bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship of the Mistletoe Phoradendron Macrophyllum (Viscaceae) to the Wood of its Host
Authors: Calvin Clyde L. , Wilson Carol A.
Published: February 2014

The importance of direct tracheary element connections between mistletoes and their hosts is controversial. Direct connections have been reported for four genera within the Viscaceae. In the past such connections were considered essential for the movement of water and nutrients from host to parasite. In contrast, recent authors have suggested that the apoplastic continuum provided by the walls of contiguous host and parasite parenchyma cells is the main pathway for the transfer of water and nutrients, with direct connections playing at best a minor role in uptake. Our analysis of the parasite (Phoradendron)/host(Juglans) interface suggests otherwise. Parenchyma predominates at the interface for both host (71%) and parasite (95%). While direct tracheary element connections are less frequent than other types of connections, they occurred in all sinkers analyzed. Further, direct connections were much more abundant in host latewood (3.6%) than in earlywood (1.8%). This, and other evidence indicates that both pathways of transfer are important. We suggest that the apoplastic continuum provided by parasite parenchyma provides for selective uptake of nutrients, whereas direct connections provide for bulk flow between host and parasite.
Wood Anatomy of Four Myrtaceae Genera in the Subtribe Myrciinae from South America
Authors: Dias-Leme Claudia Luizon , Gasson Peter , Lughadha Eimear Nie
Published: February 2014

The wood anatomy of 31 species representing four genera of subtribe Myrciinae, Myrtaceae, Calyptranthes, Gomidesia, Marlierea and Myrcia is described. In general the wood of subtribe Myrciinae can be characterised by solitary vessels, simple perforations, alternate vestured pits, fibres with bordered and/or vestured pits (fibre-tracheids), parenchyma scanty paratracheal, diffuse and/or diffuse-in-aggregates forming complete or interrupted bands, and heterocellular rays with disjunctive cell walls. The four genera share all these features, but exhibit considerable variation in axial parenchyma patterns and crystal occurrence and distribution. No anatomical features serve to separate the genera, but some, e.g., helical thickenings and crystals, appear to be restricted to species in one genus or another.
Wood Anatomy of Trees and Shrubs from China Vii. Sapindaceae
Authors: Baizhong Li , ter Welle B. J. H. , Klaassen R. K. W. M.
Published: February 2014

The wood anatomy of 24 species belonging to 18 genera of the Sapindaceae native to China is described. Despite the wood anatomical homogeneity of the Chinese taxa of the family, it is possible to key out individual genera as long as the unknown material is confined to Chinese species. In general, the wood of Sapindaceae is characterised by diffuse-porous vessel distribution, simple perforations, alternate intervessei pits, comrnonly septate libriform fibres, usually scanty paratracheal parenchyma, mainly uniseriate rays and prismatic crystals common in chambered parenchyma and or fibres. The two taxa from temperate regions are ring-porous.
Distinguishing the Woods of Araucaria Cunninghamii (Hoop Pine) and Araucaria Bidwilli (Bunya Pine)
Authors: Ilie J.
Published: February 2014

Araucaria today is endemic to the Southern Hemisphere, with three species in Australia. Araucaria cunninghamii Ait. ex D.Don (Hoop Pine) and A. bidwilli Hook. (Bunya Pine) were cut in the past and marketed together as Colonial Pine. Today only A. cunninghamii is cut commercially, mainly from plantations established in the last few decades.
Anatomical Variation in Planted Kelempayan (Neolamarckia Cadamba, Rubiaceae)
Authors: Ismail J. , Jusoh M. Z. , Sahri Mohd. H.
Published: February 2014

Six plantation grown Kelempayan trees [Neolamarckia cadamba (Roxb.) Bosser, syn. Anthocephalus chinensis (Lamk.) A. Rich. ex Walp., Rubiaceae] were sampled along their radii and at five different height levels to evaluate variations of wood anatomical properties. Analysis of variance indicates that between tree differences in all anatomical properties measured were significant. Vessel proportion increases while ray proportion decreases with height, while both fibre diameter and fibre lumen diameter decrease with height. No significant trend was found for fibre length vertically. Cell wall substance and vessel and ray proportion increase from pith to bark, while fibre proportion decreases. Fibre length and fibre wall thickness increase from pith to bark, while fibre diameter and fibre lumen diameter first increase and then decrease. Within-tree variations are more consistent radially than vertically.
The Definition of Seasonal Growth Zones in Some African Acacia Species - A Review
Authors: Gourlay Ian D.
Published: February 2014

This paper reviews and summarizes the results of investigations at the Oxford Forestry Institute on the occurrence of seasonal growth rings in the wood of one of Africa's most widely distributed genera in the arid areas, Acacia. The ring boundaries are marked by fine marginal parenchyma containing small crystals of Ca-oxalate. Rings are usually annual and produced in the rainy season. Ring width is related to precipitation and/or minimum temperature. Rooting characteristics of the various species studied influence the type of relationship found.
The Mechanisms of Wound Response in Acacia Mangium
Authors: Schmitt Uwe , Liese Walter , Thong Hong Lay , Killmann Wulf
Published: February 2014

