bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Covalent incorporation and controlled release of active dexamethasone from injectable polyethylene glycol hydrogels
Authors: Bezuidenhout Deon , Oosthuysen Anel , Davies Neil , Ahrenstedt Lage , Dobner Stephan , Roberts Peter , Zilla Peter
Published: October 2012

Dexamethasone (Dex) is used in a wide range of applications, but may have undesirable systemic side effects. A number of techniques have thus been developed to deliver the substance locally. In this study, dexamethasone was acrylated, pegylated, and tethered to hydrolytically degradable (acrylate based) and nondegradable (vinyl sulfone based) polyethylene glycol hydrogels by nucleophilic addition. Hydrogel swelling, drug elution and drug activity were followed over an extended period in vitro. Nondegradable gels were stable for more than a year, while degradable gels showed increasing swelling ratios due to degradation that resulted in disintegration after ∼12 days. Near‐linear (zero order) release could be achieved in some cases with the degradable gels, while release from the nondegradable gels approximated first order initial release kinetics. Significantly delayed release was observed in all cases where the Dex was linked to the gels, when compared with controls where the drug was merely physically incorporated. Eluates from the gels containing the tethered drug showed high levels of activity for extended time periods, while the activity of the eluates from gels containing nonbound dexamethasone decreased rapidly within the first few days. Dexamethasone can thus be incorporated using nucleophilic addition chemistry to produce gels that are capable of sustained release of the active drug. The methodology is applicable to a variety of drugs that contain hydroxyl groups. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2013.
Sustained, localized transgene expression mediated from lentivirus‐loaded biodegradable polyester elastomers
Authors: Jen Michele C. , Baler Kevin , Hood Ashleigh R. , Shin Seungjin , Shea Lonnie D. , Ameer Guillermo A.
Published: October 2012

The study of biomaterials for gene delivery in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine is a growing area, necessitating the investigation of new biomaterials and gene delivery vectors. Poly(1,8‐octanediol citrate) (POC) and poly(glycerol‐sebacate) (PGS) are biodegradable, biocompatible elastomers that have tunable mechanical properties, surface characteristics, and degradation rate. The objective of this work was to investigate whether POC and PGS would support the immobilization and release of lentivirus to allow sustained and localized transgene expression. Porous biomaterials were prepared using salt as a porogen, andin vitroandin vivotransgene expression from immobilized and released lentiviruses were assessed. Cells seeded onto biomaterials loaded with lentiviruses yielded titer‐dependent transgene expressionin vitro. Lentivirus activity on both biomaterials was maintained for at least 5 days. When implanted subcutaneously in rats, POC and PGS with immobilized lentivirus exhibited sustained and localized transgene expression for at least 5 weeks. This research demonstrates that lentivirus immobilization on POC and PGS is feasible and potentially useful for a variety of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2013.
Degradation of 1‐amino‐4‐bromoanthraquinone‐2‐sulfonic acid using combined airlift bioreactor and TiO2‐photocatalytic ozonation
Authors: Wang Jing , Liu Guangfei , Lu Hong , Jin Ruofei , Zhou Jiti
Published: October 2012

BACKGROUND: Traditional treatment systems failed to achieve efficient degradation of anthraquinone dye intermediates at high loading. Thus, an airlift internal loop reactor (AILR) in combination with the TiO2‐photocatalytic ozonation (TiO2/UV/O3) process was investigated for the degradaton of 1‐amino‐ 4‐bromoanthraquinone‐2‐ sulfonic acid (ABAS).

RESULTS: The AILR using Sphingomonas xenophaga as inoculum and granular activated carbon (GAC) as biocarrier, could run steadily for 4 months at 1000 mg L−1 of the influent ABAS. The efficiencies of ABAS decolorization and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal in AILR reached about 90% and 50% in 12 h, respectively. However, when the influent ABAS concentration was further increased, a yellow intermediate with maximum absorbance at 447 nm appeared in AILR, resulting in the decrease of the decolorization and COD removal efficiencies. Advanced treatment of AILR effluent indicated that TiO2/UV/O3 process more significantly improved the mineralization rate of ABAS bio‐decolorization products with over 90% TOC removal efficiency, compared with O3, TiO2/UV and UV/O3 processes. Furthermore, the release efficiencies of Br− and SO42− could reach 84.5% and 80.2% during TiO2/UV/O3 treatment, respectively, when 91.5% TOC removal was achieved in 2 h.

CONCLUSION: The combination of AILR and TiO2/UV/O3 was an economic and efficient system for the treatment of ABAS wastewater. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Biogenic synthesis, characterization, toxicity and photocatalysis of zinc sulfide nanoparticles using rhamnolipids from Pseudomonas aeruginosaBS01 as capping and stabilizing agent
Authors: Hazra Chinmay , Kundu Debasree , Chaudhari Ambalal , Jana Tushar
Published: October 2012

Background

This paper reports a facile eco‐friendly route for biosynthesis of rhamnolipid biosurfactant capped zinc sulphide (ZnS) nanoparticles (NPs), its structural characterization, biocompatibility, cytotoxicity assessment and its applicability as a nanophotocatalyst for textile azo dye degradation.

