bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of amyloid in abdominal fat pad aspirates in early amyloidosis: Role of electron microscopy and Congo red stained cell block sections
Authors: Devata Sumana , Hari Parameswaran , Markelova Natalia , Li Rongshan , Komorowski Richard , Shidham Vinod B.
Published: June 2011

Background:

Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNA) of the abdominal fat pad is a minimally invasive procedure to demonstrate tissue deposits of amyloid. However, protocols to evaluate amyloid in fat pad aspirates are not standardized, especially for detecting scant amyloid in early disease.

Materials and Methods:

We studied abdominal fat pad aspirates from 33 randomly selected patients in whom subsequent tissue biopsy, autopsy, and/or medical history for confirmation of amyloidosis (AL) were also available. All these cases were suspected to have early AL, but had negative results on abdominal fat pad aspirates evaluated by polarizing microscopy of Congo Red stained sections (CRPM). The results with CRPM between four reviewers were compared in 12 cases for studying inter observer reproducibility. 24 cases were also evaluated by ultrastructural study with electron microscopy (EM).

Results:

Nine of thirty-three (27%) cases reported negative by polarizing microscopy had amyloidosis. Reanalysis of 12 mixed positive-negative cases, showed considerable inter-observer variability with frequent lack of agreement between four observers by CRPM alone (Cohen's Kappa index of 0.1, 95% CI -0.1 to 0.36). EM showed amyloid in the walls of small blood vessels in fibroadipose tissue in four out of nine cases (44%) with amyloidosis.

Conclusion:

In addition to poor inter-observer reproducibility, CRPM alone in cases with scant amyloid led to frequent false negative results (9 out of 9, 100%). For improved detection of AL, routine ultrastructural evaluation with EM of fat pad aspirates by evaluating at least 15 small blood vessels in the aspirated fibroadipose tissue is recommended. Given the high false negative rate for CRPM alone in early disease, routine reflex evaluation with EM is highly recommended to avert the invasive option of biopsying various organs in cases with high clinical suspicion for AL.
Moving on up: Second-Line Agents as Initial Treatment for Newly-Diagnosed Patients with Chronic Phase CML
Authors: Shieh Marie P. , Mitsuhashi Masato , Lilly Michael
Published: June 2011

The treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) was revolutionized by the development of imatinib mesylate, a small molecule inhibitor of several protein tyrosine kinases, including the ABL1 protein tyrosine kinase. The current second generation of FDA-approved ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitors, dasatinib and nilotinib, are more potent inhibitors of BCR-ABL1 kinase in vitro. Originally approved for the treatment of patients who were refractory to or intolerant of imatinib, dasatinib and nilotinib are now also FDA approved in the first-line setting. The choice of tyrosine kinase inhibitor (ie, standard or high dose imatinib, dasatinib, nilotinib) to use for initial therapy in chronic-phase CML (CML-CP) will not always be obvious. Therapy selection will depend on both clinical and molecular factors, which we will discuss in this review.
Pramipexole and its Extended Release Formulation for Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Fishman Paul S.
Published: June 2011

Pramipexole has been a widely used dopamine agonist for the last decade. Recently an extended release formulation of pramipexole has been introduced as both monotherapy for patients with early Parkinson's disease as well as for patients with more advanced disease, as an adjunct to L-DOPA. Along with the enhanced patient compliance seen with once a day dosing, there are other potential advantages of extended release preparations of dopamine agonists. Patients initiated on pramipexole have a lower incidence of developing motor fluctuations including dyskinesia than those initiated on L-DOPA. Pramipexole requires a prolonged dose titration compared to L-DOPA, and generally does not have the efficacy of L-DOPA. The extended release form of pramipexole shows comparable mean and peak serum levels with once a day dosing as seen with three times a day dosing of the immediate release preparation. The extended release preparation has been studied in randomized multicenter clinical trial against both placebo and the immediate release preparation in the setting of early Parkinson's disease as monotherapy and in more advanced patients with motor fluctuations on L-DOPA. In both settings the extended release preparation was superior to placebo and comparable to the immediate release form in efficacy with a similar side effect profile including nausea, sleepiness, leg edema, dyskinesias, hallucinations and impulse control disorders.
Cavity Preparation with Er:YAG Laser or Rotary Instruments: Investigation of the Composite Resin Restorations Interface
Authors: Torres Carlos Rocha Gomes , Huhtala Maria Filomena Rocha Lima , de Araújo Maria Amélia Máximo , Teixeira Simone Cristina , Araújo Rodrigo Máximo de
Published: June 2011

This study evaluated the sealing of composite resin restorations after cavity preparation with high speed diamonds burs or Er:YAG laser. Two different adhesive systems were used; conventional and self-etching. Seventy bovine incisors were divided into groups according to the cavity treatment (N = 10): G1 (bur + acid + Excite); G2 (bur + One Up); G3 (bur + laser + Excite); G3 (bur + laser + One Up); G4 (laser + acid + Excite); G5 (laser + One Up) and G6 (laser + Excite). Restorations were performed with Filtek Z250 3M/ESPE. The specimes were then thermocycled and placed in a vacuum machine, at a negative atmosphere of 20 inch Hg for 5 minutes, for removal of entrapped air. This procedure was followed by immersion in a 50% silver nitrate solution. The teeth were sectioned and the evaluation of the marginal leakage was performed in a light stereomicroscope. The results were submitted to the ANOVA and Tukey statistical tests. It was concluded that preparations performed with high-speed turbines and Er:YAG laser presented the same performance; preparations with Er:YAG laser submitted to acid-etching and conventional adhesive system presented high values of marginal leakage, with statistical significance; conventional and self-etching adhesive systems presented the same performance as to marginal microleakage.
Effectiveness of Three Different Toothpaste Formulations in Reduction of Plaque and Gingivitis: A Comparative Clinical Study
Authors: Bhardwaj Amit , Bhardwaj Shalu V
Published: June 2011