Branches of 8-year-old trees of Acacia mangium Willd. from a plantation in Malaysia were wounded. After response periods from 1 to 4 weeks wound-adjacent xylem was investigated by electron microscopy. Wounding induced the synthesis of dark-stained material in parenchyma cells with subsequent secretion through the pits into vessels and fibres. After four weeks many of them contained wall-attached layers of this material. Entirely filled vessels and fibres were not observed. As a second wound-associated process suberization of parenchyma cells contributes to the separation of wound-adjacent xylem tissue. Fungal degradation frequently occurred around the wound already three weeks after wounding. The effectivity of early wound responses in A. mangium appears low
A New Technique for the Demarcation Between Juvenile and Mature Wood in Cryptomeria Japonica
Authors: Hui Lee Chen , Yung Wang Song
Published: February 2014

Three average, healthy Cryptomeria trees were felled in fall 1990 from a 40-year-old plantation located in central Taiwan. The plantation was established with l- year-old cuttings at a 2 × 2 m spacing. A5 cm thick circular-shaped disk specimen was removed from each sample tree at breast height, then a 2 em wide wood strip cut along the south-north aspect of each disk specimen. The wood strip was separated further into individual growth increments in odd-numbered growth rings numbered 1 (near pith) to 33 (near bark) and forty latewood tracheids per growth ring were measured. Their mean lengths were used as items in an analysis of variance on each of eight sets of data.
Anatomy and Chemical Composition of Pinus Pinaster Bark
Authors: Nunes Elsa , Quilhó Teresa , Pereira Helena
Published: February 2014

The secondary phloem of Pinus pinaster Aiton bark has sieve cells and axial and radial parenchyma, but no fibres. Resin ducts are present in fusiform rays . Stiloid crystals, starch granules and tannins occur inside sieve and parenchyma cells. The rhytidome of P. pinaster bark has a variable number of periderms forming scale-type discontinuous layers over expanded parenchyma cells. Phellem comprises 4-6 layers of thickwaIled and little suberized cells and phelloderm a layer of 2 or 3 thickened lignified ceIls and a layer of expanded cells.
Fracture Morphology of Hickory (Carya Spp., Juglandaceae) Under Single-Blow Impact Loading
Authors: Schmitt Uwe , Georg Richter Hans , Wittke Bernd
Published: February 2014

Wood specimens of the true hickory group were tested for their shock resistance with the single blow impact method. From this test series 10 pieces with a uniform fracture mode, 'brash' and 'tough' , were selected for electron microscopy to examine the fracture mode of individual fibres in the tensile zone. 'Brash' specimens are characterized by well defined transverse or slightly oblique fracture lines across the entire cell wall, or a stepped-up course preferably within the secondary wall. Stepping-up mainly occurs along the interface between S1 and S2 layer or between primary wall and S1 layer. The smooth fracture of fibres in 'brash' specimens appears to be caused by compression-induced pre-slip planes which do not occur in 'tough' specimens. Individual fibres of 'tough' specimens mostly display a conspicuous and irregular zigzag course of the fracture line due to the tearing apart of fibrillar bundles . In addition, 'tough' specimens are characterised by the regular development of microcracks at a distance of up to several millimeters from the fracture plane. Such microcracks were not observed in 'brash' specimens. The described micro morphological differences between both fracture modes help to explain the considerable variation in shock resistance between specimens of similar density and gross wood structure.
Vessels in Eriocaulaceae
Authors: Thorsch Jennifer A. , Cheadle Vernon I.
Published: February 2014

The occurrence and level of specialization of vesse ls in 70 species representing 12 genera of Eriocaulaceae are presented. In alI species of Eriocaulaceae and in alI parts of the plant examined, vessels with simple perforations have been identified . Correlations between level of specialization of vessel members and ecological conditi ons are reported for species from diverse habitats and species with distinct differences in habit. The pattern of origin and specialization of tracheary celIs in Eriocaulaceae was compared to tracheary data for Xyridaceae , Rapateaceae, Restionaceae and Centrolepidaceae. The evolutionary position of these families has been regarded as close to Eriocaulaceae.
Woods of Eucalyptus-Part 1 Distinguishing Three Species from the Ash Group
Authors: Ilic J.
Published: February 2014

In Australia the ash group of eucalypts comprises approximately 35 species of Eucalyptus from the botanical series Obliquae. They are abundant in south-eastern Australia, but timber of commerce comes mainly from Victoria and Tasmania and includes E. regnans F. Muell., E. delegatensis R.T. Baker and E. obliqua L'Hérit. This group produces some of the fastest growing and the highest yielding hardwood species in Australia. The timbers are similar in appearance and can be interchanged for many uses, but there are some important differences. This study found differences between the species in basic density, distinctness of growth rings and pore grouping, ray width, proportion of multiseriate rays, and the height of the multi seriate proportion of the rays. Differences between mainland and Tasmanian provenances were also observed. Growth rings are prominent in E. delegatensis from the mainland, but less so from Tasmania, and least distinct in E. obliqua. Basic density can be used to distinguish E. obliqua when samples are heavier than 605 kg/ m3, and E. regnans for samples less than 390 kg/m3. Height of the multiseriate portion of the rays is 1-9, mostly 5 cells in E. obliqua, whereas it is 1-5, mostly 1-2(-4) cells high in the other two species; maximum height of the multi seriate portion of the rays is 3-12, mostly 4-8 cells in E. obliqua, 1-6, mostly 1-2 cells in E. delegatensis, and 1-8, mostly 1-3 cells in E. regnans; width of individual ray cells 10-30 µm, mostly 15-20 µm in E obliqua, and 5-16 µm, mostly 8-12 µm in the other two species. A key for separation between the species is given and the similarities to other species are discussed. Other commercially important species will be dealt with subsequently.
Bordered Pit Aspiration in the Wood of Cryptomeria Japonica in Relation to Air Permeability
Authors: Fujii Tomoyuki , Suzuki Youki , Kuroda Naohiro
Published: February 2014