Results

Homogeneous, water soluble, stable and polydisperse 10–15 nm sized ZnS NPs were synthesized with rhamnolipid biosurfactant that served the dual role of capping and stabilizing agent. The as‐prepared ZnS NPs retained photoluminescence intensity and showed an obvious blue shift compared with normal ZnS crystallites of micrometer scale. XRD analysis confirmed crystallinity and SEM and TEM images revealed spherical particles. Unchanged cell viability of adult rat (Rattus norvegicus) hepatocytes for biosurfactant capped ZnS were observed while conventional ZnS NPs showed dose and time‐dependent cytotoxicity. Specifically, rhamnolipid capping induced less oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation and perturbation in total glutathione (GSH). Maximum Direct brown MR dye degradation of 96 and 94% was obtained under UV irradiation for 180 min using SDS and biosurfactant capped ZnS NPs, respectively, at pH 11.0 and 25°C.

Conclusion

The results elucidated the significance of biocompatible and biodegradable rhamnolipids as an effective and inexpensive capping and stabilizing agent for developing stable and biocompatible ZnS NPs as nanophotocatalyst in the textile industry and for wastewater and effluents treatment.
Magnesium ammonium phosphate formation, recovery and its application as valuable resources: a review
Authors: Liu YingHao , Kumar Sanjay , Kwag Jung‐Hoon , Ra ChangSix
Published: October 2012

To address the issues of wastewater treatment and depleting phosphorus (P) resources, the present review focuses on the very wide interest in P recovery from wastewater, with scientific research underway in countries across the globe. The study describes the growing concern for diminishing P resources and then the chemical principle of magnesium ammonium phosphate (MAP) precipitation, factors influencing MAP crystallization, and various developments achieved through bench, pilot and full scale MAP reactors. A brief description is given of MAP purification and dissolution to economically exploit MAP as a phosphate and magnesium source. Experience in re‐use of recovered MAP as a sustainable agriculture fertilizer is discussed including pot and field trials. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Bacterial cellulose–carbon nanotube composite as a biocompatible electrode for the direct electron transfer of glucose oxidase
Authors: Kim Young‐Hoo , Park Saerom , Won Keehoon , Kim Hyung Joo , Lee Sang Hyun
Published: October 2012

Background

Bacterial cellulose (BC)‐based materials have many potential applications in the biomedical field because of their inherent biocompatibility. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been used as electrode materials owing to their high electrical conductivity. In this study, BC‐CNT composite electrodes were prepared simply by directly filtering CNTs through BC hydrogel and vacuum drying the BC hydrogel containing the CNTs. Glucose oxidase (GOx) was immobilized on BC‐CNT composite electrodes.

Results

Cyclic voltammograms revealed that the BC‐CNT‐GOx electrodes had a pair of well‐defined peaks. The formal redox potential peak was –496 mV (vs. Ag/AgCl), which agreed well with that of FAD/FADH2. This result clearly indicates that direct electron transfer occurred between GOx and the BC‐CNT composite electrode. In addition, the GOx immobilized on the electrode retained its catalytic ability to oxidize glucose.

Conclusion

Conductive BC‐CNT composite films form a good biocompatible electrode for the direct electron transfer of glucose oxidase. They have many potential applications in the biomedical field such as biosensors, biofuel cells, and bioelectronic devices. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Practical non‐chromatography strategies for the potential separation of PEGylated RNase A conjugates
Authors: Galindo‐López Miriam , Rito‐Palomares Marco
Published: October 2012

BACKGROUND

The implementation of efficient processes for the development, recovery and purification of biological products is a main challenge for the bioengineering field. PEGylation can enhance the therapeutic properties of the protein, and often results in heterogeneous population of conjugated species and unmodified protein that presents a protein separations challenge. Non‐chromatography strategies, such as countercurrent distribution in aqueous two‐phase systems (CCD‐ATPS) and ultrafiltration (UF) for the fractionation of PEGylated RNase A conjugates represent attractive alternative worth of consideration.

RESULTS

In this work the potential application of CCD‐ATPS for the separation of closely related proteins (i.e. mono‐PEGylated and di‐PEGylated RNase A) was performed under selected conditions. Process conditions involved PEG 8000 13% (w/w), phosphate 10.4% (w/w), at pH 7.0 and volume ratio of 1.0 resulted, after 30 transfers in CCD, in distinguishable peaks that can be attributed to the mono‐PEGylated protein (61%) and di‐PEGylated (58%) form of RNase A. Alternatively, an ultrafiltration‐based strategy resulted in the partial separation of mono‐PEGylated and di‐PEGylated protein, 38% and 60%, respectively, in the concentrate with a 30 kDa membrane. Using a 50 kDa membrane the mono‐PEGylated RNase A accumulates in the filtrate (43%) and the di‐PEGylated in the concentrate (45%).

CONCLUSIONS

The results reported here can be considered for the separation of PEGylated proteins, as a first step in the implementation of a purification process. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparing the long‐term effect of high P/COD influent on enhancement of phosphate‐accumulating organisms between acetate‐ and propionate‐fed reactors
Authors: Hsu Chih‐Hsun , Chang Wei‐Chin , Chen Jian‐Jyun , Wu Jhong‐Syun
Published: October 2012

Background

High P/COD loading has been extensively applied to obtain a highly enriched culture of phosphate‐accumulating organisms (PAOs) in an anaerobic‐oxic (A/O) system. However, phosphorus rich influent was also observed to deteriorate the phosphorus metabolism. This study therefore operated acetate‐ and propionate‐fed A/O reactors to examine the long‐term effect of high P/COD loading on the enhancement of PAOs in both reactors.