The role of dental plaque in gingivitis and periodontitis is well established. It is commonly observed that daily brushing often fails to achieve and maintain optimum gingival health. In order to improve the efficacy of the self-performed mechanical tooth cleaning procedure, antimicrobial substances like chlorhexidine, metallic ions, fluorides and various phenolic compounds have been evaluated, as such adjuvants in clinical trials that have been added to dentifrice used during tooth brushing. Triclosan (2, 4, 4' trichloro-2'hydroxyphenylether) is a nonionic antibacterial agent with broad spectrum activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. Recently, triclosan was introduced in toothpaste and mouth rinses for control of plaque and gingivitis. However, maximum antiplaque activity is shown when triclosan is used in combination with agents like copolymer polyvinyl methyl ether maleic acid (PVM/MA). The PVM/MA copolymer retains the triclosan on the soft and hard surfaces of the oral cavity for several hours. This study aims in proving efficacy of triclosan copolymer toothpaste over the triclosan alone and non-triclosan toothpaste in reduction of plaque and gingivitis.
Influence of Self-Etching Adhesive Systems on Restorative Material Surfaces
Authors: Barcellos Daphne Câmara , Pucci Cesar Rogério , Torres Carlos Rocha Gomes , Gomes Ana Paula Martins , de Paiva Gonçalves Sergio Eduardo , Huhtala Maria Filomena R Lima , Silva Melissa Aline
Published: June 2011

This study evaluated the microhardness of restorative materials after the use of self-etching and acid-etching adhesives. Specimens were divided into four groups: Group 1 (CR): Composite resin, Group 2 (GIC): Glass ionomer cement chemically activated, Group 3 (EC): Dual resinous cement, Group 4 (E): Dual resinous cement. Each group was divided into three subgroups, according to the type of adhesive system applied on the surface: Subgroup 1 (C): Control subgroup, Subgroup 2 (XE): Xeno III self-etching adhesive, Subgroup 3 (SB): Single bond acid-etching adhesive. Vickers microhardness analysis was performed on the surfaces and the data were submitted to the two-way ANOVA and the Tukey's test. The means for the material factor: GIC: (35.61)a; CR: (43.54)b; E: (44.65)b; EC: (50.13)c. The means for the adhesive factor: SB: (36.35)a; XE: (38.44)a; C: (55.65)b. All materials tested showed a decrease in surface hardness after application of the adhesive systems, irrespective of the system. The lowest microhardness was shown by GIC and the highest by Enforce Core.
Evaluation of Reduction in Relapse and Enhancement of Patient Compliance with Hybrid Technique of Maxillary Distraction Osteogenesis: A Long-term Study
Authors: Deepak S , Rao Girish S
Published: June 2011

Introduction and objectives

Hybrid technique of maxillary distraction osteogenesis is the latest advance introduced to correct maxillary hypoplasia in cleft lip and palate patients. The objectives of this study was to clinically and cephalometrically evaluate the stability of advanced maxilla over a period of 3 years, after maxillary advancement with hybrid technique of distraction osteogenesis in cleft lip and palate patients, and to asses the patient compliance during the procedure.

Materials and methods

Ten cleft lip and palate patients having severe maxillary hypoplasia underwent surgical correction of maxillary hypoplasia using hybrid technique of distraction osteogenesis where the rigid external distraction device was immediately removed after the active distraction period, and the advanced maxilla was fixed with rigid internal fixation. Clinical and cephalometrical analyses of the craniofacial skeleton were done at the predistraction, after active distraction and 3 years postdistraction period.

Results

The results of the clinical and cephalometrical evaluation indicated that there was an effective horizontal advancement of maxilla, increase in the length of the maxilla and a positive correction of overjet all together esthetically improving the facial profile. Three years post distraction evaluation of both the hard and soft tissue profiles indicated a very minimal relapse. All the patients had greater level of compliance after the removal of rigid external distractor and fixation of the distracted maxilla.