Aspiration of bordered pits in Cryptomeria japonica (L. f.) D. Don was studied in relation to the air permeability in sapwood, transition zone wood, and heartwood. The percentage of aspirated pits relative to the total number of bordered pits with observable tori was determined in samples that were epoxy-embedded and thin sectioned. Air permeability of air-dried and freeze-dried wood samples was measured following the method described by Siau (1984). Pit membrane structure of air-dried and freeze-dried samples was investigated by scanning electron microscopy on split radial surfaces. It is proposed that pit aspiration progresses during heartwood formation as already reported, but the pit aspiration was frequently incomplete and the percentage varied between individuals. The pit aspiration percentage was not obviously related to the sample's initial green moisture content or heartwood color. The results from permeability measurement and SEM observation on air- and freeze-dried samples suggest that pit aspiration occurred in sapwood samples (the initial moisture content of which ranged from 200 to 300%) during air-drying and caused a significant decrease in permeability confirming the pit aspiration mechanism proposed by Hart and Thomas (1967). In the heartwood, encrustation of pit membranes prevented aspiration during air-drying.
Comparing Mechanical Properties of Secondary Wall and Cell Corner Middle Lamella in Spruce Wood
Authors: Wimmer Rupert , Lucas Barry N.
Published: February 2014

Mechanical characterizations of the S2 layers and the cell corner middle lamella in the axial direction were investigated in spruce wood, A mechanical properties microprobe capable of measuring hardness and Young's modulus on a spatially resolved basis similar to that of an electron beam microprobe was used. Hardness of the cell comer middle lamella was found to be almost as high as that of the secondary wall, but the Young's modulus of the cell corner middle lamella was 50% less than that of the S2' The S2 showed constant hardness over its range of Young's modulus, but the cell corner middle lamella exhibited a strong correlation (R2 = 0.55) between hardness and the Young's modulus. Further investigations are needed to directly combine chemical and micromechanical properties and also to investigate the mechanical effects of the high variability of cell corner middle lamella chemistry.
Wood Anatomy of Four Californian Mistletoe Species (Phoradendron, Viscaceae)
Authors: Ashworth Vanessa E.T.M. , Santos Gracielza Dos
Published: February 2014

Secondary xylem characteristics were compared in four species of Phoradendron Nutt. (Viscaceae) native to California. All have extremely short, thick-walled vessel elements with simple perforation plates. They also share high vessel density, radial vessel arrangement, thick-walled fibres, and multiseriate, heterocellular rays. The fibres show considerable intrusive growth. Features of the vessel elements (i.e. vessel dimensions, arrangement, type of wall sculpturing) and calcium oxalate crystals in the ray parenchyma cells are useful diagnostic traits to separate species. Grooved vessel walls are shared by the morphologically similar P. villosum and P. macrophyllum. Differences between these two species may reflect contrasting drought response strategies pursued by respective hosts. Vulnerability and mesomorphy ratios of the wood of P. californicum are higher than those of P. pauciflorum and P. macrophyllum. Phoradendron pauciflorum has the most xeromorphic wood of the four species studied.
Wood Anatomical Changes in Juvenile Teak due to Insect Defoliation
Authors: Priya P. B. , Bhat K. M.
Published: February 2014

Selected anatomical characteristics and wood specific gravity of 8-year old teak trees protected from insect defoliation were compared with those from an unprotected population. Trees during the protection period of four years showed considerable increase in ring width (growth rate). Although latewood width was more closely correlated with ring width than earlywood width, no significant differences were found in specific gravity, cell wall percentage and diameter and percentage of vessels, probably due to juvenility. Furthermore, no intrinsic relationship could be established between the insect defoliation and the formation of false rings.
Wood Identification -A Review
Authors: Wheeler Elisabeth A. , Baas Pieter
Published: February 2014

Wood identification is of value in a variety of contexts - commercial, forensic, archaeological and paleontological. This paper reviews the basics of wood identification, including the problems associated with different types of materials, lists commonly used microscopic and macroscopic features and recent wood anatomical atlases, discusses types ofkeys (synoptic, dichotomous, and multiple entry), and outlines some work on computer-assisted wood identification.
Comparison of Conventional Transmitted Light and Confocal Microscopy for Measuring Wood Cell Dimensions by Image Analysis
Authors: Donaldson L.A. , Lausberg M.J.F.
Published: February 2014

