than the Reciproc group (P<0.01) in the middle and apical third of the canal. Conclusions Conventional continuous rotary NiTi instruments associated with 5.25% NaOCl and 17% EDTA solutions seem to be better for obtaining clean dentinal canal walls. Reciprocating instruments leave a higher quantity of smear layer which covers dentinal walls and dentinal tubules.
Characterisation and Comparison of the Host Response of 6 Tissue-Based Surgical Implants in a Subcutaneous in vivo Rat Model
Authors: Bryan Nicholas , Ashwin Helen , Smart Neil J. , Wohlert Stephen , Bayon Yves , Hunt John A. 
Published: November 2014

Background Hernia repair often involves fascial augmentation using biologic prostheses. Small processing changes during preparation modulate host tissue response, which influence material efficacy and longevity. In this pilot study, a rat model was used to determine the specific influence of tissue origin, decellularisation treatment and 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDI) cross-linking. Methods Materials (1 cm2) were implanted subcutaneously into 6-week-old Wistar rats (4 materials per animal, n=6/material per time point) for 2, 5, 7, 14 and 28 days. Histologic processing was carried out after resin infiltration, observing classical histopathology and pathologic indexing. Materials comprised 6 tissue-based grafts covering both experimental and commercial porcine decellularised dermal and small intestinal submucosal materials. Results Subcutaneous delivery of biologics demonstrated material-specific inflammatory/host responses. Controlled variations of the Permacol™ manufacturing process showed sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) was the most proinflammatory decellularisation reagent, and HMDI cross-linking had no effect on host response. All materials remained recoverable after 28 days, although Surgisis™ had partially resorbed. Conclusion Differences in host responses exist between biologic implants for hernia repair in this rat model. It is postulated that these modifications are induced during processing and may have an effect on the clinical outcome of hernia repair.
Effect of Surface Treatments on the Bond Strength of Veneering Ceramic to Zirconia
Authors: Korkmaz Fatih Mehmet , Bagis Bora , Turgut Sedanur , Ates Sabit Melih , Ayaz Elif Aydogan 
Published: November 2014

Aim The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of different surface treatments on the bond strength of veneering ceramic to zirconia. Methods Square (15 mm x 10 mm x 2 mm) zirconia specimens (n=18) received one of the following surface treatments: Group 1, sandblasting; Group 2, Clearfil ceramic primer application; Group 3, grinding; Group 4, alloy primer application; and Group 5, RelyX ceramic primer application. The zirconia core specimens were layered with a veneering porcelain (5 mm x 3 mm x 3 mm). Mean shear bond strength values (MPa) were calculated. Data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc pairwise comparisons (α=0.05). Fractured surfaces of the specimens were examined with scanning electron microscope (SEM). Results This study showed that bond strengths of the metal primer-treated zirconia specimens (Group 4) were significantly higher than those of the other paired groups. The application of metal primer affected the specimens' failure mode. SEM analysis demonstrated that Group 4 had mainly cohesive fractures, while the other groups showed approximately equal levels of adhesive and mixed fracture types. The mean and SD values for shear bond strengths ranged from 8.90 ± 3.42 MPa (Group 2) to 19.74 ± 4.96 MPa (Group 4). Conclusions In conclusion, the application of a metal primer to a zirconia core increased the bond strength of veneering ceramics. The use of chemical agents to improve the strength of the zirconia core's bond to veneering ceramic may have more benefits than the use of mechanical pretreatments.
MicroRNAs 143 and 145 May be Involved in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Pathogenesis through Regulation of Target Genes and Proteins
Authors: Viana Nayara I. , Reis Sabrina T. , Dip Nelson G. , Morais Denis R. , Moura Caio M. , Silva Iran A. , Katz Betina , Srougi Miguel , Leite Katia R. M. , Antunes Alberto A. 
Published: November 2014