Results

Long‐term cultivating with 40/400 mg P (mg COD)‐1 influent suppressed the proliferation of PAOs in the acetate‐fed reactor, and more importantly provided glycogen‐accumulating organisms (GAOs) with a selective advantage over PAOs. GAOs eventually dominate the A/O system even when the influent phosphorus was reduced back to 15 mg L‐1. Conversely, PAOs was encouraged, and then stably sustained in the propionate‐fed reactor with the same phosphorus influent (40/400 mg P (mg COD)‐1). Obviously, acquiring a stable PAOs‐enriched system via high phosphorus loading relied considerably on the choice of carbon source.

Conclusions

Propionate was more beneficial than acetate for supporting PAOs to suffer a high phosphorus loading in an enhanced biological phosphorus removal system. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of immobilization protocol on optimal conditions of ethyl butyrate synthesis catalyzed by lipase B from Candida antarctica
Authors: Friedrich John L. R. , Peña Fernanda P. , Garcia‐Galan Cristina , Fernandez‐Lafuente Roberto , Ayub Marco A. Z. , Rodrigues Rafael C.
Published: October 2012

Background

In this work two immobilized preparations of lipase (EC 3.1.1.3) B from Candida antarctica (CALB) were compared as biocatalysts in the synthesis of ethyl butyrate, a short‐chain esters with fruity notes. Commercial Novozym 435 and CALB immobilized on styrene‐divinylbenzene beads (MCI‐CALB) were tested for esterification reactions. Central composite design and response surface methodology were used to optimize the reaction temperature, substrate molar ratio, enzyme content, and the added water.

Results

The two enzymatic preparations presented different optimal conditions concerning ethyl butyrate production, with higher yields of conversion around 85% in 1.5 h being achieved. However, MCI‐CALB presented productivities 1.6 times higher than Novozym 435. The main difference between the biocatalysts was in relation to operational stability during batch reuse experiments, in which MCI‐CALB retained 80% of its initial activity after eight batches, while Novozym 435 retained only 20% under the same conditions.

Conclusion

It was verified that variations in the protocols for enzyme immobilization causes different optimal conditions for the esterification reaction. These are very interesting results because reaction times were short, producing high conversion yields and productivities considering the mass of biocatalyst used. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Humeral epiphyseal shape in the felidae: The influence of phylogeny, allometry, and locomotion
Authors: Walmsley Anthony , Elton Sarah , Louys Julien , Bishop Laura C. , Meloro Carlo
Published: October 2012

Bone morphology of the cats (Mammalia: Felidae) is influenced by many factors, including locomotor mode, body size, hunting methods, prey size and phylogeny. Here, we investigate the shape of the proximal and distal humeral epiphyses in extant species of the felids, based on two‐dimensional landmark configurations. Geometric morphometric techniques were used to describe shape differences in the context of phylogeny, allometry and locomotion. The influence of these factors on epiphyseal shape was assessed using Principal Component Analysis, Linear Discriminant functions and multivariate regression. Phylogenetic Generalised Least Squares was used to examine the association between size or locomotion and humeral epiphyseal shape, after taking a phylogenetic error term into account. Results show marked differences in epiphyseal shape between felid lineages, with a relatively large phylogenetic influence. Additionally, the adaptive influences of size and locomotion are demonstrated, and their influence is independent of phylogeny in most, but not all, cases. Several features of epiphyseal shape are common to the largest terrestrial felids, including a relative reduction in the surface area of the humeral head and increased robusticity of structures that provide attachment for joint‐stabilising muscles, including the medial epicondyle and the greater and lesser tubercles. This increased robusticity is a functional response to the increased loading forces placed on the joints due to large body mass. J. Morphol., 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Skeletal ontogeny in basal scleractinian micrabaciid corals
Authors: Janiszewska Katarzyna , Jaroszewicz Jakub , Stolarski Jarosław
Published: October 2012

The skeletal ontogeny of the Micrabaciidae, one of two modern basal scleractinian lineages, is herein reconstructed based on serial micro‐computed tomography sections and scanning electron micrographs. Similar to other scleractinians, skeletal growth of micrabaciids starts from the simultaneous formation of six primary septa. New septa of consecutive cycles arise between septa of the preceding cycles from unique wedge‐shaped invaginations of the wall. The invagination of wall and formation of septa are accompanied by development of costae alternating in position with septa. During corallite growth, deepening invagination of the wall results in elevation of septa above the level of a horizontal base. The corallite wall is regularly perforated thus invaginated regions consist of pillars inclined downwardly and outwardly from the lower septal margins. Shortly after formation of septa (S2 and higher cycles) their upper margins bend and fuse with the neighboring members of a previous cycle, resulting in a unique septal pattern, formerly misinterpreted as “septal bifurcation.” Septa as in other Scleractinia are hexamerally arranged in cycles. However, starting from the quaternaries, septa within single cycles do not appear simultaneously but are inserted in pairs and successively flank the members of a preceding cycle, invariably starting from those in the outermost parts of the septal system. In each pair, the septum adjacent to older septa arises first (e.g., the quinaries between S2 and S4 before quinaries between S3 and S4). Unique features of micrabaciid skeletal ontogeny are congruent with their basal position in scleractinian phylogeny, which was previously supported by microstructural and molecular data. J. Morphol., 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthetic hydrogel scaffold is an effective vehicle for delivery of INFUSE (rhBMP2) to critical‐sized calvaria bone defects in rats
Authors: Mariner Peter D. , Wudel Justin M. , Miller David E. , Genova E. Erin , Streubel Sven‐Olrik , Anseth Kristi S.
Published: October 2012