A comparison was made between conventional transmitted light microscopy and confocallaser scanning microscopy (CLSM) as the source of digital images for the measurement of wood cell dimensions by image analysis. When compared with confocal microscopy, transmitted light microscopy using 20 μm thick, safranin stained sections overestimated wall thickness by up to 50% and underestimated lumen area by up to 4% due to the effects of out-of-focus haze. Confocal microscopy using 20 μm thick, safranin stained sections, was found to produce more accurate images of the wood cells compared to transmitted light microscopy using thick sections. Images obtained by optical sectioning were comparable to the quality that might be obtained by thin sectioning of resin embedded wood. For example bordered pit chambers were easily resolved in single optical sections but were not resolved in transmitted light images. Confocal microscopy can be performed on sections as thick as 120 μm and by acquiring optical sections more than 5 μm below the surface of the section distortion of cells caused by sectioning can be avoided. Image quality declined with depth leading to substantial changes in cell dimensions at depths beyond 10-20 μm and significant errors in cell dimensions beyond 80 μm depth. Image brightness was also found to decline with depth, more rapidly in water than in immersion oil. A comparison of measurements of cell dimensions in water and in immersion oil indicated that wall thickness changes significantly during drying but that other dimensions remain almost the same in dry compared to wet seetions.
Internal Stress Generation in Rattan Canes
Authors: Abasolo Willie , Yoshida Masato , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Okuyama Takashi
Published: February 2014

Internal stress development was investigated in rattan canes (Calamus merrillii Becc.) following the procedures used in trees. Measurements showed that longitudinal compressive stresses existed at the periphery while longitudinal tensile stresses existed at the core. Such stresses originated from the fibers. Fiber MFA was observed to be beyond 20" and the lignin content was above 30%. Considering its similarities to compression wood tracheids, it was assumed that the rattan fibers generated longitudinal compressive stress. The amount of stress varied from base to top and from periphery to core because of the variation in the proportion of fibers along these points. This is why the longitudinal compressive stress that was generated at the base was higher than at the top and high longitudinal compressive stress was developed at the periphery. As a response to this high peripheral stress, longitudinal tensile stress was induced at the core.
Wood Anatomy of Exostyles Venusta (Swartzieae, Papilionoideae, Leguminosae)
Authors: Gasson Peter , Webley Polly
Published: February 2014

The genus Exostyles consists of two to three species from Brazil. This paper describes the wood of E. venusta Schott, completing generic coverage of the wood anatomy of the tribe Swartzieae as defined by Cowan (1981). Small twigs from herbarium sheets of E. glabra and E. amazonica (labelled E. venusta) were also examined. Exostyles wood anatomy is compared with that of the other genera in the tribes Swartzieae (Gasson 1996) and Sophoreae (Gasson 1994; Fujii et al. 1994), and is very similar to three closely related genera of Swartzieae, Zollernia, Harleyodendron and Lecointea.
Nucleated Wood Fibres in Some Members of Combretaceae
Authors: Rajput Kishore S. , Rao K. S.
Published: February 2014

The wood fibres retain their living protoplast in eleven species of five genera of the Combretaceae. Among the species studied, those of Anogeissus and Terminalia are trees while those of Calycopteris, Combretum and Quisqualis are large scandent shrubs. Living fibres with oval to oblong or fusiform shaped nuclei were found among all the species but their occurrence is more persistent in trees than in scandent species. The fibres are septate, thick-walled with narrow lumen and possess slitlike simple pits. In Combretum ovalifolium prismatic crystals frequently co-occur with the nucleus in the same compartment of the fibres. The possible significance of living fibres is discussed.
Seasonal Behaviour of Vascular Cambium in Teak (Tectona Grandis) Growing in Moist Deciduous and Dry Deciduous Forests
Authors: Rao K. S. , Rajput Kishore S.
Published: February 2014

Seasonal behaviour of vascular cambium in Tectona grandis L. f. growing in Moist Deciduous Forests (MDF) and Dry Deciduous Forests (DDF) of Gujarat State in Western India was studied for one annual cycle. In both the forests active cambial cell division and simultaneous differentiation of xylem and phloem started in June when the dormant shoot buds opened. In MDF cambial cell activity reached its peak in August-September and ceased in October; in DDF it ceased in November after reaching a peak in July-August. Maximum radial growth in trees of both forests occurred during the monsoon period. In both forests, phloem differentiation ceased before xylem differentiation. During dry months and the leafless periods the cambium remained dormant. Xylem mother cells next to the mature xylem in MDF underwent differentiation into xylem elements following the onset of periclinal divisions in March. In both forests, the seasonal anatomical changes associated with the cambium closely followed the phenology of the tree and local climatic conditions.
Electron Microscopic Investigation of the Coating Found on Torus-Bearing Pit Membranes of Botrychium Dissectum, the Common Grape Fern
Authors: Morrow Angela C. , Dute Roland R.
Published: February 2014