Objectives The aim of this study was to analyze the roles of miR-143 and miR-145, as well as the gene and protein expression of their targets ( KRAS, ERK5, MAP3K3, and MAP4K4) in the pathogenesis of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Methods We analyzed the specimens of 44 patients diagnosed with BPH who underwent surgical treatment. The control group consisted of prostate samples from 2 young patients who were organ donors. miRNAs and their target genes were assessed using real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and protein levels were assessed by Western blotting. Results miR-143 and miR-145 were overexpressed in, respectively, 62.5% and 73.8% of the cases. The ERK5 and MAP4K4 genes were underexpressed respectively in 59.4% and 100% of the BPH samples, whereas KRAS and MAP3K3 were overexpressed respectively in 79.4% and 61.5% of the samples. Increased protein expression was found for both KRAS (4,312.2 luminance/area) and MAP3K3 (7,461.7 luminance/area), while the ERK5 protein was more abundant in the samples from patients with prostate larger than 60 grams (p=0.019). Conclusions The overexpression of miR-143 and miR-145 in BPH samples suggests an association with the pathogenesis of the disease; additionally, the latter miRNA may act through the inhibition of MAP4K4. KRAS and MAP3K3 overexpression may also be associated with BPH pathogenesis. Further analyses are necessary to confirm these results.
Alternative Tests to Psa for Prostate Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Defilippi Elio , Zitella Andrea , Tizzani Alessandro 
Published: November 2014

Prostate specific antigen (PSA) is still the most useful tool to select the population requiring prostate biopsy. The main downsides of PSA are an inadequate sensitivity to be used in screening and a low specificity for cancer detection. So far, a limited value for PSA derivates (velocity, density, free, proisoforms and doubling time) has been recognised. We present a short review of the literature describing a selection of the most promising alternatives to PSA being studied currently: PCA3, serum kallikreins, serum detectable prostate specific membrane antigen, the nuclear matrix protein EPCA, EPCA-2, prostatic acid phosphatase, urine detectable GSTP1, anti-AMACR antibodies, sarcosine, plasminogen activating urokinase, IGFBP, TGF beta 1, PSP94, IL6, plasmatic DNA, serum autoantibodies, neuroendocrine markers, proteomic analysis.
The Endovision Technique in Renal Percutaneous Lithotripsy
Authors: Serra Simona , Corona Andrea , Caddeo Giacomo , De Lisa Antonello 
Published: November 2014

Introduction In order to achieve a safer percutaneous access to the kidney, even if not systematically, it is possible to combine the use of eco-fluoro-guided puncture with the endoscopic retrograde vision through flexible ureteroscopy Our experience has been conducted in order to standardize the technique and highlight advantages and limitations. Materials and Methods 26 patients (15 M-11 F), mean age 46 years, underwent flexible ureterorenoscopy as first percutaneous access for pyelic or pyelocaliceal stones. 20 cases were conducted in the prone and 6 in the supine position. We proceeded with the study of the caliceal topography and the choice of the calyx suitable for puncture, studying the orientation of the main axis of the papilla of the lower or middle group. Leaving the endoscopic instrument in place, we proceeded with the contrast injection and the eco-fluoro-guided puncture. The retrograde instrument followed the puncture and access dilatation. Results In 16 cases we identified a papilla of the lower caliceal group with a correct orientation for the renal puncture; in the other 10, we chose a papilla of the middle group, because it was more favorable. In 10 cases the puncture was made at the center of the papilla with its axis in favor; in 16 it was necessary to correct the puncture because the needle had penetrated the fornix (no. 14) or had punctured the other side of the calyx (no. 2). In 10 cases the puncture correction caused some bleeding, which required a careful washing in order to clear the field of vision and repeat the procedure; in other 6 cases, this was not possible: the Endovision procedure was interrupted and completed according to the conventional method. There was no difference in technique between the supine and the prone position. Discussion It is not always likely to find a papilla of lower calyx suitable to correct puncture. The Endovision technique is related to an inevitably blind moment linked to the displacement of the kidney, which is not followed by the flexible instrument, and to the limitations related to the visibility. The technique can be used both in the prone and supine position; chances are that it might not always be completed.
Herstelgerichte praktijken, berouw en vergeving in het islamitische strafrecht
Authors: Claessen Jacques 
Published: November 2014