Medtronic's INFUSE Bone Graft provides surgeons with a potent tool for stimulating bone formation. Current delivery vehicles that rely on Absorbable Collagen Sponges (ACS) require excessive quantities of the active ingredient in INFUSE, recombinant human Bone Morphogenic Protein‐2 (rhBMP2), to achieve physiologically relevant concentrations of the growth factor, driving up the cost of the product and increasing the likelihood of undesirable side effects in neighboring tissues. We demonstrate that a simple light‐mediated, thiol‐ene chemistry can be used to create an effective polymer delivery vehicle for rhBMP2, eliminating the use of xenographic materials and reducing the dose of rhBMP2 required to achieve therapeutic effects. Comprised entirely of synthetic components, this system entraps rhBMP2 within a biocompatible hydrogel scaffold that is degraded by naturally occurring remodeling enzymes, clearing the way for new tissue formation. When tested side‐by‐side with ACS in a critical‐sized bone defect model in rats, this polymeric delivery system significantly increased bone formation over ACS controls. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31: 401–406, 2013
Large‐area Ag nanorod array substrates for SERS: AAO template‐assisted fabrication, functionalization, and application in detection PCBs
Authors: Huang Zhulin , Meng Guowen , Huang Qing , Chen Bin , Zhu Chuhong , Zhang Zhuo
Published: October 2012

Highly ordered arrays of thiolated β‐cyclodextrin (HS‐β‐CD) functionalized Ag‐nanorods (Ag‐NRs) with plasmonic antennae enhancement of electrical field have been achieved for encapsulation and rapid detection of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The large‐area ordered arrays of rigid Ag‐NRs supported on copper base were fabricated via porous anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template‐assisted electrochemical deposition. The inter‐nanorod gaps between the neighboring Ag‐NRs were tuned to sub‐10 nm by thinning the pore‐wall thickness of the AAO template using diluted H3PO4. The nearly perfect large‐area ordered arrays of Ag‐NRs supported on copper base render these systems excellent in surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) performance with uniform electric field enhancement, as testified by the SERS spectra and Raman mappings of rhodamine 6 G. Furthermore, the Ag‐NRs were functionalized with HS‐β‐CD molecules so as to capture the apolar PCB molecules in the hydrophobic cavity of the CD. Compared to the ordinary undecorated SERS substrates, the HS‐β‐CD modified Ag‐NR arrays exhibit better capture ability and higher sensitivity in rapid detection of PCBs. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects on DPPH inhibition of egg‐white protein polypeptides treated by pulsed electric field technology
Authors: Wang Ke , Wang Jia , Liu Bolong , Lin Songyi , Zhao Ping , Liu Jingbo , Jones Gregory , Huang Hsiang‐Chi
Published: October 2012

BACKGROUND

Egg‐white protein polypeptides are potentially used as a functional ingredient in food products. In this study, the effects on DPPH inhibition of egg‐white protein polypeptides ranging from 10 to 30 kDa treated by pulsed electric field (PEF) technology were investigated.

RESULTS

2, 2‐Diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) inhibition (%) was used to evaluate the antioxidant activity of polypeptides. In order to develop and optimize a pulsed electric field (PEF) mathematical model for improving the antioxidant activity, we have investigated three variables, including concentration (6, 8 and 10 mg mL−1), electric field intensity (10, 20 and 30 kV cm−1) and pulse frequency (2000, 2350 and 2700 Hz) and subsequently optimized them by response surface methodology (RSM). The concentration (8 mg mL−1), electric field intensity (10 kV cm−1) and pulse frequency (2000 Hz) were found to be the optimal conditions under which the DPPH inhibition increased 28.44%, compared to the sample without PEF treatment. Both near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIR) and mid‐infrared spectroscopy (MIR) were used to analyze the change of functional groups © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that PEF technology could improve the antioxidant activity of antioxidant polypeptides from egg‐white protein under the optimized conditions.
The kinetics of thermal generation of flavour
Authors: Parker Jane K
Published: October 2012

Control and optimisation of flavour is the ultimate challenge for the food and flavour industry. The major route to flavour formation during thermal processing is the Maillard reaction, which is a complex cascade of interdependent reactions initiated by the reaction between a reducing sugar and an amino compound. The complexity of the reaction means that researchers turn to kinetic modelling in order to understand the control points of the reaction and to manipulate the flavour profile. Studies of the kinetics of flavour formation have developed over the past 30 years from single‐ response empirical models of binary aqueous systems to sophisticated multi‐response models in food matrices, based on the underlying chemistry, with the power to predict the formation of some key aroma compounds. This paper discusses in detail the development of kinetic models of thermal generation of flavour and looks at the challenges involved in predicting flavour. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Broken rice kernels and the kinetics of rice hydration and texture during cooking
Authors: Saleh Mohammed , Meullenet Jean‐Francois
Published: October 2012

Background

During rice milling and processing, broken kernels are inevitably present, although to date it has been unclear as to how the presence of broken kernels affects rice hydration and cooked rice texture. Therefore, this work intended to study the effect of broken kernels in a rice sample on rice hydration and texture during cooking. Two medium‐grain and two long‐grain rice cultivars were harvested, dried and milled, and the broken kernels were separated from unbroken kernels. Broken rice kernels were subsequently combined with unbroken rice kernels forming treatments of 0, 40, 150, 350 or 1000 g kg−1 broken kernels ratio. Rice samples were then cooked and the moisture content of the cooked rice, the moisture uptake rate, and rice hardness and stickiness were measured.