Conclusion

This study concluded that hybrid technique of maxillary distraction osteogenesis in cleft lip and palate patients gave esthetically acceptable facial profile with minimal relapse after 3 years of follow-up and an increased level of patient compliance during the procedure.
Aerosol optical properties in the North China Plain during HaChi campaign: an in-situ optical closure study
Authors: Ma N. , Zhao C. S. , Nowak A. , Müller T. , Pfeifer S. , Cheng Y. F. , Deng Z.Z. , Liu P. F. , Xu W. Y. , Ran L. , Yan P. , Göbel T. , Hallbauer E. , Mildenberger K. , Henning S. , Yu J. , Chen L. L. , Zhou X. J. , Stratmann F. , Wiedensohler A.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. The largest uncertainty in the estimation of climate forcing stems from atmospheric aerosols. In early spring and summer of 2009, two periods of in-situ measurements on aerosol physical and chemical properties were conducted within the HaChi (Haze in China) project at Wuqing, a town between Beijing and Tianjin in the North China Plain (NCP). Aerosol optical properties, including the scattering coefficient (σsp), the hemispheric back scattering coefficient (σbsp), the absorption coefficient (σap), as well as the single scattering albedo (ω), are presented. The diurnal and seasonal variations are analyzed together with meteorology and satellite data. The mean values of σsp, 550 nm of the dry aerosol in spring and summer are 280±253 and 379±251 Mm−1, respectively. The average σap for the two periods is respectively 47±38 and 43±27 Mm−1. The mean values of ω at the wavelength of 637 nm are 0.82±0.05 and 0.86±0.05 for spring and summer, respectively. The relative high levels of σsp and σbsp are representative of the regional aerosol pollution in the NCP. Pronounced diurnal cycle of $σsp, σap and ω are found, mainly influenced by the evolution of boundary layer and the accumulation of local emissions during nighttime. The pollutants transported from the southwest of the NCP are more significant than that from the two megacities, Beijing and Tianjin, in both spring and summer. An optical closure experiment is conducted to better understand the uncertainties of the measurements. Good correlations (R>0.98) are found between the values measured by the nephelometer and the values calculated with a modified Mie model. The Monte Carlo simulation shows an uncertainty of about 30 % for the calculations. Considering all possible uncertainties of measurements, calculated σsp and σbsp agree well with the measured values, indicating a stable performance of instruments and thus reliable aerosol optical data.
Matching radiative transfer models and radiosonde data from the EPS/Metop Sodankylä campaign to IASI measurements
Authors: Calbet X. , Kivi R. , Tjemkes S. , Montagner F. , Stuhlmann R.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. Radiances observed from IASI are compared to calculated ones. Calculated radiances are obtained using several radiative transfer models (OSS, LBLRTM v11.3 and v11.6) on best estimates of the atmospheric state vectors. The atmospheric state vectors are derived from cryogenic frost point hygrometer and humidity dry bias corrected RS92 measurements flown on sondes launched 1 h and 5 min before IASI overpass time. The temperature and humidity best estimate profiles are obtained by interpolating or extrapolating these measurements to IASI overpass time. The IASI observed and calculated radiances match to within one sigma IASI instrument noise in the spectral region where water vapour is a strong absorber (wavenumber, ν, in the range of 1500 ≤ ν ≤ 1570 and 1615 ≤ ν ≤ 1800 cm−1).
Integrated versus isolated scenario for prediction dissolved oxygen at progression of water quality monitoring stations
Authors: Najah A. A. , El-Shafie A. , Karim O. A. , Jaafar O.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. This study examined the potential of Multi-layer Perceptron Neural Network (MLP-NN) in predicting dissolved oxygen (DO) at Johor River Basin. The river water quality parameters were monitored regularly each month at four different stations by the Department of Environment (DOE) over a period of ten years, i.e. from 1998 to 2007. The following five water quality parameters were selected for the proposed MLP-NN modelling, namely; temperature (Temp), water pH, electrical conductivity (COND), nitrate (NO3) and ammonical nitrogen (NH3–NL). In this study, two scenarios were introduced; the first scenario (Scenario 1) was to establish the prediction model for DO at each station based on five input parameters, while the second scenario (Scenario 2) was to establish the prediction model for DO based on the five input parameters and DO predicted at previous station (upstream). The model needs to verify when output results and the observed values are close enough to satisfy the verification criteria. Therefore, in order to investigate the efficiency of the proposed model, the verification of MLP-NN based on collection of field data within duration 2009–2010 is presented. To evaluate the effect of input parameters on the model, the sensitivity analysis was adopted. It was found that the most effective inputs were oxygen-containing (NO3) and oxygen demand (NH3–NL). On the other hand, Temp and pH were found to be the least effective parameters, whereas COND contributed the lowest to the proposed model. In addition, 17 neurons were selected as the best number of neurons in the hidden layer for the MLP-NN architecture. To evaluate the performance of the proposed model, three statistical indexes were used, namely; Coefficient of Efficiency (CE), Mean Square Error (MSE) and Coefficient of Correlation (CC). A relatively low correlation between the observed and predicted values in the testing data set was obtained in Scenario 1. In contrast, high coefficients of correlation were obtained between the observed and predicted values for the test sets of 0.98, 0.96 and 0.97 for all stations after adopting Scenario 2. It appeared that the results for Scenario 2 were more adequate than Scenario 1, with a significant improvement for all stations ranging from 4 % to 8 %.
The Topology of GB-Metric Spaces
Authors: Dehghan Nezhad Akbar , Aral Zohreh
Published: June 2011

We define the concepts of GB-metric in sets over σ-complete Boolean algebra and obtain some applications of them on the theory of topology. We also study some related properties of them.
A Very Unusual Presentation of Metastatic Colon Cancer
Authors: Fahrtash Farzan , Chan David , Colebatch Andrew , Rutovitz Joseph
Published: June 2011

This case highlights two very rare complications of metastatic colorectal carcinoma. It
describes a 59 year old female with both cutaneous and endometrial metastases from colorectal
carcinoma. While both of these presentations are very unusual, they highlight the need to be vigilant
about the detection of metastatic complications during follow up.
On a Nonlinear Wave Equation Associated with Dirichlet Conditions: Solvability and Asymptotic Expansion of Solutions in Many Small Parameters
Authors: Ngoc Le Thi Phuong , Luan Le Khanh , Thuyet Tran Minh , Long Nguyen Thanh
Published: June 2011