TEM investigation of the torus-bearing pit membranes in tracheids of Botrychium dissectum wood has revealed in some specimens a coating that covers the pit membrane and torus, and sometimes lines the lumen-side of the tracheary wall. Such coatings have been associated with wound response in dicot woods, but have not previously been reported in the wood of Botrychium. In response to wounding, rhizome sampIes incubated on water-saturated filter paper produced the coating material within 4 days. Rhizome sampIes that were incubated with an ethylene inhibitor for a maximum incubation time of 20 days did not develop the wound-response coating. Therefore, based on experimental evidence the wound response appeared to be ethylene mediated. Field sampIes which were artificially grazed by removing the leaf/spike complex exhibited a displaced wound-response coating in the rhizome. Histochemical studies indicate that the coating material has both pectin and phenolic components.
On the Occurrence of Warty Structures in Rattan
Authors: Xu Jianhua , Liese Walter
Published: February 2014

A study on cellular details of rattan sterns by the resin casting method revealed the presence of wart-like structures as apposition on the cell wall of metaxylem vessels, protoxylem tracheids, fibres and also parenchyma. They were apparent for some species, but not observed in others. Conventional SEM confirmed the presence of warts with a considerable variation in occurrence. Therefore they have only limited taxonomic significance for the rattans.
Chusquea yungasensis (Bambusoideae, Poaceae): a new species of woody bamboo from South America and the first record of subgenus Rettbergia in Bolivia
Authors: Mota Aline Costa , Pérez Iván Jiménez , Oliveira Reyjane Patrícia de , Clark Lynn
Published: February 2014

A new species of Chusquea subg. Rettbergia is described, illustrated and compared with C. bambusoides. Chusquea yungasensis sp. nov. differs from other species of subg. Rettbergia by its racemose synflorescences. The new species is endemic to Bolivia, and found only in the Yungas ecoregion. Although this subgenus is exclusive to South America, this new species represents the first record of the group in Bolivia.
Overestimation of molecular and modelling methods and underestimation of traditional taxonomy leads to real problems in assessing and handling of the world’s biodiversity
Authors: LÖBL IVAN
Published: February 2014

Since the 1992 Rio Convention on Biological Diversity, the earth’s biodiversity is a matter of constant public interest, but the community of scientists who describe and delimit species in mega-diverse animal groups, i.e. the bulk of global biodiversity, faces ever-increasing impediments. The problems are rooted in poor understanding of specificity of taxonomy, and overestimation of quantitative approaches and modern technology. A high proportion of the animal species still remains to be discovered and studied, so a more balanced approach to the situation is needed.
Use of Flexible Esophagoscopy by Otolaryngologists
Authors: Wexler Sonya J. , Wernick Brian , Soliman Ahmed M. S.
Published: February 2014

Objectives:

We used questionnaires to determine current practice patterns for esophagoscopy by otolaryngologists in the United States, with attention to foreign body management.

Methods:

A 10-item questionnaire designed to determine the prevalence of flexible esophagoscopy use among otolaryngologists, with a particular focus on foreign body removal, was created and sent via e-mail to all members of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. A second, 6-question survey to assess the level of resident training in flexible esophagoscopy was similarly created and sent to all directors of US otolaryngology residency programs.

Results:

There were a total of 160 respondents to the first survey from all geographic regions, most of whom were in group private practice. Overall, only 21.3% of the respondents were trained to perform flexible esophagoscopy during residency, whereas 43% of those who graduated after 1990 received this training. Most respondents performed flexible esophagoscopy without sedation in the office setting. The most common indications were evaluation of dysphagia, screening for complications of laryngopharyngeal reflux, and panendoscopy for head and neck cancer. Nearly 70% of the respondents were either primarily responsible for foreign body management at their institution or shared this responsibility with a gastroenterology department. Eighty-four percent used the rigid esophagoscope alone for this purpose. More than three quarters of otolaryngology residency programs currently include flexible esophagoscopy in their training, which is performed equally in the operating room and in the office; most favor rigid esophagoscopy for foreign body retrieval but use both techniques.

Conclusions:

There has been a rapid increase in the use of flexible esophagoscopy by otolaryngologists. The majority of residency programs currently include flexible esophagoscopy in their training. Otolaryngologists play a major role in esophageal foreign body management and primarily use the rigid esophagoscope for this purpose.
Bicarbonate Availability for Vocal Fold Epithelial Defense to Acidic Challenge
Authors: Durkes Abigail , Sivasankar M. Preeti
Published: February 2014

Objectives:

Bicarbonate is critical for acid-base tissue homeostasis. In this study we investigated the role of bicarbonate ion transport in vocal fold epithelial defense to acid challenges. Acidic insults to the larynx are common in gastric reflux, carcinogenesis and metastasis, and acute inflammation.

Methods:

Ion transport was measured in viable porcine vocal fold epithelium. First, 18 vocal folds were exposed to either the carbonic anhydrase antagonist acetazolamide or to vehicle. Second, 32 vocal folds were exposed to either a control buffer or a bicarbonate-free buffer on their luminal or basolateral surface or both. Third, 32 vocal folds were challenged with acid in the presence of bicarbonate-free or control buffer.

Results:

The vocal fold transepithelial resistance was greater than 300 Ω*cm2, suggesting robust barrier integrity. Ion transport did not change after exposure to acetazolamide (p > 0.05). Exposure to bicarbonate-free buffer did not compromise vocal fold ion transport (p > 0.05). Ion transport increased after acid challenge. This increase approached statistical significance and was the greatest for the control buffer and for the bicarbonate-free buffer applied to the basolateral surface.