Results

As the amount of broken rice kernels increased, rice sample texture became increasingly softer (P < 0.05) but the unbroken kernels became significantly harder. Moisture content and moisture uptake rate were positively correlated, and cooked rice hardness was negatively correlated to the percentage of broken kernels in rice samples.

Conclusion

Differences in the proportions of broken rice in a milled rice sample play a major role in determining the texture properties of cooked rice. Variations in the moisture migration kinetics between broken and unbroken kernels caused faster hydration of the cores of broken rice kernels, with greater starch leach‐out during cooking affecting the texture of the cooked rice. The texture of cooked rice can be controlled, to some extent, by varying the proportion of broken kernels in milled rice. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Molecularly imprinted stir bars for selective extraction of thiabendazole in citrus samples
Authors: Turiel Esther , Martín‐Esteban Antonio
Published: October 2012

Stir‐bar sorptive extraction is based on the partitioning of target analytes between the sample (mostly aqueous‐based liquid samples) and a stationary phase‐coated magnetic stir bar. Until now, only PDMS‐coated stir bars are commercially available, restricting the range of applications to the non‐selective extraction of hydrophobic compounds due to the apolar character of PDMS. In this work, a novel stir bar coated with molecularly imprinted polymer as selective extraction phase for sorptive extraction of thiabendazole (TBZ) was developed. Two different procedures, based on physical or chemical coating, were assessed for the preparation of molecularly imprinted stir bars. Under optimum conditions, recoveries achieved both in imprinted and non‐imprinted polymer stir bars obtained by physical coating were very low, whereas TBZ was favourably retained by imprinted over non‐imprinted polymer stir bars obtained by chemical coating and thus the latter approach was used in further studies. Different parameters affecting both stir‐bars preparation (i.e. cross‐linker, porogen, polymerization time) and the subsequent selective extraction of TBZ (i.e. washing, loading and elution solvents, extraction time) were properly optimized. The molecularly imprinted coated stir bars were applied to the extraction of TBZ from citrus samples (orange, lemon and citrus juices) allowing its final determination at concentrations levels according to current regulations.
Robustness of iCIEF methodology for the analysis of monoclonal antibodies: An interlaboratory study
Authors: Salas‐Solano Oscar , Kennel Babu , Park SungAe Suhr , Roby Kelly , Sosic Zoran , Boumajny Boris , Free Sarah , Reed‐Bogan Angelia , Michels David , McElroy Will , Bonasia Pauline , Hong Mingfang , He Xiaoping , Ruesch Margaret , Moffatt Frank , Kiessig Steffen , Nunnally Brian
Published: October 2012

An international team including 12 laboratories from 11 independent biopharmaceutical companies in the United States and Switzerland was formed to evaluate the precision and robustness of imaged capillary isoelectric focusing for the charge heterogeneity analysis of monoclonal antibodies. The different laboratories determined the apparent pI and the relative distribution of the charged isoforms for a representative monoclonal antibody sample using the same capillary isoelectric focusing assay. Statistical evaluation of the data was performed to determine within and between laboratory consistencies and outlying information. The apparent pI data generated for each charged variant peak showed very good precision between laboratories with RSD values of less than 0.8%. Similarly, the RSD for the therapeutic monoclonal antibody charged variants percent peak area values are less than 11% across different laboratories using different analyst, different lots of ampholytes and multiple instruments. These results validate the appropriate use of imaged capillary isoelectric focusing in the biopharmaceutical industry in support of process development and regulatory submissions of therapeutic antibodies.
Toward A Community‐driven Development Model of Rural Tourism: the Chinese Experience
Authors: Zou Tongqian , Huang Songshan (Sam) , Ding Peiyi
Published: October 2012

Based on three case studies of rural tourism practices in suburban Beijing, China, this paper proposes a community‐driven development (CDD) model in rural tourism. The paper illustrated three principles of the CDD model: localization of supply chain, community‐external investor symbiosis, and democratization of decision making. The three principles as a whole serve as key to understanding and successfully implementing the CDD in China. Although the three principles come from the practice of rural tourism development in China, it is hoped that theoretical implications could be derived from this paper to direct tourism planning exercises in other countries, especially those developing countries with similar economic development backgrounds to China. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PTSD in Asylum‐Seeking Male Adolescents From Afghanistan
Authors: Bronstein Israel , Montgomery Paul , Dobrowolski Stephanie
Published: October 2012

This study concerned the mental health of Afghan unaccompanied asylum‐seeking children in the United Kingdom (UK). Afghans are the largest group of children seeking asylum in the UK, yet evidence concerning their mental health is limited. This study presents an estimate of probable posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) within this group and describes its associations with the cumulative effect of premigration traumatic events, immigration/asylum status, and social care living arrangements. Male adolescents (N = 222) aged 13–18 years completed validated self‐report screening measures for traumatic experiences and likely PTSD. One‐third (34.3%) scored above a selected cutoff, suggesting that they are likely to have PTSD. A higher incidence of premigration traumatic events was associated with greater PTSD symptomatology. Children living in semi‐independent care arrangements were more likely to report increased PTSD symptoms when compared to their peers in foster care. A substantial majority in this study did not score above the cutoff, raising the possibility of notable levels of resilience. Future research should consider approaching mental health issues from a resilience perspective to further the understanding of protective mechanisms for this at‐risk population.
Postradiation sarcoma after radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Chan Jimmy Yu Wai , Wong Stanley Thian Sze , Lau Gregory Ian Siu Kee , Wei William Ignace
Published: October 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Postradiation sarcoma (PRS) is a notorious complication after radiotherapy (RT). The prognosis is poor, and the role of surgery is not well defined. The aim of our study was to review our experience in the management of PRS after RT for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Study Design:

Case series.