A Dirichlet problem for a nonlinear wave equation is investigated. Under suitable assumptions, we prove the solvability and the uniqueness of a weak solution of the above problem. On the other hand, a high-order asymptotic expansion of a weak solution in many small parameters is studied. Our approach is based on the Faedo-Galerkin method, the compact imbedding theorems, and the Taylor expansion of a function.
Ca2+/Calmodulin and Presynaptic Short-Term Plasticity
Authors: Mochida Sumiko
Published: June 2011

Synaptic efficacy is remodeled by neuronal firing activity at the presynaptic terminal. Presynaptic activity-dependent changes in transmitter release induce postsynaptic plasticity, including morphological change in spine, gene transcription, and protein synthesis and trafficking. The presynaptic transmitter release is triggered and regulated by Ca2+, which enters through voltage-gated Ca2+ (CaV) channels and diffuses into the presynaptic terminal accompanying action potential firings. Residual Ca2+ is sensed by Ca2+-binding proteins, among other potential actions, it mediates time- and space-dependent synaptic facilitation and depression via effects on CaV2 channel gating and vesicle replenishment in the readily releasable pool (RRP). Calmodulin, a Ca2+-sensor protein with an EF-hand motif that binds Ca2+, interacts with CaV2 channels and autoreceptors in modulation of SNARE-mediated exocytosis.
The preparation and forming mechanism of the red blood cell‐shaped microspheres via electrospraying
Authors: Wang Lihua , Zhang Quanchao , Wang Xiaojun , Liu Jing , Yang Jie
Published: June 2011

This article successfully prepared the red blood cell‐shaped microspheres via electrospraying. The polymer solution was comprised of polyether sulfone (PES) and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), and the hydrophilic polyethylene glycol (PEG) was added to regulate and control the structure of the microspheres. When the solution concentration was 7.6 wt % and PES/PEG proportion was 10 : 5 while preparing microspheres, the shape and diameter of the microspheres was the most similar to that of erythrocyte. The results suggested that the forming mechanism of the red blood cell‐shaped microspheres be related to two aspects. One is that the microspheres had relatively weak mechanical strength because of the sponge pores internal nanostructure. The other is that the existence of residual solvents and water within the microspheres would dissolve the gel phase PES and then further weaken mechanical strength of the outer layer of the microspheres, which caused the structural changes on the top layer of the spheres, that is, the top layer collapsed, and the microspheres finally turned into the red blood cell‐shaped microspheres. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011.
Short‐term and long‐term outcomes of interstitial lung disease in polymyositis and dermatomyositis: A series of 107 patients
Authors: Marie I. , Hatron P. Y. , Dominique S. , Cherin P. , Mouthon L. , Menard J.‐F.
Published: June 2011

Objective

This study was undertaken to assess the characteristics and outcome of interstitial lung disease (ILD) in polymyositis/dermatomyositis (PM/DM) and to determine variables predictive of ILD deterioration in PM/DM.

Methods

Among 348 consecutive patients with PM/DM, 107 patients with ILD were identified by medical records search in 4 medical centers. All patients underwent pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and pulmonary high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scan.

Results

ILD onset preceded PM/DM clinical manifestations in 20 patients, was identified concurrently with PM/DM in 69 patients, and occurred after PM/DM onset in 18 patients. Patients with ILD could be divided into 3 groups according to their presenting lung manifestations: patients with acute lung disease (n = 20), patients with progressive‐course lung signs (n = 55), and asymptomatic patients with abnormalities consistent with ILD evident on PFTs and HRCT scan (n = 32). We observed that 32.7% of the patients had resolution of pulmonary disorders, whereas 15.9% experienced ILD deterioration. Factors that predicted a poor ILD prognosis were older age, symptomatic ILD, lower values of vital capacity and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide, a pattern of usual interstitial pneumonia on HRCT scan and lung biopsy, and steroid‐refractory ILD. The mortality rate was higher in patients with ILD deterioration than in those without ILD deterioration (47.1% versus 3.3%).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that ILD results in high morbidity in PM/DM. Our findings also suggest that more aggressive therapy may be required in PM/DM patients presenting with factors predictive of poor ILD outcome.
Genetic evidence of the regulatory role of parathyroid hormone–related protein in articular chondrocyte maintenance in an experimental mouse model
Authors: Macica Carolyn , Liang Guoying , Nasiri Ali , Broadus Arthur E.
Published: June 2011

Objective

Parathyroid hormone–related protein (PTHrP) regulates the rate of differentiation of growth chondrocytes and is also expressed in articular chondrocytes. This study tested the hypothesis that PTHrP might have a regulatory role in articular chondrocyte maintenance.

Methods

Control sequences of growth differentiation factor 5 were used to delete PTHrP from articular chondrocytes in the mid‐region of mouse articular cartilage. Mice with conditional deletion of PTHrP (knockout [KO]) and littermate control mice were evaluated for degenerative changes using both a time‐course design and destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) technique. A total histologic score of degenerative changes was determined for the femoral and tibial articular surfaces (total maximum score of 60).