Restorative practices, remorse and forgiveness in Islamic criminal law
Since Islam stands for a total way of life, it also includes a vision on crime and punishment. According to several (Muslim)scholars the Sharia contains not so much a message of revenge and retribution but rather one of compassion, forgiveness and mercy. Much depends on which sections of the holy sources of Islam are read and subsequently how these sections are interpreted. However, fact is that – in the context of quite a number of criminal offences – Islamic criminal law gives room for restorative practices. These practices prove to be more beneficial with regard to the realization of remorse, forgiveness and reconciliation than the regular criminal process. Since restorative practices form an intrinsic part of (pre-modern) Islamic criminal law and since more and more initiatives are being developed nowadays to incorporate such practices in (modern) Western criminal law, it is of fundamental importance to take note of Islamic criminal law. Before focusing in this contribution on the role of restorative practices, remorse and forgiveness in Islamic criminal law, first the position of victims in criminal law under influence of Islam and Christianity will be discussed on the basis of the ideas of the Dutch victimologist Jan van Dijk. Furthermore, attention will be paid to the decline of mysticism in Islam and to the possible consequences and risks thereof – also for the role of restorative practices, remorse and forgiveness in Islamic criminal law.
Low adverse event rates following voluntary medical male circumcision in a high HIV disease burden public sector prevention programme in South Africa
Authors: Phili Rogerio , Abdool‐Karim Quarraisha , Ngesa Oscar 
Published: November 2014

IntroductionThe provision of voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) services was piloted in three public sector facilities in a high HIV disease burden, low circumcision rate province in South Africa to inform policy and operational guidance for scale‐up of the service for HIV prevention. We report on adverse events (AEs) experienced by clients following the circumcision procedure.MethodsProspective recruitment of HIV‐negative males aged 12 and older volunteering to be circumcised at three select public health facilities in KwaZulu‐Natal between November 2010 and May 2011. Volunteers underwent standardized medical screening including a physical assessment prior to the surgical procedure being performed. AEs were monitored at three time intervals over a 21‐day period post‐operatively to determine safety outcomes in this pilot demonstration programme.ResultsA total of 602 volunteers participated in this study. The median age of the volunteers was 22 years (range 12–56). Most participants (75.6%) returned for the 48‐hour post‐operative visit; 51.0% for day seven visit and 26.1% for the 21st day visit. Participants aged 20–24 were most likely to return. The AE rate was 0.2% intra‐operatively. The frequency of moderate AEs was 0.7, 0.3 and 0.6% at 2‐, 7‐ and 21‐day visits, respectively. The frequency of severe AEs was 0.4, 0.3 and 0.6% at 2‐, 7‐ and 21‐day visits, respectively. Swelling and wound infection were the most common AEs with mean appearance duration of seven days. Clients aged between 35 and 56 years presented with most AEs (3.0%).ConclusionsVMMC can be delivered safely at resource‐limited settings. The intensive three‐visit post‐operative review practice may be unfeasible due to high attrition rates over time, particularly amongst older men.
Keine Auswirkungen der neuen Verlustnutzungssperre in § 2 Abs. 4 Sätze 3 ff. UmwStG auf die Ermittlung des Gewerbeertrags
Authors: Dodenhoff Jan , Hannover M. 
Published: November 2014

Abstract
Im Rahmen des Amtshilferichtlinie-Umsetzungsgesetzes hat der Gesetzgeber mit § 2 Abs. 4 Sätze 3 bis 6 UmwStG eine neue Verlustnutzungsbeschränkung eingeführt. Diese Neuregelung wirft aufgrund Ihrer Komplexität vielfältige Zweifelsfragen auf. Einer dieser Streitpunkte betrifft den sachlichen Anwendungsbereich der Vorschrift und insbesondere die Frage, inwieweit sich die Neuregelung auf die Gewerbesteuer auswirkt. Dieser Frage soll im folgenden Beitrag nachgegangen werden.
US Copyright Infringement by File “Sharing”: Statutory Damage(s)
Authors: Kuppers Martin Arthur 
Published: November 2014

Abstract
For the sake of argument, not that this is something that you would necessarily do, picture yourself living in the USA, finally getting hold that elusive song you have been wanting for so long - via an unlicensed file sharing service. Your initial feeling of euphoria would rather quickly give way to that of concern since you are now liable for at least 750 USD in ‘regular’ statutory damages for copyright infringement - were the plaintiff copyright holder to elect to recover this statutory minimum amount from you. It would most likely cross your mind that that level of recovery alone by the plaintiff is not entirely compensatory.
This article will thus seek to examine problems associated with statutory damages in US copyright law for copyright infringement by file sharing, in particular their punitive character. In order to facilitate a close and comprehensive examination of the issues involved, relevant provisions in US copyright law will be briefly highlighted. This will provide the context for an analysis and application of US Supreme Court jurisprudence relating to punitive damages, which will summarily be followed by a call to action and recommendations in this regard.