Conclusions:

Bicarbonate secretion may contribute to vocal fold defense against acid challenge. Our data offer a potential novel role for bicarbonate as a therapeutic agent to reduce pH abnormalities in the larynx and prevent associated pathological changes.
Relapse Patterns After Transoral Laser Microsurgery and Postoperative Irradiation for Squamous Cell Carcinomas of the Tonsil and Tongue Base
Authors: Patel Samir H. , Munson Nathan D. , Grant David G. , Buskirk Steven J. , Hinni Michael L. , Perry William C. , Foote Robert L. , McNeil Rebecca B. , Halyard Michele Y.
Published: February 2014

Objectives:

We evaluated relapse patterns after transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the tonsil and tongue base and evaluated the indications for adjuvant irradiation.

Methods:

Between December 1, 1996, and December 31, 2005, 79 patients with previously untreated SCC of the tonsil or tongue base underwent TLM with or without neck dissection. Thirty-eight patients (48%) underwent postoperative irradiation (median, 62 Gy) to the primary site and the neck. Analysis of relapse patterns was performed on the basis of adverse risk factors and the presence or absence of adjuvant irradiation.

Results:

The median follow-up for living patients was 47 months (range, 10 to 107 months), and patients were monitored for at least 2 years or until recurrence or death. Local, regional, and distant treatment failures numbered 4, 6, and 4 for surgery alone (n = 41) and 0, 2, and 6 for adjuvant irradiation (n = 38), respectively. Patients with high-risk features (extracapsular extension or at least 2 adverse factors) had locoregional control rates at 2 or more years of 66% and 94% for TLM alone and TLM plus adjuvant irradiation, respectively.

Conclusions:

Adjuvant irradiation after TLM resection of oropharyngeal SCC with intermediate- or high-risk features improves locoregional control compared with TLM alone.
Comparison of Survival Rates Between Papillary and Follicular Thyroid Carcinomas Among 36,725 Patients
Authors: Oyer Sam L. , Fritsch Valerie A. , Lentsch Eric J.
Published: February 2014

Objectives:

We sought to determine the impact of histologic subtype on disease-specific survival (DSS) in cases of differentiated thyroid carcinoma.

Methods:

Adult patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) or follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Database for the years 1988 to 2003. The patients were grouped according to tumor type (PTC or FTC), and their age, gender, tumor size and extension, and nodal or distant metastases were recorded. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to compare DSS rates on the basis of histologic subtype.

Results:

We identified 36,725 patients, of whom 77% were female and 23% were male; PTC was diagnosed in 91% of patients, and FTC in the remaining 9%. Patients with PTC were younger, were more likely to be female, and had smaller tumors with higher rates of regional metastases but fewer distant metastases than FTC patients (p < 0.0001 for all). When the cases were stratified by stage, FTC patients had a worse DSS than did PTC patients for all stages — except for stages III/IVA and IVC among patients more than 45 years of age.

Conclusions:

Follicular thyroid carcinoma portends a worse DSS than does PTC, even when the cases are controlled for stage. Consideration should be given to individual staging for these subtypes of differentiated thyroid carcinoma.
Stem Cell–Derived Tissue–Engineered Constructs for Hemilaryngeal Reconstruction
Authors: Halum Stacey L. , Bijangi-Vishehsaraei Khadijeh , Zhang Hongji , Sowinski John , Bottino Marco C.
Published: February 2014

Objectives:

As an initial step toward our goal of developing a completely tissue-engineered larynx, the aim of this study was to describe and compare three strategies of creating tissue-engineered muscle-polymer constructs for hemilaryngeal reconstruction.

Methods:

Cartilage-mimicking polymer was developed from electrospun poly(D,L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) (PCL). Primary muscle progenitor cell cultures were derived from syngeneic F344 rat skeletal muscle biopsies. Twenty F344 rats underwent resection of the outer hemilaryngeal cartilage with the underlying laryngeal adductor muscle. The defects were repaired with muscle stem cell–derived muscle–PCL constructs (5 animals), myotube-derived muscle–PCL constructs (5 animals), motor end plate–expressing muscle–PCL constructs (5 animals), or PCL alone (controls; 5 animals). The outcome measures at 1 month included animal survival, muscle thickness, and innervation status as determined by electromyography and immunohistochemistry.

Results:

All of the animals survived the 1-month implant period and had appropriate weight gain. The group that received motor end plate–expressing muscle–PCL constructs demonstrated the greatest muscle thickness and the strongest innervation, according to electromyographic activity and the percentage of motor end plates that had nerve contact.

Conclusions:

Although all of the tissue-engineered constructs provided effective reconstruction, those that expressed motor end plates before implantation yielded muscle that was more strongly innervated and viable. This finding suggests that this novel approach may be useful in the development of a tissue-engineered laryngeal replacement.
Ovine Model for Auricular Reconstruction
Authors: Hohman Marc H. , Lindsay Robin W. , Pomerantseva Irina , Bichara David A. , Zhao Xing , Johnson Matthew , Kulig Katherine M. , Sundback Cathryn A. , Randolph Mark A. , Vacanti Joseph P. , Cheney Mack L. , Hadlock Theresa A.
Published: February 2014

Objectives:

We developed a large animal model for auricular reconstruction with engineered cartilage frameworks and evaluated the performance of porous polyethylene auricular implants in this model.