Results

The time‐course study revealed degenerative changes in only a minority of the KO mice. In the DMM model, male KO mice were highly susceptible to DMM‐induced degenerative changes (mean ± SEM total histologic score 45 ± 2.7 in KO mice versus 23 ± 1.4 in controls; P < 0.0001 by Mann‐Whitney U test), with virtually no overlap between groups. PTHrP normally functions in a feedback loop with Indian hedgehog (IHH), in which a reduction in one signaling partner induces a compensatory increase in the other. A number of phenotypic and functional markers were documented in KO mice to suggest that the IHH–PTHrP axis is capable of compensating in response to a partial Cre‐driven PTHrP deletion, a finding that underscores the need to subject the mouse articular cartilage to a destabilizing challenge in order to elicit frankly degenerative findings.

Conclusion

PTHrP may regulate articular chondrocyte maintenance in mice.
Increased density of sympathetic nerve fibers in metabolically activated fat tissue surrounding human synovium and mouse lymph nodes in arthritis
Authors: Straub Rainer H. , Lowin Torsten , Klatt Susanne , Wolff Christine , Rauch Luise
Published: June 2011

Objective

To investigate the density of sympathetic nerve fibers in and the metabolic activation of fat tissue surrounding human synovium in rheumatoid arthritis (RA)/osteoarthritis (OA) and in the draining lymph nodes of arthritic and normal mice.

Methods

Using immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry, the density of sympathetic nerve fibers and the presence of nerve repellent factors were investigated. The metabolic activation of fat tissue was estimated by the occurrence of small‐vacuole adipocytes, expression of β3‐adrenoceptors, and adipose tissue weight.

Results

The density of sympathetic nerve fibers was markedly increased in fat tissue surrounding RA synovium compared with that in fat tissue surrounding OA synovium. In adipose tissue adjacent to draining lymph nodes, the density of sympathetic nerve fibers was higher in arthritic mice compared with normal mice. In human synovium and mouse draining lymph nodes, the 2 sympathetic nerve repellent factors, semaphorin 3C and semaphorin 3F, were highly expressed. In arthritic compared with normal mice, the fat tissue around lymph nodes was markedly lighter, adipocytes had more fragmented lipid droplets, and fat tissue demonstrated high expression of β3‐adrenoceptors.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated an increased density of sympathetic nerve fibers in metabolically activated fat tissue surrounding human RA synovium and the draining lymph nodes of arthritic mice. Because sympathetic neurotransmitters stimulate lipolysis, the repulsion of sympathetic nerve fibers from inflamed regions and their increased occurrence in fat tissue probably represent an adaptive program to support the proinflammatory process by releasing energy‐rich substrates.
Heterotrophs grown on the soluble microbial products (SMP) released by autotrophs are responsible for the nitrogen loss in nitrifying granular sludge
Authors: Ni Bing‐Jie , Xie Wen‐Ming , Chen You‐Peng , Fang Fang , Liu Shao‐Yang , Ren Ting‐Ting , Sheng Guo‐Ping , Yu Han‐Qing , Liu Gang , Tian Yang‐Chao
Published: June 2011

In this work, nitrogen loss in the nitrite oxidation step of the nitrification process in an aerobic‐granule‐based reactor was characterized with both experimental and modeling approaches. Experimental results showed that soluble microbial products (SMP) were released from the nitrite‐oxidizing granules and were utilized as a carbon source by the heterotrophs for denitrification. This was verified by the fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis. Microelectrode tests showed that oxygen diffusion limitation did result in an anoxic micro‐zone in the granules and allowed sequential utilization of nitrate as an electron acceptor for heterotrophic denitrification with SMP as a carbon source. To further elucidate the nitrogen loss mechanisms, a mathematic model was formulated to describe the growth of nitrite oxidizers, the formation and consumption of SMP, the anoxic heterotrophic growth on SMP and nitrate, as well as the oxygen transfer and the substrate diffusion in the granules. The results clearly indicate that the heterotrophs grown on the SMP released by the autotrophs are responsible for the nitrogen loss in the nitrifying granules, and give us a better understanding of the aerobic granules for nitrogen removal. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011;108: 2844–2852. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Legal challenges and opportunities
Authors: Heyward Salome
Published: June 2011

The Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments create compelling legal compliance issues, requiring campuswide protocols and coordination.
Responding to and supporting students with disabilities: Risk management considerations
Authors: Lundquist Anne , Shackelford Allan
Published: June 2011

A proactive risk management approach focuses on both academic and cocurricular needs to ensure disability services will maintain the best interests of students with disabilities, the broader campus community, and the institution.
Disability‐friendly university environments: Conducting a climate assessment
Authors: Stodden Robert A. , Brown Steven E. , Roberts Kelly
Published: June 2011

Campus assessment instruments can explore the campus climate for students, faculty, and staff with disabilities, contributing useful insights for services and program development.
Boswellic acid inhibits growth and metastasis of human colorectal cancer in orthotopic mouse model by downregulating inflammatory, proliferative, invasive and angiogenic biomarkers
Authors: Yadav Vivek R. , Prasad Sahdeo , Sung Bokyung , Gelovani Juri G. , Guha Sushovan , Krishnan Sunil , Aggarwal Bharat B.
Published: June 2011