Methods:

Between 1998 and 2011, all patients treated for PRS after radiation for NPC were reviewed retrospectively.

Results:

Twenty‐five patients were included. The mean latency period for the development of PRS after previous RT was 12.4 years. The histologic subtypes included osteosarcoma (n = 8), rhabdomyosarcoma (n = 6), undifferentiated sarcoma (n = 6), malignant fibrous histiocytoma (n = 4), and leiomyosarcoma (n = 1). Twenty patients underwent surgery with curative intent, but 14 of them eventually had microscopic positive resection margins. Among them, all received postoperative adjuvant chemoradiation, and six of them had brachytherapy as well. However, 71.4% of them eventually developed local recurrence. The median survival was significantly better for those with clear margin resection than for those with positive margins (5.12 years vs. 1.44 years, P = .04). Surgery was effective in symptom palliation, including tumor pain, bleeding, and trismus.

Conclusions:

PRS remains a disease with poor prognosis. Surgical resection with clear margins achieves significantly better survival. Surgery is also effective in the palliation of pain, bleeding, and trismus in patients with advanced staged disease. Laryngoscope, 2012
Effects of zinc deficiency and supplementation on gene expression of bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs) on the tongue in rats
Authors: Sekine Hiroki , Takao Kyoichi , Yoshinaga Koji , Kokubun Shinichiro , Ikeda Minoru
Published: October 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

We examined the effect of zinc deficiency and supplementation on the expression of bitter taste receptor (TAS2R) and epithelial sodium ion channel (ENaC) genes on the tongue in rats.

Study Design:

Prospective animal study.

Methods:

A total of 36 male Sprague‐Dawley rats (3 weeks old) were used. Twelve rats were fed a normal diet for 28 (n = 6) or 56 (n = 6) days, another 12 were fed a zinc‐deficient diet for the same periods, and still another 12 were fed a zinc‐deficient diet for 28 days and then administered zinc for a further 28 days. The epithelium of the circumvallate papillae was collected, and expression of the TAS2R40, TAS2R105, TAS2R107, TAS2R118, TAS2R121, TAS2R136, TAS2R140, and ENaC genes was examined by reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction.

Results:

Gene expression frequency of TAS2R40 and TAS2R107 significantly decreased in rats fed a zinc‐deficient diet, and frequency of TAS2R107 significantly increased following zinc administration. No changes were noted in expression of TAS2R105, TAS2R118, TAS2R121, or ENaC in zinc‐deficient rats.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that zinc may affect gene expression for some TAS2Rs on the tongue in rats. Laryngoscope, 2012
Comprehensive management of temporal bone defects after oncologic resection
Authors: Hanasono Matthew M. , Silva Amanda K. , Yu Peirong , Skoracki Roman J. , Sturgis Erich M. , Gidley Paul W.
Published: October 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To evaluate reconstructive outcomes following oncologic temporal bone resection.

Study Design:

Retrospective review.

Methods:

Subjects consisted of 117 patients undergoing temporal bone resection and reconstruction between 2000 and 2010. Reconstructive outcomes, including results following facial nerve repair, were analyzed.

Results:

Reconstruction was performed with a regional flap in 27 patients and a microvascular free flap in 90 patients. Operative time was shorter for cases involving reconstruction with regional flaps compared to free flaps (6.9 vs. 11.2 hours, P < .0001), as were intensive care unit and hospital stays (0.4 vs. 3.4 days, P < .0001 and 4.1 vs. 8.6 days, P < .0001, respectively). Overall complication rates were similar for regional and free flap cases (22.2% vs. 23.3%, P = 1.00), although donor site complications were more common with free flaps (0% vs. 13.3%, P = .07). Facial nerve repairs were performed in 19 patients. Of 14 patients with more than 12 months of follow‐up, 71.4% demonstrated signs of reinnervation and 42.9% achieved a House‐Brackmann score of 3 or better. The mean time to reinnervation was 7.9 months. Recovery was not significantly affected by preoperative nerve function, postoperative radiation, or advanced age (P = 1.00 in each case).

Conclusions:

We recommend regional flaps for small defects based on minimal donor site morbidity, and shorter operative times, intensive care unit, and hospital stays. For extensive defects and in cases involving prior surgery or radiation, free flaps are preferred. Facial nerve repair should be attempted whenever feasible, even in the setting of preoperative weakness, planned postoperative radiation, and advanced age. Laryngoscope, 2012
Assessment of frontal lobe sagging after endoscopic endonasal transcribriform resection of anterior skull base tumors: Is rigid structural reconstruction of the cranial base defect necessary?
Authors: Eloy Jean Anderson , Shukla Pratik A. , Choudhry Osamah J. , Singh Rahul , Liu James K.
Published: October 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The endoscopic endonasal transcribriform approach (EETA) is a viable alternative option for resection of selected anterior skull base (ASB) tumors. However, this technique results in the creation of large cribriform defects. Some have reported the use of a rigid substitute for ASB reconstruction to prevent postoperative frontal lobe sagging. We evaluate the degree of frontal lobe sagging using our triple‐layer technique [fascia lata, acellular dermal allograft, and pedicled nasoseptal flap (PNSF)] without the use of rigid structural reconstruction for large cribriform defects.