Methods:

Eighteen high-density porous polyethylene auricular frameworks were implanted subcutaneously in the infra-auricular areas of 9 sheep. The implants were harvested 17 weeks later for gross and histologic examination. The perioperative and postoperative courses were carefully documented.

Results:

Five implants became exposed, and 2 implants needed to be removed at 7 weeks. Additionally, 1 infected implant was removed at 2 weeks. Seromas developed in 2 implants because of drain failures and were drained successfully during the first postoperative week. There were no other surgical site complications. The remaining 10 implants had an acceptable cosmetic appearance at 17 weeks.

Conclusions:

The perioperative complication rate in the ovine porous polyethylene auricular implant model was higher than that reported for auricular reconstructions in humans. The implant exposures were likely caused by ischemia and excessive stress on the thin overlying skin, because vascularized flap coverage was not used. The histologic findings were comparable to the results reported for other animal models. This large animal model is appropriate for auricular reconstruction experiments, including engineered constructs.
Dentin Biomodification Potential Depends on Polyphenol Source
Authors: Aguiar T.R. , Vidal C.M.P. , Phansalkar R.S. , Todorova I. , Napolitano J.G. , McAlpine J.B. , Chen S.N. , Pauli G.F. , Bedran-Russo A.K.
Published: February 2014

Although proanthocyanidins (PACs) modify dentin, the effectiveness of different PAC sources and the correlation with their specific chemical composition are still unknown. This study describes the chemical profiling of natural PAC-rich extracts from 7 plants using ultra high pressure/performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) to determine the overall composition of these extracts and, in parallel, comprehensively evaluate their effect on dentin properties. The total polyphenol content of the extracts was determined (as gallic acid equivalents) using Folin-Ciocalteau assays. Dentin biomodification was assessed by the modulus of elasticity, mass change, and resistance to enzymatic biodegradation. Extracts with a high polyphenol and PAC content from Vitis vinifera, Theobroma cacao, Camellia sinensis, and Pinus massoniana induced a significant increase in modulus of elasticity and mass. The UHPLC analysis showed the presence of multiple types of polyphenols, ranging from simple phenolic acids to oligomeric PACs and highly condensed tannins. Protective effect against enzymatic degradation was observed for all experimental groups; however, statistically significant differences were observed between plant extracts. The findings provide clear evidence that the dentin bioactivities of PACs are source dependent, resulting from a combination of concentration and specific chemical constitution of the complex PAC mixtures.
The Interplay between Child and Maternal Health
Authors: Garbarski Dana
Published: February 2014

While many studies use parental socioeconomic status and health to predict children’s health, this study examines the interplay over time between child and maternal health across childhood and adolescence. Using data from women in the National Longitudinal Study of Youth 1979 cohort and their children ( N = 2,225), autoregressive cross-lagged models demonstrate a reciprocal relationship between child activity limitations and maternal health limitations in direct effects of child activity limitations on maternal health limitations two years later and vice versa—net of a range of health-relevant time-varying and time-invariant covariates. Furthermore, there are indirect effects of child activity limitations on subsequent maternal health limitations and indirect effects of maternal health limitations on subsequent child activity limitations via intervening health statuses. This study examines how the interplay between child and maternal health unfolds over time and describes how these interdependent statuses jointly experience health disadvantages.
Intimate Partner Violence and Depressive Symptoms during Adolescence and Young Adulthood
Authors: Johnson Wendi L. , Giordano Peggy C. , Longmore Monica A. , Manning Wendy D.
Published: February 2014

Using longitudinal data from the Toledo Adolescent Relationships Study, we examine the relationship between intimate partner violence (IPV) and depressive symptoms during adolescence and young adulthood (N = 1,273) while controlling for time-stable and time-varying correlates. Results show temporal changes in depressive symptoms, such that increases in depressive symptoms correspond to IPV exposure. While prior work has theorized that certain populations may be at increased psychological vulnerability from IPV, results indicate that both perpetration and victimization are associated with increases in depressive symptoms for both men and women, and irrespective of whether IPV exposure occurred in adolescence or young adulthood. Cumulative exposure to IPV does not appear to increase depressive symptoms beyond the effect observed for the most recent IPV exposure, but physical maltreatment by a parent does appear to diminish the association between IPV perpetration and depressive symptoms for a small subset of the sample.
Expectations, preferences and satisfaction levels among new and long-term residents in a gentrifying Toronto neighbourhood
Authors: McGirr Emily , Skaburskis Andrejs , Donegani Tim Spence
Published: February 2014