Numerous cancer therapeutics were originally identified from natural products used in traditional medicine. One such agent is acetyl‐11‐keto‐beta‐boswellic acid (AKBA), derived from the gum resin of the Boswellia serrata known as Salai guggal or Indian frankincense. Traditionally, it has been used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat proinflammatory conditions. In this report, we hypothesized that AKBA can affect the growth and metastasis of colorectal cancer (CRC) in orthotopically implanted tumors in nude mice. We found that the oral administration of AKBA (50–200 mg/kg) dose‐dependently inhibited the growth of CRC tumors in mice, resulting in decrease in tumor volumes than those seen in vehicle‐treated mice without significant decreases in body weight. In addition, we observed that AKBA was highly effective in suppressing ascites and distant metastasis to the liver, lungs and spleen in orthotopically implanted tumors in nude mice. When examined for the mechanism, we found that markers of tumor proliferation index Ki‐67 and the microvessel density cluster of differentiation (CD31) were significantly downregulated by AKBA treatment. We also found that AKBA significantly suppressed nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) activation in the tumor tissue and expression of proinflammatory (cyclooxygenase‐2), tumor survival (bcl‐2, bcl‐xL, inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP‐1) and survivin), proliferative (cyclin D1), invasive (intercellular adhesion molecule 1 and matrix metalloproteinase‐9) and angiogenic C‐X‐C (CXC) receptor 4 and vascular endothelial growth factor) biomarkers. When examined for serum and tissue levels of AKBA, a dose‐dependent increase in the levels of the drug was detected, indicating its bioavailability. Thus, our findings suggest that this boswellic acid analog can inhibit the growth and metastasis of human CRC in vivo through downregulation of cancer‐associated biomarkers.
Continuous perfusion culture of encapsulated hybridoma cells
Authors: Lecina Martí , Tintó Albert , Gálvez Jordi , Gòdia Francesc , Cairó Jordi J.
Published: June 2011

BACKGROUND: The production of Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) is often performed in batch or fed‐batch operations where low cell densities and low volumetric productivities are achieved. The main bottleneck of both processes is the short operating time with productive cells at maximum cell concentration.

RESULTS: The process studied in this work is based on a fluidized‐bed bioreactor culture of encapsulated KB26.5 cells in a liquid core of calcium alginate microcapsules as a culture strategy to produce IgG3. First, DMEM medium was modified in order to protect the microcapsules from degradation, and later, the optimal operating conditions were set. Under these conditions encapsulated KB26.5 cells reached cell densities of 1.05 × 108cells mL−1 or 9.8 × 106 cells mL−1 (referred to the inner capsule volume or total bioreactor volume, respectively), and a mAb volumetric productivity of 2.75 µg mL−1 h−1.

CONCLUSIONS: The productivity of encapsulated KB26.5 cells in perfusion culture was enhanced significantly in comparison with batch and fed‐batch processes. Continuous operation of the perfusion culture for periods longer than 35 days, represented a volumetric productivity about five‐fold higher than conventional operations. However, the fluidized‐bed also showed limitations such as low cell viability at high cell densities due to the mass transfer limitations of large molecules inside the microcapsules. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Cleaning secondary effluents with organoclays and activated carbon
Authors: Siebdrath Nadine , Ziskind Gennady , Gitis Vitaly
Published: June 2011

BACKGROUND: Flocculation, adsorption and ultrafiltration, alone and in combination, were tested for tertiary treatment of Beer Sheva (southern Israel) municipal wastewater. The focus was on the adsorption of soluble organics with powdered activated carbon (PAC) and with organoclays.

RESULTS: Adsorption on 0.6 g L−1 octadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (ODTMA) ‐ bentonite and flocculation with 130 mg L−1 FeCl3 reduced the dissolved organic carbon (DOC) level by 46%, and that was the highest DOC retention obtained with the organoclays. Retention achieved with 0.6 g L−1 PAC and 130 mg L−1 FeCl3 was 65%. Filtration through a more hydrophobic PVDF‐30 membrane for 30 min resulted in 35–40% flux drop. A reasonable 6–7% flux reduction was obtained with filtration through a more hydrophilic PS‐50 membrane.

CONCLUSION: Oganoclays at low doses are a good target adsorbent for single low molecular weight molecules. On average, higher TOC retention was achieved with PAC. Introduction of adsorption as a pre‐treatment step can lead to minimization of flux losses, reduced demand for flocculation and improved economics of the entire treatment. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Cost analysis of myasthenia gravis from a large U.S. insurance database
Authors: Guptill Jeffrey T. , Marano Alexander , Krueger Andrew , Sanders Donald B.
Published: June 2011

Introduction:

Little is known about the costs of managing rare diseases, and comprehensive healthcare costs have not been reported for myasthenia gravis (MG). We evaluated the direct costs and healthcare resource utilization in insured MG patients.

Methods:

Costs were obtained from 1288 patients diagnosed with MG who were identified from the Accordant Health Services nationwide medical and pharmacy claims database.

Results:

Average annual medical/pharmacy claims costs per patient were: $6710/$1196 (age 0–19 years); $17,949/$19,573 (20–39 years); $15,112/$12,498 (40–64 years); and $12,597/$8,089 (65+ years). Total annual MG‐related pharmacy costs were $9.4 million; IVIg accounted for 85% of all MG‐related pharmacy costs. Non‐steroidal immunosuppressives, cholinesterase inhibitors, and corticosteroids accounted for 9.3%, 5.7%, and 0.2% of pharmacy costs, respectively.