Study Design:

Retrospective analysis.

Methods:

Nine patients underwent an EETA for resection of large ASB tumors from August 2010 to November 2011. The degree of frontal lobe displacement after EETA, defined as the ASB position, was calculated based on the most inferior position of the frontal lobe relative to the nasion‐sellar line defined on preoperative and postoperative imaging. A positive value signified upward displacement, and a negative value represented inferior displacement of the frontal lobe.

Results:

The average cribriform defect size was 9.3 cm2 (range, 5.0–13.8 cm2). The average distance of postoperative frontal lobe displacement was 0.2 mm (range, −3.9 to 2.9mm) without any cases of significant brain sagging. The mean follow‐up period was 10.1 months (range, 4–19 months). There were no postoperative CSF leaks.

Conclusions:

Rigid structural repair may not be necessary for ASB defect repair after endoscopic endonasal resection of the cribriform plate. Our technique for multilayer cranial base reconstruction appears to be satisfactory in preventing delayed frontal lobe sagging. Laryngoscope, 2012
Sprayable chitosan/starch‐based sealant reduces adhesion formation in a sheep model for Chronic sinusitis
Authors: Medina Jennifer G. , Das Subinoy
Published: October 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Postoperative adhesion formation after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) remains a complication associated with high revision rates. This study determines the efficacy of a sprayable chitosan/starch‐based sealant for reducing adhesions in an ESS sheep model for chronic sinusitis.

Study Design:

Prospective, blinded, randomized controlled trial.

Methods:

Sheep (n = 14) with eosinophilic rhinitis (determined by the presence of eosinophilia in nasal secretions) underwent ESS with middle turbinectomies, standardized mucosal injuries created on the lateral nasal wall, and partial thickness wounds created around the ethmoid cell region. Surgery was performed bilaterally (28 nasal cavities). Animals were randomized into treatment with sprayable chitosan/starch‐based sealant (n = 7, 14 nasal cavities) or no treatment (n = 7, 14 nasal cavities). Two animals in the treatment group expired due to anesthetic complications associated with the turbinectomies, leaving five animals (10 sites) that completed the study. Presence of adhesions was assessed by endoscopic evaluation at days 14 and 28 after initial surgery. Adhesion formation was confirmed via necropsy of sinus cavities at day 28 after initial surgery.

Results:

Adhesions were observed in all seven control animals, resulting in an 86% (95% confidence interval [CI], 65–100) adhesion rate (12 of 14 sites). The five surviving treatment animals had a 10% (95% CI, 0–33) adhesion rate (one of 10 sites). Treatment with the sprayable chitosan/starch‐based sealant resulted in a 76% reduction (95% CI, 32–100) of adhesions (P < .002).

Conclusions:

In this sheep model for chronic sinusitis, treatment with sprayable chitosan/starch‐based sealant reduced adhesion formation by 76% after ESS (P < .002). Laryngoscope, 2013
Improved objective outcomes and quality of life after adenotonsillectomy with inferior turbinate reduction in pediatric obstructive sleep apnea with inferior turbinate hypertrophy
Authors: Cheng Po‐Wen , Fang Kai‐Min , Su Huang‐Wei , Huang Tsung‐Wei
Published: October 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Whether adenotonsillectomy (AT) is sufficient for pediatric obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) with persistent severe allergic rhinitis (PSAR) remains unclear. This study attempts to identify the role of inferior turbinate reduction in treating pediatric OSAS with PSAR.

Study Design:

Case series with planned data collection.

Methods:

Fifty‐one subjects aged 3 to 12 years with OSAS and PSAR were enrolled. Among them, 23 patients underwent AT concurrent with microdebrider‐assisted inferior turbinoplasty (MAIT) (group AT‐MAIT) and 28 patients underwent AT alone (group AT). Before surgery and at 1 year after surgery, objective outcomes were assessed using overnight polysomnography and acoustic rhinometry. Subjective outcomes were evaluated using the Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)‐18 quality‐of‐life questionnaire (OSA‐18).

Results:

Following surgery, the median apnea‐hypopnea index, minimal oxygen saturation, and snoring index were 0.8 (/h), 94 (%), and 104 (/h) in group AT‐MAIT, respectively, compared with 3.5 (/h), 93 (%), and 158 (/h) in group AT, respectively (P < .05). In group AT‐MAIT, the median postoperative minimal cross‐sectional area recorded by acoustic rhinometry was 0.31 cm2, significantly larger than 0.16 cm2 in group AT (P < .01). Compared with postoperative scores in group AT, those in group AT‐MAIT were significantly improved in domains of physical symptoms, emotional symptoms, daytime function, caregiver concerns, and overall OSA‐18 scores (P < .05).

Conclusions:

Analytical results suggest that AT with concurrent MAIT achieves favorable subjective and objective outcomes in pediatric OSAS with PSAR. We believe that volume reduction of the inferior turbinate plays an important role in treating pediatric OSAS with inferior turbinate hypertrophy. Laryngoscope, 2012
The role of aerodigestive tract endoscopy in penetrating neck trauma
Authors: Soliman Ahmed M.S. , Ahmad Sidrah M. , Roy Deborshi
Published: October 2012

Objective/Hypothesis

To determine the role of aerodigestive tract endoscopy in the management of penetrating neck trauma.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

A search of the hospital's trauma database was performed for patients who presented with penetrating neck trauma between July 1989 and June 2008. The mechanism and site of injury, airway status and manipulation, physical findings, diagnostic and therapeutic steps taken, and outcomes were all recorded.