This study shows the remarkable similarity in the interests, motivations, perceptions and satisfaction levels of the long-term residents and the more recent arrivals in a gentrifying Toronto neighbourhood. The survey shows that long-term residents, mostly homeowners, welcome the changes and express their strong satisfaction with their neighbourhood and community. Gentrification did not create a large disparity between the established residents and newcomers and both groups appear to be motivated by similar interests. Both the new arrivals and the long-term residents are renovating and upgrading the neighbourhood. The findings depict gentrification – where sitting tenants are protected by rent controls – as a conflict free process welcomed by long-term residents. However, the ease of this neighbourhood’s transition makes it potentially more problematic as the indirect consequences of the reduction in the low priced housing stock are not apparent to the public and, therefore, less likely to be seen as a problem needing redress.
Family Functioning and Stress in African American Families
Authors: Pollock Elizabeth Davenport , Kazman Josh B. , Deuster Patricia
Published: February 2014

Having social support substantially reduces the effects of stressful experiences. Family relationships are central components of social support for African Americans. In a community-based sample of African Americans ( n = 255), the relationship between family functioning and stress was examined, as well as possible mediators of this relationship, independent of demographic variables. Using multiple regression analysis, close and flexible family relationships were linked to lower perceived stress levels. The association of family functioning and stress operated through the internal processes of anxiety, depression, daily hassles, and higher hardiness and explained more than half of the variance in stress levels. These findings also remained above and beyond the known stressor of discrimination and the known stress reducer of spirituality. These findings suggest that expanding traditional stress management programs to include strategies for bolstering family functioning could have significant benefits.
Final quality prediction for multi-phase batch process based on phase cumulative product quality model
Authors: Tang Xiaochu , Li Yuan , Guo Jinyu , Xie Zhi
Published: February 2014

A novel online final product quality prediction scheme is proposed in this paper for the improvement of quality prediction in multi-phase batch processes. Phase cumulative product quality (PCPQ), which is quality cumulated from the beginning of the phase to the end, is introduced for quality prediction, and final product quality prediction offline is achieved by cumulating all the predicted PCPQ based on the corresponding PCPQ model. In this way, the quality prediction approach proposed not only explores the different effects of process variables in different phases on final product quality, but also takes the common effects of process variables in different phases into account. The PCPQ model and remained phase cumulative product quality (RPCPQ) model are combined to improve online prediction precision, without the missing observations estimation. The proposed approach is applied to a simulated penicillin fermentation process and the results of simulation demonstrate effectiveness and superiority.
New results on stability analysis of delayed recurrent neural networks based on the integral quadratic constraints approach
Authors: Zheng Min , Li Kang
Published: February 2014

This paper is concerned with the analysis of the stability of delayed recurrent neural networks. In contrast to the widely used Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional approach, a new method is developed within the integral quadratic constraints framework. To achieve this, several lemmas are first given to propose integral quadratic separators to characterize the original delayed neural network. With these, the network is then reformulated as a special form of feedback-interconnected system by choosing proper integral quadratic constraints. Finally, new stability criteria are established based on the proposed approach. Numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the new approach.
Practice through partnership: Examining the theoretical framework and development of a “community of musical practice”
Authors: Kenny Ailbhe
Published: February 2014

This article examines the development of a “community of musical practice” (CoMP) which emerged within a research case study in Limerick, Ireland. The case study was a music education partnership between a third level institution, a resource agency and a primary school. Using a “community of practice” (CoP) theoretical framework to underpin the study and data analysis, the research seeks to “unpack,” problematize and interpret the development of a community of musical practice, as well as the complexities that surround issues such as membership and role within partnership initiatives. The study provides a means of exploring musical practices within a socio-cultural process where learning is “situated” and “shared,” in this case within a community of musical practice. The inter-relatedness of musical and social interaction as well as favorable models of meaningful musical and “community” experience are highlighted.
“I need numbers before I will buy it”
Authors: Braithwaite Dawn O. , Moore Julia , Abetz Jenna Stephenson
Published: February 2014

The authors highlight important contributions of qualitative research for the study of close relationships, arguing for greater representation of this scholarship in the journals. Four challenges experienced by interpretive researchers trying to publish in Journal of Social and Personal Relationships and close relationship journals are discussed.
Service users’ views of the assessment process in stroke rehabilitation
Authors: Tyson Sarah F , Burton Louisa-Jane , McGovern Alison , Sharifi Sudi
Published: February 2014

Objective:

To investigate the service users’ (stroke survivors and care-givers) experiences and views of the rehabilitation assessment process.

Design:

Qualitative data analysis from three focus groups using a content analysis to identify the major themes.

Setting:

Participants were recruited from stroke support groups and community rehabilitation services in a large UK city.

Subjects:

Seventeen community-dwelling stroke survivors who had completed their rehabilitation within the previous year and six care-givers.

Results:

Five themes emerged: understanding the purpose of the assessment; repetition of assessments; feedback about assessments and progress; format of feedback and barriers to feedback. While all participants reported undergoing assessment, some felt their purpose was not always explained and resented unexplained repetitions of tests. Some participants reported a positive experience, but most wanted more information about their progress and predictions of recovery. They wanted regular, consistent, objective information presented in layman’s terms; verbally and in writing. Some carers reported difficulty accessing information particularly as a result of confidentiality policies. While some participants accepted these short-comings, others considered them due to staff’s disinterest or ineptitude, which undermined their trust in the team.

Conclusions:

Stroke service users require clear information about the purpose of assessments and regular, consistent, objective feedback about their progress using layman’s language both verbally and in writing.