Conclusions:

Costs related to the treatment of MG are higher than those of many other chronic neurological diseases. A large percentage of costs result from IVIg use, particularly among a subset of patients who receive frequent IVIg infusions. Muscle Nerve 2011
Prediction of the sawing quality of Marmarit stones using the capability of artificial neural network
Authors: Samani Hassan Yarmohamadi , Bafghi Ali Reza Yarahmadi
Published: June 2011

The sawing rate is one of the most significant and effective parameters in extracting building stones via diamond wire sawing. This parameter designates the capability of diamond wire sawing for sawing different stones; in addition, the parameter gives rise to economical considerations for quarry designers. In this study, the existent relations between stone geotechnical parameters and the sawing rate of stones via diamond wire sawing were analyzed using regression and correlation coefficient as well as the collected data from Marmarit stone quarries. Moreover, we estimated the sawing rate of Marmarit using the dimensional stone rock mass rating (DSRMR); upon comparison of the data obtained from DSRMR our pre‐collected data on quarries, we did not gain satisfactory results from DSRMR, hence we used artificial neural network (ANN). The results showed that the percentage of Silica, the coefficient of water absorption, the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS), and abrasive hardness are the proper parameters for creating the ANN. Discontinuities have the least effects possible on diamond wire sawing. Having given the training possibility of the ANN, and its ability to evaluate relations among input parameters, the ANN, which was being trained with Marmarit's traits, was an accurate network for estimating diamond wire sawing in Marmarit quarries, although it could not generalize this network for other stones such as Chini and Crystal. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new conduction phenomenon observed in polyethylene and epoxy resin: Ultra‐fast soliton conduction
Authors: Montanari G. C. , Fabiani D. , Dissado L. A.
Published: June 2011

A new conduction mechanism in polyethylene and epoxy resin is presented and discussed in this article. This mechanism is based on the presence of charge pulses that can be seen as solitons (solitary waves) crossing dielectrics with mobility 4–5 orders of magnitude larger than that of conventional charge carriers. The nature of this new process that is characterized by charge pulses with such high mobility requires a completely different mechanism for transport to be theorized with respect to that, mediated by trap sites, of conventional charge carriers. It is speculated in this article that injection and transport of positive and negative solitons occurs through the coupling of space charge and relaxation processes involving molecular chains, but of different nature for negative or positive solitons. Observation of space charge shows the existence of such solitons for at least two families of materials, polyethylene, and epoxy resin. In addition, it has been observed that nanostructuration, which is able to modify mechanical properties, affects also the presence and size of the solitons. In this article, we not only seek to demonstrate the existence of this new phenomenon, but attempt to provide an explanation and a kind of qualitative–quantitative model, which shows that the assumption of a pulsive conduction mechanism mediated by chain relaxation processes, transport in free volume (for negative solitons), and reverse‐tunneling between macromolecular chains (positive solitons) seems to fit quite well with the experimental observations. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2011
Improving confidence in detection and characterization of protein N‐glycosylation sites and microheterogeneity
Authors: Mayampurath Anoop M. , Wu Yin , Segu Zaneer M. , Mechref Yehia , Tang Haixu
Published: June 2011

Protein glycosylation is one of the most common post‐translational modifications, estimated to occur in over 50% of human proteins. Mass spectrometry (MS)‐based approaches involving different fragmentation mechanisms have been frequently used to detect and characterize protein N‐linked glycosylations. In addition to the popular Collision‐Induced Dissociation (CID), high‐energy C‐trap dissociation (HCD) fragmentation, which is a feature of a linear ion trap orbitrap hybrid mass spectrometer (LTQ Orbitrap), has been recently used for the fragmentation of tryptic N‐linked glycopeptides in glycoprotein analysis. The oxonium ions observed with high mass accuracy in the HCD spectrum of glycopeptides can be combined with characteristic fragmentation patterns in the CID spectrum resulting from consecutive glycosidic bond cleavages, to improve the detection and characterization of N‐linked glycopeptides. As a means of automating this process, we describe here GlypID 2.0, a software tool that implements several algorithmic approaches to utilize MS information including accurate precursor mass and spectral patterns from both HCD and CID spectra, thus allowing for an unequivocal and accurate characterization of N‐linked glycosylation sites of proteins. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Warming Blanket Head Drapes and Trapped Anesthetic Gases: Understanding the Fire Risk
Authors: Chapp Katie , Lange Linda
Published: June 2011

Polyethylene warming blanket head drapes are widely used to help surgical patients maintain normothermia. The OR quality management team at Froedtert Hospital, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, designed a quality improvement project using an intubation mannequin to determine whether a head drape used on an intubated patient would enhance the risk of ignition in the presence of an undetected anesthesia system gas leak. The team revealed several significant factors, including higher oxygen flow rate, the presence and application of the head drape, and not using the warming blanket blower, in the accumulation of oxidizers. Considerations for the surgical team when using the head drape include cutting a fenestration in the drape around the endotracheal tube or otherwise venting the drape, using the blanket blower, and having the anesthesia care provider frequently lift the head drape, thus minimizing the accumulation of trapped gases.
Transformational Leadership: Implications for Nursing Leaders in Facilities Seeking Magnet Designation
Authors: Schwartz Diane Brady , Spencer Tammy , Wilson Brigitte , Wood Kim
Published: June 2011

A perioperative nurse leader's ability to effect positive change and inspire others to higher levels of achievement is related to his or her leadership style in the practice setting and the leadership style that is present across the organization. The American Nurses Credentialing Center's Magnet™ designation and redesignation process requires the demonstration of transformational leadership as one of the components of excellence. Transformational leadership can increase nurses' job satisfaction and commitment to the organization and organizational culture. Engaging staff members in the transition to transformational leadership and developing a common mission, vision, and goals are keys to success in the surgical setting. Bass's four interrelated leadership components—idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individual consideration—and associated behaviors were used by surgical services leaders in an East Coast, two‐hospital system to successfully achieve redesignation as a Magnet facility.
Perioperative Pharmacology: Blood Coagulation Modifiers
Authors: Hicks Rodney W. , Wanzer Linda J. , Goeckner BradLee
Published: June 2011