Results

One hundred sixty‐three patients were identified. There were 144 males and 19 females. The mean age was 28 years (range, 13 to 65 years). There were 105 gunshot wounds, 9 shotgun injuries, and 48 stab wounds. Seventy‐three patients (45%) underwent emergent neck exploration, of which 15 had upper aerodigestive tract injuries; intraoperative endoscopy was performed on 13 and was used to guide the repair. Ninety patients (55%) did not meet the criteria for emergent neck exploration. Endoscopy in this group was performed in symptomatic patients, which revealed two cases of unilateral true vocal fold motion impairment, one mucosal laceration of the right mainstem bronchus, one questionable area of injury at the apical segment of the right upper lobe bronchus, and one mucosal laceration of the proximal esophagus.

Conclusions

Aerodigestive tract endoscopy is critical in assessing and guiding surgical repair of injuries noted on surgical exploration. In stable patients with a low clinical suspicion of aerodigestive tract injury, it was of low yield. We propose a new algorithm for assessing aerodigestive tract injuries that includes multidetector computed tomography, in which only symptomatic patients who fail to meet the criteria for emergent neck exploration undergo endoscopy.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 124:S1–S9, 2014
Effect of turbinate surgery in rhinoseptoplasty on quality‐of‐life and acoustic rhinometry outcomes: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Lavinsky‐Wolff Michelle , Camargo Humberto Lopes , Barone Carolina Rocha , Rabaioli Luisi , Wolff Fernando Herz , Dolci José Eduardo Lutaif , Polanczyk Carisi Anne
Published: October 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To evaluate the role of inferior turbinate reduction during rhinoseptoplasty in quality‐of‐life outcomes and nasal airway cross‐sectional area.

Study Design:

Randomized clinical trial.

Methods:

Individuals over 16 years with nasal obstruction, candidates to functional and aesthetics primary rhinoseptoplasty, were evaluated from December 2010 though January 2012 at a tertiary University Hospital, Brazil. Eligible participants were randomly allocated to rhinoseptoplasty with or inferior turbinate reduction through submucosal diathermy. Outcomes: Relative changes ([postop–preop]/preop score) in specific (Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation; NOSE) and general quality‐of‐life instruments (WHOQOL‐bref), nasal obstruction visual analogue scale (NO‐VAS) and nasal area measurements in acoustic rhinometry. Outcomes were blindly assessed 3 months postoperatively. Protocol was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01457638).

Results:

50 patients were included, mainly Caucasians with moderate/severe allergic rhinitis symptoms. Mean age was 32 ± 12 yr and 58% were female. Rhinoseptoplasty improved specific and general quality‐of‐life scores irrespective of turbinate intervention (P < 0.001).There was no difference between subjects submitted or not to inferior turbinate reduction in NOSE score (−75% vs. −73%; P = 0.893); all WHOQOL‐bref score domains (P > 0.05), NO‐VAS (−88% vs. −81%; P = 0.89) and acoustic rhinometry recordings (P > 0.05).During follow‐up less patients in the rhinoplasty with inferior turbinate reduction group were using topical corticosteroids (6[24%] vs. 13[54%]; P = 0.03). Multivariable analyses, adjusting for postoperative topical corticosteroid use and previous nasal fracture, had no effect on these results.

Conclusions:

Turbinate reduction through submucosal diathermy during primary rhinoseptoplasty did not improve short‐term general and specific quality‐of‐life outcomes and acoustic rhinometry recordings. The role of turbinate reduction in sparing chronic corticosteroid use should be confirmed in long‐term follow‐up studies. Laryngoscope, 2013
Improvement of tracheal flap method for laryngotracheal separation
Authors: Shino Masato , Yasuoka Yoshihito , Murata Takaaki , Ninomiya Hiroshi , Takayasu Yukihiro , Takahashi Katsumasa , Chikamatsu Kazuaki
Published: October 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Recurrent pneumonia due to intractable aspiration is a life‐threatening disease. A tracheal flap method for children without previous tracheostomy has been previously reported. This study reports that improvements of this method and its three subtypes are widely applicable to patients with various conditions.

Study Design:

Surgical technique study.

Methods:

The tracheal flap method does not involve transection of the trachea but achieves laryngotracheal separation using the tracheal, mucoperichondrial, and sternohyoid muscle, along with anterior cervical skin flaps. This method can be divided into three subtypes as follows: A‐type, utilizing the tracheal flap (for patients without previous tracheostomy); B‐type, utilizing the mucoperichondrial and sternohyoid muscle flaps (for patients lacking an anterior tracheal wall); and C‐type, utilizing the esophageal flap (for patients with severe hypersalivation). In all three subtypes, the anterior cervical skin flap is employed.

Results:

The tracheal flap method was performed in 30 patients (24 children and six adults) at risk of developing intractable aspiration pneumonia. In all 30 cases, aspiration pneumonia was prevented without severe complications. No fistula formation was observed.

Conclusions:

All three subtypes (A‐, B‐, and C‐type) of the tracheal flap method are effective in preventing the recurrence of aspiration pneumonia. This method is applicable to diverse patient backgrounds regardless of age or previous tracheostomy. It is less invasive than Lindeman procedure. Furthermore, this method is acceptable to patients' families and improves the QOL of both patients and caregivers. Laryngoscope, 2012