Blood coagulation is the process that results in the formation of a blood clot to stop bleeding from a damaged blood vessel. Various pharmacologic agents can affect the coagulation process. The American College of Chest Physicians' evidence‐based practice guidelines for perioperative management of antithrombotic therapy provide guidance for anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy and bridge therapy. Perioperative nurses must understand the pharmacologic principles of the most common blood coagulation modifiers related to perioperative use. The perioperative nurse's responsibilities regarding administration of blood coagulation modifiers include reviewing the patient's pertinent laboratory results (eg, prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, international normalized ratio), recognizing the underlying conditions that require blood coagulation therapy, and documenting all pertinent information. Perioperative nurses also should participate in development of detailed storage and retrieval policies related to heparin.
Aufwachsen unter Frauen – Sozialisation von Jungen und gesundheitliche Aspekte
Authors: Börner Patrick , Hensel Thomas
Published: June 2011

Einleitung

Dieser Artikel eröffnet einen aus praktischer Erfahrung begründeten Blick auf die Gesundheit von Jungen und deren Sozialisation in weiblich geprägten Sozialisationsinstanzen. Anhand von Praxisbeschreibungen über sozialisationstheoretische Zugänge sowie Auszüge des gegenwärtigen wissenschaftlichen Diskurses zu Jungengesundheit werden Fragen bzw. Thesen abgeleitet, die in der Gesundheitsforschung zukünftig Jungengesundheit im Zusammenhang mit Jungensozialisation eingehender in den Blick nehmen.
Baseline Severity of Upper Limb Hemiparesis Influences the Outcome of Low‐Frequency rTMS Combined With Intensive Occupational Therapy in Patients Who Have Had a Stroke
Authors: Kakuda Wataru , Abo Masahiro , Kobayashi Kazushige , Takagishi Toshimitsu , Momosaki Ryo , Yokoi Aki , Fukuda Akiko , Ito Hiroshi , Tominaga Ayumi
Published: June 2011

Objective

To clarify whether the efficacy of combined low‐frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and intensive occupational therapy (OT) depends on baseline severity of upper limb hemiparesis after stroke.

Design

Retrospective comparative study.

Setting

Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at a university hospital.

Subjects

Fifty‐two patients who had sustained a stroke and had upper limb hemiparesis (age: 57 ± 13 years; time after onset: 50 ± 33 months). Based on the Brunnstrom stage for hand‐fingers at admission, patients were divided into a Stage 3 group (n = 13), a Stage 4 group (n = 20), and a Stage 5 group (n = 19).

Interventions

During a 15‐day hospitalization, each patient underwent 22 sessions of 20‐minute low‐frequency rTMS that was applied to the non‐lesional hemisphere and 120 minutes of intensive OT (one‐on‐one training and self‐training).

Main outcome measures

Motor function of the affected upper limb was evaluated with the Fugl‐Meyer Assessment and the Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT) on the days of admission and discharge. WMFT performance time data were log‐transformed.

Results

The Fugl‐Meyer Assessment score increased significantly in all patients (from 40.2 ± 12.2 to 43.4 ± 11.8 points, P < .001), but the score increase was significantly larger in the Stage 4 group than in the other two groups (2.1 ± 2.3 points in the Stage 3 group, 5.1 ± 2.9 points in the Stage 4 group, and 2.3 ± 1.8 points in the Stage 5 group, all P < .05). Similarly, the WMFT performance time decreased significantly in all patients (from 3.27 ± 0.90 to 2.96 ± 1.10, P < .001), but the difference in the extent of the decrease was significant between Stage 3 and Stage 4 groups and between Stage 3 and Stage 5 groups (0.04 ± 0.07 in the Stage 3 group, 0.41 ± 0.29 in the Stage 4 group, and 0.35 ± 0.31 in the Stage 5 group, all P < .01).

Conclusions

Our 15‐day protocol of low‐frequency rTMS and intensive OT is potentially promising in improving motor function of the affected upper limb. The extent of motor improvement by the intervention seemed to be influenced by the severity of upper limb hemiparesis at study entry.
A New Functional Outcome Assessment Tool for Military Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation: A Pilot Validation Study
Authors: Roberts Andrew J. , Franklyn‐Miller Andrew D. , Etherington John
Published: June 2011

Objective

To examine the construct and concurrent validity of a new occupational military outcome measure (the Functional Activity Assessment [FAA]).

Design

A validation study.

Setting

British Defence rehabilitation facilities.

Participants

A total of 141 service personnel who attended a musculoskeletal injury assessment clinic.

Methodology

The association among the Short Form 36 (SF‐36), Physical Workload Questionnaire, and the FAA was examined. Agreement and correlation with an actual medical category also was examined.

Main Outcome Measures

FAA, SF‐36 and Physical Workload Questionnaire scores.

Results

The FAA was significantly correlated with heavy physical workload and all SF‐36 subscale and component scores, in line with predictions. The regression model retained 3 variables that accounted for 49% of the variation in FAA, most of which was accounted for by the role‐physical subscale score of the SF‐36. The FAA was well correlated with actual medical category.

Conclusions

The FAA is a valid measure of physical health in relation to physical workload.